Tuesday, December 1, 2009

quick gift idea #1

I'd really like to share a few quick gift ideas over the next few weeks, OK that's the aim, the reality could be a bit different, this might be the only one.

Cards can be expensive to buy so most people welcome a gift of pretty cards. This idea is super simple, cut a picture out, could be from a thrifted book, old calendar, magazine page etc and stitch it on to the card using a sewing machine. The stitching really makes the difference, it transforms the card into something a little bit special, rather than just a page from a magazine stuck on.

A few tips;
Put a little bit of double sided sellotape on the back of the picture to stop it moving when you stitch.
A jeans or a denim needle for your machine is a must, easy and inexpensive to buy at your local fabric store.
Adjust the tension on your machine as stitching on card is quite different to stitching fabric, do some testing first.

Tie a few cards together with a pretty ribbon and matching envelopes and you have yourself a quick handmade present that is also a form of recycling! Great for school teachers and other hard to buy for people.

Happy stitching

3 comments :

  1. Fantastic idea and thanks for the tip on how to sew onto card. I've often wanted to try it but haven't got around to it.

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  2. What a great idea, thank you for sharing all of this.

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  3. Fantastic, I was considering attempting some handmade stationery as a present, and this idea beats what I had in mind. Thanks for sharing.

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