This has been long overdue. After working 7 days a week for almost a month, I had today off. So here’s what I finished today:

- Blocks for the seeing stars quilt-along. I finished the first about a week ago, the second last night, and the third today, so I’m all caught up.

I almost tore block one apart and replaced the center triangles with red, so that each block would be two-toned. But I decided to wait, as I’m not sure that’s necessary. That’s the frustrating aspect of designing as I go - planning ahead isn’t really an option. Thankfully, Amanda Jean really knows what she’s doing, so this quilt-along doesn’t have many frustrating aspects at all.

I’m also proud to announce that I’m done with my cute skirt.

Man, this pattern was easy. I think the flat-felled seams took longer than everything else, put together. Not that the pattern mandated flat-felled seams. I just think they look awesome.

There was definitely a time, back when I was doing a lot of costumes for plays, when I was tempted to rush through garments in order to wear them as soon as possible. I’m happy to report that I’m over that - I mean, if I’m going to put the time into making myself something to wear, I might as well put the extra effort into making it really special. Hence the fancy seams and the bias tape around the hem, which were totally worth the effort. I can’t wait to make another version of this skirt.

And, finally, one of the perks of working in a craft room that is essentially an irredeemable trash pit is occasionally finding some near-finished gem and finishing it off then and there. I was looking for some sashing fabric for a few quilt blocks when I ran across this cheep cheep I had stitched on a square of cotton, like, three and half years ago.

Why the heck did I not finish it then? The hemming was such a minor task compared to cross-stitching a video game character, and plucking out the waste canvas. So I made short work of turning it into a handkerchief, which matches my new skirt.

I don’t want a summer cold, but at least now I’m prepared.