In Need of Cushion Covers

I recently redecorated my sitting room and the colour scheme is very muted.  The wallpaper is an ivory and oyster damask.  My sofas are leather and I really need some colour in there.  It seems particularly cold at this time of year.

A couple of weeks ago I discovered the joy of paper pieced patchwork and I thought that patchwork cushions might be just the thing to add an accent of colour.

In the search for a compass based design, I came across the Quilting on the Square website.  They are doing a free Block of the Month that started in February but is exactly what I was looking for.  I started the first block (February) teatime yesterday and have finished it and made it up as a cushion.

The block makes up to 12 inches, so I added a 2 inch border all around to fit a 16 inch cushion pad.  Using batik fabrics, instead of solids, I have lost some of the clear definition of the original.  The original pattern below, is called 'Which Way North '

To join in the fun before it is too late, go to:
http://quiltingonthesquare.com/compass-collection.aspx
I can't wait to get started on the March block!

Getting into the mood for Christmas

I went on a one day course at Kathy's Patch in Folkestone yesterday and learned how to make Christmas table mats.  It was great fun and I learned lots!  Patterns for 6 tablemats and a table runner were provided.  I had time to make two, but hope to complete the set before the big day!

Busy weekend!

Many thanks to the lovely collectors who adopted Teddybuys teddies over the weekend!  White Christmas, Joy and Charm are all on their way to the US.  Little Plum has already settled into her new home in Essex.

Camellia is still looking for a new home.  More details are on the Available page.

The Christmas Treasures Online Show has started...

There are lots of lovely bears available for adoption at www.teddiesworldwide.com

Over 70 bear artists have made teddies for this showcase of international bear artistry.

I have made several whimsical, pre-loved style teddies as well as two polar bears...and even a traditional teddy with a loud, tilt growler. 

The show closes Sunday evening.

Hugs

Sue

Teddy available for Adoption

Sky is available for adoption.  Her details are on the 'Available' Tab of this blog.

Christmas Treasures Online Show Preview has Started

The Teddies Worldwide Online Show Preview has opened.  You can see the preview bears of over 80 International bear artists at www.teddiesworldwide.com and vote for your favourites until the 15th November.  There are two categories - under 5 inches and over 5 inches.  The theme for the preview piece is: a Christmas carol or song.

My preview piece is: White Christmas

He is a sweet, white teddy, who shares his Christmas stocking with a wool felt gingerbread man and tree bauble.

There are some wonderful preview pieces - well worth a visit!

Free Giveaway

Svetlana Stakheeva is giving away a gorgeous ellie on the 7th November.  To enter the draw, go to:
http://abcbears.blogspot.co.uk

Where the Heart Is

I cannot show the bears that are being prepared for the Christmas Treasures Show next month, ...but I can show you other projects I have on the go! 

Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love flowers and the garden. A few weeks ago, I became intrigued by silk ribbonwork and made a few pansies from a kit.  I wanted more, so signed up for a three week online Joggles course called Scrumptious Hearts with Christen Brown.  The course covered how to dye silk ribbon and lace and how to make a few different flowers, finishing with using them to embellish little hearts.  I thoroughly recommend the course.  I loved it.  I didn't follow the instructions entirely, but I have always marched to my own drum.  My hearts have ended up as pincushions, as I added 4 layers of batting to make them thick enough.  (Not much room left for pins, though!)

I feel that I am just at the start of this journey, and look forward to more of this work, when bear making, housework and gardening commitments allow!