Thread Spool Applique Tutorial
I am just so tickled to show you this quick project! We are taking a basic sweatshirt and turning it into something so precious with a thread spool appliqué. I love using these thin Time and Tru sweatshirts from Walmart because they are just perfect for layering when those retreat rooms get a little chilly! ❄️
This is a fantastic way to use up your fabric and flannel scraps to create a textured, vintage look that I just adore.
Getting Your Pieces Ready
For this design, you will need a basic sweatshirt or t-shirt and a few fabric scraps. I used colors from my "Little Ladies" collection because they are just so sweet!
The Thread: Three fabric strips (2.5" x 7") pieced together.
The Spool: Two fabric pieces for the top and bottom (2.5" x 8.5").
The "Lift": A scrap piece of flannel for the backing.
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Shape Your Spool- Angle the ends of your top and bottom fabric pieces and snip them to create that classic spool silhouette. It doesn't have to be perfect to be darling!
2. Add Some Dimension- Layer your pieced spool over your flannel scrap. This gives the appliqué a little bit of "lift" and makes it look like a vintage quilt block without all the extra work.
3. Stitch It Down- Sew around the edge of the spool with a quarter-inch seam. Make sure you backstitch at the beginning and the end because my grandma always insisted on it! 👵 Once you are done, just trim away the extra flannel from the edges.
4. Center and Attach- Place your spool on your shirt and use a ruler to measure from the underarms to each side so it is centered. Simply sew right over your previous lines to secure it to the shirt.
The Finishing Touch
I love the raw-edge look because it frays just a little bit in the wash, which is so pretty! If you want a cleaner edge, you can always use a zigzag stitch instead.
Shop and Sew with Me! 🌟
Shop My Favorites: You can find the tools and cozy sweatshirts I use on my Amazon Storefront or Walmart Storefront. 🛍️
Pre-Order Fabric: My "Little Ladies" collection is perfect for these appliqués! Pre-Order Here.
Join a Retreat: Come sew with me in person at a Southern Sewcial! Check Dates and Availability.
I can't wait to see your shirts! Tag me on Facebook or Instagram so I can celebrate your beautiful work.
Happy sewing, everyone! I love you all! !! 🥰🧵✨