Recently, I have been trying hard to use up some of my fabrics (and other craft items) in an effort to reduce "my bits" that are spread all over the house these days. Then I received some fabric samples that the owner no longer knew what to do with. I simply cannot say NO to any fabric! The only way I could justify this was to start making with them as soon as possible.
Some of the pieces had been sewn into long strips, but I had a different idea, so I unpicked the seams. Don't you HATE using the seam ripper?! It was done very quickly though.
After separating them, I cut the pieces into equal squares, and then halved them again into brick shapes. Sorting them into sets of four, I sewed them into pouch panels, adding some black from one of my boxes:
With just black and white I found them a little uninspiring, so I decided to add something colourful. First of all I started some embroidery. Small buttons, a red perle and an evening in front of the fire later these flowers had been added:
It looks lovely, but not as colourful as I thought it would be. So out came pencil and paper, iron-on adhesive, and some cheerful batiks. A session on the sewing machine turned out this little creature and its brothers/sisters:
I just love the quirky effect of the colourful geckos on the stark black and white background. I'll be turning these in some practical pouches now.
Linking up with Archie the Wonder Dog at "Mini Archie's January Furtle Around The Blogosphere". If you want to know what that is all about, click on the link or on the button (image) below:
That is it for today, I have pouches to finish!
Sandra
What a great way to use some previously unloved fabric! I love the little gecko!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. Fabric looks like upholstery samples. Love the extras.
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking up and for adding the button - the very first linker *waves pompoms*
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea! Embroidery is always a good addition, but that little gecko is brill! An unexpected touch. :D
ReplyDeleteHi Sandra, good to meet you!
ReplyDeleteLove how you've transformed those fabrics and I love a gecko!
Oh I adore the red embroider on the checkered fabric. How inspired! Have fun making up the pouches. Like you, I want to use up lots of what's already here this year. I need to be storing less and have my house tidier too!!
ReplyDeleteI love the gekho, so clever
ReplyDeleteLove the idea of customising pouch panels like this. What a productive snow day.
ReplyDeleteThat was a great way to use the fabric and the embroidery and gekho are perfect additions :)
ReplyDeleteI love your Gecko! adn the embroidery is gorgeous too
ReplyDeleteI love the black and white but your embroidery had me squealing with delight The whole effect is just beautiful.
ReplyDeleteLove how you did some improv with those random scraps! And the little batik gecko - oh my goodness. Looking forward to seeing what you “furtle” next month. 8)
ReplyDeleteLove the gekho. That’s a sweet touch.
ReplyDelete