How to make gingerbread tree decorations

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If you’re new to sewing, this easy Christmas sewing project is perfect for you! There’s no need to get out the sewing machine, as all of the pieces can be stitched together by hand. It’s easy enough for children to manage because it only uses two stitches (whip stitch and back stitch), so they can join in with the fun too. Pop on your favourite Christmas movie and cosy up for a festive crafting session! Read on to learn how to make gingerbread tree decorations.

This project was created by designer and illustrator Minki Kim (check out her beautiful work at minkikim.com) and was first featured in Simply Sewing magazine.

Notes

Use a 5mm (¹⁄₄in) seam allowance.
Download the template from Simply Sewing Magazine.
Use the house template to add your own motifs, such as the one with the tree in the main image.

Finished size

10 x 11cm (4 x 4¹⁄₂in).

You will need

Assorted felt scraps
Toy stuffing
Ribbon
20cm (8in)
Matching stranded cotton
Small button
6mm (1/4 in) diameter
Matching thread
Basic sewing kit

Method

Cutting out

Download, print out and cut out the house template.

How to make gingerbread tree decorations step one

To prepare the motifs, use the templates to trace each of the required shapes onto the felt scraps.

Neatly cut out the felt shapes.

Assembling the house

How to make gingerbread tree decorations step two

Using matching stranded cotton, attach the roof, window, curtain, snowman, door and door window using whip stitch. Using dark thread, stitch the window and snowman details using backstitch. Add a button on the door.

How to make gingerbread tree decorations step three

Attach the roof on the other house piece using whip stitch. Pin or clip to the house front with the wrong sides (WS) together.

Fold the ribbon in half and tie a knot. Slip in the knot between the roof layers at the peak of the roof and pin in place.

How to make gingerbread tree decorations step four

Using matching thread, sew the two layers together using whip stitch, leaving a 5cm (2in) gap for stuffing.

How to make gingerbread tree decorations step five

Stuff the house with toy stuffing.

Whip stitch the gap closed to finish.

You’re all done! Decorate your Christmas tree with your finished gingerbread decorations.

Minki Kim

Minki Kim is a trained artist and crafter who currently lives in California. She’s known for her ‘sewing illustrations’ – turning sketches into stitches. She’s the author of several sewing and crafting books including. Sew Illustrated and Diary in Stitches. She has had her work featured craft magazines such as Simply Sewing, Quilts and More and Homespun. Discover her amazing designs on Instagram @zeriano.

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