You will need

• embroidery templates below
• piece of DMC Aida canvas with 8 holes per 2,5cm
• fabric remnants in matching colours
• buttons in various sizes, to cover
• remnants of stranded embroidery thread in matching colours
• small blunt-ended tapestry needle
• embroidery hoop

 

Cross-stitch for buttons

Cross-stitch heart motif

 

NOTE Embroider on a rectangular piece of canvas and then cut out for the buttons.

To make
1 On the template, every square represents a complete cross stitch. Secure the canvas in an embroidery hoop. Using three strands of embroidery thread, work the various designs on the fabric. Work all the stitches in the same direction and make sure you work in sizes that are correct for the size buttons you wish to cover.

2 Draw a circle for the top piece of the button on the wrong side of the canvas and the fabric remnants. The circle must be twice the size of the top piece. Make sure the embroidery is in the centre of the circle so the design will be in the centre of the button.

3 Cut the circle out. Place the top of the button in the centre of the circle with the right side of the button facing the wrong side of the fabric. Fold the fabric over the serrated edge as smoothly as you can. If the fabric is too bulky to fold, work running stitches around the outer edge of the circle and pull them in over the button.

4 Place the back button plate over the top section and snap the two pieces together. If it is difficult to do this with your fingers, use a pair of long-nosed pliers.

Text and image: Ideas magazine