May is for Makers

I purchased a pattern from Abby Glassenberg Design/www.whileshenaps.com while I was still in rehab. I had the best intentions of sewing it as soon as I got home but it didn’t happen. I am going to share it anyway, as a May is for Makers post. I strongly believe that we should support independent pattern makers by purchasing their patterns. So here’s a review of this cute Patchwork Elephant pattern.

This model shown was made using a jelly roll, but you can simply use yardage or anything you want. The only other things you need are 2 button eyes (or not - if for a baby ink or embroider the eyes) and stuffing. The finished elephant is 12” long x 4” wide x 9” tall. There are instructions to cut and sew a jelly roll into yardage. Next you cut out the pattern pieces. Very clear instructions with photos guide you step by step to assemble your elephant. Lastly, stuff and close. Ears, tusks and tail are made separately and attached to the stuffed elephant. Isn’t it cute? I have a two year old great-niece that I must make one for. I think she’ll love it.

I’ll be back on Wednesday with the first block of the 101 Patchwork Patterns by Ruby McKim quilt. Please stop by and check it out. I am writing detailed instructions that will be available to download as a pdf. I will also include a photo tutorial on how to sew the block. A beginning quilter should be able to make this block with no problem.

One final fun thing I want to share. There is a blog hop starting on June 1^st that I was going to participate in, but had to withdraw. Each blogger will have a small project to share that fits the theme Opposites Attract and uses only three fabrics. Please visit http://www.seamstobesew.com/opposites-attract-starts-this-wednesday/ for a list of participants. I’m looking forward to meeting some new quilters.

Thanks,

Mary

Art Deco Monogram Q – T

This installment of Ruby Short McKim’s Art Deco Monogram Font is Q to T. The column shows a couple sample uses of the font this time. There is an odd lady in the center with a monogram on her shoulder, and a shirt at the bottom that uses the monogram on a pocket. I checked Wikipedia for the definition of a monogram and it says: “A monogram is a motif made by combining two or more letters to form one symbol.” They are used for individuals, companies, corporations, and even royalty. I found an interesting article from a fashion historian about the use of monograms in the 1920s. And there is even a seller on Etsy who will design a custom wedding monogram.

To download a pdf version click here.

I’m very excited to announce that I will be participating in a blog hop in June. Each of the Opposites Attract participants will be offering a small project using three colors. The idea came from the wonderful two color quilts, like the red and white quilt exhibit in New York City a couple years ago. But designing with just two colors can be a challenge so the organizer, Marian at Seams to be Sew, chose to use three. I know what colors I am using but haven’t finalized a design yet. Maximum size is 35” x 50” so I’m thinking of a table topper/runner. The hop is being sponsored by The Fat Quarter Shop.

Have a great weekend,

Mary