I made something for our Mother's Day Tea, a ruffly tablecloth. This is my little pressie to myself.
I have been re-reading my Shabby Chic books lately (lots of decorating planned around the house, so I'm gathering ideas and inspiration. I shall share more about the newest books I've acquired soon). One idea that just wouldn't leave my mind was a ruffly tablecloth. They discreetly feature throughout the SC books. I just HAD to try making one. My sewing machine is now out of hospital, and is working once more. On Friday I decided to give it a good try out, and make a start on a ruffly tablecloth for the kitchen table. I don't work from patterns, I think about how to go about an idea then just go for it. I spent a week going through ideas in my head of how to make it. Using a plain white flat sheet, I cut it to make the ruffly side. I am too lazy to measure things, so I just go by eye. I know, it's bad, but there we are, I am lazy so-and-so! I cut one large panel, then the rest into strips (like thick bandages), joined two together to make one long strip, hemmed, then ruffled and attached to the panel. I did this three times so I had a three ruffle edge. 
Time consuming, but enjoyable too. There is probably an easier way (or a 'right' way) of doing this, but this worked for me. After buying another flat sheet I was able to make the top section and attach the sides. I also bought some frilly lace to conceal the join between top and side, and add a bit of extra frill.It's not everyone's cup of tea, and it's far from perfect, but I am happy with it. I am half tempted to dye it with tea to age it a bit, but I'm still thinking about it. It won't be on the table all the time, just on days when I feel the need for a bit of frilliness. It was pretty easy to make - easier than I expected - but the only thing that made me kick myself was realising afterwards that I could ruffle fabric very easily using the sewing machine!! Ah well, I am still a learner when it comes to sewing.
On Friday, a comment here led me to a site that I just have to mention.
Into this..
I'm wearing it today (with jeans). My only gripe with mine is that the neck of the t-shirt is a touch too high, it would look better if it had a slightly lower scoop, but it doesn't matter. I wanted to try it out and use cheap tops in case I mucked it up. The point is that it was easy to do, and I would have no hesitation in customising any other t-shirts in this way. And now I know how to make ruffles using the sewing machine, it's very quick to do!
I will be back later this week with details of the giveaway. It's not very big or exciting, just a little something and nothing to celebrate reaching over 90 followers ~ something I never expected to happen :o) I would have done it sooner, but I've really needed my break from the computer.To all the Brit girls out there, enjoy Mother's Day.
