A Solid Fall
Where did summer go? The last few months for our family have been pretty packed. And shows no signs of slowing down, now that we are getting into the holiday seasons. And with time at such a
premium, I’m always looking for super quick sewing and craft projects to make. Especially easy ones, so that the littles can try their hand at creating too.
Lately we have been knee deep in fleece, signs that we are solidly into the Fall season. Making tied blanket after blanket. Next up is fleece tied pillows, and some Halloween themed pillowcases. The kiddos love to sew pillowcases, and since all seams are concealed, any not-so-perfect stitching gets hidden. And frankly, kids don’t care about perfection–they just love to make things! Showing off their proud creations to their parents is top notch fun.
Besides pillowcases, there are several straight line sewing projects that are simple for them (and me) to whip up. This Reversible Runner is a great project for the upcoming holidays. Just choose some prints or solids, grab some trim, and get sewing. A runner can be used just about anywhere, and takes little fabric. So it’s fast and low cost too.
The Reversible Runner is the first in our One Hour Projects series. This time of year we are looking for sewing projects that result in (pretty much) instant gratification. We think this project fits those specs. The project PDF follows, and can be printed or better yet, save the ink and view the directions on your tablet.
Have a Fantastic Fun Filled Fall!
Cindy Cummins
One Hour Projects Series Reversible Runner
I love any project that takes less than one yard of fabric, and only one hour of time to sew. Creating something that satisfies my sewing fix, even when I’m short on time. And even better if it’s a home-dec project, that won’t break the budget. A runner is a nice touch on any table or island. I use them in many places, more so around the holidays, as a base for the cute decorations I have collected over time. In this project pic, our cherished “Wendy Witch” (made by a good friend) sits among a candy filled candle vase, and our Peabody Halloween ducks!
Materials
Choose 2 print cotton fabrics, one for each side of runner (these can be different holiday themed, colors, or patterns. Each side of the runner stands on its own!)
1 yard fabric print #1, 45” wide
1 yard fabric print #2, 45” wide
2 ½ yards trim for each side of runner (optional ribbon or rick rack)
Sewing thread to match
Clear tape or glue stick
Marking pencil or pen
Sewing clips or straight pins
Cut
From each print fabric, cut a 45” x 15” rectangle piece. (you will have enough fabric to make 2 complete runners!) Check to make sure all raw edges meet up. If not, trim so that both pieces are the same size.
Mark
(Optional trim). Along each long side of each fabric piece, on the right side, mark a line for trim placement, 2” in from the raw edge. Repeat for both pieces.
Step 2.
Sew: Step 1.
Attach trim following marking. To prevent trim from shifting, use clear tape or glue stick to hold trim in place.
Stitch trim in place, sewing close to edges, using a straight or zig-zag stitch. Repeat as desired on both runner pieces.
Step 4.
Step 3.
Place both embellished runner pieces right sides together, matching all raw edges. Use sewing clips or straight pins to hold in place. Stitch along long sides, ½” from raw edge.
(Option: Sew around all raw edges, ½” from raw edge. Leave a 3” opening for turning along one long side. Trim the bulk from corners, then turn the piece right side out. Press.)
Turn the fabric piece right side out, press, lining up finished edges.
Step 6.
Step 5.
Topstitch ¼” from each long edge (or around all edges if Option above).
To create a mitered point, fold the runner piece in half lengthwise, match raw edges at ends. Sew ½” seam at each end, turn right side out. Position point so it’s even, and press in place. Finished!
Step 7.
To reverse, flip the point end to the opposite side and press in place. 2 runners in one!
