'Twas the Night Ornament Series

Samples shown made with the Benzie Design 'Twas The Night Classic palette

My 'Twas the Night Ornament Series is a set of heirloom hand-sewn ornament patterns which are inspired by the classic 1823 Christmas poem, A Visit from St. Nicholas, by Clement C. Moore. Most folks know this poem by its famous first lines:

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
(If you have completed my Twelve Days Ornaments, you are ready!)

PATTERNS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE:

Pattern No. 5: Not Even A Mouse
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse...
This tired little mouse has climbed into a teacup to sleep on Christmas Eve. He is snuggled on his pillow with a warm quilt tucked securely around him and his Teddy. Mouse and Teddy are removable so they can be ceremonially tucked in on Christmas Eve to await a visit from Santa. Options to add a tether or fix them permanently in place are also included.


Pattern No. 4: All Through the House
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house...
Not a creature is stirring in this tiny wool felt house, and if you look behind the functional door there's a sparkly Christmas tree all decorated and waiting for St Nicholas to appear. This ornament pattern also comes with a gingerbread house option featuring a tiny surprise Santa inside.

Pattern No. 3: Little Elves
Here are two more beloved North Pole citizens we are picking up as we make our way towards the actual lines of the poem. You can bet these little helpers have been busy all year making everything ready for the night before Christmas. I hope you've been good. He's got a naughty/nice list! 

Pattern No. 2: Mrs. Claus
She's not mentioned in Mr. Moore's poem, to be sure, but we all know that for every magical Christmas Eve there's usually a busy woman (coffee in hand) making sure everything's just so. (Can I get an amen from all my fellow Mrs. Clauses?)

Pattern No. 1: Santa Claus
The right jolly old elf himself, who pauses to wink at you while filling your stocking with good things.

Explore what mmmakers are posting on Instagram:

THIS PATTERN SERIES IS ONGOING! 
More patterns are to come in this series each year until it's completed. Each new pattern will be released as soon as I complete it, and I will post about it on all my channels anytime that happens. The best way to keep current is to follow me on my IG or FB pages and check my blog for new posts. I always link to new posts on IG and FB.


WHEN WILL THE SERIES BE COMPLETED? I project one or two patterns released each year until completion. (I've had to recently scale back my expectations on this because of my chronic back problems, alas.) As I am a part time designer, my maximum working capacity is 2-4 new patterns per year, but I'll be working on another different series in tandem with this one. If there are more that are completed, I'll gladly release them! I have to work with limited time. Don't we all! Thanks so much for your excitement and enthusiasm! I really appreciate it. It keeps me going.
  • Total number of patterns in the series: NINE! I previously projected six, but I just can't get it done properly with six ornaments. I hope that is OK with everyone!
  • Average size of the finished ornaments: About 4 x 5 inches (10 x 13 cm) Of course, it varies because the shapes vary, but that will give you an idea.

WHERE TO BUY THE PATTERNS: You can purchase the 'Twas the Night Ornament PDFs exclusively from my Etsy shop and download them at your convenience. Your pattern download links do not expire:


PLEASE NOTE: International VAT and/or other applicable taxes will be added on at checkout according to your nation's tax law. 

BENZIE DESIGN 'TWAS THE NIGHT FELT PALETTES AND KITS: If choosing colors and gathering materials for a project is not your favorite thing, then worry no more! I have personally curated two palettes of lovely Benzie Design wool blend felt, DMC floss, sequins and beads for this series so that you can order handy materials kits from their Etsy shop (they'd love to help you!). You can choose from a few options to customize your kit. All the samples you've seen on my blog are made from those two palettes, so just follow my color guides to create beautiful results. Note: the Benzie Design kits do not include my patterns. My patterns can be purchased here.

The Retro and Classic palettes are just a starting point! Feel free to choose your own color combinations to match your own vision or Christmas decor! Benzie Design offers 90 beautiful colors of wool-blend felt.

L to R clockwise: Classic palette, notions bundle, beads/sequins bundle, Retro palette w matching floss. Images courtesy of Benzie Design.

FREQUENTLY WONDERED QUERIES:

Q: HOW DO I FIND MY PATTERN DOWNLOAD?
Etsy sends automatic email receipts with download links to your account email address. Check your spam folder if it's missing. Lost the email? Your patterns are also backed up under your Etsy account, and can be found by logging in with a browser and checking your purchases. NOTE: Etsy also allows guest checkouts, but the only way to access guest purchases is through your email receipt. Guest purchases will not show in your Etsy account unless you link them. It's easy.

Q: I DON'T HAVE A PRINTER. DO I NEED ONE?
In short, yes, at least for the pattern pages themselves to print on regular paper, and also to print or copy the pattern pages to the Sulky stabilizer. Once you have a master set of pattern pages on regular paper, keep 'em handy. Then you can use a copier. Suggestions:
  • Perhaps you have a friend/son/daughter/life coach/tolerant neighbor that has a printer you can borrow?
  • Perhaps you work somewhere that will allow you to print a few personal pages?
  • Libraries and churches often have copiers and printers you may use and may charge per page.
  • Note: office supply stores will not print my patterns without checking with me first because my patterns are copyrighted.

Q: I'M IN THE US. WHERE DO I BUY THE MATERIALS like felt, stabilizer, sequins, and other stuff needed?
I have lists of US sources for materials in the back of all my patterns. Also Benzie Design is offering lovely kits to go with my detailed color guides that include most of what you need!   

Q: I'M OUTSIDE THE US. WHERE DO I BUY THE MATERIALS like felt, stabilizer and other stuff needed? 
I've compiled a short list of international wool felt vendors here, recommended to me by their customers. Also, Benzie Design gladly ships internationally.

Q: ARE THESE DIFFICULT TO MAKE?
Because of the small scale, these ornaments are not beginner projects, but they are easier than you think! If you are familiar with hand sewing and can 1) sew basic stitches neatly (running stitch, backstitch, and whipstitch) and 2) cut and assemble small pieces with precision, then you can make these ornaments and make them well. Why? Because of a magical Sulky stabilizer called Stick 'N Stitch. If you use the stabilizer, there is no tedious pattern tracing or embroidery transferring involved. You simply use a printer or copier to print my patterns to the stabilizer, peel off the backing, adhere it directly to the wool felt, and then stitch right on the lines. You can read more about that process here. In addition to the stabilizer advantage, you'll find my patterns are chock-full of very clear instructions and detailed diagrams to guide you through each and every step.


ERRATA AND UPDATES:
04/01/21 The Little Elves pattern was updated with a minor change. See this post! 
01/26/22 The Santa Claus pattern was updated with a minor change. See this post!

NEED SOME ADDITIONAL HELP?
If you read my reviews on Etsy, you'll often see comments about how thorough and detailed the instructions in my patterns are. Purchasing my patterns is more akin to purchasing a craft class, and I include lots of tips and tricks within the instructions. However, click the graphic below for additional methods I have posted about that will help you perfect your techniques:


SHARE YOUR PHOTOS! Use the tag #twasthenightornaments on Instagram and Facebook. If you search that tag on Instagram you can view ornaments that others have made! Be sure to tag me with @mmmcrafts on IG. Note: Please do not share images or video of my actual pattern pages.

VIEW EVERY 'TWAS THE NIGHT BLOG POST: If you'd like to read and see more photos of all the patterns and prototypes, click here for a chronological sorting of all my blog posts.

PINTEREST BOARD: A handy way to view lots of my 'Twas the Night ornament samples in one place.

ARE YOU HAVING TROUBLE with washing away the Sulky stabilizer? Does it still feel gummy/sticky no matter how many times you soak it? There is a batch of faulty stabilizer out there. Please read this post!

I hope this resource page has been helpful to you! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via my Etsy shop! That is the quickest way to get an answer. You can also message me on my Facebook page or Instagram. (Note: Blog comments are not the quickest option if you have a question.) Merry sewing! :-)

32 comments:

  1. Thanks so much, Karen! All glory to God on that score. I'm so happy you like the pattern! Happy sewing! Love to see what you make.

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  2. Hi Larissa! I am so excited for another series from you! I loved making my first set of 12 days and have a second set underway. But Santa has to sneak in! I can't resist. Would love to hear what the other ideas are for the 'Twas the Night series! Thank you!

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    1. Hi, Patty! Wow, thanks so much! I'm excited too! I'm very happy you enjoyed the first series. I'll be updating on the Twas the Night series soon but I can tell you the next in line is Mrs Claus :-)

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  3. I'm so excited about this new series!! I'm halfway through making 2 sets of 12 days. So, I need to ignore that Santa is a thing. For now.... ;)

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    1. Hey KajaGeGe, thanks so much! haha! I'm so happy you are enjoying the Twelve Days patterns. No worries, 'Twas the Night will be here whenever you are ready to jump in. No hurry.

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  4. Hi Larissa, I have previously made 3 sets of the 12 Days of Christmas. Now it's Santa time. I am having trouble with Santa's arms. The 6 inch pipe cleaner seems way to long. Is this the correct measurement for the arms? Thank you for your beautiful patterns and for your help
    Robyn, Australia

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    1. Hi, Robyn! It's probably more efficient to contact me on mmmcrafts.etsy.com with pattern questions, just for future reference! :-) Yes, the 6 inch pipe cleaner is correct. Curve it to match the arms with 1/8 inch in between and at least 1/2 inch hanging off both ends. You'll end up with some excess hanging off that you'll trim. :-)

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  5. Only two patterns per year?


    You are KILLING me.

    It will take me a little while to finish my numerous sets of 12 Days, but golly - it's going to be so hard to wait. You've got me HOOKED.

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    1. Yes, I plan to develop four patterns a year, but two of those will be for a different series -- think Charles Dickens. :-) I'm so sorry- I'm working at maximum capacity as a part time designer. I love designing these so MUCH, and wish there were more time in the day! I hope you enjoy sewing your Twelve Days ornaments. Drag it out a bit, if you can. LOL. Mrs Claus is coming soon, just FYI...

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  6. I have made two sets of the twelve days of Christmas. I may be making 3 more. When you have this new set done, I would be interested in purchasing the patterns.

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    1. Thank you, sewpenny! :-) I'm so glad you are enjoying the Twelve Days series. Happy sewing!

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  7. On your Instagram page there is a photo of Santa with two elves. Are they of your design or someone else’s? They are really cute.

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    1. Hello, Arvada Lady! It doesn't sound familiar. Do you have a link? Thanks!

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    2. I sent a reply via messenger since I don’t know how to post the photo here.

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  8. Hi Larissa,
    I have made a bunch of your patterns and just love them. My kids get a 12 Day ornament for Christmas each year...this year they are getting the French Hen. Thanks to quarentine, it's already finished! ha My dear friend will be getting Mrs. Claus in the mail this week. Thanks for your part in so many happy memories here.
    Anyway - on to my question...I think I remember you writing about what kind of pens you use to draw on the little faces and hair, but I've done a bit of hide & seek, and can't seem to find them. If you don't mind, could you remind me where that post is? Thanks!

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    1. Hey Tonja! 2020 sure provided lots of folks with plenty of time at home to sew! I'm so happy you've been enjoying the patterns, and what lucky kids to be getting handmade gifts. *high fives* Congrats on finishing early. Wish I could say the same. I'm not sure I have a post about pens, but I do have lots of tips in the patterns themselves. I really need to do a post for faces. In the meantime, I like using good gel pens (Gelly Rolls) and fine point permanent fabric markers on hardwood unfinished beads. Soft wood beads tend to bleed a lot, so watch out for those. Usually those are very light colored and have no visible grain. Good colored pencils (like Prismacolor) do well for cheeks or even for the faces if you find the pens too bleedy. :-)

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  9. For the first time in many ornaments, I am having trouble the Solvy printed fabric bleeding into my embroidery! I recall that you said something about using a printer with toner, does that mean a laser printer?I can't afford to buy one if that's the case. Do you have any suggestions? Im a full time RVer and places like Staples and Office Max or Depot refuse to print on Solvy stabilizer print sheets. They say the heat will mess up their printer systems. Use darker floss? I mostly notice it with light blue and white floss. I recently had to go to a lighter smaller HP printer and maybe the ink is not as good. sigh....

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    1. Yes, a laser printer or a copier uses toner. Sorry about the ink bleed! It's probably because your new printer uses different ink. Maybe your church or library has a copier you can use. (I've been using the stabilizer in our copier/printer at home for a long time with many many sheets, and it has never harmed the copier.) Otherwise, maybe try a tiny tiny bit of diluted soap in the water and see if that will help rinse out the ink. Good luck! :-)

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    2. I actually bought a small laser printer specifically for patterns. Both these, and sewing patterns. I was blowing through so much ink with .pdfs, I did the math and it just made more sense. Check Amazon for some super deals on little black and white laser printers!

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  10. I found if you generously wax your thread, it will not get stained by the printer ink. My first batch was stained, but after I tried the wax, it's nice and white!

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  11. Hi. Have you tried Pellon 2301S Print-Stitch-Dissolve Stabilizer? Is it just as good as Sulky Stick n Stitch?

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    1. Hey, Kim! No, I haven't tried that brand, however I have heard from one person who didn't like it as well? Feel free to check it out! :-)

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  12. Hi Larissa, I love your patterns and your sense of color and design. Can't wait to start on the 12 days patterns I purchased a while back (life gets in the way, right?) I was just wondering if you've ever considered creating a nativity set? I would love to see what that would look like coming from you. Best wishes.

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    1. Hey Debbie! How kind, thanks very much. No judging about procraftination. I do that on a regular basis. Check the FAQ for my answer to your Nativity question. :-)

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    2. Ahh. I'm not gonna lie and say I'm not disappointed, but I get that. :)

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  13. Elf ears?! Having trouble finding the right stuff.
    Card stock colors aren’t right, felt?
    Any suggestions?

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    1. Hey MargParg, if you can't find card stock I've seen some folks use felt for the ears. It's a little thicker but it works. :-)

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  14. Turns out the new grandbaby kinda looks like an elf. So my procraftination spell has broken. Heading into power elfing, that’s a word, right?
    Love love yr patterns.

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    1. Hey MargParg, Awwww congrats on your little elf baby! If elfing wasn't a word before, it is now. :-) Thanks!

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  15. Just finished the Ghost of Christmas Present. Love it as I have with all the previous creations. Congrats on another great pattern

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