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On the first (or last) day of Christmas, why not give yourself the gift of crafting? For our final Christmas in July tutorial with Therm O Web, we are pleased to introduce a tutorial from new Maker Team member Heidi of @sisustitchery. Like Heidi's handstitched, handmade books, this embellished Partridge and Pear Folder is useful and beautiful! Perfect for holding sheet music or holiday cards, you'll be singing its praises the whole time you're stitching.
Inspired by the beloved holiday carol “The 12 Days of Christmas,” this partridge and pear tree themed felt folder is a fun and festive project. Whether you're new to hand sewing or a seasoned stitcher, the project is for you! It’s a creative twist on tradition that’s perfect for celebrating the season in style.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Additional Supplies:
Patridge and Pear Tree Template (click to download)
HeatnBond Fusible Fleece
HeatnBond Fabric Fuse PeelnStick Adhesive Sheet
Freezer Paper - optional
Directions:
1. Download Partridge and Pear Tree Template. Print pattern onto cardstock and trace pattern pieces onto felt. Cut out. Alternatively, use the freezer paper method to transfer pattern to felt.
2. Take Pocket and use DMC 522 to sew a blanket stitch along top angled edge.
3. Layout all cut pieces on a full sheet of Viridian felt, which will serve as the Base. This will allow you to see what the folder will look like once you have finished.
Next, some of the larger pieces will be embroidered prior to gluing onto the base. Stitches shown on the example will be listed. However, feel free to explore different embroidery stitches and techniques. Create embroidered accents that look aesthetically pleasing to you!
4. Take Main Body and use DMC 310 and a stem stitch to create an eye for the partridge.
5. Use DMC 524, 3727, and Blanc to stitch accents on Tail Feathers. Lazy daisy and straight stitches create a floral effect.
6. Use DMC 522 to stitch lazy daisy and straight stitches on smaller Wing.
7. Create textured belly on Main Body using DMC 3727 and a seed stitch.
8. Use tacky glue and Peel & Stick Fabric Fuse to glue pieces to appropriate layers. Partridge and assortment of Music Notes are glued to Pocket. Three Pears and assortment of Music Notes are glued to Veridian Base (above Pocket placement.) Let dry. Fabric Fuse works well for attaching larger pieces and tacky glue works well for attaching smaller pieces.
Make sure you are satisfied and make adjustments, if necessary.
9. Once dry, lift Pocket off of Base. Continue adding decorative stitches to partridge such as lazy daisy, seed stitch, running stitch, blanket stitch, stem stitch and French knots. There is no wrong way to stitch, so have fun and be creative!
10. Use coordinating colors of embroidery floss and a backstitch to stitch Music Notes on Base and Pocket, only stitching through the layer that the item is glued to.
11. Use various stitches and embroidery floss colors to embellish Pears on Base. Set Base and Pocket to the side.
12. Cut a 9 x 12" rectangle of fusible fleece. Adhere fusible fleece to the non-stitched piece of Veridian felt, following directions on the packaging. Use pressing paper to ensure felt does not scorch and fusible fleece adheres nicely.
13. Assemble folder elements. Place felt attached to fusible fleece with felt side down. Place embellished felt Base on top. Place Pocket on top aligned with bottom edge of Base. Clip all layers together.
14. Use DMC 522 and 924 and a blanket stitch to create a lovely exposed edge around the folder. Switch floss colors to match front of folder.
Admire your completed work! Your partridge in a pear tree folder is ready for use!
Thanks to Heidi for designing and writing this tutorial! You can see more of her work on Instagram @sisustitchery and on her website. And thank you for celebrating Christmas in July with us. Merry Making!
