Goodbye Year 2016!

The year is pretty much over. With just a few hours left before we begin a new journey through 2017 I look back and feel that the year for me has gone by too quickly. Sometimes days and even weeks were rushed by without much realisation or productivity, they came and went in some kind of a sleep deprived haze. I know it's just a phase and it will pass like everything in our lives, but my goal for the next year is to slow down and concentrate on the happiness of every single moment no matter what I do or how tired I might feel.

A Set of Christmas Coasters...

...that I made for this Christmas and no one wants to use them. Not because we don't like them, but quite the opposite. The boys are saying that they are too pretty and nice to be used for something like a cup of tea that might stain the coaster. Well, I kind of agree with them. :-) The coasters turned out so sweet that I myself keep looking at them and fiddling with them while having my cup of tea and trying my best to keep my cup on the very corner of a coaster or using a different mug rug all together. That's ridiculous and we should stop this nonsense once and for all and enjoy using the things I make no matter how much we love them. Right?

Happy Christmas Makes

I enjoyed Christmas time this year. I promised myself that I would not get caught in a pre-Christmas rush and would make sure that I enjoy the time with my family and friends rather than trying to get all the things done the way I like and being left feeling tired and exhausted. I am happy to say that I managed to do just that. I even had a chance to have a few sweet naps with my Little One over the break period who gave up his day sleep a few weeks ago, but felt like napping the last two days.

I took my time to do a little bit of Christmas sewing this year that I finished all right on time. I have made my first ever advent calendar that we filled with cookies and chocolates. I ordered Belle and Book fabric called "Christmas" from the official store while it was on sale some time ago. When it arrived I was almost squealing with joy. It's so so cute! This fabric was a perfect choice for small pockets of the calendar.

Our New Friend and Some More Felty Goodness

Please meet our new friend Mr. Cat! Well, he has been with us for a while now, for about four weeks. I am trying to write blog posts at the same time as I finish sewing projects, but it's not happening just yet. I have quite a few makes and works in progress that I have not shared with you yet, but I am going to show you them soon. So...please meet Mr. Cat! How cool is he in his liberty outfit! It was such a wonderful, sweet and lovely project.

ATC Swap "Winter Sparkle"

Yay! The card is finished and ready to be send away across the ocean again. Ali of Very Berry Handmade chose the same theme as two years ago. It was interesting to see what I could come up with this time around.

Sunny Bunny Pouch

When I saw the latest fabric "Dandelion" by Belle and Boo, I instantly fell in love with it. These bunnies flying on dandelion parachutes are simply adorable. I wanted to make something with it for my Little Boy. The only problem is that it's pink. I have nothing against pink colour being used for boys, but still I would like to keep it a bit more boyish, but quite sweet.

Sweet Orchard

It's the first fabric line by Sedef Imer of Down Grapevine Lane. I could not wait to get my hands on this pretty and absolutely sweet collections of fruit, berries, stripes, dots and florals. It truly is sweet!

Tutorial: Little Prickly Friend

I have been enjoying some hand stitching with snippets of wool felt and linen lately and one night I got inspired to make this Little Prickly Friend. He is so fun to embroider!

Little Prickly Friend

Look who came for a visit the other day and decided to stay with us because he found a perfect house to live in. This small calico tote turned out to be just the right size for this Little Prickly Friend. He really likes it here. He looks quite content and happy.

Bookmarks

I love embroidery. Any kind really, but I have never enough patience for large patterns. So tiny motifs are the best choices for me because they take very little time to finish and they can be easily squeezed into my day. Just like these two camomiles. Delicate, simple and very pretty.

Apple Hot Pot Holders

A very quick post to say Hi and to show you something I made a while back, but totally forgot to share it here on the blog. Remember the apple coasters I made using a free paper piecing apple pattern? I made quite a few apples that time because they were so addictive to make. I just could not stop at one.

Hexagons, Hexagons and More Hexagons

Or shall we simply say "Hexie Love"? Just look at this beautiful splash of pastels! The most beautiful "Woodland Clearing" line by Liesl Gibson parading here in hexagons. Pink, aqua, beige...beautiful prints that almost look like watercolours or cross-stitch designs.

Some Easy Cooking

Bircher Muesli is one of my favourite breakfasts of all times. It's quick and easy to prepare, it's delicious, fulfilling and also healthy. Making my breakfast in a glass jar late at night when the house is all quiet excites me. It's almost like making a magic potion...

Molly Pincushion

How many pincushions do you have? Do you always use the same one or a few for different things you make? I remember my Grandma's pincushion (for some odd reason I remember only one, I am sure she had more) that used to hang behind a kitchen door along with some scissors and other tools. It always was there so anyone who needed a needle or a pin for some quick work could find it right away instead of looking inside Grandma's large sewing machine cabinet/table.

Choosing my Threads

I have to say at the very beginning that this is not a review in any way and not a recommendation. It's purely my opinion and my own search in products suitable for my own needs when it comes to sewing and quilting. I always enjoy adding small stitches to my little makes. Generally I use DMC Embroidery Floss, but lately I have been using a few other threads and wanted to share my finds with you, my dear readers.

Cute Animals Baby Bib

I think a baby or toddler can never have too many bibs. What do you think? Our Little One has a whole stack, but most of them are store bought that were given him when he was born. But for some strange reason he takes them all off during his meal times. The only ones he wears happily are the ones that I made him. I honestly have no idea why. My only guess is that he does not like velcro. My bibs have snaps or ribbons to tie them. But anyway, I have a few more bibs on my To-Do list, but this one can be crossed out. I am really happy with how all the hexagons came together to create this lovely collage. I added a tiny touch of pink to this bib because I am afraid that the day when my Little One will insist on his own colour choices (that would not include pink, most likely) is not far away.

Mice Invasion

I am not kidding... They invaded all my sewing nook, they took up my time, they messed up some of the pretty fabrics. It was so bad that they even nibbled on some of the felt that was meant for a soft toy I was making for my Little One! These mice were so sneaky and cheeky, but I have to admit they are super cute.

Making Pouches

It's always fun and you can always find a use for a pouch, large or small. They are useful for storing some sewing notions and projects you're working on or they can simply make lovely gifts. Do you see that little bunny hiding in tulips? Isn't he cute?! I love Sarah Jane's collection called "Sommer". It's pretty, delicate and whimsical. These pastel colours are very sweet and soft, and make me think of the best summer ever. A summer full of joy and sunshine, butterflies and berries and of course pretty flowers.

Felty Goodness

Breakfast anyone? Eggs and tomatoes and mushrooms. My Little One loves playing with kitchen utensils. Pots and spoons and bowls are always on the kitchen floor while he is mixing something and filling them with different things.

 

Fabric Stash: New Additions

It's been a long while since I posted any fabric additions to my stash on my blog, but it does not mean that I have not been buying any fabric. It's quite the opposite actually. I have been adding small bits and pieces of different collections and random prints to my stash. Since I joined Instagram, I have discovered so many nice online fabric stores and what's even better is that some of them are local which means that the delivery costs are quite low. These adorable mice were on my shopping list for a very long time and finally I found them along with some piggies, and frogs, and kittens. Heather Ross' designs are always so fun and cute.

Spring Coasters

This year, like never before I have been waiting for the Spring to come and finally it's here. The sun is shining, the new leaves on trees are popping out here and there, spring flowers are blooming and you can just feel the warmth in the air. To celebrate the arrival of the Spring I decided to make a set of coasters with spring flowers based on Kazuko Aoki's book "The Embroidered Garden" that I bought recently. I have been a huge fan of Kazuko's work since the first time I saw one of her embroideries. Her work is exquisite, delicate and very detailed. If you like any kind of hand embroidery, I am sure you would enjoy Kazuko Aoki's books.

A Pencil Folder...

...for my little one. I just love finding inspirations in unexpected places. What could be in common between a pencil folder and a sewing machine cover?

The Story of a Lonely Sock

Lonely because I have managed to finish only one by now. As I said before, after watching a few podcasts by some talented girls (Jooles of SewSweetViolet and Sandra of CherryHeart), I got inspired to knit socks. I could not wait and ran to a local craft store to get some yarn. The choice there is not that great, but I was able to find some suitable material. I bought this pretty purplish-pink yarn, pale pink and blue for my little boy. Once my little boy was tucked in bed that night, I sat down comfortably and started my knitting adventure.

Have You Heard of a Knitting Bug?

I think I have got it. But it's not a major one that knocks you off your feet, but still contagious and strong enough to make me go and buy some yarn. After watching the first two podcasts by Jooles of SewSweetViolet (oh, Jooles is so so sweet!), I really felt like knitting...SOCKS. Well, I have not knitted socks for something like 20 plus years, but I felt inspired to do that. This was just the beginning of the first pair of socks. Yes, first. I planned three. For now.

Little Foxy

I don't get much time to sketch these days. I find that I cannot sit and sketch if I know that I am going to be interrupted which is always the case with a little one around. I need some time to relax, get in the right mood and most of all be inspired. Well, some time ago, while we were having our usual late cup of tea, just the three of us, me, my Dear Husband and our not so little boy, I felt like doodling a bit. I just sat there sipping my tea, chatting and scribbling on paper. That's what came out of that late night doodling. A cute little fox with a couple of autumn leaves drifting in the air.

Pretty Project Bags

Have used any? They are such a fantastic idea! We went away for a few days recently and I packed some knitting and sewing to take along with me in both bags. It was much much easier to pack and unpack my work, it was put away quickly and stored nicely. Let me tell you a bit more about these great makes.

ATC Swap

"Say Something" was the theme of the latest Artist Trading Card ran by Ali of VeryBerryHandmade.

Rainbow of Flying Geese

It's been a while since I made any fabric envelopes. They were some of the first projects I worked on when I just started sewing a few years back. So simple and so pretty at the same time with any details you like to add. This latest envelope features my first ever attempt at the flying geese paper piecing pattern. When I bought a box of fat quarters in solid colours, I knew what I wanted to make right away. These colours are beautiful on their own without any complicated patterns, so flying geese seemed like a good idea.

Tutorial: Pretty Bobby Pins

How about making some pretty bobby pins? Honestly, I am addicted to making these. They are so quick, easy and really fun to make. You will need special pins with pads and a button covering kit. They can easily be found online or in some of your local craft stores. Bobby pins are an excellent small gift, especially if you make cards to hold them.

Thimble Notes

About three years ago I was working on a small pillow and that's what I wrote back then: Note to Self: Thing number one: when it comes to hand sewing, DO NOT attempt to finish it all in one go. Thing number two: find a way to protect fingers so you won't end up in pain for a few days afterwards.

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No.19, No.25, No.27, No.28 and No.33

It's The Splendid Sampler time again. Let's start with the block No.19 "Measure Twice, Cut Once" designed by Jane Davidson. What can I say...this block is all about me. I have to admit, I am always in a hurry to cut instead of checking the measurements, and then I find myself with bits and pieces that are way too short. Just like this block itself. Can you believe it?! Do you see that extra piece on the right hand side? It was not supposed to be there, but because I was in a hurry to grab and use the scissors, I snipped the pink "measuring tape" piece shorter than I needed and there were not any pink pieces left. I really must read this and remember every time I am sewing. Maybe I should make a mini quilt and put it on a wall next to my machine so I can always see this reminder.

Work in Progress: Starting too Many Projects?

That's the question I keep asking myself daily. Am I trying to get my hands on too many things at the same time? Or is it my sleep deprived mind that cannot settle on one thing and needs a constant change? Whatever it is that makes me be that way, I kind of like it because I can choose what I am going to work on when I have a few spare minutes and not really worry about finishing it. This little project is something I am making with a very narrow bias tape. It's perfect for this fabric weaving idea. Don't you like all these pretty flowers?

Small Finishes

Do you like DIY fabric covered buttons? I do. There are so many great uses for them. Lately I have made some fridge magnets, needle minders and hair bobby pins. So quick and easy, and very useful too. I made cards to hold the hair pins using some pretty scrapbooking paper and pieces of ribbon.

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No.21 and No.22

A small update on my Splendid Sampler progress. Not much to report yet unfortunately. Other projects, everyday chores and most of all, our Little One (that I don't mind at all), take up too much of my time at the moment. But still, this small progress is better than nothing, I suppose. So...here are the two blocks I managed to finish.

Afternoon Reading and Oaty Choc-Chip Cookies

While in the city today, I popped into Kinokuniya to check out the new arrivals of Japanese craft books and magazines. I was delighted to spot the latest issue of Japanese Stitch Idees magazine. It's a gem! I own only one very old copy of this magazine that I bought recently online. So it was a special treat to find this magazine available at the store.

Little Bunny's New Cot

This very special little Bunny came to live with us not that long ago. You see, the Christmas before last, while I was still pregnant, our not so little son decided that he wanted to get a special gift for his unborn baby brother. So he did. With his own money. We thought it was rather sweet. This little Bunny waited patiently for our very little baby boy to be born, and when he did, the Bunny came to the hospital and then back home with us. Since that time he's lived in our baby's cot.

Saving the Scraps

While working on the "Lowa" block for The Splendid Sampler project, I had some trimmings left. These tiny delicate pieces looked so lovely together that I could not bring myself to throw them away. I put them aside and continued working on my block, but at the same time I kept thinking what I could make with these trimmings. A teeny weeny pinwheel block seemed like a nice option.

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No.13 - No.15

Block No.13 "Scrap Star" by Corey Yoder. I really enjoyed working on this block. I surprised myself once I measured the finished block (after sewing together all these tiny pieces) - it was the correct size. Yay! It seems like I am learning something along the way. It makes me happy!

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No.9 - No.12

"Local Quilt Shop" block No.9 designed by Jane Davidson. I had to modify this block just a little bit so I could fit the "Fabric" sign right in. It was such a fun block to sew! It did not take any time for me to pull the right fabrics for this block, I knew exactly what I was going to use.

There Once Lived...

... a very curious Mousey Mouse. A few to be exact. Who love ride on bikes, sit on chunks of cheese, have tea or watch telly in the afternoon. I adore this lovely fabric with cheeky mice. I was so happy when I found a matching plate, cup and spoon at the Zara Home store that gave me the idea for this project.

Tutorial: Interfacing Applique

There are many different methods available when it comes to applique. The choice really depends on what look you are trying to achieve and how the item is going to be used once finished. I have been using the fusible interfacing method for quite a while now and I really like it. It's quick, it's easy, it gives the finished design a nice clean edge and it gives some body to the applique piece as well. I used this method for the cherries on these baby bibs, for one of the Splendid blocks, for this tote and some other projects. It's a nice and fun way to play with applique and does not require a lot of material or time.

Precious Memories

I find it difficult parting with old things, especially things that have some sentimental value to me. Just like this white lace. It was made by my dear Mum a long time ago, when she already was unwell and didn't have full control of her hand. She made me a simple item of clothing and added this crochet lace on some parts of it. The garment had been worn out long ago, but I could not part with it. It was too precious. I kept it tucked away in a box for years. It bore the memory of my Mum, her crafty skills, her hands, her love and warmth, and kindness.

Tea Time

I did a lot of fussy cutting a week ago trying to save all the cupcakes, little ducklings, elephants and Belle and her friend Boo along with some little pirates and cute pair waking in the woods. These sweet snippets, that I could not part with, made me want to sew right away.

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No.5 - No.8

When I saw all the amazing blocks being made by the participants around the world, it made me think. Think of my final quilt and how it would look.

Work in Progress: Sooo Slow

I think I am going to repeat myself for the thousandth time, but I do need some extra free time. Is it only me who cannot manage sewing with a baby around or some of you feel the same way? But anyway, let me show you just a few little things I am working on. First up is this Mousey Mouse item. It is so much fun! I used my Reverse Appliqué Tutorial that you can find here for this project. There going to be a bit more appliqué and some embroidery and maybe even quilting involved. I am really enjoying working on it. The progress is quite slow not only because of the time limit, but also because I am designing it as I go. I started with one idea and quite soon changed the direction, I am adding small bits and pieces, just a few stitches at a time. So let's wait and see where this Mousey Mouse is going to end up.

A New Home For...

... my reading companion KOBO. It is so much easier to buy any case at the shops. The choice is great, the prices are not that high and I could have saved a lot of time that is so precious these days. But we all know that there is something special, heartwarming and wonderfully pleasant in handmade things. Right? It gives you a chance of choosing that particular colour and that particular print and style that you love so much.

The Splendid Sampler: Blocks No. 3 and No. 4

I think I am in love. Really. Truly. This block was an absolute pleasure to work on. From the first step of auditioning the fabrics for each heart to the very last one of pressing the block with a hot iron. This block No. 3 is called "Lots of Love" designed by Melissa Corry. Easy to sew and can be used in large quilts or just like small items on its own.

Fabric Stash: All in Pink

It's been a while since I showed you any additions to my stash. I have been buying some fat quarters here and there from time to time but nothing major really because I am trying to work with whatever fabric I already have in my stash. But some prints are simply impossible to resist. Just like the two prints below by Atsuko Matsuyama. Look at these cherries and strawberries! All in pink!

The Splendid Sampler: Block No. 1 and No. 2

I am very excited! I have joined the largest project ever (for me personally) with thousands of people sewing along around the world. The Splendid Sampler. Have you heard about it? A whole year of making 100 quilting blocks designed especially for this project.

Flowers, Teapot and Butterfly

A very simple, but I should say a rather delicate mug rug thanks to the Japanese cross-stitch design and this lovely floral fabric that I had only a tiny piece of. When I found this teapot and cup cross-stitch pattern, I instantly fell in love with it. Just a few crosses that can be stitched in any colour would make a lovely addition to any mat or a tea towel.