Pretty in Patchwork Holidays

I'm very excited that a few of my patterns are now available in this fabulous new book called Pretty in Patchwork Holidays. First it was only available as e-book but since a week or two you can get the printed version of the book in online stores as well as in 'real' book stores. Of course I'm totally biased but I honestly think this book is a great addition to your crafty bookshelf.

There are so many original and beautiful modern patchwork patterns in this book, ranging from  small projects like my Polar bear ornament (this bear is quite popular I believe!)....

....to beautiful quilt throws like this one, it's called Christmas in the City, by John Adams (aka Quiltdad) who is also the author of the book. And while some patterns are definitely Christmas patterns there are also patterns in this book for items you can use for the whole winter season (see examples above) or adjust to other occasions like Halloween. A lot of the patterns also are great for gifts like this cute apron by Cathy Gaubert.

And here's my other contribution to the book: a Hedgehog softie with festive pillowcase.

The book has beautiful photography throughout and it sure is a fantastic source of holiday sewing inspiration. I'm so chuffed that I'm part of it!

Pillow talk

I just received Jenny Hart's new book Embroidered Effects in the mail and this (see photo) could very well be the first project I will be making from this book! In our house pillowcases rarely match the duvet covers. I'm not sure how it happens but pillowcases often seem to get temporarily lost in the huge amounts of laundry I have to do every week. But since I started stitching pillowcases this is no longer a problem and I now have a choice of three extra pillowcases (see them here, here and here)!

I have only flicked through Embroidered Effects but it looks like a 'must have' for beginners (I wish I had it when I started out) and fans of Sublime Stitching. There is lots of info about tools and fabrics, stitches, extra effects (sequins for example). Many fun projects and even quite a few transfers are added. Some of the patterns have been released earlier in the Sublime Stitching Craft Pad by the way, most patterns are new to me.

After all this Sublime Stitching talk  I'd like to add that some of my own designs would be wonderful on pillow cases too, like the hibernating bear and hedgehog!

No more wip's

I will not bore you anymore with wip's of my Sublime Stitching Pillowcase because it's finished! Towards the end of a large-ish embroidery project like this I become a bit manic, because I REALLY want to finish it. Anyway I'm really pleased with this pillowcase, especially the filled in hearts. And the birds are so cute!

I'm also looking forward to my next project. I just made a few test transfers from my new pattern which I will stitch (hopefully) during the week of the move. I've already made an 'emergency creative kit' with a hoop, my new transfers, scissors, my Emily Martin sketchbook and a pencil. Still have to decide which floss to take with me.