Christmas Tree Napkin Tutorial

Here's what you'll needed for 4 napkins:
Four complimentary 20"x20" washed and cut cotton squares
Cutting, ironing and marking supplies
19" diameter template (I made mine just a quarter circle from scrap cardboard)
Serger - or sewing machine that can sew a finishing stitch

For each 20"x20" square...

Using 2 complimentary fabrics, sew down the length...

Grab your washable or disappearing marker....

If you don't have a serger, you can use your sewing machine to make a finishing stitch (like a zig-zag stitch), with the excess fabric cut off.  The idea is to give the edge a bit of a "rough" look that will become more ruffly as the napkin is washed.

 

and you have....

It's a bit of Christmas magic....

p.s.  We sell our pre-washed and cut 20"x20" fabric squares in the store.

Fabrics used are (l to r):  Tiny Trees, Mini Harlequin, Deck the Halls, That's All Stripe

Easy-Peasy Fabric Wall Art

DIY Fabric Wall Art for Beginners

It was time to take a short break from sewing cloth napkins and take care of the big empty spot on our store wall.  The fact that we are not artists ourselves does not hinder us because we are surrounded by beautiful fabric.  This project is so simple, anyone with a little motivation and an extra hour can do it.  

Step 1:  Pick out a fabric you absolutely love!  We chose a quilting weight 100% cotton: Alexander Henry's Larkspur Border Stripe in Multi.

 

Step 2: Obtain an unframed artist canvas, new or used.  Measure and cut your fabric so that you will have a 2-inch wrap around on the back side of the canvas.

Step 3:  Secure the fabric to the back of the canvas using a staple gun or flat tacks.  (I prefer a staple gun).  Make sure you fasten the fabric securely, but NOT so tight that you are stretching it. 

• Start with the middle of the top, followed by the middle of the bottom, then the middle of each side. 
• Finish securing the rest of the top, followed by the bottom, then each side - fastening every 6 inches or so and stopping about 4 inches away from each corner.
• Wrap those corners just like you would wrap a present - then tack 'em down with your staple or tack.

Step 4: If not already attached, affix a picture hanger or wire to the back of the canvas, pick your spot on the wall, hammer in a nail, and hang your art. 

Step 5: Take a big step back and enjoy the new view of your room.

Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.  And have fun looking at our beautiful fabrics for inspiration.