What have I been up to in the sewing room?

21 comments
Ayumi of Pink Penguin (such a great blog) asked me to be part of a little group making coasters for Japanese designer and author Suzuko Koseki. You can read about Ayumi's idea in this post on her blog. And read more about Suzuko in this post. Many of you might know Suzuko from this book.
Each of us took a letter from Suzuko's first and last name and made a 4 1/2" coaster with that letter in the coaster, also putting a bit of fabric from Suzuko's designs into the coaster. My letter was S. I put an S in the door of my little house. The strawberry window shade and the roof are fabric from Suzuko's lines. I used binding from some fabric Lori Holt gave me in my snowman box.
Oops this pic got put sideways. Taking pictures from my iPhone and getting them on the blog is not always easy. Anyway, I used this linen blend from the new Ruby Star Rising by Melody Miller. I forgot to take a finish photo. These pics were obviously taken while I was binding the little coaster. Oh, I also put in a little tag showing that I made the coaster. I hope Suzuko loves what everyone has made.
I'm making myself a quilt in 2011 that is just for me. I started it and I'm going to work at it a bit at a time so I plan on finishing it by the end of the year. It will be a flag quilt showing my heritage. I'm 50% Slovak, 25% English and 25% Danish and of course, 100% USA. So my quilt will have 4 flag designs when I'm finished. I got the idea from Amy. This is as far as I've gotten with the UK flag. Check out Amy's quilt. I love it.
Shelbie helped me make my own ironing/pressing spray over the holidays. I even made my own label. I used a bottle from the dollar store. Here is the recipe and idea at Tinkerfrog. I did notice a little corn starch powder at the bottom of my bottle. Mr. Hive suggested next time we heat it (just bring it to a boil) to make sure the starch is all dissolved. So far though, I love how it works. I just shake the bottle before I use it for now. I used geranium oil I ordered at some Internet site. Essential oils are sold lots of places. It smells really great.

So I've been doing several things. I realize it has been a while since I've actually shown some sewing!

-nanette
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21 comments

circle r motel said...

Very impressive especially the pressing spray. I might need to make some of that though I can't make a label. I'm working on a New York Beauty quilt. I have three squares done. I hope to go on a quilting retreat in February for three days - just two hours from here - and I can just work on my own projects. Little dresses!!

Glenna @ Hollyhock Quilts said...

I love your little coaster! Too cute! She'll be thrilled!!

Barb said...

I love your coaster! I'm new to Suzuko Koseki's work, but I'm already smitten. I'm looking forward to seeing your flag quilt progress!

Annette said...

Such a fun little coaster and a sweet idea. I'm going to give the starch spray a try. Thanks for the great lead.

PamKittyMorning said...

Love the coaster, love the quilt-to-be and what a good idea about the spray starch! I just finished putting borders on my flag quilt. Its like we're all on the same page.

Thimbleanna said...

You have been a busy girl! I can't wait to see your flag quilt -- thanks for the link to your inspiration quilt -- I love it!

Unknown said...

Love the coaster, but I am really excited about seeing the quilt. I purchased the pattern as my daughter loves everything British and of course the Union Jack flag was one that she would love!! Yours will be quite interesting.

SueWis said...

Your coaster is just beyond cute! I love doing little projects like this. Such nice details!

jen duncan said...

Really nice projects Nanette. I think I should go out to the studio and do something creative now!

Linda said...

Your coasters are too cute. Thanks for the idea on the spray starch.

Linda Ruthie said...

Thank you so much for the link to the recipe for spray starch. This is something I use every time I finish an apron because aprons should be pressed and crisp, right?
Your coaster is adorable. So much detail in such a small space!

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

Nanette, you are just too smart! I am so impressed with how you made something as simple as a coaster into a work of art. Just delightful! Loving the flag idea for a quilt, and your own "line" of pressing spray. Wow. You are one busy lady! Great work on all.

Jane's Fabrics and Quilts said...

I just love Ayumi! She is sooo cute and very talented. I saw her request and I love the coaster you made. I know she will love them. What a fun thing to make!!
A quilt for you, it is about time!! and how about that darling label. You never cease to amaze me!!

em's scrapbag said...

Your little coaster is adorable. Can't wait to see your flag quilt. And thanks for the spray idea and recipe.

pratima said...

I adore every tiny detail of your suzuko house.. A fantastic idea for a quilt of your own. The fabrics are very pretty! I'm sure your pressing spray smells divine! cute idea with the label :)

West Michigan Quilter said...

Your coaster is darling. Love those fabrics. About that starch, is it as good as that stuff they sell in the quilt stores? I've never tried it but they tell me it takes all the wrinkles out. I'm going to try your recipe. Thanks for sharing.

amy smart said...

THe Union Jacks look fantastic! I'm so excited to see the progress of you quilt, Nanette. I need to get working on one to keep for myself!

debbie m said...

Your little coaster is so cute! And it's great that you are making a quilt for you this year. I really like your start, and will be looking forward to posts along the way to finished.
In using spray starch of any kind always remember...If it's not a project that is going to be finished and washed soon starch draws insects, such as silverfish. This can be the cause of "foxing" (little orangish spots/stains) on stored linens. It also prevents inks, paints, iron-on adhesives and such from bonding to the fabrics. It's very dissapointing when we work so hard on a project and it starts to come apart of fade because of a simple step such as using starch. Just a reminder.

Cheryl said...

Very sweet coaster and I am so excited about the spray. Can't wait to give that a try. Your label on it is so sweet.

verykerryberry said...

Just seen your coaster on Flickr- it is perfect! I love your fabric choices, especially the window and door and the back fabric is the fabric of the moment! Lovely x

ayumills said...

Love your coaster! I want to make one like that for myself!

Thank you for the link to the starch spray! I was just talking about the use of starch with my online friend yesterday! This is perfect! Love how you have your own label for your spray too!