Happy Trees

I saw the inspiration for this pillow on Pinterest months back and my finished pillow is quite similar to the one pinned. When I went back to the original pin, i realized it linked to etsy. Not realizing this was an original design, I want to credit the designer (who sells some lovely bags in her shop).

For the pillow base, I used linen. I lined the front panel with some fusible fleece to keep the surface smooth, because the existing pillow I'm covering is tufted. I especially was glad that everything I needed for the project was on-hand...no need to run out and break my streak of productivity. For the back panel I used a simple envelope closure and even used the linen selvedge as-is for the visible edge.

This pillow was a nice, quick project. I have come to realize that small projects that allow me to play with color and pattern are the ones I need to keep my sewing mojo. For awhile I immersed myself in garment sewing and nothing else and have little to show for it. The tedious fitting and finishing of garment sewing brought my motivation down a bit. I still have plenty of clothing on the to-sew list, but will be sure to pepper in some happy, colorful instant gratification projects, too.

Pretty as a Picture Dress

Little Girl #2 is on the way, so I am motivated to do some baby sewing.

This is from Anna Maria Horner's Handmade Beginnings book. The skirt is pieced to highlight a panel of special fabric, but I went with the paisley lawn all over. Since the lawn is so lightweight, I lined the skirt in addition to just the bodice which the pattern calls for.

The size is 0-3 months, so the dress is tiny and cute. Let's hope for a relatively hot September so little one can wear it.