Instructions for Quilted Postcards

The back of a postcard.

Postcards are simple ways to say hello to someone you care about or inform people of a change in your life such as a new address, baby's birth or an upcoming party. Fabric-quilted postcards put a twist on the usual paper postcards. Make your own special designs to show off your style that fit the reason for the postcard. Quilted postcards are simple to make and a fun process.

Things You'll Need

• Thin cardboard
• Photo
• Pencil
• Razor blade
• Utility knife
• Fabric scraps
• Stiff interfacing
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

1. Take a thin piece of cardboard and lay it on a flat surface. Trace a 4-inch x 6-inch photograph to create your postcard template.

2. Cut the 4-inch x 6-inch postcard out with a utility knife or razor blade. The center cut-out section will be the actual postcard. Use the piece of cardboard the postcard was cut out of as a frame.

3. Arrange scraps of fabric on the flat surface and place the frame over it to see how the completed postcard will actually look. Consider adding additional decorative elements such as rhinestones, glitter and patches. Play with the elements until you come up with the final design. To cover the raw edges of the fabric, simply fold the edges under to create smooth lines.

4. Place the fabric scraps onto a piece of adhesive stiff interfacing. Press down firmly. The material should be arranged just as it was in your final design. Cut the interfacing to the same size as the cardboard (4-inches x 6-inches).

5. Place the interfacing against the cardboard and align the two pieces so they match exactly. Thread your sewing machine with a color that complements your postcard design. Sew all the edge as closely as possible. Cut away any strings or hanging remnants.

6. Write your message and addresses (return address and recipient's address) on the back of the postcard.

References

• Calidore: Postcard Tutorial