Saturday, January 30, 2010

Wasabi & Ginger

Remember this quilt top? Well, I actually finished it! (I know, I'm even surprised)


It's somewhere between crib and lap sized and I've backed it with a green with white polka-dotted flannel. Super yummy.



This is the first time I've used the loop-the-loop quilting pattern. I LOVE the way it looks - so crinkly and whimsical. Once I get my new quilting extension table, this will be so much easier!

The patchwork square is 100% composed of scraps that already existed in my scrap bin. It was an exercise in whimsy and spontaneity. Did I succeed? I think so. In fact, everything except the backing was already in my fabric stash. I feel good about it.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Limoncello Update


The limoncello was done after 4 days and resulted in a smooth, refreshing bevvy.

The verdict is still out on the orange/almond liqueur. Too sweet, I think? Maybe a week or two in the fridge will do it right.

All in all, a good little housewarming or holiday gift. Now, if someone has a new home, I have about half a jar left... :)

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Reversible Napkins

Sometimes (ok, a lot of times) I get a bee in my bonnet, and this week's "bee" was to make some reversible napkins. Hopped on the bus to Peapod and made me a set.




Instantly, I was drawn to the mustard-on-yellow fabric and had to work with it. Both are Anna Maria Horner fabrics and I need more!

Super easy project for a beginner or a last-minute gift. These measure 17x17.

Friday, January 22, 2010

"Folksy Crack"

I've had a problem the last couple weeks... It looks a little something like this:


My friend called it "folksy crack," and that's exactly what it is. I made 3 batches last week, and probably ate 1.5 batches myself. The other 1.5, I had to give away, for the sake of my weight-loss efforts.

Got the recipe here, and so should you...if you can afford to have a vice.

Friday, January 08, 2010

Makin' Liquor

I have a little factory going right now. I was inspired by the abundance of lemons to make this limoncello recipe. In about 4 days, I'll let you know how it tastes.


I also made a 1/2 batch of this almond/orange liqueur (I only had 1 orange - it's the one on the left).

Oh, how I love jars and putting things in them. I will be complete when I have a pantry full of jars filled with whatnot.

Ohmygoodness, I just found this photo from this blog that I follow. Now, that's what I'm talkin' about!! Dreamy.

Thursday, January 07, 2010

Artichoke Tote

There was a LOT of screen printing happening in San Luis this holiday. I made a special run of artichokes for gifts. They turned out awesome (awesomely?)! (this is the last of the holiday screen printing, I promise)


I mean, who wouldn't want an artichoke tea towel or tote bag? Come on!

Of course, the test run would be the best image...Maybe I'll frame it anyhow. :)


*high kick*
That's a good one....

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

I NEED These

Sometimes "need" and "want" are used interchangeably, but not today, and not in regards to these sweaters.



In fact, I think one of them should be worn over my wedding dress...

(photos & sweaters from Anthropologie....I might have accidentally purchased a yellow purse from there today, too. woops!)

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

Microscope Tie

Dad loved the octopus tie so much, he wanted in on the action. Since he's a microbiologist, he got a microscope tie & hankies (he's a hankie man).


This is such a great way to spruce up an old tie!


My brother got a couple hankies out of the deal too. What a couple of trendy scientists, no?

Monday, January 04, 2010

French Press Cozy

D loved this fabric, so I made him a cozy for his French press, so it stays nice and roasty toasty.


I made sure the little piggy was featured. High-kicks for this one too! I think he really loves it.

A little velcro closure.

photo credits: DMF

Friday, January 01, 2010

Octopus Tie

This was probably my favorite gift to GIVE this year. This one got 5 (out of 5) high-kicks.

D and I went to the Bazaar Bizarre this year, and apparently octopi are "in" (squid too). D revealed his secret love of octopi and squid, and so there was no question about it, he was getting a tie. So, I took one of his "blemished" ties and gave it new life by screen printing this little critter on it. And I literally did high-kicks, because I was so excited about it.

D is not the high-kicking type, but I know he was high-kicking all over this apartment on the inside. I think the children at the hospital will like it too.

photo credits: DMF