Christmas 2015 - Felt Gingerbread Couple

 

I've been meaning to make some gingerbread men ornaments out of felt for years, but I have struggled to find felt in just the right colour. This colour is not quite what I pictured in my head, but I have accepted it for now!

Both Mr and Mrs Gingerbread are made from two layers of felt, blanket-stitched together by hand, with a smiling hand-embroidered face, and a tartan ribbon to hang from. Mrs Gingerbread features a small skirt made from red stretch lace (leftover from another project) with a lovely Christmassy bow. Mr Gingerbread has a matching bow which he wears as a bow tie, and two smart gold sequins as buttons. They add some lovely cheer to our Christmas tree!

Felt Needle Case

When I saw this tutorial over at Sum of their Stories I couldn't resist giving it a try as a little gift for a friend.

There is a pattern with the tutorial, but it didn't quite fit my need for precision accuracy, so I drew my own. I used a 7cm square, and added half ovals to each edge to make the basic shape, and created a rectangle for the needle holder centre like the one in the tutorial.

I also added the rectangle and the button attachments before blanket stitching it all together, so that all the excess stitching would be hidden.

I really like how clean the finish is, and I love the grey against the bright turquoise. I'm a bit obsessed with grey atm! I think the only thing I might change next time is the button loop - it is 6 strands of embroidery floss, and I am concerned that over time they will split and become tangled. Having pre twisted or plaited them may have been better... But it came together quickly and affordably, and I love the finished product.

Felt Heart Ornaments

I think the lovely thing about these little felt hearts, is that not only do they look lovely on the Christmas tree, but they can be hung up all year round too :)

They are quick, simple, and satisfying to make - who doesn't love working with felt?! And I really enjoy delicate stitches and beading.

These would work lovely without the ribbon too, just to pile up in bowls around the house, and to cradle in your palm when you need reassurance.

When adding the stuffing, other items such as lavender and cinnamon can also be added, creating lovely fragrant decorations.

The beading in the blanket stitch around the edge of this one was inspired by this brooch. I love the way the beads catch the lights on the Christmas tree.

Why not have a look at the other crafts in my Christmas category...

Baby Bunny Crochet & Blanket

I think I'm in love. I came across this crochet pattern over at The Giraffe's Hat, and I knew immediately it would be perfect for my niece's first Birthday!

The pattern is a brilliant free download over at Craftzine (a site I really recommend a look through!)

I crocheted this little bunny in a cream yarn, with felt paws, button eyes, and some vintage fabric ears!

I then made a little blanket to wrap the bunny in, with a simple blanket stitched edging.

I have seriously fallen in love with this bunny... But I've decided to hold off making myself one for now... Soon though!