Post #51 - crafting

I'm working on a new craft project. 

It's an embroidery project. 

I got the idea from a crafting blog. 

It's very simple...just find a map of the United States, trace it onto fabric, stitch.

You know me better than that....of course I added more steps.

Once I decided how big I wanted the finished product to be, I made sure I had a hoop to accommodate it. I did. So I cut some fabric an inch bigger than the hoop height and width. I chose unbleached muslin because I like the looks of the brown flecks in the off-white material. 

I cut some light weight interfacing an inch smaller than the fabric and ironed it onto the back of the fabric. Muslin isn't a thick fabric choice, so I beefed it up with the interfacing. Easy peasy.

Then I taped the map in a sunny window.  I chose one of the maps from my computer that my kids have used for school work. I'm sentimental that way.  

 

But then I decided I probably should have marked the center of the map so I could match it with the center of the fabric. So I had to un-tape one side, fold it over and crease, put it back, then fold the map upwards and crease that direction. Center located and marked with a pen.

Next I marked the center of the fabric and taped it over top of the map, matching the centers...and began tracing the states with a fabric marking pen that will wash away when I'm finished.

I used a ruler to mark many of the western states. 

There aren't many straight lines on the eastern side.

I noticed that the edges were already beginning to fray so I got out the handy-dandy sewing machine and stitched all the way around the edge.

Then I hooped the fabric and began stitching....beginning with my home state (the heart of it all) of course. I couldn't wait to use the new variegated embroidery floss I bought this weekend. This skein has colors of red. If you look close, you will see the left and right edges of Ohio are dark red and the center is red. I love it. 

Next I want to get those pesky little New England states out of the way so I can enjoy the rest of the project.

Once it's finished, I will use this as the front panel of a throw pillow for the camper. I can't wait!