Scotties and the Simply Striped Pillow Blog Hop

The "Simply Striped Accent Pillow" Patchsmith Style

Sometimes a pattern comes along that is a rare find – a versatile, multi-use pattern that you will return to time-and-time again.  I knew, the first time I saw Susie’s “Simply Striped Accent Pillow” that this was just such a pattern.  

The Simply Striped Accent Pillow Pattern

This pillow can be made up to match any decor and that accent strip is suited to embellishment - whether that be patchwork, paper-piecing or applique.

I like all forms of sewing but I knew I had to put the Patchsmith stamp on my pillow, especially for this blog hop.  So I turned to a very early pattern of mine – the Scottie Dog Mug Rug pattern.  This pattern uses quick-fuse applique which is an easy way to add detailing to any item (you can find hints and tips on applique methods in the Mug Rug Basics tab at the top of this blog).  

Scottie Dog Mug Rug Pattern

The Scottie dogs in the mug rug pattern were just slightly too big so I printed the applique page at 80% of size to produce perfect little puppies. 

Once I had made up the pillow front according to the pattern (very easy) I hand-stitched three felt Scotties along the accent band.  (If you use felt make sure it is colourfast and can be laundered prior to use.)   I left a 1” gap between the dogs and the edge of the pillow to allow for the side seams.  

Three puppies waiting patiently.

No blankets were needed for these puppies - making this a super quick project.  All the little pups needed was a thin sliver of ribbon for their collars and some simple over-stitching for the eyes and noses.  

Simple over-stitched eyes and noses.

I just love the Simply Striped Accent Pillow pattern - it is versatile enough to adapt it to any pattern or you can add paper-pieced blocks, patchwork blocks or leave the band blank.

Three Scotties fit nicely onto the accent stripe

If you've been following along with this week's blog hop you will see that there is no end to the different embellishments and fabrics that can be added to this pillow pattern.  For my next pillow I am thinking three or four baby whales from my Animal and Pets mug rug pattern book.

Block 52 of my BAD (Block-a-Day) project   

What will you add to your Simply Striped Accent pillow?  Will you use a favourite piece of fabric or add a unique and personal touch through applique or patchwork?  

To help you decide, hop on over to Susie's Sunroom to see what the other blog hosts have been up to this week.

Until next time ......