Hall of Fame - Part Two

Welcome  to Part 2 of the Hall of Fame Blogposts. It is my pleasure to show some of the bags both big and small that have made an appearance this year following attendance at a Sewmiriam Workshop.

Elaine made these two delightful bags for her granddaughters. Don't the polka dot handles look perfect.

She also made a stunning 'Whopper Shopper.'

Pat made one too , with wonderful graphic prints and cool colours. I love the large print fabric.

Robyn  made an up sized handy zip top bag 

and a Handy Zip Top Bag from selvedges.

Just look at the pretty back and the beautiful lining. I am a great believer in making the lining something special . This surprise inside always creates an unexpected delight. 

Here is a wonderful bag from another  Robyn 

And last but not least - here are some all standing in a row

I hope you have a week of creative inspiration.

Happy sewing, love Miriamx 

Sewmiriam Quilt Express Workshop

I love a great workshop! Today was just that. Not only was there spring warmth in the air, but there was a buzz in the workroom, as blocks were being created for table runners, and fabulous quilts. Techniques today included piecing, quilting and backing in one step, and a variety of sashing options.  Quilt Express indeed!

Learning a new skill is always a challenge, but once mastered the possibilities are endless. We are so lucky to have found an activity that encourages us to build on our skills and break the boundaries, whether we are traditional, modern or avant- garde. 

Helen started a quilt using nautically inspired prints. The play between graphic and novelty prints, spots and stripes is wonderful.

Sue has started a beautiful quilt, with grays, muted shades and pops of colour. The effect is stunning.

Margaret worked her magic with beautiful Japanese indigo inspired fabrics,

Nancy is working on a bright quilt which is fresh and delightful.

Sandy was well prepared with strips ready for piecing

Sandy's Christmas table runner blocks are gorgeous. She is on a roll!

Dee is making a table runner full of whimsy and French charm

I am sorry Leonie and Judy , but I do not have clear photos of your blocks. They are splendid. Judy is taking a graphic bicycle tree pattern in shades of red, blue and mustard and creating a visually dynamic quilt. Leonie has chosen tropical prints and is creating a  " vogue style" quilt.

Thank you ladies for a wonderful, inspiring workshop. It is always a pleasure to have your company and share a love of quilting with you. 

Happy sewing, love Miriamx 

Hall of Fame - Sewmiriam Workshop Showcase No. 1

One of the  most rewarding things for me as a teacher is when I am shown finished items that have been made at and after one of my bag making workshops at Cottage Quiltworks.

Here is Gerri's first  delightful bag 

There now are quite a few Sewmiriam bags out there! They are given as gifts, or store all sorts of sewing items. I see them making star appearances at sewing days.  Many a lucky grand daughter, niece, aunt, daughter or mother is now the proud owner of one.

Sandy is on a roll with her bags for special little girls in her life

Even the boys are getting them as iPad covers. Isn't that grand!! This one is for my son Cameron.

So, in honour of those who have made one ( or more!) I have decided to have a series of "Hall of Fame Showcase " blogposts  where you will be celebrated !! I know I don't have photos of all the bags out there, but I do have quite a few to share. Take a bow ladies, you are inspirational.

Here is Annette's bag for her Mum

The lovely ladies at Fairholme Quilters were the first to do my bag making workshops. They took the two bag patterns on offer, and created brilliant bags - both big and small.

Georgie made this Whopper Shopper for herself,

and then this beautiful one for her sister Phyll

                    

 This bag was made by Ros, shown here both front and back

And that's only the beginning!!!! Pop back to see more over the coming weeks.

Thank you talented ladies, for sharing in this creative journey with me. 

Happy sewing, love Miriamx

iPad Covers

August is a busy birthday month in our family. If I get the time, I love to make something that is personal and appealing as a gift. This year it is all about the iPad. Members of our family, young and old, are getting on the technological  band wagon.

In response to this I have been making iPad covers by adapting my Handy Zip Top Bag pattern. If you don't box the corners and place the zipper at one of the shorter sides, you get a bag that fits an iPad perfectly!! 

Here is one with an Elvis theme for my son Cameron, thanks to my kind friend Annette who gifted me with this Gracelands fabric.

Here is one for Lorraine with a French theme

And here is a floral one , just for fun

If you have done my workshop, you can easily make one too! Bonus! 

I have been playing around with batting, and have tried out the product 'soft and stable.' It works perfectly for an iPad cover, being flexible, soft and durable. Something to think about if you plan to make one.

I hope you are finding time in your busy lives to slow down and enjoy a few creative moments.

Happy sewing, Miriam x