Fabric Picture Cards

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By Jane Chiodini

These cards are so quick and simple to make.

The real skill is in finding suitable fabrics to fit
the card apertures (what a good excuse to go
browsing in patchwork and craft shops!). Ideal
pictures can be found on overall prints, on the
borders of picture panels used for cushion covers
and I have even been known to buy children’s
sheeting and valances for their attractive pictures.

Preparation:

Having found your chosen picture and card,

trim the fabric to approximately 1cm larger than
the aperture size and press the picture, to iron
out any creases.

Make a template of the card aperture by

placing the card, inside uppermost on a piece of

paper and marking the outline of the aperture
lightly in pencil. Cut the paper pattern out.

Use this pattern to cut a piece of 2oz wad-

ding, craft vilene or white felt, which will now
be the exact size of the aperture.

Run a very small layer of glue around the

aperture on the wrong side of the card. Place the

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card above the picture
and when satisfied with
the position, gently
lower the card onto the
fabric and press lightly
all around the aperture,
turn the card over and
allow to dry.

Prepare to make the

card by folding it along
the crease lines and
then flatten out again.

With the wrong side

facing you, hold the
card up to a light
source so that you can see the exact position of
the aperture. Place your cut backing fabric
directly over the aperture and hold it in position
while you gently lay the card down on the work
surface.

Spread a thin layer of glue around the aper-

ture, approximately 5mm away from all sides of
the backing fabric. Also glue the fold over section
of the card in the usual manner. Fold over and
press well until card is stuck, paying particular
attention around the edges of the aperture - this
is the key to a good finish, producing a raised
luxurious effect on the fabric picture.

Variations

If you have more time to spare, you could

embroider or quilt the picture before making it
up. This looks particularly effective when metal-
lic threads are used for outlines and decorations.
The above method can also be used for general

fabrics. This is especially useful for the more
unusual shaped apertures, e.g. Christmas trees
and hearts.