I’ve been doing a little finishing. Of course, every time I finish something I think of something else I could start and finish before Christmas, so the list is not getting any shorter. I finally finished up the binding on my casserole mats. The larger one is perfect to set a 9 x 13 casserole on, and the smaller one works for my smaller serving bowls. I put a layer of batting and a layer of Insul Brite in each one so they will work for hot dishes just out of the oven. The bindings on both are from Vintage Modern…seems that line works wonderfully with Cherry Christmas!
I’m finished with the Christmas tree skirt! I had a little delay sewing the binding today–my Christmas tree decided to go crashing to the ground while I was sitting just a few feet away. Everything was okay, though; a new stand was the perfect fix, and hopefully the skirt will grace the tree by this evening. (Luckily we hadn’t added the ornaments yet, so the lights were the only things to rearrange)!
(Tree skirt photo from Instagram)…The lighting was kind of bad, but I sure do love having the aqua!
I also sewed up this Mama Said Sew dishtowel. The red fabrics and the pattern are by Sweetwater. This is such a nifty technique for dressing up a towel; I’ll definitely be making a few more for gifts.
Another recent project was this cell-phone pouch. It’s just the perfect size for your phone, a lip gloss, and a little cash. The fabrics are Secret Garden by Sandi Henderson, and the pattern can be found here. This was my first time making this pattern, and I was really pleased with the instructions and photos. I would definitely make this again!
This is just a preview. I’m making a quilt right now out of these lovely fabrics, Indigo Crossing, by Minick & Simpson. Monique Dillard of Open Gate Quilts has designed a beautiful block of the month quilt that will begin in January. I’m happy to be quilting along. This is one you’ll want to join…the patterns will be available as beautiful pdf downloads and will be free. There will be finishing instructions for both a 6 block or 12 block version, and Monique has gathered a group of quilters who will share their versions of her designs each month. We’re all using different fabric collections, so the inspiration will be a lot of fun! You can read more about this quilt-along here.
I’m also over at Moda’s The Cutting Table blog today with some last-minute gift ideas–a few of the ideas are things I’ve shared here, but there are also a few others on the list over there!
I’m grateful for the cool and rainy weather the past day or so…it’s been perfect for Christmas lights, Christmas music, and quilting. Unfortunately, I can’t end this post without mentioning the incredible sadness I am feeling along with the rest of our nation at the tragic loss of lives in Connecticut on Friday. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain and horror experienced by those who experienced this terrible nightmare. My heart especially goes out to the children–it’s just incomprehensible to me that anyone could hurt an innocent child. A teacher at my high school was shot and killed by a student when I was a sophomore; I was just across the hall from where it happened, and the incident has powerfully affected me my whole life. Incidents like this always seem to bring back memories and images of that day. Words just can’t express how I’m feeling today, and my heart and prayers go out to all of those affected.
Thanks so much for stopping by.
Cindy says
Sherri,
I love all your makes! That towel is so cute. I also keep finding things to make at this last minute:) At some point I've got to stop. Oh, probably not:)
Patti says
I love all your finishes. You are amazing.
Jennie says
Oh my, your casserole mats are brilliant! Definitely going to have to make a few of these as gifts. No worries, I've got time!
Kate says
I do love your tree skirt!
CathyK says
Some terrific finishes!
Mary on Lake Pulaski says
You do keep having great gift ideas Sherri! I'm continuing to sew gifts too.
Anita says
Love your dishtowel! That was such an incredible memory, sad to think that some of those sweet kids will have some for the rest of their lives too. My heart aches for everyone 🙁
Cathy says
I think Newton has effected the entire world, I know my family in Australia is saddened and in shock …I'm a teacher and the thought I living this nightmare are impossible to comprehend!
Isn't indigo crossing divine, I'm trying to source some at the moment, gorgeous!!
Jean(ie) says
I just bought some of that Sweetwater fabric just yesterday. Love it!
I'm digging that Indigo Crossing fabric. Might have to add that to my wish list!
Sandie @ crazy'boutquilts says
Great projects! I am still waiting for Monique's fabric requirements to see if I have enough of what I want to use. LOL Have a happy day!
Live a Colorful Life says
I have a 6-year-old granddaughter in first grade. I can't imagine the pain of losing her.
Cindy says
Cute, cute and more cute projects. Definitely will be making the cell phone case/caddy.
Michelle Jensen says
Cute cute stuff. I really enjoy the pin cushion. I have to say that I am still using a tomato so I definitely need to do some updating in that area… oh yeah it is for Christmas presents and not for myself, lol. I love the dish towels too. I need to get sewing on some fun projects this week. I think dish towels will make the list because they would go great with my MIL's present. So cute.
Michelle Jensen says
Cute cute stuff. I really enjoy the pin cushion. I have to say that I am still using a tomato so I definitely need to do some updating in that area… oh yeah it is for Christmas presents and not for myself, lol. I love the dish towels too. I need to get sewing on some fun projects this week. I think dish towels will make the list because they would go great with my MIL's present. So cute.
Mama Pea says
You've been busy! Love them all. I especially like the cell phone pouch!