OK, here we go. I hope these instructions are clear enough for you to follow.
1. Center and stitch your design on a 6'w x 10"h piece of 32 count linen.
Your design should measure no more than 60w x 45h (about 4"w x 3"h).
You can use any count fabric you like, but bear in mind that it will effect the overall size of your ornament.
2. From the top of the finished stitching, count up 15 threads. Remove the next four (4) horizontal threads. This will form your ribbon weaving area.
3. Count another 15 threads above the weaving area and remove two (2) horizontal threads.
This will form the area for working the Hemstitch. Unfortunately I do not have a web site that can show you how to do the Hemstitch, I learned from a book a long time ago.
If you do not want to do the Hemstitch you can opt. to stitch a row of Tent Stitches (Half Cross Stitches) from edge to edge in place of removing the two threads, then work a blind hem for finishing
4. Count up 32 threads or 1" above your hem area and remove one (1) thread. Cut the fabric in the space made by pulling the thread to ensure you have a straight cut.
To make your hem, fold fabric a quarter of the way between your cut edge and the pulled threads or tent stitches, press. Fold again making sure that the first fold lines up with the top of the pulled threads or tent stitches.
Work hem stitch or a blind hem by catching your thread on the back of the tent stitches. You can also finish the hems using a sewing machine. Repeat for opposite end.
5. Fold fabric in half lengthwise with right sides together, stitch a 5/8" seam. Trim seam to 1/4" and finger press open. (Use a no fray product on the edges to control fraying)
Turn tube right side out.
6. Cut a 24" length of 1/4" ribbon in half, giving you two (2) 12" lengths. Thread one 12" length of ribbon onto a size 22 tapestry needle. Starting on the bottom of the ornament, in the center front of the ribbon row, weave the ribbon through the vertical threads going under two (2) then over two (2) all the way around the ornament. Repeat on other end.
Pull the ribbon ends to close the bottom of the ornament and tie in a knot. Stuff the ornament firmly with fiber-fill.
Make a 6" to 8" piece of twisted cording in colors to match stitching or use purchased cording or ribbon, to make a hanger. Secure the hanger inside of the ornament either by hand stitching it in place within the seam or as pictured by threading the hanger through a bead.
7. Pull the remaining ribbon ends to close the top of the ornament making sure that all stuffing is inside and that raw ends of the hanger cannot be seen. Tie in a knot, then tie bows and adjust and trim tails to suit.
There you go, a one of a kind keepsake to be treasured for years to come.
(an October sunrise from our front porch)
