How To Make a Barrette Holder

Looking back to my own child hood, I can recall my fascination with Chinese lanterns. As a child I was attracted to the vibrant colors, intricate detail, sparkle and mystery of them. So to capture a little piece of that nostalgia, I've created a lantern barrette holder. Directions below.

Supplies:
Printed pattern
Scissors
Embroidery thread in black and pink
Pink and Black Felt
Sewing needle
Black Lace
Pollyfill
Right click, copy, save to file and print. This image was designed to be printed in landscape.

Cut out all pattern pieces. Cut out two lanterns. Cut out one bird on branch (cut leaves separately). Cut two rectangles if substituting felt for lace.

Sew bird/branch on the front of the lantern using a running stitch. Sew on leaves next.

Sew lace (or felt) on the bottom and top of lantern with a running stitch. I personally like the lace which mimics the intricate detail you would see on an ornate lantern. Next using three strands of black embroidery thread, backstitch on the lantern detail.

On the other lantern peice sew on three 24 inch strands of ribbon folded in half onto the bottom of the lantern. On the top of the lantern sew on lace in a loop for hanging.

Place lantern pieces wrong sides together and sew together with a blanket stitch. Leave a two inch opening to stuff. Then finish stitching all the way around. Done.

Place barrettes on ribbon.

* A miniature version of this would make a cute Christmas ornament. If making an ornament, I would substitute the ribbon for a small tassel.