A Mini Art Quilt Finished...

I finally finished this little painted and embroidered piece I started last year. I had intended to finish it as a postcard but decided to add a binding and make it into a small art quilt, instead. So, the other day, with my Ott-Lite magnifying lamp powered by the generator (we lost electricity for about 12 hours), I hand stitched a piece of vintage double fold seam binding (from my mom’s old stash) to the edges. I buttonhole stitched around a tiny nylon washer (from the hardware store) and attached it for an unobtrusive hanger and added a signed and dated label to the back.

Work in Progress...

I’ve been happily stitchin’ away – but still have miles to go! Then I’ll need to decide if I’m adding beads. (I’m pretty sure it’s screaming for beads!) I didn’t realize I was using two different shades of white thread until it was too late (D’oh!), so I will either have to pretend that I meant to do that or unpick and restitch a couple of areas. I’m really trying to talk myself into the first option! Anyway, I’m pleased with the graphic nature of this and it has given me ideas on how to finish a couple of other UFOs.

Meantime, we’re battening down the hatches here near the Jersey shore. Stay safe, everyone!

POWDERZ AN LOSHUNZ AN BYOOTIFYIN STUFFS

I'm currently taking Susan Sorrell's fun Sketchn'Contour Embroidery mini class at Joggles. She always comes up with the most intriguing ideas! And since this month's Sketchbook Challenge is "Everyday Objects," I decided to sketch some of the skincare and cosmetic containers in my bathroom closet. Drawing these things made me chuckle and think of Joni Mitchell's song "Sweet Bird."

"Sweet bird you are
Briefer than a falling star
All these vain promises on beauty jars
Somewhere with your wings on time
You must be laughing"

Another Dress for Ellowyne

Here's another dress from a vintage pattern. Again, the instructions didn't call for a lining, but I lined it in tulle, including the skirt. Easy!

Everything Old is New Again...

I made these two outfits from vintage Revlon doll patterns. I love how they fit Ellowyne – and I figure the vintage look suits her storyline as a girl who thrifts her wardrobe. Many of these patterns don’t call for linings but I decided to try adding a tulle lining to the midriff top. It worked out great – and it’s a lot easier than fussing with pressing ¼” seams on curved neck and arm openings. And, of course, the inside is a lot neater. Plus, it’s a time-saver because separate darts don’t need to be made for the lining. Instead, the darts are sewn into the tulle and fashion fabric together.