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Directions

When selecting a fabric choose a “novelty” theme fabric– like holiday, cats, or homespun to make it special to the recipient. Cut a strip 5” by 23” or whatever height appropriate for the motif of your fabric. Press under ¼” seam allowance on all 4 sides. Position the strip about 3” from bottom of towel (higher if you want 2 rows of lettering). Pin in place on front of towel and turn ends (about 1 ½”) to back of towel. Machine stitch on edge using matching thread. You can also sew by hand or even fuse in place with iron-on adhesive. Make sure the twill tape hanger is on the top for hanging.

Decide what you want your towel to say. It could just be “Happy Holiday,” “Lisa’s Kitchen,” or the family name on the top line and individual names underneath. Or it could be something that is special to the person – like “Cats Rule,” or “A Hockey Family” -- whatever you want. After deciding on the wording, write it on a separate piece of paper to plan the spacing. After you are happy with the design, transfer it to the towels with a soft lead pencil (if the towel is a light color) or a dressmaker’s chalk pencil if it is a dark color. Draw the letters free hand or use the letters provided if you aren’t comfortable with your penmanship. Go over the letters on the paper with a black marker to darken them. Tape the sheet to a window and hold the towel in front and trace the letters onto the towel as needed. The waffle towels are great for this because you can use the weave as a guideline. Using 3 strands of contrasting color floss embroider the letters using a running stitch or backstitch. Press. If you are getting short on time, you can even use a paint pen for the lettering. Embellish the towel with eyelet lace on the bottom; jingle bells, buttons, charms, etc. Or embroider a running stitch along the entire hem of the towel for an extra accent. These towels look great over the edge of a basket or shelf – not just in the kitchen. Enjoy. © Designs by Robin Anne 2003

Materials

Directions