Machine Embroidered Tree Ornament Instructions

Fold a piece of paper in half, cut out half a tree shape in the size you want your ornament to be. Set aside. Layer front and back fabrics with heavy interfacing in between. Choose a fabric that's not too busy or too dark. You want it to show up well against the background of the tree. You may need multiple layers of interfacing- ornament should be stiff, yet your machine needs to sew through it easily. Lay the tree pattern on the fabric layers, and trace the pattern onto the fabric. Thread the machine with rayon embroidery thread and choose one decorative stitch on your machine, and sew across, using the photo for ideas. Repeat with additional thread colors and stitches. Use a plain satin stitch to outline the tree. Sew a tiny round buttonhole or circle in the very top to put in a hanging loop. Create a hanger by cutting a piece of wire about 6" long. Bend a small hook on one end and put it in the little buttonhole. Pinch it closed with pliers. Thread on a large, decorative bead with a smaller one on top. Bend the wire back and forth in a tight zigzag, then a curly-queue at the end.