October 23, 2011

Homemaking...

We all have different ways of making our houses homes, and making those we love feel cared for. I love it when I can spend a minimal amount of time to end up with something that has a big impact. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.

I was in the studio only for a few hours (total) over the weekend, but I ended up with four new sets of napkins for the Flying Cloud. I know, this is nothing big, but when you're traveling and eating dinner on the road, it makes one feel a bit more civilized. It feels more like "home".
Each napkin is two-sided with my signature acorn label on the side. They measure 12 1/2" square (but if I'm making them for the house, I think I'll upsize them to 14" or 16"). There are four napkins per set.
Some of the patterns are whimsical and some are more realistic. I really love the palm trees, but aren't these sea creatures cute, too?
Each napkin has a backing fabric that complements the main fabric. I think this vibrant aqua dot was just a perfect choice. It reminds me of the turtles on the front.
This fabric is one of the newest additions to my stash. Palm trees, sandpipers, seashells and sailboats. Could anything be more perfect for someone living in Florida? (And it coordinates with the plain palm tree fabric in the first set, so if there are more than four people at the table, I can mix and match!)
This set has a sand/beach theme on the back with seashells, sand dollars and other items you might find in the sand on our Florida beaches.
Of course, because there's such a strong music theme on the Flying Cloud already, I needed to make one more set using a little of my favorite Rhapsody of Grace fabric (I did manage to find four more yards when all of you helped me with my search!)...
backed with a one that reminds me of the feather quilting so popular on finished quilts. I think this just may be the quilting pattern I choose for the Farmers Wife quilt (when we're finally at that point).

I'm thinking of making some up as gifts for a few family members this year in their favorite colors/themes. I've been thinking about adding some of these napkin sets to the Boutique, too. What do you think?
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12 comments:

  1. Love the new placemats Donna..I never thought about lining napkins and am working on a runner with placemats or napkins with grapes print..maybe I could put backing on the back of the napkins that match backing on back of the runner. I have a DIL that loves anything to do with the beach and she would love something like that..Thanks for sharing and the ideas. I think you shoule add to your botique :)

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  2. I love cloth napkins! I keep a basket full in the kitchen. When they get a bit shabby they go on to be reusable cleaning cloths. I have paper towels and napkins, they just don't get used very othen. Nice job!
    Deb

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  3. Donna, you really created some really beautiful things this weekend! Just gorgeous!!

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  4. they`re absolutely awesome and you will sell many.!

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  5. Okay, not sure if the first note went through. But anyway, your napkins are adorable. I know anyone lucky enough to receive a set will be very happy. ALso wanted to thank you for the ATC. It was soooo cute and so inspirational. Thanks again.

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  6. Donna, your napkins are so wonderful! Such elegance to have beautiful handmade napkins! Twyla

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  7. These napkin sets are perfect for the Flying Cloud. Your selection of fabrics is so fun. Love how you can switch them up and intermix. These will make lovely gifts for anyone...family or gift buyers. Wonderful week dear...

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  8. Nicely done! I like the little acrons too.

    Lorraine :-}

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  9. I think your napkin sets are just gorgeous, the fabrics really work well together. Looks like another 'to do' added to my list.

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  10. I love them girlfriend and I really love your little acorn tag!

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  11. These are all so gorgeous, Donna. I especially love the last set. :) And I really like your new blog header - very homey and warm!

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Blessings, Donna