Felt Basics

Cutting the felt: Pattern pieces can be cut out and pinned onto corresponding felt colors. Cutting quantities are also on each pattern piece. On smaller pieces, I find it easier to hold the pattern pieces while cutting instead of pinning.
Floss: When stitching your kit, you'll want to use 3 strands of floss. The floss in your kit is six strand floss. Cut the floss to approximately 18” for stitching. This length prevents the frustration of knots and tangles that can happen with longer lengths. Separate the floss into the desired number of strands by pulling them apart. Thread the needle and tie a knot at one end.  
Sewing: All pieces are sewn with 3 strands of floss unless noted in the instructions. I use and recommend the whip stitch to sew this felt project. See instructions below for guidance using the whip stitch, straight stitch, and French knots.

 

Step by Step

If you need any help with the steps in this pattern, here are a few extra photos of the steps to give you a closer look. 

 

Fun Facts

•Paint horses have been recorded in Europe since 500 A.D. They became popular in Spain and made their way to the Americas with the Spanish Conquistadors in the 1500s.
When the Conquistadors migrated away from an area, they frequently left horses behind. Either intentionally or they escaped. These horses roamed free and eventually became part of the wild mustang herds.
•From the wild mustang herds, Native Americans domesticated the animals. The Paint was desired because of the uniqueness of its coat, pleasant disposition, and athletic ability. The leaders of the tribe would often ride a Paint.
•Paint Horses can come in any combination of white and other equine colors, such as chestnut, dun, grulla, brown, bay, black, sorrel, palomino, buckskin, gray, or roan. Like a snowflake, no two paint patterns are precisely the same.
•The American Paint Horse Association officially sanctioned Paint horse racing in 1966. Since that time, Paints have proven to be one of the fastest breeds on the track. It’s rumored that an American Paint Horse reached the amazing speed of 55 mph, matching the top speed of any horse.
Don't have the American Paint Horse kit yet? You can buy it here!