ShareThisLately, I've been making pillows, purses and T-shirts with my new favorite technique: reverse applique. I'm not a technical sewer, so if you're like me and you like quick projects that look great without the need for perfection, this will be a great project for you.
With this process, the focus applique fabric is layered behind the ground fabric, attached with a long running stitch, and then the applique shape is created by cutting away the top layer of ground fabric to reveal what's underneath. If you've never sewn a stitch in your life, I think you can have a lot of fun with this.
Gather:
Canvas tote bag, pillow cover or T-shirt
Applique fabric (A variety of prints works well)
Pencil
Scissors
Straight pins
Embroidery floss
Sewing needle
Create:
Draw out your personalized design directly onto your ground fabric in pencil. This will be the tote bag, shirt, etc. It may be easiest to start with a simple shape like a single flower.
Pin a large piece of the applique fabric of your choice to the reverse side of your ground-fabric item, being sure to pin in enough places to keep it secure while you're sewing. Make sure the right side of the applique fabric is to the wrong side of the ground fabric.
Thread a needle with a coordinating thread color. You'll be using a long running stitch (over, under) 1/4 inch outside of your pencil lines, all around your design.
Grab sharp scissors when you're done sewing. Cut out the ground fabric along your pencil lines, making sure you don't cut the applique fabric underneath.
Turn your tote bag, pillow or shirt inside out so that you can trim the excess applique fabric. Cut 1/2 inch away from your running stitches to eliminate bulk from your newly embellished item. Turn right side out and enjoy your new creation.
Store-bought canvas tote bags are great for this. Don't worry about uneven stitches because they show off the unique qualities of your handmade item. If you like, sew on extra embellishments like buttons or vintage jewelry to enhance the design.
(Dena Fishbein is the designer and artist behind many home, gift and paper products found at your favorite stores. To ask her how to embellish anything, visit her blog at denadesigns.com.)
(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com)
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