Holiday Sewing Projects - Patchwork Table Runner & Towels

I did it - I finally finished my last handmade gift of the season! I am actually shocked I reached my goal...a month ago I had no idea how I was going to get it all done, but a little time management, a specific prioritized list, and a few late nights helped me accomplish my lofty goals.

Last night, after a couple shots of DayQuil cold medicine (yes, my head cold is in full force - just in time for Christmas), I felt well enough to quilt and bind this table runner and add the finishing touches to some matching kitchen towels. The table runner is a Pieced Tree Pattern called "Scrappy -Do" (Tiny One #21) and was much easier than it looks! Even feeling under the weather, I loved every minute of this project - maybe it is the floral fabrics - they just seem bright and cheery to me. If you are a beginner quilter or want a good starting project, these little Pieced Tree Patterns "tiny" laminated card projects are perfect - they are inexpensive and have easy diagrams and instructions. This table runner is a nice size at 12"w x 32.5" long and will be a good addition to the recipient's kitchen. When I cut the fabric for this project, I had a small pile of 2.5" x 2.5" squares left over, so I decided to use them to embellish a couple matching kitchen towels...then I added some cheerful medium-sized yellow rick rack. I was so thrilled with how these turned out that I want to do a set for my kitchen! I will be pairing the table runner and kitchen towels with a special cookbook...and all I have left to do is foof (wrap) it!

As the snow continues to fall here in Iowa, I am going to enjoy my Christmas Eve day. I already have a big pot of homemade chili simmering in the crock pot and plan to do a little baking this afternoon. Once the house is tidy, the last couple gifts are foofed, and my fun in the kitchen is done, I plan to relax this evening with my husband (who will be home on Christmas Eve for a change!)...a nice fire in the fireplace, maybe a good movie...and of course I get to unwrap my mystery gift...

Wishing you a white Christmas filled with laughter and love - Happy Holidays!