I've been thinking about ways to use the super cool stitch patterns on my sewing machine, as I feel they're generally neglected (a k a guilt). Christmas! I typically hand embroider embellishments, however, by using the machine I was able to whip up this tri-color felt tree ornament while the kids were pretending to nap. By saving time by using the machine stitching feature, these can be made in multiples for present toppers, teacher's gifts, etc.
You will need:
3 colors of green wool felt
1 scrap of brown wool felt
Sewing machine with decorative stitch patterns
White all-purpose thread
Scrap of fusible interfacing, such as Pellon's 808 Craft-Fuse®
Trim for hanging loop
Fabric glue, such as Fabri-Tac
Disappearing ink marker, or dressmaker's chalk pencil
Download and print this simple pattern
*note: if you use Pellon's 805 Wonder-Under®, both sides are fusible so the steps to sew the individual tree pieces on and gluing later can be skipped
Step 1: Download, print and cut out the pdf. Trace the tree onto the fusible interfacing and cut the shape out slightly smaller than the printed pattern.
Step 2: Trace the tree trunk onto brown felt, making sure the top of the trunk extends at least 1/2" above the bottom branch of the tree (see above). Making sure the fusible side is face down, stitch the felt to the non-fusible side as shown.
Step 3: Cut the bottom two pieces of green felt to match the tiers of the tree, extending the top 1/2" or 3/4" above the branch line as shown to allow for overlap. Stitch the bottom and middle tree pieces down.
Step 4: Cut the top triangle to fit the top tier of the pattern and pin it down. Draw a light line to resemble a garland so you'll have a line to follow with the decorative stitching. If you don't have a machine that does stitching like this, you can decorate the tree however you'd like! A straight stitch or zig zag would be equally effective. Buttons, sequins or beads would be a cute addition!
Step 5: Stitch the decorative garland.
Step 6: Choose a color of felt for the back of the tree. Place the tree right side down on the background felt, trace and cut out the back of the tree. Flip the pieced front, align with the back (removing paper backing if necessary). As you press to fuse, be sure the long threads are tucked in between front and back and not sticking out.
Step 7: Cut 6" of decorative trim for the hanging loop. Peel the top front of the tree back and add a dab of glue on both sides of the trim. Press to adhere.
Step 8: While the loop is drying at the top of the tree, lift up all loose front corners of the tree and glue. Allow to dry.
It's too early for our tree to be up, but Santa is having fun holding his new ornament!
I'll have more ornaments in the coming weeks, so be sure to check back. The holidays will be here before we know it!
xo Karin
