Needlepoint Projects
Needlepoint has been documented as far back as 1500 B.C.E. in the tomb of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. This pastime has been an activity for noble ladies from as early as the Middle Ages. Today, needlepoint projects can be a relaxing and lucrative way to spend your extra time.
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Seat Cushions
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Needlepoint can be used to create personalized and hearty seat cushions for your dining room chairs. It is best to use wool for this project, as it is more durable than traditional embroidery threads. However, there are several varieties of woolen thread than the traditional, often plain threads. Tapestry, Persian and Crewel wool are all alternatives to the plain wools. Once the thread is chosen, use a stitch that barely distorts the fabric, has a short length, has little texture and covers the entirety of the canvas. Sew the decorated canvas onto another piece of fabric and stuff it with cotton to make a comfortable cushion.
Table Runners
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Use needlepoint designs to decorate inexpensive and plain table runners for holidays or to match your decor. Make sure that the runner is made of a sturdy fabric, such as linen or canvas. This will ensure that the stitches will not bunch the fabric. Use a tight stitch to sew the background of the design onto the fabric. Use complementary shades of thread for the design on the table runner. For additional decoration, use metallic threads to line the designs to catch the light. Once finished, either place the runner on your table or sell your project at a swap meet or craft show for extra cash.
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Christmas Ornament
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Christmas ornaments can become expensive if they are purchased from the store. Instead, create your own personalized ornaments for a fraction of the cost of the store bought decorations. Cut a piece of plastic canvas, and cut it into a festive shape. Use yarn to completely color the shape yellow. Attach a picture of your child or family into the center of the canvas with glue. Sew sequins and seed beads into festive shapes over the yarn. Thread a ribbon through a square in the plastic canvas, and tie the ends together to form a loop to hang your ornament on the tree.
Pillow
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Create a colorful, personalized pillow by embroidering designs onto canvas. Purchase a needlepoint kit from your craft store that best reflects your personality or design theme. Cut a piece of fabric 1 inch larger than the size of the pillow you desire to allow for bunching in the fabric from the pattern. Complete the needlepoint in the design provided by the kit, and pin it to the backing. Flip the fabric inside out and sew three of the sides together. Flip the pillow right side out and stuff it with cotton balls, fabric scraps or cotton stuffing before sewing up the remaining edge.
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References
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