the slow way

This is certainly not the only way but it is one of the ways I create "little hopes," the small art quilt atcs made at a recent retreat. I used this particular approach because I wasn't sure about the sewing experience of the workshop participants and we weren't using sewing machines or irons.


First I cut out 3 x 4 inch rectangles of background fabric and backing fabric. Using the technique described below, these dimensions should result in a standard 2 1/2 x 31/2 atc. I also cut out slightly smaller rectangles of batting.

 

These were prepared ahead of time. Participants also had the choice of selecting any of the backing rectangles to embellish and use as the front if they preferred not to piece.

This is how I created the atc shown in the first photo. Using scraps of fabric and by sewing and flipping them over, the front was created.

The next step was to center the batting behind the front (top) and begin attaching embellishments. For this atc, I attached a layer of tulle and a bit of novelty yarn.

After adding the embellishments, select a backing. Then pin the three layers (top, batting and backing) together. Sew along the edge (a scant 1/4 inch), leaving an open space along the middle of one of the longer sides. 

Carefully turn the piece inside out. Use an object such as the blunt end of a skewer to make sure all of the corners are turned out.

 Sew the edges of the opening together. Then add any additional embellishments and quilt as desired. Participants were also encourage to sign and date the back.