Edgy :: Selvedge Pincushions

I haven't really done any sewing for a long time. Knitting is easier to work on as I'm sat on the sidelines of class, or in front of the laptop, or even on car rides. But sewing... just hasn't been calling to me.

That is, until a couple weeks ago when I was getting myself worked up into a tizz about the magazine launch and I couldn't be trusted with needles lest I ram them in my eye sockets to end the pain. Before I knew it I was pawing through the selvedge collection I've amassed, like stroking a cat. Then before I knew it I had started stitching them on batting. And it looked nice. So I did some more. They looked nice too. There was some linen close by, I grabbed it and sewed that on the edge. Sashiko thread? Why not. And within a couple days I had before me ten selvedge pincushions in a rainbow assortment and a calmed disposition and a zen-like inner contentment.

I don't need ten pincushions so they're going in my old shop. I've dusted it down and whenever I've made a few things I might start adding them again. Just to keep me in yarn and out of trouble, you understand.

These selvedge pincushions are slightly weighted to stay where they're put and not fall over, but not so weighty as to cause alarm to Royal Mail's finest. Don't worry if these sell out before you can grab one, I have a twitchy feeling I'll be making some more. At some point. Click here to grab one before they're gone.

{P.S. Don't forget to visit Ms. Dottie Angel on the latest stop on our blog hop for a review a giveaway of the magazine!}

Sneak Peeks

My latest pattern - something I've been working on for a little while - something new in a new craft :: cross stitch! Once it's got all the finishing touches I'll reveal all insha'allah.

Spinning Evolution :: The Beginning, Middle, & End

Ready to be placed in the shop in a little while. Will blog when they are in!

My Eldest Sews

After the initial success of the midget's foray into cushion making and selling, the eldest decided he wanted to make bags to sell.

The first one he made I snapped up, not out of charity, but because I actually dig it. It's small and funky, and appeals to the punk in me. Large enough to handle all the basics of keys, wallet, phone etc, and slings over the shoulder easily. A no fuss funky bag.













Since then he's received one commission and would like you all to know he can make bags in ANY COLOUR and any size, and his mama sells them in her shop. He had thought these would make excellent nature bags for when you go on adventures - you can take books and notepads and magnifying glasses, and also have enough room to bring some treasures home. But since he's seen me with mine, I think he's realised bags are for everyone.

Oh my children. This first flutter of being out there in the world all by themselves has made me realise how much letting go I've got to do in these following years. And in so much as I'd like to protect them from everything, and insomuch as they make me proud, I can't help but marvel at how painful this growing process is. Not for them, but me.

Having children, well, it's like having your heart living outside of your own body, isn't it?

Commissions

The midget has been quite busy recently with commissions for his cushions. This makes him feel very proud - to be earning money, to be able to 'pay' me for helping him (I refuse payment, just so you know, but he likes to be able to offer), to give his brother a pound or two as a gift... it has made him feel grown up and important. He really works at it too. He doesn't stop until the work is done. He makes sure all seams are sewn properly. He clips any stray thread. He is meticulous about presentation and keeping his work clean. And then the packaging must be 'just right' too.

I am impressed by his resolve. He never leaves a job half-done, and even though his brother begs him to come and play, he will not do so until his has completed the task.

If any seven year old has earned his pocket money, then this little man has. He would work all day and into the night if I let him. It's amazing to see how real work can transform a boy, how responsibility can be met and then grown into fully, how work dignifies a person.

I pray these children of mine will always be workers, and proud to be so. Amin.

Shameless Self Promotion :: Shop Open!

{Mu'Mu} is now officially re-opened! Come on in! As well as makes from my children (thankyou for pre-orders and promises of buying!!) I have managed to make a few things too...










































Bags, cushions, pouches, mitts, cowls and handspun yarn! Oh my! I feel as though I've made something with everyone in mind. There are new materials being used for the first time here - oilcloth, leather in the closures, woven cotton webbing, and I'm really pleased to be working with genuine Harris Tweed for the first time (not the last time insha'allah). I've also designed things in wool felt which looks lovely, feels lovely and I think looks very classy. Because I'm a classy lady. As you know.

Looking over the small collection of things offered here I see a shift in my work from previous offerings. I'm happy with everything here. I'm happy with the quality of the materials and the quality of my work masha'allah. I love the emphasis on design. I love the simple lines. I love the wool that seems to be working its way into everything. I definitely love these colours.

And I'm happy to offer things that I enjoy making. I might not update the shop all that often anymore, but I hope that when I do you can see the love and care poured into everything. There is nothing here I wouldn't want myself. I hope you like what you see!

And please don't forget that I have some things up on eBay too find them HERE.

(See - shameless)