DIRECTIONS TO MAKE HANDKERCHIEF BONNET This beauty starts with a fine antique Victorian handkerchief that has been newly washed and ironed. STEP 1. Fold over one end of the handkerchief approximately 1/4", pin and press the edge . Do not press over the pins. Use a clean white cloth over the handkerchief when ironing for protection. Make a running stitch using white embroidery thread across forming a casing . STEP 2. Using 18" of fine blue satin ribbon . Knot the end and attach the smallest safety pin to it which guides the ribbon through and out the other end. Remove pin and leave to tie and gather . This is the back of the bonnet. STEP 3. Now working on the front end measure 3 1/2" and fold up , pin and press . Then fold forward in an accordian effect making the delicate lace edge overlap the fold underneath . This accents the lace framing the baby's face ! Carefully press in place . STEP 4. Working on the bonnet front . Lifting up a corner make a triangle fold with the top layer . Tack with a couple of stitches in an X just to hold in place . Do the same on the other side . STEP 5. MAKING THE RIBBON TIES Because of using a vintage handkerchief all embellishments used are also vintage . Measure the satin ribbon 2 at 18" in length . Fold under 1/2" stitch making a shirred effect where you will place the decorative trim . Place one on each side , pin and stitch in place . Ribbon / Lace rosebuds look great too ! Used on this bonnet are old ribbon embellishments with french knots in the centers . Originally they were from an antique quilt. Pin ties on each side of the bonnet front and tack in place . STEP 6. Draw the ends of the fine blue ribbon together gathering at the back of the bonnet and make a secure bow . This can be adjusted to the size needed for baby's head . | 
