Homespun Cushions part II

I've had such a fabulous time this week playing with my fabrics, I've been in creative heaven. It's such a long time since I worked with fabrics, I had forgotten how thrillingly fast it all is compared to the slow plod-plod-plod of crochet. The fact that I have designed and made not one but two complete articles within a week has made me all puffed up with pride. I did it! I really made it happen and I am quite ridiculously proud of my efforts. Especially the zip thing. Wow. Me and zips, we worked out ok together, who would've thought it?

I had a huge amount of fun making my second cover. I did it slightly differently to the first one in that each 2.5 inch strip is actually pieced from two fabrics. So 16 pieces altogether instead of just 8. It made it more fun putting them together (more fabric = more fun, right?), although I have to say that I gave very little thought to what I was doing. This cushion kind of threw itself together on the floor with very little hassle and it felt right to go with the random approach.

The whole zip thing went terrifically well second time round, mostly thanks to the wonderful tips and advice that I received following my last post ((thank you lovely stitchers of the world for taking me in hand)).

So I did things a little bit differently. As advised by the super talented Hen I still used a smaller zip (14" zip for a 15.5" cover), but I stitched the seam closed at each end first, leaving a 14 inch gap for the zipper to perfectly fit into. So no holes (yaaay!). However, I did not follow Hen's advise re hand basting (sorry Hen), I just could not bring myself to be that thorough. Especially when I was told by a few of you that I could use sticky tape instead. Oh My. That was the BEST advice! I simply stuck the zip in place with tape and stitched away pin-free, it was bloomin' marvelous!

I remembered to add a little extra embellishment with ribbons this time, with rather lovely results. The fabric puckered a little as I think the tension on my machine is a smidge too tight, but oh I am not bothered about that really. I am no perfectionist, I prefer to embrace the Homespun look. Overall I am really very, very happy with how it turned out.

Mmmmmmmmmm!! I love my new cushions, they make very yummy additions to my sofa. I am surprised (and yet not really) at how my fabric choices match up so well with my yarn choices. I do have a very consistent, recognisable palette that I work time and time again, they are just My Colours I guess.

I'll be taking both these cushions to live in Connievan, but I will most certainly be making some more to stay here in the Attic. They already seem so at home here and I know I'll miss them as soon as they've gone.

I did want to say a little something about the fabrics I've used, but there isn't actually a lot I can tell you. I've been buying these fabrics little by little over a good many years and I haven't a clue what they are called or which designer designed them. I do know that the spotty ones in the bottom cushion are Kaffe Fassett, but other than that I really don't know. Some Amy Butler in there possibly? Anyone know?

The backing fabric I bought years ago, and sadly the little online shop I got them from no longer exists. All I can tell you is that they are European designs (Dutch I think?) and that I adore them.

I cannot imagine living in a house without homemade cushions, I really love making them and I really love seeing them about the place. They are an essential part of our home, well loved and well used. Looking forward to many more in my future.

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Comments

[Daniela suarez]

When i was in grade school i had a pen pal named Lucy who lived in england. Sadly we moved and i lost her address never writing back! When i read your blog I secretly imagine that she is you and I am thrilled that she shares same intrests as me!! Anyway, this is my way of telling you that clear across the sea here in sunny california you brighten my day!!

[davina]

Hi Lucy this is the first time i have ever written a comment before. I love your work, I teach patchwork and crochet, but crochet is closer to my heart.
I love the way you use colour.
Keep up the good work
vina x

[Virginia]

Georgeus color and fabric mix.Congratulations

[diana]

Thanks for the inspiration to just go ahead and create ... whatever the medium and whatever the project! It is so good for the soul. ;-)

[Annie]

Simply stunning...not surprised with the colors at all, we are drawn to what we like both in yarn and fabric

[Lisa]

That is so kewl! Beautiful work!

[Lisa G.]

I really love these stripey covers, Lucy!

[sumea]

i love them ❤
the pile of fabric and crocheted cushions together in the last image is awesome! so sweet and homely.

[Sonia]

Nothing compares to playing with fabrics ! Have fun !

[Cornelia]

Very beautiful! Bye Cornelia

[anissa]

gorgeous cushions, i love them, and i think i own pretty much all those fabrics too, i buy mine at www.hawthornethreads.com, awesome prices and the bet collection!

[Kate Dengra]

Wow! I love them - I have just been given a sewing machine and had a few lessons to get me on the way and now I feel I can tackle anything.....plus the same lady is teaching me to crochet!..........just need some more sun so I can sit outside and get busy 'doing'

[lucy]

These are beautiful, zips still terrify me, yours look perfect, like you have done a million. A tutorial perchance?, you explain everything so clearly x x x

[Helen]

Sooooooooooo envious of your fabric collection! You have some beautiful pieces. I am just in the process of stashing with aim to make bunting for home and also cushions for my caravan. You have completely inspired me to build up my stash and get going with my projects. I feel a trip to the fabric shops coming on!
Well done on your fabulous project. Can't wait to see more.

[Samantha]

Oooooooh. Sticky tape for basting? What a great idea!

[Jacquie]

Really gorgeous Lucy. I've been thinking about making patchwork cushion covers !! I have loads of fabric but it's not as pretty as yours.Patchwork was my first love and I will always have a soft spot for it. You did a great job with the zip too, doesn't sticky tape make your machine needle gluey ? Great sewing weather this week :0)
Jacquie x

[Maria]

Lucy is just beautiful in your pillows

[Lisa]

These are really lovely and cheerful, especially going into winter here - might have to whip up something similar.

[http://hindustanka.blogspot.in/]

Gorgeous cushions! I have never tried to stitch as I actually don't like stitching...But looking at your pictures and the way the cushions look, I will think about learning sewing.
Have a nice day and happy zipping and sewing!

[aussie girl]

OMG...I love that you used the "sticky tape" tip I suggested. Your pillows turned out absolutely beautifully. But I love, love, love the picture of all your pilllows stacked up! Your crochet colours choices and your fabric co-ordinates so well. Inspirational.:) Aussie Girl

[Rani]

You have mastered the dreaded zipper - no surprise there. They look perfect with your crocheted linens and things. A nice balance to all of that texture. Really really very pretty.

[Jennie]

LOVE IT! O, the ribbon is just the right touch. Yay on your perfect zipper! I would be just as thrilled as you if I had done so myself!

[Bari Jo]

Bravo! I love them! I may just bite the zipper bullet and actually attempt some myself! Love the ribbon embellishments, too! Your pillows are wonderful! I love how they compliment all your beautiful crochet!!!!!!!!

[Alessandra]

compliments for all your colourful cushions!!!
xxxx Alessandra

[Julie]

How pretty!! The second one is my favorite!!