It's Almost Christmas

It's almost here! 

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. I love the glittery decorations, decorating the tree, making and purchasing gifts, baking and spending time with family and friends. Most of my baking is done and gifts are wrapped and sent away and the others are under the tree.

Do you have all your gifts finished and wrapped? Or do you put things off to the last moment? In any case, you have one day left to get it all done.So why don't you take a few minutes to relax and have a look at some 'stuff' to ponder for your next project.

• I've linked up with the Needle & Thread Network again.
• Please check out the 110 links on Crazy Mom Quilts. I'm sure you will need a cup / glass of something before you start. 
• I do like this free Log Cabin Hexi Potholder pattern from Craftsy.

 A baking tradition at my house are these Melting Moments shortbread cookies. Mmmmmmm!!!

Going on vacation . . . be organized!

School will soon be finished for another year and families will be going on vacation. If not a lengthy vacation then day trips to the beach or on picnics. In any event, I found some sewing/quilting projects that might be useful.
Back Seat Vehicle organizer
Travel Tips 
Baby Wipes Case
Travel Pillow
Picnic Tote and Tablecloth 
Sew Great Travel Accessories 
Travel Jewelry Case
Travel Bag Patterns and Projects 
Pot Holder Travel 'Sewing Project' Kit   - this is a quick project!
Travel Sewing Kit 

Mother's Day Ideas

My mother is 88 years old. At her stage in life, she is trying to get rid of things. For presents, she wants only 'stuff' she can wear or eat!. Well, a number of years ago, I was at my wits end as to what to get her. I had been making small fabric fish for my art work and it suddenly dawned on me that she has collected small pins to wear on her clothes for years. That sudden inspiration lead to a line of wearable art pins(scroll down).  I make some images by stitching them by free motion on my sewing machine. Others have been designed and converted to stitch for my embroidery machine. Needless to say, my mother usually gets # 1 of each new design. Here's a few samples of my pins:

Here's some other ideas for gifts to make for mom (or yourself):

• checkbook cover
• eyeglass case
• pot holder
• cell phone case
• purses & bags
• bed caddy
• patio chair pad