Take 5

1) I did keep going with my 'finishing' plan last week, I just didn't get round to writing anything here. I made something very practical - leggings for the girls. This is something I've been meaning to do for ages - I've got a few non cotton, thrifted fabric remnants that I've collected over recent years and not done anything with yet. Generally quite funky, retro style patterns which I couldn't resist and with some stretch - so perfect for leggings. Plus both the girls seem to be wearing out/growing out of their leggings far too fast at the moment.

There are lots of tutorials out there for making your own leggings pattern (grown up as well as children's), and once you've made a pattern (which isn't too tricky), the actual sewing is incredibly quick and easy. If you're interested try here - So Sew Easy for a tutorial using measurements, or here - Make it, Love it for a tutorial using an existing pair of leggings.

I'll definitely be making a few more pairs now I know how easy they are.

2) Venetia also had a finish, she made a cushion for a friend who had moved house and so was changing to a new school.

We used a texty fabric I've had sitting around for a while for the detail. I can't remember the name of the fabric but it has happy, positive words all over it, so we just picked out these 2 most appropriate bits of text for Venetia to cut out and then sew on to a simple heart applique.

3) Time for a photo catch up, especially as we had a lovely, sunny trip to the beach last week!

First shoes off trip of the year - it was cold still though!

This is one of my favourites! Perfect example of the differences between boys and girls! Although the girls will happily battle as well, particularly Maria who wants to be a Ninja when she grows up!

4) The sunshine had us out in the garden quite a bit too, and back at one of our favourite activities - painting fabric, and in some sunrise inspired colours. These are scraps of muslin, painted with watered down acrylics.

I think I might have a plan for what they'll now become, so watch this space...

5) I've not been too bad with thrifting recently, but I couldn't resist a little stash of miniature baskets earlier this week. They're so cute!

I've popped a couple of mice finger puppets in there as well so you have an idea of the scale. Can you see the mini doll's 'crib'? I think I'm going to have to make something to go in there as a birthday/Christmas present for Maria. And there are 2 teeny picnic hampers too - perfect for a mouse picnic set!

Sally.