Thursday, October 18, 2012

the beach blanket





Sometimes, a little handmade giving, though it may be in the busiest and hectic of weeks, can be just what you need. Though sometimes the line of fun and work can be easily blurred, and the rushing of a project can lead to little problems, the reward a the end is the satisfaction of not just the completed project, but the enjoyment of the process. Sometimes you just need that distraction.

In this case I knew my gift receiver spends many hours at the beach with her three kids, and quite likes a bit of handmade. So I thought the Beach Blanket to Go project from Handmade Home would be just perfect for her. Either as a beach or picnic blanket, it should be a handy one to have rolled up  and ready in the car. I've long wanted to make this blanket, and there is nothing like a deadline for prompting a new project.

A lot of cutting of vintage sheets and an old chenille bedspread later, it wasn't long before it all came together (fairly) easily. The binding, (from some old packets I had in my stash) wasn't the kindest of bindings, and the polyester content ensured much creasing, wonkiness and quite a bit of cursing. But living out of town you soon learn to work with what you have. I ignored the fact that the binding was pink and two different shades of orange. Let's just call it colour blocking, shall we?

Of course I liked this project so much that I have a few more planned for the end of the year. Because it would be nice to have one rolled up in the back of our car for impromptu picnics. I suspect it would be quite a bit more comfortable than sitting on towels on the beach. And big enough to accommodate quite a few people.


Wishing this blanket a long and sandy life down the coast!




18 comments:

  1. isn't it lovely! seems like a perfect thing to sit on in the sunshine, I'm sure it will be well-received :)sarah

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  2. its great!....i just found a huge choc coloured chenille at the oppy...you have given me the perfect use for it!...thanks!
    Allison x

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  3. it's lovely, what a lucky recipient.
    I have wanted to make this blanket for awhile now, but don't have any sheets or much sewing skill.

    cheers Kate

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  4. Beautiful. The combination of fabrics is really pretty.
    The recipients are very lucky.
    I love the idea of rolling it up as well.
    x

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  5. Lovely, I especially like the chenille backing and the fact that it rolls up. I don't know how many times I have the rug over my arm and it just slips off to the ground as I'm lugging food and other stuff to my picnic!

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  6. What a lovely gift, the receiver will be delighted when she opens up her beach/picnic blanket. Lovely mix of vintage fabrics:)

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  7. it's beautiful and so practical. love the size and pretty colours. i am sure it will be very much appreciated. xo

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  8. I have Amanda's book too - and have been meaning to make this blanket for ages (plus heaps of her other projects that I love). I just haven't come across a chenille bedspread yet (our op shop is hopeless). Great job Tanya - the blanket looks lovely!

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  9. That is just gorgeous! And the backing is wonderful. I would have trouble deciding which side to use!

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  10. i have been on the search for a chenille for ages. love this, soak up the sun and enjoy:) x ashley

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  11. Perfectly beachy. Love the style and colors! Good job.

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  12. It looks perfect and not at all wonky. I love the colors! I am sure it will have a very happy and useful life at the beach. Good work!

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  13. Looks awesome! I'm sojealous of the lucky recipient

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  14. Love it so so much. I have all the bits to make this, had even made it in my head months ago, just need to make it happen, you are so inspiring Tania with your constant productivity. mel x

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  15. I love this - fantastic! Love the old chenille on the back. Just fantastic.

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  16. Oh, I have been meaning to buy Handmade Home for the longest time, and you've just given me yet ANOTHER reason to get it! I love your beach blanket. And I recognise a few of the prints from my own vintage sheet collection in it! So gorgeous.

    Katie x

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