The Best Christmas Stocking Tutorial

You are going to make a beautiful Christmas stocking. Whether you've been good or bad this year, everybody deserves a stocking! First things first, we need to show you how to draw the pattern. Making the pattern requires three sheets of 8 1/2" x 11" copy paper. A cutting mat is also very helpful. If your cutting mat has a 45-degree line, that’s what I’m going to focus on.

Start by laying the first sheet of paper along the 45-degree edge. Make sure the corner of the paper lines up with one of the straight lines on the cutting mat. For the second sheet, align its corner with the corner of the first sheet, matching them together. Lay the second sheet down, following the straight line on the cutting mat. The third sheet is simple—it just butts up against the second sheet. Once you’ve done this, tape the sheets together to hold the pattern in place. Now, we need to draw a few lines before it’s ready to use.

A traditional Christmas stocking needs a loop to hang it on the mantle. For the loop, I’ve cut an 8-inch-long piece of fabric and folded it like a bias tape. This will serve as the loop. Next, we need to mark where the loop will go on the pattern. On the last sheet of paper, fold it in half. This fold represents the lining of the stocking. The loop will come out of this folded section. Unfold the paper and mark where the fold was to indicate the loop's position.

Additionally, we’ll need to leave an opening to turn the stocking inside out during the process. Make marks on the pattern to indicate the opening—it should be large enough to fit your hand. Finally, curve the lines of the pattern where necessary. These don’t need to be perfect, as they’re just guidelines. Label the loop area on the pattern so it’s clear. Now the pattern is complete!

For the main body of the stocking, I’m using a patterned fabric. You can choose a plain fabric or a patterned one, but if you use a pattern, think carefully about placement. For example, I planned the fabric layout so a deer appears in the toe and another in the main body of the stocking. This ensures the design looks intentional and avoids awkward placements, like cutting a figure in half. For the lining, I’ve chosen a simple green fabric. When finished, the lining will show across the top of the stocking.

Cut the fabric pieces with the right sides together. I’ve already done this to show you. For the main fabric, stitch a seam allowance all the way around, stopping at the top (which will stay open). For the lining, stitch a seam allowance as well, but leave the marked opening unsewn. Don’t forget to insert the loop at the marked position, aligning its raw edge with the fabric edge. Secure it in place before stitching.

Next, trim the curved edges of both pieces with pinking shears for a clean finish. Turn the lining right side out by reaching through the opening and carefully pulling it through. Smooth out the edges by running your fingers along the curves. Now, stuff the lining into the main fabric piece, which should still be inside out. Align the edges and pin the seams together. Sew around the outer edge to join the layers.

Once stitched, pull the lining back out through the opening. Then, reverse the process by reaching inside the main fabric and pulling it right side out, along with the lining. Now, you should see the finished sides of both fabrics. Smooth out the curves and edges by pushing your fingers through the corners. Close the opening in the lining with a quick seam or whipstitch—it won’t be visible inside the stocking.

Finally, push the lining inside the main stocking. Shape it carefully by working your hand down to the bottom and smoothing everything into place. Once the lining is properly tucked, turn over the top edge of the stocking to reveal the loop. Adjust the shape as needed until it looks just right. If you’ve planned your fabric placement well, the design should look beautiful and intentional. That’s it—you’ve made a Christmas stocking! Enjoy the finished product and the holiday cheer it brings.

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