Saturday, April 24, 2010

Recycle Pillow Cases for Crafts Projects, Make an Apron



Single pillowcases that are embroidered are great for crafts, and we have made several different crafts projects from old single pillow cases that are still good. Sometimes the mate is lost, or worn, or damaged, but the other pillow case is usable.

crafts


A single pillowcase will make an apron, but plan ahead so the design is pleasing. Here's how. Envision how the embroidered design will look on the apron, and devise a method that will make it go in the right direction, and in the middle of the front of the apron.

Here's what we did. Cut the pillow case in the middle of the back so that the apron has seams at the sides. Now, look at the embroidery and see if it needs to be turned right side up. If so, cut the pillowcase in half horizontally, and sew the plain half on the other side of the embroidery so the embroidery is near the bottom of the apron.

Cut two strips about 5 inches wide to make a waistband for the apron. If the pillowcase does not have about ten inches to spare, use a color of fabric that is found in the embroidery as an accent.

Stitch the sides with a narrow hem, and do the same for the bottom. Gather the top edge and sew the waistband and ties to the gathered area, right side to right side, starting at the middle. Turn the waistband over, press a narrow hem, and stitch. Then hem the ties and you have a new old apron.

Recycle old pillowcases into doll clothes, appliques for clothing, or laundry bags.  Have fun, but never pitch out any embroidery.  There are many uses for almost all of it, and particularly pillowcases and large flat pieces.
We share original patterns and ideas so you can have fun with needlework crafts and recycling. Have a great week!

Linda
cajunC

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