Unit 2 · Project 2

Hand-Sewn Felt Patch

Now you're applying your stitching skills to real design work. Using your Unit 1 identity icon as the design source, you'll cut felt shapes and sew them onto a background felt piece to create an appliqué patch. The patch should be 4x4 inches and use at least 3 different stitch types and 3 colors of embroidery floss. Think about which stitches work best for different parts of your design — outlines, fills, details, and edges all call for different techniques. Use the Running Stitch for quick basting and holding layers in place. Use the Backstitch for strong outlines and seams. Use the Blanket Stitch to finish and decorate felt edges. Use the Whip Stitch to join two felt pieces together along an edge. For mending or joining split seams, use whip stitches; for invisible repairs, use slip stitches.

Reference: Hand Sewing 101

Hand Sewing 101: Mastering the Basics — preparation, essential stitches, running stitch, backstitch, blanket stitch, mending

Objectives

1
Patch must be 4x4 inches on background felt
2
Use your Unit 1 identity icon as the design source
3
Incorporate at least 3 different stitch types
4
Use at least 3 colors of embroidery floss
5
All felt edges must be secured — no fraying or loose pieces
6
Demonstrate proper needle safety throughout — needles in pin cushion when not actively sewing

Materials

Felt sheets in your color palette
Embroidery needle and floss
Fabric scissors (for fabric only — keep blades closed when idle)
Your Unit 1 stencil for tracing
Pins and pin cushion for holding pieces in place
Thimble

Tips & Techniques

1SAFETY: Keep scissor blades closed when not cutting — use fabric scissors strictly for thread and fabric, never paper

2Walk carefully in the sewing room — avoid bumping tables where others are working with sharp tools

3Return all shared tools (scissors, needles, pins) to their designated bins after use — do not pass tools directly hand to hand

4Pin your felt pieces before sewing — they shift more than you expect

5Sew appliqué pieces down before adding decorative stitching on top

6Blanket stitch is great for securing felt edges cleanly

7Work from the bottom layer up — sew background pieces first

8Use the Running Stitch to baste pieces temporarily before committing with a stronger stitch

Reference: Sewing Room Safety

Sewing Room Safety: The Essential Student Guide — sharps management, scissor discipline, workspace awareness, equipment maintenance

Reference: Hand Sewing 101

Lesson Videos

Running Stitch

3 min

Learn the running stitch — the most fundamental hand sewing stitch used in appliqué and fabric work.

Back Stitch

4 min

Master the back stitch — a strong, sturdy stitch great for outlining and joining fabric pieces.

Downloads

Unit 2 Student WorkbookPDF

Felt Stitch Sampler

Pop Tart Blueprint