pattern
Showing posts with label pattern. Show all posts
vintage sewing set ~ scissor fob
A satisfying and useful little make, combining things I love and using up what I have - this scissor fob is keeping my scissors safe!
I have been so enjoying a lot of hand stitching time recently and my cross stitch obsession is growing. Counted cross stitch is so relaxing, I have to concentrate enough so that my mind is not engulfed in worries or to do lists (as it often is) and the patterns mean that even though you are repeating the same stitch over and over it doesn't get boring. Also you can create little projects like this one or work on much bigger pieces, so there's variety. The rabbit hole that is FlossTube (search flosstube on YouTube) led me to discover the website Tiny Modernist Cross Stitch and I fell in love with the Vintage Red Sewing Set pattern. I will stitch the pincushion at some point but as I kept loosing my scissors down the side of the sofa, I bought the pattern to make the scissor fob.
Stitched on an offcut of linen from my current big cross stitch project (Modern Folk Embroidery SAL), it was a quick stitch and I spent some time thinking about how to finish it off. I know a lot of people use the little glass seed beads beads but I don't have any and didn't want to buy anything new. I searched though my boxes of stuff and found these wooden beads from AGES ago - my mum has saved them from when I was a teenager (I was obsessed with the bead shop in Affleck's Palace and the bead shop in The Lanes in Brighton, where we spent holidays). She had given me a bag of beads and these wooden ones are such nice colours.
life is short you're capable
I made a thing! The original plan was for this to be a pincushion but I like it too much to stick pins in it, so it's a decorative little pillow. I like just having it around, a nice reminder and message to myself.
I designed this embroidery pattern as a companion to my You're Capable cushion/mini quilt pattern, which was inspired by Gwen Stefani lyrics and created to give empowerment.
It was a quick stitch, using couching with double strands and a single stand, and 3 strands for the back stitch with Aurifloss in # ???. It was complete chance that the dot of the fabric fit perfectly in the tail end of the Y but it does make me smile.
The fabric is Double Dots, Black & White by Cotton + Steel 2017. I fused Shape Flex SF101 to the back of the fabric before stitching. It is easily my favourite interfacing, it gives stability without stiffness and it fuses so nicely. I find myself using it often with different projects and it's perfect for this kind of thing.
I am lacking in trimmings stash and though I do love pom poms, I wanted to try something a bit different and used a THIN ribbon for edging. I had to carefully baste it in place because there was a risk of loosing it completely in the seam allowance, thankfully though it worked out and I love the extra pop of pink on the edges.
Then I added handmade tassels because why not add corner pizzazz too?!
Since I'm on a kick of using my hoarded stash fabrics, I couldn't resist using the fabulous telephone print on the back - ok, this officially makes it double sided!!
Telephones, Trinket by Melody Miller.
It's pretty and squishy and I will certainly be using ribbon this way again because it was fun to sew.
If you'd like to stitch this message, you'll find the embroidery template as part of the You're Capable pattern available in my shop!
horseplay
Today I'm sharing another project that ignited my creativity, reinforced my style and encouraged me to push my skills. I am so happy with this finished table runner, which now sits pride of place on top of my fabric cupboard (no longer covered in mess!).
I created this runner in the summer as part of the #justjudecollaborates series of makes organised by Judith Hollies. It's actually made using the Horseplay cushion pattern by talented designer Kerry Foster of PennyDog Patchwork.
The fabric pull took a long time. I really liked the fabrics Kerry used in her original version. It was a struggle finding a print combination that would work, and having decided that it would ultimately live in our dining room/my sewing space, I wanted it to not be too fussy. I picked out some pastel solids but then added in more deeper jewel tones of mustard, blue, turquoise and raspberry. Now if you told me that list I wouldn't be convinced it would work but somehow combined with the pastels it looked pretty. Thinking it may be too flat, some pastel prints were added in the mix and I hit on a combination I really love.
The darker print that Kerry used in her cushion adds such depth to the pattern so I knew there had to be some contrast. I tried a dark solid grey but again it was too flat with the other solids. Then I unearthed one of my favourite Karen Lewis prints from my stash, Trellis in Coal from Blueberry Park, and may have squealed! (I must ask Karen if there's a chance Trellis could be re-released!)
Of course the grid pattern of the print wouldn't stay perfectly symmetrical as some pieces of the pattern are curves, but the intersections look like sparkles and it fit so well with the theme I was going for.
dotti denim pouch
More making adventures with #justjudecollaborates! This past week we have been making Judith's pattern, the Dotti Denim Pouch. Of course from the name you can tell that the original design was made using denim, I do have some regular denim but I decided to use a fun mix of fabrics and some printed lightweight Japanese denim.
This pouch is for me so there were no worries about whether someone else would like the fabric and this is the result of my stash dive - the brown papercuts print and white text one I hadn't yet used so it was fun cutting into them. The pieces in the pattern are a good size so you could totally use bigger scale prints for this pouch.
I got carried away and didn't take many progress pictures, just enjoyed the process of making! The pattern is so well written, Judith gives plenty of tips throughout, which I really appreciate.
Lola pouch ~ collaboration
My sewjo seems to take a wander every now and again. Like anything, occasionally the motivation eludes you. Sometimes you have to ride it out and wait for inspiration to spur you into action. Oftentimes I will start with a smaller make, a pouch or cushion to incite my creativity and make a finished project for that sense of achievement.
I was thrilled to be asked to join Judith Hollies for her #justjudecollaborates over on instagram. Along with Judith, myself, Svetlana Sotak, Stuart Hillard and Kerry Foster will be making each other patterns to create finished projects throughout July. You are welcome to follow along each week and make with us! You can find out details about which patterns we are making on Judith's post here. Follow along on instagram for the details and reveals each week.
Our first project was the Lola pouch by Svetlana Sotak. Her shop SotakCo on Etsy is full of gorgeous bag and pouch patterns. I have followed her blog for a long time and have made a couple of her patterns, the Lola pouch is one of my favourites - you can see other versions of the pouch that I have made here.
I excitedly got to picking out fabrics from my stash, knowing this pouch was going to be gifted to my friend Michelle I wanted to chose fabrics she would like as well as picking a combination I was happy about. It's always a factor for most makers I assume but texture has become something I focus on more and more. Rather than use all quilting cottons I wanted to give each part a slightly different feel.
╳ you need to calm down ╳
I do always like to try something different and have found myself more drawn to incorporating vintage fabrics and re-purposing fabrics. Partly so that I can create something completely unique and also to use what already exists. I happened to discover a unique find that worked perfectly for this months Aurifil Artisan challenge! I've created a cross stitch piece using vintage lettering and a second hand embroidered cloth... yet it still has a modern flair!
While I was at Stitched Up my eagle fabric spying eyes were drawn to a dainty and beautiful cloth. Amongst a variety of left-over bits and fabric scraps that were being used to create peace banners; there was this piece of white cloth with intricate detail, floral appliqué, embroidery and weaving. I believe it is a small table cover or tray cloth.
hugs not thugs 🞤 free template
Gathering together to sew in company is really quite special. It can be lonely and a bit boring sometimes sewing at home by yourself. While that quiet time is still vital for my sanity, recently I have been much more open to getting out and taking part in sewing groups. Partly because I have more time in the evening now, also my anxiety is manageable, it feels nice to be sociable and join in. Also real life is better.
Inspiring Improv 🐠 Shoal
For some people the idea of improvised piecing is scary. The thought of stitching bits of fabric together with no pattern or precise measurements can be overwhelming. Others find it liberating and exciting. Honestly I probably find myself somewhere in the middle. Improv quilts look really cool but how do you do it?! No measuring, no rulers, no real idea of how it will turn out? That might feel unnerving but it's also a LOT of fun. Letting go of expectations a bit, relaxing the rules and creating something completely unique. Truthfully in a world where there is a lot of pressure, where social media presents ideals and things can sometimes become a little samey; improv is like a breath of fresh air.
A while ago I might have said it's not really for me, I've had a go and enjoyed it but it didn't click. Until now. Having seen Nicholas Ball's trunk show at the Sewcial Retreat I knew a bit about his techniques and was really inspired by his quilts. When he invited me to join his Inspiring Improv Book Tour I was delighted, intrigued to discover more about his process and learn. Nicholas' new book is full of the techniques he uses presented in a way that's fun to read. It's like he's talking to you as he shares the inspiration and stories behind the amazing quilts and has great tips that teach you how to create your own improv versions of his designs.
I chose to follow the Shoal pattern and make some fish. Above you can see Nicholas' quilt and how beautiful the photography is in the book.
My make is not a quilt but a cushion cover. As it's going to live with us I had to steer away from using blue because it wouldn't fit our decor (though fish mad Joan will probably steal it away to her room anyway!). I picked out background fabric while at Patchfinders recently, I could not resist the shot cotton. It's a mix of purple and mint, photos can not do it justice sadly. Because I can never restrain myself I also got the stripe, text and watercolour pink fabric too. I added another pop of bright colour with the yellow woven, Chartreuse Mariner Cloth by Alison Glass.
Once the fabric pull was made cutting could begin!
Spring Fling quilt
This pattern is now available in my shop as the Melody Quilt pattern - click HERE!
I'm so lucky that I get to have SO MUCH FUN creating designs with bright and beautiful fabric. For this quilt I picked out prints from Zuma by Tula Pink and a range of colours from Tula Pink solids. A classic block in the centre and medallion style borders made with a mix of regular machine piecing and foundation paper piecing, make for a modern and dynamic quilt. My Spring Fling quilt pattern is in Issue 71 of Love Patchwork & Quilting - out now!
The detail in the prints is just amazing, there's so many that I thought were nice but it was only when I started working with them that I noticed little subtle elements. One of my favourites is the Glitter Litter print with the dots and cute anchors, seahorses and stars thrown around like confetti.
stitching progress + epp giveaway!
**Giveaway now closed**
Those quiet moments in the evening, a few stitches on my lunch break, this pick up and put down project is slowly coming to life. It is a soothing, mindful way to relax and all the colours together look very peaceful and calming to me.
I knew that the Kindness & Fortitude: A Quaker Sampler from Modern Folk Embroidery was going to be the first project I started in 2019. It was no coincidence that my word for the year is FORTITUDE, I did chose this pattern partly for that reason but also because it appealed to me and there is that Quaker connection.
bonnie curves drawstring bag
Oh how I love sewing a little make all for myself! Especially when it's cute and useful!
The Bonnie Curves pattern by Laura Cunningham is really fun, with great advice for sewing curves and a tutorial for the most adorable drawstring bag.
I'm confident sewing curves, though Laura includes lots of helpful tips in case you're not, but improvised sewing can be unnerving and this was an easy way to do improv and still follow a pattern (I like structure). The steps are all laid out but you are creating the curves and adapting the instructions as you wish.
It was a good excuse to raid my scrap basket too. I found this gorgeous Deer Valley print by Joel Dewberry (discontinued) and mixed it with some Carkai by Carolyn Friedlander, Essex Yarn Dyed Metallic in Storm and Netorious in Camp Out, Cotton and Steel for the casing and lining.
I am using the bag to hold my precious selvedges! Also by keeping the bag in sight I might remember to actually use them every now and again.
This is the reverse side of the bag, though actually I think I prefer it - the touch of floral and the bright Bear Hug, Spirit Animal by Tula Pink makes me so happy.
Lever Arch file cover and Tula Pink 💖
I am pleased as punch (stationery pun intended) with my Lever Arch file cover, designed to pretty up those boring plain files. Mine has been filled with sewing patterns but you can use it for whatever you like! Keep it simple using one fabric or add in some patchwork and embellish to your hearts content. There are so many possibilities for personalising this with patchwork, appliqué or embroidery.
The spine of the file has a vinyl pocket for a label, so it is practical as well as pretty.
This first edition was made with Blueberry Park by Karen Lewis Textiles as the main fabric and a strip of hand sewn clamshells (begun as a sample while I was teaching).
Next I made one for work and today was a super exciting day because Tula Pink came to the studio and was absolutely enchanting (watch the interview below)! The whole All Stars range and her amazing tools were featured on Sewing Quarter.
▪ houndstooth runner & quick step quilt ▪
This is a fresh and pretty quilt made for Sewing Quarter. I had fun quilting this one and doing a bit of appliqué. The four patches were strip pieced so it came together quite easily.
The Quick Step quilt pattern is from the book Quick & Easy Quilts from Annie's, Leisure Arts. I made a smaller version than the one in the book, with four blocks and sashing.
The wavy lines in the centre were free motion quilted and then I used the walking foot to do some straight lines and curves around the outside. I didn't mark any lines, just eyeballed it. I really enjoyed creating the curves! Given more time I think this pattern would be perfect for some intricate free motion quilting and those larger sections could be filled with beautiful designs, something floral to match the flowers created by the appliqué perhaps.
braid quilt and colour wheel (sort of!)
Last weekend I was on Sewing Quarter, using fun shapes and tools to create two small quilts - one of which used a bit of artistic licence!
The first is this 'Braid' baby quilt, using inspiration from Carolyn Forster's book One Patch Quilts. It's a clever book that explores quilts made from a single repeating shape and is perfect for sparking ideas and playing with shapes. I used Scandi Basics by Makower and a solid red to make a striking repeat. This curved stitch has become one of my favourites for quilting. I used grey and red thread alternately so red would be on the 'hearts' and grey on the patterned fabric.
cord keeper tutorial 🔌
Perfect for keeping cords and earphones from tangling. Throw the cord keeper in your bag and the cords are safely stored away and easy to find! I use both sizes, one for cables and one for headphones, and it's excellent to have them neat and organised when I'm travelling. It makes a great gift too!
YOU WILL NEED:
Circle templates - cut from cardboard - for the large size radius = 2.5" and for the small size radius = 2"
7in x 10in of the following: outer fabric, lining fabric and wadding
3/4in x 24in strip of fabric*
Fusible Bias Tape Maker 9mm width*
Fusible web for tape maker 5mm width*
Fabric glue pen
2 sew on snap fasteners
bias binding - cut strips 1¼" and it's better to make more than the circumference of the circle to make finishing easier.
*Ric Rac or ribbon would be a good alternative to making bias tape!
FINISHED SIZE
Large: approx. 5" Small: approx. 4"
FABRICS USED
Grid in Blue, Print Shop by Alexia Abegg for Cotton + Steel; Netorious in Cloud, Cotton + Steel Basics by Cotton + Steel; Sprinkle in Black Cat, Cotton + Steel Basics by Cotton + Steel.
Fabric supplied by Fat Quarter Shop.
TUTORIAL STEPS
Seam allowances are ¼", unless otherwise noted.
2. Use the circle templates to cut a large and small circle from the quilted panel.
3. Make a fusible binding strip using the fabric strip, the bias tape maker and fusible web.
4. Peel off the paper backing, fold the binding in half width-wise and press to fuse and create narrow strips.
5. Fold the circles in half, each half can now be decorated by appliqueing the strip.
6. Make a loop, wiggly line or any design you like with the strips and use a fabric glue pen to hold in place.
8. Attach binding to the front, fold over and hand sew to the lining. You can trim the seam allowance slightly to make it easier to bind.
No more tangled mess, enjoy your organised cables and headphones!
I would love to see your versions of these! Tag me on social media @charmaboutyou
This post is part of the Finish-A-Long tutorial week, make sure you check out the others:
- Sept 27: Lucy, Charm About You, Cord Keeper
And there's still time to link up your quarter 3 finishes! Click here to link up
This pattern was originally published in Love Patchwork & Quilting, Issue 46.
linking up to:
can I get a whoop whoop at Confessions of a Fabric Addict
and finish it up friday at crazy mom quilts
Superman GLITTA zip pouch
Give me a fabulous pattern, fabric I love and an hour and I'm in my happy place. This new pattern by Laura Cunningham is the most fun. She expertly shows you how to sew with vinyl, with loads of useful tips along the way that make it so easy. GLITTA is such a well written pattern and pattern testers have been all been busy making amazingly varied and awesome versions, click #GLITTApouch to see all the sparkles!
I have been waiting to make this project. I have had the fabric and confetti for a while, I was going to make Laura's original See It All Pouch pattern but that would have meant less Superman and I couldn't cut him up. GLITTA is perfect because it lets the fabric be the star and you just throw a little (or a lot) of glitter or confetti on top. This confetti by Ginger Ray was destined to go with the fabric that my amazing friend Nicky gave me (along with the beautifully made notebook cover below!). I would recommend using good quality confetti like this if you are going for paper cut outs because otherwise they bend when you are turning the pouch through.
It's hard to show in photos but it's like a snow globe effect and the glitter/confetti can be shaken to move around. It is very cool. I have so many ideas for personalising this in different ways and it makes a fab gift! Christmas or birthday versions would be perfect for that.
If you haven't guessed my favourite superhero is Superman, an icon of good, strength and truth. He has a energetic charm and, while this might sound weird, there are times when I think about Superman and it gives me the power to keep going. On days when I have a lot to accomplish or I'm feeling like I can't be bothered, it really helps motivate me. See I told you it was weird. Whatever works though, right?! There's also that whole dual identity thing which, since I've been struggling with anxiety, can also be empowering. I came across this brilliant article Superman Character Analysis: More than just a guy who punches things that is a neat commentary of all the ways I love him and why.
My Superman collection is growing. The notebook and lego figure were both thoughtful gifts so this is my first Superman make and I like the coordination that's going on here!
I did add some little bits of sequin style confetti to the pouch, that I found in the bottom of my kids craft box. It had to have a bit of shine too ✨
Support small business and check out Laura's shop, she has free patterns downloads along with the fantastic new GLITTA pattern and more!
Thank you for letting me test Laura! If you aren't already make sure you follow her on instagram, she's an inspiring and wonderful designer.
Now I'm interested if anyone else has a fictional character they turn to for inner strength? Is it just me?!
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