project // stitch a card for dad with EPP templates

Does dad need another tie this Father's Day? Mine doesn't. But as far as Father's Day icons go, the tie is a top contender, and I still love it.

I especially love when I can do something a little different with the tie motif. I've done embroidery patterns and a printable banner, and now I've added some English paper piecing into the mix. You can make one of these in less than an hour, and it's a fun way to use a favorite hobby to make something for dad.



You will need:

Fabric
Glue Stick
Scissors
Needle
Thread (matching or a neutral)
Blank Card & Envelope
Craft Glue

EPP Tie Templates



Print the template on card stock and cut out the pieces. These are based on standard EPP shapes, but, other than the square, have been adjusted slightly to get a pleasing look. You can make both ties, or just choose one.

Use glue stick to attach the pieces to the back of the fabric, then cut out around them leaving about 3/8-inch seam allowance.



Baste the pieces. On the small trapezoids you can tack the corners through only the fabric. At the wider side there will be flaps.



You can fold those flaps to the back and tack them down with a stitch. This will make it easier to attach the tie later.



The long piece for the necktie is better basted by going through the paper and the fabric (although it may not be completely necessary). By doing a few stitches down the long sides, they hold well and you'll get a nice, crisp shape.



The two sides of the bowtie are just like the top of the necktie. The center square can also be basted through only the fabric. I found that folding and tacking back the flaps on this is also helpful. The flaps go right to the edge without hanging over much, but tacking them prevents them from showing.



Match up the pieces and join them together with your favorite joining method.

At this point, I recommend giving your tie a good pressing with an iron if you have one available. It just helps it keep its shape better.



Now, pull the papers out from the back. If it's become misshapen at all, give it another press with an iron.

If you want to make your tie happy and kawaii like I did for the necktie, now is a good time to stitch it on there. If I didn't stitch a face on the tie, my dad wouldn't know it was from me!



Use craft or fabric glue around the edge of the back of the tie...



...and attach it to the front of the card.




On the inside you can write a big long letter, or a simple message.



Make one for each of the dads and granddads in your life!

Download the PNG Pattern

And for another popular Father's Day icon...how about a mini grill that you can stitch! You could even embroider this on a hexagon and attach it to the front of a card, much like the ties above!