The Peacock's Feather

Strawberry Sweet Bag: First Stitches

I've started stitching my "Strawberry Bag" by Wendy KC Designs.  I had some questions on the instructions and the designer was kind enough to clarify some things so I guess I'm ready to go.  I've basted some of the fabric (didn't get the smaller piece basted for the accessories yet though) and have gotten the 328 backstitches finished on the bottom, which will form the bag and attach to the bottom.  So, now I've put in my first stitches. 

 

It's a fairly long piece of fabric, so I counted by sets of 25 to make sure I have the correct number of backstitches. 

 

And here's a close up of my first few leaves and what will end up being a strawberry when I finish my Queen Stitches.  I used to not enjoy Queen Stitches very much, but they've really grown on me and I love the effect.

 

Since I know it's going to take me ages to finish the bag, I've pulled out a smaller project as well.  This is from an older JCS ornament edition.  It's Mary Garry's Cabin.  I've had it kitted up for ages, and here are  my first stitches.  I will probably not finish it as it is shown in the photo as I don't hang stitched ornaments on my Christmas tree.  I thought I might make it into a cushion or a pinkeep.  But, first to stitch it!

Finished!

I've finally finished my bee skep.  This is just a quick photo.  I hope to take some better ones.  The light wasn't right, so the linen looks washed out.  You can't see the bees wings either, but you get the idea.  I'm happy with how it turned out and want to frame this one.  It's even mistake free, which is always a nice feeling.

I've got a few designs pulled out and am deciding which to stitch next.  Something small I think.  And I still plan on making my strawberry bag, but I am still trying to decipher the instructions and make sure I have everything set before starting to stitch (or baste in the case--before stitching).  It's taken me most of the year, but I've finally accomplished something at least medium-sized.

Coming Soon!

I've still got a bit of stitching to do on my BOAF bee skep, but I am nearly there.  Had I not been ill last weekend, I think it would be finished now.  Oh well, I'll get there. 

I wanted to share my next project.  I recently ordered Wendy KC Designs, "Strawberry Bag with 3 Sweeties" and have been studying the instructions.  Is anyone planning on stitching this?  I have to admit I am a little confused by the instructions.  I'm not sure who to ask for clarification.  I've not yet stitched and finished a bag like this, though I know more or less how to make the accessories. 

In case anyone is working on this and happens by...my questions so far:

There are two pieces of linen--if I understand the instructions the smaller piece is for the bottom of the bag, however the illustration shows the larger piece for the bag, a few of the accessories and the smaller piece is for the rest of the accessories. 

The instructions call for basting along the short side on one side.  Which side do I choose?

I believe I start stitching on the right side and work to the left and the bag patter gets repeated four times with ten threads in between. 

Should I cut apart my linen for the accessories, or wait until I've got everything stitched?

I'm sure I'll have more questions as I go.  I also have a feeling that as I begin stitching it will make more sense, but I'm a visual person and wish there were more illustrations on how to do this.

Any help is appreciated!

Almost There!

 

Just a quickie today.  I'm almost there.  One more weekend of stitching (I hope) should do it.  I'd stitch tonight but I am feeling under the weather (lots of people I know have been sick and I am trying to fight off becoming one of their numbers).

I also ordered a new kitted design.  I can't wait to get it and have been watching the mail daily.  It may have been a market release as I expected it last week, but it has still not appeared.  I'll share when I get it!