On the Edge
Add pretty detail to basic bedding with coordinating ribbons sewn along the edge.
All You Need
- 3 ribbons
- Sheets
- Scissors
Step by Step
1. Measure width of top sheet; cut three desired ribbons 1 inch wider than the sheet.
2. Sew the widest ribbon 3 inches from the top edge of the sheet, leaving 1/2 inch excess ribbon at each end.
3. Sew the thinnest ribbon onto the center of the widest ribbon and a third ribbon 1/2 inch from the top edge of sheet. Turn ribbon ends under 1/2 inch and sew to the underside of the sheet.
4. Repeat steps to create pillowcases, cutting ribbons to decorate both sides of the case.
Rows of Ribbon
Use leftover fabric and short lengths of velvet ribbon to create a one-of-a-kind pillow.
All You Need
- 17 x 24-inch fabric
- Ribbon
- Glass buttons
- Sewing kit
- Scissors
Step by Step
1. Cut one 17 x 24-inch fabric piece. Sew ribbon lengths vertically, side by side, onto fabric using straight stitches.
2. Cover all the fabric with ribbon, as we did, or leave fabric showing between the ribbons. Fold and press the piece in half; cut into two 8-1/2 x 24-inch pieces.
3. Turn one finished edge under 2 inches. Sew seven buttonholes through both layers of piece, spacing them 3 inches apart.
4. Turn under remaining finished edge 1 inch; sew corresponding glass buttons 1/2 inch from edge. Button pieces together.
5. Cut corresponding backing. Sew with right sides together, using 1/2-inch seam allowances; turn.
6. Unbutton top and insert pillow form. Button and hand-sew opening closed.
Button Boost
Dress up plain-Jane hand towels with buttons, beads, and colorful embroidery floss.
All You Need
- 3-1/2 x 16-1/2-inch piece of burlap or washable netting
- Towel
- Embroidery floss
- Wide-eye needle
- Buttons or beads
Step by Step
1. Cut a 3-1/2 x 16-1/2-inch piece of burlap or washable netting. Press under raw edges 1/4 inch.
2. Sew the strip to the woven edge of the towel. Thread embroidery floss through a wide-eye needle.
3. Sew as many buttons as you like onto the fabric strip, sewing through the towel. One or two stitches should be enough to secure each button.
4. Tie a knot on the button side of the towel and cut off floss 1/2 inch from the knot.
5. Repeat using different colors of embroidery floss and varying sizes and shapes of buttons and beads.
Copyright 2007, Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.