How to Make My Own Plastic Canvas Stars
Using your own hands to make decorations for your home or to give as gifts is always a rewarding experience. You can design handmade items to meet your own specifications in any shape or color you want. You can use stars made out of plastic canvas for many reasons, from Christmas to Fourth of July decorations. Or, you can hang them from the rearview mirror of your vehicle. Whether making big or little stars, it can be a fun and enjoyable project.
Instructions
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Make a replica of your plastic canvas sheet with a ruler, pencil and blank paper. This way, you can draw out your star and determine exactly how it needs to be cut out. By using a pencil, you can erase and redesign. This allows you to eliminate the trial and error in sizing and design, without cutting the plastic canvas until you are ready.
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Cut the stars out of your plastic canvas using your pattern as a guide. Depending on the size you've chosen, you may be able to cut multiple square out of one sheet. Also, once you have cut out one star, you can line it up with additional stars to make sure they are all the same size. If you are planning to make three-dimensional stars, be sure to cut out two identically-sized pieces per star.
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Sew the stars. This is where your creativity really comes in because there are several different ways that you can sew your stars. If you are planning three-dimensional stars and you are using stiff plastic canvas, you can soak it in warm water to bend it more easily. Using yarn and a large needle, you can sew with any color you choose, either up and down stitches or diagonal. Another option is the whipstitch, a diagonal stitch that covers two spaces instead of one. Design options include looping beads through the yarn so it catches on the top, visible side of the star or using different colors and/or consistencies of yarn.
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Sew two identically-sized pieces together with coordinating colored yarn, if you want three-dimensional stars that appear less flat. Make sure the right sides of the stars are facing out. Hold the two attached stars at the top and bottom points and lightly press down. Repeat this with the side points of the star until you reach the desired fullness.
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Tips & Warnings
During the holiday season, craft departments stock silver and gold glitter yarn; this yarn can add a little sparkle and shine to your stars.
Try cutting a few different size and shape patterns on paper before cutting the plastic canvas.
Be careful when pressing the points of the star, as too much pressure could cause the plastic canvas to break or crack.
References
- Photo Credit YARN BASKET image by brelsbil from Fotolia.com
