Sewing Projects - My Favorites!

My maternal Grandmother taught me to sew on her old Singer treadle sewing machine when I was 9 years old. Sewing was the most exciting discovery for me and I've loved it from the beginning.

Though I've completed countless sewing projects over the years, I continue to learn something new with each one. My regret is not taking pictures of most of my finished projects, though I do have a few pics of my favorites to share with you.

I blogged about making these bandana bags here. (photo credit Pam Irie)

One of my favorite sewing projects.

I made this t-shirt quilt several years back for my son as a keepsake. The t-shirts all represent something special in his life up to then. There are memories attached that won't be lost.

(photo credit Pam Irie)

for four special kids!

These Pajama Eaters each have their own personality, but they all can do the same thing.....In the mornings, they neatly store pajamas in their big zippered mouth. Don't worry, because they give them back at bedtime. Whew! ;)

(photo credit Pam Irie)

The colorful, funky half aprons shown have an overlay print on top which makes for lots of storage in the pockets. I would love to show you the bright red and white polka dot full-skirted apron I made for my mother so long ago, but I'll have to settle for the aprons I've sewn as gifts recently.

Aren't these aprons fun? (Simplicity Sew Simple Pattern 2011 is the pattern I used for the bright aprons with pockets.)

(photo credit Pam Irie)

one of my favorite sewing projects.

I take advantage of the nearly year-round tradewinds here in Hawaii to hang clothes on the clothesline. Having a colorful clothespin bag is handy and makes the job a little more fun.

Sewing projects like this don't require much fabric and only a minimum bit of time is invested.

(photo credit Pam Irie)

What can I say about yoyos?

1. Yoyos are easy enough to do at night while sitting down to watch a little television.

2. Making yoyos uses up all the scrap fabric you have around the house. In fact, it's a perfect project to cut up old cotton garments or linens that are stained and not suitable for donating.

3. ANYBODY can make yoyos. (I'm NOT kidding!) What you do with them when they're done is all up to you......table runners, tablecloths, bed covers, scarves, etc.

4. Lightweight to carry around. Take them with you when you travel, but on the airlines take an empty dental floss case to cut the thread instead of scissors.

5. Inexpensive craft to get started.

(photo credit Pam Irie)

for the Humane Society.

Twice a year I drive up to Manoa and donate several quilts I've sewn to the Humane Society. They use these 22 inch x 22 inch cage mat quilts to line the metal cages the cats are housed in. When thrift shopping, I'm always on the lookout for old quilted mattress pads which I use for batting.

These quilts for the kitties are definitely among my favorite sewing projects. The cats don't care what color of cotton fabric I use; they just like them to be soft. :) Want to make one? Here's how.

(photo credit Pam Irie)

My original pattern for this ADOPT ME vest. It's listed on Etsy, but you can read a little more about it here.

It's easy to sew in 3 pieces and pattern includes instructions for detachable clear vinyl donation pockets which are super helpful in fundraising events.

(Photo credit Pam Irie)