Bzzz Goes The Bee!! (part 3 - memory pillow)

I have a "create" list that I'm finally making a start on, mostly because I finally decided to write it down instead of trying to keep it in my head.  I've made a good start on it this past week, which is good because it can make up for all those days of non-motivation! This pretty embroidered memory pillow comes from my personal & business list (yes, I have 2 lists; I blame the Virgo in me).

That being said, my Virgo self didn't mind making this "on-the-fly" without a whole mess of measurements and thought.  Basically, I measured another pillow cover I have and away I went to patching.  I was so excited to finish the patchwork to get to the embroidery, which is something I haven't done for years!  Here's the material lowdown for anyone that is interested:  patchwork was done using 5 different high quality pink and vibrant cottons, the embroidery patch and the back are an upcycled curtain, also cotton, and the embroidery is done using DMC cotton floss.

I love making things that beautify or are practical for my own home that will ALSO work as an item to sell on my facebook fan page or etsy/folksy.  Needless to say, I'm accepting orders on facebook for this latest creation of mine.  Can you tell how swollen with pride I am? ;-)

I am so proud in fact, that I'm going to add this to a link party.  This is my first time joining a link party, so if I've done it wrong, please correct me!  If I've managed to do it correctly, then woohoo!!

Bzzz Goes The Bee!! (part 2 - coasters)

First off, welcome to our new followers!!  *wave*

In May, when I decided to integrate sewing for fun and sewing for profit, the first things I decided to make were placemats.  I hoped to add matching coasters to the mix, so I've started working on a "pattern".  I'm the type of person that does a lot of trial and error when creating, and my coasters are no different!  Let me tell you, the 1st coaster I made was definitely the error.  This picture shows it in even worse shape because it's been well used by Big S and in need of a wash.

I used a diagonal pattern for the quilting, but it just ended up making it too thin in the center intersection, and really, when you're making a coaster, you want at least a little bit of thickness.  Also, mitered corners are IMPOSSIBLE for me on such a small working space.  Lastly, I tried to do a fancy stitch to secure the binding to the front and there was just too much fabric to go through for a decorative stitch.

The next version kept the diagonal quilting, but changed shapes from square to round, thus removing an obstacle from my coaster happiness.  The 3rd and final version is the one I'm happiest with and I fortunately have 2 of these.  This was my 1st attempt at freehand quilting.  If you have ever considered using a freehand quilt foot, DO IT!!  It's a total blast!!  I simply drew on the swirly pattern that I wanted to try out, turned off the feed dogs on the machine, and got started!  It's not perfect, because it requires a fair bit of practice to have even and fluid stitches, but I'm so pleased with the outcome:  a unique quilting design and nice puffy quilting to cushion our lovely cups of tea.

So, in general, I have my pattern/plan established for future matching coasters.  The only change that I intend to make is creating a slightly larger circle so that more fabric peeks out from underneath your cuppa.  I'm strongly thinking of making my 1st tutorial to cover making these coasters, so any input or requests are always welcome.

Go go, be crafty!  Be well and have fun!  ~Cecily

Bzzz Goes The Bee!! (and other zippy matters)

I haven’t made much time for blogging recently, or facebook for that matter (gasp!) because I’ve been trying to be productive with the sewing machine and finish up some projects that I’ve had going.  I’ve also been busy with Little S, as well as Big S who has been down with a nasty virus for nearly 2 months (don’t worry, he’s on the mend after 2 days in the hospital having nearly every test under the sun done).

My mom started teaching me how to sew when I was about 8 years old.  I used to help her make our Renaissance costumes and the 1^st things I was allowed to sew were the straight seams on circle skirts.  I then graduated to rolled hems and I was absolutely thrilled with this new responsibility.  My mom showed me everything she knew how to do…but she didn’t really “do” zippers.  1^st off, zippers weren’t period, but I can remember my mom slaving away at the sewing machine using curse words that, to this day, I don’t believe exist…all over a silly zipper.  As a result, I’ve ALWAYS had an aversion to zippers.  I’ve considered trying to conquer them from time to time, but would change my mind when I walked past them in the store and heard them laughing and mocking me.  WELL, I have finally done it; I have befriended the zipper.  I can hear them cheering me on now as I pass their little display unit in the store.  If you are like I was, and have a hate-hate relationship with zippers, please have a look at the tutorial that rescued me and be sure to let me know how it works out for you.  For my zippy pouch, I chose to use a fabric with metallic flecks that reminds me of the ocean.  It is lined with an upcycled pair of boxer shorts (yes, I washed them 1^st).

That’s all I have time for tonight, but I have a few more projects to share with you, so stay tuned to this space!  As always, be good and have fun!