The space between Summer and Fall feels like its very own season, and every season needs its own decorations. We don't make the rules. Thank goodness Maker Team member Erika of @sunkissed_crafts knows this and created a Back to School garland for the occasion! Playing with the bright colors of felt and felt balls will help you feel that school spirit - even if you're not ready to let go of lazy summer days.
Get ready for Back to School with this fun and colorful garland! Whether you're decorating for the first day of school, a classroom bulletin board, or a special learning corner, this project is a great way to welcome a new school year. Let's get started and create a cheerful decoration that celebrates a fresh start!
Skill Level: Beginner
Time: 2 1/2 hours
Additional Materials:
Garland Template (click to download)
Directions:
1. Download and print Garland Template. Cut out and trace shapes onto designated colors of felt. Trace multiples for desired number of garland elements. Cut out.
Pencil
2. Use three strands of DMC 444 and a running stitch to stitch two parallel lines down vertical length of Body.
Use three strands of embroidery floss for all stitching unless otherwise noted.
3. Use same floss and whip stitch top and bottom edges of Body to Base. Do not stitch along sides.
4. Whip stitch bottom edge of Eraser onto Base with DMC 3326. Leave space for silver Ferrule, which will be added last.
5. Place stuffing between two Bases with embellished side facing out.
6. Blanket stitch around perimeter of pencil, switching floss as felt colors change. Space between Body and Eraser does not need to match as it will be covered.
7. Tack stitch Lead onto Body with DMC 310.
8. Use DMC 928 and a running stitch to attach Ferrule to Base.
Repeat Steps 2-8 for additional pencils. This example uses three pencils for the finished garland.
Apple
9. Place stuffing between two Apples and blanket stitch around perimeter with DMC 817.
10. Use a running stitch and DMC 910 to add Leaf to Apple.
11. Tack stitch Stem next to Leaf with DMC 801.
Repeat Steps 9-11 for additional apples. This example uses two apples for the finished garland.
Assembly
12. With darner needle and Sashiko thread, string three felt balls (color of choice) onto garland.
13. Add pencil by stitching through back layer only with two large running stitches, about 1/3 of the way from top.
14. String on three more felt balls.
15. Add apple by stitching through back layer only with two large running stitches, about 1/4 of the way from top.
16. Repeat until all elements are added to garland, finishing with three felt balls.
Use more felt balls between the pencils and apples, and space them as wide or as close as you want! You can also make this garland with all pencils or apples or add beads and sequins! Be sure to tag @sunkissed_crafts on instagram if you try this pattern out. Enjoy!
Thanks to Erika for designing and writing this tutorial! You can see more of her work on Instagram @sunkissed_crafts. Stay tuned for more tutorials from the Benzie Design Maker Team!
