Fractal Quilt Block

I find so much inspiration on Instagram - I still go to Flickr occasionally, but IG is full of new ideas and swaps.  I just take a screenshot, and I can scroll through my photos later to pick a new pattern or fabric line or something to discuss with other sewists.  

And I found this one day

And I went straight to Craftsy to purchase this pattern.

There are two sizes you can make your block 12" or 16" - for my first one I went with the 16" size, as I wanted to make it into a mini quilt wallhanging.

Using Indelible and a few solids.  

This was one of my favorite lines that came out earlier in 2014

This is a paper pieced pattern, which sometimes creates road blocks when you can't quite figure out how large that next piece of fabric should be

Over two nights I completed the block - I just did not have a lot of sewing time available

I love how this one turned out!

I used two layers of batting in this one, I wanted the quilting to pop off the top.  Aurifil 40 wt was used in the quilting.  

Sadly (for me) this mini is off to it's new home as a swap gift.

Keep Calm and Quilt On!

Mary 

Messenger Bag

A girl can never have too many bags.  Or totes.  Or fabric.  Or pillows.  Or patterns. Or ideas for making things.

I designed a Messenger Bag back in April and I love it, however it is just a little too large.  I made another, using the same pattern, just going smaller.  I love this one as well.

I didn't take any progress photos - I must have been in a hurry to use this Charley Harper bag!

I used waxed canvas (available on Etsy) for the bottom and side gussets, and on the back of the strap. I have started using waxed canvas on the bottom of bags so I don't feel like I can't put it down anywhere.  The waxed canvas is water proof, and I like the leathery look

The exterior pieces are canvas as well as inside the closing flap.  I prefer canvas on the exterior of bags, it is sturdier and more durable than quilting cotton.  I did use quilting cotton for the lining.  Adding a slip pocket inside, which I discovered I needed using the other Messenger Bag - a place for the phone so it isn't lost in the bottom of the bag.  

I like a good large bag that I can use cross body or hanging off my shoulder.  

I made this bag a couple of months ago and I use it almost daily.  I think it's time to make a fall themed messenger bag now. 

Keep Calm and Quilt On!

Mary