In 2021 after making a christmas quilt using a pattern from a magazine, I set myself the challenge of using my crafty book more. It seems such a shame that we all buy books and magazines, mainly for the patterns in my case, then hardly ever use them. When I posted about this on instagram, it turned out I wasn't alone either. It was a little difficult to come up with a # at first and I did have a little help from a friend. Finally I decided on #sewthescrapoutofyourbooks. Since starting the challenge we have also added (magazines and patterns), since its not just books that get forgotten about. It turns out I really am not the only one and a few people are joined in and posted to the # too!
Last year I managed to made 10 projects using my books, magazines and unused pdf patterns. Although I did use 1 book for 3 projects and 1 pdf for 2 projects.
This year I am doing it again... I have set the myself the challenge of making one project a month from a book, magazine or using a pdf pattern. I have added the challenge that I want to try and use fabric from my stash or scrap box, as much as possible, instead of buying new fabric for all the projects.
I have finished my first project. I used some Tilda stash to make this cute little bird using the Tilda hot chocolate book. Since the beak and wings are all hand stitched on to the body (as well as the turning gap) this project took a little bit longer than I thought. It was a nice little project to practice sewing curves though and since it stands up on its own, it looks so cute perched on my shelf.
Since it always makes project or challenge more fun when you do it with others, I am hosting the challenge on instagram too. Its super easy to join in, simply make a project using a pattern from a book, magazine or pdf pattern you have been hoarding. Preferably using scraps or your stash, although not requirement. Then post a picture of your make with the #sewthescrapoutofyourbooks. It would be great if you tag me too @craftylilmouse so I don't miss it. Even though I am hoping to make one a month, you can join in as much or as little as you want. I will probably do some giveaway or prizes along the way but mostly its just to have fun and encourage each other to keep going and using all the fabulous books and magazines we buy!
Mx
