sewVery: Fun Flags Bunting Tutorial

Some weeks, I have the urge to sew but not a lot of time to do it. In order to satisfy my creative itch until I can devote more time to a challenging project, I like to make these cute, little strings of bunting flags using scraps of fun fabric prints. These are extremely easy to make, and you can, too, using my sewVery Fun Flags Bunting Tutorial below that includes the free pdf pattern piece!

The string of Fun Flags included in this tutorial happen to use a variety of Ann Kelle's Halloween themed prints as well as her Remix prints in black and white. Pretty much any print designed by Ann Kelle is ideal to make this tiny set of bunting. I have sets in different Remix prints that are ideal for a birthday party, Spring, or to celebrate the birth of a boy or girl! These always make me smile!

This project is perfect for you whether you sew or not. I generally make these using my sewing machine to secure the flags on the string, but you can just as easily use fabric glue as a no-sew option. Now, let's get started!

SUPPLIES:

Fun Flags Bunting Pattern by sewVery (download HERE on Craftsy (affiliate link))
Embroidery scissors
Scraps of Ann Kelle fabrics in assorted fun prints
Thin twine or cording
Sewing Machine (optional)
Thread (optional)
Fabric glue (optional)

From the scraps of Ann Kelle fabrics or other fun fabric prints, cut several pieces that are 1 1/2" wide x 5" long and fold in half along the length.

After downloading the Fun Flags Bunting Pattern piece and cutting it out, place the pattern piece on each folded strip of fabric as shown below and cut out the tails of the flag using a pair of sharp embroidery scissors.

TIP: I usually make three or four sets of bunting at a time, and in order to make the cutting process move quickly, I cut a 6" wide x 5" long piece from each fabric and then cut from that 4 strips that are 1 1/2" wide each. I then fold each strip in half and cut the tails on two flags at a time. This saves time and helps prevent hand fatigue. I typically use 5-7 different prints for one set of bunting or all one print with 5-7 flags.

Next, determine the order that you want to assemble the flags onto the twine.

For bunting that contains 5 or 6 flags, cut a piece of twine that is 20" to 22" long. Tie a knot in each end of the bunting for hanging. Open each flag and place the twine along the fold.

Fold the flag back down over the twine with wrong sides of fabric together.

TIP: I usually add one flag at the time at the sewing machine and sew it in place and then add the next piece to the twine, etc.

Option 1: Sew each flag in place by stitching the folded flag close to the twine but not through it. I typically sew one flag in place, then add the next flag and continue sewing. After I've sewn all flags onto the twine, I then clip the thread between each flag and adjust the spacing between flags as necessary.

Option 2: The no-sew method simply requires a dab of fabric glue be placed between the folded flag (on the wrong sides of the fabric) to secure it to the twine.

The Fun Flags Bunting is complete! Since the edges of fabric are left raw, you can definitely expect some slight fraying. No worries! Just leave those threads alone or pull or clip them off as desired.

Use your Fun Flags Bunting to decorate a cake, a wrapped present or gift bag, a door, or even to use as a photo prop! These are so simple and a great project for kids to assemble at a party using precut flags and fabric glue. Use up scraps of fabric and make a set for every holiday and special occasion! The uses are limitless!