Meet Sara
Pellon: Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Sara: I find inspiration from other sewing bloggers online! I am constantly finding out new techniques from others. I am also inpired by the broad range of fabrics available.
P: What does your creative process entail?
S: Usually, I will just start right in with cutting up my fabric. I will go with gut feeling on what fabrics or combinations will work for a particular project. If I’m working from a sewing pattern, I will usually read the pattern over at least 5 times so that I can visualize and understand each step.
P: Why do you enjoy sewing?
S: Each sewing or quilting project is a new challenge for me, sort or like a problem to solve. Each aspect of the process is like a puzzle piece from choosing the fabrics to each step involved, to putting your own spin on it. Sometimes a project doesn’t work out quite like I had hoped but in creating it I’ve learned something new so it’s never a failure.
P: What tips or tricks can you share?
S: I enjoy reading pattern reviews or thoughts that others have on certain projects. I’ll use the information I have learned in the past to tweak sewing patterns and make them work for me. My main tip is that sewing does not have to be expensive! Thrifted or repurposed items can also be used in sewing projects- everything from bed sheets to purse hardware from an old bag.
Sara`s Projects:
Layered Cathedral Window Block
- Block 1 of 9 in the Cathedral Window Quilt-a-Long.
- Block size is 12-1/2” square unfinished.
- Use a 1/4” seam allowance unless otherwise indicated.
- Finished quilt will measure 36“ square.
- Use Legacy™ by Pellon® 100% Natural Cotton or Soy/Cotton Blend Batting for a beautiful finish.
Cathedral window blocks are traditionally about folding and topstitching to create beautiful blocks with a lot of depth. This block uses fabrics from Tula Pink’s ‘The Birds and the Bees’ collection.
Read moreUrban Jungle Bag
This adorable bag features leather handles and accent detailing on the front and sides. With a zipper top, your essentials will not fall out. A flap pocket further adorns the front of this bag. Make several to coordinate with your outfits!
Read moreUnderwater Stripes Bag
This bag is an eye-catcher, a true statement piece! It is appropriate for a confident beginner, both at quilting and at bag construction. It also presents the opportunity to try out a few different types of Pellon® interfacing. Sample uses Robert Kaufman Kona solids in Turquoise and Pomegranate. Sometimes solids can make the boldest statement!
Read moreRed Poppy Bag
This bag showcases a large ruffled flowers on the front. It has an adjustable strap, inner pockets and a zippered closure. Sample used Laurie Wisbrun‘s Modern Whimsy fabrics and tangerine Kona Cotton. Finished size is 17″ x 17″.
Read morePlanetary Mini Quilt
A colorful mini-quilt perfect to display as room-brightening wall-hanging! Samples uses Alexander Henry Light Bright in black and Kona Solids in Turquoise, Chartreuse, and Purple. Sara used Aurifil Threads. Finished size is 28″ x 28″.
Read morePixie Hexi Wallet
Use Pellon® SF-101 Shape-Flex® to create this darling wallet using hexagons. Sample was created using Laurie Wisbrun’s ‘Olive the Ostrich’ line for Robert Kaufman. Finished size is 6-1/2” x 3-1/4”.
Read moreFylerion Bag
This bag is targeted toward sewers who are new to handbags. It features a simple and easy yet attractive design. For a handy video how-to by the designer, herself, click here.
Read moreFrou Frou Bag
This bag features ruffled flaps, snap closure and an adjustable strap. The small front pockets are three-dimensional. Beautiful detailing combines with functionality with four inner pockets to hold all of your favorite stuff.
Read moreEmbroidery-to-Go Bag
This bag is a collaboration between two stylish designers. Rachael Gander designed the embroidery pattern for the bag, which was completed and fully stitched by Sara Lawson. The square embroidery travel case features a zipper that goes almost all the way around the side panel and has a top handle for easy portability. The back of the case has a large pocket that will hold your 6″ or 8″ embroidery hoop. Inside is a sturdy 5-section divider that will hold all your carded embroidery floss, plus has extra room for scissors and other notions. Take your crafting on the road!
Read moreThe Hot Mess Casserole Carrier
This casserole carrier is the perfect companion to your on-the-go meal. It conveniently holds a 13” x 9” baking dish. Sturdy straps and an insulated lining make this bag the perfect treat for yourself, or awe-inspiring as a hostess gift. Your handmade casserole carrier will outshine any dish. Finished size is 13-1/2” x 9-1/2” x 5”. Sample used fabrics from Salt Water by Tula Pink for FreeSpirit/Westminster. [This project also appeared as Week 9 of FreeSpirit’s 12 Weeks of Christmas, 2012]
Read moreCaliti Convertible Clutch
A great multi-purpose bag! The Caliti Convertible Clutch can be used as a clutch or a tote. With this clutch’s eye catching stylish design and multiple uses, you won’t need any other bag.
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