KEEP OUT BUNTING

Instructions

Reference the downloadable project sheet for project pattern diagrams.

Step 1: Cut the Triangles

• Use your 8 1/2 inch triangle template to trace triangles onto your fabric.
• Cut two triangles per flag - one for the front and one for the back.
• Cut enough triangles for your desired bunting length, including one flag for each letter of your chosen phrase (e.g., KEEP OUT) and any blank flags you'd like to add.

Step 2: Prepare the Applique Letters

• Print out the letter templates at the desired size, making sure they are mirrored/reversed so they will appear correctly when fused to the fabric.
• Trace each mirrored letter onto the paper side of Heat and Bond (or similar fusible web).
• Cut around each letter roughly, leaving a small border, and fuse them to the wrong side of your contrasting fabric according to the Heat and Bond instructions.
• Cut out each letter neatly on the traced line.

Step 3: Attach Letters to Triangles

• Decide which flags will have letters, and arrange them in order.
• Take one triangle piece (for the front of each flag) and peel the paper backing from the applique letter.
• Position the letter in the center of the triangle and fuse it in place with an iron.
• Stitch around each letter using a small zigzag, satin stitch, or straight stitch to secure and neaten the edges.
• Repeat for each lettered flag.

Step 4: Sew the Triangle Flags

• Place each pair of triangles (front and back) right sides together.
• Sew along the two long sides, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
• Leave the top edge open.
• Trim the point to reduce bulk, being careful not to cut through the stitching.

Step 5: Turn, Press, and Finish the Top Edge

• Turn each triangle right side out, using a point turner, chopstick, or knitting needle to gently push out the tip.
• Press each triangle flat.
• To close and neaten the raw top edge, sew across the open top using an overlocker (serger) or a zigzag stitch. This prevents fraying and secures the front and back pieces together neatly.

Step 6: Arrange and Sew to Flat Cotton Tape

• Lay out the triangles in order, spelling out your phrase and adding any blank flags where desired.
• Position the top back side of each triangle against the back of the cotton tape, so the tape runs along the front top edge of the triangles when viewed from the front.
• Space the triangles evenly - about 2 inches apart, or closer if you want a fuller look.
• Pin or clip each triangle in place.
• Using a straight stitch, sew a single line along the tape, securing each triangle in place.

Optional: Add Hanging Loops

• At each end of the cotton tape, fold back a small section (about 1/2 inch to 1 inch) to form a loop for easy hanging.
• Stitch these loops down if desired.

Step 7: Final Press & Hang

• Give the whole bunting a final press to make it neat and crisp.
• Hang your bunting and admire your custom-made decoration!