Monday, September 22, 2008

A no-sew throw that's easy to make

A no-sew throw that's easy to make and is perfect for personalization by finding a print that's fits what the recipient collects. Most of the throws can be made for under $20.

You've probably seen versions of these throws in the stores, but why not make your versions as quick and inexpensive presents. There are fleeces that can be used for just about every collector and this is a one-of-a-kind edition they won't already have!

The washable fleece comes in a multitude of colors and patterns, I guarantee you can find one to fit the recipient. There are licensed sports teams, licensed characters from Disney, Sesame Street or Warner Bros., Nascar, etc. But you don't need to use a licensed design, the generic designs can fit just as well.

For example there are fleeces for horse, dog, frog or cat lovers and collectors. Vintage western prints that remind me of old travel postcards. Trains, planes and automobiles for transportation enthusiasts. Teddy bears, patriotic for Americana collectors, galaxies for Star Trekkers, Coke, football themes for sports collectors, bowling prints, and numerous holiday prints.

Note: Many fabrics can be found online at stores.

The fleece throw shown here was made for an Oklahoma University student who usually doesn't miss a home game, and also has a small collection of school memorabilia. Although it's not a licensed fleece, the school colors are in the background diamond pattern.

I had several choices for the reversible side, but after putting a few combination's together decided the black fleece was the best bet. The white was very pretty as a reverse fabric and I would have used it--if the throw was for a girl. It was just a little too pretty for a guy.

Fleece Throw No Sew Pattern, Step One

Although the throws can be made in any size desired, since most fleeces are sold in approximately 54' widths, the ones I've done are 54" by 54.

Gather supplies

  • 1 1/2 yards of patterned fleece
  • 1 1/2 yards of coordinating (solid) fleece
  • sharp scissors
  • large straight pins

Step Two

Instructions
  • Spread out both pieces of fabric on a large flat surface.
  • With right sides facing OUT, smooth fabric out until there are no wrinkles or fabric bunching.
  • Pin the two pieces together a few inches from the edges, don't worry if one piece is slightly larger than the other.

Step Three

Trimming the edges
  • Trim off the unsightly selvage edges of the fabric
  • Also trim the fabric so that both pieces are the same size,
  • After trimming, smooth fabric out again so there is no bunching or wrinkles in the two pieces

Step Four

Cut a 4" square out of each corner of the fabric.

Step Five

The size of the fringe depends on your personal preference. The width and length can be adjusted to the look desired. Do a few test "ties" before cutting all the fabric.

This picture shows the reverse side of the throw, with 5" cuts.

  • Cut 4" to 5" slits in the fabric, approximately 3/4 to 1" wide
  • If a 5" cut provides the desired look, you will have to adjust the 4" corner cut to a 5" corner cut.

Step Five

Now the fun part -- tying the fringe.
  • Starting at one corner tie the first two pieces of fringe together. Remember you are tying the patterned fleece to the plain fleece.
  • Tie with a double knot -- the knot shouldn't be super tight.
  • Tie a few fringes in on each corner (which helps keep the fabric straight).
  • {li]Finish tying the rest of the fringe around the throw.

Step Six

The Finished Product!


this idea came from about.com


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