Flipping through a Crate & Barrel catalog the other day and came across this table runner:
Super cute!
But I knew I could make something similar…
So first I shaped some store-bought bias tape on a piece of homespun cotton. I cut some of the strip in half and re-folded it for the skinnier branches…
Then I folded some fabrics right sides together and sewed circles (berries?) and leaf-shapes. I sewed all-around each shape using a very small stitch length and then cut out each shape with a scant 1/8inch border. Then, pinching just one layer of fabric for each shape, I cut a slit and turned the unit right-side-out. This resulted in many almost-perfect circle and leaf-shapes with nice edges. Easier than needleturn for me, and I like the look more than raw-edge applique (personal preference).
I hand-stitched each piece in place. Then I sewed on a backing (right sides together with the runner-top, left a gap, turned right-side out, top-stitched around the border).
I think this cost about $3.00 total for me considering the only things I purchased were two fat-quarters for the leaves. A lot better than $40 + shipping and handling : )
I love it! Your leaves and berries look amazing!