Outdoor Bunting Tutorial

I love buntings.  They add a bit of joy to any room, don't you agree?  The kids each have one in their rooms, so I thought, why not make one for the front porch?  We had some oilcloth that I have had around the house for about 8 years (literally).  It was first used as a splat mat under Abby's high chair, then as a floor covering for art projects.  Lately it has been folded up in Abby's closet, collecting dust.  It may have some dried up paint (and babyfood? Nawww) on it, but who cares... it's going outside, right?  That's how lazy I am.  Let the rain wash it off.

The oilcloth is perfect for the outdoors and it couldn't be easier to transform into a fun welcoming decoration.  Here's how I made it:

1. Cut the shape of a flag out of a piece of paper or cardstock.
2. Place the widest end of the flag (the top) on the fold of the oilcoth.
3. Trace and cut with pinking shears.  When you open it up you have a tall diamond.

(No photos needed for the first three steps, I presume.  To be honest, I forgot to take them. Heh, heh.)

4. Fold the diamond back in half and sew about 3/4 of an inch down, across the width of the flag.  Repeat with remaining flags.

5. Thread a length of twine through the flags and hang.

Simple and easy, no?  If you don't have a store in your area that sells oilcloth, here are a few online sources:

• Oilcloth Addict on Etsy.
• Fabric Depot (They have chalkcloth too, how cool is that?)
• Mendel's Far Out Fabrics

What else have you used oilcloth for?

I'm linking up today with Lolly Jane Boutique, Sew Much Ado, Blue Cricket Designs, Someday Crafts, Friday Fun Finds.

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