Sew Simple

     My latest project book purchase was Sew Simple (Gooseberry Patch, Delaware, OH, 2008). I found it at Jo Ann's, and went back and purchased a second copy, their last, for my Goddaughter. I was captivated by the cute pictures, simple projects, and recipes. So far I have tried two of the recipes, and four of the projects.

      I loved the Tickled Pink Drink made from strawberries and yogurt.   It is a great way to use the frozen strawberries we have from our spring garden,  much more appealing and appetizing than our usual frozen strawberries and ice cream. I throw in whatever amount of strawberries we have in one bag, so I usually get about six cups in a batch. I am the only one drinking it unless we have company, so I freeze the leftovers in glasses and pull them out for breakfast or breaks as desired.

     The Chewy Chocolate-Caramel Bars were entirely too sweet for me. If I use that recipe again I will make changes. I am thinking of trying it first in a 9"x13"  pan. Other options are cutting the chips down by half, and using only white sugar for the crumb mixture. 

     The Sling Bag was the first project I tried. I decided to add a lightweight interfacing for extra body, and this might have been the cause of my difficulties. I found it very awkward getting to the seam at the bottom of the bag. I had rumples in the seam when I was finished. I had planned and purchased supplies for two bags before I even started, so to be fair, I will do the next one without the interfacing. If that does not go well, I will give up on that pattern.

    The Drawstring Bag from the tea towel turned out well. I skipped the felt flowers on the handle, and instead added the fabric flower from the Gift Bags onto the front of the bag. I made a second bag with an old cloth napkin using fancy buttons on the tie. I added rick rack to the top of that bag, but I thought it looked a bit odd. I left both my tea towel and napkin whole, instead of cutting them, as the book recommended. The bags could be used as gift bags, panty hose bags, rag bags, knitting bags, anything that needs containing.

     I made several of the potholders, using leftover heat reistant fabric and quilt batting for the insides and backs. I added expensive buttons, but the buttons and ties gave the potholders added cuteness.  For a practical person they could be omitted.

     I have fabric, trims and twill tape to complete the Knitting Needle Roll and Tote Bag, so I will do those projects next.