Less stressful = more successful!

After I calmed down, my attempts at creating a mug rug worked slightly better!

I can't figure out how to rotate the picture, but at least it looks better than it did (and it looks better than the back)! I think the thread was too thick, as it kept catching at the back and looks thicker than my other thread. I hand sewed the bias tape on in the end, which was much easier.

I've also started on another cushion after the success of the last present. I hand stitched the hexies, then used the machine to add borders. Had a slight problem with the order - must remember to put the shorter pieces on first, or it's much harder to add on the longer edges! You may be able to see the pins still holding on one of the edges.

I also needed to finish off the next baby cushion, as my nephew Harry has now arrived!

I'm going to stitch the letters on using the blue thread, then I was thinking about stitching an outline in yellow around the whole name? I decided to add a label too this time, as it's not such a rush job. Can't wait to go see him with this!



Pride comes before....

After a very stressful few days in work and at home, I decided to spend today getting on with making a few more Christmas presents, including a coaster with some gorgeous Michael Miller fabric.

So far today:

I couldn't remember how to thread the bobbin. Admittedly, I've only had to do it three times before, but I probably should have remembered more! Eventually solved that, then...

I couldn't seem to sew straight lines! I kept getting bunches of thread underneath the fabric, and the seam ripper got LOTS of exercise this afternoon.

I cut the wadding to the wrong size.

The bias tape got caught in the machine and ripped.

And finally - I've just snapped the needle and can't remember how to replace it!

I think that I really need to stop at this point and carry on in a few days when I'm less frustrated with other things. Usually I love playing with crafty things when I'm stressed, but maybe I'm not yet competent enough to use the machine when wound up!!

As a side note - I know a bad workman blames his tools, but could it have been the thread? I was using Guttermans thread from Hobbycraft, which is identical to the other threads I've used - but maybe when I picked up the new colour it was a different composition? Any advice will be gratefully received!

The Sewing Machine has landed!

I have a sewing machine!!!! It's a 1960s Singer in a baby blue case - I'm in love!

The first project that I've ever made with a sewing machine:

After a bit of tuition from a lovely friend (in return for dinner and Fizzy), I made a coaster and a mug rug for a birthday present.

Now I just need to be able to work the machine by myself - I nearly threw the bobbin out of the window last night in frustration!