Sep 15, 2014

Final Day of the See You In September Blog Hop

Yep, it is the last day of the "See You In September/Save RBD Gingham" Hop.  Yes, we had time off this summer to get 3 things done but my time is no longer my own.  I have not been goofing off in any way,  shape or form but found that I have needed every single day of it in order to get finished up. It helped to be  bringing up the rear!

 While I AM finished (but have plans for more gingham goodness), I am sorry to say that I have been more of a spectator than commenter so far this round.  I'm reading on the tablet at lunch time when it is not as easy to comment.  I keep thinking I will get to it later and then it doesn't happen.  You know how it goes.  Give me a few days and I'll make amends for that as there have been some really cool things posted and selected for wow and creativity.

As always a big "Thank You" to Mdm. Samm of Sew We Quilt for allowing me to participate and dreaming up these ideas.  Apparently her plan for us to "Save the Gingham" has been successful in part as the medium sized check is staying.  That's what I heard anyway, LOL.  Also Shari of Living with Purpose has outdone herself as head cheerleader/blogger herder.  Give both of them a big hand!

I share the day with the following so pop on over and show them some bloggy love, if you would.

Tuesday, September 16
Life, quilts and a cat too   <<<YOU ARE HERE>>>

So what have I been up to??   

#1 Project
 It has become my tradition to make a Christmas tree skirt for the couples as my wedding gift to them, if they want one.  So far no one has turned me down yet!  When I was given the chance to go out to Colorado in mid August for my niece's wedding, I had been working on theirs.  It became obvious that it was going to have to be one of my items for the hop so I refrained from sharing any pictures in progress. Greg and Amber are not in a permanent living space at this point so I knew I could wait to send their gift.  It wouldn't have fit in my luggage anyway.  

 I asked about traditional colors when we talked about it.  When Amber said "blue" to go with her blue ornament collection, I had just the ticket.  Hooray!  I already had the fabrics and pattern for the Frosted Tree Skirt kit offered by Connecting Threads a few years ago.  (Julia and Blake wanted traditional colors instead of the blues in the kit.  I shared it for the HO HO HO Christmas in  July blog hop post last year).  

I had the blocks pieced before I left on my week long trip.  I was able to share a picture of it on the design wall with the bride.   It took two days to complete the top to flimsy and border it.  It took  another day to prep the back, make the bias binding and pin it.  Three days went into machine quilting it.  The picture may not show the cross hatching in the Puss in the Corner squares.  It took two more days to hand finish the binding.   There went another week to 10 days of the summer!

Excuse the indoor picture but it was sprinkling rain this morning.



#2 Project  Car Seat Hammock for my dog from Ex-Scapes


I bought the pattern and proceeded not to follow it, LOL.  It calls for a twill, duck or canvas for the backing and fleece for the top and folding the backing to the front for binding it.  No thanks!   I used this heavy, almost drapery like stuff on the front and back.  I also put the right sides together, stitched and turned it.  This allowed me to sew-in the webbing,  rather than sewing it on externally later.  Now I would have liked something snazzy like chevron stuff but it was too pricey.  This was not cheap either but the lady let me have what was left on the roll and that was another 2 yards of this stuff.  I may use it to make a dog bed for him, not sure yet.

While I don't think he will claw it up, it is a bit slippery and won't stay put very well.  The piece fastens around the front and back headrests with webbing and buckles.  The jury is still out on its effectiveness in keeping the car clean and him safe. It DOES keep him from climbing over it to get up into the front seat BUT (and you knew there was a but!),  he is a small dog and can burrow under it. For example, I dashed into the dollar store on the way back from walking in the park with him the other day and left him strapped in through his leash handle for about 5 minutes.  By the time I came out he was under the hammock, sitting on the console between the front seats and looking at the back seat!!   I strap his leash handle into the passenger front seat belt and roll down the back window so he can see out while in the car.  He whines if you don't roll it down but at least that is better than putting him in the carrier and having him both whine and try to dig his way to China!

And why didn't I take a picture of Oscar in the car??  Well, if the door is open, he is trying to get out, whether he is strapped in or not.  That idea does not work if I am not there to un-do him or guide his descent.  You will have to settle for this one, wanting on the side of the fence where I am on, always.  Where Skyler the mean old cat is?  Not so much.




#3 Several Gingham Goodness items AKA Sewing Room Makeover

Back in January I had laminate flooring put down in the sewing room.  DJ did some painting to freshen things up.  I reluctantly re-hung my ancient green Priscilla curtains which had been in place for 17 years, when we moved in.  It blocks the light but oh, so dated.


BEFORE



 AFTER



McCalls Home Dec In-A Sec #8217---touted as a 1 hour project for both the mock cornice board and the roll up shade.  HA! says I.  I used the Riley Blake "Farm Fresh" line by October Afternoon for the fabrics.  I barely knew what I was doing and consulted with Glynda for help in understanding the pattern and Robert, for the board and drilling.  I was supposed to use angle brackets but I think he misunderstood how I was to mount it and drilled down from the top.  It is screwed into the top of the molding.  While that worked, it also would have gotten in the way of how I was to mount the roll up shade on the back of the 1 x 3 board.  I took Glynda's suggestion of  mounting the shade up with Velcro applied to the window molding.  Now I can at least launder it. Unstaple the scallop thing and it can be laundered too.

Oh, one other thing---I took those dust catcher window pseudo pane things off of the window and then used Valspar frosting spray to obscure the vision through the window.  I got the weirdest cramp in my index finger for all the spraying out of the deal but it was so worth it, LOL as I have the light I need but some degree of privacy.   I can tell you right now I will NOT want to tie and untie that roll up thing every blessed day.  Skyler is not using his perch in here anymore and it is still too hot to want to open up windows so it does not matter to me if neither of us can see out.  I'm getting used to the change, LOL.  I lost some sewing time to waiting for glued on and pressed on Velcro to set up as well as that spray smell to dissipate.

My next coordinate was my Friday (the 12th) project---re-skirting the cutting/pressing table




My Saturday, Sunday projects.  I was re-doing the embellishments first thing this morning  No, amend that. First thing I was stitching up holes in Oscar's duck which was leaking fiberfil and I took the wing that was hanging on by a thread off.  Poor duck is down to one leg, one wing and half his face is gone.  Anyway my first two attempts at making a Kanzashi flower met with broken thread and an accidentally cut thread, respectively.  It was late and I was tired.  My first yo yo used a different fabric that had to be seamed---not a good idea.  I like this result better.


Rotary cutter holder, no pattern but I have one from the guild past president and followed hers, more or less.  The Dreamy Dresden Thread Catcher  is from Curry Bungalow's etsy shop.  I modified one of these before for the Hexie Queen Blog Hop in 30's prints.

I had the bag part of this all pieced yesterday afternoon and then decided I hated the boning look of the cuff plus I wanted the cuff to be much longer.   I re-cut the sections and modified it as I had the first time around by adding several inches to the lining cut heighth and backing it with heavy weight interfacing that I fused in place with stitch witchery.  It is stiff enough.  My contrasting strip is not near as narrow either.

Another view



I still have a good bit of fabric left and have plans for more gingham and coordinates goodness----

The old stuff I want to replace will not go to waste as I plan on packing up a bag of sewing dupes and having it ready to go when I sew away from home, rather than stripping my room every time I go to a sew-in or quilt meeting.    BUT most of that can wait,  for now.  After all, The Rush Hour Hop is coming up next with my featured day of September 29th.  I have not even started, of course, other than buying fabric, etc for what I plan to make.  I am determined NOT to be working right up to the last minute.

Meanwhile, I thank you for hanging out with me for a little while today.  I hope you have enjoyed the hop and will come around for the next one!

52 comments:

  1. Love the new look of your sewing room! I, at one time ages ago, make a window cover similar to yours. They called it a coach shade. Love the blue tree skirt. Thank you for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  2. You sewing room window update is just precious. Great summer projects, Linda. I'm sure the newly married couple will love that tree skirt. I really need to make myself one. I still just drape fabric around the bottom of the tree. Maybe a blog hop project...

    ReplyDelete
  3. The window treatment made a big change to the room! And certainly inspires to create more.

    ReplyDelete
  4. You secretly did loads. Love how you tackle those big projects with no prior knowledge. I tend to do that too....Mostly it works! Your window treatment is beautiful and your cutting table set is adorable! The tree skirt is gorgeous. The hammock for your sweet little dog is - in theory - a great idea. It would not work for my dogs either. They would demolish it in seconds! Thank you for sharing all your projects.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Helen your Christmas Tree Skirt is Beautiful! I bet the Lucky couple will really enjoy having it too. Your Sewing Room additions are sew cozy and really brighten the room. Thanks for sharing your Summer Creations with us!!
    Huggs, Nancy

    ReplyDelete
  6. You have been so busy, I love the new look window.. Matching sewing accessories are the best. I like the idea of having a travelling set.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Wow. all your projects are great. I don`t know where to start. Your dog steals the show.haha! I like what you made for the car for your dog. Your window dressings are smart looking. Your sewing room shows me there is hope for my sewing space to make it look more organized and "cleaner". Not enough words. It`s all splendid.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi Linda..what a difference a new window treatment makes, it shines through all that gingham....lovely that it matches your new catch up and pinny...soooo sweet your tree skirt..lovely design...and for your pup extraordinaire...great idea to keep car clean...
    is it on plastic or somethign? how does it not fall on him? Summer Creativity suits you to a T.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Very nice. I made that same tree skirt for my daughter n law last year for Christmas. It us a very nice kit. Li e your curtain. Your sewing room looks so inviting.Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Linda, your tree skirt is gorgeous! And so is Oscar too btw, and I'm sure he appreciates the Hammock even if he likes the underside more than the top lol! Your sewing room is really pretty too.

    ReplyDelete
  11. you stayed very busy this summer, great projects!!

    ReplyDelete
  12. The makeover looks terrific. It has such an updated look to it now. Your flowers look pretty on the gingham.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Lots of activity here, lol! Great set of useful and pretty things!!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Lovely projects. You did a great job! That tree skirt is pretty.

    ReplyDelete
  15. I LOVE your tree skirt! My sister just got married…wonder if she needs a new tree skirt and a niece getting married next May. Your sewing space is really spruced up with all the new additions! Hope Oscar and Skylar are well… :)

    ReplyDelete
  16. Lovely tree skirt, and cool idea for a dog hammock. Your sewing room changes are very pretty...what a nice place to work in!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Love your sewing room make-over... it looks so bright and fresh. The tree skirt is lovely and will bring such nice memories when they use it each Christmas. Hope Oscar (he has such a sweet face) will enjoy his seat protector... any change just takes a little readjustment. Thanks for sharing today!

    ReplyDelete
  18. The makeover of you sewing room is great, along with the quilt.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Who doesnt love a good sewing room makeover. Yours is great! The projects for the hop are cool! by the way.. those kashi flowers can be a bear!

    ReplyDelete
  20. WOW, what a huge difference with the curtains. Oscar is so darn cute, and the tree skirt is so beautiful. Keep at it .

    ReplyDelete
  21. OMG girl! you sure got a lot done! nothing like a deadline to make one productive, right? Love the updated sewing room, very nice!

    ReplyDelete
  22. What a beautiful Space!!!! and your touches make it even more so! There is a lot of work in making curtains...those are Spectacular!!! GREAT JOB! Now...if I send my address, will you come and sew something beautiful for my room?
    :)

    ReplyDelete
  23. What a clever pet "contraption"! I'll bet your fur baby will get used to it and love it!
    Your new window treatment is beautiful! Isn't it amazing how a simple change can make so much difference!
    Love your sewing accessories! AND thank you so much for putting my little tutorial on your list! I feel so honored!!

    ReplyDelete
  24. your projects are lovely. it is sew much fun to redecorate knowing we made it. makes it sew much more special. thanks for sharing and for inspiring

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hey, Linda! I love, love the non-round look of your tree skirts. I NEED to make one! The sewing room accessories look great!

    ReplyDelete
  26. I love the idea of gifting a tree skirt as a wedding gift and that beautiful blue one will be loved I'm sure! Great sewing room makeover!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Great projects! Love the new window treatment. You have inspired me to update my own.

    ReplyDelete
  28. I love the tree skirt, Linda. One has been on my "to do" list for a long time, but I just can't seem to find the time to get it made.
    I absolutely adore your sewing room. All the projects are so pretty and everything looks so fresh and neat. The new curtain looks awesome. It makes me want to look at my room to see about a change. Thank you for sharing today.

    ReplyDelete
  29. What a lot of great projects. Your "new" sewing room looks wonderful. Great job on everything. Love the pincushion scrap bag.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Great projects and your sewing room looks lovely and inviting.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Lovely and creative projects, Linda. The tree skirt is a lovely gift for the newlyweds to enjoy for years to come. Your doggy surely travels in style in this comfy looking hammock. The sewing room makeover is my favorite, of course. I always love to visit my online quilty friends in their creative home. Yours is sew pretty now! your window and cutting table are sew well dressed that I am feeling very inspired to neat up my quilty corner and make it more inviting. Thanks for sharing your summer ... :) Pat

    ReplyDelete
  32. What what a wonderful idea that doggie hammock is, even is "someone" was smart enough to figure out a way around or under it! LOL! I love your window coverings and all your new sewing room goodies!

    ReplyDelete
  33. Aww, love the story of your dog in the car. Dogs are wonderfully entertaining! Your sewing room is lovely, all coordinated and up dated!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Boy, you HAVE been BUSY! - I counted seven GREAT projects - not just three - all done in time to meet the deadline! And reading about your time pressure reminds me why BOB and I don't DO deadlines anymore - way too stressful - and too much like WORK - haha - ;))

    ReplyDelete
  35. Linda, I am breathless :) not only have you been super busy, you have a long list for more busy! Amazing! The tree skirt sure is lovely. Now your pupster sure looks pouty, wants to be with momma and not left behind the gate :)

    ReplyDelete
  36. Oh, you sound like me...getting a pattern and not really following the directions. Your cover is perfect. I need to make me one of those for my dog. Your room looks so neat. Big improvement on the window. Isn't it fun to re-do your sewing room?

    ReplyDelete
  37. Heavens Linda - you've been sewing up a storm! I love your new window treatment and the matching skirt....such a room brightener. The Christmas tree skirt is beautiful and certainly made a light bulb go off for me. I have two grandsons who got married in the last year so that would be a great Christmas gift. blessings, marlene

    ReplyDelete
  38. Wow Linda, I love your sewingstudio, the curtain is wonderful.
    The Christmas tree is beautiful too.
    Thanks for sharing and beeing part of the hop ☺

    ReplyDelete
  39. Okay, attempt #3 to comment -- hope I don't find out later that they all posted! Love it all -- terrific curtains, and tree skirt is amazing!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Tree skirts as wedding gifts...brilliant idea! Lots of great projects!

    ReplyDelete
  41. So many projects! Your sewing room redo, is looking great. I adore the tree skirt you made, such beautiful blue colors for Christmas.

    ReplyDelete
  42. Waoooh, your curtains are just fantastic, so cute, so neat, really looks professionnal times 10!!!

    ReplyDelete
  43. Linda I love the projects and that little face looking at the camera so cute. Hugs, Susie x

    ReplyDelete
  44. Love your projects and had to laugh at the story about your dog burrowing under to get to the front seat. My daughter just came for a visit and brought her kittens. She had some kind of deal rigged up in her car to try to keep them in the back seat. I don't think that worked very well either! I really like your new sewing room shade and cornice. Nice job on everything.

    ReplyDelete
  45. You sure have been busy. Love the tree skirt and your sewing room looks so fresh and updated with the lovely new window treatment.

    ReplyDelete
  46. I especially like your tree skirt, I get to make a couple myself this year! Thank you for sharing your projects!!
    ~Brandy

    ReplyDelete
  47. Sweet curtains and I love the tree skirt.

    ReplyDelete
  48. Linda,
    Your curtains and sewing room accessories taper just too cute! Love them. The tree skirt is also just gorgeous. Cute pic of your pup. I'm sure it will love cruising with you.

    ReplyDelete
  49. I love your sewing room makeover! The window treatment and accessories are wonderful.

    ReplyDelete
  50. I love how you tackle a project and if you hit a snag, then you rally the troops and find another plan of attack and off you go again, and before we knew it, you had a marvelous, complete project. I adore the blue Christmas skirt. I love blue and find it very calming. The window makeover is amazing. Quite a change. That was a group effort and well done. I like the change to your sewing area and that you are keeping other things to take when you leave home. I love that you have a to-do list. I certainly need one. Thanks for participating and am looking forward to seeing you in the next hop.

    ReplyDelete
  51. I enjoyed seeing a sneak peak of your sewing space.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Beautiful tree skirt, a what a grand idea for a wedding gift. Love your sewing room makeover...WOW, what a difference with your new window coverings!! Thanks for sharing, Pauline

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for stopping by. If you comment will require a reply back, please include your email addy. Unless I am involved in a blog hop, my posts will be moderated and your comment will not appear until I am notified. THX for understanding--this option beats word verification!