Monday 22 November 2010

Russian Doll Pillow

Here is the pillow I sent Michaja for the Pillow Swap.  I started with stitching the Russian doll, as I knew from looking at my partner's blog that she liked these dolls. And then I got stuck...

until I went to the craft show and found the perfect charm pack with the right colours in it.  And away I went, stitching squares together to make a border for the doll.  The blanket stitching was the work of my fab sewing machine.  I love being able to do that so easily and neatly.  It really does look hand stitched.  I couldn't resist adding a little yoyo to her hair!

I had a bit of fun with the pillow back.  I aways like to add a pretty back just in case the front isn't to someone's taste.  This way they have options, and options are always good.  And clearly my swap partner likes ric rac so that was a good choice.  A few blue spotty buttons to go with the spotty back and that was it.

Swaps are fun when they go well, but rather nerve wracking when they don't quite go to plan.  Anyway it turned out well in the end and I was happy to send off my pillow.  It's nice to think that it is all the way across the ocean living in a pretty French house with Michaja and her family. 

22 comments:

Kirsty @ Bonjour Quilts said...

Gorgeous! Well done!

Jane said...

It's absolutely beautiful, I love it, especially the yoyo in the doll's hair! x

Jille said...

Your cushion is gorgeous! The colours that you have chosen are lovely. My Mum and Dad bought my machine for me when I was first married (almost 22years ago)I didn't realise machines could do such things as blanket stitch, blimey I've led a sheltered life!
Jille x

Croap Queen said...

Lots of lovely things to look at as usual Sarah :-)
Jo x

melissa said...

Gorgeous stitching, i bet she loves it!

Anonymous said...

I am sure she will love it -- I know I would

Elderberry-Rob said...

The cushion is really lovely, I like both sides! I have blanket stitch on my machine but didn't know it could look like this in craftwork! must experiment a little.

The Patchwork Heart said...

Your cushion was beautiful ... love the red and white! Oooohhh I hope minbe turns out so well!
Heather x

sallgood said...

Just adorable!! You do such a wonderful job with all of the cute details!

Heidi said...

Your pillow was tops to me sooooo cute I love how you did 2 of them!

Bev C said...

A great swap.Both cushions are stunning.
Happy Monday.
Bev.xoxo

Cat said...

I'd be VERY pleased to receive this pillow. It is fantastic! A job well done

Deb said...

What a gorgeous pillow. And I love the Bliss you used...it's my fav fabric at the moment and I have just ordered a whole bunch!

Lululiz said...

Oh you clever old thing, it is gorgeous!

Wendy said...

What a beautiful pillow! Did you have a pattern for the Russian dolls or did you draw them yourself?

A garden just outside Venice said...

Why did Lizzie tell you "old"????!!
You exchanged such thoughtful swap parcels!
xxx

Unknown said...

I love it, such a beauty and the pattern of the fabric you used as well compliments her so well, Well done.. Dee ;-) x

Michaja said...

And I can tell you in real it's even prettier!!!! :)
Unfortnately I will not be able to make a post about our pillow swap before next week!! But it will come promised.
xxx
Michaja

dutch sisters said...

What a super cute pillowcase you made for Michaja! The red stitchery baboushka, the colorful fabric border, the back with the buttons....its all beautiful. Well done Sarah!

Naturally Carol said...

Lovely cushion, beautiful colours, gauranteed to be treasured for years to come! I am going to become a follower of your blog in a minute, I like the type of sewing you do, it is an inspiration to me.

Naturally Carol said...

PS...did I really spell guaranteed like that! Sorry.

roseroomnz.com said...

Gorgeous! Rachaelxo