How to Sew a Leaf Collection Appliquéd Banner
Fall is the perfect time to start a new sewing or craft project. The weather is cooling off and we are spending more time indoors. We have a renewed desired to make our homes feel cozy. This Leaf Collection Appliquéd Banner is a great candidate for a satisfying fall sewing project. It doesn't take long to make, it uses up small bits of pretty fabrics, and will be a joy to look at all autumn long.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
This is what you'll need to make your own Leaf Collection Appliquéd Banner
Felt Background Fabric: 28 inches by 11 inches
I use a wool blend felt, but any type of felt should work.
When folded, your finished banner will measure 11 inches wide by 14 inches tall.
Leaf Appliqué Fabric(s): 12 inches by 12 inches
Or use multiple smaller pieces in various colors and prints
Fusible Adhesive: 12 inches by 12 inches
I use Heat N Bond Lite
Black thread
Dowel Rod: 12 inches long, 1/4” diameter
String for hanging
In addition to the above sewing supplies, you'll need these tools:
Sewing machine
Embroidery/Darning/Free-motion quilting presser foot
This presser foot can go by different names. Check with your sewing machine manufacturer or manual to find the right one for your particular machine.
Iron
Scissors
Step 2: Prepare your Fabric
Before cutting out your pattern pieces, apply the fusible adhesive to the back of the fabric for the leaf appliqués.
Step 3: Cut your Pattern Pieces
Once your fabric pieces are prepared, cut them out.
If you're using the pdf pattern, cut out each paper pattern piece. Lay the paper pattern on your fabric and then trace around it. Cut around each one with scissors.
If you're using the svg cutting file, set the size of your grouped image to 10 inches by 13 inches. Then follow the manufacturers instructions for your cutting machine.
Step 4: Position the Appliqué
After you've cut everything out, head to your ironing board and fuse the appliqué pieces onto your felt banner piece. Be sure to fold the felt in half and position the fold at the top. Follow the pictures in the tutorial or create your own layout for the leaf appliqué shapes. Use your iron to press and fuse the appliqué shapes in place.
Optional: Use a fabric marking pencil or chalk to draw in the stitching lines on the appliqué pieces.
Step 5: Free Motion Stitch the Appliqué
You're ready for the best step—sewing the appliqué! Get your sewing machine set up with your black thread and your embroidery presser foot. Stitch around the perimeter of each leaf appliqué. I go around each twice to enhance the look of the free motion stitches. Then stitch the veins in the center of the leaves, if you choose.
While this tutorial shows how to appliqué using free motion sewing, it's also possible to make a really beautiful banner using other appliqué stitching techniques. You can choose to do simple raw edge appliqué instead or even hand stitch the appliqués.
Step 6: Sew the Banner
Once you've stitched the appliqué, you're ready to sew and finish your banner. Reset your sewing machine back to a regular straight stitch setting with the feed dogs back up and your standard presser foot installed.
Fold the banner so that it measures 11 inches wide and 14 inches tall and position the fold at the top. Pin or clip the front and back together, if you wish. Stitch around the banner, pivoting with the needle down at each corner. Use a 1/2 inch seam along at the top along the fold. Use a 1/8 inch or 1/4 inch seam allowance along the sides and bottom.
After sewing, insert the dowel into the casing at the top of the banner and tie on a string for hanging. Finally, enjoy hanging up your new, handmade Leaf Collection Banner!
Enjoy your banner!
I hope you enjoyed stitching your Leaf Collection Banner along with me.
Happy stitching from my haven to yours!
