Sewing

Artist’s palette appliqué with covered button paints

November 6, 2011

I recently attempted appliqué for the first time, adding a 3 to a T-shirt for Casper’s birthday. Of course, on the day of his party he refused to wear it although he did on his actual birthday. This artist’s palette was my second effort and took a lot longer but Casper really likes it, especially the removable painbrush. Hopefully he’ll be happier to wear this one.

Artist's palette close up

I had the idea for this a while ago but couldn’t think of a good way to include a paintbrush and thought it would look unfinished without one. I was delighted when I read this post from Dana at Made and spotted the felt toothbrush she had made. If you haven’t seen her blog before head over as she has so many amazing projects and has just announced the release of her first book. I adapted her instructions to make the paintbrush out of felt and added velcro to the back (and to the T-shirt) so it can be removed. Casper really likes painting with it but I need to find a way to attach it loosely, otherwise it’s going to get lost soon.

Artists palette applique

For the other details I used 19mm covered button and covered them in a selection of different quilting cottons. The splashes were made using the same cottons and I hand sewed around the edges. The palette is made of white fleece and I used a zig zag stitch to machine stitch around the edge.

There are plenty of appliqué tutorials on the internet but I thought I’d add a quick picture reference for you. I hope it’s useful. I used Bondaweb that I bought from my local Fabricland. Make sure you have pre-washed your fabric before you start and remember to reverse your design when you draw it on the Bondaweb.

applique part 1

applique part 2

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6 Comments

  • Reply Heidi November 7, 2011 at 11:48 am

    Laura,

    I am loving your site! I can’t believe you’re able to make all this wonderful (and yummy) stuff while running around with the little one. Btw, your little guy is SO cute! (I have a little one, too, so I consider myself somewhat of an expert in baby cuteness. 🙂 )

    – Heidi

  • Reply Heidi November 7, 2011 at 11:49 am

    P.S.
    Is there any way I can follow you via an email subscription or through FB? These seem to be the 2 ways that I’m most likely to read a blog.

    Thx.

    • Reply Laura November 7, 2011 at 8:41 pm

      Hi Heidi, thank you for your lovely comments. I will look into adding an email subscription and let you know. We do plan on setting up a FB page too but not for a little while.

  • Reply Chi @ Carousel November 21, 2011 at 9:48 am

    Awww, look at that sweet little face! He looks pleased as punch with his new T-shirt.

    Making the brush removable is such a great idea, Laura.
    Interactive clothing – brilliant! 😀

    • Reply Laura November 21, 2011 at 4:44 pm

      Thanks Chi, really pleased you like it, especially as you’re designing your own children’s clothing range.

  • Reply Jess at SewSet July 21, 2012 at 12:27 pm

    OK – seriously? How cute is this as well?!! I featured it in today’s top patterns over at SewSet. I love it! Thank you so much for sharing!

    – Jess

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