My sewing room has had a pair of second-hand drapes gracing the window ever since we moved here eight years ago. The sun has done a good number on them (even I was astounded at how much damage had been done!!). So.....being that my first love is crazy quilting, of course I HAD to create something that is crazy quilted!
Behold....
A valance!!
Crazy quilted - entirely using the sewing machine. No hand embroidery at all! I wanted to see what the (albeit limited) 'fancy' stitches on my machine would look like in a crazy quilt and this was the result.
Off topic, but most of you have figured out how my mind works by now and won't be the least bit surprised! Anyhoo.....I've been binge reading a couple of book series and thought I'd share the details with you in case you're looking for something new to read. The first series is the 'Mitford' series written by Jan Karon. It follows the life in a small town centering around the local priest (Father Tim). I have read them all and have thoroughly enjoyed every one. Your local library likely has them, or can easily get them. The other series is by Patrick Taylor and, once again, is centered around a small town in Ireland and follows the life of the local doctor. The series is 'An Irish Country Doctor'. I would highly recommend both authors if you like a nice light, but very entertaining, read. You get caught up in the characters and really want to find out what happens next.
Very clever!
ReplyDeleteActually, I am not disappointed in the least bit, Mary Anne. Your window valance is a beautiful creation. Such a clever and beautiful idea. The machine stitches enhance your pretty. Love the black bordering each piece and the triangular shape finished off with the tassel is perfect. Your pretty runs rings around any old store bought fabric, any day. I can just see the sun shining through your valance. It would be bejewelled with dancing colour. AND....another fabulous quote. You do find the best quotes!
ReplyDeleteYour valance is most striking. Great use of those stitches. I’ve never ever used the pattern stitches on my poor old Singer machine, and probably never will ..... although I know what will happen now, having said that I probably will soon! But nothing planned at the moment!
ReplyDeleteBarbara x
You don't have to apologize! I think putting beauty in practical applications is an art form.
ReplyDeleteVery beautiful work.
I'm playing catch-up on my reading. Will make more comments on older posts later. I do like the machine stitches for some crazy quilting - works for me especially when time is in question. You did a good job. Really interesting posts. I will explore them more fully soon. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteOh Wow! Your valance is beautiful. I have to admit that I haven't used most of the decorative stitches on my machine and there are A LOT of them. Bet you had fun making this valance.
ReplyDeletexx, Carol
Not disappointed at all! I think it's fabulous!
ReplyDeleteHa...ha...great fun! How lovely - no disappointment here!
ReplyDeleteLovely valance and how fun to use stitches your machine creates. Lots more fun links and ideas your have offered us. Time is all we need now...xo
ReplyDeleteLovely way to make a lovely valance!
ReplyDeleteSorry I’m late to the party... one friend seriously ill in the hospital and another one passed away last week. Too much sad news. But on a lighter note, the valance is gorgeous! Congrats on its finish. I have a seascape valance for my bathroom window that I need to finish the seams on. The going is tough because I fused all the curved pieces. I think I’ll resurrect it and try your method! I remember reading and enjoying the Father Tim series by Jan Karon when she was Writer-inResidence for a year at the old Victoria Magazine. But I’ll have to give the Irish series a try.
ReplyDeletethis qualifies as grandiose for me, it's stunning...and very ''you'' x
ReplyDelete