Make Fabric Ornaments

Are you going for that country Christmas look? In addition to small wooden tree ornaments and popcorn garlands on the tree, consider including these simple sewn ornaments. Here's how they are made.

Steps

 * 1) Gather your supplies in a comfortable, well-lit work area.
 * 2) Trace the desired shape(s) onto the back side of your material.
 * 3) Add 1/4 inch seam allowance.
 * 4) [[Image:F3_42.JPG|thumb|Apple - Above]]Cut out two or three of each of the shape(s) including seam allowance.
 * 5) *[[Image:F8_973.JPG|thumb|Stem and leaf.]][[Image:F10_882.JPG|thumb|Sew Stem and Leaf]]If doing the apple, cut shapes for the stem and leaf and then sew them as shown.
 * 6) [[Image:F7_173.jpg|thumb|Apple - above]]Position your two pieces with wrong sides facing.
 * 7) Pin them if you feel it is necessary.
 * 8) Place the knotted ends of a 6-8 inch strand of embroidery floss (or other thin corning) at the top end of your ornament with the loop to the outside of the ornament and the knots to the inside, so that they will be sewn in place as you sew the two layers together.
 * 9) [[Image:F11_385.JPG|thumb|Sew the perimeter.]]Sew around the perimeter, leaving at least an inch and a half gap for stuffing.
 * 10) Stuff lightly, just enough to puff the item.
 * 11) Stitch the opening closed.
 * 12) Leave the raw edges of the material to fray naturally, giving the ornament a sort of hand-made charm.

Alternate Method
Example of this type of ornament, sewn together to form a garland of hearts
 * 1) [[Image:Christmas tree ornament 5492.jpg|thumb|Sewn and then turned right side out.]]Sew as above, but with right sides facing and the loop of the hanger to the inside of the ornament.
 * 2) Turn right side out.
 * 3) Stuff lightly.
 * 4) Slip stitch the opening closed.

Tips

 * Felt is an easy material to use because it does not fray.
 * If using a loosely woven material, starch it first to give additional stiffness and to help keep the fibers from raveling at inopportune times during assembly.

Warnings

 * Scissors and needles are sharp. Handle with care.

Things You'll Need

 * 1/4 yard or so of "Christmas-y" fabric
 * Scraps of felt in different colors
 * Scissors
 * Sewing machine (Optional; ornaments may be sewn by hand)
 * Thin cording (Embroidery Floss works well)
 * Miscellaneous buttons and sequins for embellishment
 * Hot Glue (and glue gun) to attach the above

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Make Ornamental Pine Cones for Christmas
 * How to Make a Button Ornament
 * How to Make Christmas Ornaments With Dough
 * How to Make Cinnamon Cookie Ornaments
 * How to String Popcorn on a Christmas Tree