Follow Incolororder, filter it, and define how you want to receive the news (via Email, RSS, Telegram, WhatsApp etc.) https://follow.it/incolororder Sat, 28 Jan 2023 23:31:58 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJgFfhDu1vaZdKEpFgimKzx Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- This week's fabric pull is all lawn fabrics! I thought this would be a great start for a lawn quilt.

- In love with this Fragments quilt by my friend Deedrie LaFollette! She also shared a breakdown of her time and costs for making this quilt which is really interesting.

- These valentine's lined drawstring bag kits from Bunbury Fabrics are so cute!

- Just downloaded the Jesse Tee pattern by True Bias. If you sign up for their newsletter, you'll get a coupon code to get this pattern for free! So sweet.


- I finally made the almond cookies from this book*. I have been wanting to make them for a while and they didn't not disappoint. Great flavor and they're crispy on the edges but still soft and chewy in the middle!

- Another beautiful fabric collection by my friend Anna Graham is on the way, Riverbend ships in August!

- I'm not sure how practical it is, but this brush holder* sure is adorable!

- I was so happy to get my hands on these really inexpensive prints from ikea by Helen Dardik this week. I have loved her work for years, but she primarily sells originals (which I'd love to buy one day when it's in the budget!), so I haven't had a chance to buy any of work artwork until now.

- We made these battered banana pancakes last night and they were so delicious and fun! They're really snackable, each pancake has a single banana slice in it!


- Dusty cat loves to snuggle up in a quilt. :)

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJgFfhDu1vaZdKEpFgimKzx https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJt8eUDWpy9ghKeetMRuZbW
Happy Wednesday! Today I wanted to look back on my 2022 garden. I really like having a record I can reference to remind myself what worked and also spend some time appreciating my garden in the middle of winter. It's a nice time to think about flowers and fresh veg!


I'm happy to report that 2022 was my best year in the garden yet! It was actually a tough weather season, but our unique growing conditions helped mitigate some of that. It was hot and very dry here in CT last summer. We're along the border of growing zones 6b/7a. We grow a mix of vegetables and cut flowers, along with a yard full of landscaping.


Our vegetables are all grown in containers on one section of our driveway. I think this is the third season we've done our driveway garden. It's worked great for us. It makes it really easy to care for, and we can easily add to it. We made the cedar boxes a few seasons ago, and have a variety of pots, grow bags, and galvanized tubs to grow in too. This year we added some plastic crates (lined with landscape fabric). The peppers absolutely loved these, but the dahlias weren't quite as crazy about them. I currently have some tulips in two crates, but will probably do mostly peppers and tomatoes in the crates next year.


A new thing we grew in 2022 was onions! Specifically Walla Walla onions. They were a great success. It was so nice to be able to run out for an onion when we needed them. We grew them in two big grow bags. One thing we're going to do differently next year is to replace some of the soil in the bags to make it a little less dense. I went a little too compost heavy last year, and since they don't get a ton of sun they stayed a little wetter than I think they'd prefer.


Other than onions the two main veg we grew was peppers and tomatoes. This season was my first time trying to start peppers from seed. I only started a couple varieties, but it was totally worth it. Those peppers were way ahead of the nursery plants I bought. I'm planning to start all of our peppers from seed in 2023. In 2022 we grew anaheim, banana, serrano, sriracha, lunchbox snacking, sugar rush peach, and aji peppers.


I was so happy with our tomato crop this year! We grew all cherry tomatoes, which is our favorite. This was my first year starting tomatoes from seed and just like the peppers it was very worth the extra effort. My plants were nearly 2 feet tall when I put them in the ground, and we harvested our first tomatoes on July 1st! We grew sungold, black cherry, sunrise bumble bee, sun sugar, indigo cherry drops, and a CSA tomato I saved seeds from. Sungold and Sun Sugar were our very favorites and the only two we'll continue to grow of the bunch.


At the end of the season, I planted out a perennial garden in our front yard. Previously I've grow dahlias, zinnias, and cosmos here, but they have struggled. This spot gets full sun and most of the water/nutrients get used up by the huge oak tree. So I focused on perennials that don't need a ton of water and love sun: echinacea, rudbeckia, coreopsis, and feverfew. I also planted some allium bulbs here too. Hoping this becomes a pollinator haven!


On the over side of our front yard I planted a big patch of different marigolds. I'll be doing that again this year, I just love them. These giant orange ones were new for me this year!


Similar to year's past, the bulk of my flower gardening efforts were dedicated to growing dahlias! I'm as obsessed as ever with this flower. They're just so enjoyable to grow. The magic has not faded at all! Lucky me, my patch of dahlias did incredibly well this year and I had flowers in from June until the end of October. Starting plants from cuttings not only gave me earlier blooms but it also allowed me to have more plants!


This year I had great luck with my dahlia seedlings. I had around 20 plants that I started from dahlia seeds. All seeds that I collected from my plants last year. It was so much fun to see each new plant bloom. I ended up saving 4 or 5 seedling tuber clumps to grow out next year. This purple one above is one of my favorites.


This is another dahlia seedling that bloomed right at the end of the season. I just love the yellow orange color. Another keeper for me!


My favorite new variety that I grew this year is Clearview Peachy. It had been on my wishlist for a while and I was so happy to finally get to grow it! Thankfully it lived up to my expectations. Can't wait to grow it again next year.


Another new favorite was Caitlin's Joy.


Jowey Winnie still has my heart. This was one of the first dahlia varieties I bought and I still love it.


Crichton Honey may have moved into the top spot as my favorite dahlia variety this year. It is so changeable! Sometimes it's mostly yellow, sometimes mostly coral, and other times it's this gorgeous sunset-like mix.

I could share a million more photos, but I think that's plenty for one post. I love to garden and I can't wait to grow more things in 2023.

Happy Gardening!]]> Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJt8eUDWpy9ghKeetMRuZbW https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJItWAon8f1fOifqJurszLU
Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- This week's fabric pull is pretty small and simple. I started with the light background print by Sarah Watson*, and I pulled fabrics around it!

- Love the moody colors in this Sunset Town Quilt by Jolene Klassen.

- This animal crossing quilt by Batgirl Quilts is so much fun!

- How dreamy is this drawing nook in Jen Hewett's studio?

- I want to give a shout out to @jasikaistrycurious on Instagram this week. She makes beautiful garments and her most recent post sharing her speech accepting a Human Rights Campaign Visibility award shouldn't be missed.


- I love flowering houseplants but we don't get quite enough sun in our house for them to flourish. So I built this lego set* instead! Now I can enjoy orchid "blossoms" all year!

- Speaking of plants, I ordered our seeds this week!! Excited to try growing this cherry tomato variety, we're pretty sure we got some of these in our CSA last year.

- I tried making chia pudding for this first time this week, and I'm really enjoying it as a snack in the afternoon. I'm using this basic recipe and warming up some frozen strawberries to mix in when I eat it.

- I've been really trying to stay on top of moisturizing my skin this winter. I hate that feeling when my skin gets too dry! This duo* has been working great, I try to use one every morning.


- Dusty kitty sunbathing. :)

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 20 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJItWAon8f1fOifqJurszLU https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKHRcY8gM2ofq7VFky8BpXO
Happy Wednesday! It's time to share my Crafty Goals for 2023. If you missed my year end wrap up you can find it here: 2022 Yearly Review. My goals this year are pretty similar to last year's. I am hoping to work more consistently on a few projects, so I've given myself a challenge to work on them every month. I figure even if it's just for a few hours a month, it's better than nothing.

I have one really big sewing goal for 2023, and it's to finally finish my double wedding ring quilt! I started it in either 2014 or 2015 (not 100% sure), and I feel like this is the year I need to buckle down and get it done. I've already made that a little easier on myself by cutting out a row. This leaves me with only 6 more arcs to piece and then I can move on to building blocks! I'm hopeful that I can meet this goal. I definitely need to make a practice mini quilt though, my curves are very rusty!

I'm still going to track my yardage for fabric and yarn this year, but I've going to give this goal a little less priority. I have my shopping really under control at this point and I've decreased my stash for 7 years in a row. I want to give myself to freedom to add to my stash a bit more this year, if I feel like it. We'll see what happens here!


Sewing & Quilting Goals:
- Use up more yardage than I bring in. I'll track my yardage to help me stay on target.
- Finish last quilt top from my HST book.
- Finish my double wedding ring quilt.
- Work on my scrappy spiderweb quilt or liberty churn dash quilt each month.
- Start another vintage sheet quilt.
- Make 1 small project (pincushions, zipper pouches, softies, etc.) per month.


Knitting/Crochet Goals:
- Use up more yardage than I bring in. I'll track my yardage to help me stay on target.
- Knit a little every month.
- Crochet a softie.
- Finish current mitten project.
- Finish/frog a shawl project.
- Finish at least one pair of machine knit socks.

Did you make any crafty goals for yourself this year? I don't make new year's resolutions in other parts of my life, but I personally like the structure of having some crafting goals to work towards.

Happy Making!]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKHRcY8gM2ofq7VFky8BpXO https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQIPaTlyALB4HK7VFky8BpXO
Happy Friday! It's time to bring back Friday Favorites posts! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- One thing I want to add to these posts is fabric stacks. I'm going to try to curate a stack of fabrics from my stash (hopefully every week!) and share it here. The selfish goal in this is to inspire myself to come up with interesting combinations that could then lead to pulls for new projects. This first stack is a gimmie, it's been sitting on my desk for a while. It's primarily Sweet as Honey by Bonnie Christine (apologies this collection is quite old at this point) with some other prints mixed in.

- I checked this book* out from the library last week and immediately made the Strawberry Sour Cream Pound Cake. It was really tasty, and there are a bunch of other recipes I've got bookmarked to try!

- A favorite recent lunch is these egg rolls by Nadiya Hussain. I make mine without the tomato, but add a little shredded cheese. So quick and delicious.

- I finished reading the Wheel of Time series* this week!! I had good intentions to finish it before the end of the year, but then I decided I didn't want to rush through the final book. It was so good, I can't wait to read the series again. All said and done the 15 books have a total of 4.4 million words. WHOA.

- I thrifted this vintage sheet over the weekend that I've never seen before. I am so in love with the colors, I think I want to build a whole quilt around it!

- Loved watching this video from Food52: Rare & Magical, Explore Dansk Homewares: Into The Archive. I didn't realize they bought Dansk!

- Very excited that the Magic Puzzle Company* has a new series of puzzles available for preorder! If you've never tried one of their puzzles, they're really fun.

- It's sumo citrus season!! I found some at my local grocery store this week, which was exciting. If you've never had one before, they're actually a large mandarin. They are super sweet and in my opinion have a bit of a floral flavor. Fair warning, they can be pricey!


- This week we celebrated Dusty's gotcha day! I can't believe she's already been with us for a year. She's the best.

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 13 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQIPaTlyALB4HK7VFky8BpXO https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJB5M-y272j36gHTd9OkkKt
Happy New Year! Is it already too late to say that? I hope your year is off to a good start so far. I took a bit of an unplanned break the last month, but I'm back today to wrap up 2022. Let's look at some creative highlights from the year and how I did on my crafty goals!

First up, my yardage tracking. This was my seventh year tracking my yardage! I can't believe I've been doing that for this long. As usual I tracked both my fabric and yarn yardage. (See how I do that in this post.) My goals in this area are the same each year: to use up more materials than I bring in. I'm happy to say I acheived this in both fabric and yarn this year!

For fabric, I used up almost 75 yards and bought only 20 yards worth of fabric. Not too shabby! I'm not using up (or giving away/destashing) as much fabric each year as I did when I first started tracking, but I'm also bringing in about a tenth of the fabric I was.

2022 was the fourth year in a row that I haven't bought any yarn. As I (hopefully) explore crochet more this coming year that streak will probably come to an end, but I'm really happy about this. It has been so nice to just use up my stash and enjoy the beautiful yarns I already have.

2022 Fabric Stash Totals
Used up: 74.75 yards
Brought in: 20 yards
Net: -54.75 yards

2022 Yarn Stash Totals
Used up: 3494 yards
Brought in: 0 yards
Net: -3494 yards

Time to look at some of my favorite projects from the year!

My favorite quilt finish: Vintage Bear Paw Quilt


My favorite lined drawstring bag finish: Ruler Paper Drawstring Bag


My favorite bag finish: Michael's Waxed Canvas Travel Bag


My favorite home decor finish: Abstract Fabric Artwork


My favorite yarn craft finish: Crochet Scrap Yarn Basket


My favorite woodworking finish: Dusty's Hidden Litter Box Cabinet


One of my (unspoken) goals for last year was to recommit to blogging on a regular schedule. With the exception of December, I exceeded my own expectations in terms of this goal. In 2021, I published 36 blog posts. In 2022, I published 103 blog posts! To be honest, I think I may have overextended myself a bit, so I am aiming for a little less this year, but it was nice to be back here so regularly.


I shared 16 informational or tutorial posts in 2022:
- New and Improved Stash Tracking Worksheet (with Formulas!)
- DIY Abstract Fabric Artwork
- Ideas for Storing and Organizing Sewing Notions
- Tips for Dyeing Raw Eggs
- Fabric Folding Video Tutorial
- Indigo Courthouse Steps Quilt Tutorial
- Easy DIY Row Markers for Quilting
- Tips for Keeping Your Sewing Room Clean
- DIY Budget Wooden Tomato Trellis
- Tips for Dusting and Displaying Vintage Dishes
- Packing Tips for a Sewing Retreat or Workshop
- The Cheap Secret to Preventing Fabric Bleeding in Quilts
- Making Templates for the Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
- Patchwork Star Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial
- Tips for Tidy Drawstring Casing Openings
- Tips for Working with Paracord

In the second half of the year I went on a pattern writing spree! I managed to release six new patterns in 2022:

Candyweb Quilt Block Pattern


Expanse Quilt Pattern


Indigo Steps Quilt Pattern


Keep Turning Quilt Pattern


Floral Chain Quilt Pattern


Vintage Bear Paw Quilt Pattern


Now a quick look back at my 2022 Crafty Goals. I think I did okay this year. Better than last year at least!

Sewing & Quilting Goals:

Use up more yardage than I bring in. I'll track my yardage each month to help me stay on target.
I decreased my fabric stash by 54.75 yards this year!

Complete two long-term quilt projects (all green quilt, double wedding ring, vintage sheet bear paw, Night Sky, HST book quilt tops, etc.).
I completed three long-term quilt projects: Floral Chain Quilt (all green quilt), Vintage Bear Paw Quilt, and one lingering HST book quilt top.

Sew a quilt primarily from scraps.
I started a quilt primarily from scraps, my Candyweb blocks.

Make a few more pieces of fabric/patchwork artwork.
I made one, it hangs above our mantle!

Sew four handmade garments.
I only made one garment this year, a housecoat for Michael. He loves it.

Knitting Goals:

Use up more yardage than I bring in. I'll track my yardage each month to help me stay on target.
I decreased my yarn stash by 3494 yards this year!

Complete four weaving projects.
I only completed one weaving project this year.

Finish current mitten project.
I worked on it, but did not finish it.

Finish/frog a shawl project.
Again, I worked on my Briochealicious shawl project but did not finish or frog it.

Finish at least one pair of machine knit socks.
Didn't touch this project.


And that's it! I'll be back soon to share my 2022 garden wrap up post plus my 2023 crafty goals!

Have Great Day!]]> Wed, 11 Jan 2023 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJB5M-y272j36gHTd9OkkKt https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLWtd24DuxkK-9WSSr4-0sP
Welcome to the fourth week of the Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! Today I'm sharing tips for working with paracord!

I'll be updating the Sew Along Page each week with all the posts so that you can easily catch up or reference these posts after the sew along ends!

I hope you'll sew along with us! Sew from the tutorial or the patterns:
Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial
Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern

Before we dive into today's post, let's quickly chat about our to-do for week 4 of the sew along!

This week's focus is on final touches! Tackle those drawstring casings, make fabric ties or prep twill/paracord ties. Pull ties through the bags and finish them off with a simple knot or some fun beads! A few posts you might find helpful when tackling this:

- Marking the drawstring casings can be time consuming, especially if you're making a lot of bags. I have a video tutorial for an alternative marking technique that is my go-to method. Find it here: Alternative Method for Marking the Drawstring Casing

- If you're like me and you don't have a free-arm on your sewing machine, I have a video tutorial for how to sew the drawstring casings. Find it here: How to Sew a Drawstring Casing Without a Free-Arm Sewing Machine

- Using beads and want to take them to the next level? I have a tutorial all about how to customize unfinished wooden beads. Find it here: How to Customize Wooden Beads with Paint, Stain, and Dye

- You've made your bags and now you're ready to gift them. How about use some reusable gift tags too! I share five different ideas for tagging your bags in this post: Reusable Gift Tag Ideas for Drawstring Bags

- Still need some supplies to finish up your bags? I've got you covered! You can find a variety of cotton twill tape, paracord and wooden beads in my online shop. Find them all here: Shop cotton twill tape, paracord and wooden beads

- Finally, circling back to my post on tips for wrapping gifts in drawstring bags! Find it here: Tips For Using Drawstring Bags to Wrap Gifts

What is Paracord?

Paracord, or Parachute cord, is a lightweight rope made of nylon. It's called this because it was originally used on parachutes. Today it's primarily used as a general utility cord. Paracord has an inner cord of several strands (the number depends on the type/strength) that are sheathed in more nylon. It's a great material to use for drawstring bag ties! It's relatively easy to find, comes in lots of different colors and is really durable. The most common size of paracord is 550, which is the size I recommend using for drawstring bags.


550 Paracord is a Type III cord with a tensile strength of 550 pounds, it's 4mm in diameter and has 7 inner strands. You can see in the above photo the inner strands are typically a translucent white color, while the outer sheath can be lots of different colors.

Where to Buy Paracord

You can find paracord in a limited number of colors at most craft stores. It's often near the bead aisles. I've also found it at big box stores like Walmart too. Or, you can order it online! There are lots of different online shops that specialize in ropes and cords. I carry two colors in my online shop, cream and white, which you can find here. When I want other colors, I usually shop at Bored Paracord* on Etsy.

If you order smaller amounts or buy it in person, it typically comes as a hank.


If you buy larger amounts it may come rolled on a spool.

How to Cut and Finish Paracord

One of the most important things to be aware of when working with paracord, is that after it's cut, the ends need to be finished in order to prevent unraveling. This is typically done by melting the ends. If you're cutting a piece off of a larger hank or spool, you'll need to finish both ends of your cut, preferably as soon as you cut it. This helps keep any of your cord from going to waste! These are the materials you'll need to finish your paracord:

Sharp scissors: Use all-purpose or craft scissors for this, not your good fabric scissors!

A Tea Light Candle: I've tried using a candle in a glass jar, but have found that the flame moves too much. Tea-lights are ideal for this task. A lot of tutorials use a lighter, but I feel more secure using a candle.

Matches or Lighter: Something to light your candle with.

Non-flamable container: I like to set my candle inside of this thrifted metal loaf pan, but any non-flamable container or surface will work. A cookie sheet, a stone cutting board, a spare piece of tile, etc.


Before we proceed, a disclaimer: Please be careful and exercise caution when working around an open flame. Fabric and paracord are flammable, so do this at your own risk. I recommend doing this in a well-ventilated area. Open a window and/or turn on an exhaust fan.

1. Cut your paracord to the desired length. If some of the white inner strands have gotten long while handling, feel free to trim them.


2. Hold the cut end of the paracord approximately 1/4" away from the candle flame. The end of the paracord will slowly melt. Once melted, move away from the candle and let sit to harden for a minute or two, letting the end hang over the edge of your work surface. This will prevent it from sticking to your surface.


See above two ends of paracord that have melted and cooled. The difference between the two is how close I let the end get to the flame of the candle. On the left is what we're aiming for. It's completely clean and clear, I kept the end an appropriate distance from the flame. On the right is what happens when the end gets too close or touches the candle flame. It's discolored, which is not what we want!

Alternative Finishing Method
If you don't feel comfortable melting the ends of your paracord to finish them, there is another way! Trim the inner strands so that they are flush with the cut edge of the sheath. Seal together by placing a dot of hot glue over the end. Let dry.

Using Paracord for Drawstrings

I love to use paracord for drawstrings. It comes in so many fun colors (even some with a slight pattern), and it's super fast! Using it for drawstrings is simple.

1. Cut two lengths of paracord to the required drawstring length. (You may want to add a little extra if you plan to use beads.)

2. Finish paracord ends.

3. Pierce paracord with a large safety pin and thread through the drawstring casings.

4. Knot each drawstring end, adding beads if desired.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! I can't wait to see the bags you make! Please share them with me on instagram @jenib320 + #lineddrawstringbag or via email (jenib320 @ gmail.com).

Happy Sewing!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLWtd24DuxkK-9WSSr4-0sP https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKjQvnOh1i0qtKEpFgimKzx Welcome to the third week of the Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! Today I'm sharing tips for tidy drawstring casing openings!

I'll be updating the Sew Along Page each week with all the posts so that you can easily catch up or reference these posts after the sew along ends!

I hope you'll sew along with us! Sew from the tutorial or the patterns:
Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial
Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern

Before we dive into today's post, let's quickly chat about our to-do for week 3 of the sew along!

This week's task is sewing! Sew your bags through step 10. If you're making a lot of bags and you're short on time, I highly recommend making them assembly line style. This isn't quite as fun, but it's definitely more efficient! A few posts you might find helpful when tackling this:

- Last year I recorded a video tutorial that covers making the bags from start to finish. It's a bit long, but it's meant to be comprehensive! Find it here: Lined Drawstring Bag Video Tutorial

- If you just need a little extra guidance when it comes to the gussets, I have a video for that too! Find it here: How to Put a Gusset on a Bag Video Tutorial


Today I'm sharing two techniques for neater drawstring casing openings. There are raw edges at the openings and those can sometimes pop out and show in the final bag. Personally, this doesn't bother me but it may bother you! I've had a number of questions about this over the years, so I came up with a few ideas for tidying up this part of the bag.

In my sample bag I'm showing two ways to tackle this issue, but feel free to do just one or the other. Bonus points if you decide to do both!

Using a Serger or Zig-Zag Stitch to Finish Edges

For this technique, we're going to finish the edges that will be exposed in the drawstring casing. You can do this with either a serger, or by using a zig-zag stitch on a standard sewing machine.


On the Exterior Accent pieces, zig-zag stitch to finish the two short sides.


On the Interior pieces, zig-zag stitch to finishing the two long sides.

No need to do anything to the Exterior Main pieces.


This will help keep those raw edges from fraying in the final bag. Now you can complete your bag according to the free tutorial or lined drawstring bag pattern. When sewing, be sure to sew with a large enough seam to hide the zig-zag stitching (or serging) in the seams. Or try out the next technique too!

Using Adhesive to Secure Exterior Accent Seams

For this technique, we're going to use an adhesive to secure the seams of the drawstring casing in place. We'll do this after step 5 in the pattern or tutorial.

I recommend leaving the Interior end (where the turning opening will be), unsewn for now to make access to these seams easier.

Carefully ease your partially completed bag around your ironing board. (A sleeve ironing board like this one* is super handy for this.)

Press the side seams of the Exterior Accent open.

I also recommend pressing a few inches of the Interior side seams open too.

Use a small bit of adhesive to secure the opened seams in place, just where the casing opening is. I tried out two options and they both worked well. If you have a roll of 1/4" Steam-a-Seam 2* handy, this was the quickiest/cleanest open. Cut a small strip and sandwich it under each side of the seam. Press when an iron to adhere.


I also tried doing this with a very small amount of glue (I love these elmer's glue pens*), pressing it with the iron to set it. It worked well! I used a toothpick to be able to control how much I applied.


If you left the Interior end of your bag open, go back and sew across it, leaving an opening for turning.

Now you can complete your bag according to the free tutorial or lined drawstring bag pattern.


That's it! I used these two techniques together for this bag and the finished casings are so neat and tidy!

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! I can't wait to see the bags you make! Please share them with me on instagram @jenib320 + #lineddrawstringbag or via email (jenib320 @ gmail.com).

Happy Sewing!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKjQvnOh1i0qtKEpFgimKzx https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQI8IX1NgCjS6Apx5_w21kha
Welcome to the second week of the Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! Today I'm sharing a tutorial for a patchwork star bag!

I'll be updating the Sew Along Page each week with all the posts so that you can easily catch up or reference these posts after the sew along ends!

I hope you'll sew along with us! Sew from the tutorial or the patterns:
Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial
Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern


Before we dive into today's post, let's quickly chat about our to-do for week 2 of the sew along!

This week's task is cutting! Finalize those fabric choices and cut out all the pieces for your bags. A few posts you might find helpful when tackling this:

- If you missed last week's post about make templates, be sure to check that out! They're great if you don't want to rotary cut, or just want to speed up your cutting process. Find it here: Making Templates for the Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern

- You may be interested in adding a little something extra to your bags, like pom-pom trim or ribbon. I have a post all about embellishing your bags with these. Find it here: How to Use Trim or Ribbon to Embellish Your Drawstring Bags

- If you'd like to add an exterior pocket to your bag, I've got a tutorial for that too! Find it here: Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial: Adding an Exterior Pocket

- A related post to today's is my present block tutorial from last year's sew along. I think it's super cute! Another option if you want to add a patchwork element to your bags. Find it here: Present Quilt Block Drawstring Bag Tutorial


Back to the star of the show (haha), a patchwork star bag! I made a bag with a star block on it a few years ago when I was in the process of making the expansion pattern, and I thought it would be perfect as a holiday bag.


Sewing Level: Beginner Friendly
Finished size: Approx. 10" tall, 7" wide, 3" deep

Patchwork Star Lined Drawstring Bag Materials:
- 1 Fat quarter for Exterior Main*
- 1 Fat quarter for Exterior Accent
- 1 Fat quarter for Interior
- 1 Fat eighth star fabric
- 2 yards of 1/2" twill tape, nylon paracord or 1/8 yd fabric
- Coordinating thread
- Acrylic ruler
- Large safety pin
- Pencil
- Optional: wooden beads

*This tutorial is written for using a non-directional fabric for the Exterior Main.

Looking for supplies? Check out my Pattern Supplies and Resources post.

Patchwork Star Lined Drawstring Bag Cutting:
From Exterior Main Fabric:
- Cut (1) 9”x10.5” piece
- Cut (8) 2.5"x2.5" block pieces
- Cut (2) 6.5"x2.5" side pieces
- Cut (1) 1"x10.5" top piece
- Cut (1) 2.5"x10.5" bottom piece

From Star Fabric:
- Cut (1) 2.5"x2.5" piece
- Cut (8) 1.5"x1.5" pieces

From Exterior Accent Fabric:
- Cut (1) 4”x21” strip
- Subcut into (2) 4”x10.5” pieces

From Interior Fabric:
- Cut (1) 12.5”x21” strip
- Subcut into (2) 12.5”x10.5” pieces

If using fabric for ties:
- Cut (2) 32”x2” strips

If using twill for ties:
- Cut (2) 32" pieces

Patchwork Star Lined Drawstring Bag Instructions:
*Use a 1/4” seam allowance unless otherwise noted*

Before constructing the bag, we first need to make the pieced Exterior Main piece.


1. Using a pencil, mark a diagonal line across the wrong side of all (8) 1.5" star fabric squares.


Place (1) 1.5" star fabric square in the upper-left corner of a 2.5" exterior main square, right sides together.



Stitch across the corner on the line you marked. Trim off the corner, leaving a 1/4" seam. Press corner up.


2. Place a second 1.5" star fabric square in the upper-right corner of the 2.5" exterior main square, right sides together.



Stitch across the corner on the line you marked. Trim off the corner, leaving a 1/4" seam. Press corner up.

Repeat with remaining pieces to create four total star point units.


3. Arrange star point units, 2.5" exterior main squares, and 2.5" star fabric square in three rows of three units each as shown in the above diagram.


Sew units together in each row. Press top and bottom row seams away from the center. Press middle row seams towards the center.


Sew rows together, matching up seams. Press seams open. Trim block to 6.5" square if necessary.


Now it's time to add the borders to the star block.


4. Sew the two 6.5"x2.5" side exterior main pieces to either side of the star block. Press seams away from block.


5. Sew the 1"x10.5" top side exterior main piece to the top edge of the block. Press seams away from block. Sew the 2.5"x10.5" bottom side exterior main piece to the bottom edge of the block. Press seams away from block. Trim piece to 9"x10.5" if necessary. This is the Exterior Main piece for one side of the bag.

Optional: You may choose to add additional structure to your patchwork with a lightweight interfacing. I would recommend something like SF101 by Pellon, and interfacing both Exterior Main pieces.

For the bag construction, refer back to the free tutorial or the everything size in the lined drawstring bag pattern, start at step 1.


I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! I can't wait to see the bags you make! Please share them with me on instagram @jenib320 + #lineddrawstringbag or via email (jenib320 @ gmail.com).

Happy Sewing!]]> Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQI8IX1NgCjS6Apx5_w21kha https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJTQj4KkE2yhkGb1Jh49AJn
Happy Friday! It's a special Friday Favorites for Thanksgiving, I'm sharing some of our favorite recipes and traditions. For the next few weeks Friday Favorites will be on hiatus, while I focus on the Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along. Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- This dish is the center of our thanksgiving. It's SO good. The fresh green beans don't get mushy and the crispy onions are unreal: Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions

- My go-to recipe for roasting a chicken, as recommended by my friend Deedrie years ago: Perfect Roast Chicken from the Barefoot Contessa Cookbook*

- I love scalloped corn, and grew up eating the frozen corn souffle by Stouffers. This is even better (in my opinion!) and from scratch: Scalloped Corn (I reduce the sugar to 1 T.)


- My favorite cranberry salad is from Krogers, which we don't have here in CT. So I make this copycat recipe every year: Cranberry Celebration Salad (I use cherry jell-o powder instead of raspberry.)

- Michael loves to have macaroni and cheese on Thanksgiving, and this is our favorite recipe: 3-Ingredient Stovetop Mac and Cheese (We add 1 tsp dijon mustard.)

- For most of the last 10 years, Michael and I have spent this holiday alone. It used to make me really sad, but now we have lots of traditions that make it special for just the two of us. One thing we always do is binge watch all three Lord of the Rings movies, starting on Thursday evening when we eat the first round of leftovers!


- I haven't decided if I'm going to make homemade rolls this year, but if I do it's going to be the Milk Bread Rolls from Mooncakes and Milk Bread*

- I've made this a few years and it's a favorite. Why choose between pie and cheesecake when you can have both? Can easily be made gluten-free by using cinnamon chex for more of a graham cracker crust: Cheesecake-marbled Pumpkin Slab Pie

- Some year I want to make the Cinnamon Icecream from The Perfect Scoop* to go with a pumpkin pie. It's our favorite homemade icecream recipe. I add vanilla so it's like cinnamon roll icing flavor. YUM.


- We like to pick up a special treat for our pets. I used to buy George bunny a brussel sprout. We're thinking about getting Dusty some salmon. We hang our outdoor birdfeeders this week too. We like to make sure the whole family gets treats.

Have a Great Weekend, and Happy Thanksgiving!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 18 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJTQj4KkE2yhkGb1Jh49AJn https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQIf7pEcuhSMmavLeqE6yv18
Welcome to the first post of the Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! We're kicking things off with a post all about making templates!

I'll be updating the Sew Along Page each week with all the posts so that you can easily catch up or reference these posts after the sew along ends!

I hope you'll sew along with us! Sew from the tutorial or the patterns:
Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial
Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern

Before we dive into today's post, let's quickly chat about our to-do for week 1 of the sew along!


This week's task is to plan your bags! It's time to decide how many bags you'd like to make, what sizes, and pick out fabrics. A few things you might find helpful when tackling this:

- I've got a post full of tips for choosing fabrics, specifically for drawstring bags. It includes a bunch of sample fabric pulls too. Find it here: Tips for Choosing Fabrics for Drawstring Bags

- This post is specifically about making drawstring bags for wrapping gifts. I've got some gift ideas for each size, to give you an idea of what would fit in all the different sizes: Tips For Using Drawstring Bags to Wrap Gifts

- Still looking for fabric combination ideas? I'd recommend checking out my Lined Drawstring Bag Pinterest Board and well as the #lineddrawstringbag hashtag on Instagram. You'll find lots of finished bags to take inspiration from!


Unlike a lot of bag patterns, my Lined Drawstring Bag Patterns and tutorial do not use templates for the cutting. All of the cutting is done with a rotary cutter. There are a few reasons for this:

1. The main reason is because all of the pieces required for all the different sizes are rectangular, which means they don't have any curves or special shapes that couldn't be cut simply with an acrylic ruler and rotary cutter.

2. I've written the cutting instructions so that it's nearly impossible to cut directional fabrics incorrectly for the exterior pieces.

3. It would be incredibly expensive to include templates for all 8 sizes in the pattern. It would make the pattern too pricey for this type of design, and I want it to be afforable.


If you're comfortable using a rotary cutter, cutting out pieces for this pattern shouldn't be too difficult. If you feel like you need a bit of guidance on the cutting, I highly recommend checking out the video tutorial I made last year that covers cutting out an Everything Bag all the way through to finishing! You can find it here: Lined Drawstring Bag Video Tutorial

Making your own templates for the pattern is easy and can be really useful! They're great if you don't know how or don't want to use a rotary cutter to do the cutting. Also if you're planning to make a large number of bags of the same size and want to speed up the cutting process. They're also nice for cutting quickly from scraps.


I made a video tutorial showing exactly how I made templates from poster board, which you can watch here. Or follow the written instructions below.

Step 1: Choose Your Template Material

The first thing to do is to choose your template material. There are a lot of materials that would make good templates, depending on how you plan to use them and how durable you need them to be. Here are a few options:

- Posterboard: This is my personal favorite material for templates. It's easy to find, inexpensive, and works well for cutting with scissors, or you can put a ruler and rotary cutter right on top of it. The main disadvantage is you can't see through it. It also may not last super long.

- Cardboard: Potentially a free option! A bit difficult to cut through neatly and you also can't see through this. More durable and long lasting than the posterboard.

- Template Plastic: This can be found at many craft stores, and is meant for making templates. The main advantage of this materials if you can see through it, which can be handy! It is the most expensive option and it doesn't come in super large pieces. It will be really durable, can be a bit difficult to cut through though.

- Wrapping Paper or Kraft Paper: I would only recommend this if you have nothing else on hand. It's not going to be durable beyond a few bags unless it's on the thicker size. One advantage though is that it's nice and wide!

Step 2: Determine Your Template Sizes

You'll want to make three templates, one each for the Exterior Main, Exterior Accent and Interior. Above you can see a photo of a portion of the cutting instructions in the pattern. On the second line of each cutting instructions you can see the piece size you'll need highlighted. All these measurements are listed as height x width.

It's the same for the free tutorial size, see below example.

From Exterior Main Fabric:
- Cut (1) 9”x21” strip
- Subcut into (2) 9”x10.5” pieces

From Exterior Accent Fabric:
- Cut (1) 4”x21” strip
- Subcut into (2) 4”x10.5” pieces

From Interior Fabric:
- Cut (1) 12.5”x21” strip
- Subcut into (2) 12.5”x10.5” pieces

These are the sizes you'll want to make your templates.

Step 3: Measure and Mark Cut Lines

I'm going to assume for this step that most folks making templates do not have acrylic rulers or a rotary mat. If you do, feel free to use them! You'll need a long ruler, a pen or pencil, some scissors that are appropriate for your material, and a large flat surface. Measure out your pieces and cut out carefully with scissors. Mark templates with pattern information and fabric direction.

Step 4: Use Your Templates

Place templates on fabric in desired orientation. Trace around template with a marking pen or pencil and cut out pieces with scissors. Alternatively, place acrylic ruler directly on top of paper template and cut pieces out with a rotary cutter.

I hope this post is helpful! I can't wait to see your projects! Please share them with me on instagram @jenib320 + #lineddrawstringbag or via email (jenib320 @ gmail.com)!

Happy Sewing!]]> Wed, 16 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQIf7pEcuhSMmavLeqE6yv18 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQK3KCaPjcnMgKgzzHWHxDTV
Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- My handwork project that I've been working on recently is tying one of my double gauze quilts, since the original quilting I did hasn't held up that well. I've never hand tied a quilt this size and it's been enjoyable!

- I love the colors in this beautiful quilt by Maddy.

- How cute are these drawstring bags made by Hanie?! I love that she used the same fabric for the main bag and the ties!

- My latest instagram follow is an artist named Maylee (@mayleemouse), loving her work!

- Drooling over this beautiful mid-century house that's for sale in Ontario, Canada.


- I'm back on the puzzle train! I'm about to finish this fun cacti & succulents puzzle* that I got second hand! Fingers crossed all the pieces are there.

- I recently discovered a new salty snack! We're loving these veggie crisps*. My favorite flavor is the black pepper!

- Michael and I have both been watching the show Andor recently. I'm not a huge Star Wars fan, but have been enjoying it!

- I was so excited to attend a zoom class this week with Deb Perelman in celebration of her upcoming book, Smitten Kitchen Keepers*. It comes out next week, and I can't wait for my pre-ordered copy to arrive!

- This cat meme is so true!!


- Dusty is very happy that it is heating pad season again!

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 11 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQK3KCaPjcnMgKgzzHWHxDTV https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJxd3znHz4L5eifqJurszLU
Happy Thursday! I am SO happy to share my latest quilt finish with you all! I present to you my finished Vintage Bear Paw Quilt!! I started this quilt back in Spring of 2019, so it's been a few years in the making!


I had a vision for this quilt when I first started it, but it honestly turned out better than the picture in my head. The only downside is I don't think it's true beauty shows up that well in photos. The contrast in places is so minimal and I think that's part of what makes it hard to capture. I love how soft it feels and looks.

I've written two pretty in depth posts about this quilt when it was in progress, which you can read here: Work in Progress: Vintage Sheet Bear Paw Quilt and Progress Check In: Vintage Sheet Bear Paw Quilt


This quilt is made entirely of reclaimed vintage bedsheets. Almost all of them came from thrift stores, but a few I found at antique stores, flea markets and couple on Etsy. One of my favorite things about my vintage sheet quilts is that quite a few of the fabrics in my collection have the memory of finding it attached. I also love being able to find/use the same print in multiple colors. I've been building my stash of sheets since 2006 or 2007? During the years that I sold vintage sheet fat quarters, I'd try to save a small piece of every different print that came through my doors. That allowed me to collect so many prints!

This design is pretty simple, it's really just a bear paw quilt block without any sashing or center squares! I used two colors in each block, using multiple fabrics for each color. I also coordinated the background fabrics for each block specially. A block that is orange and pink also has a white with orange background fabric and a white with pink background fabric.


I actually ended up making way too many blocks for this quilt, so I also made a baby quilt and a pillow, which I'll share soon! For the quilting, I kept things simple as usual. I did a combination of straight line quilting on the diagonal as well as vertically and horizontally.


I chose a really special sheet for the backing! This was one of the first sheet designs I thrifted and I fell in love with it right away. Lucky me I've thrifted a few more over the years and I happened to have this one tucked away that was the perfect size.


For the binding I ended up settling on this pink gingham. I would have loved to do a multi-colored stripe but didn't have enough of anything in my stash.


I remembered to add a label, again! I'm so pleased that I've been using these consistently again.


If you're interested in making a quilt like this too, I wrote up a pattern for it! (I promise I'm done releasing patterns for the year!!)

You can find the pattern for sale here: Vintage Bear Paw Quilt Pattern


The pattern features five sizes, including: Baby (40.5"x40.5"), Small Throw (54"x67.5"), Square (67.5"x67.5"), Large (67.5"x81"), Extra-Large (81"x94.5"). It's written for fat quarters but there are tables and instructions for cutting from scraps or other stash too. There are also coloring sheets for each quilt size so you can easily plan out your quilt!


My quilts made from vintage sheets are some of my very favorite, and I am looking forward to starting another one too! Perhaps not quite as long-term as this one turned out to be!

Happy Quilting!]]> Thu, 10 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJxd3znHz4L5eifqJurszLU https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKOvPVPEuEkYYMOI2eu70Rg
Thank you for your excitement about the upcoming Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! I wanted to share the schedule for the sew along so that you know what posts you can expect from me starting Wednesday, November 16th! If you'd like to break up your bag making across the sew along, I'm also sharing a schedule for making that you can choose to use if you'd like! I'll also be sharing my progress on my personal bags throughout the sew along! Here are the posts I have planned for each week:

Week 1
Tutorial post: Making Bag Templates
To do: Plan your bags! This week your task is to decide how many bags you'd like to make, what sizes, and pick out fabrics.

Week 2
Tutorial post: Patchwork Star Bag
To do: Cutting! Now's the time to finalize your fabric choices and cut out all the pieces for your bags.

Week 3
Tutorial post: Tips for Tidy Drawstring Casing Openings
To do: Sewing! Sew your bags through step 10. If you're making a lot of bags and you're short on time, I highly recommend making them assembly line style. This isn't quite as fun, but it's definitely more efficient!

Week 4
Tutorial post: Tips for Working with Paracord
To do: Final touches! Tackle those drawstring casings, make fabric ties or prep twill/paracord ties. Pull ties through the bags and finish them off with a simple knot or some fun beads!

Each week's post will go up on Wednesday! I'll update this post and the Sew Along page with the links as we go. You can find all of the previous year's sew along posts on that page too!

Participating is easy, we'll be using the #lineddrawstringbag hashtag on Instagram to share our progress. Not on Instagram? That's okay! Feel free to sew along and if you'd like, share your bags with me via email!


Sew from the free tutorial, the pattern or the expansion pattern! Both patterns are on sale, 20% off through 11/18/22. Prices are already marked down. Shop here:

Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern

Don't forget to pick up some supplies too!
Cotton Twill Tape
Round Wooden Beads
Nylon Paracord

Happy Sewing!]]> Tue, 08 Nov 2022 12:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKOvPVPEuEkYYMOI2eu70Rg https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJaWlWZ529ug-m6srrLMsqK
Happy November! It's time to reflect on what I worked on in the month of October and check in with my crafty goals and stash tracking. See past monthly reports here.


I did a ton of sewing this month! It felt good to finish a bunch of things and I felt motivated to sew more often. I managed to finish my vintage sheet bear paw baby quilt and pillow. Now I just need to photograph them and the large throw version I made too! I love how they all turned out. It was even more satisfying to finish since it was a long-term project.


I also started and finished a baby quilt for a friend. I dug back into some designs I did for Quilty Box a few years ago and adapted one for this quilt. I'll be sharing it at some point as a free tutorial.


Whoops, I made more Halloween bags! This everything size lined drawstring bag was made with scraps from my Halloween Nine-Patch Quilt. I've been holding onto the scraps for five years, so it feels good to make something with them! And who doesn't love a patchwork bag? I think it turned out pretty cute.


One more I made right before Halloween with this adorable ghost fabric! This is another everything size lined drawstring bag.


I finally had to retire the key fob that I friend made me years ago as I had completely worn it out! I managed to salvage the hardware and made myself a new one with this scrap of Liberty quilting cotton. It was tough to choose a fabric for this since it's something I use/see every single day!


I finished my first crochet project!! My scrap yarn basket is done! This thing used up 2100 yards of yarn, which is incredible. I held 5 strands at a time. It was made completely of scraps and partial skeins of dk, worsted, and aran weight yarns. Now I want to make another (albeit smaller) with sock weight yarns, because I have a lot of leftovers there too. Feels so good to clear out the scraps! I used this tutorial from My Poppet to make my basket.


I told you I was busy this month! I also finished a woven scarf! I need to get some better photos of it, but it's nice bright pink.

To keep myself accountable for my stash goals, I track my yardage for fabric and yarn each month. Read more about how I track here. Here is how I did in October:

October Fabric
Used up: 13.75 yard
Brought in: 7 yards
Net: -6.75 yards
Year to date: -52.75 yards

October Yarn
Used up: 2494 yards
Brought in: 0 yards
Net: -2494 yards
Year to date: -3494 yards

I bought fabric, again! I picked these up from Stash Fabrics and Hawthorne Supply Co. I wanted a few specific things for the sew along later in November, but I also realized that I've maybe restricted my buying a little too much. It's fun to bring in new fabrics to spark inspiration so I'm going to try to find a better balance. We'll see! Still managed to stay in the negative with all my finishes this month. And a lot of yardage used up on the yarn side too, woo hoo!

Let's check in my with 2022 crafty goals. This month I:
- Finished up the rest of the vintage bear paw quilt projects (long term WIP).
- Finished a weaving project.


On the DIY front, I finally painted our main bathroom this month. It needed it so badly and I had been putting it off since we moved in. It's a small room and our only bathroom with a shower, so a bit tough to paint! I'm very glad it's done and it looks so much better. Just a fresh coat of white.


Dusty kitty all snuggled up on my Keep Turning Quilt. :)

Have a Great Month!]]> Sat, 05 Nov 2022 12:33:27 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQJaWlWZ529ug-m6srrLMsqK https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQL1u97spv4k74vmyuk5fxzE
Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- I loved this block and bit of prose by Rossie Hutchinson on dahlias.

- How fun is this reel of drawstring bags made by Aubrey?

- I am so excited for this new holiday puzzle by Elena Essex*! Her puzzles are some of my very favorite. Can't wait for it to arrive!

- Added these yarn wrapped ornaments to my list of DIYs to do this winter!

- I would love to add a really tall long shelf somewhere in our house, like this one.


- Tried a new sweet recipe this week, this gingersnap recipe from Binging with Babish. I left off the apple slices and the powdered sugar. They're delicious. A keeper!

- I recently discovered a new salty snack! We're loving these veggie crisps*. Our favorite flavor is the chickpea ones, but the black pepper one is a close second!

- Funny animal video of the week is this kitty video. We have a lot of this in our house!!

- We started watching the Rings of Power* this week, and are enjoying it! We're a few episodes in, so we'll see how we end up liking it overall.


- Dusty managed to find a quilt to tuck herself into to sleep one night!

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 04 Nov 2022 11:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQL1u97spv4k74vmyuk5fxzE https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQK_UJSBtxPsRKbel3Iu4GjH
It's time for our annual Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along! This is the third year of this sew along and I hope you'll join in! These bags are my favorite way to wrap gifts and with the holiday season upon us, it's a great time to build up a stash of gift bags. The Lined Drawstring Bag Sew Along will officially kick off on Wednesday, November 16th and will run for four weeks! There is a dedicated sew along page, which I'll update as we go along. For now it has all of posts from the previous year's sew alongs!

Just like in years past, this sew along is going to be casual and no-stress. Full schedule of posts will be up next week! I'll share an informational post or tutorial each week plus the bags I'm making for my personal use. Participating is easy, we'll be using the #lineddrawstringbag hashtag on Instagram to share our progress. Not on Instagram? That's okay! Feel free to sew along and if you'd like, share your bags with me via email!

Sew from the free tutorial, the pattern or the expansion pattern! Both patterns are 20% off today through 11/18/22. Prices are already marked down. Shop here:

Lined Drawstring Bag Pattern
Lined Drawstring Bag Expansion Pattern


Don't forget to pick up some supplies while you're at it! The shop is stocked with lots of different cotton twill tape options, nylon paracord and wooden beads. Shop here:

Cotton Twill Tape
Nylon Paracord
Round Wooden Beads

Thank you for your continued support. Can't wait to sew bags together!

Happy Sewing!]]> Tue, 01 Nov 2022 17:23:42 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQK_UJSBtxPsRKbel3Iu4GjH https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLR6x6MxjQ7FFe5jCclomp-
Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- I made up a fresh batch of hot cocoa mix with my friend Deedrie's recipe. It's delicious and makes a really great gift! Now I want to make homemade marshmallows to go with it!!

- We still have a good amount of rice krispies leftover from my last batch of treats, so I tried a new recipe this week for salted caramel rice krispie bars! They're tasty, but very decadent. Not going to replace my go-to recipe but it was fun to try something different!

- Easily my favorite thing I saw on the internet this week was this cute dog video.


- Signed copies of my book, Patchwork Essentials: The Half-Square Triangle, are back in stock in my online shop! I ran out and it took a few weeks to get back in. Hard to believe my book came out seven years ago!

- I really love this appliqué pillow by Jo Avery. The colors are so striking!

- How cute are these strawberry project trays from Penguin & Fish?


- These little wallets by Anna Graham are so cute. I made one a few years ago (pictured above, see this post!) and this makes me want to make another!

- I thoroughly enjoyed watching this 300-year old barn restoration in France by a father and son.

- I ordered myself a new coat* this week. I actually have the exact same coat in navy that I've been wearing for the last seven years, but it has seen better days. With the removable liner I can wear it year round! I got it in green this time.


- Dusty kitten. She doesn't like it when we're in the kitchen cooking, and insists on supervising despite this. Miss grumpy kitty.

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 28 Oct 2022 11:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLR6x6MxjQ7FFe5jCclomp- https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKSqMpHPdoVnwVLTsI7B9NX
Happy Wednesday! I love to make handmade decor and bags for Halloween every year, and I though it would be fun to see all (or most ) of them together in one place.

Let's start the round up with some of the Halloween themed drawstring bags I've made over the years. I held onto this amazing plaid fabric from New Bedford by Denyse Schmidt* for years before I could work up the nerve to cut into it. It's just so good! For this bag I used the bottom accent variation from my lined drawstring bag expansion pattern.


Another adorable (if I do say so myself) drawstring bag. This one was made with this sweet candy print from Boo by Cotton & Steel*. I use this one year round if I'm honest! It's the project size from my lined drawstring bag pattern.


This little Halloween countdown project is kind of like an advent calendar but for Halloween! I made seven spooky tiny lined drawstring bags and each day I fill them with candy or an activity to do or movie to watch. You can read more about this project here: Last Minute Halloween Countdown Project.


A spooky cute drawstring bag! I made this bag last year with some prints from Spooky 'n Sweeter by Art Gallery Fabrics*. Such a fun line. This is the peek-a-boo lining variation from my lined drawstring bag expansion pattern, plus some twill and wooden beads to finish it off.


I had so much fun making this little spooky village! It's made from plain wooden birdhouses from the craft store that I painted with acrylic paints and decorated with glitter and some bats cut out with my Cricut Maker*. I was inspired by this post from A Beautiful Mess to make my own.


One of my very favorite Halloween projects I've made is my coffin pillow! I put it out every year. I have a free tutorial for the paper pieced block that you can find here: Paper Pieced Coffin Quilt Block Tutorial


Used with permission from Quilts & More™ magazine. ©2019 Meredith Corporation. All rights reserved.

I still love this little candy tote bag I made for Quilts & More magazine. This tote project was in the Fall 2019 issue. The candy blocks were inspired by Smarties, which are a favorite candy of mine. Read more about this project here: Quilts and More: Trick or Treat Tote Bag


Speaking of candy, I made this tote bag with trick or treating in mind! It is the Simple Tote from my Elemental Tote Bag Pattern. It's made using this adorable fabric* by Heidi Kenney.


I've made two Halloween quilts, but I definitely can see myself making another some day. First up this really simple nine-patch quilt. I used a fat quarter bundle of Lil Monsters* by Cotton and Steel. Read more about this quilt here: Halloween Nine-Patch Quilt


The other Halloween quilt I have made is my Webbed Quilt! I wrote a pattern for this super-sized spiderweb block quilt which can be found here: Webbed Quilt Pattern. I collected fabrics for this quilt for many years and I love pulling it out every year. It's quilted with a spiderweb design, which I still think looks so cool! Read more about this quilt here: Webbed Quilt


A few years ago I made this cute wall hanging using my friend Dana Bolyard's Ghost Town Quilt Pattern. I had lots of fun fussy cutting all the little details and using up my scraps!


Last but not least, a mish mash of patchwork Halloween projects! A Boo sign that I hang on a door each year and some table toppers made from scraps. Read more about these projects here: Patchwork Halloween Projects

And that's it for now! Like I said, I hope to make another Halloween quilt one day, and I would love to make a few more Halloween pillows at some point. I definitely still have enough seasonal fabric in my stash!

Happy Making!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Wed, 26 Oct 2022 11:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQKSqMpHPdoVnwVLTsI7B9NX https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLVQwVo2AHAdslTP0vptTFR
Happy Friday! It's time for another Friday Favorites post! Catch up on previous posts here: Friday Favorites Archives

- I had a lot of fun sharing my love of dahlias with our neighbors and friends this week! I love delivering surprise bouquets. I'm already sad about the growing season coming to an end soon.

- How cute are these tiny pinwheel blocks by Amy Smart?

- Check out this beautiful thread collection coming soon from Porfiria Gomez!

- These patchwork stockings in progress by New Song Quilt Co are so cheerful!


- I roasted pumpkin seeds this week, which is one of my favorite snacks! I keep mine really simple with just butter and salt. This is how I roast mine.

- We tried a new recipe this week, the polenta-baked eggs from Smitten Kitchen Every Day*. It was tasty! We overcooked our eggs a little bit, but it has promise for sure. but I'm trying to make an effort to make things from my cookbook collection.

- We finally start watching Derry Girls on Netflix and are loving it. I don't know why it took us so long to watch it, but it's hilarious!

- Cute animal video alert, a cat named Gandalf enjoying her favorite snack!

- I wanted to give a shoutout this week to a business in my hometown, Root Candles. A home blogger I follow mentioned them recently, which was so strange to me!


- Dusty kitty all snuggled up amongst handmade goodness. :)

Have a Great Weekend!

*Note: Any links marked with an asterisk in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click through and buy something, I make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.]]> Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:09:13 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/h7XsnPnQvQLVQwVo2AHAdslTP0vptTFR