In case you lost your directions or missed out on a kit, we have you covered. In this series, we will be showcasing past projects, in particular those that were originally released as Surprise Craftertunity kits at the library. So get ready to grab some spare materials and start crafting!
Ear Savers Done Three Ways
At this point most of you have had to wear a mask long enough that your ears start hurting. These ear savers are designed to help keep your ears from feeling like they might just detach from your head at a moment's notice. In this set, you will find options for fabric, felt, or crochet savers. Hopefully we won't have to stay masked too much longer. But just in case and until then, these might make the time seem a little more bearable.
A Note On Care, Adjustability, and Which Side of the Fabric To Use
Care:
Some fabrics are less washable than others. These patterns in their original format were designed to be machine washable, as the materials were 100% cotton. Some synthetics might not work in the machine. Always consult the packaging if included or look up best care for materials other than cotton.
Making Ear Savers Adjustable:
If you need/want to make your ear savers adjustable after it is already completed, for instance if you have some masks with longer or shorter elastic ears, you can do so by adding on buttons at even intervals further within.
"Right" and "Wrong" Fabric Sides:
Most fabrics have what is often referred to as a “right” and “wrong” side of the fabric. If you’ve ever looked at a piece of clothing and seen that the outside has a more distinct
pattern or is “prettier,” with more sheen or better texture, it is because when the fabric was created, that side was designed for the finished side and the lesser side was designed to be behind the scenes, so to speak.
Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference and other times it doesn’t matter. Either way, it takes some practice to tell them apart.
But if you can tell and want to go that extra step, try to sew the “right” sides together initially so that when the seams end up on the inside, away from view, the more distinct finished pattern is in full view in all its glory.
Pattern 1:
Fabric Ear Savers
Materials
Quilting cotton or other woven fabric
two buttons, larger than 1/2"
needle and thread
scissors or rotary cutter
pattern template
Instructions
Use the template to cut two pieces of fabric. To find your size, cut out the paper templates (the image below, done as a full page) first and hold them up to the back of your head. If you are in-between sizes, you can adjust the template pieces to make a custom piece.
Place the two pieces of fabric right-sides (the better looking / outside sides) together. Using a 3/8" seam allowance, sew along the sides, leaving a 2-3" opening on one side. If sewn by hand, a regular running stitch will work. Just ensure small, even, close together stitches for best results.
Clip the curves (cut little notches along the curves so when it turns inside out it stays flat. see picture). Turn the fabric right side out.
Top stitch along the whole edge, stitching the opening closed. If sewing by hand, remember, small, even stitches are your best friend.
Using a needle and thread, sew a button onto each end.
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