"Thank you so much. I received my fabric already. It's beautiful. I'm making an outfit for myself out of it. I've never had anything from Hawaii before. Thanks again wonderful ladies. It is truly a pleasure to do business with you."

Monthly Project for December, 2001

Hawaiian Christmas Tree Skirt

Materials Needed

• 1 1/4 yard of 44/45" wide, Hawaiian Cotton Print
• 1 1/4 yard of contrast cotton for backing
• 1 1/4 yard of fleece
• thread
• 2 2/3 yards of ribbon which is 1/2-1" wide (velvet, satin, grosgrain, bias)
• String
• Chalk or marker

* Prewash fabric; soak fleece in water and dry flat.

Pattern

1. Fold fabric in half lengthwise; fold again widthwise. You should than have a 22-1/2" square.
2. Tie a knot at one end of string; pin to fabric where folds meet.
3. Measure 21-22" from corner to end of string & tie chalk/marker to end. Starting from lower edge draw a quarter circle from one edge of fabric to the other.
4. Measure 3" from corner fold and draw another quarter circle (for tree opening).
5. Pin fabric to secure and cut along marked lines. DO NOT UNFOLD.
6. Fold backing fabric and fleece in the same manner. Place cut unfolded Hawaiian print on top of each as a pattern/template and cut.
7. Unfold Hawaiian print fabric once leaving it double layered. Cut along one fold on one side from bottom edge up to half circle opening for tree. Repeat for backing and fleece.

Layer completely unfolded fabrics as follows matching cut edges: fleece, Hawaiian print right side up, backing fabric right side down.

1. Cut ribbon into six 10" strips for ties; clean finish one end of each tie. Fold back straight edge of backing fabric on each side of opening.
2. Place 3 ties along each side, spacing as desired & matching raw edges of ribbon with fabric. Ribbon should be "sandwiched" between backing & Hawaiian print with the length tucked inside. Pin excess ribbon so it does not get caught when skirt layers are stitched together.
3. Pin all layers together securely matching all edges. Stitch around all edges leaving a 6" opening along one straight edge for turning.
4. Clip curves and turn right side out. Slipstitch opening closed. Press.

Optional

• Topstitch around upper & lower edges using metallic or contrast thread.
• Add lace trim around bottom edge for a fancy look.
• Machine or hand quilt around floral designs for a trapunto look.
• Attach bells or charms to the ends of ties.

Enjoy this wonderful addition to your Christmas decor!