Progress on a quilt for a dear friend

I've finally picked this back up after it hibernating under my bed while company was visiting.  It's always a struggle for me pick things back up again.

I'm on a roll and over a third done with the quilting phase.  I ripped out over a fourth of what I had completed previously so I could do some "design" work around the blocks.

I'm super excited about getting this to my friend as she'll take some grand photos.

I hate ruffles - a nightgown

I bought fabric for a nightgown for my dearest step-ish daughter.  She picked the colors herself. While I was cutting this out there were pieces strewn everywhere.  It reminded me of  my childhood.  After a half-day of cutting this out, I realized why my mother had me cut out the MANY clothes she made my sister and I.  My back hurt for days after.

During the construction of this I took so many trips to the local fabric store - I'm shocked. I realizing how much my mother has and how much I'm lacking. I totally appreciate how much even the small things cost now.

The ruffles at first were cute and fun.  As it progressed I wanted to scream with the amount of ruffles this nightgown has.  I'm disappointed this is only worn to sleep.

When it was all done she tried it on. . and the bodice was way too big.  Ugh!  When I had the pattern and measured her (twice) it looked like it would be perfect.  I even had her try the bodice on without the skirt it still seemed like it was just right.  Alas when it was done, I had to put darts in the back. The reality is that she has a gown that she'll be able to wear for years to come.

The finished gown

Finished Baby Quilt

It's been a productive weekend. I've finished the baby quilt. It's officially for a girl. I'm not convinced it will be girl-ish enough.

While making the quilt sandwich the new cat, George O'Malley, was eager to assist. It makes it feel so much more homemade.

 Getting him away has been a challenge. .

He's settling into the house so much I can't even take a photo of the finished project.  

Quilt Along

  There are things to do. Places to visit. But there is a mind to calm.  I believe that I'm going to join this quilt-along.  I'll evaluate my stash tonight and figure out what colors I'm gonna choose.  Yeah!

Cat Post

We are trying out a new cat.  My wonderful step-father put the wood post together after I asked (a lot).
Twine I had purchased years ago with a going out of business sale.

I went to the local tile and carpet store and picked up $2.00 worth of discontinued carpet samples.


So this is what I started with - 

 

 I worked for a few hours. . and voila

Baby Blanket

Working on a baby blanket for my fella's teenage niece who will be having a baby within the next few months. Oh she's a bugger and not telling anyone if it's a boy or a girl. Lovely late night planning.