Monday, October 18, 2010

More napkins


I've been working on more ric rac edged napkins. Here's a set made from Moda's Odyssea collection in the red coral Poseidon print.

Felties and Pumpkins


I purchased this book at Jo-Ann Fabrics with a 50% off coupon the other day. I knew my boy would like some of these cute critters. I had been wanting to check out Gossamer for quite a while but hadn't gotten there. Now I had an excuse -- wool felt to make some of these guys. Above is my first attempt -- the samurai cat.

I didn't get as many of the details stitched onto the sleeves and belt because my son wanted it done asap. Next time I'd like to do a better job stitching the head onto the body too. Next up will be the alien, chihuahua, and the mummy cat.

The little pumpkin pincushion next to the samurai cat is from a free tutorial by Ellen of The Long Thread available here. It's super easy and the pattern includes two sizes. I think it would be fun to make a ton of these guys in a flurry of fabrics and group them all together.


Thursday, October 14, 2010

Creating this Week



After some unsuccessful sewing projects last week, things have gotten better by sticking with the tried and true as I ease back into crafting now that the school year is underway

  • Ric Rac Trimmed Lunchbox Napkins -- these have been a big hit when I've sold them for school craft sales.

  • Zippered Pouches -- I just enjoy making these. I'm looking forward to adding iron-on vinyl to the insides to make them better for cosmetics.

Thriving Village

I'm excited to see that Multnomah Village, which I drive through everyday on our way to school, seems to be thriving with unique shops. A recent addition is The Jealous Gardener, a transplant from Eastmoreland, featuring garden-related gifts and home decor. Also intriguing is the November 5th opening of Knack, a gallery showcasing local artists. Can't wait for that. We so need this kind of thing in southwest Portland. If you're in the Village, also check out the Switch stores -- shoes and clothing and Anne Bocci, who has a great selection of art, clothing and accessories. Lastly, something seems to be happening at Indigo Traders' old location now that they have moved across the street. The windows are papered but there seems to be some painting going on inside.