Recently I had some emails with questions concerning a tutorial I had done on making fabric flowers that look like roses.
I repeated the steps again this morning and took pictures (that sun is trying to shine!) and here we go:
Directions for Making Fold and Twist Fabric Roses
Step 1: Cut fabric in to 5" squares and then fold 3 pleats towards yourself.
Iron in place and pin on each side.
This feels kind of awkward at first but keep practicing the fold so that it is even. Each pleat is about 1/2" inch.
Step 2: Stitch with matching thread on each side using a 1/4" seam. I sew them one right after the other, and then cut them apart.
I bought the ergonomic rotary cutter at the last quilt show I went to and really like it.
Step 3: Fold 3 pleats in the other direction and iron and pin.
You must iron each step down to help hold it and make sharp pleats.
Step 4: Sew each side down being careful not to let fold get caught in seam.
Step 5: This is the fun part- while holding the fabric in one hand, use your finger to push up and make a bubble or balloon.
Fold under the squared off points on the bottom.
Place the puff on the palm of one hand and gently pinch the top center and twist in a smooth motion (either direction) until you can't twist any further and push down. Then quickly iron down with a hot iron to hold rose in shape.
I can't take a picture of twisting it and hold the camera at the same time but remember practice makes perfect and you may need to try it a few times before you get it!
When I use these roses I also make leaves and stitch them down in the folds to secure to whatever I am embellishing.
Good luck with these fabric flowers and have fun!
xo,
I'm off to buy a new thimble,
calamity kim
edited to add:
I started a Group over at Flickr for any flowers you make- just join the group and add pictures! here is the link