British Biscuits Appliqued Cafetiere Cosy

'Sewing World' Magazine October 2015

Regular readers will know that my Patchwork Sprocket Cushion was featured in this month's Sewing World Magazine, however I'm delighted to announce that another of my projects also made an appearance;

This 'Sweet Treats' Appliqued Cafetiere Cosy 

Featuring iconic British biscuits such as Jammy Dodgers and Fox's Party Rings, it's just the thing to add some fun retro chic to any kitchen.  The appliqued biscuits conjure up such memories of childhood teatime treats, I was always partial to a 'Nice' coconut biscuit although I wasn't quite so keen on Pink Wafers!

The magazine includes a full sized pattern and should the teacup not rock your boat, simply change it for the recipient's initial;

The design is also perfect for tea cosies....

...time to get started on stitching all your Christmas gifts!

Patchwork Wedge Sprocket Cushion

'Sewing World' Magazine Feature

October's Sewing World Magazine is in the shops now and includes my 'Sophia' patchwork pillow;

I stitched it up using the stunning range of Sophia fabrics by Makower UK.  A new 1950s retro inspired collection in yummy creams, teals, mustards and pinks.  I loved using this range and the clever mix of modern and classic means that the finished cushions would be a stylish addition to any home!

The pattern is perfect for beginners as the cute little covered button cleverly conceals any mis-matched points!  I made my piping for a fully coordinated look but for a first project omit it completely or simply use pre-made.  The magazine tutorial includes easy to follow step-by-step instructions with colour photos and a full sized pattern piece.

Kraft-tex Zipper Pouch Tutorial

Washable Vegan Leather Paper

I was delighted to be asked to make a zipper pouch for this month's Buddly Craft blog post with Kraft-tex a paper product which  looks, feels and wears like leather but sews, cuts and washes like fabric.  It is basically the same material as the label on denim jeans and they often seem to outlast the jeans themselves!

I stitched up a 'Back to School' pencil case for my son and was able to use a label from a well-known British supermarket, as he has the same name as their clothing range!

Should you not have had the foresight to name your child after a shop, then you can still personalise your Kraft-tex creations as it can be put through an inkjet printer, decorated with stamps or simply doodled on.

http://www.artchalahandmade.com/

Pinterest is full of inspiration for this wonderful material 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/DoodooShop

I'm now off to order some in each of the five colours available, especially the very gorgeous black!

Sewing World Magazine ~ SewforSoul Feature!

Back to School Zipper Pouch ~ September 2015

September's Sewing World Magazine is in the shops now and features my 'Back to School' owl pencil case and coin purse. 

The main body of the purse was made with vintage fabric salvaged from a bag of rags at my mum's house (her local charity shop collects waste cloth ready for recycling).  She bought most of her fabrics back in the 1970s and 80s although we can't place this piece, does anyone else remember it?

As always, the published article includes full written instructions with easy to follow step-by-step photos;

I'm actually a little bit late blogging this feature as I try to ensure that the school holidays are 'family time', so it's now not long until the next issue of Sewing World Magazine and I'm delighted to see that I've got another two makes being published!