Recycled neckties that have been prepared by opening them up, removing the inner padding and pressed flat can now be treated as small bits of beautiful fabric. Remember, necktie fabrics are usually not color-fast so while you will not be washing them be careful to not sew them into a project that will need to be washed.
However, you will need to reinforce each piece of fabric with lightweight interfacing using a steam iron and a damp pressing cloth. The colors won’t noticeable fade but your ironing board will be at risk of staining. Always have a piece of muslin or an old handkerchief ready to protect your ironing board!
You will probably want to cut the tie into 2 or 3 pieces to do this ironing, depending on the size pieces you need for your project. If you are making a 12″ pillow cut the tie into pieces about 14″ long. Once all your pieces are stabilized with interfacing you are ready to lay out your projects. Treat your tie pieces just as you would any other fabric!
Samples of projects
Of course, pillows are most common:
Wine bags and small cosmetic bags use the same principles:
I’ve even explored using left over pieces in crazy quilt projects:
Keep your eyes open for free collections of neckties…you never know what you might be able to use them for!
Email me if you’d like to chat! marykisner@comcast.net.
Enjoy!
I am so very grateful to find comfort and inspiration here! Thank you!
Thanks Jenn!
Very cool ideas, Mary!
Thanks Jean!