first one done!

 

this is the first of 18 churn dash 10.5" blocks that are in progress.  someone asked me about the measurements....the center square is 4" cut, the corner HSTs are 4 1/8" cut, the 4 bar pieces are 4 x 2 1/8" cut....and the block comes out to......a skosh under 10.5"  at least mine did.  i'll make another and check if it's the same.  if so, then it might have to stay that way.  i did measure twice before cutting....perhaps the 40 wt thread on the spool is making the difference?  *** like many others, we're under a heat advisory today, poor air quality, index in triple digits...i'll be working out at the fitness room here today and sewing of course!  

then and now

years ago made this for my mom from a commercial pattern.  i was a sewist and a newbie quilter and decided to combine techniques.  recently the zipper needed replacing and the bag looked well used and faded.  i fixed the zipper and promised to make another...of course, the pattern got sent off to the thrift but a similar one was found.  

this is called the 'alana bag' by cat out of the bag designs.  all done except sewing on the handles and inserting the lining....it called for 1/4" foam inside which i've never used and, well, it's a pain.  just joy has a very low shank and doesn't like it either.  the rest will be done on the featherweight.  those are kaffe fassett vertical stripes and handle with that luscious magenta batik.  i think she'll like it.   *** yeah it's hot and humid here too....i've got PT early thursday but until then, i'm hibernating!