Cut and Stitch

I am becoming an expert at utilising the incy-wincy windows of opportunity in my days ie the little snatches of time that do not require me to housekeep/cook/look after offspring. I am learning to act fast when these windows open and get busy very quickly. It means that the chosen activity takes on a bit of a frantic, frenzied feel to it as I am compelled to work at speed. It's exhilarating and frustrating in equal measures.

Take today for example. An after lunch window created by Little B being away in the Land of Nod. I had a sudden and overwhelming impulse to be creative with fabric, to cut and stitch and make something lovely. The frustrating thing is that my kit is not easily accessible, so the simple act of creating with fabric becomes rather complicated. But today I felt so determined, I really would not let anything stand in my way. I crawled into the attic eaves to pull out my box of fabrics (above) and the crate containing my sewing machine paraphernalia. I set up a temporary workstation at the end of my bed, using the ironing board as dual purpose ironing/cutting/sewing table.

I manged to locate my cutting mat, clever ruler thingy and rotary cutter, scissors, thread and bobbins and I was all set.

I spent a very happy hour playing with fabrics, pulling out crisply folded fat quarters, steam ironing them and gliding my cutter up and down to create 2.5 inch strips.

A bit of trimming, some happy fun arranging the strips and playing about with the colours, ooooo just look how vibrant this is going to be, my heart is all skippy and excited and then BANG. Window slams shut. It's all over.

Little B awakes from his nap all warm and cuddly and scrumptious and in need of big cuddles. My sewing window is no longer open. Sigh.

6pm and dinner is finished, I've cleared away and cleaned up the kitchen. Little B is having some time with Daddy, the Little People are playing out in the street on their scooters and....ah ha!!! I see the window has unexpectedly re-opened for me, and I guess I've maybe got just 30 minutes before it closes again. So I rush upstairs, quickly set up my sewing machine and there begins some frantic piecing and stitching of colourful strips.

Pheewwwww. That was fun!

Tomorrow I'm hoping to snatch some more time to conquer my irrational fear of zips. This stripy, patchy article needs a zip and I am going to Make It Happen. Can't wait to show you!!

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Comments

[jen]

That was to be an "attack"....not an attach. Aaargh!

[jen]

I had the same attach today....MUST.CREATE. with fabric. I stole my time in 20 minute increments, in between other things. Can't wait to see what you created!

[Naomi]

I sooo feel for this! I've just completed my latest hooky blanket that shouldn't have taken any time really but has actually taken nearly 2 months due to a lack of 'open windows'! I love my time with my baby though so I'm not really complaining :)

You can find my blanket on my blog if you like as I've just posted it and I've credited your joining tutorial as it revolutionised my life! :-D

Can't wait to see your new creation! xxx

[verónica]

It happens to me all the time and I only have one son! Love the combinations of fabrics!

[Lee]

Wonderful cheery bright colours can't wait to see the finiished creation.I too have a fear of all things to do with putting in a zip lol.Been to quilting tonight we had a great time.hugs x

[Alma]

Lovely fabric!!! I would love to try handmade fabric thingies ... I know when you are inspired you are determined. Those "windows" are great but few around here. I sit here typing with my left hand and my three year old princess asleep in my right. It is now 6pm. Dinner not ready. Oh well, i enjoy the moment. I only wish i had my crochet project... in the other room sitting unattended. Till then i will stay tuned on your new creation....

[Caroline]

Whatever you make, I know it will be beautiful!

[violetsrose]

Do tell where you got those beautiful pink and blue fabrics with the big roses on the right of the picture. They are gorgeous!

[diana]

A pillow cover, maybe? Can't wait to see your ta-da moment. ;-)

[Jennie]

Good for you making such good use of your 'windows'! Looking forward to your ta-dah on this one! :)

[WoollyBudgie]

You have lovely fabrics! Looking forward to seeing what it becomes! I know all about taking those precious windows of opportunity!

[Crochet with Raymond]

beautiful! I am so excited to see the final result, those gorgeous colours are a balm for my soul!

[lynne at Textile Treasury]

OOoh, best of luck cracking zips in a small window of opportunity! I avoid them like the plague - and end up making twice as much trouble for myself in coming up with alternative 'closure' solutions.

Looking forward to seeing the finished article(s)!

[Jane]

Looks lovely Lucy - can't wait to see the finished article.

[Truly Myrtle]

Oh, I just know the feeling! I am forever catching 5 minutes here and there. It certainly does feel a bit frenzied at times :)
This little stripy number looks a little like the needlecase I've just made...a colourful extravaganza!

[Hazel]

Looks good!

[Karen Hillier]

oooh! lurve the fabrics! looking forward to seeing what it will be?!?!
Karen x x x

[Thriftwood]

Looks very interesting, can't wait for ta dah moment! Xx

[emmie and emma]

Just started following your lovely blog, I soo remember those creative windows of opportunity when my daughter was small...gorgeous colours, good luck with finishing Emmax

[Deco Cat]

Gorgeous fabrics, looking forward to seeing what you have created.

[Adaliza]

I work best under pressure too! Even though our 3 are all grown up I still only have 'windows' - an hour most days when I get home from work, usually. Can't wait to see what your patchwork will become. I finished 2 quilts last week which was so exciting - love quilts, hate zips - you're so brave!

[Jackie]

Love your fabrics, can't wait to see what you are making, I'm sure you'll master the zip
Just wanted to say how much I love visiting your blog and reading about your daily activities, it always cheers my heart to see all the lovely colourful goodies you share
Jackie

[Laura]

Oh what fun! I love sewing! I very seldom have windows for creativity in the day. I must stay up late while the kids are sleeping in order to do anything.

[delf]

Lucky creative windows.... I know these very well too, and they're always so very welcome!!!!

[angela-southern USA]

Looks yummy!Can't wait to see the finished project.I remember those frantic days well,still have some.The key is organized kits of projects to finished,if you have a wee spot to leave it all set out would be even better.Hope you find some more "frantic time" soon ;).Good luck.