Finishing

I traced the pillow form shape onto tissue paper, using the tissue paper as patterns for the backs and then cut enough strips the depth of the pillow to wrap around. I could have used zippers or Velcro to close the pillows, but decided hand sewing the pillows closed would work fine. (This isn't detailed enough to really be instructions, but just give an idea of the process.) I attached the sides to the back and then wrestled the thicker pantyhose weaving quilted fabric. Then I turned the pillow top and squeezed the form inside. I cut and sewed some other scraps to make ties to hand sew on to the pillows so the pillows could be tied to a chair (or removed) Once both were done I still had a week to fiddle with them and make adjustments. They were just set up in the dining room so I could look now and again and see if any great ideas came to me. The woven pillow needed something to bring the turquoise from the background into the weaving so I added some daisy stitch flowers, which also anchored the tights to the backing. The braided rug pillow needed something but I could figure out what. The braided spiral by itself looked too plain. Then I realized it kind of looked like the center of a sunflower. I dug into my felt stash and found some yellow that I could use for petals. I basted, then handstitched the petals. DONE! I'll go back through and doublecheck for threads that need trimming and write out some care instructions to add to package. Now, what shall I do w/ all the leftover pantyhose! It may become stuffing for stuffed animals or pillows -- or maybe I can tie up some plants.. Or I could always donate it back to MECCA. Next week we turn everything in. That was fun and a good challenge. Can't wait to see what the other 100 or so participants created!