Birthday Pillows

My brother's girlfriends' birthday was yesterday. I had no idea what to get her. When I asked my brother what he thought I should get, he said "oh.....you're buying something? That's weird..." I instantly felt bad about it. Michelle is one of the people in my life who loves everything I make...even the stuff I hate. After thinking about it for a couple of days, I decided to make pillows since I had two 18" pillow forms that I had just bought on sale. I have made pillows before but not a lot of them. I have been into stars lately so I decided to make little star blocks that measured 4.5" unfinished. I have to say sewing so many little pieces was a challenge but I really loved making them. I was going to do the whole pilllow in these little stars but I was under a deadline. I decided to make four small ones for the corners and a larger center block. the second pillow was a much simpler one and came together in a couple of hours. I made it with some uneven strips and stacked them. the quilting is some simple crosshatching which I always love. I used a lot of the same fabrics in both pillows as I wanted them to go together but not be matchy, matchy. I really love how these pillows turned out. I really want to keep them even thought they don't match anything in my house. If I can't keep them, I'm glad they're going to a good home where my work is always loved and appreciated.



Now, if any of you follow the Stitched In Color blog, which I creep daily, you will know the Bloggers Pillow Party has been going on for a few months. I love looking at the pillows everyone has made. I have decided to enter my Star pillow. This is difficult for me as I am my own worst critic but I think this one may be worthy. If you haven't already, go on over and check out everyone's beautiful pillows.

Shop Changes

So I have been thinking a lot lately of my little shop on Etsy. I have been selling bags and accessories online for about five years but about 8 years in total. I've been feeling a little burnt out lately. I work a 40 hr a week job and easily put in another 30 a week sewing. I have decided to focus mainly on wallets and smaller accessories as they are my biggest sellers. I will be putting my bags on sale and won't be listing any more anytime soon. I feel it's better for me to focus on the more popular items and give myself a little break. I'm not saying I won't be making bags again but I need to focus on something else for a little while.

I have been quilting a lot lately and making pillows and placemats, a lot more home items. This is something I'm going to consider adding to my shop or opening up a shop later in the spring for home items. We'll see where it takes me. In the meantime, my wallets and pouches and smaller wristlet bags will still be available in the shop and I hope to have more variety soon.

My bags will be put on sale to clear out starting today, so check it out if you are looking for a new bag.