Monday 10 September 2012

Bags, dogs and blocks

We are at the finishing line – it is the last week on the Zakka Sew-along trail.  And what a trial trail is has been. I shall blog later in the week about my reflections on the sew-along and the book!  Right now though I want to share some creations that have crossed my path recently.

Firstly, remember my button bag (and the bruised thumb and dented table)? 
I mentioned that my sister was making a variation on the bag that did not use those darned self-made buttons.  Instead, Lea has appliquéd hearts in a rainbow of colours. 
Her version is stunning – set on  turquoise linen with a pretty flowered lining.  This is something I have learned along the Zakka trail – that improvisation is good – that a pattern is there to be adjusted to suit your needs and tastes. Lea’s bag is a perfect example.  The pattern was easy to follow with plenty of diagrams and I would recommend this book as a gift for yourself or others.

Next, take a look at the Patchsmith’s Scottie Dog Mug Rug pattern.

Susie (Susie’s Sunroom) has added a Christmas background which makes those two lovely little pups look ready for the festive season.
And on the back ....... checks. 
 
What a perfect combination – checks and Scotties just go together so well like ‘scones and cream’, ‘tea and cake’, ‘hives and bees’ and ‘leaves and autumn’.  Which brings me onto the Glorious Autumn block.
 
It was the first week in the Glorious Autumn Block Party.  Three designers set out their autumn blocks.  I was hoping for a patched block but the first three designs all use applique.  I really enjoy quick-fuse applique and the patterns lend themselves to this method really easily.  I decided to undertake the very first block, Pat Sloan’s ‘Pop-a-Licious’ flower block.  For me Pat’s block needed an injection of the red and checks that I love.  So I fused reds and mustards onto an autumn leaf background square.  I think you will agree – it is very in keeping with The Patchsmith’s style and looks good.    I have added it to the Glorious Autumn Flickr group.

(Talking of which, I have set up Patchsmith Patterns Flickr Group - you can see Susie's mug rug, Amy's mug rug and my patterns so far.  But I am looking forward to seeing more interpretations of my patterns.  As all patterns are really affordable there is little to lose - start with making your own Patchsmith Pattern - play with it - have fun - and then post to the group.)

This is all good preparation for October 4th when I shall be sharing my Glorious Autumn block with the UNIVERSE – “Flash ah-ha saviour of the universe – dum-dum, dum, de-dum”.  Sorry, I digress or should that be regress?   Back on topic.  I am also going to host a give-away on that day which will include fabric and patterns so put it on your Zakka Messenger Board.

But enough for now, I need to get on and make a medium sized quilted box for the very last excursion into the Zakka Style Sew Along. 

10 comments:

  1. Love your block and the lovely reds it's superb.....although I'd rather read your 'Flash Gordon impression' than listen to it first hand - 'What's that you said I've gone a trifle deaf!!!!!!!!

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    1. I must tell you, Lea , that your button bag really IS stunning! Talent , creativity, and a delightful sense of humor definitely runs in your family!

      Susie

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  2. Oh dear, the last zakka project. Can you believe it? Love your version (o:
    And yes, adjusting and making a project your own is really what I learned from this book. It was a very good process though, but I don't think I would dare to publish a book like that, without having tested all the patterns myself.
    Your sister's bag is great and the mat by Susie is so cute.
    How is the book: Everyday handmade? Would you make all projects from it, like the zakka book?

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    1. There is only one project in the book I wouldn't make - a soft-toy-reindeer which is on the front of the book!!! Just not me. There is a lovely ladybug purse, a holder for knitting needles, a selvage wristlet, a shoulder bag, a messenger bag (we've already been there, done that and got the t-shirt - Zakka style!!), coasters, tea service set, apron, pot holder (ditto to previous comment), an ipad case (for a guy), a zipped box bag (make-up bag size), e-reader cover, pocket book wallet, a sewing set (ditto) and a baby quilt. All lovely projects. I have only made one so far so cannot vouch for them all but we are doing them all at work in a sew-along I set up (glutton for punishment). Are you joining the handcrafted holiday sew-along (button on rhs)? Hope so. Hope to stay in touch.

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  3. Such a great post...so many pretty projects and giggles!

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  4. I do love how you melded your Pop-a-Licious block with your style and taste! And thanks for showing us Lea's beautiful bag!!
    I just can't wait to see your block on Oct. 4th!!

    Susie

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  5. You are definitely one of those people I'll remember from this SAL. You done a great job! Have you made all of them?

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    1. Didn't do the first project as I was late to the SAL. What have you got planned to do next?

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    2. I signed up for groovy quilt along. I felt in love with that pattern.

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  6. Hi. Nice works in the Zakka sew along. Love this nesting box you made too. You've mention the holiday sew along is next and I would also love to take part. I'm mentioning the same in my next blog post. I'm a newbie in sewing and still struggling at times to do curved or intricate sewing details using my machine. It's always good to participate in these sew along to practice my skills. Thanks for posting that handmade book, I'll review them online and see if I'll end up buying them too.

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