Safety Notice: Handmade items made from this pattern may contain small parts or long cords that pose choking or strangulation risks. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Please see the full safety disclaimer at sewmag.co.uk/safety.
Create soft bricks for your little ones using remnants of liberty fabric and decorative needlework Brighten up a child's bedroom with this modern play block set by Hélène Le Berre. Made from just a handful of sewing supplies, it is a fun way to create a thoughtful gift for mother and baby without breaking the bank and is easily customised with counted cross stitch and coordinating trims for a truly bespoke finish!
Stitch the Motifs
Locate the two play block charts on the template. Transfer the first design onto a 15cm square of white linen with vanishing pen, then repeat for the second motif onto another 15cm square of white linen.
Stitch the designs, working each stitch over two blocks of linen and using two strands of Mouliné cotton for both the cross stitch and backstitch as indicated.
Assemble the Block
Centre a 10cm square of strong cardboard on the wrong side of an embroidered linen shape. Fold the excess linen over the board. Mark the folds clearly, then remove the board and cut off the excess linen, 2cm from the folds. Repeat for the second embroidered square.
Fix a 10cm square of stiff interfacing to the wrong side of each embroidered shape with spray adhesive, centring them correctly. Glue the excess linen or fabric down over the back of the interfacing and sew in place using large slip stitches, taking care not to go through to the right side.