In January of 2017, I started a block of the month quilt and while it is still in progress, I haven’t looked back. In 2018, I started streamlining my crafts and focusing on quilting and sewing. I get a lot of energy and joy from sewing and so I naturally want to share, even though I know my work isn’t particularly special. I enjoy seeing other’s work, too. So, how about a roundup of the things I finished in 2018. (There is still plenty that was started.) Some of my finishes will look familiar, others I’m sharing here for the first time.

Dazzling Pineapple Block Study

I made this one to see what tying a quilt with sequins and beads would look like. It was an itch that I had to scratch. I like it! I started a larger pineapple quilt, but chose such snazzy colors, I don’t want to finish it with sequins—it would be too much. That quilt top is completed, but it needs to be basted, quilted, and bound. See my post about the mini quilt here.

 

Daughter & Mom Matching Dress & Shirt

This one has been on my “to do” list since my daughter was born. I loved how they turned out and I especially love the fit of my Grainline Scout Tee, which I’ve worn several times. However, my daughter wore her dress for the first half of a day before changing into something else. What can I say? Kids are fickle, but I’m still glad I made these! See my full post on this project here.

 

Welcome Blanket Quilt

This quilt was the quickest I think I’ve ever made anything of this size (approximately 45″ square). I couldn’t dawdle, though, because there was a deadline to participate in the Welcome Blanket project. I love how this quilt came out and how simple it was to make. The hardest part of giving away a quilt anonymously is that you don’t know if it’s being used and if it’s bringing the comfort you imagine and hope it will. Read more about this one here.

 

Repurposed Handkerchiefs

I don’t know if this one really belongs on this list, but it took me just about a whole day to stitch up these handkerchiefs fashioned from an old bedsheet. And, I was just hemming each side! It’s a reminder that not all sewing is glamorous, but it still has purpose and is enjoyable. Read more about the “why” and “how” here.

 

Sea Glass Pop Mini Quilt

This 5” x 7” quilt went to the 2018 Secret ArtWorks fundraiser that raised funds for ArtWorks, a local organization that promotes arts in this area. The title came after a brainstorming session with my sister and expresses how the trio of orange triangles pop like pieces of sea glass on a beach. (If you look closely, the light blue fabric has a sand dollar print and the dark blue fabric has a seaweed-inspired print.) Again, this quilt I gave away and I have no idea how it was received!

 

Library Totes

This year, I joined my local chapter of the Modern Quilt Guild. In November, we exchanged names for a gift swap. I decided to make a tote—um, my first one! I purchased another member’s pattern from Craftsy. (Unfortunately, I can’t find the pattern anymore. Craftsy just went through some major changes.) I decided to make two simultaneously. This project highlighted the fact that I am very much a batch sewist. If I’m going to take the time to sew up one thing, I might as well make two, because, really how much more effort will it require? I have the supplies and tools already out! Ha!

I loved making these. I gave the green/blue triangle tote to my fellow member and kept the bird one for myself. It works very well and I see myself doing more bag making.

 

Zipper Pouches

In fact, I’ve already done more bag making! After finishing the totes, I had a little bit more time dedicated for sewing, so I whipped up a zipper pouch using a pattern by Sotak Patterns. I was amazed at how easy it was! So, I decided to make 10 more. Batch sewist, indeed! I had my young daughter help pick out fabrics and choose who got each pouch for Christmas. It was a fun project and, again, I see myself making more bags!

Now, on to tackle my 2019 to-make list!