What? No replies? Yes, I did, but I didn't have nearly that many projects lined up. I had a big project to do, though - making a weighted blanket for my grandson. Those types of blankets are great for calming down a young child who can get agitated quickly, but they are super expensive. A crib-sized runs $120-150. I made one for about $20. My grandson's has a top made from Thomas the Train Engine cotton (50% off at Joann's at one point), muslin for the bottom (30% off at Joann's), and batting (for which I used a 50% off coupon), and then a 20% off my purchase coupon. I had to buy the weighting beads online, however, as they were WAY too expensive at Michael's. Had to buy a lot, but I figure I can use them for a lot of other things. Anyway, making that blanket took me a long time, as I did the type where the beads are inside the blanket, between the top and the batting. I found the directions online.

Since this project, though, I am back in the sewing room after a long hiatus. I'm working on a birthday present for my almost-4-year-old granddaughter: a Minnie Mouse "dress up play" dress.

Donna

I am finally getting to making victorian style throw pillows, bought the fabric and trims over the summer but never found the time to make them. Winter is a great time to catch up on my sewing, in the warmer months there is too much to do outside. Now that the holidays are over, I managed to make some new valances for my kitchen (bought that fabric almost a year ago) and am finishing up the throw pillows. Next up are bedroom valances. It feels good to finally get at my sewing projects.

Finished the Minnie Mouse dress (it turned out adorable!) and a fleece poncho, both for my now-4 year-old-granddaughter (who loved both). The fleece poncho was an Olaf print.

This morning I cut out two major projects. One was a Dr Seuss vest for me, for Read Across America Day. The other were new cushion covers for the outdoor patio furniture. (Between 5 years of sun and the recent rains, sun rot and mildew "got" the old slipcovers.) Once again, I got a steal of a deal on the fabric with a coupon from Joann's.

After cutting out, I sewed 6 bean-bags for my classroom using leftover Olaf and Dr Seuss fabric, then did all but the hand-sewing on the vest.

Donna