Friday 22 November 2013

New Site Address

If you follow Practical Scrappers, 
please update your bookmarks to include their new web address.
Thanks

Tuesday 19 November 2013

Christmas Fabric Wall Hanging

I created a simple wall hanging using fabric scraps and burlap to create this basic nativity scene. I am not an experienced seamstress and since wanted the fewest pieces to work with, I sketched people with gentle curves and simple shapes. I used the button hole setting on my sewing machine to get a very tight outline stitch. Finally, I made loops at the top of the panel for the wooden dowel and I bought some jute cord to hang it.
TIP: Know the layers in your design and what pieces will overlap so that when you sew, you work from the bottom up and attach those pieces first.

 

Thursday 7 November 2013

Autumn Wreath

Hello Crafters,
I am sharing a quick and simple Autumn wreath made with strips of fabric and best of all,
 NO SEWING IS INVOLVED!

Supplies: fabric strips, scissors or pinking sheers, wire hanger
Directions:
1. Cut strips of fabric. Strip size can vary but are about 1.5 x 8 in.

2. Bend the wire hanger to form a circle and tie each fabric strip onto the hanger.

3. Keep sliding them close together in order to cover the hanger completely. The more strips you use and the tighter you compact them, the prettier the wreath will be.
4. Continue adding strips until the desired fullness is achieved. When complete, trim the ends of the fabrics. I cut each strip to have a pointed end to resemble leaves but you may prefer a diagonal cut or a V cut.

5. Finally, decorate with a bow or other embellishment.

Any lightweight fabric would work well. (satin, organza, chiffon, cotton, lame, lace, velour, netting, or tulle) Fabrics should be cut on the bias if possible to minimize fraying and prevent unraveling edges. I suggest using a variety of colors & textures of fabric to give the wreath more dimension. This is a good opportunity to use up small fabric scraps or even recycle that blouse that got a stain on it. I also used some wide ribbon strips among the fabric strips. Hopefully, you can see the unlimited potential to make a variety of seasonal wreaths by combining different fabrics. This is a great family activity. (If the grown ups do the cutting, the kids could do the tying on!)

Happy Crafting!