Backpack Baby Gifts

 My wonderful neighbor is single-handedly keeping my backpack business afloat.

She recently commissioned me to make 2 backpacks as baby shower gifts. 

 Matching bibs and washcloths complete the set.  Something for now, something for later.

 And a matching little purse for the big sister.

 It's really a win win situation.  For her, it's one-stop shopping.  And for me, I get to play with these fun fabrics.

Thanks Lisa!

Baby Gifts

Lately the days seem to be flying by.  Not sure if it's because it's summer or just because that's life.  My oldest child is starting kindergarten in a few days and though I'm really excited for her, it's also a huge change in our life.  I can't help feeling like before we know it, it'll be high school graduation. 

So in the midst of all the changes, I haven't been blogging too much.  I have some posts planned, but I'm trying to just enjoy the last few days of having my little girl at home. 

I also started listing some backpacks in my shop again, which there has been high demand for with school right around the corner.  This cute turtle pack was a commission from my neighbor.  It's for her sister-in-law who is expecting a new baby boy in a few months.  Since it will be a while before he can actually use it, I added a cute little bib and washcloth set.   

I got the idea to package the washcloths from Dana's burp cloth tutorial.  Definitely gives the set a nice look.

Another friend is expecting a baby in early October, so I made some cute bibs using my Scrappy Baby Bib Tutorial and some matching washcloths.

 I love the colors and the way it all comes together.  Perfect little baby gifts.

Simple Washcloth Tutorial

I don't know about you, but we always seem to have a shortage of washcloths in our house.  We use them for everything from wiping counters to washing faces.  

This tutorial is more about inspiration and a little tip since sewing a washcloth is about as easy as it gets.

I used a 100% cotton chenille that I picked up on vacation and cotton flannel. 

I made a template from my stash of file folders, 6 inches by 6 inches square.

 Lay your fabric right side together and trace the pattern.  Here's the trick.  See those 2 blue lines perpendicular to the pattern?  That's the opening and you want to actually sew on those lines.  What this does is pull that seam allowance down and make it easier to sew that opening closed when turned right side out.

 Sew just inside your traced lines and trim.

 Turn right side out and press.  See how you can't tell where the opening was?

 Top-stitch around the perimeter.  I also folded the washcloth in thirds and sewed 2 parallel lines to keep the layers together better.

 Super easy!

How cute would these be wrapped up for a new baby?

Here's to easy projects!