This month I chose a goal that will help me not only accomplish something nice for donation, but also clear a bit of space in my sewing room.
What is that mess, you ask? It’s a pile of soon-to-be sewn kennel quilts. Last year I donated 85 kennel quilts and doggie beds (stuffed with tiny scraps and batting bits) to our local Best Friends (no-kill) Pet Shelter. It’s a particular favorite place for Alfie and Darla, because that is where we found them over 4 years ago. Although I’m doing other charity projects this year, I still want to finish up these remainders that are waiting to be finished.
In February, I went through my cat and dog themed fabrics, blocks in the Parts Department and/or leftovers from other projects. I sewed up scraps into tops and matched them to backings. Next, I frankenpieced batting scraps to match up. Some of the fabric was donated by generous people or stores, and I have worked hard over the months to pare that down. They all need to be trimmed to sizes, but all the parts are there, ready to be sewn.
My goal for March is to finish up 10 of these quilts. I have eleven of them to do, but just in case something goes wrong, I’m just going to say 10. Keep in mind that these are small quilts, roughly placemat size. They range from about 12x18” on the small side, up to about 20x24” on the large side. They are not bound in the traditional sense, because bindings can come loose (think of a chewing pet....). Instead they are sewn with top and backing right sides together, with batting in-between, then stitched closed and quilted. Once I get an assembly line going, I can do these easily in a few hours.
And since this also uses up lots of old scraps and parts, I’m linking up to Oh Scrap! with Cynthia Brunz.
that should be a great goal, and using up scraps - win-win
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to know that someone is looking out for homeless animals. Many people will lend a hand for other people but tend to forget that animals are also in need. Also, having a kennel quilt makes the pet more adoptable as well as warmth and feeling of security.
ReplyDeleteI admire your commitment to this charitable giving, Cathy! Shelter pets need this bit of comfort, poor things. All our pets have been from the shelter, too. As my husband likes to say, "There's nothing as expensive as a free cat..."
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea for such a great cause. I bet you will finish all eleven!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing with Oh Scrap!
Sounds like a good plan for the month. Best of luck!!
ReplyDeleteSuch a great use for your scraps - the pets will be grateful I'm sure.
ReplyDeleteThat a great goal! Thanks for linking up with Elm Street Quilts One Monthly Goal and good luck on your project!
ReplyDeleteI am quite impressed that you presented your plan as a goal for finishing quilts when in fact you're STARTING new quilts...I need you to help me in my discussions with Molly!
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