Spool {}

Dollar Store Supply Craft Challenge - Placemat

2010-03-28T12:46:00.005-04:00

Here's my entry for the Dollar Store Supply Placemat Craft Challenge!
This is a Dopp Bag aka Toiletry Bag aka Something To Put Your Shower Stuff In :)
It's due earlier than the pillowcase challenge so I hurried.

Another Interesting Challenge and Fabric for the First Challenge

2010-03-22T18:14:00.006-04:00

I love to make things out of placemats! But so far I can't see this one in my head...still thinking!

Now this one I can see already (although things seldom ever turn out the way I see them!) Here are the fabrics I picked out for the All People Quilt Quarterly Challenge. This one's a stash buster too! The fabric is a $2.50 markdown and the denim came from a clearance chair cover :)

I Ran Across This Challenge The Other Day...

2010-03-15T08:17:00.002-04:00

I ran across this challenge the other day and it keeps rolling around in my head. I think I may give it a try!

All People Quilt Quarterly Challenge

Whatever Happened to Spool?

2010-03-07T21:14:00.002-05:00

Well, I got sick, and then I was in the hospital, and then it took forever to recuperate. But I am back. If anyone was doing the 3D Applique Project, let me know and I'll finish it up as a pdf...the Tshirt I was using is already too small for my daughter. They grow so fast!

Maybe I'm kidding myself and no one noticed my absence :)

So, back to business. I have no projects in the works yet. I did grab the name Spoolishness on Etsy and thought I might make some kits. I get bored too fast making things over and over, and I am usually not comfortable with my first attempts to sell them. But I can make an easy to follow tute, so I'm considering tutes with supplies (erm, that would be kits, right?).

June Craft Challenge Voting is Here!

2009-06-26T07:23:00.003-04:00

It's time to vote for the June Christy's Craft Challenge! My fishy is there, but my favorite is the Bride Guest Book Doll. Check it out :)

Join us in August for the next Craft Challenge. It's a lot of fun being creative with specific materials to use in your masterpiece :)

June Craft Challenge is Fishy!

2009-06-21T18:19:00.005-04:00

Here's my entry for Christy's June Craft Challenge! A Fish Closet Pommander. Just add herbs inside the tail fin (yes, up his butt) and hang for a sweet smelling closet.

Btw, I was one of the winner's last month (Chisty's pick, awww *blush*). We have a challenge vacation next month, but come join us for August!

This month's packet contained an empty toilet paper roll. Just for the record, the roll is inside the fishy holding the packet of herbs in place :)

Finally!

2009-06-15T07:14:00.005-04:00

Finally finished my big programming project and I can get on with the rest of my life!
Here are some curtains I made for Sadie to keep the spookies at bay...

Featured in Turkey!

2009-05-29T06:45:00.003-04:00

Spool {} has drawn the attention of an extremely cool website in Turkey called 10marifet.org! I can't read it but the owner has an awesome collection of craft postings from around the world. Check it out!

Featured on Craft Gossip!

2009-05-24T10:33:00.005-04:00

Anne at Craft Gossip is great at finding projects for the Craft Gossip Sewing blog.
Check out all the projects she posts daily!

She's also says the nicest things :) My slippers are on a Lookie this morning!

Christy's Craft Challenge May

2009-05-23T13:19:00.006-04:00

All done with my Craft Challenge entry for May! Click the link to join us next month!
I made these slippers by wrapping paper around my feet, then smoothing out the paper to cut the fabric. They were fun to make but a little too fiddly for a tute. Here are a few pics anyway :)

Watch for classes coming soon. The first class is a freebie!

I love these! I've been wearing them ever since I finished them and they feel great!

I Don't Have Any Projects to Share...But Check Out My Cool Iron!

2009-05-17T15:56:00.003-04:00

Well, I got some sewing in today! Too bad I didn't finish anything...but I'm working on some good stuff :)

In the meantime, I'd like to share my newish iron. It's fabulous and amazing and was only $20 at Target! I love my good deals you know :) So, the name of this most fabulous and thrifty iron is the Black and Decker Steam Xpress. It has a very steamy steam button and gets hot hot hot. Since I use a lot of interfacing it's perfect.

It has other good stuff too, like a no steam switch (who cares - we need steam!) and different settings for different fabrics (if you have to turn the iron down to iron the fabric you probably can't put the fabric in the dryer, so again, who cares!) and an auto shutoff switch set at 30 seconds in case the iron is left lying on it's hot side (well I guess that's good, although I'm really not planning on leaving the iron lying around, since I love my fabric and all...). As I was saying, it gets hot hot hot and has a steamy steam button :)

Did You Know?

2009-05-08T20:07:00.004-04:00

Wild Ginger Software has a free downloadable pattern drafter. It's called Wild Things and will draft patterns for bags, hats, belts, wraps, and slippers. Of course it's very simple software - it's free after all - but there's a wider range of bag patterns than I expected to see. They also offer a free non-printing clothing pattern drafting demo. While it doesn't print, it might be good for inspiration...

Christy's Craft Challenge May

2009-05-07T20:13:00.002-04:00

I received my packet from Christy for the May Craft Challenge! It has pretty blue fabric and floral paper. I wonder what I'll do with the fake flowers! So much fun making something with predefined limitations :)

Come join us! Click on Christy's May Supplies pic to learn more!

Family: The Man

2009-05-04T21:21:00.004-04:00

Here he is: The Man.
Very helpful with pickle jars and hammers.

Spoonflower Fabric - Home Decor Weight

2009-05-03T13:04:00.003-04:00

I had my kitty illustration printed on home decor weight fabric. I like the weight, but it's expensive! I'll probably stick with quilt weight. I also submitted a color card pic to get a sample size, using basic colors from the program I use to make my little illustrations (erm, that's just MS Word, lol!). Maybe I'll be able to get the color right on the fabric if I know what the color looks like before I use it!

Featured on Craft Gossip!

2009-05-02T19:39:00.003-04:00

Thanks again to the very sweet Anne, we are on Craft Gossip!
If you've never been to Craft Gossip, run on over - they have all the best stuff!!

Free Table Runner Valance Tutorial!

2009-05-01T21:27:00.005-04:00

Need some instant sewing gratification? Here's a super quick project that will have you happy in no time!

This Table Runner Valance will fit windows that are 48" to 54" wide. The basic formula for a gathered cafe type curtain is window width x 1.5. So 50" x 1.5 = 75".
Table runners are 72" long - close enough, the valance just needs a bit of gather in it.

1) Buy It
Buy a table runner off the clearance shelf, and a 1" or less flatish curtain rod.

2) Pin It
Fold over one long end 3", enough room for a .5" seam allowance, a 1.5" pocket, and a 1" header.

3) Sew It
Sew 2.5" from the fold, and then 1" from the fold.

4) Show It
Finished! Hang it up and take a bow!

Free Game from Big Fish!

2009-04-29T21:38:00.002-04:00

I love Big Fish Games! Now, if I only had time to play the games I've downloaded...
One of my favorites is Azada. Here's a code for a freebie from them in case you have time :)

The info I have says...
To redeem your gift certificate, follow these easy steps;
Visit www.bigfishgames.com/azada
Hit the BUY NOW button (don't worry, it's been paid for)
Log in or create a new account with Big Fish Games
Use this coupon code by 5/31/09
FREEAZADA

Featured On One Pretty Thing!

2009-04-28T09:58:00.000-04:00

Hooray! So much fun to be featured on such a lovely site :)
Thanks Rachel (she's such a nice person!)
Check out all the wonderful things she links to each day!

Christy's Craft Challenge April

2009-04-27T15:07:00.001-04:00

The finalists are in and voting has begun! Here's my entry...

Psst...I'm a finalist!

Featured on Craft Gossip and Classes in the Works!

2009-04-26T15:03:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Anne the cushion tute is posted on Craft Gossip! Thanks Anne!

Erin, I'm thinking of moving this tute to a Classes page at the end of 30 days. If I do, I'll offer the 1st class on this tute for free. So if you are still having trouble (and are still interested!) at the end of 30 days - come on in! I'll be here :)

New Tutorial Free for a Limited Time!

2009-04-24T21:37:00.002-04:00

Shower Curtain Chair Cushion Tutorial
Free for 30 Days!
After that I'm going to...do something with it...to be decided...

We are going to make chair seat shaped, piped, kitchen chair cushions with a button closure and ties to secure it to the chair. The pillow inside can be removed so the cover can be washed (try getting yogurt drink out any other way!).

Buy: A standard 72" x 72" fabric shower curtain with 12 pre-made buttonholes ($5.00 each at Target super duper clearance), 4 cheap pillows ($2.79 each at Target), and 20 yds of 6/32" piping ($3.00 each at Walmart). One shower curtain should make four cushions. Also needed is 1 button (size to be determined), and 1 yard of bias tape, ribbon, or laces for the ties.

Cut: Click to see the cutting layout full size. My chair measures 15" in the back, 17" from back to front, and 19.5" at the front. About 3/4 of the way from the back, the width is 18".
I decided to go with that number since 72" (the width of the shower curtain) divided by 4 (the number of cushions) is 18".

1) Cutting the buttonhole piece
Layout section A, cut 1 per cushion 2.25" x 14".

The buttonhole piece is being used as a layered opening to allow the pillow to fit in and button close. The middle buttonhole is being used normally, but the two side buttonholes are being used with the ties.

Cut the top off the shower curtain 2.25" from the top.

My chair measure 15" along the chair back edge. We are using less than 15" to keep the bulk out of the corners. The edges of the side piece will wrap around the back a little to adjust the fit of the short buttonhole piece.

Make sure you check the placing of the buttonholes before you cut the long top piece into 4 cushion pieces. There should be three buttonholes in each cushion piece - one on each side close to your chair back corners and one in the middle (at 7").

2) Cutting the bottom for the buttonhole piece under layer.
Layout section E, cut 1 per cushion 2.25" x 14".
This piece will include the pre-sewn bottom hem.

3) Cut the rest.
Layout Sections B, C, and D.
Cut 2 18" x 17" per cushion
Cut 2 1.5" x 72" per cushion
Cut 1 2.25" x 55" per cushion

4) Shape the 18" x 17" cushion pieces
Mark the center from back to front. Square up the 18" x 17" pieces on the cutting surface. Place a ruler 7.5" from center mark at the back, and the outer edge at the front. Trim this edge to cut the cushion top and bottom into chair shape.

5) Sewing the piping.
The foot needs to be changed from the normal 1/4" or zigzag foot to a zipper or piping foot. I used a zipper foot and locked my needle in the far left position so I could sew as close to the cord a s possible. This worked just fine. Trim the piping to 1/4" from the sewn line to the edge. I have to confess I did not check to see it was 1/4" as I went. I just eyeballed it, but it worked.

6) Add the piping to the top and bottom cushion pieces.
Start at the back, a few inches from the corner, and a few inches from the edge of the piping. This will leave room to join the ends. With the right side of fabric facing up, line up the raw edges of the piping to the raw edges of the top or bottom piece.

Still using the zipper foot, sew along the piping, clipping the corner about 1/4" before the turn. Turn with the needle down, arranging the piping neatly as you go.

Stop sewing a few inches from where you began. Make sure you've rounded the corner so the piping is joined on a straight side. See the 1st photo under 6) showing where to start and stop the piping. (You may notice the fabric in that photo is square. I sewed the piping all the way around, and then noticed I had forgotten to trim the edges for the chair shaping! Next tutorial may be about how to quickly rip through a seam with an extremely cheap seam ripper...)

To join the piping, Pull back the fabric on one side and clip the cord only on that side. On the other end, clip the cord inside the fabric, so the ends of the cord butts up against the other.

Clip the pulled back fabric about an inch from the edge. Fold the edge under about 1/2" and wrap the protruding 1/2" of fabric around the side of the cord that was clipped covered. Sew down along the edges to complete the joining of the piping. Do this to both the top and bottom cushion pieces.

7) Putting the buttonhole piece and overlap together.
The pieces that allow the cushion cover to be removed are: the buttonhole piece (layout A), the overlap piece (layout E), and the no-seam side piece (layout D). Pieces A and E overlap each other 2", leaving 1/4" on each side for the seams (2.5" total). This matches piece D (also 2.5").

Piece A and E should overlap each other with their finished edges, leaving the raw edges to sew to the cushion top and bottom (B pieces), and the no-seam side (piece D).

Lay piece E on the table, with the right side facing and the finished side away from you. Lay piece A on top, also right side up, but with the finished side towards you. Lay piece D on top of piece A and E, right side down. Sew A, E, and D together, matching the side seam of D with the sides of A and E.
8) Attaching the side piece.
Lay the cushion top on the table wrong side down with the short side (chair back side) facing away from you. Mark the center of the short side. Pin the center buttonhole of piece A, right sides together and raw edges aligned, to the center of the cushion top short side. Sew close to the piping, snipping the curves, all the way around to the unsewn edge of pieces A and E. Sew together pieces A, E, and D when they meet. This will keep most of the worry about proper fitting out of adding piece D. Finish sewing piece D to the cushion top. Only one piece left to go, the cushion bottom.

9) Adding the cushion bottom.
Careful fitting here is very important. We know the cushion top and bottom match, but it's possible the piping pulled a little on the top or bottom while it was being added. Turn the cushion top and center piece inside out. Right sides together, carefully pin the corners, then the center sides, of the cushion bottom to the center strip. Continue adding pins as needed. Sew the cushion bottom to the center piece, with the cushion bottom on top. Get as close to the piping as possible, gathering or pulling as needed to ensure the fit of the bottom to the top and sides.

10) Add the button and ties.
Get out your stash of buttons and find one that fits. No stash of buttons? Measure the button hole, subtract 1/8" and that's the size button you need for a flatish button. Sew the button on piece E under the center buttonhole. Cut the bias tape in 2, fold in half, and sew the center of each to piece E under each end buttonhole.

11) Add the pillow.
Open a seam in the pillow and pull out (or cut away) 1/3 of the stuffing. Resew the pillow seam. Stuff the pillow into the cushion cover. Smooth the cushion cover as evenly as possible. Button the center button, pull the bias tape through the buttonholes, and tie the cushion to a chair. All done!

Christy's Craft Challenge April

2009-04-18T16:22:00.011-04:00

I made a journal for Christy's April Craft Challenge. I tried a new technique with the burlap and leaves, a little free motion quilting just to get my feet (fingertips?) wet. It worked out and was fun! The clip on the journal is the spring from the clothespin I needed to use. I had no idea how hard it would be to Krazy Glue a glass bead on a metal clip! They just didn't want to stay on. More brute strength and compromise, lol! I used some of my special fabric for the inside :)

Christy gave us some very nice supplies for this month's challenge. She calls it a combination between green and bling. See the screen print and click the pic for details on how you can play too!

Giveaway Winner and New Fabric

2009-04-17T08:28:00.004-04:00

The book giveaway winner is Grateful Gramma, chosen by random number at random.org. Thanks so much to everyone who commented! I feel much less alone in the blogosphere now, lol! Look for me to drop by your blogs soon to make everyone else feel less alone in the blogosphere :)

I just got some fabric printed at Spoonflower. I don't think I like it as well as my Daisy fabric, but its still worth a smile!

Easter, Easter, Easter!

2009-04-15T12:09:00.005-04:00

Not another Easter post! Sorry folks - just couldn't resist adding my darlin' girl to the mix :)

And thanks for all the nice comments on the giveaway! I've made some new friends and that's always fun! I'll be dropping by everyone's blog soon to say hi :)
The winner will be announced Friday and the books will go out asap...
as soon as I get to the post office, lol!

Photos Courtesy of The Man

Book Giveaway!

2009-04-11T22:22:00.004-04:00

I'm cleaning out my library! Up for grabs is a book artist's pair. The Penland Book of Handmade Books and Somerset Apprentice Premier Issue.

To win this pair of beautiful books, just comment. That's it! I'll announce the winner on Friday, April 17th (Eastern US date/time).

Edit: Grace brings up a very good point (I'm sorry Grace!). This giveaway is limited to the US. These books are way heavy and the postage is too much outside of the US!

Photos Courtesy of Amazon and Stampington

Download Free Tutes by Spool {} as .PDFs!

2009-04-08T06:30:00.009-04:00

Tutorial posts are great but we all like to take them home for later. So here's the .pdf version of all available tutorials by Spool {}. To get here in the future just click Downloads on the sidebar.
Thanks for looking!

Table Runner Valance

Shower Curtain Chair Cushions
Free for a limited time!

Place Mat Expanding File

Place Mat Handbag

Wristlet

Book Review

2009-04-07T16:13:00.003-04:00

Is it possible that someone has missed Inspirations Magazine? I doubt it, but just in case, let me rave on about it for a sec. I love, love, love embroidery. Unfortunately, the kind I like takes lots, lots, lots of patience. So I drool over Inspirations.

At $16, this magazine is a bit out of my magazine price comfort zone, so I diligently scout the Joann's in my area waiting for the next issue to appear. When it appears, I swoop down and grab it, frantically looking for the 40% discount coupon I know I stuffed in my bag somewhere...

The most recent issue (Issue 61) has pics, patterns, and charts for the most amazing projects. The cover shows an embroidered bear that I'd be so proud to be able to display as my own *sigh*. Inside are more and just as beautiful projects: A tape measure cover that is anything but ordinary, A French Etui in linen with rose button made from clay includes matching projects for a pincushion and scissor fob, and a Botanical Stumpwork bluebell project. Ah...the time to sit and embroider...maybe after I'm old and have had cataract surgery...

Good Luck Lady Amulet

2009-04-06T06:04:00.001-04:00

This amulet is for a scrap swap, so she's made from bits and pieces. I backed her with interfacing, glued her to a piece of leather, and added a cord. She can be hung from the rear view mirror or worn like a necklace. She's a bit first try-ish, and I can think of a few improvements, but I like her ok...I hope the receiver likes her too!

More Inchies!

2009-04-05T06:46:00.000-04:00

I sent 6 inchies to Malaysia for a swap but they didn't get there - so I'm sending replacements!
Here they are...I wonder if anyone would want some of these for a giveaway?
Spool {}'s 100th post is coming soon...

New Illustration

2009-04-04T11:46:00.000-04:00

Mama Birdie

T-Shirt Redo

2009-04-02T06:39:00.000-04:00

This is a plain craft store tshirt, cut off at the bra-line and neck, with added fabric and trim.
Note to self: No yellow, A little more tummy room, A little less boobiness :)

Quilt Top Finished!

2009-04-01T06:30:00.002-04:00

The quilt top for the LFA Beginning Quilting is finished! I'm pleased with it, but not ready to back and quilt yet. I might add some blocks, I think I want flannel instead of batting for the inside, and I don't have a long arm so I have to decide on a finishing method...all that for another day though!

Family

2009-03-31T13:33:00.001-04:00

My daughter.
She's so beautiful...
*sigh*

Photo by Jay Nolan (her daddy)

Under Construction!

2009-03-28T19:24:00.004-04:00

My first quilt! I have the nicest instructions from the LFA Yahoo Group (we do free fiber arts classes), although I'm deviating from them just a bit. The blocks are finished and the layout is pictured below...here's my under construction Spring Garden Quilt!

Something New...

2009-03-26T21:57:00.000-04:00

I've added a .pdf download section in the sidebar. The place mat expanding file tute is ready for download. I'll be getting the other tutes (and future tutes!) added soon.

Christy's March Craft Challenge

2009-03-25T06:37:00.001-04:00

The voting has begun! Check out the entries! Join us for April, it's lots of fun :)

My Kind of Sale!

2009-03-24T21:49:00.003-04:00

It might take some digging but that makes a good bargain all the sweeter! Use code ADCL324 at the checkout to get an additional 30% off items in the clearance section. Good through 3/30/09.

Featured at Tipnut!

2009-03-22T08:39:00.002-04:00

Yay! So much fun!
Tipnut picked up this months Place Mat Expanding File tute for its March 25 Neat-O Projects to Make

Christy's March Craft Challenge

2009-03-20T19:58:00.008-04:00

The way the Craft Challenge works is you are sent an envelope with supplies that must be used in a craft of your choice.

This month the supplies had an Easter theme...not my fave! Pink fabric, pastel button, big 'ole pearls, and plastic Easter eggs. I could have made a pink bunny I suppose, but I didn't want to make a pink bunny.

So here's what I did make - a thread catcher with pockets for scissors and a seam ripper (which I use more than I want to admit!), and a mini pincushion. The buttons anchor the thread catcher under my machine, the pearls are like little knobs I can use to hold the pockets open, and the ribbon keeps the scissors from falling on the floor. I don't know how functional it is yet :)

Edit: This turned out to be surprisingly functional! I love it - no getting up and down looking for stuff while I'm sewing.

Bandanna Pincushion Project

2009-03-18T20:59:00.007-04:00

Not what you would expect from a bandanna? Me either...but it just sat there day after day, asking for lace and pearls. Too small for a bag, what to do, what to do...then a pincushion swap came along! I hope the receiver likes pink and girlie :)

Looky What I Got!

2009-03-17T18:46:00.003-04:00

I won the loot from Sue and Terri's giveaway! Aren't they beautiful? I'm almost afraid to touch :)

Family

2009-03-15T08:15:00.002-04:00

Here's my princess in her pink castle. The black and white creature is Emma our Boston Terrier.

With a Lot of Compromise and Brute Force...

2009-03-14T20:11:00.006-04:00

Whew! This Dern Saddle Bag is finally finished. What a fit it gave me! And really there's no reason for it to have been such a problem.

Design flaws, I expect (Designed by that Spool {}, you know!). I usually like to make design flaws into "features" (learned that in database programming, hahaha), but this dern thing just would not cooperate. Only sheer grit and tenacity won out.

I already put my stuff in it and I'm planning on carrying it until...I guess until I get tired if it, lol!

Bottlecap Pincushion Project

2009-03-12T19:09:00.004-04:00

These fun little things are bottle cap pincushions! Here's a tutorial by Craftstylish for how to make them. I want to spruce them up a bit but I'm afraid to overdo it. After all, how do you accessorize leopard print!

Featured!

2009-03-10T21:35:00.001-04:00

The Placemat Expanding File is featured at Whip Up, One Pretty Thing, Swap-bot, and Friends Stitch in Israel! Wow!

Edit: Dollar Store Crafts too!!

Nintendo DS Bag

2009-03-08T15:38:00.005-04:00

Sadie saved up and bought a Nintendo DS. It took her 4 months. She's 6. I was pretty amazed, so the first thing I thought of was to make a bag that would keep it from falling on the ground or getting lost. Here's my version of the across the body, Nintendo DS game holder with 3 game pockets.

Free Placemat Expanding File Tutorial!

2009-03-07T05:09:00.005-05:00

How To Make an Expanding File From Placemats.

I save magazine patterns. I guess I could scan them, but then I'd have to print them again and that would be a waste of paper. So I save them in an expanding file, but it's plastic, and ugly. So, I made one I like better! This project is extremely quick. Reading the directions will probably take longer than sewing it up!

1) Supplies
4 placemats with a bit of heft to them, 1 yard of 1" wide reversible trim.

2) Make and Attach the 1st Fabric Folder
Fold one placemat in half, right side out and short sides together. Pin along the edge to mark the fold. Unfold and lay flat on the table, right side up.

Overlap the 1st (pinned) placemat with a 2nd placemat, both right side up. Bring the edge of the 2nd placemat even with the pins in the center of the 1st placemat. Pin the 2nd placemat to the 1st. Topstitch along the edge of the 2nd placemat, leaving about 1/2" unstitched at the top and bottom.

Refold the 1st placemat (the one that was pinned on the fold earlier), insides in, and sew the short sides together, topstitching close to the edge, leaving about 1/2" unstitched at the top only. There should be space to sew all the way down to the bottom, since we also left 1/2" when attaching the 2 placemats.

You should have what looks like a fabric folder attached to one inside short side edge of a placemat. Here it is standing on end with the help of Sadie's Cooperation Jar. You can see the short sides of the 1st placemat are sewn together.

3) Make and Attach the 2nd and 3rd Fabric Folders
Lay the flat placemat right side down on the table with the fabric folder to the right and laying away from the placemat. Fold the 3rd placemat in half, insides together, and place the fold 1" away from the fabric folder fold. Pin along the fold. This will be the sewing line, so don't skimp on pins. Also, it's helpful to pin with the heads facing toward you, since you will be removing the pins as you sew and you don't want to stab yourself. Add a couple pins to the bottom layer to stabilize.

Unfold the 3rd placemat and sew along the pin line, reaching under the first layer and pulling out the pins as you get to them. This takes a little coordination (but not as much as it takes to keep from sewing the cats paw into the project!). Remember to leave 1/2" unsewn at the top and bottom. Refold and sew the short sides closed, topstitching near the edge, leaving about 1/2" unstitched at the top only.

Meet Cotton, my daughter's kitten :)

Do the same for the 4th placemat, folding in half right side out, placing the fold 1" away from the 2nd fabric folder, pinning the fold, stabilizing the layers, sewing along the pin line, leaving about 1/2" unstitched at the top and bottom, and sewing up the short sides, leaving about 1/2" unstitched at the top only.

Here's what you'll have now - 3 fabric folders setting on top of a placemat.

4) Sew the Fabric Folders Together
Here's the tricky part (anyone thinking of a Fig Newton?), sew the inner folder sides together to connect all 3 folders. Remember we stopped 1/2" short from the top when stitching up the sides? That's so we have a smidgen of room to stitch the tops of the folders together. Pinch the edges away from the edges being sewn. Stuff that edge under your presser foot and do the best you can to topstitch near the edge. Sew all the way across to the other edge and finish.

5) This could be finished
Just flip the placemat over the fabric folders.

6) Or we can add the trim.
The trim acts as a magazine stash in the inside back, and fastener in the front.

Cut a piece of trim double the width of the placemat plus 3 1/2" inches. This will allow a 1/2" seam overlap and 3" for your file to grow and still fasten. Form a loop out of the trim, overlap the edges 1/2" and zigzag. Decide where your fastener will look best on the front of your file, remembering to allow room for the flap to shorten as the file fills.

Unfold the flap and place the trim where you have determined it looks best from the front. Line up the zigzagged seam on one side and sew across the zigzag a few times to anchor. Anchor the trim to the other side of the back, smoothing away gaps. The fit allowance should only be in the front of the file.

7) All done!
Fold the fabric folders back over the anchored trim, slipping the folders inside the trim loop. Fold the top over the fabric folders, tuck the front inside the trim, and you're all set!

Did You Know?

2009-03-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Did you know you can download a free pdf creation program called CutePDF Writer? With this you can print any document and select CutePDF from your list of printers, automatically creating a pdf.

You'll see this on their download page

Installation Requirements

Supports Microsoft Windows 98/ME/2000/XP/2003/Vista (x32/x64).
Requires PS2PDF converter such as Ghostscript (recommended).
You can get the free GPL Ghostscript 8.15 here.

I totally ignored the PS2PDF converter notation and had no problems (I use XP).

The pdf program comes in handy when someone does tutorials on their blog. Just highlight the entire tutorial, copy, and paste into a Word doc. no need to save the Word doc, just print using the CutePDF selection and save. Cool, huh?

Embarrassed No More!

2009-03-05T10:25:00.005-05:00

I whipped these bags up at the speed of light, giving no time to niceties like squaring edges and even seams. I was embarrassed to show the girls in the Brownie troop the bags I had made them for field trips (well, mostly I just didn't want them to keep handing me stuff to carry!).

What I found was they were delighted to have the bags and more delighted to know they could decorate them with paints at our next meeting and earn a badge doing it! Our newest member even cried (the girls are 6 and 7 years old) because she didn't have one made for her yet (poor thing!).

I am no longer embarrassed by the quick (ahem, even shoddy!) workmanship. Instead I feel all warm inside knowing they appreciate the bags so much :)

By the way - these are made from flour sack table napkins.

Bloggy Giveaways On The Grapevine!

2009-03-03T20:33:00.011-05:00

Choice giveaways this week :)

Craft is giving away 2 copies of Button It Up! Tomorrow at 10AM is the deadline...

The Benner Daily is giving away 5 fat quarters! Deadline is this Saturday!

The Fabric Shopper is having 5 weeks of giveaways! Deadline for Week 2 is March 8th!

Happy Giveaways to Everyone!

Inchies Project

2009-03-02T05:02:00.000-05:00

I thought I only needed to do 3 inchies for the swap, but I was wrong! Here are the rest - whew!

Thinking of Getting an OttLite?

2009-03-01T14:54:00.002-05:00

Now is a good time. This one is on sale for $29.99. The shipping was $10 or so (less I think) and the price includes a bulb. I bought one and am soooo pleased with it. Not only do I get great daylight balanced lighting for projects, but it keeps me awake! I work at home and it can sometimes be a challenge to stay awake when it's quiet and I've only had 6 hours sleep. Thanks to my Ottlite I've had less naps and gotten more work done lately.

The Red Tags Call My Name

2009-02-28T11:56:00.003-05:00

I found a new Treasure Chest! And boy what a deal! I'm itching to get my fabric in there, dreaming about how I will organize it. and how much extra room I'll have.

Here's the best part - can you see the price tag? The original price was $129.99 and the clearance price was...wait for it...$16.24!!! I thought there was a mistake, so I picked it up and hurried for the cashier before they could change their minds :)

Happy Clearance Sales to everyone!

New Look for Spool {}

2009-02-28T06:31:00.001-05:00

As you can see, Spool {} has a re-design! Many thanks to Sara Bonds! The cost was very reasonable. She did a great job and was very patient. Check her out if you need a fresh look.

Inchies Project

2009-02-27T16:42:00.005-05:00

These little guys are called inchies. I hadn't heard the term before I joined the Inchies Swap on Swapbot. I really didn't know what to do, so I just made my illustrations tiny, printed them out, and Modge Podged them to scrapbook paper covered watercolor paper. Modge Podge seems to be my friend lately. They kind of remind me of little memory cards...

Book Review

2009-02-25T20:38:00.005-05:00

Well it's actually a magazine. I love reusing, recycling, repurposing, restyling...re-whatever-ing!
There's 25 projects, and I'll bet anyone who takes a look will find something they like. My favorites are the T-shirt Tunic, Lumberjack Revival (flannel shirt to girlie vest...note to self: the word revival has a nice ring to it...), Quick Change (coin purses from broken umbrellas...yup, broken umbrellas...), and the No Fuss Necklace (choker from lace and buttons). Not bad for $6.99.

Photo courtesy of Taunton

Altered Journal Project

2009-02-23T21:23:00.007-05:00

My first altered journal project! I did this for a swap on Swap-Bot. I don't know if anyone can tell, but the mermaid is supposed to be going through a portal to an ocean world :)

This isn't a tute, but if anyone is curious, here's what I did:

I have a bunch of craft stuff on hand all the time, so the whole project only cost $1.37 plus tax.
I had the sea fabric in my scraps (hooray for scraps!)
I bought a clearance journal for $1.37 and glued an oval of the fabric on like a portal using Modge Podge.
Then I drew a mermaid, cut her out, and painted her with acrylics.
After she dried, I glued her (again using Modge Podge) to the oval, leaving part of her "hanging" out.
I butchered a bracelet for some glass beads and using Sobo glue this time, I squeezed a line of glue around the portal and dropped in the beads.
After the Sobo dried clear, I put on 2 coats of Modge Podge over the whole thing - even over the beads.
When it dried I saw the beads looked a little over Modge Podged and I might choose a smoother cover next time, but overall I liked it.
I gave it the Sadie test...and she said "Ooooh I want one" so I guess it turned out ok :)

Featured at Tipnut!

2009-02-23T21:09:00.006-05:00

I am so very pleased to say my wristlet tute was featured on Tipnut as one of 30 Neat-O Projects to Make in February!

I was so excited I started thinking of new tutes, and came up with an idea for March - it involves a red tag sale shower curtain...

Paper Piecing Project

2009-02-21T09:23:00.005-05:00

This is my first attempt at paper piecing. The project was sooo easy and quick. I think the end result is pretty dramatic too.

The basic process is pinning a scrap to a paper design, sewing the scrap onto the paper along a preprinted line, folding on the next line, trimming the seam, lining up the next scrap, and sewing again. That's it!

The instructions came from a free class on the Learning Fiber Arts Yahoo group.
I love this group! They (we, now I guess!) have a ton of ongoing FREE classes. Check it out!

Featured at One Pretty Thing and Dollar Store Crafts!

2009-02-20T21:26:00.005-05:00

Two places in one day! Both One Pretty Thing and Dollar Store Crafts!
I'm so happy :)

Here's the Tute...

Bloggy Giveaways On The Grapevine!

2009-02-19T21:12:00.004-05:00

Photos courtesy of the giveaway holder's blogs

Sue and Terri of Two Creative Studios is having a fabulous giveaway to promote their new book: Creative Ways with Fibre and Stitch! I love all of Sue's creations and Terri has some pretty terrific stuff too :)
Deadline to enter - Mar 6

Yummy Goods is having a 2 year blogiversary fabric giveaway!
Deadline to enter - Feb 20.

Art Gallery Fabrics gives a peek at her new line and says to stay tuned for a jumbo giveaway of 50 fat quarters! Wait for it, wait for it...

Fabrics I'm Liking This Week

2009-02-18T16:04:00.004-05:00

Ooooh Batiks! I wonder why it took me so long to find the batiks?
I like so many I'll have to start with a color scheme.
This week is water.

Kaufman Artisan Bali Batik Tango Sea Turtles Blue
Timeless Treasures Tonga Bali Batik Medallions Forest
Hoffman Bali Batik Cobblestone Mosaic Turquoise

Photos courtesy of Hancock's of Paducah

Patchwork Horse

2009-02-17T13:42:00.003-05:00

Here she is - Miss Sassy the Patchwork Horse! Sadie hasn't seen her yet. I hope she likes her...

New Illustration

2009-02-16T17:18:00.004-05:00

The other day, Sara Bonds called my Owl Mama an illustration. Since the little designs are new stuff to me, I hadn't thought of it quite that way. I liked it though, so thanks Sara :)

My newest illustration is Sunny Sally. She makes me smile...

The Best Book!

2009-02-15T15:21:00.000-05:00

I just received my (signed!) copy of Sue Bleiweiss and Terri Stegmiller's
Creative Ways with Fiber & Stitch.
I sat down with my diet Coke with lime and my sticky notes and prepared to stick a note on the projects I wanted to do. Well! I started stickin' and stickin' and then realized I had stuck every project so far! So I threw away the stickers and resolved to work my way through the book, project by project :) I'd have to say this is the best book I've seen in the past year!

Take a look inside!

Sadie's Next Request

2009-02-14T08:40:00.001-05:00

Sadie would like a stuffed horse. Luckily she'll accept almost anything I make, so here's the fabric I put together for it. And here's the pattern (photo courtesy of Simplicity).
Dare I risk a bad joke and say "A horse of a different color"...well, ok, sorry :)

The Red Tags Call My Name

2009-02-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

Target has had some great clearance lately! This time I got a shower curtain with a pretty brown and blue pattern - and button holes. I'm thinking pillow covers...

My Spoonflower Design Fabric is Here!

2009-02-12T21:13:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited! It looks great! I only have a fat quarter, so I'm trying to decide what to make out of it...

CSPC Shares Some Guidance for Crafters

2009-02-10T06:35:00.003-05:00

Get the full dope

Click the pic to see the table better

Designs By Melly & me Bushfire Appeal Auction

2009-02-09T21:13:00.005-05:00

Designs By Melly & me, Australian designing sisters, are having an auction to help the victims of the Victoria bushfires.

Just one of the offerings is their way cute Freya Doll.

Victoria Australia

2009-02-09T12:58:00.002-05:00

Just taking a moment to wish everyone in the Australian fires the best of luck. Good wishes coming out to you all!

Spoonflower Design

2009-02-07T22:23:00.001-05:00

Here's my latest attempt on Mama Owl. She now has a home!

Featured at Whip Up!

2009-02-07T09:31:00.004-05:00

Once again a Too Cool day :) It makes me smile smile smile!
Here's the post.

Bloggy Giveaways On The Grapevine!

2009-02-05T16:41:00.005-05:00

Look at this cute felted hedgehog on The Benner Daily! Giveaway ends Saturday.

Stash Giveaway on Some Art Talk! Giveaway Ends Valentines Day.

100th Post Tote Giveaway on Maple Creek Blog! Giveaway ends 2/11/09.

Book I'm Liking This Week

2009-02-04T12:39:00.003-05:00

This is such a great book - so many pictures, patterns, and projects! It's spiral bound and lays flat, too. What's not to like!

Click the pic and go to Amazon

My Creative Space

2009-02-03T14:00:00.001-05:00

Here's where I sew, and my daughter uses her laptop, and we do our craft projects...glad the kitchen table isn't used for eating, lol! The thread cabinet is "100 Spools of Thread".

Spoonflower Design

2009-02-02T09:39:00.000-05:00

Meet Mama Owl! I wonder if I should print her...

Free Placemat Bag Tutorial!

2009-02-01T12:56:00.014-05:00

Here's a fast project that can be made between the "Hey Mama?"s and the "Hey Honey?"s.

The Placemat Bag

1) What to Buy:
Buy a placemat with a little heft to it. If it's too thin the bag will be too thin, and there's not a quick way to add interfacing in this project.

Make sure the placemat looks good folded in half (with the fold down) since that's how the bag sews up. There are some adorable placemats out there but they don't all look good folded in half!

Photo: Red Tag Sale Placemat (and same placemat folded in half)

2) Making the Handles:
The handles are 1"x3" rectangular cutouts in the center of the short sides. Lay the placemat right side down on the table. Working on the back or lining side of the placemat, measure the short sides of the placemat. Mark the centers with a pin. Measure down 1" at the center mark. Using a water soluble pen (or chalk), mark that spot, then measure 1 1/2" to either side of the center and mark those spots too. Draw a line between these marks. Now measure down another inch from the line, mark, and draw a line. Square these two measurements off so that a rectangle 1"x 3" is in the center of the short side of the placemat, 1" from the edge.

Photo: Marked handle (click to see larger photo and the marks)

Next, set the machine to buttonhole stitch (zigzag about 1/8" wide at about .5 - 1.0 stitches). Zigzag around the line once or twice, keeping the line to the inside (to the left of the zigzag). This will stabilize the fabric.

Photo: Sewn handle

Cut the fabric out of the inside of stitching, as close to the stitching as you can get. Zigzag again around the edges, making sure to catch any raw edges inside the stitch. Go around two or three times until it looks nice, depending on the color and makeup of the fabric.

Photo: Cut Handle

Photo: Finished Handle

3) Sewing the Sides:
With the placemat folded right sides and handles together, stitch up the sides about 1/4" from the edge. Back stitch at the top. The sides are already finished so there's no need to worry about raw edges.

Photo: Pinned Seam (small seam allowance)

4) Creating the Gussets:
Smooth out your bag flat, right sides still together. Place a pin in the bottom crease right at the side seam. Measure up 1" from the bottom and mark with the water soluble pen. Turn the fabric over, still inside out, and mark 1" up from the bottom on that side too.

Photo: Marked Gusset

Looking at the photo, open the bag (still inside out) and place the bottom of the bag on the table. Press down on the corner seam to make a triangle with the seam straight up and down from the point to the base. Verify that the bottom fold is directly under the seam. Use the pin for direction. The marks should now make a line at the base of the triangle. Sew across these lines from edge to edge to form the gussets.

Photo: Open Gusset

Photo: Sewn Gusset

5) Turn your bag right side out and enjoy!

Photo: Finished Gusset

Fabrics I'm Liking This Week

2009-01-31T11:55:00.003-05:00

Hollabee's Sumor in Teal/Natural

Joel Dewberry's Aviary Sparrow in Almond

Ikea's Gunilla in Black/White

CPSC Grants One Year Stay

2009-01-30T19:42:00.001-05:00

CPSC Grants One Year Stay of Testing and Certification Requirements for Certain Products

Spoonflower Design

2009-01-30T06:25:00.004-05:00

I tried Spoonflower and I'm excited! Even though it's just a simple design :) I don't draw well enough to have it printed on fabric so I looked for a simple program to use and decided on MS Word. It gave me enough simple shape and shape movement choices to do what I needed.

So...I ordered a fat quarter to see how it does!

The Red Tags Call My Name

2009-01-29T09:49:00.003-05:00

I love Target Clearance. Especially now, it seems like there is a LOT of clearance. I picked up a 2 panel drapery and a placemat this week. The drapes are 42"x84" panels, cotton sailcloth ($12.50) and the placemat is quilted ($2.50).

I think I got a better deal on the shower curtain I bought from there, but I do like the tabs at the top of the drapes.

I'll be re-purposing these items as soon as I think of something to make out of them!

This dern (that's Baltimore for darn) thing!

2009-01-28T21:00:00.006-05:00

I'm having a bit of trouble with my latest project. I wanted a heavily interfaced hands free hip bag, and by golly that's what I'm going to have - even if it kills me, lol!

All I have to do is force the inside (shown front) to fit the outside (in back)...

Books I'm Liking This Week

2009-01-24T20:00:00.002-05:00

I have a project in the works...hope to finish soon.
In the meantime, these are books I'm liking this week! The pics are all courtesy of Amazon.

Free Interfacing Swatches Update

2009-01-22T08:44:00.003-05:00

The Pellon Swatches are Here! They are teeny tiny but still cool :)

Fabrics I'm Liking This Week

2009-01-21T09:41:00.005-05:00

Birch In Robin's Egg (Lara Cameron/Ink & Spindle)

Neptune (Tula Pink/Moda/HOP)

White Graphic Blooms (Marie Osmond (oh well I like it anyway) Quilting Treasures)

Featured at One Pretty Thing!

2009-01-19T19:57:00.008-05:00

Wow! The wristlet tutorial is featured at One Pretty Thing! I'm honored! Here's the link..

Free Interfacing Swatches

2009-01-19T08:52:00.004-05:00

Both Pellon and HTCW said they will send out a free swatch book. I'll post a pic if I actually receive them.

"Thank you for your interest in Pellon products. We have a swatch book with all of our products in it, for free of charge. Would you like us to send you one? If you would like us to send you a swatch book, please include your shipping address, no PO BOXES please, and we will get one out for you this week.

Thank you,

Miranda Norris

Pellon Consumer Products

877-817-8729"

EDIT: Misc. Muse called and was told the Pellon samples were only for businesses. Try the email address customerservice@shoppellon.com since that's how I contacted them with no problem. However, I did use my business email address, so maybe they didn't think to question it.

HTCW link here

Shopping My Stash

2009-01-18T11:50:00.003-05:00

Trying to decide what to do next...

Sadiepie Lost a Front Tooth Yesterday!

2009-01-17T08:45:00.003-05:00

S0 cute :)

Featured at Whip Up!

2009-01-16T19:01:00.003-05:00

How exciting! Featured in 2 cool places in one week. Smiling again from ear to ear! Here's the link...

Fairy Bag for Sadie

2009-01-15T15:22:00.006-05:00

My daughter handed me a drawing and said "Will you make this please?" How can I turn her down? :)

After asking some questions I find that she wants a pink "fairy bag" with a red rose and short handles. The curvy lines are vines, she said. She plans to "hit any Ogres that come too close" with it. :D

Here's the picture and here's the bag! Sadie likes it - she says its "mystical". I like her an awful lot :)

Added to a Tute List!

2009-01-13T08:57:00.002-05:00

The wristlet tutorial has been to The Princess and The Monkey's tutorial list with a pic. Another great day!

A Book for My Daughter

2009-01-12T13:36:00.005-05:00

I thought this fabric was too cute! I learned how to make these books in Sue's Journal Making for the Fiber Artist. The class was lots of fun :)

Thanks!

2009-01-10T15:59:00.002-05:00

I wanted very much to thank everyone personally who posted a comment to the new 100 Spools...but not everyone left an email address, so I'll just say thanks so much for taking the time to comment and let me know I am not alone!

Featured at Craft Gossip!

2009-01-09T14:32:00.003-05:00

How exciting! My wristlet tutorial is here on Craft Gossip. I'm just smiling from ear to ear :D

Joy
aka Spool {}
hehehe

Hat for my Daughter

2009-01-09T10:21:00.003-05:00

I made this hat for my daughter from one of her old sweatshirts.

Kitty

2009-01-08T20:16:00.002-05:00

A leather kitty I made from this pattern :)

Free Wristlet Tutorial!

2009-01-08T14:03:00.002-05:00

This is the first sewing tutorial I've ever written. I almost gave up several times!

Supplies:

Outside Fabric - 1 piece 9"x12", 1 piece 9"x18", 1 piece 7"x8 1/2",
1 piece 2"x14", 1 piece 3/4"x5"
Lining - 1 piece 9"x12"
Interfacing - 1 piece 9"x12" and 1 piece 7"x4 1/4"
1 Button

I'm using Flowers for Emma (Anne Sutton for Henry Glass) with cotton broadcloth lining
The interfacing is Pellon Fusible Fleece
The button is a 9/16" mother of pearl with a metal shank

1) Fuse the Interfacing:
Following the manufacturers instructions, fuse the 9"x12" interfacing to the 9"x12" outside piece. Fold the 7"x8 1/2" patch pocket piece in half (right sides out) so that it measures
7"x4 1/4" and fuse the 7"x4 1/4" interfacing sandwiched in the fold of the patch pocket piece.

2) Patch Pocket Piece:
The patch pocket piece is now 7"x4 1/4", with a layer of interfacing inside the fold. There's a fold side, and three open sides, two short and one long. Unfold the patch pocket piece and refold so that the right sides are together and the interfacing is clearly visible fused to one side. Sew the patch pocket piece on two open sides (one short side and one long side), with right sides together using a 1/4" seam allowance. Turn right side out again through the un-sewn short side and top stitch the top fold edge. This keeps the interfacing from moving. Press flat.

With the outside piece face down on the table (the fused interfacing is clearly visible), measure up 4 1/2" from the bottom. Fold along this line and pin. This will help determine the pocket piece placement. Place the BOTTOM (non-fold side) of the pocket piece 1/2" from the fold line, making sure the top of the pocket piece is about 3/8" from the top (see the picture as all this top and bottom stuff is confusing). Pin, unpin the outside piece from itself, and topstitch the 3 non-fold sides of the patch pocket piece, turning the unseamed short side in as you go.

Photo - Unturned Patch Pocket, Folded Credit Card Piece, Folded Outside Piece

3) Credit Card Piece:
Fold 1/2" to the back of the 9"x18" piece and press. Next we are going to fan fold the fabric to allow for 3 credit card pockets. With the fabric face up, measure 2 1/2" from the top where the 1/2" fold is and fold the fabric face up on itself (press as you go), then fold the fabric back down 2", up 2 1/2", down 2", up 2 1/2" down 2". at that point fold the rest of the fabric under at least 1/2". Press well.

Place your credit card piece on the right side of the lining 3" from the top and pin well. Stitch a middle line to divide the credit card pocket into two equal halves. Top stitch the top and bottom of the credit card piece. Baste the sides at the seamline.

4) Round the Flap:
Pin the outside with the pocket to the lining, wrong sides together. Then, trim of the corners off the flap (the short edge that does not have the pocket on it). I usually eyeball it but I've used plates and pans too. Make sure not to take too much off the top since the flap will neet to comfortably fold down over the patch pocket.

Photo - Credit Card Piece on Lining, Finished Patch Pocket

5) Strap and Button Loop:
Fold the 2'' wide strap piece and the 3/4" wide button loop piece in half lengthwise and then tuck the edges under to make a double fold binding-like wristlet strap and button loop. Topstitch each 1/8" away from the edge. Topstitch the strap (now 1/2" wide) 1/8" away from the fold edge as well. Zigzag the ends of the strap together to make a loop and turn so the zigzagged edge is inside the loop. I didn't take a pic of this step, but I made a small stand-in and snapped a couple pics.

Photos - Left, Zigzagged Strap - Right, Turned Strap

6) Putting it all together:
There are now 2 main pieces: the lining with the credit card pockets near the top of the purse, and the outside piece with the interfacing on the back side and the patch pocket on the right side. With right sides facing, pin the outside piece to the lining. The patch pocket and the credit card pocket should be inside and the interfacing and lining wrong side will be outside. Fold the button loop in half. Insert the loop inside, between the front of the lining and the front of the outside fabric (in there where the pockets are). 1 to 1 1/2" of the loop should be inside the seamline. Trim off the edges even with the fabric edges, and pin and baste.

Sew around the edges, making sure to leave an open area for turning. Turn, press flat, and topstitch across the top of the credit card pocket to keep it in place. Topstitch close to the edge around all sides (folding in your open area as you go) and again about 1/4" from the edge on just the flap area. Be sure to double stitch the button loop once or twice. The button loop should protrude from the flap about 1 to 1 1/2". As you can see, I forgot to add the button loop and had to add it later ;-)

Photo - Almost Finished Outside and Inside

With the stitched inside/outside piece flat on the table, outside down (you can see the lining and credit card pockets), fold the bottom part up like an envelope until the pocket piece can be fully seen and the credit card piece is fully covered. It will look like an open envelop with the flap still up. Pin the sides together, insides still inside. Add the strap to the right side seam (pinch the edge of the strap with the zigzag turned in and insert into the sideseam near the top) and pin. Now, topstitch both sides as close to the edge as possible. Fold down the flap to determine button placement and sew on.

Photos - Finished!

..and my primitive label :)

Spool {}