Saturday, March 31, 2007

A Cushion for Every Pin


Four characteristics that can be used to describe any project I attempt these days: creative, portable, able to be finished within a day or two, and kid-proof.

CREATIVE because after putting the same wooden train set together for the hundredth time, I need to create something soft and fuzzy. Running after two small kids means I don't sit down.

PORTABLE because I have to stitch standing up while the pasta boils. And sometimes whatever I'm working on ends up stuffed in my hip pocket while I attempt to keep my 18 month old from jumping off the couch.

ABLE TO BE FINISHED within a few days (or hours) because I have children whom I cuddle and love as much as possible which leaves little time for much else.

KID-PROOF because working on something in front of the kids means they think its for them - and it probably is. Even if it is for someone else, I like to know it has been beaten, chewed, and dragged around the house by my kids - and survived. I take pride in that kind of craftsmanship.

The only type of project that really fits is a pincushion (sans pins of course). Their form is only limited by my imagination. They fit neatly in a pocket, or preferably a little bin or pouch, and are relatively quick. They also double as building blocks in case you were wondering.

Here are a few of my recent creations:


The Apartment Building was inspired in part
by Bella Dia whose house pincushions I just adore.


This is my "Lake in the Woods" cushion.


No theme here just blocks of color and ribbon.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Apples for Sale

Every morning over coffee, I torture myself by looking through my favorite vintage fabric websites. I don't usually buy, but instead collect the pictures in hopes that one day (when I have extra money) I'll be able to find similar patterns or styles.

I am amazed at the sheer volume of vintage apple print fabrics. The styles and colors vary tremendously. Each one of these is currently up for sale on ebay, sharon's antiques, or www.antiquefabric.com.

This is my very favorite. Its up for auction right now on ebay.


I think this one is for sale on www.antiquefabric.com. I love that site.


This one is from Ricrac.com (Sharon's Antiques)

This is from antiquefabric.com