Inspiration !!!

 Recently I took a trip with my sister to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It is a beautiful little town nestled within the Ozark Mountains. The narrow streets and Victorian architecture is awe inspiring, not to mention the unique shops and exclusive art galleries. The perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon looking for inspiration.  

 We ate lunch at "The Mud Cafe", where there I was entranced by this beautiful fabric wall mural. Though we were seated too far away for me to examine how it was actually sewn together I was able to snap a photo without interrupting any other diners.It depicted a scene of Victorian dressed men and women and as you can see it is absolutely gorgeous and quite dimensional. Those are real lace ruffles on her petticoat. Throughout the entire meal I could barely keep my eyes off of it. Trying to account for every little detail and all the time thinking, "I can't wait to get home and make one of my own." Okay, so I dream big and yes I realise the amount of time that must have been put into creating this work of art but inspiration had sparked and I was not going to let it pass by. Perhaps I could start with something on a smaller scale. A pillow? Or maybe even a tote bag ? Yes I had to curb my excitement but not the notion.                                                                        

By the end of the day I have to admit my shopping was minimal though my head was filled with ideas. So much creativity in this little town it almost makes you dizzy. 

Bit's & Pieces Braclets

   Fabric wrist bands are fast and fun to wear. Made from small pieces of cloth, you could use just about anything your imagination allows. Left over fabric scraps, an old piece of clothing. The possibilities are endless. Look for patterns, colors and textures that appeal to you. 
    For embellishment, again there are many options. I have used small appliques, which I stitched on, and a couple of silver studs. You could use buttons, beads, ribbon, anything that can be sewn or glued onto the fabric. A sewn on snap makes the bracelet easy to get on and off, though velcro would also work.
   For the bands you will need to measure around your wrist ( this will be the length) add a 1/2 inch to this measurement to allow for 1/4 inch seam allowances on either end. Cut two rectangles 2 inches wide by your measured length. ( Cutting the width 2 inches will allow 1/4 inch seam allowances along the sides, leaving the finished band 1 and 1/2 inches wide.) 
   With right sides together, stitch along the two long sides and one end. Remember to leave 1/4 inch seam allowances. With open end, turn right side out. Tuck the seam allowance on the open end inside and press with iron. Top stitch along the edge of the entire rectangle. This helps to keep it flat and can be done by hand or machine. You can now embellish your band, attach the snap or velcro and your ready to go!