Sewing From My Stash

Over the last week, I have been scheduling some sewing time into each day...and that means revisiting my fabric stash. I've realized (probably no shock to you) that I am a bit of a fabric "junkie"...and it feels good to start utilizing fabrics that I have been collecting  hoarding for the last few years. I'm not sure why it is so hard to cut into some of my favorite fabrics...after all, I did buy the yardage for projects...I guess some of them are just too pretty for the rotary cutter. Well, all that must change...I am on a mission, determined to clean up my sewing studio...so, I will slowly but surely start using my fabric collection for it's intended use...

Today, we revisit Madeira by Blackbird Designs for Moda...this is such a wonderful collection - not only the sought after "sampler print" fabrics...but the floral, paisley, and checkered prints too! I have accumulated quite a bit of this particular collection, so I decided to start using it. I put together two more sets of patchwork snack mats (mug rugs) and seven little sewing pouches....and there is still more in the drawer. The snack mats feature patchwork tops from an assortment of Madeira prints and the backs feature a single Madeira print - I like to make them reversible, so I can use either side....and the rick rack trim just adds the perfect little touch. The sewing pouches are fully lined, have two interior pockets, a sewn in Velcro closure, and no raw seams...and I decided to appliqué a hand-dyed wool fabric heart on each as an embellishment. At approximately 4" W x 5.5" H, one is the perfect size for carrying your needlework tools in your project bag...or to hold a small sewing kit...or to easily hold a smart phone and your cash/credit cards...even a passport or iPod fits easily inside. These smalls pouches/cases make me happy! So, now that I have started to cut in to my Madeira fabrics, of course I have some scraps...so that means a few pincushions from this line will be my next project...stay tuned...and yes, many (if not all) of the pieces shown here will be listed in my shop in the near future...