How To Make a Recycled Sewing Kit and Pin Cushion

A relative gave me a bag of these containers and said "maybe you can do something with them".  The challenge was on.  With a glue gun, fabric, stuffing and trims, you can make a pin cushion sewing kit or just a cute place to keep stuff.  Start by thoroughly cleaning and drying the container.  Remove any labels.  These containers are nice and strong and are completely clear of labels except the top.  If yours has side writing, just cover with fabric and trims.

Cut a square, or circle larger than the top.  Wrap the fabric around a nice big wad of stuffing.  I took a few stitches to hold the corners together.

Hot glue the pouffe to the lid.  I worked my way around, tucking under the raw fabric edge and gluing as I went- probably the hardest part.  Add trims around the rim to cover any glue drips.  I used trim and ribbon scraps I already had.

I have the fringe and lace facing up so it doesn't get in the way of closing the jar and

it is cute like this.  They remind me of flowers and cupcakes.

Makes a great sewing kit or place to keep jewelry. 

You could place fancy broaches and earrings in the pin cushion too.

Happy Feline Friday!

Sewing is Earth Friendly!

I think sewing with found fabric (old sheets, clothes etc.) really boosts creativity and refashioning clothes definitely saves money and who doesn't want that?!  Whenever my fabric collection starts bursting out of the drawers, I challenge myself to only sew from my stash, no new purchases until I have room.  This goes for my closet too.  I have reached that point again.  I'm currently sewing a quilt with scraps of upholstery fabric given to me by a friend.  I can't turn down fabric!  Anyway, I have no idea what this quilt will look like, I'm making it up as I go. 

Here is a past post on sewing is Earth friendly. Share your ideas on how sewing is Earth friendly in the comments- I'd love to hear them!  I put my smallest scraps in pet beds and donate them to the animal shelter.  In this post is how to make pet pillows out of fabric scraps. 

PDF Sewing pattern and instructions don't require printing, here are some that have the added benefit of remaking sweaters and jeans-
http://www.etsy.com/listing/25559925/sweater-to-purse-sewing-instruction-pdf
http://www.etsy.com/listing/48726423/pants-to-purse-sewing-instruction-pdf
Quilting can be very environmentally friendly if you are using leftovers from other projects and old clothes etc.  Here is my super easy flip quilt instructions that will make a Quilter out of anyone!  Similarly, is the very stylish sling bag.

Book Review: Craft Cycle by Heidi Boyd

 In honor of Earth Day (everyday), I made a few projects from Craft Cycle by Heidi Boyd.  I love this book!  Its got innovative projects and recipes!  It is divided into seasons with tips on how to be Earth friendly.

 I decided to make a coiled basket from old t-shirt scraps (leftover from another project).  Mine isn't as large as Heidi's example in the book, but the technique is the same.

 I added a few extra bows around the rim- it seemed to need it.

 The cats approve of it.  Alice wanted to try it first, then Emma had a go, below.

 Next, I made fused plastic bags.  Instead of the tote from the book, I used the instructions and decided to add a zipper.  It was something different to try.  I had a couple of bags from when I was in England (1981?!)  Each zipper bag requires several plastic bags to start with. 

This one is really showing my age- records and tapes! 

Here is the zipper top.  These were fun projects and I will be trying out the recipes soon.  I'm looking forward to making the shoe bracelet, mittens and owl clothespin holder.  Any recycled book recommendations?

How To: Make a Pet Pillow

A great way to use scraps, discarded and unwearable clothing is to make pet pillows! I keep a container on my sewing table and I fill it with threads and bits of fabric. When it's full, I start stuffing a pillow. My pillows vary, around 14"x14" to 20"x20". The yellow one above is an old shirt (you can see the placket). I'm still stuffing that one. When I have several finished, I deliver them to my local SPCA. It is fun to see animals enjoying them. Knowing that I'm keeping fabric out of the landfill is nice too!

How To Sew, Be Earth Friendly, And Save Money

There are so many ways to sew, be Earth friendly and save money at the same time! Mending and altering items which otherwise might go in the trash. Quilting with all the scraps saved from other projects or discarded clothing and curtains. Create something wonderful out of fabric that might go to waste. I use old clothes, unsuitable for quilts, to wipe up spills instead of paper towels. Make your own cloth napkins out of 12"-18" squares hemmed on all sides. I find that cotton in a medium to dark print works best to hide spaghetti stains! Make a canvas shopping bag from a simple pattern and use it when you go to the store. I have four I take to the grocery store and others in the car and in my purse just in case. Remake clothes, that are no longer being worn, into purses using my instruction booklets available at http://catsongstitchery.etsy.com . Give pants and sweaters new life. I even made an autoharp case out of my living room curtains. Make reusable gift bags out of pretty blouses, skirts or t-shirts. Cut 2 squares or rectangles- larger than the gift. Sew right sides together on 3 sides. Hem the opening and tie with a ribbon. It is that easy! Buy recycled fabric and organic whenever possible. It is starting to show up more in stores. Get creative- keep the earth in mind and save money too!