Memory Envelope by Peg Eldredge in Georgia...
Memory Envelopes are keepsakes given to the grieving family after the loss of their baby. Hospitals tuck inside the clothing that the baby had worn, the memory blanket the mother had held the baby in, a photograph of the baby, the birth certificate or even a lock of the baby’s hair.
1. Cut a piece of fashion fabric and a piece of lining (can be the same or different) 14” x 24”. Also, cut a lightweight interfacing or cotton batting the same size- fusible or sewn in. Sew or iron the interfacing to the wrong side of the lining. If sewn, use 3/8” seam around the entire lining
2. Right sides together, pin the lining to the fashion fabric all around. Sew together almost all the way around, leaving a 4 inch opening to turn right side out. Clip the corners.
3. Turn the whole thing right side out. Press, squaring corners and folding under the raw edges of opening. Top stitch 1/8 inch from edge along one short end. Fold this end up 9 inches, lining inside, fashion fabric outside, to create the envelope pocket. Pin in place. Stitch 1/8 “ from edge, starting at fold, going up the envelope side, across top (which will be envelope flap) and down to bottom fold.
4. Add embellishments to envelope flap if desired – Lace, appliqué, embroidery, buttons, etc.
5. Cut a one yard piece of ¼” or wider ribbon and attach** (by hand or machine) to the outside of the flap, centering it close ( 1 – 1 ½ inches) to the short edge. **Position ribbon by tying a bow and pinning onto flap; one end should be much longer than the other when attached. (Optional: fray-check the ends of the ribbon.) Wrap ribbon around the envelope and finish with a loosely tied bow.
December 2002, Peg Eldredge, Sugar Hill GA Chapter
The construction and fabric should be of the highest quality, as it will be a long treasured keepsake to remind the parents of the tiny angel they lost. Suggested colors are white and ivory, with pastel or pastel baby print lining. Some prefer a color exterior, with a neutral lining. Suitable fabrics include weavers cloth, linen-look, satin, and fine cottons. The flap may be closed with either Velcro or a wrap-around ribbon, which is more decorative and versatile.
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