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.

I Love Your Precious Heart

This month's theme for Le Challenge was PRECIOUS and it really got the cogs turning.  My original thought was "diamonds" but after much umming, ahhing and Google image searches I went off the idea.  Maybe one day I'll have a crack but not right now.  So, what next...???

Well, due to the soon-to-be-aired-in-Australia telemovie about INXS being advertised of late, I just couldn't get this song out of my head...


... and, wouldn't you know it, one of the lines just happens to be "I love your precious heart.".  Hello plan!  ;)

I pinned this Pixelated Heart cushion by s.o.t.a.k handmade a few weeks ago with the intention of totally ripping it off for bub's nursery and, seeing as I love to kill multiple birds with one stone, here is my entry.

For the background I moved away from the low volume squares used in the original work - and went with a solid in pale aqua.  I was nervous at first but really like the effect and it'll give me a good opportunity to practise some more of my mad FMQ skillz too.  ;)

I am mixing things up a little, though, and not intending to make this into a cushion - but rather a mini wall hanging.  I figure that baby girl probably has enough cushions for now (though I do have another planned... cough...).

Stay tuned!  :)

E.

Linking up to the last Le Challenge for the year!   Head over and check out the other entries. There are some seriously precious ones.  ;)

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.

Big Hearted Girl

When I first saw these Awesomeville panels by the uber talented cat & vee I absolutely fell head-over-heels in love with the Big Hearted Girl.  I mean, how could I not?!  When I mentioned to Cat, one of the creators, that I'd definitely be buying her if my bubba turned out to be a girl... she then informed me that they also stocked larger 18" panels for cushion covers.  Well then... SOLD!

When she arrived I may have let out a little squeal - I loved her even more.  She's absolutely gorgeous!  I was desperate to make her into a cushion right then and there but couldn't decide exactly what to do.

In the end, I stayed with simple - to allow her to shine all on her own.  All I added was some cute blue pom pom trim - an idea I stole from Cat herself!

Ahh... swoon!

I am so loving the pom pom trim too!  It was a first for me (but not the last!) so I followed this tutorial for help.  Admittedly it was a bit fiddly and a few pom poms might have not quite made it through unscathed - but it is totally do-able and worth it.  Just remember that slow and steady wins the race.  ;)

For the back I stuck with my usual zip method, and a few bright red prints that I had on hand.

Unfortunately I only had a 16" insert spare - so I'll have to buy a bigger one when I'm next at the shops.  I do so like a plump cushion.

And, because I know you're dying to see, here she is hanging out with the Cutie Scootie Patootie and Haphazard Chevron cushions.

I am loving how they look together!

Now, before I run, I must, must, must direct your attention to Kristy's post here.  She is today's Hostess with the Mostest for the Cushion for Christmas Blog Hop - and is also showcasing some gorgeous panels from cat&vee.  AND... wait for it... she may also have a little cat&vee giveaway in the works.  ;)

For more information on cat&vee check out their etsy shop, website and/or follow them both on IG - hellofromcat (Catherine) and hellofromvee (Vanita).  You won't be sorry!  I should also point out that this post has not been a paid endorsement - I am just a huge fan.  I'll definitely be shopping with them again!

E.

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

I'll also be linking up to the party for the Cushion for Christmas Blog Hop (on now!) at Ms Midge when it opens on Saturday 14th December.  Before then, be sure to check out all the fabulous ideas being showcased by some wonderful bloggers - and get working on your own cushions for Christmas!  :)

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.

It's a...

Yes, I've done it again.  I had the best of intentions to link up a project to last month's Le Challenge but, alas, I just didn't get it finished in time.   Typical!  But, seeing as I've had this project in my head ever since I first heard the theme of STRIPES I figure I'll still credit the amazing Lucy and Nat with the inspiration. :)

So, where exactly did I take my stripey-ness?  Well... I went straight (pardon the pun) to the drool-worthy Haphazard Chevron Pillow, from Quilting Happiness by Diane Gilleland and Christina Lane.

I am seriously considering picking up a copy of this book (the reviews are awesome!) but, lucky for me, I didn't have to wait to do this project as it is kindly being offered for free right here.  Thank you CrafterNews!

Regular readers will know that I'm keen to make a few cushions/pillows for bub's room and I thought this would definitely fit the bill.  Problem is - what colour scheme to use???  Pink or blue???  Well, truth be told, we actually now know...

Yep, it's a GIRL!!!

So, I went with  dark and light pink solids with a touch of white for some added punch (thanks Kristy for that oh-so-perfect suggestion).

The pattern was super easy to follow and I even managed to slightly adjust it so that my finished cushion came out at 14", rather than 12".

For the quilting (which isn't part of the pattern but I couldn't resist) I again used the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and give a new-to-me style a shot.  In this case it was concentric circles, as per this tutorial.

Ok, so she's not perfect but I'm happy enough.  Embrace the wonk, I say.  The hardest parts were the smaller centre circles but they aren't totally impossible.  I can definitely see myself giving this style another go at some point in the future.  I do quite like the effect and would love to see it off-centre as well.

The back is just my usual style zip enclosure, using some of the leftover pinks from the top.  It really is nothing special (ok, I forgot to get a pic and it's dark now) - just imagine light pink on top and dark pink on the bottom, with a lovely label slapped on there somewhere.  ;)

Obviously, the binding is just the dark pink.  I must say, I do like binding on cushions.  It really finished them off.

And, just for one more little picture, here she is chilling out with her partner in crime, the Cutie Scootie Patootie cushion.

What a pair!  ;)

So, there is my stripe-inspired project for last month's Le Challenge.  Pop over here to see where others went.  There are some great ideas!  Also, this month's theme (and the last for the year) has now been announced - PRECIOUS - so I must, must, must try a little harder to get something done on time.  A few ideas are already brewing.  What about you?  Planning to play along?


E.

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

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.