a suitcase full of memories

My Gram Davis was quite a needle-crafter... something that I can appreciate more and more as the years pass. She's the type of person that if she were alive today, I can imagine her selling at craft shows and fairs, and even, I dare say, on one or even various online venues. Because you see, she actually did make things and sold them; aprons and baby shoes and the like. Sadly, I remember very few details - I was young and paid it no mind, although I remember her making dresses and pj's for my three brothers, my sister and I.

What will I do with a suitcase full of vintage needlework patterns? Yes, I will keep them- how can I not? I am too sentimental for my own good. I take them out every now and again and sort through them, and how could I resist making an apron from one of  her patterns? I think she would be pleased that I'm following in her footsteps, enjoying these same things she liked very much to do.

As I write this post, it brings tears for the "if only's" - if only I would have paid more attention, if only I had been more interested, if only I would have listened better. You know how it goes... the questions that cannot be asked or answered. I think they would sound sort of like this; who taught you how to sew and do needlework or have you always enjoyed it since you were a little girl? Well, no matter. Besides her patterns, I have few more of her vintage (to me) sewing and crafting things, but more importantly, I have some memories.

Warm wishes,

Patti

For Baby

In 1979, a friend made me a hooded towel like this before the birth of my son. Handmade and practical, it was one my most favorite and treasured gifts. I've always wanted to make one... and so I did, for sweet little Eliana.

I didn't realize (didn't think about it, really) that it's sort of difficult, but do-able, to embroider on terry cloth. Sometimes the needle goes through a loop when you bring it up from underneath. Free hand with no pattern seemed to be the best way to go around the little pink flower buttons.

Lots of French knots (I love making those), daisy chains and straight lines are encircled around the buttons.

I made the binding with this handy little gadget from Clover, a bias tape maker. To make 1/2" binding, start with a 2" strip of fabric, run it through the gadget and press as it is pulled out the end. Complete instructions are included. 

The fabric I used was a reproduction 1940's print from J & B Fabrics, my local fabric shop where you can find loads of fabric for quilting, garment sewing and more. 

For the towel, I made a 36" square from the terry cloth and the hood is 8" across the bottom where the binding is attached (be sure to sew this on before the outside binding). Fun to make, this may be my favorite go-to for baby gifting.

Do you have 'a special something' that you like to make for baby?