Guest Posting at Desert Chica!

Today I'm sharing my thoughts on how to tackle kids costumes for Halloween!

Be sure to stop my very best friend's blog, Desert Chica Ramblings..

Hooked on Sewing - Halloween Coasters

I'm so excited to dive back into my "hooked on sewing" projects. The latest one I created is listed now in my Etsy shop. I have wanted to make my reversible coasters for awhile. The backs are crocheted rounds with hand appliqued fabric on top. Perfect coasters!

I love these coasters are soft..with two young kiddos I'm always trying to create beautiful items for the home that can not be easily broken or ruined.. Most of our ceramic coasters were damaged in the last four years..

These coasters won't scratch your table, won't break on tile, or hurt little one's teeth if they decide to trying chewing on them.. Not that my kids ever tried to chew a coaster before..

Lots of more Halloween goodies coming soon! Have you started making projects for the fall season yet?

Dresden Challenge - SLMQG

I have been a member of the Salt Lake Modern Quilt Guild for almost a year. I've met friends, learned new techniques, been inspired, and most important - been surrounded by others that understand a love of fabric.

The SLMQG came up with a challenge that has taken on a life of its own. We were tasked with creating a Dresden quilt, inspired by Darlene Zimmerman's amazing template.

What did I make? 

I made an art quilt inspired by Dia de los Muertos. I love Day of the Dead! My husband is of Mexican heritage and it is important to me that our daughters embrace their Latin roots. Day of the Dead is NOT Halloween. It is not scary. It is a joyful occasion when families remember and celebrate those that have passed. Decorations are bright, cheerful, and yes lots of skulls.

Why did I make an art quilt? I quite often struggle with my love for true art and what is considered mainstream. I have boxes full of patterns from designers that appeal to the masses. And I love them.. However when I create, many time I'm trying to express a feeling, a thought.. something that may speak to only a few. But do these two loves always have to conflict? I don't think so..

So the challenge to me was to use this amazing Dresden template - something that would be a great tool for all quilters.. and make something that spoke from my heart. Something that I consider beautiful and unique.

On my quilt I have a folded rose with skull..

Lots of hand embroidery

Free motion quilting and lots of painting..

I hope this inspires you to try creating a bridge between traditional quilting with art quilting. Darlene Zimmerman's template laid the foundation for a perfect Dresden circle. It created a crucial base for my art quilt. I can't wait to play with this more! This template also makes a fabulous mini tree skirt, which was my original idea.. Come back later this month and maybe you will find a Halloween tree skirt using this same template!

Back To School Dresses

It was impossible to have both girls look in my direction, smile, and not have their dresses flipped over their heads. Alas, it was the first day of school and you HAVE to take pictures..right, right? 

Do you like their dresses? They love them and I adore them.. The fabric is Blend designed by the truly amazing Cori Dantini, the line is "Beauty is You". I am crazy about this fabric.. amazing quality, style, and color tones. Couldn't you just see those as an Anthro dress?

The pattern is by the fabulous Jennifer Paganelli - it is the Molly Peasant pattern. Sis Boom patterns are insanely detailed and include tons of sizes. I can't say enough about this pattern. I'm in the process of making two more for a dear friend's angel pie. Love it, love it. You need this pattern.

A few more gratuitous pics of my pretty girls..

Kiddo had a fabulous first day! Yay! Hope your kidlets are enjoying their return to school..

Getting Ready For School

We had so much fun today, enjoying the last bit of summer before school starts tomorrow. From playing on the slip n slide to bubbles on the deck. This summer has flown by - it's amazing how much faster time flies with each passing year. *Sigh*

Hubby was all set to take Kiddo out on their annual backpack shopping trip, but she declined. She's still totally in love with her Dora one from last year. So I spent that little bit of extra money on someone that could use a treat right now too.. Kiddo's teacher!

I saw this incredible gift basket idea on Pinterest from Serenity Now. My items are a little different, but very much the same idea. My basket is full of Clorox wipes, hand wipes, tissues, Airborne (preschoolers are germ factories!!), some chocolate bars, and more.

My favorite part of the basket though is the getting to know you form for her teacher. I saw *someone* post something similar to this on Facebook. I have looked high and low.. can not find the original source, so if you are them or know them -please email me and I will give credit where credit is due.

I love this idea.. I love knowing more about the amazing teacher that will be spending mornings with my Kiddo. I love having a better clue as to what I can buy her to thank her later in the year.

Really, it didn't cost too much and I sincerely hope it makes her smile...

Here's hoping Kiddo has an amazing day tomorrow. And of course I made her something to wear.. and something for Baby too. And, yes I'll show you tomorrrow..

Lots of love,
me