It took me the better part of the afternoon, but I made my first scarf today. I pieced together some coordinating fabrics for the front and used a solid-color flannel for the back. I also got to try out a technique that I had tested yesterday on scraps – polymer clay appliqué onto fabric. I am not particularly happy with the results. Structurally, it all seems just fine, but I was too messy in the process of applying the clay to the linen, and ended up with sloppy lines. I suspect this is going to be a technique that requires me not to rush through it… I’m sure I can do this more nicely next time, but I’m not sure what to do about this one. It looks perfectly fine from far away, but up close? Ew.
I made this as a gift for my grandmother’s birthday, but I’m having second thoughts. For one thing, there’s the messy appliqué issue. For another, I’m not sure it’s “grandmotherly” enough. Would you wear this scarf if you were 88 years old? Might it be too busy? I’m leaning towards giving it to her anyway. She can always turn it the other way and wear the solid color on the outside. And maybe the clay flower only bugs me because I know I could do it better given the time. Listen to me rationalize. Heh.
On the other hand, I could just buy her the usual sweater and keep the scarf for me. I just discovered I like playing dress-up 
The nitty-gritty: The pattern is inspired by the Scrap Scarf in Denyse Schmidt Quilts, and top-stitched a la the Bend the Rules Sewing bib, because it made me feel more secure that way. I used selections from Heather Bailey’s Freshcut collection along with a solid linen/cotton blend for the front of the scarf, and a soft creme flannel for the lining. The polymer clay appliqué was made from canes I had created specifically to coordinate with some of the Freshcut patterns.
I think that’s a beautiful gift for Granny – I suck and will only send flowers because I know not what else to do! 🙂
Hey, nothing wrong with flowers. I love the cheer a couple of flowers can bring to a room. The scarf is all wrapped up, and we’ll be on our way to your Dad’s house in a few minutes. Shall I send him your regards? 😉
Too cute! I think she needs the matching hat also. Another idea on the flower would be to drill little holes and sew them on like buttons.
Chris
Hey, the hat is all mine, LOL! I could go the button route, and I may in the future, but I was hoping to devise a new clay-to-cloth technique. I haven’t given up on it – I just need to find some time to play.
I’m not a clay artist so can’t help on that part but as for scarf, it’s beautiful and I think you should give it to her. My mother-in-law is 80 years old as of yesterday and she has the spirit and energy of someone much, much younger. She said that inside herself she doesn’t realize she’s that old. So give your grandmother the scarf and celebrate her “inner girl” spirit–I bet she’ll love it.
Thanks, June, good advice!
I think it is really pretty, I just may to make a scarf now too! I like idea of using flannel. Maybe I could do the entire scarf out of flannel…that sounds really warm and cozy. And I really do think your Granny would love it! Handmade gifts are the best : )
The flannel does feel really nice – I plan to make myself one, now! My family is no stranger to hand-made gifts from me, but this is the first time I have been able to sew at gift-giving time. Thank goodness, because I think they were all getting a little tired of clay jewelry and such 😉
I’m sure, given that she’s your Granny, that she will love it. Especially since you made it. Heck, I would love it and I’m not even related to ya!
Thanks, Michele – it’s nice to be able to make something that’s actually *useful* and not just decorative 🙂
I don’t know your grandma, Lisa…but some of the most “happening” ladies I know are over 80. It came out cute!!
Thanks! I think she liked it.
love it – it is beautiful! I am sure yoru Grandma will love it too
as an aside – I finally posted pictures of that baby quilt
and I can’t spell. oops
Thanks! I need to make myself one, I think…
I have to go check your quilt out!
aw, it’s lovely. i always get cold feet with crafted things, but they are always appreciated for the love and care they show.
and anyways, anyone would be glad to receive that beautiful scarf!
don’t put us lesser, mortal crafters off, please .)
x
Thanks. I give handmade gifts all the time, but they’re usually made of clay. I’m new to sewing, so giving fabric gifts is a new experience for me – fun, too!
Oh Lisa love the scarf and the poly flower is so gorgeous, multi crafted amazing.
Umm I think you should keep for yourself it really suits you.
Kara
xx