Around the World

You might have already seen Around the World posts in the blogosphere. I was invited by both Jessica and Elizabeth to join in (I'm a few days early for Elizabeth's tag, but I'm just going to post once!). Thanks for inviting me, friends! So, I'll jump right in with a few thoughts on sewing, and some photos that make me happy.

1. What quilting/sewing thing am I working on?

So, you may already know that I have many projects going on at the same time. I've tried to be monogamous, or monogamish, as C would say. I do tend to focus on a project with my whole head and heart, once I hit a certain point. Currently, the sewing project that has (most of) my attention is this curvy number.

2. How does my work differ from others of its genre?

If I had to choose one word to describe my style, it would be scrappy. If I could pick a second word, I'd pick vibrant. I've been told that my pairing of colors or prints is unexpected, which I take as a compliment.

I think some people are afraid of making a daring choice, whether it be a print or color.

But quilting, as with any craft, should be about fun and expression. I like trying new blocks, new techniques, and new patterns. I like using every last bit of a fabric. Sorting scraps or pulling fabrics is lots of fun. Of course, having a well-rounded stash is part of that last bit.

3. Why do I write/create what I do?

Creating gives me such a sense of confidence.

No matter how crappy a day is, if I can get a little sewing or knitting in, it's not so bad. I never imagined crafting would provide me with so much calm.

And I love giving handmade gifts. making something special for a friend or family member warms my heart.

I tag: Claudia, Amanda-My Sewcial Hour and Amanda-The Craft Junky. I met all three of these wonderful ladies at sewing summit. Claudia lives in Germany, and I'm dying to make her star plus quilt, which she's about to release as a pattern.
Amanda-My Sewcial Hour lives just a few hours from me, and I've had the pleasure of spending long hours with her at retreats, soaking up her amazingness. And Amanda-The Craft Junky, well, I'm amazed by her drive. She recently sold her screenprinted wares at two conventions. I don't know how she pulled that off, but she is awesome. I love talking to her about current and future projects.

So, that's it! Claudia and the two Amandas will post next week!

A simple handmade gift

I was just joking with E last night about my never-ending to-do list. Like most crafters, I want to make ALL of the things.

My brain knows that I never will, but the heart wants what it wants.

With Christmas just two weeks away, the to-do list is especially long. But I finally made a batch of gifts that I know will be repeated next year.

I made three quick scrubs today, resulting in twelve small gifts.

I bought a twelve-pack of 4-ounce Ball jars, printed some free labels, and spent a little over an hour in the kitchen. Not bad!

Here's a basic recipe that you can modify, based on your preferences.

1 cup sea salt, brown sugar or white sugar
3 T coconut or grapeseed oil
6-10 drops essential oil

That's it! I used lavender (and some chopped rosemary) with sea salt, cinnamon with brown sugar (but I think I'll try orange next time) and peppermint with white sugar.

I really appreciate anything handmade, and I can't wait to try these scrubs for myself. And of course, I can't wait to give them!