Instant Gratification

Inspired by these fabulous dish towels I spotted on Flickr user Willy-Nilly's photostream, I decided to whip up a couple myself. It seriously takes about 15 minutes to make one, and that's with junky TV (Top Model marathon) on in the background. I took four pre-cut, 4" x 4" charm squares (of course you can cut your own) and sewed them together. Then I pressed the seams flat. Then you just attach your nice fabric strip to a dish towel using whatever method is easiest for you. I sewed the fabric strip along the bottom, right side facing the towel, and then folded it up (so the right side of the strip is now facing out) and pressed it flat against the towel. Then I ironed quarter-inch seams on the other three sides and pinned everything down. Then I top-stitched all the way around. I used a zig-zag, but I think a straight stitch probably would have looked nicer. Super easy, and almost instantly gratifying. A nice gift idea too, I think.

My Favorite Tutorials

I am working on two big projects, and I'm still not finished. I hope to have some pictures later this week. In the meantime, check out some of my all-time favorite internet tutorials. (I'm sorry not to include photos, but I didn't have time to check each blog's policy on using images, etc.). I'll come back and add some more tomorrow.

V & Co.'s amazing Fabric Easter Basket at Moda Bake Shop
Inchmark's very chic Fabric Scrap Memory Game
Traditional but still awesome Canning Jar Pincushion by Suzanne's Crazy for Collars
A divine honeycomb smocking how-to on Tumbling Blocks
Crafty Carnival's precious Tooth Fairy Pillow
Among many others, Purl Bee's Connect the Dots Pillows and Party Garland
Glue Gun Annie's insanely awesome Pencil Case
The Red Thread's lovely Paper Christmas Wreath
An oldie but goody -- Artsy-Craftsy Babe's Fabric Flower Tutorial

Okay I can't stay awake any longer. I'll add some more tomorrow. XOXO