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What you need
Instructions
Before you put that lonely Christmas sock back in the drawer, take another look at its festive design. A little penguin, reindeer or gnome might be just the thing for a handmade Christmas decoration.
I love a project where the fabric does the decorating for you. With these Christmas sock hoop ornaments, there’s no stitching or complicated pattern to follow. The embroidery hoop becomes a ready-made frame, turning a small section of festive sock fabric into something you can hang and enjoy.
This is also a lovely way to rescue a favourite seasonal sock when its partner has disappeared or the heel has worn through. As long as the patterned section is clean and in good condition, it can have another Christmas on display.
Make a matching pair, mix different characters, or gather several hoops into a cheerful little gallery. For more seasonal projects, browse our Christmas crafts.
Instructions
1. Choose your design
Lay the sock flat and position the hoop over the motif you want to feature. Check that there is enough fabric around the entire hoop to hold it securely. Choose a smaller hoop if the fabric needs excessive stretching.
2. Open the sock
Cut along the back of the sock, from the cuff towards the toe, opening it into a flat piece. Keep your cut away from the design you plan to display.
3. Position the fabric
Loosen the screw and separate the two hoop rings. Place the sock fabric over the inner ring, with your chosen design centred.
4. Fit the outer hoop
Press the outer ring over the fabric and inner ring. Gently adjust the fabric until the surface is smooth. Avoid pulling so firmly that the character or stripes become distorted.
5. Tighten and trim
Tighten the screw, checking the design as you go. Turn the hoop over and trim the surplus fabric, leaving a short border for finishing.
6. Neaten the back
Fold the remaining fabric towards the inside back edge and secure with a little suitable glue. Let it dry according to the adhesive instructions.
7. Add a hanger
Tie ribbon or twine around the screw fitting. Hang your finished decoration on the tree or combine several hoops in a festive wall display.
Craft Tip
Check that the hoop grips the fabric securely before trimming. Thin or very stretchy socks may need a little extra adjustment.
Project photo credit: Silje Mork Bjørndal, @craftsbysilje.
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