Elephant Library Bag

I know, I know that title isn't exactly inspired but I'm not feeling very creative at the moment so it'll have to do.  Sorry!  I do, though, think that it is high time I blogged about this little library bag - which I finished over a month ago for my friend's then-nearly 1 year old darling daughter.


I modeled the size and shape after this library bag so it just consists of a simple tote construction with a pocket on the front.


As you can see, I chose very girly-girl fabrics and then couldn't resist adding a little elephant applique to jazz things up.  I'm definitely in an elephant loving phase at the moment.


That's it basically.  It was gifted along with some fun little board books, but I can totally see it being used to carry around all sorts of precious goodies, as Miss N's imagination grows.  I hope she likes it!

E.

Linking up to Sew Cute Tuesday over at Blossom Heart Quilts.
 

Yes, this was also a finish from my Making Christmas list. To see the final breakdown, click here.

Making Christmas - The Finale

Hellooooo.  I hope you all survived the crazy Christmas and New Years period.  Hubby and I had a lovely break in Adelaide, South Australia, with his family but we're now back home and looking forward to a HUGE year ahead, with hopefully lots of sewing, work around the house and, of course, special moments galore with baby girl.  Exciting!!

Before all that, though, I thought I'd better do a final check over my Making Christmas list - just to see how I did.  Admittedly not all was completed but I am rather happy with how I went.

Here's the final summation...

1. Robot Embroidery Library Bag

FINISHED!

Blogged here

As the intended recipient of this book bag was born just 5 days after another bub in the same group of friends, I also thought that I'd better make a second bag for baby #1.

Blog post to come

UPDATE 14/1/14 - Blogged here

Success!  I admit, I am having a bit of a love affair with elephants at the moment so I just couldn't resist.

These bags have both been gifted for Christmas, with some gorgeous board books.

2. Personalised Cushions / Pillows

FINISHED!

Blogged here

Yes, just the one, but considering that this listing was always a maybe-but-probably-won't-happen, I'm pretty happy with that.

3.  Kindle Cover

FINISHED!

Unfortunately I don't have pictures of this finish (yet) as it was a last minute effort the night before my early Christmas celebrations with the family.  I know, I know, that sounds really dodgy but please believe me - I did get it done and the Kindle fits inside nicely and my Mum is happy.  True story!  :)

4.  Bear Paw Quilt

FINISHED!

 Blogged here

5.  Toffee Shards Quilt

FINISHED!

Blogged here

6.  Wonky Stars Quilt

*cough*

Sad face.

7.  Softies for Mirabel

I am terrible, horrible, awful but my Softies for Mirabel project just didn't happen this year.  I know, disgusting.  Sorry kids!  I will have to make it up with extras next year.  :(

8.  Reorganisation of my Sewing Room

Yeah, this didn't happen BUT it will very soon.  We have plans for some new shelving and a new layout.  I am soooooooo excited, it's quite ridiculous.  Stay tuned.

Phew!  Not bad, if I do say so myself.  

Now I'd better catch up on my blog reading - you guys have been busy while I've been away!

E.

I missed the last link up for Making Christmas - but that's ok.  Huge thanks to Janine and Rebecca for hosting this wonderful event.  I love that it kept me accountable and on track!  Thanks lovely ladies!

Another Personalised Cushion

Earlier this year we welcomed our latest niece into the family - which means, of course, I made a quilt (this one) - so when it came to thinking about Christmas gifts I couldn't stop thinking about a personalised cushion to match.

I decided on a rather simple patchwork construction, using all the same fabrics as her quilt.  I wanted it to match without being overly matchy-match.  If that makes sense.  I'm not sure I quite achieved that but fingers crossed it isn't too much when they are paired together.

For the initial, I stuck with a dark pink solid, attached in a raw edge applique style.  I do so love this quick and easy method and, well, it gives me a chance to practise my FMQ.

I also stuck with simple when it came to the quilting - straight lines 1/2" from each seam.  Quick, easy and effective.

The binding is just the same solid used for the initial.  I think it frames the madness of all those prints really nicely.

And, then, for the back I just had to use the adorable print which inspired the whole colour scheme of the original quilt - these owls by Ann Kelle.

So cute and wacky!

As per usual, a zipper finishes it all off.

The final size is a rather large and cuddly 22" square - with a 24" insert used in these photos, as that's what I had on hand (hence the extra puffiness).

And that's it - all ready to travel east next week for the big day.  Hope Miss L likes it!

E.


Linking up to Sew Cute Tuesday at Blossom Heart Quilts.

Also crossing this personalised cushion off of my Making Christmas list.  You can see my latest update post here.
 

AND... I'll be linking up to the party for the Cushion for Christmas Blog Hop at Ms Midge.

Making Christmas - Week 9

As I was playing hostess for week 8 (you saw my post and tutorial for the Lollipop Nose Critters, right?!) I missed the link up - so thought an update was now in order.

Here's how my list is looking, with under a fortnight to go.  Ahh!

1. Robot Embroidery Library Bag

FINISHED!

Blogged here

Still yet to start (or even think about, to be honest) library bag #2.  It needs to be finished by this Saturday.  Hmm...

 2. Personalised Cushions / Pillows

FINISHED!

Blog post to come.

This will probably the only personalised cushion I finish for Christmas... but I do have a few others planned for the near future.

3.  Kindle Cover

Still no progress on this one.  Sorry Mum.  Again.

4.  Bear Paw Quilt

FINISHED!

 Blogged here

5.  Toffee Shards Quilt

FINISHED!

Blogged here

6.  Wonky Stars Quilt

Um, yeah, this one is still waiting patiently to be basted.

7.  Softies for Mirabel

Still no progress since choosing the pattern (Barthelomew Bunny by Shiny Happy World) and cutting out the pieces.  Sorry kiddies.  :(

8.  Reorganisation of my Sewing Room

No progress, other than dreams.  There has been lots of those.


So how are your makes for Christmas shaping up? Are you feeling on top of it or has the panic started to set in?

E.

Linking up with the lovely Lucy, from last Saturday (yes, I am slightly behind).  Pop by to see her unique cross stitched Christmas ornaments - and maybe even spy one made by yours truly.  ;)

A Most Unusual Bear

I was first inspired to make a Bear Paw quilt when Lucy and Janine joined forces and announced their relaxed, no-pressure bear-paw-along, waaaay back in May.  I straight away wanted to play along but it wasn't til a few weeks later when (1) I found this gorgeous Paddington Bear fabric... 

... and (2) a good English friend announced her pregnancy... that a plan was formed.

Here's a rough sketch of what I was thinking...

... and here's how it, kindly dubbed "Paddington's Paws" finished up, at roughly 40" x 40".

It is definitely bright and colourful.  Just perfect for the little man born just a mere 2 weeks and 2 days ago.

Even though I've been a bit brave recently and have started experimenting a little more with new-to-me quilting techniques - I kept this one quick and simple with my usual go-to wavy lines.

Maybe not the best choice to truly showcase the Bear Paws blocks but I do quite like the crinkled effect it finished with.

A stripey binding completed the look.

I have discovered that I'm quite partial to a stripey binding.  Unfortunately I originally had this fabric pegged for my wonky stars quilt - so fingers crossed I still have enough!

Lastly, here it is being modeled outside by my wonderful hubby.  I just can't decide which is cuter. ;)

And, yes, that is a "truffle shuffle" tee.  It's one of his faves and everyone seems to comment on it.  I still have no idea what it's all about...

E.

Linking up with TGIFF over at Quokka Quilts. 
 

Happily, this is also another finish from my Making Christmas list.  I think I'm still on track!  Watch out for an update tomorrow.

Making Christmas: Week 8 is HERE!

Today I am stoked to be hosting this week's Making Christmas link up with a super fun & super easy tutorial so please come on in.

If you are new to my little part of Blogland, my name is Erin and I hail from the gorgeous Perth in Western Australia.  I have dabbled with various craft forms nearly my entire life and even though I now spend more time quilting than anything else, I still can't resist the occasional opportunity to play with paper, scissors, glue, felt pens and, of course, glitter.  So, on that note...

... please allow me to re-introduce the rather adorable Lollipop Nose Reindeer.

I first showcased this tutorial last Christmas (see here) but as it was mind-blowingly popular I thought I'd write up a little update this year, with a printable PDF pattern AND templates.  And not just one little reindeer template, oh no, now you can also make a cheeky elf and a rather handsome Santa.  Fun!

I have to say, these little critters are so cute - you'll want to get the kids together and make a whole bunch.  They are perfect for everyone - especially as gifts for classmates.  Write a little message on the back and you don't need to include a separate card.  Win win!

Cute, yes?!

Want to make your own?  Well, of course you do.  So... I am proud to offer everyone the tutorial and templates for FREE.  Yippee!  All is ask is that you rightfully respect my pattern and not re-sell it in any way, shape or form and/or any items made from it.  Fair enough?  Good-o.  :)

DOWNLOAD
the free printable PDF (with templates!)

Sorry but you will need a Craftsy account for the download but, if you don't have one already, never fear - they are free and easy to sign up for.  Plus they are definitely worth having to access some amazing and creative patterns and classes.  You'll be gobsmacked, believe me.

I truly hope that you have fun creating these lovelies.  Please, please, please send me pics if you make them as I'd love to see!

That's me done for this week.  A BIG thank you to Janine and Rebecca for organising this fabulous blog hop and allowing me to play host.

Next Saturday will be hosted by my lovely friend Lucy.  In the meantime, if you'd like some more information on Making Christmas, then check out Janine's post here.  It's not too late to play along so grab a button and write that list!

<div align="center"><a href="http://rainbowharequilts.blogspot.com/2013/10/making-christmas-2013-week-1.html" title="MAKING CHRISTMAS 2013" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1223.photobucket.com/albums/dd507/rainbowhare/MakingChristmaslabel150.jpg" alt="MAKING CHRISTMAS 2013" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Now, it's over to you.  How is your Making Christmas list shaping up?  Link up with your latest blog post showing off your progress.  We are here to ooh and ahh and cheer you on afterall!

E.

Working It

I know I've been a bit quiet of late but I have been still getting my craft-on, I promise.

Firstly is the Bear Paws quilt which is now at the binding stage which means, drum roll please, he's nearly finished!  That is very exciting news as baby boy was born just last week so we will hopefully be visiting for our first lot of cuddles very soon!

Sorry about the dodgy IG pic.  :)

Next up is my Wonky Stars quilt for another friend's brand new bub.  I've finally decided on a quilting plan for this one so will be basting it soon.

Both these quilts are on my Making Christmas list so it will be nice to have them done and dusted.  :)

Speaking of Making Christmas, I've also been busy finalising my tutorial for this Saturday.  Yes, that's right, I'll be hosting then so be sure to pop back and see what I'm sharing.  I promise - it's cute and fun!  :)

Lastly, I've also been mulling over my entry for the next Le Challenge (theme: PRECIOUS) and now that I've finally settled on what I'm making it's time to start gathering supplies and getting to it.  Yay!

Will you be playing along too?  There is a $25 voucher to the Fat Quarter Shop up for grabs.  The link up opens on December 15.

Think that's enough for now.  What about you?  Been working on anything special?  Please share!

E.

Linking up with WIP Wednesday at Freshly Pieced.

An Update on Making Christmas

I haven't done an update on Making Christmas since my first list (blogged here) so thought it was high-time I checked to see where I'm at.  Thankfully, I'm happy with my progress - and even a little surprised.  Go me!  ;)

1. Robot Embroidery Library Bag

FINISHED!

Blogged here

 2. Personalised Cushions / Pillows

I've made a start on one of these - with the top pieced and ready to applique with our niece's first initial, 'L'.

For this one I went with a simple patchwork design, using the same fabrics as the Owl Plus quilt - as it is for the same littlie.  Hopefully they work together well, without being too over-the-top.

3.  Kindle Cover

Absolutely no progress on this one.  Sorry Mum.

4.  Bear Paw Quilt

No progress on this one either but as bub is still yet to arrive I'm ok with that.  ;)

5.  Toffee Shards Quilt

FINISHED!

Blogged here

6.  Wonky Stars Quilt

This top has been done for nearly two weeks now - but other than choosing a backing fabric nothing else has happened here.

Blogged here

Have I ever mentioned that I hate basting?!  ;)

7.  Softies for Mirabel

I've decided on an easy pattern (Barthelomew Bunny by Shiny Happy World) and have already cut out most of the pieces.  Now I just need to rummage through my mess and relocate my felt stash for the hands, feet, nose and tail.

Of course, the rummaging-through-my-mess part doesn't sound like my idea of a good time and, as I've been itching to do something about the horror that is my sewing room I thought I might add to my original list...

8.  Reorganisation of my Sewing Room (*new*)

Granted, this isn't a make but, as it is integral to the success of future endeavours, I'm going to include it here.

I mean, seriously, something has to be done!  My first plan is to steal these gorgeous scrap buckets.  ;)


So how are your makes for Christmas shaping up?  Don't forget to keep checking in each Saturday for added inspiration - and keep remembering to link up with your progress reports (*ahem*).

E.

Linking up with M-R.  Hop over to see her post showing you how to make your own festive Card Holder.

Toffee Shards

I have to admit, I am in shock... BUT... Toffee Shards is finished!  Can I get a 'whoop'?!

Making this baby quilt (measuring 38.5" x 38.5") has been an eventful journey.  My original concept was shattered toffee, in honour of Le Challenge, back in June/July.  It was pictures like below that inspired me.

To (sort of) achieve this look, I went with a simple HST design, in a variety of yellow and brown solids... but, even though I had the top finished in plenty or time - I forgot to link up.  Doh!

After that... I totally fell out of love.  They aren't "my" colours.  I wasn't feeling it.  It just wasn't happening.  I tried a number of times to start quilting... but each attempt ended in complete frustration and time with the unpicker.  Ugh.  So... Toffee Shards languished.

Thanks, though, must go to my hubby and the lovely Kristy who continually encouraged me to get this done AND for Making Christmas (yes, I'm ticking this off of my list!) for pushing me that extra little bit I needed.  It worked and I was happily able to gift it yesterday morning, to a gorgeous 5 month old boy.

To continue with the shattered toffee theme I ended up settling on simple, crazy lines (yes, my go-to quilting at the moment) which helped turn this unloved piece into something nearing completion and starting to warm my heart again.

Then I just finished it off with more of the orange-y solid, which really makes those colours pop.

As the Mum not only loves neutrals but also green, I chose this adorable dinosaur themed fabric for the back.  It is perfectly boy-ish!  Funnily enough, I have since found out that it is actually Buddy, a character from TV's Dinosaur Train.  Hmm... who knew??

Sorry about the shadows but this was the quickest photoshoot ever - on the way to gift this quilt.  Nothing like doing things last minute!

Anyhoo... YAY!  It's done.  I am happy, happy, happy.  :)

Thanks again to those who helped me stop procrastinating... and to Lucy & Nat of Le Challenge for being the inspiration behind the whole idea.

Speaking of Le Challenge... I'm jumping back into the fun this month with the theme STRIPES.  With such an easy subject that can go in soooo many directions (*groan*) there is absolutely no excuse for you not to join in and create something awesome.  There is a $25 Fat Quarter Shop voucher up for grabs so check it out!

E.


Linking up with TGIFF, hosted last Friday by Jen of Quilter in the Closet.  You only have a few more days to get in your finished entry for OctoberQuest so quick sticks.  :)