Holiday buttons make up this clever tree embellishment, complete from topper to trunk. They’re simply tied on and threads left as part of the tree’s trimming. Finished Size of Project: 14 1/2″ square Supplies 1/2 yd white cotton twill 6 red buttons, 1 1/4″ 6 green buttons, 1 1/4″ Assorted 3/8″-1/2″ buttons One 1 3/4″ brown button (trunk) One 1 1/2″ metal button (topper) Polyester fiberfill Coordinating Dual Duty XP All-Purpose thread White Coats Dual Duty Plus Button & Craft thread Fabric glue Large-eye hand sewing needle TIP: Look for red/green button assortments, as opposed to purchasing buttons individually—they are a more economical option. Cutting From the white twill, cut: 2 squares, 15″ Making the Tree Mark the vertical center of one twill square by pressing a light crease about 3″ from the top and bottom. Lay out the large buttons, alternating colors, to form a tree shape. Fill in the center with the smaller buttons. When you’re satisfied with the layout, place a small dot of glue under each button to hold it in place for stitching. Allow to dry. Using the Button & Craft thread doubled through the needle’s eye, and working from the right side, sew down through one hole and up through the opposite hole in the button. Leave thread ends long enough to tie. Clip the threads, then tie them securely into a knot. Repeat for each button in the tree and trunk. Sew on the tree topper button at the upper tree point. Using a toothpick, put a tiny dab of glue on each button knot; allow to dry, then clip the thread ends to the desired size. Making the Pillow Seam allowance is 1/4″ Right sides together, place the pillow back square over the button embellished front, matching raw edges. Sew around the pillow edges, leaving a 4″ opening for turning. Clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the pillow right side out through the opening. Stuff the pillow to the desired firmness. Turn under the edges of the opening and hand stitch closed.
