November 13, 2011

zig zag doll quilt

Even though my Christmas crafting to-do list is growing longer by the minute, I took a break to make a doll quilt for the Pretty in Patchwork Lark Doll Quilt Contest.  You can see all the fabulous entries in the Flickr group.  Even though I don't have any use for a doll quilt, I found making one to be an excellent way to try a new technique without committing to a full-size blanket.  I had everything in my stash, so this didn't cost me a penny.  My zig-zag doll quilt:


I was pretty impressed with how well the top turned out.  I'm not much of a precision quilter, but most of my points matched up almost perfectly.  My little quilt measures about 13 inches by 15 inches.  I used gray fabric (leftover from last year's poodle skirt Halloween costume), a yellow and white floral from my stash, and Warm and Natural batting.  I made half square triangles and arranged them in a zig zag pattern.  (Sorry disappearing nine patch, but I think half square triangles may be my new favorite pattern--there are just so many options for arranging them.)  I machine quilted along the zig zags and hand-stitched the binding which took forever but I love how it looks.

This may end up on the wall of my sewing room as a cute little wall hanging.

November 11, 2011

give thanks sign

Aside from the Christmas tree, I usually don't do much decorating for the holidays.  I decided this year will be different, and I'm starting with some fall/Thanksgiving decor.  Using a 1 x 8 board my thoughtful husband cut for me, some paint, and a "Give Thanks" vinyl from Pick Your Plum, I made this:


I tried to layer the spray paint on the edges then sand it off for a worn look but it didn't turn out quite like I planned.  I may add some stain to the edges.  I'll put this on my mantle for a daily reminder to be thankful for all the blessings in my life.