Travel Diary #1 - Mekong Quilts

As I've previously bragged about mentioned Mr C and I have recently returned from our month-long honeymoon traveling through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia.  It was truly amazing and we loved every crazy second.

Of course, inbetween the touring, adventuring, relaxing and, yes, eating, I did manage to squeeze in a few crafty activities, including some oohing and ahhing at some gorgeous quilts.

These beauties, and many others, were for sale in Mekong Quilts, Hanoi.  This not-for-profit organisation offers employment to village women throughout Vietnam and Cambodia - providing training, a fair wage and a safe environment to work.

It is a fantastic initiative, with 15 groups employed through out the region to stock the seven Mekong Quilts shops.  The profits from sales are also re-invested back into the communities, with things like school scholarships for children and agricultural training.  Win-win-win!

I, of course, had to buy something and with a new little boy on his way I couldn't resist this gorgeous tiger cushion / pillow / beanbag cover.

The hand stitching is just fabulous.

Since I've been home I've also whipped up a simple and not-so-attractive insert to fill the cover.  This will serve two purposes - (1) it provide a level of safety so all those little beans stay enclosed and (2) it makes washing a breeze.

The cushion is now all soft and squishy and ready to meet Mr P.  I hope he likes it!

For more information on Mekong Quilts, check out their informative website.  You'll find lots of interesting tidbits and even videos.  A catalogue is also available for download so be sure to check out the amazing works and even consider supporting this worthwhile cause.  You'll be glad you did!

E.