Simple Stitching: A Felt Leaf Garland

Hi there everyone.  Just having a quiet Saturday night at home after a busy day here in our house. 

Our oldest son, Bryn, turns 8 in a few weeks, so we decided to beat the pre-Christmas rush and have his party a few weeks early. We took a bunch of his classmates to see "Wreck-It Ralph" at the theatre then returned to our house for cake, ice cream and presents afterwards.  

At the risk of getting too emotional, I have to say that our family is very grateful to see our boy reach another birthday.  After the diagnosis and removal of a rather large brain tumour  less than 2 years ago, everyday seems like a gift and every birthday a miracle. 

Wishing you many, many more happy and healthy birthdays, Brynner!

Here is a simple little craft, easy to put together in next to no time and with the simplest of materials:

First I cut 40 leaves out of two shades of felt.  I use acrylic felt- it's cheap and easy to cut!

Next I chose a neutral cream-coloured yarn and a sharp-pointed darning needle.  After cutting a length of yarn, I stitched through the felt leaves from end to end, adding the "veining" to the leaves, and at the same time, stringing them together..

Within 10 minutes I had a string of leaves long enough to drape, pennant-style, across the big picture window in our front living room.  

I may make a similar one for the holiday season using holly-shaped leaves and little red buttons for berries.  

Now that we have lived in our home for 4 years (today is our 4 year house anniversary!)  I am so glad I am finally at the stage where I can add small details like this.  The big jobs are done - painting, furniture refinishing and new floors.... Now I can focus on the cozy details that make our house a HOME.