How to Recycle Wooden Embroidery Hoops
Rather than tossing out those old wooden embroidery hoops, make use of them in some new and exciting ways. The circular shape of the hoops makes them ideal for a wide range of craft projects. By combining the hoops with other materials you have around the house, it is possible to create something that is unique, visually attractive and even practical.
Many people are surprised to learn that old wooden embroidery hoops can actually be turned into something new that is very useful. Rather than discarding those old hoops when they can no longer be used for the original purpose, try using a little creativity and repurposing the hoops as a means of living out your commitment to green living and stretching the budget a little further. One option is to create interesting pieces of wall art using the hoops and materials that you have around the house.
Things You Need:
- Measuring tape
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Fabric glue
- Hot Glue gun
- Cardboard
- Ribbon
- Wooden embroidery hoops
- Measure the interior of the hoop using the measuring tape. Capturing the circumference of the interior section will aid in creating something to fill in that space and establish the basis for your wall art.
- Cut a circle of cardboard to serve as the backing for your wall art. Use the measurements of the hoop as your guide for the cutout. Make sure the dimensions are accurate, since you want the fit to be snug.
- Cut a section of fabric to cover the cardboard backing. For a quick and easy match, lay the cardboard cutout on the fabric, then use a fabric pen to make an outline on the fabric. Lift the cardboard from the fabric and use the scissors to cut out the section.
- Adhere the fabric to the cardboard backing. Coat the top of the cardboard with fabric glue, then smooth the fabric into position. Make sure the fabric slightly overlaps the front of the cardboard circle, so the edges can fold under and around the edges of the circle. Secure those edges with additional fabric glue.
- Insert the covered cardboard into the embroidery hoop. Lay the hoop on a flat surface, then gently press the cardboard with the covered side down into the hoop. Apply a bead of hot glue along the back side to help hold the fabric circle in position.
- Add a hanger to your wall art. Fold a short section of ribbon to make a loop, then use a dollop of hot glue to attach the loop on the back of the cardboard. The ribbon can be short, creating a hook that is hidden when the art is hung on a wall, or you can go with a longer and more decorative ribbon loop that adds visual interest to the piece.