Readin', Totin', Charmin', Shroomin'

The Practical Guide to Patchwork has been on my wish list for a long time. I was able to use some bonus points through my book club and get a deal since I always missed out on the blog giveaways. The book came yesterday and I'm enjoying the eye candy. The projects are really lovely, but what's nice about this book is Elizabeth Hartman covers every aspect of making modern quilts. From supplies to binding. It would be perfect for a newer quilter, although there are some intermediate projects. Check out Elizabeth's blog, Oh, Fransson! for even more inspiration. I have to limit myself to her blog because I want to make everything she's making! Surely she has other stalkers! ;)

I also unearthed this adorable book, Sew Darn Cute and have been thumbing through it for gift ideas to sew. I love quilting and craft books for the inspiration, and step-by-step patterns for newer sewists. I've learned so much from these authors.

I saw an ornament around blogland yesterday and it inspired me to make a little two-sided house ornament for my non-existent tree. Maybe this wee house would prefer being a gift tag on a present.

Approximately 10" x 13" x 4".

Lining and inner pocket.

And then I saw a super cool tote made with linen and patchwork squares.This tote bag tutorial, was surprisingly easy. I think I'm getting the hang of sewing projects. I adjusted the size and the bottom gusset? because I wanted a sturdy, taller tote. I applied fusible fleece to the outer pieces and then forgot to quilt the patchwork squares. I also forgot to do top stitching on the handles. It still turned out cute and definitely sturdy. Round two of tote making may be today. I ran out of fusible fleece, but I think regular quilt batting would do the trick and then I'll have to remember to quilt it.

Our guild visited a nursing home Tuesday to give residents some of our handmade quilts and other gifts. We gathered at Panera Bread and Rene', our prez, gifted everyone with gorgeous charm squares, which I promptly chopped up and made this mini for a swap. I've hoarded the rest. They were really pretty.

Another guild buddy, Julie of La Todera knows of my 'shroom fascination. Look at the adorable papier mache toadstool she made for me. I have her Plushroom Pincushions pattern/kit and can't wait to have some mushroom pincushions for my studio. The link above will take you to her Etsy shop which has her wonderful patterns. Check out the Asian Fan Purse pattern. I saw that bag in person and it is wonderful!

I hope everyone is having fun. Happy sewing!