Showing posts with label alexander henry fabrics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label alexander henry fabrics. Show all posts

Friday, May 13, 2011

Sketch Stitch Tree Pillow : :

Yes, today I have yet another pillow to show you! My second Sketch Stitch Tree Pillow -- you can see the first one here, if you'd like. This one is a little funkier, a bit bigger, and much more colorful. Are you calling me the pillow lady yet? B'cuz I've been wondering.
sketch stitch tree pillow
The thing about me making so many pillows is simply this -- it's how I learn. I have only been sewing for 1 year now, and just like I found making my dollhouses and dolls my niche with knitting, I'm trying to find that with my sewing as well. I've learned that quilting isn't it. Well, not yet anyways. I'm thinking these "sketch stitch" pillows I am making now, might just be "it."
sketch stitch tree pillow #2
It's fun for me. I get the same feeling I used to get when I would draw something, a good feeling. And, the possibilities are endless. Anything I can draw, simplified, can become the applique. I will admit I have the habit of overworking the things I've made in every medium, be it drawings, paintings, knitting, felting, and sewing. Taking my ideas too far has been a criticism I've had of my own work for as long as I can remember. With this, I am allowing the length of the bobbin thread to tell me when to stop. I like to try to keep as much of a single continuous stitch as possible, always staying aware of that dwindling line of thread.   
sketch stitch details
Is there anything better than red and white polka-dot fabric? Really, I just love it!
corner
This little check fabric is also becoming a favorite of mine. It's actually a holiday print by Michael Miller, but it's so very versatile. I'm patting myself on the back for buying up three yards after Christmas when it was marked down to a great sale price. I just found a little here, but that's it!reverse side
This is also the first time I framed an applique on felt with quilting cotton fabric. I wasn't sure if the thickness of the felt would keep it from laying properly. It stitched up, ironed up, and lays like a dream! I will definitely be doing this often!
sketch stitch tree pillow
I still have two more pillows to share from last weeks sewing adventures. But for now I am off to the sewing room to make more birthday crowns with the balcony door and window open!

Hope you have a lovely day!   ~   Maureen

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Who-o-o, Who-o-o

I so love making these owl dolls! And, noticed tonight that I am getting pretty close to 500 followers!!! Once I do, I am planning a HUGE giveaway...the mother of all destashings!!! So, be ready!!!

xo, Maureen

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Aprons for my Etsy : :

Fall is here and with that cool weather, returns the need for a little warmth that only baking can bring! And so, I spent some time this past weekend making a few new aprons, this time for my etsy shop. I decided to make three different styles, inspired by each of my sister's : :  Bohemian, Vintage, and Modern ~ Catherine, Biz, and Angela.

This is my Bohemian apron --- With bright, colorful, and fun Anna Maria Horner and Alexander Henry fabrics, with vintage ric rac details, and extra long straps to tie at the front for a pretty detail or in the back, as well.
This center Alexander Henry fabric reminds me of how much I used to love painting with watercolors. A perfect apron for an artist, don't you think?
This is my Vintage inspired Apron --- With sweet yellow, orange, and gray fabrics, with vintage ric rac details,  yellow crocheted ball fringe along the hem line, and extra long straps that can be tied in the front...
or the back...
Here is a close-up of the crocheted details...my favorite part. Perfect for those of you, who like me, dance around in the kitchen while cooking.
This is my second Vintage inspired apron --- With cool blue, yellow, orange, and gray fabrics, with vintage ric rac details, a vintage doily pocket, and extra long straps to tie at the front or back.
Here is a close up of the fabrics and the subtle pleating I adding under the waste band.
The is my Modern half apron wrap --- With brightly colored damask, graphic, and large modern floral printed fabrics, designed to be a wrap style, with extra large straps that can be tied in the back or...
in the front as a bow or simple square knot for a modern look.
I have always been an apron wearer. I wear them in the kitchen, when I'm gardening, while I'm crafting with the kids, and often when I'm knitting with my wool --- since wool + black pants = not a good look. I always thought that if I were a teacher I'd wear a different apron each day of the week, so I had something to keep my chalk in and the students would have something to remember me by.

I'd love for you to let me know in the comments or stop over at my shop, have a look, and heart your favorite. I really enjoyed making these and would love to know what style is the most popular!

Wishing you all a beautiful day! ~ Maureen