Package Pillows

I submitted this idea to HGTV’s Carol Duvall Holiday workshop and was selected to appear as one of the Guest presenters. They are quick and easy to make and look great under the tree, on the mantle or on the table top. Any material can be used, but embossed velvet is especially elegant.
Instructions for embossing your own velvet can be found on the Hot Potatoes website.

Instructions

Supplies:
1/4 Yard Velvet or any other material
3 Yards Ribbon
Thread to coordinate with Velvet
FrayCheck (Optional)
Stuffing

1. Cut two pieces of velvet 6×6 inches.
2. Cut one piece of velvet 6×24 inches.
3. Apply FrayCheck to the edges of the velvet to minimize fraying.
4. Lay one square of fabric on top of the rectangle of fabric, right sides together, lining up the top and left sides of the square.
5. Sew the first side of the square with a 5/8 inch seam allowance. When you get 5/8 of an inch from the corner, stop with the needle in the fabric and line the second side of the square with the edge of the rectangle.
6. Sew the second side of the square, keeping it lined up with the edge of the rectangle. When you get 5/8 of an inch from the corner, stop with the needle in the fabric and line the next side of the square with the edge of the rectangle.
7. Continue sewing in the same manner until all 4 sides are sewn.
8. There will probably be excess fabric on the rectangular piece of fabric. Trim off the excess so that the sides meet.
9. Stitch the two ends of the rectangle together to close up the square.
10. Line the second square with the edge of the rectangle, right sides together, starting at the seam.
11. Sew in the same manor as the top square, leaving the last side open.
12. Turn the package right side out.
13. Stuff the package.
14. Hand stitch the final side of the package closed.
15. Cut a piece of ribbon 23 inches, or enough to wrap around the package plus a small overlap.
16. Stitch the ends together.
17. Repeat with a second piece of ribbon.
18. Slide the two ribbons over the package, one in each direction.
19. Tie a bow in the center of a 25 inch length of ribbon.
20. Stitch the bow to the top of the package.