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Turned into a bunting or used as flags in centerpieces or as accent decor, these Mini Fabric Flags are a cinch to sew and look absolutely darling. In this sewing tutorial I will walk you through the steps to make your own. While the fabrics I have chosen are definitely patriotic, swap them out for other seasonal or coordinating designs and you have a versatile decoration to up level any event or home. If you would like a free PDF pattern for this tutorial, simply sign up for my weekly email newsletter using the form below and one will be sent right to your inbox.
Mini Fabric Flag Supplies
- Fabric: for flags and accent “field”. Scraps work great. I love having a variety to make things fun. You will need one 8″ X 3″ piece for the flag and one 3″X1 1/2″ piece for the accent (optional)
- Dowels: 3/16 sized dowels are fantastic if you are wanting to make flags for vases, centerpieces or jars.
- String/Yarn: If making a bunting, you will need string or yarn. You will also need a needle to help string them together.
- Optional: ribbon, felt poms, wood beads or other embellishments to add to your flags.
If you are a more visual learner, I have a full YouTube video tutorial you can watch here:
Prepare Mini Fabric Flags
Begin by folding your fabric flag piece in half along the length. Next, fold in half again, this time along the height. There should be two sides with folds and two sides without folds. Now, you will need to decide which shape of flag you would like to make.
If you want to make a Pennant shaped flag (top), measure 1″ up from the short end of your folded flag fabric on the long side WITHOUT folds. Connect this point with the corner on the opposite long side. Cut along this line.
To make a Banner shaped flag (bottom), measure 1″ up from the short end of your folded flag fabric on the long side WITH folds. Connect this point with the corner on the opposite long side. Cut along this line.
The PDF pattern also comes with templates for cutting out the flag shapes if that method is easier for you. Simply cut out the paper template and place on the flag fabric that is folded in half. Trace the desired shape and cut out.
Add Accent “Field” to Mini Fabric Flag (optional)
Unfold the second fold on the flag fabric. (It should now only be folded in half along the original length.) Finger press the center fold to make a crease. Fold the accent field fabric in half along the length, finger press the fold to crease.
Place the accent fabric, right side up on the right side of the flag fabric. Use the creases to center them together. Line up the top edge of both pieces. Sew around the accent fabric using a scant 1/8″ seam allowance.
Finish Mini Fabric Flags
Re-fold the flag fabric, making sure the edges are all lined up well. Sew a seam a generous 3/8″ away from the folded edge of the flag. Continue sewing around the rest of the flag using a scant 1/8″ seam allowance. *Note: if you are placing your flag on a dowel, sew one flag and test to make sure the dowel slides easily into the slot between the seam and the fold. Adjust the seam allowance if necessary.
Add dowels to your flags, or string the Mini Fabric Flags onto yarn or string to create a bunting. You may also wish to add wood beads, felt poms or other embellishments.
These Mini Fabric Flags are so easy to make in batches, and because we are leaving the edges raw they come together very quickly. They make a fun personal addition to any party decor! However, if you are looking for something a little more polished- I have a free tutorial that shows how to make Fabric Flags with finished edges, perfect for seasonal decor you want to keep year after year!
If you make some, I would love to see! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook @AmeroonieDesigns! Happy Sewing Friend!