Taking classes is a good thing. The object of the class is of interest and one always learns something new, no matter how packed your tool kit is when you enter.
I took a class earlier this week whose focus was using an embroidery machine. The project for the class was a notebook cover. I quickly realized I had a personalized notebook cover made by Sue Andrus that I brought to class — it was a gift from a friend and I had not used it because it was just ‘too beautiful.’ (Small aside here: Sue is a member of Postmark’d Art so I know her fine work — I have some of her beautiful fabric postcards.) I wasn’t entirely sold on the construction techniques used for the class project so I decided to use Sue’s notebook cover as a guide for constructing my own.
I pulled out upholstery scraps, buttons, beads, leather, several Oliver Twist collections, pellon and Wonder Under and got to work. And here it is
The inside of the front and back covers were just too boring. I pulled out a needlepoint catalog I had saved in my paper supplies and found just the right images.
Though I didn’t use embroidery or construct the project as instructed, I’m very happy with this notebook cover. I think I’ll have to stitch out a few of my embroidery designs and incorporate them in another cover or two.
This posting has been share with Off the Wall Fridays. Check out what other creative people are doing there!
I know what you mean, I have several pretty notebooks I never use, but my dog-eared red and black is always in my handbag. I’m sure I’d never use this one either.
I try to refrain from the kind of thinking that says something is too precious to use. It is, after all, an inexpensive tablet inside which, when used, can be slipped out and replaced. I officially have the original notebook in use and will gift the one I just made. Pull out one of your ‘special’ ones and enjoy it!
Great example of using inspiration to advantage. I love the use of photo from scrap collection. Quilting Arts TV just had segment on using images from commercial publications for color work studies. You are so up-to-the-minute, Franki!
Ha! This was really a matter of necessity being the mother of inspiration. I couldn’t take the thought of an ugly inside cover.
Really beautiful!
Thanks! It was fun to make too.
Hey! did you go in my stash?! I have that ceramic button, and those amber beads!! Wow, I could make something lovely like this with my stuff! Of course then I wouldn’t use it because it was too pretty.
Leeanna Paylor
lapaylor.blogspot.com
Ha! That fabric was remnant samples; the buttons I purchased about 8 years ago on a whim; I have no idea where I got those 2 beads — they are the only two I had. Get your goodies out and whip up some fun. . . use it or give it away. I gifted mine today and it felt really good.
Your cover is understated and elegant – so beautiful!
I was with you and Aileyn when I bought those fabric remnants! It was fun to use them.
Lovely..as usual.
Thank you!
Hi Franki
I think your combination of materials went very well for this cover. It is very elegant and the stitching just adds that little something. Now you have to find a special use for it!
Hilary Florence
Thank you Hilary. It was fun to create. I’ve given it to a friend who will make good use of it.