Crafts: Pillowcases

Cole typically doesn't enjoy going to the fabric store, but we recently visited a quilt shop that has several bolts of boy-specific fabrics at a little boy's eye level (take note fabric sellers). He was ecstatic to find - within easy reach - fabric with emergency vehicles, trains, trucks, and the like. He pulled his favorites off the shelf, stacked about a dozen or so bolts near the cutting counter, and announced he wanted two yards of each!

Instead of purchasing 20+ yards we went home with two yards of Cole's top two selections. From these I made two pillowcases using Film in the Fridge's tutorial.

As you can see, Cole's rather pleased with them both.

Crafts: Purple Unicorn Pillow

We're moving overseas in less than three months, and we'll be packing out our household goods much sooner. It's time to complete a few parting gifts.

One of Cole's friends loves purple and unicorns, and I own two of Heather Ross's unicorns on purple (purchased during a studio sale years ago). I paired these with a few Denyse Schmidt, Erin McMorris, and Lizzy House scraps to create two log cabin blocks. With the addition of Kona Eggplant, straight line quilting, a lavender zipper, and the softest 12" X 16" pillow form, I made a reversible pillow for a sweet, little girl.

I had so much fun making this pillow, and part of me doesn't want to part with it. But I do prefer green. Thankfully, I also have one of Heather Ross's unicorns on green...

Crafts: Simple Skirts

I made three simple skirts for my son's best friend, Marley. I used two tutorials: one by Simple Simon & Company and another by Made. The skirts are truly simple sews, but make for a lovely end product.

Each skirt is made from Denyse Schmidt fabrics, available at Jo-Ann Fabrics. The purple skirt (Marley's favorite) also uses polka dot bias tape purchased in Japan.

If you're a novice apparel sewer, like me, do give these tutorials a try - you won't be disappointed!

Crafts: Modified Mail Sack

I recently made a couple of bags for an acquaintance. One of them was a modified Pink Chalk Studio Mail Sack. I prefer the pattern as is, but was asked to add a flap and shorten the strap. I wasn't keen on the strap modification, but, all things considered, think the bag turned out fairly well.

I recycled her husband's military uniform, cover insignia, and her father's uniform pockets and blousing strap. I used Anna Maria Horner's Loulouthi Clippings in Cherry for contrast.