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Friday, July 27, 2012

Vintage Finds and Chevron Prettiness

I've definitely been noticing a rise in the popularity of Chevron designed quilts and fabrics. It's stemmed from the US and has been greatly encouraged by modern examples of these quilts showing up on places like Pinterest. It's not only popular in quilts, but also in home decorating, with many nursery walls being adorned with Chevron wall papers. There are even countless tutorials online for how to paint your own Chevron walls, rugs, or create bracelets. The options are endless when it comes to Chevrons so it seems!


It makes me think and wonder of how designs and items actually become popular. Obviously the internet has a lot to answer for now, with the instant spread of popular designs. It's almost like a cult like fever that sweeps around creative people, each one not wanting to be left out of the new fad. It's funny how we all naturally follow the crowd!


So, here I am, joining in with the multitude of Chevron fuss! I've been playing with a Freespirit Fabric Roll, called Kumari Garden, by Dena Fishbein. It's a really pretty palette of sassy pinks, and vibrant aquas, with a real exotic flavour. It's fun!
So after a bit of maths and brain work, I figured out a way to cut the strips with less waste, and ensure I get my lovely zig zag style. I'm just putting the final finishing touches on this little cot quilt, so I'll be back to show the finished look soon.


A lady came into the shop quite a few weeks ago, not aware of the fuss she would create between staff members! For under her arm, and tucked up in an innocent shopping bag was a truly vintage quilt made entirely from original 1930's fabrics.


The flutter that was sent through myself and fellow staff member Louise when the quilt was unveiled, nearly shocked the lady, who thought we must have been quite mad. But seriously - a 1930's hand pieced quilt! It was just delightful and oh, so pretty. Some one, and sadly, we don't know whom, put in a lot of work and effort to stitch this beautiful creation at least 50 or 60 years ago. They sadly never got around to completing it, leaving it just as a quilt top, and lacking it's final finishing touches. The lady who bought the piece in, was just handed the quilt by a great Aunt, and had actually thoughts of handing it into an Op Shop. The aghast looks on Louise and my face suddenly set her to realise how precious and important this piece of history was. The quilt deserved to be loved, and deserved to be finished and enjoyed for how valuable it is.


After many gracious volunteers on Louise and my part to 'take on the quilt,' and 'look after it,' and 'give it a good home,' the lady decided to infact keep it, and do the quilt justice by finishing it. And as much as Louise and I would have loved to 'share' the quilt between the two of us, (more like a fight to the death till one was victorious,) we were grateful to see it would be finished.


What I also found to be wonderful about this quilt, was the fact that our reproduction 1930's fabrics, of which I am a HUGE fan of, are so true and so similar to their original counterparts. It was delightful to recognise so many similar characteristics and designs and colours of the fabrics, which are now readily available for purchase on our shelves. It was beautiful to have witnessed and seen this delightful quilt, which we now hope will be a treasured and finished item, handed down to generations to come.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Handmade Patchwork Quilts

Change is one of those funny things. Normally I avoid it at all costs, happy to stay in my familiarity and comfort. Like most of us, I'm sure!

But Missy Mack has been evolving and changing, and I'm loving it! I first started this blog to share my latest sewing creations, and to connect with other crafters worldwide. And I guess, that hasn't actually changed. Everyone loves a bit of show and tell, and a good chat. Add some chocolate in there, and a Chai Latte and I'm a happy little chick!


I feel like I am finally falling into something I have always dreamt of doing - making and selling my handmade items. Particularly Patchwork Quilts. I find great enjoyment in designing and creating quilts, and seeing other people appreciate and love them. I sold a cute little pony quilt, made from Heather Ross fabric to the US a few weeks ago, and gosh, I was so excited! To think that something I have made is now being used by a family for their baby. I love it!



So, my show and tell for today are some quilts that I have listed on Etsy. Gee, what a fun site that is. I am constantly inspired by the talented people on Etsy.
These two are Cot Quilt size, and the actual pictured quilts aren't for sale. Instead, a custom quilt will be made in the buyers choice of colours and fabrics. I find it great fun working with clients to choose the right fabrics for them. It's great to put in that personal touch through a favourite animal or colour.


So, I'm a pretty busy, but rather happy girl at the moment, and Simon is getting used to hearing all my 'etsy talk.' He is a wonderful support in all my endeavours. Bless his gorgeous heart.