Heirloom Expressions: Project Ideas

What a good way to start a new month than by talking about more project ideas. There is always something new on my mind.

Several months ago I updated my computer system. When I did this I decided to backup all my embroidery, needle and thread, and various other project and picture files. I deleted all my bookmarks and discontinued participation in many of the Yahoo groups I was a member.....most of these are on Facebook now, anyway, or have a Blog. Never really contributed much, but enjoy reading the snippets and looking at the posted pictures for ideas.

My problem is that I have way too many interests and more ideas for projects than I will ever see to fruition. Just don't think I will live that long. Anyway, while I was in the working world, most of what I made was gifted to family and friends and made for my girls, which left me all the sample tries from crochet, knitting, cross stitch, sewing, hand embroidery, machine embroidery, beading and lots of crafts. Now, not being one to throw away good materials and reference books, most of which could be considered "vintage", I am back to looking at how to incorporate these bits and pieces into new products.

One of my interests in years past was silk ribbon embroidery and crazy quilting. The finished pieces are not very large, and I like to incorporate different techniques and mediums into my work. Now mind you, I am not an artist....have had no professional training...what I have learned is from sharing information, many trips to the library and used books stores and from various magazine subscriptions. The Internet opened up an entirely new resource. So, in setting up my computer system, I decided to limit my selection of idea sources to the quality sites....there a many individuals in the sewing, quilting and crafting world who love to share. One of my mainstays has been the CQ Magazine. I am happy they still have a site online and I have a few of their subscriptions on CD. (Wish I could post a picture, but I can only provide a link to their Home Page.) An avid crazy quilter I have been following for many years is Maureen. She has some beautiful pictures on her blog: Maureen's Vintage Acquisitions.

I found a Pinterest site with many more pictures of beautiful creations incorporating embroidery, quilting and other techniques: Crazy Quilt Ideas

Now, I could make more samples, but my aim to use what I have to produce a nice product, so I am thinking I will make some fancy pincushions, small handbags, stuffed animals, more sachets, and, oh my goodness when will I have the time to do all these things when I still have unfinished quilts to make!!!!