Monday, October 10, 2011

Quick and Easy Fall Sewing Ideas


Our Tennessee autumn weather has been way too pretty lately to stay indoors. Except for a couple of cool mornings, it's been beautiful and I've been outside as much as possible. Camping and yard work at home have occupied most of my time. 

Although I haven't been in the sewing room, project ideas and color combinations pop up all around me. I've been making notes and sketching design ideas. Until I get back to my stitching, here are a few simple ideas from my collection. These won't take long and will brighten up your home during your fall, Halloween, and Thanksgiving celebrations.

Boo! To You Pumpkin Wall Art: Find a fun embroidery design like this cute pumpkin and put it on a light or medium colored background fabric. Add a back lining and loops, then finish the edges. I used a small stick as a hanger. If you don't have an embroidery machine, try applique or fabric painting a Halloween design.

Autumn Glory Reversible Table Runner: Choose a fall print fabric that coordinates with your dining room or kitchen, and a neutral solid like muslin, osnaburg or linen for the reverse side. Apply interfacing to the solid, then embroider or applique a fall design on each end. Bind them together with a two-inch border of the print material.  The small fruit design is repeated in the cornucopia embroidery and is perfect for the kitchen.

Napkins Aplenty: Hem 16 or 18-inch squares of the extra fabric from your table runner project. For solid colors, add a decorative or zig-zag stitch to add interest. You don't even have to sew if you don't want to for this one. Look at discount stores for colorful cloth napkins to match or contrast.

Rich Autumn Pillow Covers: Sewing simple pillow covers is fast and easy. You can change them quickly to bring beautiful fall colors indoors. Try dark red, ripe persimmon, warm brown or deep gold textured fabrics to create a warm, inviting living space.

Useful Remnant: Cloth napkins add a nice touch to your table and help the environment. Either catch them on sale or make your own. Buy some new dish cloths that match your kitchen and designate them as napkins for daily use. 
 

"Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn." ~ Elizabeth Lawrence

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