How to: Quilted Cards
If you’re anything like me, your scrap bin is overflowing with little bits and pieces that you just can’t bear to throw away but that aren’t big enough to sew a quilt with. Well, buckle up because have I got an idea for you!
Sending (and receiving) cards is one of my most favorite things. The act of picking out the perfect cards, signing them, addressing them, putting a stamp on them, and then dropping that stack off at the post brings so much joy. As I was sorting through photo cards online trying to pick one, my scrap bin sat next to me just begging to be used and then the lightbulb went off!
These quilted cards are an amazing way to send a unique and thoughtful card while keeping sustainability in mind and using small scraps that might otherwise head to the trash. At their most simple, these are a quick and fun make but they also allow for so much customization and embellishment. Once you see how simple these cards are, I just know you’ll love putting your own touch on the process.
While I’ve had no problems with the letter weight of the cards, if you are concerned about a standard stamp being enough postage I recommend mailing them at your local post office counter.
Let’s get started, yeah?
Supplies:
You’ll likely have most of the supplies listed below and some can be substituted. A note about the supply list: there are affiliate links. Shopping with these links provides a small commission to me at no additional cost to you. This commission helps to support my work and offset the cost of providing content. If you do make a purchase, please consider using one of the links below.
I love these cold press watercolor cards. The weight is sturdy and the texture is delightful. The set comes with envelopes so you are ready to send your cards off. As a bonus, I love keeping these on hand to hand over to my kiddo whenever she has a birthday party to go to.
You can also use scrap batting for this project, just note that you’ll have to do the extra quilting step to adhere the fabric to the batting.
Glue:
This has become my most favorite non-traditional sewing tool! These glue sticks are inexpensive, dry quickly, and if they are good enough to wash out of my kid’s clothes, they are good enough to wash out of my fabric.
Scraps:
Any fabric scraps will do. I prefer quilting cotton but could also see using flannel, wool, linen, or rayon. Just note that if you use a thicker fabric, you may need to apply extra postage.
Sewing Machine:
For this project we will use a simple straight stitch and a zig zag stitch. We will be sewing through the fabric and cards so while you don’t need a fancy machine, you’ll want one that can handle those materials. I would think that any machine used for general sewing or quilting would do, I use a bernette b35 and love it!
Step 1
Once you have your supplies, the first step is to cut your interfacing to the size of your card, leaving about 1/8” on all four sides. My cards are 5” x 6.87” so I cut my interfacing out at 4.75” x 6.5”.
Step 2
Plan your top piece layout by arranging your scraps. I find it easiest to use strips however, I think this would look beautiful with a foundation paper piecing (FPP) pattern or using a small block. You want to ensure that when sewn, your piece is at least 1/2” larger on all sides than your cut interfacing. Don’t forget to factor in your seam allowance!
Sew your top piece using a 1/4” seam allowance. Since this will be decorative rather than snuggly, there is some forgiveness. Press seams as desired.
Step 3
Using your cut interface as a guide, trim your top, leaving 1/4-1/2” overage on all sides
Step 4
Adhere the fleece by placing the side with glue together with the wrong side (back) of your pieced top. Press following the instructions provided with your fusible fleece.
Note: if you are using batting or another stabilizer that does not fuse, you will need to quilt the top and batting to ensure they remain together.
This is a great time to really get creative with embellishing your top if you choose. You can add hand or machine quilting, embroidery, or sew extra trim if desired.
Step 5
Turn your pieced top over so you are looking at the backside, with the fleece attached.
Using your glue stick, place a line of glue on one side of the fabric overage. Fold the fabric over the fleece and press with your fingers to secure. Repeat with the remaining three sides. If needed, press gently with your iron to help the glue set.
Step 6
Center your pieced top to the front of your card. Pay attention to any directional fabrics and adjust the position accordingly. Use a clover clip to hold the top in place.
Using a zig zag stitch, sew around the outside of the pieced top, securing the top to the card. Backstitch at the beginning and end (I like to backstitch the corners as well).
Trim any loose threads and you’re done, nice work friend!
Now that you know the drill, you’ll find making these unique, handmade cards is a breeze. I’d love to see what you make so either shoot me an email or tag me on Instagram, @aandcowi
If you have questions or comments, reach out to me via one of the methods above or feel free to leave a comment.
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