Express your love with this gorgeous heart wall decoration / hanging decoration. Named after one of the pet names I have for my children, chroí daor (dear heart), this project has been designed as a fundraiser for my son’s special school. It is also a tribute to a student who recently passed away all too soon.
 
It's not a commonly known fact, but people on the autism spectrum have a much lower life expectancy than neurotypical people. According to research by the National Library of Medicine, the average autism life expectancy in 2018 fell as low as 39 years. It’s heartbreaking and all too true, accidental deaths account for a huge percentage of those deaths.
 
SSP (schools for special purpose) give special younglings a chance at an education in a safe and inclusive environment and the opportunity to learn skills vital to independent living.
 
As this pattern was designed as a fundraiser it is a little more expensive then it generally would be, all profits will be donated to our local SSP school.
 
In memory of Jack. 2008 - 2024.
 
The pattern includes two size options, as well as a flat backed option for wall hangings, a truly 3D heart for hanging decorations and a "picture window" back that allows you to hide small things from your mo anam cara. 

Finished Sizes:
Large - 7 ½" Wide x 2" (4") Deep x 6" High.
Small - 5" Wide x 1 ½" (3") Deep x 4" High.

This PDF includes;
• Basic “how to” English Paper Piecing (EPP) Instructions.
• Print at home templates.
• Written and illustrated assembly instructions.
 
From your stash you will need;
• 1 x Fat ¼’s worth of fabric. (or a mix of scrap fabrics).
• Glue baste E.g. Sewline (glue sticks also work in a pinch).
• General sewing supplies e.g. needle, sewing thread and thimble. 
• Card stock around 200 - 250gsm or office paper and a laminator.
• Craft safety knife and ruler or sharp paper scissors.
• Optional ribbon to make a hanger.
• Add a quarter or something to help you add seam allowance.
 
DIFFICULTY LEVEL:  Beginner. An adventurous beginner would be fine, our instructions are both written and illustrated catering for both learning styles. 
 
   SVG Files are available to download as a separate purchase!    

*** FAQ's ***Do you I need a laminator?
No you don't, this is just a technique you can use if your printer does not like printing on card stock (like mine). What weight card stock is best?If you can print on card we recommend that a stock 220GSM - 300GSM be used, it needs enough bulk to hold the sides up but you also need to work within your own comfort zone.
 
Do I really leave the papers in?
YES!! Unlike traditional EPP our card stock templates stay in permanently. This is what creates, and holds the structure of our unique patterns together.
 
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Welcome to Cake & Ale! Our mission is all about combining the charm of traditional quilting with a fresh, modern twist. We're here to bring you patterns that you can lovingly handcraft using techniques passed down through generations. But guess what? You don't need to dedicate weeks to these projects – you can finish them up in just one weekend!

Now, if you're new to the world of hand sewing, don't worry. We've got your back. We're all about something called English Paper Piecing (EPP). This technique involves wrapping fabric around paper templates, kind of like creating a snug little fabric hug around them. This gives you the foundation to create these seriously intricate and spot-on shapes.

Once you've got these fabric-covered templates, it's like putting together a puzzle. You stitch them up, piece by piece, to form a work of art that looks like you spent ages on it. It's like magic, but with needle and thread.

So, whether you're a seasoned stitcher or just dipping your toes into the world of hand sewing, we're here to provide you with patterns that marry tradition and innovation. Get ready to create pieces that will leave everyone thinking you're a crafting rockstar – all in the span of a weekend!