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Clara Bow Pin

This cute accessory can be made using small scraps from leftover projects. Because of its versatility as a pin, the bow could easily be worn on anything from a hairband to a purse. Here we’ve used stripe fabric cut on the bias. You can easily customize this using contrasting fabrics, or replacing the center band with a fun ribbon. The best part is that all the things you need are already in your sewing space!

Items Needed:
Four 3 5/8” x 3 3/4” squares, if using stripes, cut two on each bias
3” x 1” strip
thread
needle
safety pin or pin backing

1. For bias stripes, sew opposite stripes right side facing (stripes don’t have to match at center seam). If you’re sewing pieces cut on grain, stitch the shorter sides together.

2. Press seam open.

3. Pin both rectangular pieces right sides together. Sew with a 5/8” seam allowance, leaving a 2” opening at the middle.

4. Trim the seams and flip to right side. Push out the corners with a point turner. Pin the opening and hand sew it closed.

5. Pleat the bow in the center by pinching it with your fingers. Hand sew into place with a few stitches. You just want to tack it down.

6. Sew the 3” x 1” strip with a 1/4” seam allowance. Turn the band to the right side and iron flat.

7. Position band over the center of the bow. On the back side match up the edges and stitch closed, catching the back of the bow so the band stays in place. You may need to trim the band so that it fits snugly.

8. Sew (or glue!) the bow band onto the pin back.

And there you have it, a fun little accessory for just about anything!

Caitlin Clark

Caitlin is the Colette Patterns design assistant. You can follow Caitlin at her blog, the story girl.

Comments

K2

February 28, 2011 #

So easy to make and looks so lovely. Thanks for the tutorail

Tasha

February 28, 2011 #

Wonderful tutorial, thanks! I’m about to sew a vintage dress pattern soon with a little bow and the instructions for the bow are rather skimpy, so I may very well scrap those for yours.

a.b.

February 28, 2011 #

OOh! I never thought of using them as pins. I made a few different pairs of these to go on shoes. http://www.flickr.com/photos/dinosaurhouse/4519970166/

Christine

February 28, 2011 #

Very cute! I love little accessories like this. I may have to make a few variations to attach to multiple outfits. :)

LindsayBobindsay

March 7, 2011 #

Neato! I am totally going to pump some of these out! Thanks for the quick craft idea, perfect for a lazy night.

Deanna

March 14, 2011 #

Ooo, have to ask where you got the bow shaped buttons from?