Materials you will need:
- Felt sheets in various colors
- Scissors
- Embroidery floss
- Embroidery needle
- Polyfill stuffing
- Hot glue gun
- Optional: small bells, ribbons or other embellishments
Step 1: Sketch and Cut Out Your Gnome Pattern
Start by sketching your gnome pattern on a piece of paper. Traditional gnomes have a cone-shaped body and a pointed hat. Once you’re happy with your design, cut it out carefully. Use the paper pattern to trace and cut out the appropriate pieces on your felt sheets. You’ll need two body pieces and one hat piece in your chosen colors.
Step 2: Sew the Body Together
Take one of the body pieces and position it vertically. Thread your embroidery needle with a coordinating color of embroidery floss. Start sewing from the bottom using a simple running stitch all the way up to the top. Repeat this step on the other body piece.
Step 3: Stuff and Close the Body
Now it’s time to stuff your gnome’s body with Polyfill stuffing. Begin filling from the bottom, pushing small amounts of stuffing at a time. Use the eraser end of a pencil or a chopstick to help distribute the stuffing evenly. Once your gnome’s body is plump, sew the bottom closed using a ladder stitch.
Step 4: Assemble and Decorate the Hat
Place the two edges of the hat piece together, matching the curved edges. Sew these edges together using a running stitch. Once the hat is sewn, turn it right side out. You can now embellish the hat with small bells, ribbons, or other decorative items. Get creative!
Step 5: Attach the Hat to the Body
Apply a small amount of hot glue to the top of your gnome’s body. Carefully place the hat on top of the body, pressing it down gently to secure it in place. Hold it for a few moments until the glue dries and the hat is firmly attached.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
To add facial features, cut out tiny circles of felt in contrasting colors for the eyes, nose, and mouth. Use a small amount of hot glue to attach these pieces, or you can stitch them on with embroidery floss. Feel free to experiment with different expressions and details!
There you have it – your very own felt gnome. With a little creativity and a few simple steps, you can make a charming addition to your home decor or create delightful gifts for friends and family. Have fun crafting!