Padded coat hangers with fragrant sachets offer both a sense of luxury and practical benefits for any wardrobe. These hangers are gentler on clothing than standard wire or plastic options, helping to prevent creases and marks, especially on delicate fabrics. Adding a fragrant sachet not only brings a pleasant scent to garments, but can also help deter moths and other pests when filled with suitable herbs. This project is easily customized in both appearance and fragrance, making it a thoughtful gift or a personal treat.
To make six padded coat hangers with matching sachets, the following materials are useful:
- Six wooden coat hangers, which provide a sturdy and reliable base.
- Half a yard of wadding, such as polyester batting or cotton quilt wadding, for a soft, cushioned layer.
- Half a yard of printed cotton fabric, chosen for breathability and decorative appeal.
- Two yards of half-inch wide ribbon, for covering the hanger hook and making bows.
- Matching cotton thread for sewing.
- Extra ribbon for additional bows, if desired.
- For the sachets, lace or extra ribbon may be used for hanging.
Begin by cutting a strip of wadding, 36 by 2 inches, for each hanger. Wind the wadding evenly around the wooden hanger to create a smooth, padded surface, and secure the ends with a few stitches. This padding helps prevent sharp edges from marking or stretching garments. Alternatives such as soft felt or clean, recycled fabric scraps may also be used.
To cover the metal hook, fold one inch of ribbon over at the end to hide raw edges, then wrap the rest of the ribbon tightly down the length of the hook. This step adds a decorative touch and helps prevent the hook from snagging delicate fabrics. Secure the ribbon at the base of the hook with a few stitches and trim any excess. Velvet or satin ribbon, or even a narrow strip of lace, can be used for a more ornate look.
Next, cut a piece of fabric about four and three-quarter inches wide and slightly longer than the hanger. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together, and stitch across both short ends. Turn the casing right side out. To neaten the raw edges along the long sides, fold the seam allowance inward and press or tack it in place. Press a crease along the bottom edge to help with assembly. Cotton is recommended for ease of handling, but linen or lightweight blends can also be used.
Insert the padded hanger into the fabric casing, aligning the open edges along the top. Pin the fabric in place to prevent shifting. Use a running stitch to join the seam edges along the top, leaving the thread loose at each end. Repeat this process along the bottom crease. Gently pull the loose threads at both ends to gather the fabric evenly, then secure the threads. This gathered effect ensures a snug fit and adds a charming, ruched appearance. Reinforcing the gathers with a few extra stitches can improve durability.
To finish, decorate the hanger with a bow made from your chosen ribbon. Large bows create a statement, while smaller ones offer a subtle accent. Using the same ribbon as on the hook creates a coordinated look, but mixing and matching is also an option.
For the matching sachet, sew a small fabric pouch, fill it with potpourri or moth-repellent herbs, and close it securely. Lavender, cedar chips, or a blend of dried flowers and spices are popular choices for fragrance and protection. The sachet can be attached to the hanger hook with a length of ribbon or lace.
Essential oil-infused cotton balls may be used inside the sachet for a longer-lasting scent. It is important to ensure sachets are securely closed to prevent spillage.
To care for padded hangers and sachets, spot clean the fabric as needed and refresh the sachet contents regularly for continued fragrance and protection.
