Crafty lil mouse stitches: #sncaswap

I recently took part in my first secret swap on instagram and thought I would quickly share my experience with you...

I try to join in with #saturday night craft along every week. I really enjoy having a goal of making something new to share. It is great to see what projects other people are working on and maybe get some inspiration for future makes. Everyone who takes part is supportive and helpful, so when the organisers announced there would be a swap, I jumped at the chance to sign up.

Firstly I had to create a mosaic to give my partner some inspiration, to help them know my style and what I like. I decided to pick some of my favourite items I own and picture them.

Jenny (@thelilaccat) got me as her partner. She made me a fantastic cushion using the dogs in sweaters pattern. Although my dog is a different breed, Jen did try to match her colourings. The fabric choices are just perfect for me and the incredible quilting makes this a wonderful item I am going to treasure. She also made a second item, using some funky mice fabric to make a see through pouch (pattern from aneela hoey). This is such a good sized pouch and those fun mice just make me smile. Also included in my package was some fabric that she kindly sent too.

My partner was Elizabeth (@biff74). She made a lovely mosaic, but I am very indecisive and found it hard to choose what to make. I finally decided to make a bag using a funky fruit print canvas. I made a few changes to a Debbie shore pattern.

I chose to screen print a couple pieces of calico fabric, using the festive cheer screen and red ink from screen sensation. In my package, I also included a handmade card and a Yankee candle... I picked the candle for the sentiment more than the actual scent!!

I had a bit of extra fun making a cute gift bag for the candle. I recycled some cath kidston postal plastic packaging from a recent order. I used the Avery Elle 'a tag for all die' to cut out two basic tag shapes. I stitched these together along three sides, leaving the top section open to fill with my gift. I finally found a matching yellow bakers twine and tied a bow to close the gift pouch. Personally, I think it's a great way to reuse such a nice printed packaging.