Kids Makes

Flower Power Top

This imaginative top looks complicated at first glance, but is made simply by stitching together two similar vest tops. Choose contrasting colours for a bold statement, or toning shades if you prefer a more subtle style or add some sparkle for a Christmas outfit.

MATERIALS

* 2 vest tops
* sewing kit
* tracing paper and pencil
* fabric marker pen
* tear-off backing paper
* sewing machine
* matching sewing thread
* scrap of contrast cotton jersey
* short bugle beads

To make

1 Trace the flower template enlarging it as necessary, depending on the size of the garment. Slip one vest inside the other, making sure the straps and hems are aligned. Pin the paper flower to the centre front of the vest tops, and draw around the edge of the flower with a fabric marker pen.

2 Tack the front parts of the two tops together around the flower template, 6 mm (1/4”) from the edge of the paper.

3 Unpin the template and turn the vests wrong side out. Tack a square of tear-off backing paper over the motif, turn the vests right side out and machine stitch along the outline of the flower. Use sharp-bladed scissors to snip away the top layer of the flower, cutting close to the stitches.

4 Cut a small circle from the contrast jersey and stitch it to the centre of the flower. Sew on a scattering of beads, securing each one with a double stitch.

5 Remove the backing paper gently from the wrong side of the fabric, taking care not to pull the stitches. Unpick the tacking thread.

Further information
This project has been reproduced from Details Details by Lucinda Ganderton (ISBN 9781845377304)
Beautiful embellishments can turn the simplest of garments into exciting designer originals and this super book contains a wealth of ideas to jazz up a wardrobe using a variety of simple techniques. Five different categories are included for using beads, sequins, ribbon, lace, flowers, fabric patches and wool to personalize garments and decorate accessories. Each technique is demonstrated with full step-by-step instructions and clear photographs showing how to make projects ranging from casual denims trimmed with ribbon and beading to delicate blouses adorned with lace or ruffles. Most of the projects are pretty and feminine and the author shows just how easy it can be to add texture and surface interest to readily available items. Accessories include handmade buttons, ideas for bags, belts, jewellery and corsages. Hand and machine stitching is used throughout and an illustrated guide to embroidery stitches is included along with templates and a useful list of online suppliers. ‘Details Details’ is published in hardback for £16.99 and is available from all good bookshops or by contacting New Holland on tel: 0207 725 9928.