WIP Wednesday- a label, a backing, hexagons and new project

My Little Apples Valentine quilt was selected by Portland Modern Quilt Guild to be in the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show- but it needed a label. I should have been labeling all my quilts, I know, and from now on I will (I hope the Spoonflower way, like Jaybird Quilts shows) but for this I had to go simple because it had to be done soon. So I went the route of hand embroidered and spliced onto the back, and I like the way it came out.

I also have been working on a backing for the Sparkle Punch quilt- just piecing the squares I cut (please do not ask why in the world I cut so many in the first place) to make a big stripe on the back and some randomly placed squares in the solids. My 2.5 year old has been very excited to help with sewing these- he is always asking.

I have jumped on the hexagon train too, but only because it does not involve hand piecing. I am using the machine piecing method outlined by Lady Havartine. The above-mentioned toddler has outgrown his baby blanket and quilt and has been asking for a "big boy blanket." Enter those 6 yards of Curious Nature...

I am adding a new project too, which is jumping to the top of my priority list: a baby quilt for my nephew due in September. His mom picked this quilt, which I am ecstatic to make as well, so everything is coming up roses there. Any advice for fabrics, besides Children at Play? I know we are going to switch the largely white background to a darker blue (because who needs the stain issues with a newborn) but am happy to have suggestions on the rest!

Linking up...

Block for Sisters quilt block contest

Fun. And a pain in my bum. I started with a plan and then I could not resist my desire to improv everything. I used almost every scrap of fabric they sent to use for the block- and it seemed like plenty for two! It measures 9.5" square. The reverse looks almost as cool as the front.

Slouch bag finish (+pattern fail)

Over the weekend I received this book from a friend who thought I would love the projects. I do! There are a ton of gorgeous things to make, and I knew the slouch bag would be the one I wanted to start with- and I had the perfect fabric! I have this organic dahlia print from Harmony Art (called Evelyn) in my stash, and I love the print for a big bag.

I cut out my fabric and started sewing, but as I got to the part about adding the top bands and handles...it wasn't making sense. Turns out, this book is sorely in need of an errata page. The directions do not work. In addition, the handles would be way too small (and I am a stick-armed lady) and just attached to the band and not the bag itself. That seems less than sturdy to me, so I re-cut the handles to be 3 inches longer  and then jerry-rigged the whole business to finish up the bag.

I love the way it turned out, though it was a challenge to figure out each step as I put it together. I also added a liner because I made it out of cotton and not linen, and I like the clean look without seams inside. Plus, this adds a pop of color to a simple bag. Lots of slouch and gathers, which is new and fun for me. I can't wait to gift it to my friend!