It was the second tutorial we uploaded to our YouTube channel back in 2013, and one of the projects we always make in our beginner sewing classes. You know those soft hearts and stars we use as pincushions? All you have to do is add a ribbon for hanging, and they'll become the perfect Christmas ornaments made with a sewing machine.
You can make them small for the tree, larger to hang on doors, or even make the potted version, turning the fabric cacti from this tutorial into little Christmas trees. All you have to do is change the template you use.
Although they're very, very easy, here's a reminder of how to make them in 3 simple steps.
How to make Christmas ornaments with a sewing machine1. Time to draw: prepare the templates
The first part of the process is creating the templates for cutting out the fabric. Think of things that are typical of Christmas and have a simple shape. That way, they won't give you much trouble when you run them through the machine.
Stars, hearts, Christmas trees, gingerbread cookies, boots, candy canes… You can also make reindeer and sew little felt antlers onto the fabric (remember that if you incorporate the antlers into the main shape, getting it through the machine will be a nightmare). Remember that it needs to be easy to sew and easy to stuff.
To make the hanging ribbon, you can use cord, ric-rac, lace trim, bias tape, or whatever you like best.
Once you have the templates, transfer them to the fabric with a marker and cut them out. Remember to make two pieces for each ornament.
2. Time to sew: remember to recycle fabric scraps
I'm sure you have fabric scraps at home that are too small but so beautiful that you hate to throw them away. This is the time to recycle as many as you can. And if you're looking for something special, remember that we've already brought Christmas fabrics to the store.
Once you've cut them out, all you have to do is go to the sewing machine and join the two pieces of fabric. Remember to leave an opening for adding the stuffing.
3. Time to stuff and close
Once you have them, stuff them with batting or pillow stuffing. You already know that it's much easier if you use a little stick to help. Try to make sure the shape is well stuffed. If you're making a star, for example, make sure the batting reaches all the points.
Once it's ready, close it with the sewing machine or with an invisible stitch if you're a perfectionist.
You can trim the edge with pinking shears so it won't fray and will look prettier.
Here's a four-and-a-half-minute video where you can see the whole process under the machine.
Start making the Christmas ornaments with a sewing machine now, little by little, and by December you'll have a whole bunch. Choose a beautiful fabric and let's get to work!