Like all plans, something could change, but I'm hoping to complete 3 new sewing items (okay 4 if you count the curtains for our livingroom) by the end of January. These three are only in their infancy stages. One is dependent upon another person's fabric choices and design input so that may or may not get done as planned. One is somewhat figured out. One is sort of kinda most likely resolved... Decisive, aren't I? I think that's my biggest problem when it comes to sewing of any kind: trying to decide on fabrics and colors. Not a bad dilemma to have for sure (and miniscule in the scheme of life), but frustrating nonetheless. The other problem that hinders me from jumping in? Fear of 'ruining' a nice piece of fabric. Does any of this sound familiar to you?
Anyway...onto the sewing plans for January:
1. dependent upon another's input. My daughter wanted a messenger bag for Christmas and after scouting Etsy for 10,000 hours, she still couldn't come up with anything that was 'just right'. So I suggested that I sew one for her. (obviously this didn't happen before Christmas) We've chosen a pattern (we'll tweak a bit according to size) and she's partially chosen some fabrics (not shown). Right now, she's working on a design for the front flap. Embroider the design or applique it? That is her dilemma. We'll see if the messenger bag gets done by January 31st...
2. somewhat figured out. I spotted an invitation to make a pair of "Shlippers" by the end of the month on String Theory. They are hosting a 'Shoe and Tell'. Make a pair of slippers/shoes and share what you make. I purchased the Olivia pattern from here and am using a piece of fun fabric I purchased over the summer.
3. sort of kinda most likely resolved ...but then again, I will probably change my mind. I've been wanting to make a full-size quilt (or at least the patchwork part of the quilt) for sometime, and this will help to get my feet wet. Randi from I have to say is starting her first Sew-Along for the new year. She's chosen 3 mini quilts using a pattern called Courthouse Steps. As you can see from the photo, I'm still trying to decide on my fabrics. I'd like to use what I already have, but it may mean a trip to the local fabric store for some solid cottons. I also don't have a walking foot for my sewing machine, but I think I can get around that since these quilts are mini.
So that's it! By the end of the month, you (and I) will know if these come to fruition.
By the way, there's still time to join in #2 and #3 if you'd like to!
I was going to do Randi's sew-along too. I'm at the picking-out-the fabric stage -- but I really like her color choices. I also jumped onto the Craftsy block-of-the-month project and I've decided to use vintage sheets (just in case things don't go as planned I won't have that guilt of ruining fabric-- you are not alone).
Posted by: Jodi | January 05, 2012 at 07:51 AM
Now that is ambition! I hope you get all of your sewing done, and I love the viewmaster wheel fabric for the shoes!
Posted by: Heather | January 05, 2012 at 08:27 AM
Good luck Ellen. All your projects sound exciting. I've started my fourth granddaughters quilt this week along with some American Girl doll clothes. Her birthday is mid-January so need to finish soon. Hugs...
Posted by: MaryBeth | January 05, 2012 at 10:18 AM
I forgot to tell you, I made 6-7 of these bags for our church bazaar out of remnants of upholstery fabric. They were really unique and sold like hotcakes. Looks like the same pattern. Have fun with this project also. Hugs...
Posted by: MaryBeth | January 05, 2012 at 10:30 AM
Oh, wow! I'm excited about your projects. You fabric for the shlippers is so cute! I vote for applique on the messenger bag...how I know the pain of indecision!
I'm hoping to launch into quilting this year...I'm not holding myself to this month. ;)
Posted by: Rachel | January 05, 2012 at 03:12 PM
I can not wait to see the shoes you make, the pattern is just darling!
I wish I could join in, but there is a real love/hate relationship I have with my machine and I uually end up in tears; it's just not worth it.
Posted by: Tracey | January 05, 2012 at 03:50 PM
I just finished a baby quilt I started in September - it took longer to choose the binding fabric than to sew the quilt. Love all your planned makes xx
Posted by: The Barefoot Crofter | January 05, 2012 at 04:59 PM
You constantly amaze me with all that you do.
Whew! Your knitting et all is fabulous.
I do wish you a wonderful year.
I am looking forward to seeing the shoes and everything else you create.
Best to you, e.
Posted by: ellen | January 05, 2012 at 07:32 PM
Looks like fun! I've noticed a couple of blogs hosting stash bashes...where you use up what's in your stash. Maybe you could share your finished projects there as well?
Posted by: Kristen | January 05, 2012 at 08:38 PM
all these projects look exciting!
i love the look of the messenger bag!
Posted by: Kylie | January 05, 2012 at 08:51 PM