How to make an egg cosy

What you will need • 10x25cm (4x10in) of background fabric • 10x25cm (4x10in) of lining fabric • scraps of fabric to make the appliqué design • threads in various colours • a small embroidery hoop • a sewing machine with a freehand embroidery function Step one Make a paper pattern in the shape shown and use it to cut out two pieces of both background and lining fabric. Step two Cut out the fabric pieces for your appliqué design – maybe a heart, a chick, a letter, or whatever you like. Secure one piece of the background fabric on to a small embroidery hoop. Using your sewing machine in the freehand embroidery setting, outline the appliqué shapes onto the background fabric. Once the design is finished cut any thread ends and press the fabric with an iron. Step three Switch to the running foot on your machine. Place one piece of background fabric on top of one piece of lining, with the right sides facing, and stitch along the bottom edge. Repeat with the other two pieces. Step four Open out the two pieces and press the seams open. Place linings and background pieces together, again with the right sides facing. Step five Sew all around the edges, leaving an opening in the lining fabric long enough to turn the fabric through. Step six Turn the cosy right sides out and sew along the opening in the lining to close. Tuck the lining into the outer cosy and your egg will be just that – nice and cosy!