4th of July Sashiko Table Runner Tutorial

This stitchery is very kid-friendly since you are using burlap and yarn and stitching with a running stitch, probably the easiest stitch there is. Younger kids can learn how to pull the strings to make the fringe and then older ones can work on the stitching - a real family project! 



You can also see I made a few red burlap coasters which involve no stitching at all. Just cut the burlap squares a little larger than you want for the coaster (these measure 6"x6" including the fringe), and then pull the threads for the fringe. Run a line of glue around the edges, just like the table runner, to prevent unraveling.

4th of July Sashiko Table Runner



Materials:
white or red burlap (purchase by the yard from the fabric store)
red, white, and blue yarn
tapestry needle (has a large eye and dullish tip)
glue that dries clear
scissors
iron for pressing
measuring tape if desired

Directions:
1. Prepare the Burlap

*Iron the burlap if necessary.


*Decide on the shape and size of your table runner
then add about 2" on all sides. Cut it out.


*Working on one side at a time: pull threads from the edge of the burlap until you get one thread that runs the length of that side. 


*Pull several more threads until you get a fringe length that you like; repeat on the other three sides. 


*Run a line of glue at the base of the fringe to keep it from unraveling, let the glue dry. Repeat on the other three sides. The side with the glue will be the back of the runner.


2.Stitching

*Cut a piece of yarn that is the length of your burlap
and add about 6".

*Knot one end and thread the other into the tapestry needle.

*Insert your threaded needle into the top side of your burlap, then, using a running stitch (the kind that goes up and down through the fabric) make a straight line of stitches the length of the burlap. Tie a knot on top of the burlap when you reach the end.



*Repeat the running stitches parallel to each other in any combination of colors that you choose until you're done. 

I hope everyone has a Happy 4th of July!