birds of a feather

I think people appreciate gifts you make just a little more than something you buy. I know my Grandmother does. She taught me to sew many years ago so I think it tickles her that lately all my gifts to her all handmade. This year I decided to add some decoration to her Christmas tree and make her some little bird garlands that I saw on SMS's Christmas in July post. I followed the tutorial to a tee and even bought the exact color felt and buttons. It was just too cute to divert from. I wanted to make sure this was a task I could accomplish well so I made a few with some scrap felt just to see how they turned out. Not too shabby but Grandma's turned out slightly better, sadly I forgot to snap a pick before I packed them up.

a classic modern tote

Purses. Handbags. Totes. Clutches. I love bags! If I'm not buying a new purse just because then I'm scouring the web for fun tutorials to make my own bags. This classic tote tutorial from Sew Mama Sew was incredibly easy to follow. I ended up making a few as Christmas gifts but I made one for myself to carry all my goodies to/from work everyday. I picked up the fabric from of all places, an eBay store: Emerald City Fabrics. I stumbled upon them a few months ago. I like the array of fabric choices, especially those kitschy ones by Michael Miller.

 

Pillows

Pillows. Easy peasy as far as beginner sewing tutorials go so this ruffled lovely didn't take too long to finish.

I used Sew Mama Sew's basic pillow tutorial to get me started. Especially thankful for the awesome sizing table. I printed that sucker out and it hangs above my sewing table for quick reference.

Flower detail inspiration also from SMS and their Turned-Edge Appliqué Pinwheel Pillow except I used some scrap felt I had laying around.

 

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Zipper Envy

It seems that of late everything I want to make requires a zipper which is okay except for the fact that I don't have a drawer full of them in my tiny/minuscule crafting space so I have to end up heading to the store and buying one. This completely goes against my 'let's just sew something' tonight philosophy that sometimes hits me.
 
So... after reading and re-reading Sew Mama Sew's Guide to Zippers I finally bit the bullet and bought a bulk set from Zip It Zipper Supply. They're still in transit but I can't wait to have loads of zippers on hand. I got a (2) assortments: (25) 12" in bright colors and (10) 9" in neutral colors- huzzah!!!