How-To: Fabric Collage and ATCs

Basic instructions for putting together Fabric Artist Trading Cards

Creating Fabric ATCs are not nearly as difficult as they may seem. When I started making them, it was a hard to think on such a small scale, as I am used to working on a much larger canvas (3 ft x 4 ft) But once I got started it became easier and easier. You do need some basic sewing skills either machine, or hand sewing, so those skills will not be 'taught' here. But tips for special techniques will.

Start by putting together your color palette. Pick a grouping of colors enough to use for a set of 5 or 10 cards. . Pick a grouping of colors enough to use for a set of 5 or 10 cards. Find or buy and use a color wheel if you are not good at combining colors. This is really helpful and the right colors can really make the piece.

Wash and iron all your fabrics before cutting.

Then using a ruler, a pattern or a template; cut out your backing pieces and your interfacing. Cut out fabric background LARGER than you want the finished piece. You will trim after sewing. Cut again with PINKING SHEARS after sewing all layers.

Next I will layout sets of backs, interfacing and front in the color combinations that I have decided on.

Using a standard glue stick (any brand will due, I tend to buy a huge case of them at Costco, so I always have plenty around) lightly cover both sides of the interfacing and stick on the front and back fabrics. The glue will replace the use of pins in this process. You can use a warm iron to help press the layers together if necessary. The glue will replace the use of pins in this process. You can use a warm iron to help press the layers together if necessary.

Now you put your collage skills to work. Place your special fabrics, text, images, lace, ribbon and other fun items on your front fabric. Move and rearrange until you like the composition. Once you complete this, lightly glue your piece together. Remember the glue is only acting as a stabilizer until the sewing is complete, so don't use very much. NOTE: DO NOT press with a warm iron at this point if you are using transfers, they will stick to your iron!!

Now you are ready to sew! Use multicolored thread to add color. There are a variety of stitching styles that you can use to add your collage pieces to your backing fabric. If you have done quilting or appliqué' before, use any and all of these. I use a basic straight or zigzag stitch, FIRST along the edges of the card to create the border and stabilize the layers. You can trim with pinking shears at this point, or wait until you are completely done. Then I go into the center to sew, with a small straight stitch, the images and elements of the collage. Get crazy with your stitching. I sometimes freehanded little circles on the borders.

Finish by trimming the edges so they don't fray, OR purposefully fray them for a totally different look.

HINT: I do these all assembly line style. Cutting backgrounds, piecing the ideas, then sewing. Adding beads and letters. I am doing about 10 at a time.