Sew Simply: basic stitches and a fabric flower!

Yay!  Here we are to our first project!  Yes, it is very simple, and it is all hand-sewn.  But it's also a very cute fabric flower.  And it's so quick to whip up that you can make one for each of your friends.

First, a look at the slipstitch... this is the stitch commonly used to whip gaps in lining closed, or wherever you want to patch something without your stitches showing.  We've used very bright un-matching thread, so you'll be able to see more clearly.

   

The running stitch... (good for gathering or embellishment-- also the stitch used for quilting)

 

See how nicely it gathers up?  That's why the running stitch is what we'll use to make our fabric flower.

the fun fabric flower...

you will need::

--1 strip of fabric, approximately 4" to 5" wide

--matching thread

--one big button

--medium sized safety pin

1. Press your strip of fabric in half, wrong sides together, to form one long, thin strip.  Using your scissors, round off the edges of your fabric strip.

   

2. Start your running stitch at one end of your strip (along the raw edge-- not the pressed edge), and continue all the way down until you reach the other end.  Pull up tightly, and knot off your thread.

     

3. Wrap your gathered strip around itself to form your "petals".  Stitch securely together in the center, going all the way through the back of the flower.

     

4. Stitch your button center on tightly.  Knot securely.  Using a safety pin, attach the flower to the outside of your jacket or bag...

  

So very simple, with lots of room for creative embellishments!  We've beaded our flowers, or added yo-yo centers.  You can even stack flowers of different fabrics and sizes on top of one another, attach them through the center with a button, and have a really cute double-petaled bloom!   

Comments

[Shana]

Thanks! Wonderful tutorial!

[Elisa]

I'm curious as to about how long a strip you like to use.
Thanks

[the long ladies]

Hi Elisa~ Good question! The length of our fabric strip is usually just the width of the fabric (44" to 45"), but you could easily use a shorter or longer length.

We would love to see pictures of your flowers!
love, the Long ladies

[Annie]

What a neat, lovely idea! The flower turned out beautiful. I will have to make lots of these! Thank you so much for the instructions!
Shalom,
~Annie~