Stockings, stockings, everywhere!
By Kathy Wilson
I think far too few people attempt to handcraft Christmas stockings these days, and that’s a shame! Handmade stockings become a treasured collectible in many families, and are a joy for children to receive. It is much simpler than we think! Here are some step by steps, some photos, and some great links to get you started making a wonderful memory for your family, to be used and treasured through the years!
Step One…Determine a theme for the person you are making the stocking…perhaps they like fishing, or cowboys, or ballerinas? I had so many kids to make for, I chose a toyland theme for the whole family, then made each stocking fit its owner. For instance, my baby girl was the angel, and my mischievious boy was the gingerbread boy! You may have an elegant little girl who might be perfect for a Victorian sock, or a little boy who loves Dalmatians!
Step Two…Determine the material you want to use to make it! I chose felt, because it is cheap, sturdy, and simple to cut and add details. You also may want to consider fleece, or even corduroy or denim. By the way, it is even possible to make these out of paper…they make wonderful candy or gift giving containers!
Step Three… Cut out two basic stocking shapes from your fabric…remember, when it comes to kids, bigger is better! You can either sketch out your own stocking on a brown paper bag and then trace onto the fabric, or go to http://www.familycircle.com/crafts/archive_crafts_031223_splendidstockings.jsp and use one of their patterns.
Step Four… Slip a loop of ribbon between the two stocking shapes in the outside corner for a hanger…Sew the stocking shapes together, leaving an opening at the top. If you are using fleece or felt, you can now use decorative thread if you wish to blanket stitch all around the edges of the stocking. You can find blanket stitching instructions at http://www.quilttownusa.com/Town_Hall/dfexperts.htm
If you are using denim, flannel, or another fabric, fringe the edges for a homey look to your stockings.
Step Five…Now the fun part! Personalize your stocking with what ever fits your theme. Cut out felt shapes or figures and attach with fabric glue. Use dimensional fabric paint or iron on letters to add a name to the stocking. Have a great time using your imagination, or check out the links below for more ideas!
