Special friends deserve special gifts - especially when it comes to celebrating newborn bundles of joy. There's no better reason to take time out of a busy schedule to create some handcrafted pieces. If you are short on ideas but big on sentiment, I suggest picking up a copy of Baby Gifts: Simple Heirlooms to Make and Give ($18.95, Chronicle Books).

The dainty hardback is separated into chapters by theme, including wardrobe, nursery trimmings and toys. It features a variety of projects that are fit for all skill levels and uses. While many of them, such as the flannel receiving blanket and baby bloomers require a bit of sewing, others, such as the no-sew bibs and nighty nightlight, do not. Regardless, each idea is as adorable as it is practical.

In the spirit of gurgling, cooing cherubs everywhere, here's my own version of a basic baby pillow. Made from felt or fabric, it is easy to create and looks best when given as a set tied up with a piece of ribbon. Keep in mind for safety reasons that these pillows are to be used for decorative purposes only. !

Easy Baby Pillows


4 8 by 10 pieces of felt or fabric in contrasting colors
Paper and pencil
Scissors
Straight pin
Needle, thread
Sewing machine
Batting

Directions: Separate the felt pieces that you would like to use as the front and back panel. Sketch out the design you would like to use for the front of the pillow on the paper and cut out. Lay the pieces on another piece of felt, trace design and cut out. Arrange and pin the cut out pieces to the front panel and then sew in place, either with machine or by hand. When finished, stitch the front and back panels together, either by turning inside out or sewing right side out around the edges.

Variations: For a more elegant look, the book uses chenille fabric and pompon trim. For the front panel design, cut out letters to make a cute monogrammed pillow. Embroider two new cloth diapers and use instead of fabric. If you don't have a sewing machine, these pillows can be easily hand stitched.


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Labels: baby, fabric, sewing