How to sew a Christmas stocking

Hanging up a stocking the night before Christmas is the eternal expression of anticipation – one of the true joys of childhood. Even better is waking on Christmas morning to find last night’s limp stocking full to bursting. Fillers should be small and fun: chocolate coins, candy canes, hair clips and card games are all perfect. You could also add a ‘teaser’ for the main event, such as an iPod cover for the real thing under the tree.

Making your own stocking is straightforward and surprisingly satisfying.

 

Sew a stocking

1. Cut out four stocking pieces (two for the lining) and two cuffs, using the template below. Stick to one colour or use contrasting fabric forthe stocking body and the cuff.
2. Pin the two outer stocking pieces together, inside out, and sew around the edge, leaving a 1cm seam allowance. Trim and clip small triangles into the curves outside of the seam. Turn inside out and press with an iron. 
3. Pin the two lining pieces together and sew around the edge, leaving a 2cm seam allowance. Trim and clip triangles into curves outside seam. Don’t turn the lining inside out, it should sit seam to seam with the outer stocking. Place lining into outer stocking and stitch around top edge. 
4. Stitch two cuff pieces together along their short sides. Press hems around the top and bottom of the cuff with an iron, then turn it the right way out.
5. Sew a ribbon loop on the inside seam of the cuff, then add a decoration. Place cuff over the stocking, pin and stitch in place around the top edge. Attach the trim to the bottom edge of the cuff.

Click here to download the stocking template

 

Shaping up

To give your stocking a good shape, place a small orange in the toe before filling.

 

Photography: Scott Hawkins. Styling: Jo Carmichael. Fabric, pompom trim & wooden letters from Spotlight.