Yearly wrap up.

Can you believe it. 2012. I  couldn't even think that far ahead when I was a little girl now I'm actually living it. I have to start by saying I am completely in denial that the year is over. I just can't understand where the time went. Reading all the blogs that have been posting their farewells to 2011 has really made it hit home. I guess I wish I'd done more this year. More sewing, more blogging and more networking. But looking back at all my pics I'm pretty happy with the things I have done. So here is my "The year that was" post. I'm all for a yearly wrap up, the collage is much more impressive anyway!

What have I learnt this year?

 I've learnt that the terrible 2's really are terrible...
Don't get me wrong, this year has been the most amazing with my Little Miss. She has learnt to talk this year. Oh boy does she talk. Although I will never assume another mother is exaggerating when they share their words of wisdom again. But I wouldn't have it any other way.

that I really can't make a farmers wife quilt...
At least I get points for trying. I bought the book feeling very gung ho about it then I made a couple of blocks that were too big and I didn't want to waste another hour on a block that would need redoing. I admire the ladies that have stuck with it and there are some amazing blocks out there. Can't wait to see the finished quilts in 2012

that I love braiding my Little Miss' hair, now that she finally has some...
Yes other than not talking Little Miss was a baldy. She only had a fringe until the beginning of this year. Now I'm going crazy with clips, braids and anything else she'll sit long enough for me to do.

that hand quilting isn't as hard and tedious as I thought...
I thought that hand quilting was harder than it actually is. Well not harder but more time consuming. I avoided using a needle and thread for a very long time. Kinda weird since I'm a quilter but that's the truth. If I could machine sew it, I would. 

that if I follow a link from a blog post I'll be on the computer for at least another 2hrs...
Oh boy how many hours are lost reading other blogs. But I'm hooked now and I don't think there is changing it. There are some very creative ladies out there. They all inspire me to learn new things. 

and that I should stop over thinking things, I am my own worst enemy.
This one isn't something I can change in 2012. It might take me a bit longer. It's taken me years to get where I am today. I'm constantly second guessing my decisions and that stops me from doing things I really want to do. I'm afraid of failing and so sometimes I don't try. (I'd imagine this is what a therapy session would feel like) The 2011 me would have deleted that and started the sentence again without the personal mushy stuff but I think 2012 me is keeping it! ;)

I do have a few things up my sleeve for 2012. I've finished my boring business for the year and I don't plan on starting it up again which gives me more time and a lot more drive to see DreamPatch succeed.
Thanks for sticking around. I hope you'll keep me company for the coming year as well, because I've really enjoyed your visits and I love visiting you too.

Buttons....

I'm dipping my toe in the button pool and you know what... it's rather nice in here. So I'll be staying for a while and hopefully you'll be getting wet too. :)

I've seen a few pins and hair ties but I'm a multitasking kinda gal and I like to be able to use the same thing, whether it be furniture, fabric or food, in more than one way. So here is my solution...

use the same button in more than one way. (Funny that)

There are a few sets already listed in my Etsy store so be sure to drop in and see if you like anything.

Hope you enjoy your holidays. Today is the last day for hubby and we get a long overdue 3weeks off. Lots of trips to the beach hopefully!! 

Flying Geese...

I've been working on a few little bits and pieces lately. one of them being this panel which I'll be turning into a cushion. I just love the flying geese block and with Summer house fabric... swoon!

I was going for a scrappy look, not so clean cut like geese on white. Although I was a little worried that the blocks might appear a bit busy but in cushion size I think it ends up being just the right amount of busy. 

The colours are definitely summer and with the lack of sun around here I think this will really hit the spot. This panel used up only 12 charm squares with no waste. I used up every last bit of the squares even using the strips that were left over from the geese in a thin border.

Also quickly put together this ipad pouch with some left over good fortune squares. 

It's made up of bow tie blocks that  are too cute ( I think I should make a few more of those.) Just needs a little velcro tab and it's done.

New on the "to-do" list.

I think I've decided to do a new thing... instead if a 'work in progress' day I'm just going to do a "new on the to-do list' day. What ya think? Would you link up to that?Well that's probably only until Lee starts up WIP Wednesday again. You know I can't miss out on that... if i remember... and if I have something to show. :S

It's just I am constantly starting little projects and quilts in between finishing up other ones so wouldn't it be nice to show off what you've started. I guess that's the procrastinator in me trying to justify starting a new project before finishing an old one. I know I'm not the only one though.

This gorgeous fabric is Reunion by Sweetwater. I am loving the print!! I have never used lettered fabric but I  think I'll have to more often. 

And the blocks above come courtesy of this useful book. A must have in your quilting library if I do say so myself. It's got all the rotary instructions for making this block in 5-6-7 or 8 inches. as well as 500 other blocks. (obviously) Super handy for a lazy one like me that doesn't want to do the calculations. Not sure what I'm making yet... any suggestions? 

Also got my new business cards in the mail today. Love that turquoise!!! :)

Sewing package.

A friend of mine has just bit the bullet and bought herself a brand new sewing machine. So what better excuse to break open a Good Fortune charm pack and make her a beginners sewing kit. I have to admit while I was making all these bits I was so tempted to make another set for myself. I got as far as the apple pin cushion and now I'm happy. :) 

I got the pattern for the pincushion here. It's really simple and the tute is awesome with a printable template too. I had to make a couple more just for fun. There is also a pear version if that's more your thing.

For all those bits and bobs that come with sewing I made this little pouch. I just made it up as I went so I don't have any measurements to share. I machine embroidered her name along the side for that personal touch which I love to add.

Also had to add a little sewing kit. I made one for myself a while back and found it so practical. It's not to replace a sewing box or anything but whenever I need a needle and thread this baby always has my back!! ;)

I also put together a scissor pouch. Always handy to have and with kiddies that can reach pretty much anything this baby gives you a couple more minutes to catch them in the act before they get that button open.

Picked up this vintage basket, ...

finished up with a bow and this little parcel is in it's new home, being used to make all kinds of pretty things.

Be sure to stick around I'll be posting a tutorial for the mini sewing kit in the new year!!

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