Ruffles
In sewing, Ruffles are a strip of fabric gathered or pleated and attached to another piece of fabric used for decoration. Ruffles are a great addition to clothing, home decor for pillows to potholders and also to quilts! A ruffle around the edge of a quilt is a fun finishing alternative to traditional binding. Smaller ruffles used in the body of a quilt add dimension, a sense of whimsy and can be fashioned into flowers. Ruffles can be gathered along one edge or gathered in the center depending on how the ruffle will be used. Ruffles can be made by hand or by machine.
Benefits of Ruffles
- A quilt edge with Ruffles can give it a boutique look, perfect for a baby quilt.
- Ruffles in the body of a quilt add a layer of texture and make it something out the ordinary.
- Tiny ruffles can add a pop of color and whimsy, adding dressmaker details to a simple quilt design, while larger ruffles can add drama!
- Embelish a pot holder, apron or towel to add a special touch. You're only limited by your imagination when it comes to ruffles.
Tools and Supplies for Ruffles
- Ruffler or Gathering foot
- Thread for sewing the ruffle
- Dental floss or Heavy Thread to gather the ruffle
- Ruffles can be made with a ruffler or gathering foot on your sewing machine. You can also make ruffles by sewing two rows of basting stitches by hand or machine and pulling them up from the end, gathering the fabric along the stitches. Be patient so as not to break the threads. You can also zig zag stitch over dental floss or heavy thread and pull it to make a ruffle. In determining the length of the fabric for a ruffle, you will need roughly 1.5 to 2 times the length of the finished ruffle needed depending on the fullness desired.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started making Ruffles
I wish I had not spent so much time avoiding my ruffler foot. It's straightforward to use in spite of it's complicated looks. I can't stop making RUFFLES. For fun try ruffling crepe paper.
