Thursday, October 16, 2008

JUST FOR FUN



I always check the remnant bin when I'm at Jo-Ann's Fabrics and Monday's shopping trip was no exception. Some folks don't like left-over odds and ends of fabric, but I was raised using them. A short piece of fabric says something to me. In its original state – yards and yards of whatever fabric – it was suitable for grand projects, but in its reduced state, it can be something totally fun. That piece of pink chenille I found in the bin – less than a yard – begged to be a stuffed animal (or maybe even two). Suddenly I knew what I would do this week as the bear(s) inside the pretty pink roll of fabric begged to come out and play. I found the appropriate pattern (on sale, of course) and took my "bear in waiting" home with me.

But – the work had to be done first. I was up early Tuesday morning to embark on taking down and laundering the window valances, washing windows and blinds. It was anything but fun and the chenille fabric roll kept calling to me while I worked. By afternoon I was able to start working with the fabric. Having such a strong desire to become a bear, the fabric sewed up quickly. I was able to cut two bears from the chenille. Yesterday I had to make a quick run to Jo-Ann's for thread, and yes, I checked the remnant bin again, coming up with a lovely yard of pink knit embossed with roses. "I want to be a bear, too," it cried to me. So, I'm now on my third bear.

Yesterday our new Samsung television set was delivered and Mike set it up. The LG we bought last year we boxed up and will take to the farm. Since Mike was working in Nellie's space, she rested from the morning hunt in the laundry room. Later she asked me to move the pillow back to her spot in the living room.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Your bear is adorable!!! I'm so impressed with your housekeeping work--I should do the same...

Ann loves the remnant bin, too. I, however, can't resist fat quarters--even smaller chunks of fabric, and much more costly!!!

Hallie said...

Those are very nice bears. You did a great job! I hope you find a cute nose and some eyes for them.

I wish there was a good way to clean those blinds. Having rented and moved my fair share, I've tried everything for a quick solution--I've even tried taking them down and soaking them in the tub. Alas, truly the best way I've found is sudsy ammonia and a rag with some good ol' elbow grease. *sigh* Now that the windows are closed for a season, I really should do the same.

Kathy said...

It's hard for me to keep on track with the housework. I'd rather read or sew or crochet. And such projects contribute to the clutter in which I live. The blinds are a real problem. I have found that I must clean each and every slat individually. I worked hard and I would hate for anyone to examine them too closely. But I don't know what would be better because I'm a believer in window treatments that can be cleaned. This is a dusty spot. Anyway, yes, the bears will have eyes and noses and perhaps other embellishments. They are "shelf bears," not toys, and will go with us to Denver as Christmas gifts. KW

Hallie said...

I like that it looks as if he already has a nose by the way the seam comes together. They really are cute--they'd make neat PEO contributions, I bet.

Kathy said...

Yes, they would be good for the upcoming P.E.O. silent auction, but I haven't decided about that. Two are going to Denver, perhaps the third to Boise. I haven't decided. I resisted the urge to cut out a forth bear this morning, even though she was calling to me from the fabric. One of them is going to wear a vest that has "Hannah Montana" on it.