Sewing.....

is my passion, 

I don't get my machine out often enough, I've had this machine for years, it's basic compared to modern machines, all I want is to stitch neat rows, everything else I can do by hand. Here I have cut 32 pairs of triangles all the same size from a meter of fabric.

My first task is to sew both of the sides, I make a long string of them, they are then seperated and I trim the sides using my pinking shears.

Now I turn them the right way and push the point out using a knitting needle, I'm not fussy for the points to be perfect, this does not require that amount of detail. Each one is ironed to ensure it's good shape.

Next it's a simple task to sew the raw edges to the tape leaving a gap between each one, I don't measure, once the triangle gets to the back of my machine I add another, this is done in one long piece. I then fold the triangles over and ensure it's at the edge of the tape and stitch again.

My final row of stitch is along the bottom of the tape, this seals the raw edge inside and gives strength to the bunting. A nice few hours work.

In it's final place, just to add colour to the little ones garden climbing/slide frame. It's 100% cotton so it can stay out all through winter months. We chose not to place it at the bottom as George would play with them, I've used simple drawing pins to hold them in place, so if they start to play with it and get tangled, it will release and not cause harm to the little ones. 

I really enjoyed making this bunting, I have home made bunting along my side fence, it's faded and a couple years old, it does not need replacing. I would like to do more sewing, I live in jeans, shorts and T shirts, all much cheaper to buy than make, I rarely wear a skirt or dress. When Molly was born I hoped to be able to make her dresses, she loves leggings and shorts, I also hoped to make George's trousers, but he loves slim joggers, so sadly my machine stays unused.

If I decide to make anything, I always have to have a use for it, I can't just put things together and then decide what to do with the finished item. I do like patchwork, but my desire for every join and corner to be perfect, means I'm unpicking often, which takes away all the joy. 

I am planning a new cushion for hubby, I saw lovely ones in the Chelsea Pensioners garden at Chelsea, I have buttons and his rank badge from hubbies time in Welsh Guards, I did get a red curtain sample locally, it's not a perfect match, hubby has found a site who will sell him two meters of tunic fabric, it's more than I need and expensive, but it will look good.