Thursday, April 2, 2009

THOUGHTS: With the next snow storm on the way, I just have one request. Would someone please remind Mother Nature that it is Spring! Enough already!
No digging in the dirt today...

THINGS: Spring Banner

Maybe if I keep this banner up long enough it will surely happen.
You can make a banner for any occasion. Seasons of the year, birthdays, childrens rooms, etc.

Make a triangle template, out of paper or template plastic.

One triangle will consist of 3 layers, front, middle and back. The front of course being the fabric you want to show, the middle, a light weight interface ,or you can use a piece of scrap fabric. The middle piece is just to give it some stiffness, stability. The back can be like the front , or a contrasting fabric, or just even plain muslin.
Decide how many triangles you will approximately need, make a few more to be safe. Stack your 3 layers and cut them out using the template. I used my rotary cutter and a ruler. Easier, faster and it gives it a nice straight line.

With three layers together, sew just inside the triangle, a generous 1/4 inch. Then I used my pinking shears around the edge, or you can just leave it.

I freehanded and cut out letters to fit the triangle. You can make your letters out of fabric, felt, wool felt or wool. I made mine out of wool felt. Zig-zag on. (if you use fabric, first use a fusible webbing, like wonder under)

For the banner sash, I used large rickrack, but you can use ribbon too. Allow at least 10 to 12 inches extra on the ends . Space your triangles along the sash, pin and just sew them all on at once. You did it! How cute is that!

This banner is in the bedroom for the grandkids. It is made out of leftover scraps from the quilt and a few from my stash.

7 comments:

  1. I love these garland/banners--I first saw them at your daughter-in-law's house and hers are SO CUTE. Thanks for telling us how to make them. I'm kind of an idiot when it comes to sewing and making things from fabric, so I need all the help I can get! :)

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  2. Dear Joy-
    I have had the pleasure of peaking in at your blog (through Jodi's blog). I never properly learned how to sew, and I suppose I am more of a scrapbooking/paper crafter, but I absolutely adore all of your talents!

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  3. Sooo cute! I am a new fan. I love your blog and your style. Janis

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  4. Very cute. I'm going to make one for my new craft room valance. Mimi

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  5. I was so tickled to see the new flowers on your porch. They always make me happy!-Gina

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  6. I'm so excited that you are blogging! I just spent the last hour reading through all of your thoughts and things... and love them all. Hooray for this blog!

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  7. I think I will have to make a Happy Birthday banner for our house.....I love it! Thanks for the instructions!

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