I love old fashion napkins & handkerchiefs. Something about these delicate squares that I find appealing.
But to be fair, the use is not for me. Just the thought of putting that yuck back in my pocket for later makes me cringe.
For today’s project, I thought it would be fun to reclaim a few pretties and create something lovely for mom.
This project is for all levels.
Skill Level- 1 Button
Materials:
- napkin or handkerchief
- dried lavender
Tools:
- sewing machine
- needle/thread/iron
*A quick tip: fabric starch can be your friend when pressing old materials. Just be sure to use it sparingly.
Basic Instructions:
- Start with fresh, clean and pressed hankies. Since most hankies have some sort of special embroidery detail, let’s highlight it as a focal point.
- To create your pocket, fold your hankie in half; point to point; right sides together; embroidery at the top. Pin about 3″ from point.
- With your machine set to a standard straight stitch, sew together approximately 3″ from the point. Be sure to back stitch top and bottom.
- Trim away extra seam allowance. Press seam allowance in line with top embroidered point of hankie.
- Straight stitch along bottom edge; trim away extra seam allowance.
- Turn right side out; lightly press. Fill with lavender or scented material of your choice.
- Stitch straight across the top edge to encase off lavender and fold over flap.
- Hand stitch point of flap in place with needle and thread.
Here is a quick video how to from my feature the Cool2Craft Mother’s Day episode.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnnGx2HgXh4&w=480&h=360]
These are perfect to slip into a drawer, closet or even a suitcase.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Comments & Reviews
What a great idea for those old linens you find everywhere, but just aren’t sure what to do with!
How lovely!
What a great idea …. thanks for sharing.
I think you’re cool too!!! Love the tutorial Heather!!!
By watching your tutorial.. I noticed that it’s ok to sew past the fabric (when you are securing the beginning and the end)!
Thanks for sharing at The DIY Dreamer.. From Dream To Reality!! 🙂
Isn’t that cool! Thanks for posting this. I found you through Serenity You’s Link Party. Hope you’ll stop by my place sometime!
Absolutely beautiful! I’m sure they smell fantastic!! Megan
Lovely! I like the construction. I also have some pretty handkerchiefs that I’d planned on making into sachets, but wasn’t sure how to do it as the pattern is in the corner, so thanks for sharing!
Wendy, that is the exact reason why I created these. So many handkerchiefs have a special detail in the corner. And I wanted to highlight them! Be sure to drop me a few photos when you finish up the project.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful simple yet delightful project on BeColorful this week. Happy Monday.
Pam
So very pretty, featured on my Facebook page. Always love your projects. Being a sewer at heart, and love how you provide the skill level. I’m going to make a few for my drawers, my Mom would of loved them, but she is gone now. Thanks for sharing your creative inspiration at Sunday’s Best.
Great project! I need to check more of your projects out!!
Absolutely beatiful!
Saludos
Oh my gosh.. This is so gorgeous.. Thank you for linking in on Mondays.. to the Weekly story.. You’ve inspired me to try this for sure!! 🙂
Oh my goodness this is awesome! Love love love your creativity!
We would LOVE for you to stop over and link these up in our Crafty Saturday Showcase. It is just our 2nd week. Your blog is cute and we can’t wait to look around some more! I love the name of your blog!
Thank you!
Susie @Bowdabra
http://bowdabrablog.com/2012/05/12/saturday-showcase-craft-projects/
Lovely tutorial! Thanks for linking to Things I’ve Done Thursday!