Summer Bag Sewing using Manchester Metallics

As mentioned in a previous post, I am participating in a summer sewing challenge sponsored by Sew Mama Sew using Manchester Metallics by Robert Kaufman fabrics. Here's a sneak peak at what I am working on.

I love collaborating with Sew Mama Sew.  The challenge is summer bag sewing and these are the fabrics that I chose:

1/2 yard of natural Essex E014-1242 NATURAL 

1/2 yard of onyx SRKM-15373-181 ONYX

 1/2 yard of indigo CCCX-14114-62 INDIGO

 

You can't tell by the picture but the Onyx is very sparkly and shiny.  It's more silvery grey than black.   I decided to use it for the applique for this project.

I am using shiny silver thread because it was in my stash.   I haven't used this thread since I made myself a silvery Halloween costume.

 Here's the finished applique.  If you've seen my work, you'll know that I love to applique on everything.

 Look, it's a bike!

But we are not done yet... time for some quilting.

 I didn't go over the applique, just stitched straight lines around it.

Were these pictures enough of a hint as to what I am making?  Stayed tuned for my next post for the big reveal...

DIY Gifts for Teachers

It's the last day of school and once again, I am behind on posting about the teacher gifts. I always have so many ideas but find myself sewing or crafting at the last minute.  In spite of my procrastination, things tend to eventually get done. 

I am so thankful for the teachers we have had this year.  Both of my kids flourished and learned more than I could have ever imagined.

In no particular order, here's what I did:

Our grade 2 teacher was given a gift card, crayon roll, and a handmade soap (I'll post more about the soaps another day.  So much fun to make and so easy!)

Our kindie teacher was given a handmade linen bag inspirated by a pattern from purl soho, a crayon roll, a lotto card, and a soap.

Lastly our other kindie teacher got a lotto card and soap.   She's also getting a wedding gift.

I also had the kids fill in this template from CBC kids just to make the gift giving extra special.

Hurray for the last day of school!  I am so excited for the summer!
 

Fun things in the mail and another Sew Mama Sew collaboration on the way...

I rarely get anything in the mail but in the past couple of days, I've received a couple of really cute things in my mailbox. 

This one came from my little guy in kindie.  So sweet.   I really appreciate the small things and his kindie teacher is fantastic

My crochet needles came in and they are great!   I haven't had a chance to use them but they feel fantastic!

Saving the absolute best for last... another collaboration with Sew Mama Sew is in the works. More to come...

I love getting mail!!!!