Finished a project .... mostly

I finally finished a comforter cover that I was working on for my Dad. Unfortunately it doesn't count as an old project since I only started it in February. I need to make sure that it's the right size (I had his old one to measure and go by), and then I can make the second one. The new machine did great. I used a triple stitch for the seams (so he hopefully can't tear a seam open), and then serged the seams to keep them from fraying. I used velcro for the opening. I had thought of maybe using buttons, but the iron-on velcro was easier.

Next on the list ... I have to finish matching bag purses for me and Kelley in time for a sci-fi convention in two weeks. They are denim with silver stars and silver strap. I need to sew on gold buttons that look like stars and moons and put a gold cord on for the closure.

I'll start taking some pictures of these things. It'll be good to see my progress in pictures.

So ... What Is the Plan?

Now that I have my machine, what am I going to do with it? Well, other than try to finish some of the UFOs that I have sitting around, I'll come up with some new projects. I'm thinking I'd like to quilt and sew primarily, but I also like polymer clay and I'm starting to get into beaded jewelry. So, maybe I can make purses and pillows and quilts and embellish them with beads? Maybe I can come up with a line of decorative pillows or purses that I can sell....

So many choices ... so much fun!!

Taking the Plunge

Well, I did it. I bought myself that new sewing machine. Now I have no excuse to put off all the sewing projects I want to get to. Right?

It's a Janome 6600 quilting machine. It sews wonderfully, with many decorative stitches. Yes, most of what I sew uses straight stitching, but it's nice to know that I can get fancy if I want to. I'm excited that it can do a blanket stitch -- I have a quilt top that I've been working on for years that has applique. I HATE applique, and to put all those pieces on by hand is just too much. But if this machine can do the blanket stitch and get these pieces on the quilt -- WOOHOO! One project on its way to completion.