How TO
SEW FABRIC FLOWERS

These dahlias and pansies can be crafted from nearly any kind of cloth—the looser the fabric weave, the more the edges will fray, creating beautiful imperfections. Attach the blossoms to brooches or pins for an instant clothing, accessory, or hairstyle update.

how-to

When rolling the fabric into shape in step 3, making a few small, random stitches will help to keep the fabric from twisting, so you end up with prettier petals.

Pansy

Supplies

  • Embroidery scissors
  • Fabric
  • Fabric-marking pen
  • Sewing supplies
  • Pin (see Pin Picks, below)
  1. 1. See template (page 379). Cut a 2-by-36-inch strip of fabric (or for a smaller version, a 1½-by-30-inch strip) with embroidery scissors. Use pen to trace template on fabric, covering length. Cut out. (Use a damp cloth to wipe off any pen markings.)
  2. 2. Sew a running stitch several inches along bottom, ¼ inch from edge. Every 3 to 4 inches, pull thread to gather; secure with another running stitch closer to edge.
  3. 3. Spiral strip tightly to create flower shape, securing with random stitches. When it’s completely rolled, stitch through all layers to secure.
  4. 4. Cover stitched back with a small disk of fabric. Sew to desired pin.

Dahlia

Supplies

  • Linen and organza fabric, in similar shades
  • Detail scissors
  • Sewing supplies
  • Pin (see Pin Picks, below)
  1. 1. Cut one 2-by-36-inch strip from each type of fabric with detail scissors. (For a smaller version, cut 1½-by-30-inch strips.) Snip V shapes into each strip, about ½ inch from edge. Place one strip on top of other.
  2. 2. Sew a running stitch several inches along bottom, through both layers, ¼ inch from edge. Every 3 to 4 inches, pull thread to gather; secure with another running stitch closer to edge.
  3. 3. Spiral strip tightly to create flower shape, securing with random stitches. When it’s completely rolled, stitch through all layers to secure.
  4. 4. Cover stitched back with a small disk of fabric. Sew to desired pin.

Pin Picks

The type of pin you choose will depend on the desired target—sweater, scarf, hat, or French twist, for example.

Shawl Pin Simply slide the pin’s point through the flower’s back (no sewing required), then use to keep a wrapped scarf intact.

Brooch With its safety-pin enclosure, a brooch is the classic backing and can be fastened to any type of garment (or throw pillow).

Bobby Pin This updated pin’s perforated end is easy to sew through when attaching the flower.

Hat pin This old-fashioned pin can be used with its catch at the top (for a lapel) or without (for a hat).

Bun Pin Slide one end of pin through flower’s back, or sew to attach, before pinning hair.

Tip

To give your pinned flower a finished look, glue on a piece of fabric to the center, such as the round cutout on the pansy (middle left) and dahlia (upper right).