Today is an exciting day for me because this is the first BABY project I’m sharing. Although, to be fair, I would have loved this pillow even before we had baby plans… just for myself.
We partnered with Etsy Studio on this project, a new marketplace launched by Etsy specifically for crafters! They have millions of unique supplies available for all types of crafts and lots of craft inspiration too! Plus you know you’re supporting small businesses from all around the world when you buy from there—it’s a win win!
One of my New Year’s goals was to take the time to make our future daughter some kind of handmade project every month, whether it be a plush doll or a little hat and even a few larger projects like a blanket. This is the second one I’ve completed so far.
This project is doable on any skill level. You don’t need a sewing machine, and I finished mine in just one afternoon.
Supplies:
–pastel roving
-matching pastel embroidery thread
-scissors
-needle
-pillow (You can use ANY pillow that has a white or light base.)
And one more pic, just because I feel the need to gush over how SWEET these little embroidery scissors are. I mean… wow! Etsy Studio has all kinds of unique supplies!
Step One: Mark off your design with tape on your pillow. This is helpful to just give you the general idea of the shape you want to create. If you use a bunch of small pieces of tape, like I did here, you can pull them off as you sew.
Step Two: Plan out your roving colors by simply laying them out on the taped shape, adjusting them until you are happy.
I went with all pastels because I’m keeping our nursery very light and soft.
Step Three: On the end of each piece of roving, you’ll want to tuck about one inch under, so it gets sewn down under the piece. I left my roving strands uncut until I was ready to trim it off at the end.
Step Four: Stitch the roving down every half inch or so, working your way all the way around the U shape of each color. Oh—and be sure to start from the inside of the rainbow. It’s easier to control your shape that way.
Step Five: When you come to the end of each piece, trim it off about one inch too long, tuck it under and stitch it down.
I know it’s an extra step, but continue to match your embroidery thread to your roving with each new piece. It’s more polished!
Step Six: Repeat, repeat repeat. Keep adding colors until your rainbow is complete.
Done! Isn’t it pretty? I love the texture. It only took me about 2-3 hours to complete this little guy. I’m planning to put it on the glider in our nursery.
I actually almost added tassels or pom poms to the corners but ended up loving it better just plain. You can totally add some to yours if you feel it needs more detail.
Shout out to my DIY assistant who did not leave my side the entire day. She’s very crafty.
I had SO much fun making this pillow. You know how some DIY projects have you cursing up a storm by the end and some have you singing your favorite song… this was one of the good ones. I highly recommend it if you’re in need on an easygoing craft night with a cute result.
This was my first project with roving and it won’t be my last. I can see so many possibilities with it! Thanks so much for reading, you guys. I can’t wait to share my completed nursery with you in just a few months. Augh!! xx -Elsie
Credits // Author and Photography: Elsie Larson. Photos edited with the NEW A Beautiful Mess actions.
26 Comments
This is super cute!
https://www.makeandmess.com/
Thank you so much Michelle!
xx!!
I love it! The roving makes it look adorable and cuddly!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
So cute! I love your trusty helper. Every project turns out better with dogs. I love throw pillows, too. I have so many of them! I like to change out the covers with the seasons, to keep my decor looking fresh, using this easy DIY:
http://www.homedeconomics.com/how-to-make-a-throw-pillow-cover/
Sooooo cute! LOVE that fluffy yarn.
Love this! Easy DIY’s are the best!
I totally agree! 🙂 xx- Elsie
I LOVE the look of chunky yarn. #yarnporn. So cute and magical!
It’s one of my favorite supplies!!!
Hi Elsie,
super sweet.
One warning: our 11 month old boy would rip the rainbow out and apart in no time and try to eat the fluffy stuff…
Nadine
Oh man… I understand. Going to take it one step at a time and adjust as needed one our baby arrives.
xx- Elsie
This is GORGEOUS!! I love how the soft pastel colour complement the soft textures! Such a lovely idea!
Gemma
http://www.fadedwindmills.com
This is my favorite thing ever!!
Thank you Angela!
xx!
So cute! Such a fun DIY <3
https://www.myblackcloset.com/
This is so cute! Can’t wait for your baby to come.
No need for a sewing machine and done in one day? I’m sold! Love how adorable this turned out! Loved, loved, loved Laura’s nursery tour and can’t wait to see yours!
Thank you!!
this is so stinkin cute! New post/ http://www.oliviaschueller.com
I love this! I’ve never heard of roving – what an interesting material. I bet it makes for all kinds of interesting DIY ideas!
http://www.shessobright.com
Super Cute photos.
http://www.couponorcode.com
Love your pillow! I love the softer color choices too!
Awesome idea of crafting your daughter something every month -and how fun will it be when she’s big enough to assist!
OMG this is so cute! And thanks for introducing me to Etsy Studio.
This pillow is ADORABLE (and yes, even for someone without kids – aka me). It even looks like something I might be able to conceivably accomplish, haha.
http://www.wonderlandsam.com
This came out so cute, perfect for a nursery. I love that the rainbow itself is a bit 3D it gives the pillow more interest.
This pillow is amazing! I love it!
Paige
http://thehappyflammily.com