turtledove ornaments: DIY tutorial

when i saw these ornaments from crate and barrel, i was inspired to come up with my own version.

source: crateandbarrel.com

i didn't find anything exactly like i had in mind, so i winged it.

these are really simple to make. but don't have time to make them yourself, you can purchase a set of two on etsy.

smallwoods turtledove ornament

gather:

fabric -- about 8" by 8" for one bird
turtledove template (download the pdf file here)
pen
scissors
needle
polyfil
embroidery thread
craft felt

1. download, print, and cut out turtledove template. or just make up your own by sketching the shape you want on a piece of paper, and then cutting the fabric about 1/2" wider. the pattern i have is the correct size for cutting, so you don't need to add a 1/2" border to it.

2. with the right sides of the fabric together, sew around the edges of the bird -- be sure to leave a couple of inches for an opening. i start sewing at tip of the tail, going up and around the head, leaving the space at the bottom of the bird. i use a sewing machine for this part, but you could easily do it by hand.

3. carefully turn the bird right side out. notice i have not tied off or cut the thread yet.


4. stuff bird with polyfil, a little bit at a time in order to make sure all the space is filled. be sure not to stuff your thread inside.

5. tie and cut off one set of thread, running the other set of thread through a needle. i use a pin to keep the edges of the fabric tucked inside. now you're set to stitch up the rest of the bird.


6. add the wings. i use two strands of embroidery thread, weaving the needle only halfway through the thickness of the felt -- that way none of the stitching shows through. this step is much easier than it might appear.

7. run a six-strand cord of embroidery thread through the top for hanging your turtledove happily on a tree.

cheers!