Small running lines

For some time I have been dabbling with Sashiko embroidery. Sashiko is a type of Japanese folk embroidery. It is a basic running stitch creating a patterned background like the kantha embroidery. The Japanese word 'Sashiko' means little stabs and refers to small running stitches used in this form of needlework. Similar to kantha embroidery, Sashiko was used as a form of darning to repair or add strength to worn areas of clothing or to insulate garments. Due to its beauty and durability, it has become a form of art. Generally, it is done on indigo cotton fabric. So I have tried it on a potli bag using this method.

I have combined it with another printed fabric to give it some body and colour. How do you like it?

The other day, I was in a mood to clear my fabric stash as it had turned into a huge unmanageable bulk. Bunting came to mind. It can be hung on the doorway to give a festive look or it can be arranged on the wall to stimulate the monotony of the decor. I have used different colours from my stash. See how it looks!!

See my latest birdie fluttering its wings happily in my daughter's car.

This is a make-up pouch made for my elder daughter. The minimum embroidery makes it very adorable.

Through these acts of creating things, I find solace and peace in the small moments of everyday life. So relish the small moments of life and celebrate it in your own way.

Till then......

Two inspiring guests.

A little bird, with plumage brown,

Beside my window flutters down,

A moment chirps its little strain,

Then taps upon my window-pane

--Paul Lawrence Dunbar

Yesterday I noticed these love birds sitting on my balcony railing, warming each other to shun the rain drops from their plumes. My daughter captured this moment and the idea of the birdie series came to me. I thought of making small gift items with chubby birds.

This red one can sit independently and can be hung as a car mobile.

The fat sparrow was grabbed immediately by my daughter and she fixed it to her key ring. Not a bad idea!

I have a plan to make a whole line of birdies with printed fabric to use as wind chime. See, those young sparrows gave me such an inspiration.

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During my stay in the US, I had made a laptop cover for my elder daughter. I did a light embroidery on the pocket of the cover. I found the fabric in my fat-quarter stash. 

The second attempt at making a laptop cover for my younger daughter was a nice try. I did an elaborate embroidery of two dancing figures sketched by her.

The third mac-cover turned out to be perfect with bright color combination and vintage embroidery. I decided on using a single color thread to synchronize with the fabric.











I love making these kind of bags to serve all purposes. Hope to make many more for all needs.

The last is this remaining CD coaster. I have used quilt pieces on it. See, how bright it looks













I think monsoon brings lazy afternoons for everybody. So take out your magic-box and create some potion to change the dull time of the season.