You Can Afford the Luxury of Cashmere Quilts

My latest projects have been inspired by a book I found called Sewing Green By Betz White.

There are 25 low cost projects using recycled and/or organic materials. Most of the projects take old things and give them a new life.  Such as the project of making aprons out of men's dress shirts or a wrap around skirt from a vintage table cloth. 

 It also includes articles about individuals and companies who are "sewing green" these days.  Such as sewing lounges set up for people who can't afford or don't have room for a sewing machine in their home. My personal favorite is the Swap-O-Rama-Rama (SORR) ....... people bring clothes they are done with to a community swap.  Everything is put together by type (i.e. shirts, skirts, etc.)  then you shop.  Sewing machines are set up in a different area along with "experts" who will help you alter or embelish the piece of clothing you just picked out for yourself.  The result is not only a fun filled day of shopping but also of creating something new for yourself with the only cost being your time!!!!  Now that is what I call a win/win situation.  Anyone up for organizing a Swap-O-Rama-Rama in your community can visit swaporamarama.org for tips and ideas.

My first project however,  was the cashemere quilt found on page 34.    I shopped for old 100% cashmere sweaters at second hand stores such as Goodwll and Salvation Army.  The cost was $1.00 to $4.00 per sweater and you need only 4-5 per quilt.  I put valour on the backs.  This was a fun and easy project and the quilts are super soft. For under $30 you have a chasmere quilt which would otherwise cost you $250 or more. 

 I made a beige and burgundy one for my dad (that's the colors in his living room)

 and a pink, black and gray one for Steve and I for Valentine's. 

That then inspired me to use some of the scraps and make a heart shaped pillow filled with lavendar from my garden for Grace.



My next project will be lounging pants made from a bed sheet I got for only $1.00.  All of my girls said they all wanted a pair made from this fun fabric.  I think I can get 4 pairs out of the sheet.  So with the cost of thread, elastic and trim they will only cost about .50 a pair.  Can't beat that value!!!

I would love to hear your "sewing green"  ideas...........please feel free to share by leaving a comment or email me at yagirl@safe-mail.net.