How to Sew Patriotic Red, White and Blue Bunting

Forget plastic, store-bought Fourth of July decorations. This year, opt for traditional handmade patriotic bunting. These swags can be made in any size and customized further with applique stars.

By Marian Parsons, Mustard Seed Interiors
Filed under: Sewing, Holiday

Pin and Sew Blue Stripe

Open red and white stripe seam and fan out. Pin and sew blue stripe in same manner as red, always making sure raw fabric edges are facing the same direction (Images 1 and 2).

Hem Blue Stripe

Fold blue fabric under two times, making an approximately 1/2-inch hem (Image 1). Press and pin in place (Image 2). Stitch on sewing machine and remove pins.

Press and Sew Header

Press 4 x 40-inch strip of white fabric. Fold left and right sides under one inch and bottom edge less than 1/2 inch (Image 1). Press hems. Fold white header strip over top of bunting swag with hemmed edge on front side. Pin into place (Image 2). Sew left and right sides out from the center point into place, removing pins as you go. The center pleat will be too thick for most sewing machines, so stitch by hand with a needle and thread (Image 3).