How to Customize Bedding

Launder and, if necessary, iron your pillow cases, shams and sheets.

Measure the width of each sheet that you are adding the ric-rac or ribbon to. For each pillowcase, measure around the open end on both sides of the case. Add these measurements together, add an extra 6 inches, and purchase the ric-rac or ribbon.

Cut the ribbon to the width of the sheet plus 1 inch. Lay the ribbon across the cuff of the top of the sheet with 1/2 inch overlapping at either end.

Baste or pin the ribbon to the sheet just above the cuff seam. Turn the ends of the ribbon to the back side of the sheet and baste it there.

Sew the ribbon to the sheet, using a medium-length stitch on the sewing machine. Alternatively, hand sew the ribbon. If you're using ric-rac, sew down the center of the trim using a longer stitch.

Baste the ribbon or ric-rac to the outside of the pillow cases around the open end, close to the cuff seam. overlap the ends for 1/4 inch. Machine stitch or hand sew the trim in place.

Decide where on the bedding to place the monograms. The edges of pillow cases, the turned-down part of a sheet or separate pillow shams are all suitable for monogramming.

Select the size and style of monogram patch to use. Small- to medium-sized monograms are suitable for pillow cases, while larger ones placed on shams have a dramatic effect.

Place the part of the bedding that you are monogramming on, on an ironing board. Remove the protective paper from the back of the monogram patch and place it on the bedding. Cover this with a damp pressing cloth and iron the patch to the bedding, using the hottest iron setting for the bedding material for 30 seconds. Turn the bedding over and press the patch from the other side.