I cut this fabric out maybe three years ago? But only started sewing it a few weeks ago. I'm so happy to finally have it finished! I think if I made another one now, I would use different fabrics, but this one is bright and colorful, and that's fun! :) (most fabrics are Robert Kaufman, white is Kona White.) Just so you are aware, sewing on the numbers took SO long! I tried to get it finished by the first, and totally could have, except for all those numbers. You could probably sew them on/attach them differently, and it would be a very fast project.
In the sashing I quilted a spiral design, which I think has the perfect feel for Christmas!
My quilting leaves much to be desired, but for not practicing very much, I'm quite pleased with it. :)
Now to tell you what not to do:
When I sewed the pocket panels, I only sewed a 3/8" seam, when I was supposed to sew a 3/4" seam = you can't see very much of the back of the pocket. :( I knew as I was sewing them that it had to be wrong, but I didn't want to get up and go in the other room to check, so I just kept sewing. lol. A lazy mistake. So if you're lazy like me, don't do it. :)
I also don't know how all my pinks and reds got in the center. I think when I laid it out to arrange the colors I had the numbers fabric on top. It looked really good to me! So either I messed up by arranging based on the wrong fabrics, OR they just got mixed up in the shuffle of ironing and sewing the numbers on. I don't know. I am still happy with it though, so not a big deal. Just something to mention: Arrange block placement by the front pocket fabric!
Now to find some goodies to fill it with! Mostly I want to make laminated cards to keep in the pockets, each one with a service project, scripture, song, story, etc to do. I enjoy bringing in the Christmas Spirit with giving and serving rather than just candy and gifts. Though those are fun too. ;)
Oh, and talking about giving... If you are still looking online to do your holiday shopping, don't forget to use Ebates.com! Ignore my "sales pitch" voice, because I really honestly do love shopping with Ebates. (I always get so paraoid that I sound like a salesman). I've been using Ebates for years! They have a list of available coupon codes for each merchant, as well as cash back percentages. I've saved a ton when shopping at Fabric.com, Old Navy (today Old Navy is having a 35% off sale + 2% cash back - sometimes it's more!), Puma - my husbands favorite, they have Overstock, Hancock Fabric, tons of clothing stores, Walmart, Target, Amazon, Groupon, etc. I wouldn't tell you about it if I didn't love it myself! Plus, you get $5 when you sign up and make a qualifying purchase. If you're going to shop online anyway... ;)
Ok, I hope you are all having a wonderful week!!
Don't forget to enter my giveaway! ends tomorrow night.
