Sewing Retreat Prepping

Prepping is done and packed up ready for my next retreat. I'm usually doing it all at the last minute. This time though, I had already decided that I wanted to work on Quiltmas projects. A festive wall hanging to start with. 

I've had this cute pattern in my pile for quite a few years. Definitely since before Covid.

I might even get to finish it before next Quiltmas! It's quite a small project. 

A bit too small for me?... here we go!

I took the applique pattern pages to the library and had them enlarged by 135%

I thought it would be a bit easier for stitching around all the tiny baubles. They are still quite tiny though. All the applique pieces traced, cut, sticky-stuffed and pressed in place, excellent prep. I've got all the threads and bobbins in a box with spare needles! That should take at least a day, do you agree?

With increasing the size of the applique, I had to use a larger background piece, obviously. So I needed to adjust the border blocks. The Friendship Star didn't look cute enough in the larger size. I pondered and did the mathemisms then decided to use Wonky Stars, finished size needed to be 3 3/4" . I should need 30 of them, blimey! That might be more than one day's sewing.

Once I had cut all of the little squares, I made a sample. Cute? I decided to use the same background fabric for all of the stars. It took a lot of will power not to continue making them... They are all in a box to stop that happening! A rotary cutter, a spare rotary blade, neutral piecing thread, pins, thread snips, little square ruler, scissors, thread catcher pot, coffee mug (in a lovely mug bag) polo mints & tissues!!! I think I have remembered everything? Oooooh, mustn't forget my toothbrush and clean knickers!

Now, just to remind you all...

My shop will be open tomorrow, 17th February from 9:30 am to 4pm

It will not open again until next Tuesday, 24th February. 

As before, No apology, fun must be enjoyed!