Quilting?

Okay, I've figured out how to use my fabric stashes. Make quilts. I just made the top of one (using these fabrics)  that's going to go in the family room. By the way, I discovered Creative Quilt Kits - right.down.the.road. What an unexpected treat!

I know that my iPhone photos aren't the best, but I really wanted to capture this before I but the backing on and quilt it. I didn't use a pattern (you can tell), but I tried to be consistent with my strip sizes.

In other news, my Weekender Bag made it through the airport and Mexico and back! It was really great. The only thing I'd do differently is add a should strap for carrying it through the airport. Otherwise, it was really roomy and help three bathing suits, an extra outfit, my laptop & cord, two textbooks, my makeup bag AND my Kindle. Very handy indeed.

Bringing crafty back

Did you miss me? I've been spending so much time at work, school, and Facebook that I sort of dropped off the map. I didn't realize it's been almost a year since I updated my blog. Oopsies.

I picked out this fabric and this fabric (shown together above) to make this adorable Amy Butler bag:

 

I'm more than a little nervous about making this thing. First, it's so super cute that I don't want to mess it up. Next, lots and lots of other people out here have had less than pleasant experiences making it. They all promise, however, that it is worth it in the end. We'll see...I'll try to keep you posted with my progress. I want to have it done by the time we go to Puerto Vallarta in February. It would make a lovely carry on, don't you think?

I used the Amy Butler Liverpool pattern to make a tunic, but it ended up as the outer shell for what will be the coolest spring coat. Ever. Really.

I've promised myself that I will become more patient and crafty and active. I think I've started out the new year rather well!

Economic Stimulus Package may mean more FABRIC!

Oooh. Here's a link to the amount of cash you could be lucky enough to receive from Big Brother. 

While I know I should use it to pay some creditors or save it for the fellas to go to college, I really want to buy a few things. I'd like a sewing machine that does embroidery, LOTS of fabric to play with, and a babysitter so I can crop and stitch. 

Here's a lousy picture (taken from my cell) of a dress I made. I used a pattern but didn't exactly know how to follow it. It fits, but it isn't as cute and trendy as I was hoping it would be. It's definitely something I will wear to work or church. 

And of course you want to know how the fellas are doing. They're great! Nathan is learning to count (eight, nine, ten) and say his ABCs (i, b, i, b, i, b...). Nickolas can write his name and is practicing other names, too (for Nathan, he impressed us by sounding it out and spelling "NTAOAN"). 

All thumbs, no thumbs

Since I have not done any scrapbooking in over SIX months, I've started a new hobby: sewing. I'm teaching myself to sew. I'm not great, but I have learned a ton in the past week or so. Apparently, however, I have not learned to avoid slicing my thumbs with my rotary cutter. I actually could probably use a couple of stitches on my left thumb, but I'm just sticking with bandages for now.

I've made some super cool things, including window treatments, a little drawstring bag, and table runner, some coasters, and half of a purse. Don't ask.

I don't have any pictures of my new stuff, but I can assure you that they only look super cool because of the fabric I used.