Chloe Zhang
Plastic canvas is a versatile and durable material used for many needlecraft projects, including ornaments. It is a popular choice for crafting due to its sturdy yet flexible nature, allowing for the creation of fun 3D shapes. When it comes to finishing plastic canvas ornaments, there are several methods to consider. One option is to use felt as a backing by gluing it or stitching it in place. Another method involves overstitching the edges of the plastic canvas with coordinating threads for a seamless finish. For a unique look, synthetic raffia can be used for stitching, adding a matte finish and a straw-like appearance. Additionally, plastic canvas ornaments can be turned into keyrings, pendants, magnets, badges, and more, depending on the desired outcome.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic canvas, yarn, felt, adhesive gems, glitter glue, synthetic raffia, metallic cord, steel yarn needles |
| Techniques | Cross-stitch, overcasting, backstitch, overstitching, stitching |
| Tools | Needle, scissors, ruler or tape measure, pin, glue |
| Ornament Types | Rainbow, frame, Santa sleigh, angel, gem |
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What You'll Learn
Using felt to cover the back
Prepare the Felt:
Start by choosing a felt colour that complements your ornament's design. You can use acrylic craft felt or wool felt, which are commonly available at craft stores. Cut the felt into a circle, matching the size of the base of your ornament. If your ornament has an irregular shape, you can create a template by drawing the shape on paper and then tracing it onto the felt. Cut out two felt pieces that are mirror images of each other.
Attach the Felt:
There are two main ways to attach the felt to the back of your plastic canvas ornament: sewing or gluing.
Sewing:
You can use a needle and thread to sew the felt onto the back of the ornament. Use a simple running stitch or a blanket stitch around the edges. If you want a seamless finish, use thread that matches the colour of your felt. For a decorative look, use contrasting thread. Stitch along the edge of the design, and then trim the excess felt close to the stitching.
Gluing:
Alternatively, you can use fabric glue or a hot glue gun to attach the felt to the back of your ornament. Spread the glue thinly to avoid soaking through to the front. This method is quick and easy but may not be as secure as sewing.
Finishing Touches:
Before closing the final stitch or gluing the last section, you can add a loop of ribbon or twine at the top of the ornament to create a hanger. Secure it with a few extra stitches to ensure it's strong enough to hang. If you want to add some extra embellishment, you can sew or glue on buttons, sequins, beads, bows, or small pieces of felt to create a decorative finish.
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Overstitching with coordinating thread
To begin, you'll need to complete your cross-stitch design and cut it out. Then, thread your needle with three or four strands of stranded cotton for good coverage. Secure the thread at one end by passing it under completed stitches on the reverse side. Bring the needle up over the top of the canvas and back down through the first hole along the edge. The thread should travel over the top of the exposed edge, covering it up neatly.
Repeat this process, bringing the needle up and down through each hole along the edge, covering the exposed plastic canvas with your chosen thread. This technique is perfect for a seamless finish, especially if you want to avoid the issues that can arise from overcasting the edges.
If you're working with a design that has frequent colour changes, you can finish the outline first and then attach felt to the back using translucent thread. Trim the felt to the edge of the trimmed plastic canvas, and you're done!
Plastic canvas is a versatile and durable material, perfect for creating 3D crafts like ornaments. You can use various threads, from stranded cottons to synthetic raffia, to add your own unique touch. So feel free to experiment and have fun with your plastic canvas ornament creations!
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Using glue to attach felt
Choosing the Right Glue:
Select a suitable adhesive for gluing felt to plastic. Fabric glue or a heat-activated adhesive like Aleene's Insta-Fuse Fabric Fusion is recommended. Avoid using a basic glue stick, as it may not provide a strong bond and you will need a heavy object to press the pieces together while the glue dries.
Preparing the Felt:
Cut your felt to size. Ensure that the felt piece is slightly larger than the plastic canvas, so it can be easily attached and trimmed later. If you are using scissors, you may find that the felt sticks to the blades. In this case, consider using an X-Acto Knife for a cleaner cut.
Applying the Glue:
Spread a thin layer of glue onto the back of the plastic canvas, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Be careful not to use too much glue, as it may soak through and stain the front of your ornament. If you are using a heat-activated adhesive, preheat your iron to the highest setting suitable for felt, with no steam.
Attaching the Felt:
Carefully place the felt onto the glued area, smoothing it out to avoid any air bubbles or creases. If using a heat-activated adhesive, iron the glued area for 30 seconds in a circular motion to activate the adhesive.
Trimming the Excess:
Once the glue has dried, carefully trim the excess felt along the edges of the plastic canvas. This will give your ornament a neat and finished look.
By following these steps, you can easily attach felt to your plastic canvas ornaments using glue. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and protect your work surface from any potential glue spills. Enjoy crafting your festive decorations!
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Using yarn to create ornaments
Plastic canvas is a versatile and durable material used for many needlecrafts, including cross-stitching. It is a great way to create fun and retro ornaments, perfect for Christmas decorations or gifts. You can use any colour of yarn to match your holiday decor or use whatever yarn you have on hand.
To get started, you will need plastic canvas sheets, yarn, a large needle, and scissors. Cut the plastic canvas into the desired shape, such as squares or triangles, and then thread the yarn onto the needle. You can choose any colour of yarn and create different patterns or colour combinations to suit your preference. Start stitching from the centre of the canvas outwards to ensure you don't run out of space at the edges. You can use various stitches, such as backstitch or overcast stitch, to create different effects.
When stitching, bring the needle up through the first canvas hole and wrap the yarn around the edge of the plastic canvas, bringing it up through the next adjacent hole. Repeat this process until all four inside edges are covered. Secure the yarn by passing it under slanted stitches. You can also add a hanger by threading a piece of yarn or raffia through the top of the ornament and tying a knot.
To finish the ornament, you can stitch or glue a piece of felt to cover the back of the canvas. This will give it a neat and clean finish. Alternatively, you can create two-sided ornaments by stitching two pieces of canvas together. Plastic canvas ornaments are easy to make and can be a fun craft project for both beginners and experienced stitchers.
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Sewing two pieces together
Sewing two pieces of plastic canvas together can be done in several ways, depending on the desired outcome. One common method is to use an overcast stitch, which protects the raw edges of the canvas and creates a neat finish. This technique involves using thread to cover the exposed edges, resulting in a seamless look. To achieve this, follow these steps:
- Line up the two pieces of canvas, ensuring the threads and holes are aligned.
- Anchor the thread at the back of the stitches.
- Pass the needle through each set of holes, sewing through both layers simultaneously.
- On straight or diagonal edges, simply pass the needle through each hole once.
- For added strength, pass the needle through each hole twice, and three times on the corners.
- On curved seams where the holes don't line up, you may need to add extra stitches. Pass the needle through all the stitched and unstitched holes, repeating this process three times for full coverage.
- To finish, weave the end of the yarn underneath the stitches in multiple directions to secure it.
Another way to join two pieces of plastic canvas is by using a running stitch. This involves passing the needle over the yarn stitches on the right side and under the back side of the canvas. You can also use specialty stitches, such as a backstitch or straight stitch, to add accents and details to your design.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need plastic canvas shapes, metallic cord, steel yarn needles, and scraps of yarn.
You can use stars, squares, circles, and crosses. Each ornament will use two shapes for the front and back.
Metallic cord is available in a variety of colours, including red, blue, green, and gold.
Use strong needles with large eyes and blunt tips. Steel yarn needles are recommended.
You can stitch some felt on using a backstitch around the edge of the design. You can also use glue, such as Aileens glue or Elmer's glue, spread thinly so that it doesn't soak through to the front.
