How to make Smocked Baby Shoes - As Seen in Classic Sewing Magazine, Spring 2017

Babies and booties are simply meant for each other!

I'm so thrilled and honored my little smocked booties were featured in the

Spring 2017 issue of Classic Sewing Magazine.

Ever wonder how little smocked shoes are made?

Well, it's not too complicated at all.  It's a bit tough to stitch together with the sewing machine so it's best to hand stitch everything, which does require a little bit of patience, but oh so worth the final outcome!!

I am totally enamored with ecru on white color combination, but if you fancy other colors for ribbon and embroidery embelishment, you can make these little booties for every holiday or special occasion during the year.

Full instructions and pattern templates are included in the magazine.
Annual subscription or single issues are available with lots of downloads
at the Classic Sewing Magazine website.
You can also purchase single copies of the magazines at your favorite heirloom fabric store, Barnes & Noble or Joann Fabric stores.

If you can find a Simplicity Bias Binding Maker, the job of making bias binding for these little booties will be a breeze.
Cut bias strips 1", fold them in half and then fold each edge to the middle ... or ... use the bias binding maker to do the folding for you with the 1/2" tip.
I absolute love this magical machine!
Be sure to starch the bias fabric really well for a crisp result!

Here are a few pictures of work in progress:

Add a finishing touch in the front if you like.  This can be done easier before assembling the shoe, but I sort of like to see how embellishments look proportionately once the project is finished.
Most importantly, I like to leave the best for last!

Place rolled wrapping tissue paper in each shoe and steam very carefully while shaping each shoe.
Do not press down on any part of the shoes or ribbon!