I used to have a rule about the Creativ Festival: I needed to finish all the previous year’s classes before I could sign up for the next year’s classes. A few years back, that rule was forgotten as the number of classes I took got greater and greater. But, seeing my huge backlog of projects, I decided that I would work hard to finish my class projects from the 2015 fall festival.
Icy Ornament, designed by Carol Storie
Last year I actually managed to finish several of the projects from the 2015 festival, like the ornament above. But, I still have a few more to go. So, while still feeling brave after finishing the Just Nan Needle Flutter – Lady, I decided to try finishing the most difficult project I had left, Matryoshka Keepsake Case designed by Michelle Cheong.
Matryoshka Keepsake Case, designed by Michelle Cheong
My little guy has a certain… charm. For some reason his face opening ended up much larger than it should be, and it is a little off centre. I also didn’t do a great job with the needle turn applique. When I make another one I will most likely make the face out of felt and applique it on top of the body fabric, rather than underneath like this one is.
Matryoshka Keepsake Case – opened, outside
Otherwise, I’m very happy with how it turned out. I love the shape of the case, and the lovely heavy zipper that fits just right. It is such a cute idea.
Matryoshka Keepsake Case – opened, inside
The little pear-shaped pieces that this little case is built around are apparently only available in Japan. I’ve tried to find an online source for them, but I haven’t had any luck. If you’d like to learn more about how these case are made, you can check out Summer 2014 issue of A Needle Pulling Thread magazine.