Martinique

I think it was three years ago when I came across an online sale of a charm squares and went a bit crazy in the amount of them that I purchased.  My justification? It was a really good sale with the packs less than $5 CAD. Recently I have been working my way through this stack and using them to make runners, quilts and other objects and I am pleased with the rate they are shrinking.

One of those charm packs was called Martinique from Moda, which is a nice blend of coral, browns and aqua dots, florals and stripes.  Its very pretty and feminine without being cloying if you know what I mean. 

 As you can see I paired it with a solid in a soft sand color. This is a Art Gallery Solid that my LQS has on sale for $10/m which is a great deal so I bought lots of it.  So soft and silky and has a bit of a sheen to it that really looks good in the quilt.

The block is a simple HST sewn to make a square. Add this sashing fabric from Kate and Birdie you have a nice mix that is appealing to the eyes. The pattern is one from Fons and Porter Quilting Quickly, Fall 2014, which by the way has some great quick patterns that I am wanting to use to make some Christmas present quilts. The quilt when it is finished, later today I hope, will measure 53 x 73.

Carnaby Street Placemats

The LQS down from the base recently got in some Art Gallery fabric, a line named Carnaby Street. Since my moms birthday is coming soon I thought that I would sit down and make her some fresh place mats. They use them regularly so new ones will be welcome.  Now if I can only get her to throw the old ratty ones out.

Placemats are one of my go to items for gifts.  They are often quick to make and a good way to use up fabric. I often try to find new designs to add to my to do list so when I came across the pattern by Susan Weinroth I added it to my list.  I love that it uses multiple fabrics, is large enough for big size plates and the best of all - a pocket for your napkin or silverware.

I debated on what to use for the back of these. I did buy some more of the Carnaby Street line  as you see pictured above but changed my mind and used two different pieces of balis that compliment the front.  As for the length of Carnaby Street print, I am thinking about making a head band like Daisy wears in the Great Gatsby.