Embroider a Hungarian Matyó Heart Ornament

The Matyó heart that hangs on
 my sister-in-law's tree.

      The Matyó embroidered heart is still popular in the decorative textile arts of Hungry and a perfect traditional ornament addition to any Eastern European Christmas tree.

Supply List:

• a variety of embroidery floss in many colors
• large embroidery needle
• white or ivory felt
• needle and white thread to match the felt color
• cotton batting stuffing
• scissors
• a soft lead pencil or a washable marker

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut two identical heart shapes from felt or wool. Set one of the aside for the back. You may choose to keep this one blank or to embroider it as well so that the ornament may be seen from either side if you like.
2. Use a soft pencil to draw your floral image directly onto the felt. You could use a washable marker for this if you prefer.
3. Thread your embroidery needle and proceed to fill in stitches till the flower motifs look complete.
4. Now pin the right sides of the heart facing each inside and sew a straight seam around the hearts leaving a small one inch hole.
5. Turn the felt heart inside out and stuff it with cotton batting.
6. Use an invisible stitch to close the hole.
7. Attach a ribbon or gold twine for hanging the ornament from the Christmas tree.

More traditional Hungarian designs for embroidery.

More Related Content:

• We (heart) old world Hungary holiday traditions 
• Heartfelt and Simply Lovely
• Folk heart
• Embellished Matyo in Pinks and Reds
• Embellished, Beaded Hearts by Beedeebabee

Christmas in Budapest