Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Valentine Pillows

Valentine How-to-


. Here is a simple version of how to transfer a valentine onto an embroidery picture. You may use this vintage valentine or any image that has simple lines to it. I scan my image and enlarge it to about 5" across, or how ever big you want your image to be.I usually go over the main lines with a thin marker, so when you trace the design it will show through. I don't transfer every line in the valentine. Just the outside and a few details.
I use a light box, and a fabric marker. You can also tape your fabric up to a sunny window. I use white cotton light weight fabric. Take your time drawing, and hold or tape the fabric and paper down.
I use a straight stitch, because I can get alot of detail. Don't be afraid to omit or add details. It's your own creation. I added color to the girl on the left. I use crayons and color lightly, and iron over it to set it. I do this before embroidering. I haven't finished these yet. I need to get some trim, and then I'll sew on a back square and have my little Valentines pillows.
I love doing this kind of project, because it's portable and once you've drawn on your design, you can just take your time. I added some matching fabric strips and trims. I'll show you my finished pillows later. Give it a try with the valentine above, or try one of your own. Have fun, and if you make one, I'd love to see it. I'm joining It's A Very Cherry World for Rednesday. Go over to see some more fun reds!
Leslie
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18 comments:

  1. My Vintage MendingJanuary 11, 2011 at 6:45 PM

    I wondered how you did that. Just darling. I think that is something that I need to try! Thank you so much for sharing. It is such a treat to read your posts.

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  2. JaneJanuary 11, 2011 at 7:20 PM

    Thanks for sharing the how-to! I haven't embroidered in such a long time. This would be a great project to try.
    Jane

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  3. NanEJanuary 11, 2011 at 7:27 PM

    How cute! Thank you so much for teaching us how to do this! Hugs, Nan

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  4. KitJanuary 11, 2011 at 7:28 PM

    What a great idea! And I just love your colorful blog. Thank you for visiting my blog and I hope to come back and visit again. Kit

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  5. AnonymousJanuary 11, 2011 at 8:17 PM

    I love this sweet idea and will be using it to be sure. I have posted a link to your tutorial on my blog so I don't forget. Thank you for sharing! ~Kelly

    unDeniably Domestic

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  6. RebeccaJanuary 12, 2011 at 3:33 AM

    These are super cute-wish I had the talent to make things like that!

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  7. GoodyGirlRedJanuary 12, 2011 at 4:54 AM

    I've wanted to try embroidering-- what a fun idea, thanks!

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  8. Linda RuthieJanuary 12, 2011 at 5:33 AM

    Thank you for sharing the how-to on this adorable idea. I love these!

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  9. LVJanuary 12, 2011 at 7:06 AM

    Great idea. These are so cute. I will have to lave the making to others. My eyes do not allow much close up work anymore.

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  10. ★Carol★January 12, 2011 at 10:04 AM

    I just knew as soon as I saw the little thumbnail picture that this was your post, because you are the Cute Pillow Queen! Thank you so much for sharing this tutorial, and this is the perfect opportunity for my to finally try my hand at a redwork project, like I've been wanting to do for years. What could be better than a valentine?!
    Happy REDnesday!
    Carol

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  11. Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble ChristmasJanuary 12, 2011 at 11:25 AM

    So cute and thanks for sharing the instructions!!

    Hugs,
    Debbie

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  12. Sally Annie MagundyJanuary 12, 2011 at 12:23 PM

    Hi Leslie!
    I'm feeling less overwhelmed today - thank heavens! Yesterday was dark and gloomy around here. ;) Sorry for being such a sad sack doofus head.
    Thank you so much for sharing how you made your pattern! I have a feeling you've started something in blogland. I loved reading that you used crayons on the one, how clever is that and so much fun. Can't wait to see your finished pillows.
    Happy Rednesday,
    Sally

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  13. Chris at Red Gate FarmJanuary 12, 2011 at 5:30 PM

    Coming over from Rednesday.... what a GREAT idea. If I had a little more time between now and February, I might give this a try... I have some fabulous vintage valentines I could use...

    ~Chris

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  14. Oregon Gifts of Comfort and JoyJanuary 12, 2011 at 6:59 PM

    Oh, Leslie, these are so darling! Thanks for showing me how to make them. I can't wait to sit down and give this a try, because it is right up my alley. Happy Redensday!

    Kathy

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  15. Pam KesslerJanuary 15, 2011 at 8:37 AM

    That is such a cute project! Thank for showing how you do that. I never would have figured that out on my own. BTW, I love your piano in the blog header!

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  16. CindyJanuary 18, 2011 at 7:58 AM

    Leslie I am back tracking on the blogs I missed..and to think I almost missed this one! I just saw the finished pillows..omgoodness..so darn cute.We did this along time ago in girl scouts..I had just forgotten how to do it..lol
    Do you wash your material first or not? And to heat set the crayolas..on the back of the material..or with a cloth on top of the crayon?
    I think I will get supplies for this today for a project with the grandaughters up here.We are suppose to get ice and snow on Thursday.

    Hugs Cindy from Rick-Rack and Gingham

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  17. marieJanuary 26, 2011 at 6:31 AM

    Oh such a clever idea! Thanks for sharing the how-tos!

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  18. LauraJanuary 5, 2013 at 5:41 PM

    Leslie...I love.... these Valentine pillows!!!!!!...I make alot of pillows, but I have yet to make Valentines pillows(next on my list)and I thought I commented you a long time ago here...but I don't see my comment...that must have been when my computer was acting up...I think you should share this post again for those who may have missed it.

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