I’ve started making up little project bags for quilt blocks which need embroidery, it’s working really well. I trace the design or iron on the applique and pop it in a zip-lock bag with all the threads, a needle and some scissors. If I know I’m going somewhere where I might have the chance to sew, I pop one in my bag. I took several to Tea & Tents and usually have one in my bag when visiting a friend for the day…

I completed two applique blocks for My Splendid Sampler, I just had to blanket stitch round the pieces (mind you there were quite a lot on the squirrel!) and finish off with a little extra embroidery. The squirrel was meant to have a yo-yo flower but mine came out huge and rather than make another one I decided to make a bunch of button flowers. I wasn’t sure about this block at first, a bit too sugar-sweet, but I like it now, I fussy-cut the leaves so they all have a bit of blossom on too! This one was designed by Frances Newcombe, her motto is ‘Don’t worry about making the perfect block, just enjoy the process.’ I agree with that one!

As soon as I saw the strawberry pincushion block I knew which fabric I was going to choose, the pink bunnies were ideal for fussy-cutting. I used tiny vintage buttons from my button box for the pin-heads.

The block was designed by Pat Sloan who is one of the organisers of the whole quilt-along. She says ‘ The pincushion is an integral part of the life of a quiltmaker. You need to put those pins SOMEWHERE.. right? And why not have an adorable pincushion. I don’t even know how many I’ve made and owned over the years.’

In the middle of July one of the blocks was designed by Gail Pan, I was looking forward to this one as I do like her designs, she didn’t disappoint! It’s called ‘Stitch in the Garden’ Isn’t it gorgeous! I decided to use a DMC variegated thread in pinks and greens and I love how it’s turned out.

I’ve even managed to finish another block for my Anderson Farm quilt. I’m enjoying these blocks now I’ve decided to use Bondaweb and blanket-stitch, rather than needle-turn applique. I really admire those who can do needle-turn on complex tiny shapes, but I’ll need a lot more practice and time before I’ll be happy with the results and this isn’t a quilt to practice on!

The three chickens remind me of our girls, Dottie is our chief chuck at the moment and she’s a Blue Lace, just like the one in the middle. I love the worm buttons, these come with the instructions, they’re designed by Lynette Anderson.

Well it’s the last day of the month, so it’s time for my stash report, last month my stash increased somewhat after a trip to Goldhawk Road, I’ve been very restrained this month and not bought any, I have been tempted…but I resisted, not like me at all really!

I only made one dress this month before I started making things to sell at Tea & Tents, but I did use a length of stone poplin as lining for the bags. I’ve started an outfit from one of my saris too, so hopefully next months will be even better!

Total Stash end of June      115m

Fabric used   3.5m

Fabric purchased      0m 🙂

Stash at end of July   111.5m

I’m linking up with Kathy’s Quilts for Slow Stitching Sunday and Super Mom No Cape for Vintage Embroidery Monday, why not have a look what everyone else is stitching.