Three Things : Fabric (& a giveaway)
(Unikko - Orange, Mirabelle Red (Alexandar Henry), Alfie Barkcloth (Yellow))
One of my favorite parts of my recent creativity travel was working with fabric in my projects. I have been playing with bits of it with my sewing machine and starting to collect small pieces here and there (haven't gotten into any clothes sewing yet).
Here's a fabric layout I made in Christina Lazar Schuler's class at Inspired called Textile Anthology (check her Etsy store for available kits):
She talked about making an entire album of fabric pages (the one above is 8x8). I like that idea and I also love that this sort of page can just go in my regular albums as well (put it into a page protector or add grommets to fit to your album rings).
So why fabric? I like to think of it in the same way I think of pattern paper - a decoration. A bit of color. The cool thing about fabric is that it also lends texture to your project. We can all use a bit more texture in our lives. Fabric can be added to a layout with adhesive or stitched on by hand (I actually really liked the process of hand-stitching the photo on the layout above) or with a machine (quick and easy). Try using it in place of patterned paper on your next project. It's also especially great for covering chipboard albums.
Currently I am storing my fabric pieces in my metal shelf:
Here are three of my favorite sites for checking out fabric include Sew Mama Sew (love searching by color), Purl Soho (especially loving their contemporary collection), and Repodepot. You can also search etsy for vintage fabric sellers like Shabby Vintage Mom who has some cute bundles of vintage fabrics.
The giveaway today is for Donna Downey's newest book Fabric Scrapbooking. It's very much a project-based book with step by step instructions and supply lists to walk you through each project.
To enter the giveaway simply leave a comment below. I will close comments and pick a winner on Wednesday night around 7pm (April 23).
Something new and exciting always gets your creativity flowing. You are the faucet!! LOL
Thanks for sharing the goodness of Donna
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Can't believe you have 1400 comments already!!! So, I'll put in my two cents worth, would love Donna's book for some fabric inspiration!!
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I love the look of fabric and can't wait to try it for myself!
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inspired to break out my sewing machine here too...maybe tonight :)
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the book looks awesome, I love fabric for my altered projects, and I love Donna!!!!!!!
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Ooh. Pick me. Choose me. Love me.
(quote from Grey's Anatomy)
Trying to branch out into other craftiness and this is so boss.
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I love your blog. Thanks for all the inspiration.
Kathy
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Love the fabric twist. It's been a long time since I've been to a fabric store; I'm wondering if there will be cute fabric just hanging out or do I have to search online? I guess we'll see...thanks for sharing your ideas. I always feel inspired after reading and literally studying your work. Thanks!
Audrey
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** wow **
I'd love to have that book!!
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I could spend hours looking at fabric. My favorites are reprints from the '30's. I think they are adorable!
I love your blog! Thanks for sharing your talents with the world!
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Fabric is intriguing but a challenge for someone like me who has never been into sewing :) Gotta love Unikko though, as a Finn it's always nice to see Finnish design being appreciated!
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Ali,
I have a passion for fabric. I love the texture, feel and colors. I collect it like patterned paper. I mostly just use it for quilting but would love to incorporate it more in other projects.
You are amazing. Thanks for all you do.
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ive always wanted to try fabric scrapping but have never known where to start. a book like this is always good!!
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Hip-hip-hooray, a give-away today! :)
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Wow! that's a lot of comments...probably no hope for me but i love Donna Downey's books...they make me step outside of my anal-retentive box!
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I love reading your blog, such inspiration! I just bought a new sewing machine so I can try out some fun fabric options on my layouts. :) Happy Wednesday!
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Can't wait to try some fabric scrapping with a few fat quarters I've picked up here and there. Love this idea!
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Thanks for the great ideas Ali! I've thought of using fabric before but didn't know where to start. I love your pictures of inspiration and great links. Thank you for always pushing the limits :)
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I love the soft, vintage look that fabric brings to pages and would really love to learn ways to use it! Ali this blog is awesome, keep it up!
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This is neat. I learned to sew when I was about 12yrs old. I would make all kinds of outfits for myself. I havent been sewing in a very long time. It is quicker to buy clothes for 3 small children. Scrapping with it would be something to consider!
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I would love to play with fabric and add it to my scrapbooks. It might also justify a sewing machine purchase. Hmmmm... Mother's Day ...hmmmmm.
Sue in Alexandria VA
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I actually started with sewing and I think that's why I love scrapping so much. It's the same concept of quilting smaller items together to create a bigger, final product. Love your stuff!
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I would LOVE to win this book!!! I have been wanting to incorporate fabric into my scrapbooking, (I love the look and great page by the way!!!)I love checking out your blog, you keep my "wanting to try something new" addition going. Take care Sherrie
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Interesting idea, using fabric! I like the fabric on your page.
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I have her other books and need this one to add to the set! BTW I love your books too.
Kathy
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