Free quilting pattern, fractal Christmas decoration - Page 2

Step 7

Cut out cardboard squares
Find a piece of cardboard - the back of a notepad, a packaging insert, anything stiff enough to use as a support but not so thick you can't cut it. With a pencil draw out six (6) 2¼" squares. If you have a 2¼" quilter's square then draw around it, otherwise use a ruler to draw out your lines.

Step 8

Glue fabric onto cardboard
Use a glue stick on the cardboard square. Place it in the center of the fabric square, fold the edges over, mitering the corners. You will notice the cardboard square is smaller than the image. This is to ensure you have a nice coloured edge on the cardboard when you fold it over. Make sure the fabric is securely on the cardboard and let the glue dry.

Step 9

Make holes in corners of each square
To make it easier to thread ribbon or thread through the cardboard, pre-punch holes in the corners of the squares. Use a strong, sharp needle and push it right through the fabric and cardboard - leaving a small hole ready for threading.

Step 10

Tie corners together
Choose which corners are to be the top and bottom. Tie the other corners together with a double knot and bow. You can use any thread or ribbon in your stash. Push the threaded needle through the pre-made holes at each corner, tie a double knot and make a double bow. Dab a bit of fray check on the knot so it won't unravel. This is a fiddly operation!

Step 11

Make a simple tassel
Using your chosen thread/ribbon, wind it several times around your fingers. Bind off the top by winding more thread around it and fasten off. When it is secure cut the bottom loops apart.

Step 12

Finish the decoration
Tie the tassel on by pulling the three corners together with your threaded needle. Catch in the tassel. Tie a knot and a double bow and secure with fray check.

Finish by securing the last three corners and leaving a long loop to hang the decoration.

Hang on Christmas tree or where ever you fancy.

Instructions for making a fractal design Christmas Tree decoration - Page 1

Rose Rushbrooke
Artist