I’m sure nobody missed the fact that this past week was Independence Day for the US of A. For the first time in a number of years, we took my daughters down to the harbor to watch the fireworks. It was with a certain degree of trepidation, given that my youngest has some significant noise sensitivities. But, she loved it and we loved an evening with our neighbors in a great little town. I even got to bring along my tripod and camera and get some nice snaps of the show.
Coincidentally (or not?) we’re also coming up on my 1 year Anniversary for the blog, on July 13th. I’ve had rather a lot going on and haven’t gotten nearly as much sewing in as I’d like, though I’ll have my Quilt Bee quilt to share soon, I hope (preview on Instagram).
My little one has also started sessions with a new therapist (I have a point, here – stay with me), who prefers to work with her without my interference. So now I have an hour every other week to sit.
I hate sitting.
I need a new hand project. Both to feel like I’m being productive, and for the pure satisfaction of handwork. For the moment, I’m doing some bindings and finishing up a few bits and bobs. As soon as the new “Baltimore By The Sea” pattern comes out in September, it’ll be that. It was designed for the Manderley fabric line from Moda, so look for it if you have an interest.
There is an inherent joy to hand sewing. In a world of “two-hour skirts” and “super-fast, super-easy quilts,” there is space, too, for slow sewing.
Time to appreciate the hand-sewn vintage quilts our grandmothers made.
Time to recognize that faster isn’t always better. And modern isn’t always more.
So, since it’s my (blog) birthday, and I can do what I want (at least until my husband gets home), I’m going to have a little giveaway. Leave a comment, and tell me what type of slow sewing you want to explore: Applique, embroidery, or English Paper Piecing. On next Friday, 7/15/16, I’ll choose one commenter and send them a goodie pack tailored to their choice. Depending on what you pick, it might have some Aurifil thread, Cosmo floss, Tulip Hiroshima needles, Wonder Clips, and probably a homemade goodie or two (pin cushion, pouch, etc).
In the meantime, Happy Birthday, America:
And Happy Birthday, Lighthouse Lane Designs.