Then and Now

In the early 80's, I wasn't yet a quilter, but definitely a crafter. I used to say that my hobby was 'anything with a needle' - embroidery, counted cross-stitch, household and gift items - anything I could stitch with a needle by hand or with my sewing machine.

One of the things I made in those early marriage days was a Christmas tree skirt. I loved Christmas plaid, and made this tree skirt, which our family has used ever since.

And yes, those are supposed to be holly leaves . . .

Well, the family is grown now and off on their own, and sorry to say, our tree skirt needs a little update. Plus, it has always seemed a tad too small. Sooo, this year, I've made a new one. Not in the traditional red and green, and not really in Christmas fabrics at all. But it 'fits' our living room, and I really like it.

The pattern is Wonderland by Empty Bobbin, and was a breeze to make, finishing at 45" square. The fabric mix started with some teal and green prints from Nancy Halvorsen's Jingle All the Way. Then some Silent Cinema, Anthology, and Wordplay were added in, along with some unidentifiable stash finds.

And, what may be my new favorite fabric, Starburst from Lemon Grove by Alice Kennedy.

Source: fatquartershop.com via Debbie on Pinterest

I originally had something like this in mind for the quilting, and am somewhat disappointed I got off-track, with my lines much farther apart and much less organic. oh well.

Source: google.com via Lani on Pinterest

 Unfortunately, the original sewist is not referenced - if anyone recognizes this, please let me know so I can give proper credit.

Choosing buttons was a whole 'nother story - three shops later, and I finally {somewhat} settled on these.

Anyway, off to get the tree today, and once hubby gets the lights on, we'll dress it up in its modern new skirt!

Linking up with Friday Night Sew-In, Finish It Up Friday, and Thank Goodness It's Finished Friday!