Discover how to sew a velvet pomegranate ornament featuring a cut-open segment full of seed beads for a realistic look.
If you’re anything like me, there’s something irresistible about creating fruit and veg out of fabric, especially when it’s luxurious velvet! This time, I’ve taken a shine to the pomegranate, turning it into a beautiful handmade ornament with a twist. Literally!
Not only does this velvet fruit have all the squishy texture you’d expect, but it also has a surprise: a cut-open section full of red seed beads representing the juicy seeds inside. It’s a lovely combination of craft and nature, with sparkle thrown in!
I’ve previously dabbled in velvet with creations like my beetroot brooch and my ever-popular cut-open figs, but this pomegranate might be my new favourite. It’s made in the same way as my poppy seed heads (which were a hit!) but with a fruity twist. Plus, a super simple template is included to make things even easier.
I’ve got step-by-step instructions to guide you through making your own, whether you want to add it to your Christmas tree or use it as a cute year-round decoration. So, gather your velvet fabric scraps and get sewing—this project will be juicy! And don’t forget to check out some of my other velvet creations for more inspiration.
Materials Needed
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- Velvet fabric (in pomegranate red) – The velvet fabric I used had a natural colour on the reverse side, which allowed me to use both sides for this project. However, if your red velvet scraps have a different backing, you can use some neutral fabric scraps for the beaded section of the craft.
- Mixed red seed beads
- Needle and thread
- Craft stuffing – I use the stuffing from old pillows
- Scissors
- Hi-tack trim glue
- Free template (click here to download)
How to Make A Velvet Pomegranate
The pomegranate comprises eight identical segments, two of which are reversed.
Step 1: Prepare Your Template Download the free template I’ve provided and cut it out. Draw around the template on the reverse of velvet fabric pieces. You’ll need eight segments for the pomegranate body, but two will be reversed for the cut-open segment. You can cut two from a neutral-coloured fabric if your red velvet fabric has no neutral back.
Step 2: Pin two of the segments, red velvet sides, together and sew them up to the line (on the pattern), leaving the top pointy bit open. This can be sewn on the machine or by hand.
Step 3: Sew another red velvet piece to the two segments’ right sides together. Then sew a fourth, flipping this segment over to face the other way (or use a neutral fabric piece).
Step 4: Repeat steps 2 and 3 so you have two halves of the pomegranate
Step 4: Sew the two pomegranate halves together, joining at the two reverse (neutral) segments. Then, cut the points off the two odd (reversed) segments.
Step 5: Add the Seed Beads. Turn the pomegranate shell the right side out, through the hole at the top. Then, cover the open (neutral segment) with trim glue and red seed beads. Don’t worry about perfection here—organic, irregular placement makes it look more natural. Leave the glue to dry.
Step 6: Stuff the pomegranate through the hole in the top with craft stuffing until it is plump. The seeded part of the pomegranate will be stiff, so push it in so it looks like a cut segment. Secure it in place with a stitch at the top and the bottom.
Step 7: Close the top of the pomegranate with a simple running stitch. If you plan to use it as a Christmas ornament, you can add a loop for hanging.
And there you have it—a velvet pomegranate with a charmingly cut-open section full of beaded seeds! It’s perfect for a Christmas craft to sell or as a unique handmade gift.
If you like fruity-themed crafts, check out the fabric pear doorstop I made. For more velvet creations, check out my gorgeous velvet mushrooms.
