Patriotic Banner

For one of my ladies craft nights, we decided to make a patriotic banner.  My first attempt wasn't so brilliant because I didn't measure my mantle before I went to sew.  So I just guessed.  The top picture shows my original.  Then I unpicked all the triangles and put them closer together.  I am not sure if I like it any better, but I am not unpicking it again. 

Supplies:  Fabric, you can get about 16 (front and back) flags out of 1 yard of fabric.
                Bias Tape
                Thread
                Scissors
                Rotary Cutter and Mat
                Ruler

Instructions:  These are general instructions.
1.  We cut out triangles that were 8 inches across and 10 inches in length.  We used a rotary mat and cutter to make this process quick and easy.  You can also make a paper template to help with this as well.  Cut out as many as you would like.  Odd numbers look best to the eye.

2.  Sew the triangles in a "V" shape by leaving the top open and sewing the long sides of the triangles.  Sew about a 1/4".  Wrong sides should be together.

3.  Place the non-sewn edge of the triangles in the bias tape and evenly spaced and pin.  Decide how closely together you would like your triangles.  Sew along the edge of the bias tape catching both sides of the bias tape and the triangle.

Enjoy!

Sock Monkeys

I found a great website, http://www.craftpassion.com/2012/04/how-to-sew-sock-monkey.html/2 , that had instructions on making these adorable sock monkeys.  My kids loved them and each had to have one of their own.  They are very fun and easy to make.

A few suggestions that I would make are:

1.  Use a stretch stitch when using your sewing machine.  You will have a lot less chance of a young child breaking the stitch if it is a stretch stitch.

2.  Use an upholstery (curved) needle when sewing on the mouth.  I believe it will be easier.  I am going to try it out next week and see.

3.  It takes about 4 oz of fiberfill for one adult monkey.

4.  I used adult knee length socks and I thought they turned out way cute.

5.  Read the instructions.  I started without reading thoroughly and it cost me some time.

I hope you enjoy these as much as I did.