By Judith on September 7, 2020 0 Comments (Leave comment)
I love seeing the same pattern being made in a wide range of fabrics and styles!
My Betty Bag is growing in popularity and I want to show you some stunning finishes!
Aren’t they fabulous!
I just love how stylishly practical they are, ready for some serious use about town!
And 3 more to show you.
These are Betty Bags made by my #threadsacrossthesea buddies, Trudi, Sarah and Di.
Because we weren’t able to have our annual meet up this year, we had ourselves a secret swap, making Betty, and had an exciting reveal over zoom at the weekend. I received the first one pictured, which was from the super talented Trudi (@Trudi_wood), made in stunning Art Gallery Fabrics, received together with this package of cuteness!
This is a free motion sketched picture by Stitched Up by Samantha! Isn’t it gorgeous! Totally my kind of art!
Thank you everyone for taking part in my Betty Bag class, and to Trudi for my very own Betty!
The Betty Bag pre-recorded YouTube course is available here.
By Judith on September 3, 2020 0 Comments (Leave comment)
I’m super excited to let you know about my latest teaching project:
Kindred Spirits Quilt (Coastal) 64″ x 76″
This is the Kindred Spirits Sampler Quilt and I will be teaching this as a weekly quilt-along, starting 14th September through to end January ’21.
Each week there will be a new block to make and a new technique focus (some blocks have 2 weeks allocated).
This was a project I already had in mind for my actual classes at Conway Mill. But as I’m not back to running my classes yet (thanks to Coronavirus!) I thought I would go ahead and teach it online! And that means anyone can join in!
This quilt-along is all about building skills, building confidence and building community. Here are a few more thoughts on what this quilt-along represents:
So what do you get?
All the teaching will come in the form of
pre-recorded videos emailed each week into your inbox. These videos will include accurately cuttin fabric and using templates. The videos mean you have complete control -press pause, replay and sew at your own pace
PDF documents (colouring sheets & cutting instructions)
Professionally art-worked templates (as needed)
and you will be supported every step of the way through our interactive social media groups where you can ask questions, share tips and ideas, access bonus features, make new friends and create community!
And here are a few other colourways you could consider:
The full list of materials and equipment needed is available here, as well as the schedule of our block making throughout the 4 months.
And finally, by taking part in this Quilt-Along, you will also be supporting a charity close to my heart.
£5 from every registration will be donated to Shared Threads, who make reuseable sanitary pads and hygiene packs for women and girls who are struggling with period poverty at home and abroad.
Here’s Kirsty to tell you more:
If you’d like more information about the work of Shared Threads or how you can get involved, check out their website here.
And so the countdown begins!
I do hope you will consider joining us for an Autumn term of fun, learning and connecting!
(Booking will be available from 14th September here)
By Judith on August 2, 2020 3 Comments (Leave comment)
We are delighted to announce our next online class:
The Betty Bag is a slimline purse designed for holding your essentials without creating a bulky bag!
Whether you are travelling, out for the evening or just want a hands free shopping experience, the Betty Bag will perfectly meet your needs.
The zippered compartments are great for coins and notes (maybe even a second currency!). In behind those there is space for a passport and phone, and in behind that is a credit card slot.
The strap can be made in 2 lengths, a shoulder strap or a crossbody strap.
And it is removeable too, so you can easily convert your bag into a stylish clutch purse!
The class will take the form of videos via YouTube, so you can stop or pause the steps to suit your pace and replay sections if you need to watch steps again.
Initially the class will be released on Monday 10th August in 3 weekly parts to my existing class ladies before being released for general sale as 1 complete video on Monday 31st August.
25 of my regular ladies have had lots of fun making the bag the past 4 weeks, and the results are amazing!! Here are a few of their photos.
Aren’t they beautiful!
I love seeing all the different fabrics used, which totally change the personality of the bag!
Well done ladies! I hope you (& your recipients) get lots of enjoyment out of your fabulous bags!
Here’s another little resume of what the YouTube class covers:
*hand applique (Needleturn)
*machine applique (Satin and blanket stitch)
*suitable materials for the bag
*quilting
*reinforced divider pocket
*snap fasteners for divider pocket & alternatives
*making handles
*handbag construction
The class consists of 1 YouTube video and 2 PDF files. You can purchase the class here.
In your order confirmation email you will receive links to 2 PDFs – one is the full list of materials needed. The other is the heart template which also includes the link to the YouTube video. Copy and paste this link into your internet browser to access the video.
When printing the heart template, either select ‘Actual Size’ or deselect ‘Fit To Page’ printer settings.
I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing some of our class finishes (always my favourite part!).
Janet made 2 of the same cushion, so extra kudos to you Janet!!
Aren’t they gorgeous! And I know there are a few more still in the making!
Well done ladies for your amazing results and bearing with the imperfections in my first online class and being patient with our Zoom sessions!
I’m so looking forward to our next class starting tomorrow! Nothing beats actual ‘in person’ classes, but for lockdown, this is definitely the next best thing!
By Judith on May 31, 2020 0 Comments (Leave comment)
We are still very much in lockdown here, so ‘teaching’ has had to look very different for me.
Aside from my free video tutorials on YouTube, I trialled an online class last month with my ladies – the Causeway Hexie Cushion.
Feedback from the ladies was really positive and I’m looking forward to showing you their results!
Spurred on by their brilliant results and encouragement, I’m making another class available – the Applique Hearts Boxy Bag.
This class will be available first to my ladies from 8th June, and then to the general public from 6th July.
As before, the class will consist of 4 weekly YouTube videos, with an optional zoom session at the end of each session (existing class members only). This is when we check in with each other, talk about any issues, swoon over our progress and fabric choices etc. and generally stay connected (as best we can!).
This boxy bag design is a variation on my original Boxy Bag class I designed and taught way back in 2011!
I often call it my book bag, because the short handles and sturdy body really lend themselves to carrying heavy books and files, to work, college, church or the library!
However, I also think it would be a great project bag. There is a handy divider pocket which could keep a pattern book with lots of room in the main bag for a knitting or crafting project.
I chose to needleturn my hearts onto the bag, but as you will see in the ‘what we cover’ section below, I also show you how to machine applique too!
So here’s what we will cover in this class:
*hand applique (Needleturn)
*machine applique (Satin and blanket stitch)
*suitable materials for the bag
*quilting
*reinforced divider pocket
*snap fasteners for divider pocket
*making handles
*handbag construction
Many of the materials I have used in this bag are available in my shop.
So if you need another practical and sturdy bag in your life, or can think of someone who would love one, why not join us on either 8th June or 6th July for some step by step handbag making fun!
By Judith on April 29, 2020 0 Comments (Leave comment)
It seems like an age since we were last in class creating a holy mess with strips of fabric, wool fibres, thread and hospital bandages (don’t ask!!)!
We were well in the throws of making Textile Art Pictures, using a water soluble fabric technique for the background, and then building up a picture on top.
I’ve had a few finished photos sent to me of completed pictures, and they are pretty amazing!
Aren’t they fab! I love how each one is uniquely different, expressing favourite thoughts, colours, flowers and words.
I know this particular project was a real hit with some of my ladies, who had ideas and plans for several more pictures!
If you’d like to have a go at a similar technique, check out my free tutorial here on how to turn little scraps into applique shapes using water soluble fabric (available to purchase here).
And it’s soo lovely to see your scrappy pouches, made using my first YouTube tutorial.
Thank you everyone for sending me your pics! They bring a smile to my face!
By Judith on February 16, 2020 1 Comment (Leave comment)
At the end of February we will be having a half term break from classes.
Which means, a new block of classes kicks off in March up until Easter.
And a new block of classes means a new (optional) class project.
We’re going to dip our creative toes into some textile art this term, having unadulterated play-time with mixed textiles and medium.
I’ve 2 class samples to showcase several fun techniques.
Picture 1:
This is a 12″ picture in a box frame.
The background can be made with strips of torn linens, cottons, lace, voile, broderie anglaise and anything else light weight which is textured or can fray well. I even included fine strands of felting wool!
We then use a water-soluble fabric to matchstick quilt the background before adding our composition on top.
I’ve chosen some flowers and seed heads, but you could quite easily go with a bird, meadow or beach theme. Let your creativity run wild!
In the making of my picture I used the following techniques:
couching
free motion embroidery
paper aging
embellishing
I also included some cut out some embroidered yellow flowers from an old duvet cover!!
What a lot of fun! You’ll never look at textured fabrics, bedding and apparel in the same way again!
Picture 2:
I love word art! There’s nothing quite like the perfectly spoken word at exactly the right time to create profound impact and legacy.
If you enjoy poetry and literature you can have so much fun with your composition here. Or how about the name and meaning of a loved one? What a special gift.
The background is made in the same way as picture 1. I’ve also included free motion sketching and printed text here. This time though, I’ve embellished my picture with text printed onto fabric. You need an inket jet printer and freezer paper do to this.
I’m so looking forward to seeing what artistic impressions are released when this class starts in March!
If you would like to join us for some textile creativity, check out all the classes and vacancies here.
By Judith on February 2, 2020 0 Comments (Leave comment)
In our current block of classes we are looking at tucks and pleats.
You may remember I had made 2 examples of tucks for our classes, but at the time was still working on a pleats sample.
And here it is:
The pattern for this pleated bag is by Lisa Lam (U-handbag.com) and is called ‘For Pleats Sake!’. You can find the free tutorial here.
The tutorial doesn’t include quantities for the exterior and interior fabrics.
If you are using non-directional fabric you will need 0.5 metre of both. However, if you have a direction to your pattern which follows the width of the bolt, you will need 0.75 metres.
And a further note on the fabrics. I used ‘deco’ (decorating) weight fabric (or lightweight curtaining) from Ikea. This fabric gives body to the bag, pleats beautifully and negates the need for interfacing or fusible fleece.
I used the same weight for the lining (a vintage curtain) which also gets pleated. However if you wanted to use quilting weight cotton I recommend using a heavy weight sew-in stabiliser (rather than fusible fleece) on both the exterior and lining. Spray baste the sew-in stabiliser rather than using a fusible heavy weight stabiliser as this could resist the light weight cotton and cause it to bubble.
Sewing the faux leather handles through the exterior layers only can be tricky (the handles can’t be held in place with pins and the needle comes out awkwardly between the exterior and lining!). So try sewing through both layers and covering the visible back stitching with glued on fabric or leather scraps.
P.s. you want to use really strong thread to sew on your handles, like linen, perle cotton or 6 strand embroidery floss.
The bags currently being made in class are gorgeous! I can’t wait to show you them at half term, with the equally beautiful pleated pouches and cushions! It’s a hive of wondrous activity!
(Want to know the difference between pleats and tucks? See here)
By Judith on December 6, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Well it’s hard to believe that we only have 1 more week of classes left for 2019! Where on earth did that year go!!
I can’t wait to show you the beautiful wreaths folks have been making as part of our (optional) class project this term. They’re stunning!
But before one term is out I always present to my classes what the next term’s (optional) class project will be.
Our technique focus next term will be Pleats & Tucks.
The main difference between pleats and tucks is that pleats are formed by folding the same length of fabric into folds which are only stitched down at the top and bottom ends, whereas tucks are constructed separately and then sewn into the project.
You will of course be more familiar with seeing pleats and tucks in clothing and apparel, but I love how different techniques in textiles can cross over into other disciplines, usually with a little creative tweaking!
So far I have 2 class samples made (both tucks!), but I hope to have one more pleated sample completed before the start of term!
Cushion with Tucks:
There are many different effects you can achieve by manipulating tucks.
I really like the ‘spread’ effect you get from this variation of the Wave Tuck. You can see each of the feature fabrics standing out nicely against the black Essex Yarn Dyed Linen.
Zippy Pouch with Tucks
This is an example of Twisted Tucks. Before sewing along the bottom edge of the pouch, the tucks are twisted back, revealing the secondary colour. This effect adds a lovely decorative touch to bags and pouches.
So that’s us (almost) ready for next term. If you would like to join us for some creative sewing fun, you can see all the available classes here.
In the meantime I have a few Christmas presents to make, and the small matter of workshops for February’s Retreat to make too!
I have used 3 fabrics in my double wreath. I like the versions which have a 3rd fabric peeping out at the edges of the folds. I’m a bit fussy when it comes to Christmas fabrics so I chose 2 Tilda fabrics (a Christmas red and a non-Christmas pink) and a non-Christmas cream by Lewis & Irene.
While the construction of this wreath may look complicated, let me assure you that it isn’t (I love it when patchwork deceptively portrays complexity!).
Each row is made the same way. The repetitve nature of making square ‘coasters’ and cleverly joining them into a circle means you can stop at a single wreath (as a candle mat or door-hanging) or keep going and make additional rounds.
I stopped at 2 rounds and decorated the centre with a Scandi birdhouse. But at the class you will have the option of making a single, double or triple wreath.
And if you like your bling, you’ll love decorating your wreath! Metallic threads, beads, bells and baubles are all up for grabs! Let your Christmas creativity go wild!
And of course, if you’re not a Christmas fan, why not make a beautiful autumnal or winter wreath!
Lots of options and variations are open to you with this optional class project.
The new block kicks of w/c 5th November and runs for 6 weeks. Booking available here.
By Judith on September 19, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Our studio in August looked a little bit like a jeans factory, as many pairs of jeans were massacred in the honourable pursuit of making my Boro Denim Bag pattern.
Repurposing projects are among my favourites, and it was exciting to see the ladies’ bags grow in a very organic, non-prescriptive way.
While some of the techniques are the same e.g. ‘quilt as you go’ and measured bag construction, each bag looks uniquely different because of the different denim placements and features used.
Like an archeological dig, there was much excavating through the pile of jeans for pockets, loops, leather labels and interesting design features which were rescued and treasured for embellishing the bags!
Doesn’t Glenda looked pleased with her finished bag!
There are a few more bags that are still in the making, but to all my ‘bag ladies’ I’d like to say a big well done on your repurposing and bag making skills! The variety and creativity you showed in the hand and machine quilting of your bags was inspiring!
If you would like to have a go at your own Denim Boro bag, you can find the pattern here.
(Newsletter subscribers will have received a 50% off coupon code for this pattern in the Autumn ’19 edition – expires 25th Sept.)
By Judith on August 14, 2019 1 Comment (Leave comment)
Last Saturday was sultry and wet, the perfect day for sewing!
We had our ‘Quilt Top In A Day’ Workshop at the studio, with 7 ladies making either my Mama Boho or Baby Boho Quilt pattern (see if you can spot my Mama Boho Quilt in the picture below!).
Mama Boho is a great quilt design for using large and bold prints, and the simple half square triangle construction means blocks are made in double quick time!
Look at these dramatic Mama Boho Quilts …..
70″ x 88″ finished
And while there is a little waste generated from the triangle corners that are cut away, even these can be repurposed into a co-ordinating cushion cover!
The Baby Boho quilt is ‘layer cake friendly’ – just look at these cuties!!!
38″ x 48″ finished
Aren’t they adorable!
Well done ladies on a productive day sewing your flimsies!
So if you need a quilt made up quickly why not try Mama or Baby Boho Quilt pattern, available here.
By Judith on August 4, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
It’s only 4 weeks until my Autumn term of classes starts back!
Our classes are ‘open’, which means they are mixed ability and you can work on any Patchwork and Quilting project you like, getting all the help and support you need.
But I also provide an optional class project each term. These might focus on a new technique, one of my new patterns or a new challenge to keep growing those brain cells!
In our new term we will be tackling soft toys!
I know these will be a hit with Grannies, Mummies and big kids alike!
I’ve curated 3 toy patterns from around the creative web to tempt my lovely ladies to try these cute 3d shapes!
By Judith on July 31, 2019 4 Comments (Leave comment)
I’m excited to share with you my latest bag pattern!
This is my Denim Boro Bag, created from some ‘denim playtime’ in my sewing room, and crafted into a 5 week class starting today.
I always love playing with denim on my sewing machine, but I was surprised at how much I also enjoyed the boro/sashiko style hand stitching! (You can read more about my joyful process here.)
And my pattern testers told me they also enjoyed making their bags! Just check these out….
by Jennifer aka Patchwork Mummy
by Wendy aka Bothybird
by Nicola aka Nicola Foreman Quilts
by Mary aka Handmade by Mary Emmens
(no picture yet from Di aka Willowbeck Designs)
Aren’t they amazing!! And it’s great to hear that the bags are being used and loved!
A big thank you to my 5 pattern testers for your constructive feedback, comments and support!
And if you would like to have a go at your own Denim Boro Bag, the pattern is available here.
By Judith on July 1, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Each term we have an optional project or technique focus, where ladies can try their hand at something new!
Monsoon Quilt
In our Easter to Summer term some of my ladies decided to try their hand at my recent Monsoon/Frost Quilt Pattern.
This project was all about accuracy, both in cutting and piecing lots of triangles (with pesky bias edges). Everyone found it a little tricky at one stage or another, learning how to create pointy points, correct fabric placement or bringing the blocks in on size.
But I’m so proud of my ladies for rising to the challenge and pushing through their comfort zones to accomplish a more advanced pattern.
Here are a few finishes and progress shots, but there are quite a few more still in the ‘Work In Progress’ category!
I’m hoping with the summer recess I’ll see a few more Monsoon and Frost finishes by September!
If you would like to make your own version of Monsoon or Frost, the pattern is available here.
By Judith on June 9, 2019 4 Comments (Leave comment)
Following the immense fun I had making the patchwork denim pouch for my daughter’s friend, I just had to make a bag in the same boro style!
Oh I had a ball mixing one of my favourite textiles (denim) with one of my favourite pastimes (patchwork & quilting) while fulfilling one of my favourite values (recyling!).
This is a great project for using up all those torn and unwanted jeans, denim scraps and interesting bits!
If, like me, you love recycling and not adding to landfill, why not join us for some repurposing and patchwork fun at our Studio at Conway Mill, Belfast.
Over 5 Wednesday evenings I’ll show you how to reuse your old jeans to make a patchwork and quilted cross-body denim bag, with feature ‘boro’ stitching.
There’ll be lots of advice on the best threads and needles to use, how to quilt the denim, putting a zippered pocket into the lining, and how to make an adjustable shoulder strap.
If you too would like to have a ridiculous grin like mine (!!) come and join the repurposing fun! Booking available here.
By Judith on May 20, 2019 2 Comments (Leave comment)
Last week in classes I taught a short lesson on the Log Cabin Family of blocks!
I’m going to take you through the 3 main categories in a series of posts, with a mystery post to finish the series!
Part 1: Log Cabin
Part 2: Courthouse Steps
Part 3: Pineapple
Part 4: Watch this space!
I demonstrated a few variations within each category, but there are many more than what I can show you here (follow the Pinterest links for lots more inspiration!).
(All the sample blocks have been made using Handmade by Makower)
Part 1: Log Cabin
1 Traditional:
The standard log cabin block starts with a square centre (traditionally this would have been red) adding ‘logs’ around the centre square (either clockwise or anti-clockwise) in rounds. All the logs are the same width.
The traditional log cabin block was the first block I learned, and made a little quilt for my young daughter using chopped up clothes and linens!
You can find a tutorial on how to make a 12″ traditional block here.
2 Colour Rounds:
This variation of Log Cabin follows exactly the same construction as the traditional version, but keeping the fabric choice of each round the same.
Just a change of fabric placement dramatically changes the look of this block. Here’s another similar example, the back of quilt I made several years ago.
3 Wonky:
If you enjoy a little ‘improv’ piecing then how about a Wonky Log Cabin!
Again the logs are added in rounds, but this time, the sides are sliced at irregular angles before adding the next log.
While strips are useful to start with here, the width of the finished logs will be varied. No two blocks will be the same!
This can be a really fun block to make if you like a little more ‘freedom’ in your piecing. Just keep adding rounds until your block is a little bigger than you need, then square it off to the required size.
Here’s an example of a Wonky Log Cabin Quilt I made for Quilt Now Magazine several years ago.
4 Curved:
To achieve a curved effect in a Log Cabin block, the background logs must be thinner than the coloured logs.
The curved effect becomes more obvious when you put 4 blocks together to create a ‘circle’:
The bigger the difference between the widths of the background and coloured logs, the greater the curve!
There are lots more variations of Log Cabin, like the Quarter Log Cabin (adding logs to the same two adjacent sides each round, rather than to all four sides) ….
(Quarter Log Cabin Cushion tutorial available here.)
….. or how about starting your Log Cabin block with a different shape!!
These are definitely on my Quilts Bucket List!
And as if that’s not enough, check out my Log Cabin Pinterest board for lots more inspiration from around the Quilty Web!
Come back soon for part 2 of The Log Cabin Family of Blocks!
By Judith on April 14, 2019 2 Comments (Leave comment)
Yesterday we got all folksy at our Tea Cosy Workshop!
We were few in number, but the chatter and vibe was as warm and inviting as the cosies!
The raw edge applique was new to some, but with the easier option of top stitching also available, nothing held back these creative endeavours.
Aren’t they adorable!
Well done ladies on your cute cosies (I just know your tea will taste even better now!).
My Folksy Tea Cosy Pattern is available here, and includes a 2nd applique design and instructions on how to measure your teapot for a perfectly fitting cosy.
By Judith on April 12, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
This week saw the end of our current block of classes.
The optional class project was all about Triaxial and Basket Weaving.
I had made 3 class samples to showcase the different types of fabric weaving I would be teaching, but as you will see, a few creative minds didn’t stop there!
Aren’t they stunning! A few little notebook covers didn’t manage the photoshoot, but I’m sure you can guess how wonderful they are!
In the end, we were unable to source Wefty weaving needles here in the UK, and while we managed pretty well instead with large safety pins, the Wefty needles are certainly advantageous when it comes to the more complex triaxial weave. I would definitely recommend these genius little tools!
So a huge well done to my weaving ladies for stepping up to the challenge (especially when it came to triaxial weaving!) and producing beautiful work!
And of course, these weren’t the only projects being worked on! Well done to all my other ladies on your pre-Easter finishes.
I hope you all have a wonderfully creative and choccy-filled Easter break!
(Classes resume w/c 29th April – booking available here.)
By Judith on February 17, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
It’s half term here this incoming week, and I’m looking forward to getting a few (overdue) jobs done around the house!
We finished another round of classes last week. There was a flurry of makes including wallhangings, cushions, zippy pouches, hot water bottle covers, baby quilts, baby baskets, and many more.
And of course, there were lots of Necessary Clutch Wallets! Check out this amazing clutch of clutches!
Aren’t they brilliant! And some of them have already been used in travels abroad.
(you can purchase the Necessary Clutch Wallet here)
Well done to all my talented ladies! Enjoy your well deserved break!
And if you’d like to join us for some creative fun, our new block kicks off w/c 25th February. There are 6 weekly classes to choose from – check out the vacancies here.
By Judith on February 9, 2019 1 Comment (Leave comment)
Already we are coming to the end of our first block of 2019 classes. This week we will wrap up our Necessary Clutch wallets and New Year projects.
I can’t wait to show you all the finished clutches!
And I’m a little bit excited to show you our (optional) class project for the Feb-April block.
In our next block of classes I will be showing 3 different weaving techniques, 2 of which use the Wefty Weaving Needle.
A Wefty Needle comes in 2 sizes, 1″ and 0.5″ and enables weaving both simple and complex designs with little/no fabric waste.
Once you have a deliciously woven panel you can turn it into a pretty basket, a tactile cushion, a useful notebook cover, anything you like!
I’ll have notes available on how to make my 3 examples, but you don’t have to stick to these projects. Just check out my Weaving Pinterest Board for lots more mind blowing inspiration!
Linen Basket Weave Cushion
This is a beginner friendly project, keeping the strips wider and easy to weave into a traditional basket weave pattern.
We don’t use the Wefty Needle on this project, a large safety pin will suffice, though there will be a little fabric waste at the end of each woven strip.
And if you haven’t already them sussed, how about trying some buttonholes and self covered buttons as your cushion closure?
Houndstooth Journal Cover
These 0.5″ strips are woven with the Wefty Needle into a houndstooth pattern.
Again we are using a traditional basket weave here, but clever placement of strips produces the secondary pattern.
I turned my woven panel into a journal cover (my notebook cover pattern is available here), but you could easily use this as a decorative panel in a bag or add some borders for a textured placemat or cushion.
Triaxial Woven Basket
Triaxial means 3 angles. Unlike a basket weave (with only vertically and horizontally woven strips) triaxial weaving involves strips woven at vertical and 2 thirty degree angles.
For my cute basket I’ve used the 1″ Wefty Needle. Triaxial weaving is more complex than basket weaving designs, but once you get your head around it, there are many more amazing designs which can be produced from the 3 angles.
So if you fancy a spot of weaving over the next 7 weeks, or just want to carve out some therapeutic sewing time to work on other projects, why not come join the fun and book into one of our 6 weekly classes.
By Judith on January 1, 2019 0 Comments (Leave comment)
My classes start back next week, and our class project this term is The Necessary Clutch Wallet by Emmaline Bags.
This is a great pattern, and with a little bag making experience, one can start to experiment a little with the design (you can read all about my first 2 wallets here).
For my 3rd Necessary Clutch, I went for a stiffer interfacing in the flap, keeping the design simple to show off the Japanese fabrics ( Kimono by Makower).
2 other additions to this clutch were the shoulder strap (instructions available here) making this more of a stylish evening bag,
… and rivets instead of sewing the thicker sides (big thanks to Svetlana for this inspired idea!).
I think is my new favourite Necessary Clutch!
Now all I need is a little black dress and a handsome man to go with it (actually, forget the last part!!).
There are still a few spaces available if you’d like to have a go at making this clutch, in a friendly and supported environment. Just drop me an email at justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk.
What an amazing year it has been, both inside the classroom and outside it!
One of my professional highlights in 2018 was attending Patchwork in the Peaks Quilters Retreat, Morzine, France, as guest tutor.
And on a personal level, hosting a memory quilt party for my special friend’s 50th birthday in February was a wonderful day!
Helping 2 charities, Shared Threads and Flourish, launch their new sewing initiatives, both aimed at improving the lives of women, locally and internationally was (and continues to be) a pleasure and a privilege.
Among the many highs and lows that come in a year, I’m reminded of my ‘word for the year’ back in January ’18 – RHYTHM.
I set a word at the start of each year to give me a focus to my professional and life goals.
After a massive year of change in 2017, I feel I definitely achieved some rhythm, allowing life to settle some, and to get into my stride with the new classroom and home.
Of course there were still changes in 2018, some happy, some sad, some expected, some unexecpted; the normalcy of life demands it.
But amidst it all, I have much to be thankful for and am content to leave 2018 with a smile, and embrace the exciting new chapter that is 2019.
Come back soon to find out all about my word for 2019!
By Judith on December 16, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
My last class of 2018 finished last Thursday!
What a wonderful term (& year!) it was! And I think, one of our most productive!
Here’s a little snapshot of some of the amazing makes my ladies have been beavering away at!
There are many more amazing projects and gifts that will be bringing smiles to lots of faces this Christmas.
Let’s just say there will some truly blessed recipients out there! My ladies are some of the most talented and generous people I know, and they have continued to inspire me all year!
For me, I plan to continue working on patterns, plans and projects for next year. But I will be taking a break over Christmas, to spend time with 2 of my girls, a little EPP, some reading and much needed rest!
Whatever you are planning over the next few weeks, I pray you will be happy and healthy!
By Judith on December 7, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
In classes this week I presented my 2019 (January-April) Saturday workshops.
They got a wonderful response, and I’m happy to share them with you here.
So let me tell you a little more about what you can expect in each workshop:
I’ve scheduled again my most popular workshop – Free Motion Quilting and Sketching.
In this workshop you get lots of practice time to learn at least 6 ‘beginner friendly’ free motion designs, fillers and how to quilt a cot size quilt.
The 2nd half of the day is all about Free Motion Sketching, where you can relax a little and have fun with this raw edge applique and writing technique.
My cute friend ‘Harriet Hare’ (from my Woodland Friends quilt) makes her appearance in tweed!
Tweed is a favourite textile among many sewers, and mixed with pretty cottons and satin stitch applique, you have one gorgeous cushion!
(The pattern for Harriet Hare Cushion will be released after the workshop.)
At our Apron workshop in March there will be 2 styles to choose from – the Japanese style ‘Cross-over’ apron and my ‘Apron in Jar’, a practical and stylish apron which folds into a decorated mason jar for gifting.
The pattern for the Apron in a Jar includes a child’s size template and will be released after the workshop.
We wrap up our first term of ‘Sewing Saturdays’ with some folksy tea cosies.
Bring your teapot along to this workshop, and we will have fun appliqueing a ‘made to measure’ cosy for your pot.
I will be posting more information about each workshop nearer the time.
Places are limited, so book early (waiting lists available if fully booked). Just drop me an email at justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk
By Judith on December 1, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Happy December to you all!
We are on the final countdown to Christmas, and with only 2 more weeks of classes left, my attention has turned to the new class project for next term!
This is the Necessary Clutch Wallet, by Emmaline Bags.
This is a well designed and written pattern, and I can think of many occasions when a stylish and compact little clutch would be perfect.
During this class project you will learn:
how to insert hardware (twist/turn locks, D-rings, swivel fobs)
how to make a zippered pocket
to use different interfacings for different parts of the clutch
how to vary the flap design
how to sew cork fabric
how to insert rivets
You will have the option of adding a wristlet or shoulder strap (not shown here) and also how to insert rivets into the bulky sides (still waiting on my rivets to arrive to show you my 3rd example!)
Rivets will replace the step where you sew down the thicker sides. If not using rivets here, I recommend a heavier thread and needle in your machine for this.
The many pockets and compartments in the wallet allow plenty of space for your essentials (phone, cards, money, passport, makeup etc.) while still folding up into a compact and easy to carry clutch.
The design of the flap is easily altered. You can have fun with different fabric placement, or why not try on-trend cork fabric.
Cork fabric is vegan and harvested from the Cork Oak Tree. It is scratch resistant, stain resistant and water resistant, much more durable than leather (and easier to sew with too!).
There are 6 weeks in the next block of classes, plenty of time to get at least one Necessary Clutch Wallet made!
Further information about the requirements for this project (& what is available to purchase in class) will be emailed to all registrants, but you can purchase the actual pattern here.
By Judith on November 1, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
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Exactly 1 year ago today I signed the contract and got the keys to my classroom in this stunning converted Victorian Linen Mill in Belfast!
After teaching in various places for more than 10 years, it was lovely to step into a bright a spacious room, which I knew would meet all our classroom needs.
The room takes 12 students per class, and we also have 5 separate cutting tables and 4 ironing stations.
The ‘Basting Bay’ gives the ladies room to spray baste their quilts, and the design wall facilitates the laying out of blocks and quilt design.
The ‘Tea/coffee’ making station is an essential feature (no mini-bar yet!) and I even have room for a themed display table and a small haberdashery and pattern shop.
I teach 6 weekly classes and monthly Saturday workshops from September to June, with a slightly different programme over the summer months.
Since I started the classes in January ’18, we have had a total of 203 weekly classes, 11 Saturday workshops, 1 50th birthday party and several charity sewing days!
Phew! What a brilliant year!
And to celebrate my first birthday in Conway Mill, we not only have chocolates in class, I’m also discounting all my online patterns by 50%. Just use the coupon code BIRTHDAY1 at the checkout (one use only).
Thank you to everyone for making this new venture an exciting and fulfilling one! I can’t wait to see what 2019 brings!
My Scandi Stocking pattern was first published in Sewing World magazine several years ago.
It combines one of my favourite fabrics, Essex Yarn Dyed Linen, with Makower’s gorgeous Scandi Christmas fabrics.
A little fussy cutting and simple applique add manageable and fun stages to this project.
Which is why I decided to run it as a Saturday workshop, on 17th November. (Full kits are available for those attending the workshop, but any leftover kits will be offered out!).
Only 1 place left on the workshop – get in touch if you would like to join us for some festive fun!
If you fancy a little hand sewing in your Christmas crafting, how about some Dresden coasters. The blades are English Paper Pieced for accuracy, and the rest is done on the machine.
Again, these made their debut in Sewing World magazine. I used more Essex Linen here, this time Black, with a few leftover Christmas 5″ charm squares.
Of course you could make these anytime of the year, making the dresden blades in non-Christmas fabrics.
This cute fellow first appeared in Pretty Patches magazine, and has been a big hit ever since!
He is a mixed textile cushion, making him super tactile and cuddly!
If you like mixing in a little tweed, wool or linen with your cottons, then you will love making this Rockin’ Robin!
I have used satin stitch applique here, but you could easily use raw edge applique or blanket stitch applique (more guidelines on machine applique here).
5 Christmas Baubles Cushions
(pattern to come)
I first made a Christmas Baubles cushion for a Brit Bee friend as part of a secret santa cushion swap several years ago!
These are great fun to make because there is no end to the ‘style’ of bauble you can have.
And you can let your creative ‘quilting’ juices flow too when it comes to the quilting.
One day I will get around to writing a pattern for these cushions – it’s on the long list!
So that’s the end of part 1!
Tune in again for part 2 and my 2nd surprise reveal!
By Judith on October 23, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Next week starts a new block of classes, the last block of 2018!!
In this final term, our attention will turn towards preparations for Christmas!
Following several requests for a Christmas Tree Skirt, I’ve curated a selection of patterns which my ladies can choose from.
I don’t have time to make all of these wonderful examples, but I did make this one!
This cracker themed tree skirt was originally designed by my lovely quilty friend Reene of Nellies Niceties.
I have never used a tree skirt around my Christmas tree before, but as soon as Reene released her free pattern, I pinned it and knew one day I would make it!
While Reene’s instructions are on how to make the top only, they are really clear and the easy piecing means it works up really quickly!
This tree skirt is a good size, but if you needed a smaller one, simply omit one or two crackers until you have your desired size.
I had fun quilting this ‘skirt’ using my quilting bar, and decided to finish the opening with buttons and hair bobbles!
This was a fun venture into my first Christmas Tree Skirt! And I’m looking forward to seeing many more tree skirts over the next few weeks!
And we’ll also have lots more tutorials and inspiration for your Christmas gift and decorating ideas!
So if you would like to join in the Christmas fun, spaces are still available across all 6 classes. Give me a shout if you would like to book a spot!
I’m so proud of all my ladies, not just those who tackle the class project, but also those who work continuously on their generous gift making, charitable fund raisers, sharing inspiring new projects and continuing to fuel and feed their creativity.
And I get to call this my day job!! #lovemyjob
We are taking a one week break, and when we return it will be the last block of classes of 2018!
Tune in again soon to find out what our new class project will be.
By Judith on September 10, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Last Saturday was my 2nd Rope Bowl Workshop.
And I’m pleased to say this lot were just as productive as my first group of ladies!!
Once again the feedback from this workshop was a resounding success!
It gives me so much pleasure seeing proudly smiling faces going home with beautiful creations tucked under arms and invigorated inspiration for many future gifts!
Well done ladies!
Interest and enquiries for this workshop continue to grow, so I will be sure to schedule more in next year!
By Judith on September 6, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Hello there!
And hello September!
September sees the start of my Autumn term of classes, and an introduction to twin needling with fusible bias tape.
And in celebration of the start of meteorological Autumn, let me show you my new table display, full of ideas, patterns and tutorials to inspire you to get creative this season!
I designed this bag for my Scrap Buster Saturday, back in early August.
I organised my scraps into 3 colourways – lots of strips of varying widths, and at least 7″ long.
The French Braid technique is so easy and in no time at all you have the panels made. Quilting them onto Bosal Flex Foam gives the bag lovely structure.
2: Denim Messenger Bag
(pattern coming soon)
Messenger bags are great for all ages! Kids at school, professionals needing a laptop bag, or how about a ‘man bag’.
The pattern for this bag was originally published in Pretty Patches magazine a few years ago. I’m hoping to get the pattern reformatted for general sale soon.
You can see I’ve had a little fun with the flap section of the bag in other versions of this pattern!
This is a roomy bag which will put a dent in some of your scraps!
The ‘quilt as you go’ technique is great fun, and the condense quilting adds strength and structure too.
4: Rope Bowls
I’m teaching how to make these stylish and versatile bowls at my Saturday workshops.
The first workshop was a hit, and a very productive day!
The next Rope Bowls workshop is this Saturday. Again it is fully booked, but I will be running this one again in the new year (keep your eyes and ears open!).
On the table you can see a Chenille mat, and the Chenille Heart Cushion in the background.
Chenilling is such a fun quilting technique, and totally beginner friendly.
I’m hosting a Chenille workshop on Saturday 13th October, where you can make either a bath mat or my heart cushion (places still available at time of writing).
So that’s part 1 of my Autumn Table roundup.
Tune in later this week for more project inspiration!
By Judith on August 26, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Hello everyone!
Just checking in to tell you about some exciting new workshops coming up this term.
Saturday 8th September: Rope Bowls II
(fully booked – waiting list available)
My first Rope Bowls workshop booked up in double quick time, so I set a 2nd date! (you can read all about the first workshop here.)
15th September: Free Motion Quilting/Sketching
(fully booked – waiting list available)
Yesterday was the first of 2 FMQ workshops.
My ladies worked hard at 6 different FMQ designs, fillers, small and large samples, and tried their hand at a little sketching too! (I bet they all slept well last night!).
This is my most requested workshop, and as it booked up in 2 days(!!) it was only fair I put on a 2nd date!
Don’t worry if you haven’t managed to get onto one of these workshops. I’ll be running this one again next year.
13th October: Chenille (Bath Mat or Cushion)
(places available)
In quilting, the term ‘Chenille’ refers to a texture achieved through sewing and cutting through several layers of fabric. When washed and dried, the raw edges of the cuts ‘fluff up’ creating a wonderfully tactile texture. This new ‘fabric’ can then be turned into a wide range of items.
In this workshop you can choose to make a fluffy bath mat, or a snuggly cushion.
17th November: Scandi Christmas Stocking
(places available)
Getting ready for Christmas and Christmas gift-making is always popular among quilters.
My Scandi Christmas Stocking incorporates a little fun applique and it is fully lined, so it will stand the test of time year after year!
I’m now stocking the latest collection of Makower Red Scandi Christmas prints in my classroom, as well as my usual stocks of Essex Yarn Dyed Linen, and I’m hoping to have kits available for the workshop.
8th December: Gingerbread Men Garland
(places available)
How cute would these decorated felt Gingerbread Men look adorning your Christmas themed fireplace!
This workshop will combined some relaxing hand sewing and embellishing with a little machine work.
A great gift for gingerbread men lovers everywhere!
So there you have it! A round-up of fun ways to spend a Saturday!
If you see anything here you fancy, just drop me an email at justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk
By Judith on August 19, 2018 1 Comment (Leave comment)
Hi there!
Yesterday was my first of 2 Rope Bowl Workshops.
This was my first time teaching rope bowls and not having a previous experience to draw on, I didn’t know how well the ladies would take to it, or how well their machines would behave!
But first time nerves quickly dissolved as my ladies jumped right in like pros and took to this new technique like ducks to water! (The machines were pretty well behaved too!)
By lunchtime the first few bowls had been made, fuelling confidence to keep up the productivity right until the end of the workshop!
And just look at our ‘end of day’ Rope Bowl haul!
Aren’t they fabulous!
I love the variety and creativity on display here!
Getting the bowls started is the trickiest part, but a little patience and a steady resolve soon gets you to the satisfying rhythm of rounds and rounds of zigzagging!
My next Rope Bowls Workshop is Saturday 8th September. It is fully booked, but if you would like your name put down on the waiting list (in case of a cancellation) just let me know.
And if you would like to purchase your own 8mm cotton rope, I get mine here.
By Judith on August 12, 2018 1 Comment (Leave comment)
Yesterday was my Zippy Pouches workshop, a day to conquer the ‘Fear of the Zip’!
My courageous ladies could choose from a simple but perfectly formed ‘Easy Peasy Pouch’ or the ‘Gracie Pouch’ which included a template and a flange feature.
And just look at what they achieved!
Easy Peasy Pouches (2 sizes)
Gracie Pouches (2 sizes)
Aren’t they beautiful!
Well done ladies! Your hard work totally paid off!
If you would like to have a go at making a zippy pouch, you can get the Easy Peasy Pouch pattern here and the Gracie Pouch pattern here.
By Judith on August 6, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Hello everyone,
It’s hard to believe that the summer is almost through, and attention is quickly turning to the new term of classes starting in September.
This term our (optional) class project will be Twin Needling with Fusible Bias (incorporating Stained Glass Windows).
As you can see above, there are a range of makes to choose from. Let’s look at them:
Mosaic Cushion (Beginner Friendly):
This 18″ cushion is a great starter project if you are new to fusible bias and twin needling.
Simple piecing creates the mosaic background, with the twin needled bias creating a dramatic (and quilted) finish!
I’ve made a feature of the zipper closure in the back of the cushion, but you could easily have an envelope or button closure here.
The digital pattern is available here (hard copies are available to purchase in class).
Mackintosh Flower Cushion (Intermediate):
This is another 18″ cushion, this time inspired by Charles Renee Mackintosh’s iconic design.
Shapes are bondawebbed onto background fabric, and the fusible bias then curved and twin needled down.
Again I’ve made a feature of the cushion back.
The digital Mackintosh Flower Cushion Pattern is available here (hard copies and full size templates are available to purchase in classs).
Applique Leaf Denim Bag (Advanced):
This project not only incorporates twin-needling (stems) and satin stitch applique (leaves), but also re-purposing textiles, zippered pocket and handbag construction.
The digital Applique Leaf Denim Bag Pattern is available here (hard copies and full size templates are available to purchase in class).
Mackintosh Rose Wallhanging (Advanced):
If you love wallhangings and aren’t afraid of something a little more challenging, you could try your hand at this Mackintosh inspired ‘Stained Glass Window’.
I’m in the progress of making up this wallhanging in a different colourway, and hope to show you the finished wallhanging soon! The finished size will be approx. 14″ x 21″ and full size templates will be available to purchase in class.
Materials:
Each pattern lists the materials you will need.
However, I will have the following available to purchase in class:
black 6mm fusible bias
4mm twin needles
pattern transfer pens
wadding
basting spray
thread
bondaweb
zips
hinged faux leather handbag handles
full size templates
So I hope you are inspired to perhaps try something different this term. You will have 7 weeks to make one of these projects, or a project of your own choosing!
And there are still a few spaces left across all the classes (more info here), so why not join us for some creative fun!
By Judith on August 5, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Hi there!
Yesterday we had a fun Scrap Busting Saturday up at the Mill.
The classroom was alive with scraps getting turned into beautiful bags, cushions and quilts! (You can read more about the projects being made here.)
Oh how satisfying it is to breath new life into unwanted or left-over fabrics!
And speaking of fabric rejuvenating!
No 2 The ’60’s Revival’ Tunic!
This is my hippy tunic (made using New Look pattern 6068), not hippy perhaps in style, but hippy because it is made from 100% unadulterated C.R.I.M.P.L.E.N.E!
Yes you heard right!
I LOVE CRIMPLENE!
I don’t even know where a love for this nasty nylon came from! I love it so much I’m thinking of starting a ‘bring back the housecoat’ revolution!
And I feel it’s only right that I tell you now, I HAVE MORE CRIMPLENE! What joy!
That’ll be a few more hippy tunics to add to collection then!
And see that mug there? That’s my new folksy mug! Isn’t it fab!
By Judith on June 30, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
It’s the end of June and classes are now finished for the summer recess. What a wonderful first 6 months in my new classroom!
Our ongoing heatwave here meant the classroom was quite warm on occasion, but the ladies were smokin’ their creativity even more so!
You may remember Part 1 of our ‘Real Women Have Curves’ roundup, where I showed you the fabulous drunkard’s path cushions my ladies had made.
Well just take a look at these!
These beautiful ‘Butterfly Garden’ quilts are stunning on every level (my poor photos not doing them justice at all!).
I love how different fabrics or placement of colour value can completely change the look of the same quilt. In this pattern, drunkard’s path units are combined with squares to make up these curvy blocks.
Aren’t they wonderful! A huge well done to my ladies for ‘going large’ with their curvy project (especially as temperatures soared inside and out!).
If you like what you see here and want to have a go at your own ‘layer cake friendly’ Butterfly Garden quilt, you can get the pattern here.
I won’t have any classes in July, but you can find out all about my summer programme of classes and workshops here.
By Judith on June 18, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
During the 5 Wednesday evenings in August I will be running my ‘Machine Sewing for Beginners’ Course.
I have run this course many times in the past, and it has always proven popular. The course is designed for folks who want to learn how to use a sewing machine, or refresh their machine sewing skills from long ago!
Here’s a run down of the topics we cover:
Week 1:
threading the machine
filling a bobbin
understanding the various buttons, dials & stitches
practising the different stitches
Week 2:
understanding tension & troubleshooting
how to change needles and feet
understanding uses of different feet
sewing control skills
Week 3:
understanding fabric (warp, weft, bias)
measuring & cutting fabric
seams (1/4”; 3/8”; 5/8”, overlocking; french)
Weeks 4-5:
Project: Single skein cushion cover with a zippered back
Extra Info:
Cost: £45 (includes a non-refundable deposit of £20)
Course in Conway Mill (2nd Floor), Conway Street, Belfast, 6.30pm-8.30pm
Disabled Parking and Access available
Places are limited so book early
Limited number of machines available to hire (pre-booking required)
Full list of materials/requirements emailed in July
So if you fancy learning a new skill, or brushing up on an old one, just drop me an email to justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk. Classes are fun and relaxed!
By Judith on June 7, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Hello there!
How is everyone doing? We are already half way through the last block of classes before summer recess!
I didn’t set a class project this block. I figured I’d thrown a lot at my poor unsuspecting victims students! So instead we’ve been focusing on getting UFOs ticked off the list.
You may remember that last term I introduced my ladies to the no-pin method of sewing drunkard’s path curves.
And just look at what my curvy ladies have produced!
Curves completely conquered! BOOM!
Aren’t they fabulous! Well done ladies, and also to those still finishing off their curvy cushions! You are all amazing!
And before the end of this block of classes, I will have more pics of my other group of curvy ladies who are making my Butterfly Garden Quilt. You won’t want to miss it!
By Judith on May 30, 2018 0 Comments (Leave comment)
Next up on my series of Summer Workshop posts are my Easy Peasy Pouches!
It’s funny how often I come across folks with an inherent fear of zippers!
I remember my own fear of them once upon a time. But oh, the wonderful freedom I experienced once I faced my fear, able to make and enjoy many zippered projects and gifts.
I want to enable others to experience this freedom and fun, and to embrace their zipper foot once and for all!
For the complete ‘Zipper Novice’ I have designed the Easy Peasy Pouch, simple construction without compromising on the little details that matter, like pretty zipper tabs and a boxed corner base.
And for those feeling a little more adventurous, you could try The Gracie Pouch.
These have the same simple construction as the Easy Peasy Pouch, just with a few added features and a little more quilting.
When I need a handmade gift idea, zippy pouches are my go to project!
Bookings for this workshop are now open! All workshops are £30 (includes a non-refundable £15 deposit). Just drop me an email to justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk.
How is your week going? We are (still) basking in the most gorgeous sunny weather here, leaving us with stunning, glorious sunsets!
This week in my classes I am presenting my summer Saturday Workshops. The 4 Saturdays in August will all be workshops, and I will be posting about them here, starting with ……
If you’ve been sewing for any length of time, you may have a huge healthy stock of scraps, leftovers from previous quilting projects. These pieces might just be too sizeable, pretty or meaningful to throw away, leftover binding or jelly roll strips, or perhaps frugality gets the better of you!
Either way, there are many, many ways to put those ever growing scraps to good use!
Here are just a few examples of what you can make on Scrap Buster Saturday.
This is another example of grouping scraps into colourways. The French Braid piecing technique is super easy, and you don’t even need the pieces to be of equal width.
I’ve quilted the bag exterior onto bosal (flex foam) which gives it lovely texture and structure without losing softness.
(Hinged Faux Leather Handles available at the workshop)
My technique for making strip pieced blocks doesn’t involve a foundation layer.
I added a little ‘organisation’ to lots of random strips by making the central strip in each block white. The white strips are of uniform width, but that’s were the uniformity ends! All other strips are random widths and lengths. I even used ‘ugly’ fabrics I still had, but I totally love the finished quilt! That’s the magic of using scraps.
Autumn Rail Fence Quilt(block tutorial available here)
The simple sewing together of strips means you can easily make up this quilt top in a day.
Once again, I dove into my scrap drawers for specific colours – golds, oranges, pinks and teals, all of different widths and lengths. Some donated yardage of a brown stripe gives flow and order to the scraps.
But equally, this quilt would look fabulous made in random coloured scraps with a uniform ‘fence’ fabric.
‘Quilt As You Go’ Handbag: (pattern available here)
Here’s another roomy handbag idea for all those colourful scraps!
This ‘quilt as you go’ method involves the quilting of each individual piece of fabric onto a larger piece of wadding. There are no raw edges, and the condense quilting gives the bag lots of structure.
The pattern also includes this secure recessed zipper closure.
‘Birch’ Quilt (in progress):
I took inspiration from this quilt and decided to make a grey and low volume version (given that I have an overflowing drawer of LV scraps!).
I plan on using up my stash of Kona Greys to make this into a bigger ‘man’ quilt. Somehow, I think it will take me a lot longer to use up my LV scraps!
So there you have it! A little inspiration on how to use your scraps, and a date for your diary on how to have a day of fun turning them into something wonderful!
All Saturday workshops are £30, including a non-refundable deposit of £15 to register. Just drop me an email to justjudedesigns@hotmail.co.uk to book a place.
