Cordelia

It's impossible to make beautiful quilts out of all the gorgeous fabrics that are available. It's near impossible choosing from them all.

But, for those of you like me who see something and want everything, but have no means, either time or money, to sew a quilt with them, but MUST HAVE them nonetheless, I have a solution.

When I see something I must have, but can't afford to make a quilt with, I sew pillow cases with them. It's a small inexpensive project and allows you to have a variety of beautiful fabrics in your home.

the FACT that they're impossible to coordinate with other bedcoverings is neither here nor there.

:lol: :lol: :lol:

I have sewn pillow cases out of fabrics that I've coveted, but could not justify buying.

I also, of course, use up scraps and leftovers from other projects the this way.

If you like the style of these pillowcases, you can download the pattern w/directions at the link.

http://www.longarmohio.com/pattern1pillowcase.html

The directions are hard to understand, and I had to actually be shown how to do it, but if anyone actually did download the directions to make one, if you have trouble, I'll be able to help you.

These were my first attempts before I found the pattern at the link. They're not as nice because my stitching shows. But, I used up scrap fabric and they're as good as any pillow case you'll get at K-Mart.

Cordelia

Some more.

Cordelia

Here's some kiddy pillows:

Moonpi

Pretty!

Lots of small projects come to mind- place mats and table toppers, runners, wall hangings of all sizes. My "oops" blocks end up as pot holders.

Cordelia

For the fabric I just had to have for no purpose other than just wanting it ...

Cordelia

Funny you should mention pot holders/hot pads. I've got more hot pads than any kitchen outlet center.

:wink:

And my Wal-Mart purchase from two years ago ... (Yeah, this fabric is still available at some of the Wal-Marts that are still selling fabric)

I originally intended these for special bird-lover place mats or throw pillows for white wicker sunroom furniture.

But ... scrap that, now they're pillow cases.

ksusan

Yes, Yes, and Yes again!!! I am whole-heartedly agreeing that the pillow cases are a great idea. I didn't try the link, but have sewn similar cases for the household and granddaughters.

Your purse is outstanding. Is that the Penny Sturgus pattern called bow tucks? I was just reviewing my patterns this afternoon as I finished two totes using Penny's techiques. Her patterns are wonderfully written and worth every cent,

Our guild has been having a workshop to make another type of tote by Penny Sturgus. I brought the bow tucks pattern and fabric in April '08 and will cut out the pieces this evening.

Thanks for sharing.

Piecefully yours,
Kay Susan

Izy

Cordelia - Why don't you make a runner for the bottom of the bed that matches your pillows, it doesn't have to be too wide just 12" - 14" then if you have plain bedding it will coordinate beautifully. I dress my bed with these, infact I intend to make two tomorrow for my guest bedroom, as it is so hot now you only need a top sheet and that looks sooooo boring!!

Cordelia

Yup. That's the bow tucks bag. I like them better than Vera Bradley any day!

ksusan

I've found a soulmate. Thanks for the scoop. I guess that I am in the purse phase, having experimented with tote bags. I have three quilted bags and matching accessories designed by Donna Sharp at House of Quilts. Each is unique, but I can make something as nice or nicer...and not have made in China labor. I will stimulate the local economy and have Yooper (Upper Peninsula of Michigan) labor.

Piecefully yours,
Kay Susan