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 4^th 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.