Monday, April 16, 2007

An assortment of purples makes a little bit of nonsense

I did promise you some of my charity shop treasures......................
It's going to take me some time to dismantle all those shirts, blouses and skirts but this selection of purples is a start. The one second from the right is a pale turquoise and white with a really pretty sparkly mid purple over check - very sweet. More colours as the scissors allow
When we were away last week I went into one of those touristy shops in Hay-on-Wye and spotted some very simple stuffed fabric hanging hearts made from a single pretty flowered fabric with a hanging ribbon and a little button and bow in the notch of the heart. These spectacularly simple hearts were retailing for £10.50 (about $20) - yes that took my breath away too. Of course as is always the case it's whatever the market will stand regarding pricing, and Hay does get a lot of affluent London weekenders particularly in May for its famous Literature Festival, but I brought home the idea.
On Friday I made one for Nigel's little niece for her third birthday to slip in with her presents - there's no photo of this as the camera was with him and I needed to catch the post. However Louise then said those immortal words - "That's nice, I'd really like one of those Mummy........"
So here's her own particular little bit of nonsense. What a great way to use up all those bits of wadding I've been saving after cutting away the surplus before binding quilts - can't we always justify hoarding :o)
Quilt group again today so I have to dash to iron some more leaves and tulips to take with me for my table runner ............. see you all later...............

12 comments:

YankeeQuilter said...

What a nice idea for here door! The price the stores charge for handmade things does floor me sometimes. I'm sure she appreciates it more knowing you made it yourself.

Joyce said...

The hearts are so cute. I visited Hay-on-Wye in the early 80's and was very impressed. What's not to like in a town full of books?

Ruth's Place said...

I love the heart, and it looks like a lovely lot of fabric that you scored.

Juliann in WA said...

hi Anne
I have visited your blog a few times and I saw that you have found Leanne's house so I came back today and I cannot believe you mentioned Hay on Wye! We are planning a trip to Britain and this is one of the places I want to visit. How fun. Love your fabric finds.

Libby said...

What a great way to use up the extras - isn't it amazing what folks are will to pay?

Fiona said...

Shocking prices! And I'll bet yours is much nicer anyway. I'm amazed that you managed to find co-ordinating charity shop finds all in one go.

Mrs. Goodneedle said...

Precious little heart. I always think... "I could make that..." but then I rarely do. I'm glad you did! It looks so sweet hanging on the doorknob, I'm sure it makes yur daughter happy.

atet said...

What a great little heart and a perfect way to use up odds and ends. I can't believe what they charge for some of these things either. Several (oh my, more than 10 now) years ago I did something similar with Christmas ornaments I saw -- they were charging $5.00 each. I think I ended up making them for less than $1.00 each and gave several dozen away!

jenniebeth said...

Sounds like a very nice trip! And I love the little quilty heart...It is a homey touch, I think. Looks like you found some wonderful purples...I'm not sure I would have that much patience..much easier just running to the lqs..but I'm sure a lot of the fun is in the hunt for the right material.

Tanya said...

That's a great idea! Yes, I know, there are things I've said "What I can make that for a tenth of the price!" but too often although I CAN, I never do. I'll try to remember your heart the next time I need a little gift for someone. What do the words say?

ForestJane said...

That little door hanger heart is so cute... I'd even be tempted to add some lavender or potpourri to it, and giving them away as closet fresheners. ;)

Lily Mulholland said...

What a cute idea Anne. Hmmm...there's a nice little side business for you!