A Little Advent Sewing 101

Chers Amis,

About seven years ago I made my biggest ever over-the- top purchase - a Bernina virtuosa 150. Over-the-top because I do not sew frequently, but at that time I was expecting #3, quilting quite a bit, making window treatments and recovering a couch. Also, I received a very generous gift from my equally frugal grandmother. I had been using a 1950's Singer that still had spunk but was growing lethargic. My husband had inherited it from his great-aunt, a dress designer with her own boutique on Palm Beach for 30 years. With i, she crafted finely tailored garments for the well-heeled and glamorous. It taught me how to sew. I made crib linens, quilts, curtains and little girl dresses. I still have it and will pass it on to my girls when they are ready. When the Singer declined, I splurged and I am so glad I did. Berninas last and are well made.

Alas, the beautiful machine's foot pedal had been quiet for a long time, so I decided to do a little Advent sewing this year. Nothing grand - I still have a queen-sized quilt I need to finish piecing - something simple that I could use - place mats. We use place mats for every meal and I have made several sets for my sloppy eaters. This time I wanted something liturgical that we could throw in the wash when the lemonade, milk or gravy spilled and puddled. Purple is a great choice because it can be used for both Advent and Lent - and it doesn't show stains :-) As you can see, these aren't fancy - or difficult, but I was pleased. Here are some simple directions in case you want to make your own set.

• I purchased @ 1.5 yds pre-quilted, double sided fabric at JoAnns. I loved that I didn't have to cut backing and batting and bind the whole project. Easy and fast.
• Using a ruler, marking pencil or a white colored pencil, draw cutting lines - 16.5 in x 11.25 in
• Cut using pinking shears if possible
• Edge the mats with a straight stitch to stop fraying.
• Add a decorative stitch in white or a contrasting color thread @ .5 inc from your edging.
• Clip loose threads and apply Fray Check along edges.
• Fini!

-- Marjorie