Making It! Week 2

Today is my turn to reveal my project for our Mini Blog Event, Making It! Lets' get this party started, Valentine!

Making It, our Mini Blog Event, was inspired by Joanne Hillestad's journey to recovery - you can read more about her story here. We are using Soulfull Shades of Pink in all of our projects - it is helpful to note that a portion of all sales of Soulful Shades of Pink will be donated to support breast cancer research.

I was inspired by the ditty: I love you, a bushel and a peck and a Hug Around the Neck Pillow! Click here to get the free pdf pattern!

This easy travel pillow will allow your loved one to rest comfortably in the chair during chemo treatment. This is a stressful time for the patient, so a hear felt project brings comfort and support and reminds them of the team they have cheering them on!

Today's tutorial is about applique!

If you are a beginner, fusible applique can be daunting.

Let's take the mystery out of this easy technique (and add a little love at the same time!)!

Start with a piece of paper backed fusible web and your shape. Trace your shape onto the paper side - NOT the bumpy side of the fusible web. Cut around the shape leaving ABOUT (don't worry here) 1/4" extra around your shape.

Protect your ironing surface with a teflon sheet or a piece of parchment. Following the manufacturer's instructions, fuse traced web to the back of the applique fabric you have chosen.

Now cut the applique shape out - right on the traced lines.

Remove the paper - I like to score the paper with a pin in the center of the shape and then gently remove the paper. Fuse shape to the right side of the project in the location you have chosen.

Now stitch around your shape. I chose to use a blanket stitch - you can zigzag around the shape. You can find so many videos on stitching technique on line.

Don't forget to visit the other blogs in this event! You will find projects and inspiration at Kate Colleran of Seams Like a Dream Design and Joanne Hillestad of The Fat Quarter Gypsy and Swirly Girls Design.

Next week - is the big reveal of the quilt (by Joanne) to benefit the American Cancer Society - Kate and I will be showing other projects with Soulful Shades of Pink and more tutorirals!

Stay tuned!

I hope you enjoy making a Hug Around the Neck Pillow for your loved one!

Keep on stitching!

Kris