Monday, August 24, 2009

Back to School Tutorial Series --- Desk Dots

All over the country kids big and small are back to school! So I thougth I would bring back Silver Tree Art's Chalk Dot tutorial and make them Desk Dots. I know my homeschooling posse will love using these. Have fun!


Materials List:
Fat quarter, 1/2 yard or 1 yard chalk cloth
4-6 fat quarters, depending on your color variety
black thread
scissors
circular shapes and/or compass for tracing

First, gather your materials. To assemble using your sewing machine, you'll need thread, pre-cut chalk circles in the same or varying sizes, larger pieces of oilcloth for the chalk cloth to be sewn onto, and a compass or slide ruler if you need precision.

I cut my chalk dots first and sewed them onto my oilcloth before cutting the oilcloth. However, if you are using a compass or circles of varying sizes, go ahead and cut out all your pieces. I like cutting my circles (like my silvertreeart circles brooches) free form by hand. You may need symmetry - do what's best for you and yours.

On the machine, I used the right edge of my quilting presser foot as a guide around the chalk cloth, sewing 1/4 inch inside the circle, sewing clockwise around the entire circle. Backstitch and trim as you overlap your thread.

I like using the black thread on the chalk cloth. It looks good and hides any imperfections. You may like a contrasting color.
I hope you all enjoy this little home work helper!

10 comments:

Geek+Nerd said...

This is adorable. I might make these as gifts for my little nieces and nephews :)

Anne said...

This is such a cool idea!! I think these would also be awesome in the busy bags at our church.

I posted a link to your tutorial on Craft Gossip Sewing:
http://sewing.craftgossip.com/tutorial-desk-dot-mini-fabric-chalkboards/2009/08/24/

--Anne

Randi~Dukes and Duchesses said...

So cute ... and great for taking to a doctor's office or somewhere to entertain the kids while you wait. I'll definitely be making some. Thanks for the tip!

Anonymous said...

What a clever idea. I love oilcloth projects!

Rachel@oneprettything.com said...

Those are adorable! I'll be linking. I kinda want one for myself. =) Maybe a notepad or a coaster for my desk. "Rachel's coffee-hand's off!"

Kelly McCants said...

I am so glad you all like this as much as I do! Enjoy!

Deborah Raymond said...

Oh My! I Love these! I will make a ton of them for our home school room and for gifts. I was wondering if you purchased the chalk cloth and Joann's or Hancock fabrics or if you purchased it somewhere else? I am posting a link to it on my homeschool blog
http://LearningOutsidetheLines.blogspot.com

Kelly McCants said...

Debra, I am really glad you like them. The chalk cloth comes from my shop Oilcloth Addict! http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6207184&section_id=5685842

Andy Porter said...

What a cool idea!! My kids would die of love.
~Andy @ poppiesatplay.blogspot.com

Kitten's Lost Her Mittens said...

Thank you! I can't wait to try this.