Free Motion Quilting

This month's expert is Ann Fahl.  One suggestion she had was doodle on paper first, then sew.  While I was stitching it felt like doodling too.  I had fun with it and I think I am improving.  I started in the middle (also her suggestion) with Loops and Twists.  Then I added hearts that became shamrocks (Happy St. Patrick's Day!).  I tried stars, swirls, flowers and spiky sun things.

I did a flamingo and a fish (standing on its nose), below.

Feline Friday

I went a little foodie for this Feline Friday. 

The goldfish crackers were just begging to become a cat (and then get eaten!)

And then these little cats were playing hide and seek around the bananas!

Next week I have a fabric cat project I'm working on...



New Pattern Shop on Craftsy

You can now purchase my patterns on Craftsy, here.  I don't have my full selection up yet, but the good thing about Craftsy is no waiting!  You download the pattern directly from the site.  You can of course still see and purchase all my patterns on etsy. 

Have a Crafty Weekend!

Make Yourself a Lucky Charm

St.Patrick's Day is coming soon!  Here is how I make my lucky paperweight.

You can make yours any size.  The smallest above (and the example below) is using a piece of fabric 7"x4".  If you want to add any fancy machine stitches, do that now.  Start by folding it in half as shown, with right sides together.  Sew 1/4" seam allowance along 2 sides (see below).

Next, you "box the bottom".  See below.  Fold each corner so seams match or so seam is at the center of the fold.  Stitch across as seen in the picture.  This creates a flat bottom like a paper grocery bag or a box.  Turn it right side out.

Here is what it should look like from the outside.

Fill the bag with clean rocks and lucky doodads.  Top it off with polyfil stuffing or fabric scraps.  Run a long hand stitch around the top to gather in the fabric and close up the top.  At this time add any ribbons and yarn for hair.

I used felt eyebrows that I hand stitched on at the same time as I attached the vintage buttons for eyes.  Now just sit back and let the good luck grow!

Feline Friday- Free Motion Quilting

I sat down to practice my free motion quilting and this crawled out of my needle!  I used red thread mainly because that was what was in the machine (you do this too!).  All free hand, no drawing on the fabric first.  I like the surprise on the bottom cat's right ear- it looks like a bird to me!