Dreamy Chenille

Transform fabric from a vintage chenille bedspread into a keepsake stocking.

STEP 1 Cut a length of ivory chenille slightly larger than two stocking shapes, allowing excess for possible shrinkage. Dye the fabric red following the dye manufacturer's directions.

STEP 2 Create a simple paper stocking template. Lay the template on the back side of the fabric. Trace the shape with the toe facing left. Trace a second shape with the toe facing right. Cut out.

STEP 3 Place the shapes together, right sides facing. Starting at the top front of the stocking, sew along the outside edge using a 1/2" seam allowance until you reach the opposite side, stopping approximately 3" from the top edge where the hanger will be. Turn the stocking right side out.

STEP 4 Salvage a length of trim from the bedspread or purchase ivory cotton fringe or tassel trim. Cut enough to reach around the top of the stocking about 3" below the top edge, with enough additional length to tuck inside the seam. Sew the trim in place or attach with a thin line of hot glue. Do not sew through hot glue.

STEP 5 Sew or glue a length of thin coordinating trim along the top edge of the ivory trim.

STEP 6 Cut an additional 6" length of the coordinating trim to form a hanger. Fold in half and sew across the bottom. Turn the stocking right side in. Pin the bottom of the hanger to line up with the trim, between the two layers of fabric with the loop facing inside the stocking. Finish sewing the outside edge of the stocking up to the top. The ends of the hanger and trims should be on the outside of the seam. Turn the stocking right side out.

STEP 7 Fold the top of the stocking inward just above the trims. Apply a small amount of hot glue or add a few simple stitches to secure the extra fabric inside the stocking.