How to Make a Bowtie for Your Cat
Introduction: How to Make a Bowtie for Your Cat
Have you ever taken inventory of your life and realized that you're missing a little something? Ever think that that little something could be some gentlemanly vibes? Well, look no further because I'm here to tell you how to turn your feline friend into the best gentleman that has ever roamed your house.
Supplies
* Fabric of choice
* Fabric scissors
* Matching thread
* Sewing needle
* Elastic
* Poly-fil stuffing (optional)
* Ruler
Step 1: Pick Out the Fabric
Picking out the correct fabric is important. One must keep not only the color of their cat but the personality of their cat in mind when choosing a fabric. Picking the wrong color or pattern could cause your kitty to suffer from a mixed identity crisis, which could be disastrous.
When picking out a patterned fabric, make sure the design is not too big for it will be lost in the tiny bowtie form. When picking out a solid colored fabric, consider how the fabric interacts with their eyes, fur, and overall complexion.
Step 2: Cut Out the Pattern
There are several ways to cut the rectangles depending on the initial shape of the fabric chosen. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve two pieces that measure 3" x 5" and 5"x 2" and are two layers thick. It is very important to note that these dimensions are not exact and one could increase or decrease the size of either piece in order to fit their respective kitty cat.
Now, in order to achieve the final size, it is easiest to cut a piece that is double either the width or the length and then fold it in half to the desired dimension. This makes the sewing step much easier since one of the edges will not require stitching. In the case of the long rectangle, which will later serve as the center of the bowtie, it may be longer than needed - this is fine.
Step 3: Sew the Pieces
Before beginning to sew, one must choose a thread of matching color so that any marginal errors in construction can be less easily noticed. For demonstration purposes, I am using a thread that stands out against my chosen fabric. Keep in mind when sewing any part of this project, that stitches must be kept small, for the final piece is so tiny that any large gaps between stitches would result in holes in the seams of your bowtie. Avoid this at all costs.
Fold both pieces in half with the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Sew the long skinny rectangle along only the long edge (or edges if you cut out two pieces). 316
Then use a pin, preferably of the safety sort, to turn it inside out, ensuring that all uneven edges get hidden inside of the piece and the correct side of the fabric now facing the world. Flatten out the fabric with the seam in the middle of one of the sides - this will be the backside of this piece - and set aside. It is important to note that when using basic quilting cotton, seams and folds can be pressed into the fabric simply with a firm crease using a sharp fingernail. Alternatively, one may take the initiative and pull out their iron from the depths of their grandparent’s boudoir, but this is a great deal of work and ultimately makes little difference to the final piece. If using another fabric, consider consulting your local Joanns representative for advice, but as a general rule of thumb: this is a bowtie for your cat - you really don’t need to bother pressing the seams. Moving on to the larger rectangle, fold it in half as well and sew it almost all the way around the edges. but leave a small - approximately one American inch - opening for which to turn the piece inside out. Then, after sewing, turn the piece inside out and press the seams flat as mentioned above.
Step 4: Stuff the Bowtie (optional)
If you find your fabric too thin, even when doubled up, you can add a small amount of fluff to give the piece more shape, a spine if you will. Although I have used poly-fil in this example, fabric scraps make an excellent alternative - simply cut into tiny little pieces before stuffing inside the bowtie. This step is ultimately optional, however, and if the fabric is stiff enough this step can be skipped altogether.
Step 5: Sew the Bowtie Closed
Now pay close attention, for this is a slightly more complicated operation. In order to close the gap previously left for turning the piece, you will need to utilize a ladder stitch. This will ensure that there is no evidence of your thread or gap and make for a more professional look. 748