July Pincushion Challenge

This is my entry for Booga J’s June/July 2006 Pincushion Challenge. The theme was Flowers. Last December I made scarves for my sisters and mom for Christmas. One of the kimono scraps I used had the most spectacular flower print on it. Like so spectacular that it was a true act of love to part with the final product! I scanned the print before sending it off in the mail. It was the inspiration for this month’s challenge.

On the subject of kimono scraps. When the Denyse Schmidt book was published last year I fell in love with her foundation pieced scarf pattern. When I made mine I left the kimono pieces in larger sections. It was quicker to make and I liked showcasing the prints. Esther’s had some fat halfs of 100% wool suiting which was perfect. I also cut up a pair of wool trousers, one of those expensive pairs that I used to wear to work (has it really been 8 years!) and that I would NEVER fit in again.

The orange kimono fabric that I photographed the pincushion on was my find at last week’s guild auction. It happens once a year and is called the Guild Guilt Auction. Members bring in all the unused books, tools and fabrics from their sewing rooms. If it’s valued under $25 it goes in the silent auction, over $25 is auctioned off live. It’s the first one I’ve been too and I had a really fun time. I thought this kimono piece was just scraps but I loved the color and pattern, I put a bid on the ticket. After the meeting a friend asked me what I had purchased. As I went through my bag of goodies I pulled out the kimono and realized it was a full 5 yard obi! Very exciting discovery. It has a storage stain down the center. I plan to cut it given the damage unless I can get the stains out (any tips?).