Matching game

This fabric matching game is a great scrap buster! 

I have been sewing for my nephew since he was born (now 2 1/2) and I always save my scraps. I decided this year for Christmas to make him a matching game. I got the idea from one of my favorite blogs, The Cottage Home. Click here for her amazing tutorial.

I chose 10 different fabrics and cut 2  4.5" squares from each so that I had 20 squares (2 of each design)

I chose a simple red flannel for the backs and cut out 20 4.5" squares 

Next I cut 20 4.5" squares of batting, I used a very thin, fusible type. I ironed the batting onto the wrong side of the printed squares. Then placed the flannel and print on top of each other with right sides together. Stitch around the outside leaving a small opening to turn right side out. After all the pieces are sewn clip the corners and turn right side out. I wished I would have taken pictures of these steps, again see the other tutorial for a better description. Once all the squares are turned right side out sew along all four sides making sure to close the opening. 

I even made a little bag so he can keep them together and carry them around.

Jewelry Organizer

I have jewelry everywhere! In drawers, on my dresser, in boxes, in bags! Every morning when I am getting ready for work I always grab the same three pieces, why? Because they are on the night stand and I don't have to look for them...convenience. After my mom passed away I inherited her jewelry and I really loved some of the pieces, so it was time to get organized. I must say, I am addicted to Pinterest so I began to look for some ideas. I found a lot of pictures but no tutorials. So I will share with you what I made.

I went through the bags set to go to Goodwill and retrieved old picture frames.

Our bedroom is blue and brown so I chose Americana's French Grey Blue.

I did a quick sanding of the frames and then painted them all. I decided to use paper sacks as my backing because I like the look and it is a great way to recycle. I just went through my sewing stash to see what I could find, I wanted to by nothing for this project. I found two different laces and a cotton fabric that I liked. They were all white to begin with, but that was too bright for me. I decided to dye them!
I boiled some water in a small pot on the stove then added three tea bags to the water. I turned off the burner and I let the tea steep for 10 minutes. I removed the tea bags and added the pieces I wanted to dye. There is no science to the timing, I just kept checking them until they were the color I wanted. I rinsed the pieces in cold water and hung them up to dry.

I have always loved this quote by Coco Chanel so I had to include it!

When it came time to assemble I chose the tallest to add the lace to for my earrings. The two frames with the flat surface made a great place to screw in hooks to hold necklaces. Lastly I added a long piece of lace to hold some bracelets.

The positioning on the wall could have been better, but hey I'm no professional. Here is the finished product and I am proud to say I have varying my jewelry every day.