Sit on a Cushion and Sew a Fine Seam...And Feast Upon Strawberries, Sugar and Cream!

I don't think I've ever made a secret of the fact that I love fabric...Especially old fabric...Vintage, antique or retro, dressmaking, furnishing, lace, or wools, tatty or perfect...I'm not fussy! ;-))

So, when faced with a project, such as curtain making, it can be difficult for me to narrow my choice down to just one textile...

Which is probably why the majority of curtains (and cushions for that matter!) in our home, end up a patchwork of more than one fabric!

If not a large collection of assorted patches...

They are at least made from two or three large strips joined together.

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Or perhaps just an edge has some interest added - Like an antique fabric patchwork border (with beaded bobbles!)

Failing that, then I'll add a pretty lining as a surprise when the curtains are pulled back.

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Two lace tablecloths where joined together here - And a pink cotton sheet was used as a lining.

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When we decided that we needed a change in our funny little back living room, as usual I wasn't going to limit myself to just one fabric!

I went for 28! Those who have visited my blog before may well recognise these lovelies. They are some of the Scheurer fabrics that I bought from Sue a couple years ago...I was always determined to use them where I could see and appreciate them everyday...And I've finally got round to it.

After cutting out the 112 large patches, I've been stitching an odd seam now and then, when I've had a moment - No real pattern to the layout, just an informal jumble of deliciousness!...Sewing time at home always seems to be very limited, as there is always so much to be done for my shop...But I do feel these have been worth the wait, and now that they are hanging in place, all I have to do is enjoy them every time I walk past.

I lined them with an antique French linen sheet to give them some weight. And I made a simple channel at the top from the same linen, which saved buying heading tape. They glide easily over the pole that we already had.

The colourful addition to this previously all white room, has meant its still a work in progress in here, whilst I decide what pieces we already own, look best teamed with the new curtains...

The green painted chest has had three different cloths on top so far (since I took this photo!)... For now I have settled on an embroidered cloth with silk satin stitched anemones around the edges.

Our large white linen covered arm chair has moved into the main living room - swapped for the wooden bench which now takes up less space in the revamped room.

A lace edged tablecloth makes a pretty 'skirt' (photographed a rather intense blue for some reason) and a quilt creates a comfy seat pad. I did mention I like textiles, right? ! ;-))

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My favourite Victorian velvet log cabin patchwork cover, softens the back of this old chair. And cushions always have their place! :)

I think things will evolve in here a little more yet, but for now we are enjoying the changes.

At last a pair of curtains for this window, that meet in the middle (don't ask! ;-)) - Time to keep cosy now the nights are drawing in...

Warm wishes,

Niki x