Projects Archives - Page 175 of 199

Rural Jardin by French General

April 21, 2010 jennifer Quilting and Sewing

A layer cake from French General’s second fabric collection arrived in the mail last week and I’ve been looking at it ever since.

I must admit that I braced myself for disappointment because I loved Rouenneries so much. The thought was unnecessary; I’m very impressed! Here’s a peek at this beautiful new collection.

A very pretty array of cream with reds.

Followed by an equally beautiful selection of cream with blues.

Toile in three colorways.

More of the red-faded-to-pink color that was in Rouenneries.

And some GORGEOUS deep reds that I’m loving.

This pretty selection of dusty aquas.

And this STUNNING group of deep blue.

I think this is my favorite print in the entire bunch. It comes in red, aqua and beige as well.

There are also some beautiful solids.

I was unable to find any at my local shops, but I know that this collection also includes an incredible selection of wovens, particularly plaids. The few I’ve seen are amazing. I wish I had a layer cake or some charm packs of the wovens as well. Simply beautiful!

Once again, French General has done a great job. This line contains all of my favorite colors: red, white, blue and aqua. Lots of pretty florals that call up memories of dresses from many years ago. And although I don’t have pictures, that adorable little design along the selvage is on every bolt again. Good thing! I really like that touch. I hope it’s part of their signature style.

This lovely group is my next project. I’m so excited to see these incredible prints work together. Nice work, Kaari! You’ve done it again!

Hopeful Homemaker

3 comments fabric

Wicker Rocking Chair

April 19, 2010 jennifer Decorating

Last year I promised myself a place to read beneath the cherry tree when it blossomed in the spring. I cannot explain how much I love this tree. Its branches have gone from buds to blooms in just two days, so today’s task was to keep my promise to myself.

A couple of years ago I picked up an old wicker rocking chair for $5. It’s been used here and there, but most recently it’s been sitting in the basement. Not much to look at.

The wicker table was a thrift store find.

A trip to Home Depot yielded three cans of Rustoleum spray paint in Spa Blue. It reminds me of a piece of Pine Cone Hill furniture, or an Adirondack chair out of a catalog.

It’s just what I was hoping for. I’m pleased with the results. Don’t you love what a little paint can do?!

I know where I’ll be sitting when the little ones enjoy a backyard picnic tomorrow!

Every spring I feel like our cherry tree turns the backyard into something of a paradise. My blue wicker is the finishing touch that begs you to go sit beneath it and inhale the lovely scent of the blossoms while you lose yourself in a good book.

Wish you were here to join me!

Hopeful Homemaker Shared at DIY Day and A Silly Little Sparrow

4 comments blue, DIY

Sweet 16 Invites

April 19, 2010 jennifer Paper

I have a friend who has made such a powerful impact on my life that I hardly know how to thank her for her friendship.

One of the great gifts she has given me is the sharing of her parenting thoughts and experiences as she raises her 7 children. She, too, has 5 girls. The difference is that her oldest is almost 7 years older than my oldest. Her friendship has helped me to see what’s coming around the bend, given me many wonderful bits of wisdom to ponder and implement, and generally made me a much better mother than I would otherwise be.

Last week I had the opportunity to make 60 birthday invitations for her daughter’s 16th birthday party.

I went with something ultra simple. The invitations are 5 1/4 inches square, with a 5 inch piece of pink paper (from my old Close to my Heart stash). I used my FAVORITE punch of all time for the center.

It’s a Marvy scalloped circle punch in the largest size, 3.5 inches in diameter.

The stamps are made by Technique Tuesday . They are quite possibly my favorite stamps ever. The font is Williamsburg although I think it’s been retired. The little word “sweet” is from another Technique Tuesday set.

A little pink and brown ink around the edges of the paper and we’re done!

My friend has a talent for planning great parties, so I’m sure it will be a lot of fun and a great memory.

This was a fun project to help with. It reminded me how quickly my own girls will be headed into this stage of life. (Deep breath.)

Have a great day!
Hopeful Homemaker