I just love the "Collectables Dies" from Marianne Design and they are perfect for applique, making quick work of cutting out all those tiny shapes which would be so fiddly by hand. The owl is ideal for this time of year, both as a present for a favourite teacher, or to congratulate a student on exam success. You could even make a matching card to really provide the "Wow Factor"!
Step 1
Apply the Bondaweb to the wrong side of the coloured fabric scraps.
Step 2
Using a Sizzix Machine, and the owl die, cut out all of the pieces.
Step 3
Iron the pieces into place onto the brown felt but don’t trim the felt too closely at this point.
Step 4
Machine around the applique pieces in black thread. Go around each piece at least twice to give the embroidery a "sketch-like" feel. Don't worry if your sewing is a bit wobbly as this adds to the overall effect of raw edge applique!
Step 5
Trim the felt between the owl's ears and insert a piece of folded ribbon.
Step 6
Cut a small piece of hardwearing fabric such as denim and back with Bondaweb.
Step 7
Using your iron, fuse the denim and the owl piece together, securing the ribbon at the same time.
Step 8
Change the top thread on your sewing machine for one that matches the felt and then stitch the denim and felt together by sewing just outside the outline of the owl. The stiches will sink into the felt and be almost invisible and the black bobbin thread will blend into the denim nicely!
Step 9
Trim around your owl carefully using a pair of sharp scissors.
Step 10
Attach a split ring and some little beads or charms and that's it = A gorgeous and unique keyring or bag charm.
