Hey everyone! I hope you are doing well. My husband got someone to fix my sewing machine for me, and I am so happy! I am a mess without my sewing machine. This isn't a finished project but I started messing around with little blocks.
I usually start with 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" blocks, so that when I sew them, the finished block is 1" x 1" for a miniature sized quilt. Usually 6 blocks across is a good start.
My latest project (which seems to be taking longer than normal) is a farmhouse style cottage.
Little quilts, applique is one of my favorites. Containers of flowers, little pillows, and kitchen tea towels.
And I usually have a wool felt project or two that I work on. In the evenings when my hubby watches his favorite shows I usually do hand sewing. It is calming after a day of working at hospice. In California the anxiety level of people in the health care department is rough because of the pandemic. But we are holding steady. I hope you are too.
One thing I had to share with you is that I received as a wonderful gift from Gail @kensingtonminiatures a Two sets of hot cocoa drinks. She also sent me the most amazing Eggnog serving bowl and little cups. Oh my! She is so talented as a miniaturist.
Here is how I do the blocks above....I sew two strips together that are about 1 1/2" wide and 30 " long or so....I sew them together And press flat. Then I simply cut a 1" x 1" square, nothing fancy, Then you just pin the square on the diagonal, making sure the corner points are directly on the seam. Then cut out. I also do this by hand while sitting watching tv. I know you can use the rotary cutter, but again in the evenings, when we come in and sit down after a long day, I like to work on projects I can do by hand.
And I will be honest I don't have the stamina to do a big sewing project at the end of the day. But if I cut out all the pieces, and have them ready, all I have to do is begin sewing when I have a day at home.
I always look for vintage farm animals to use in my farmhouse displays. This little sheep is at least 40 years old!
The little pillow below and the coordinating throw will be featured in an upcoming American Miniaturist Magazine.
Little projects here and there keep me going. I love to sew. It is very calming for me and a good way to unwind. But it is usually the weekend when I am able to put everything together.
I hope you are doing well, I think of you all often and wonder how things are going in your neck of the woods. California is in a very turbulent time, and anxiety is running high. My husband and I are seeing it every day. He is a chaplain for our Hospice and is absolutely incredible at what he does. I think it is a comfort for people, the family members just to be able to have someone to talk to and pour out their hearts to. Anyhow I am thinking of you!
Blessings,
Debbie Booth
