Have a baby in your future or looking for a keepsake baby gift? Often, things we make for baby become family heirlooms that are treasured across the generations. How do you ensure the test of time?
Keep it Soft
You really do not outgrow appreciation for a soft and cuddly blanket. Great fabric choices include fleece, minky, ultra-plush, and flannel. Purchase blankets in a variety of sizes or make your own. You can easily embroider on plush blanket by using a water-soluble topper or heat-away topper. Add a monogram, design, or personalize it with birth information.
Make Sure it is Absorbent
Bibs and burp cloths are particularly useful and it seems that you cannot have too many. Fabrics must be absorbent. Consider using cotton, terry cloth, and flannel. Toweling works great if you are not able to find yardage to suit.
Many sewers and embroiderers pre-shrink their quilting cottons while others find it is not necessary with modern-day quality fabrics. When you are creating projects with flannel in particular, you will want to wash, dry, and iron the fabric before stitching. That will prevent puckers and shrinkage after use.
Polyester is Preferred
When it comes to embroidery thread, polyester is the best choice because it wears well. Poly threads do not fade, are typically bleach resistant, and hold up better when used on items that will be laundered often. That makes them a perfect choice when embroidering items for babies and children.
Cover up the Back
Baby clothing is a favorite of machine embroiderers. In addition to choosing soft and comfortable fabrics, the right stabilizer, and polyester threads, the back of the embroidery is another consideration. Stabilizers and threads can irritate tender skin. Fortunately, there are several soft and fusible products that help protect our lovies. Brand names include Baby Soft, Tender Touch, Cloud Cover, Soft Stitch, and GentleTouch, among others.
Debbie SewBlest