Saturday, January 23, 2010

Snack Mats

For me, inspiration comes from many places, books being in the top 5 places for acquiring some good old inspiration for handmade things. On my last trip to the library (by myself even!) I came across a beautiful book called Linen, Wool, Cotton , a lovely book of sewing projects written by an equally lovely Japanese woman. Like so many others, she loves to work with natural materials and out of that passion came this book. There are 25 wonderful project to make for your home and to wear, I could be in serious trouble if I happened across a bunch of linen, cotton or wool that needed a destiny.
One project caught my eye in that it was small and could be put together quickly, also it was just the thing my kids would enjoy using. Her snack mats are made from a gorgeous white fleece with three elegant french knots in the bottom corner so mine don't evoke quite the same spirit but they are very much loved now at afternoon snack time so what can I say. Besides, anything white around my little darlings isn't white for long. The girls' are made from a small flour sack trimmed with thrifted lace and the boys' are made from the remains of their dad's old shirts that were repurposed into Christmas PJ bottoms.

I embroidered their initials on them since my little men aren't into lace. Now, my machine isn't made to do embroidery so I will show you the nice "T" I made with the button hole function and not show the "D" I made with the button hole function. They were all gratifyingly delighted when they awoke from their naps to find snacks waiting on their own snack mats. By the way, those chocolate cookies are my favorite and every time I make them I eat way too many. Those and rice crispy treats. Just keep them away from me, I have no self control!

11 comments:

Kristin said...

you went to the library by yourself and did not call me?! *pouts*
P.S. I love their initials. ;)

frugalredneck said...

OH MY, What a great find!!!! I love these so much, I am making 3 tonight for my 3 little ones!!! Thanks so much for sharing. Michelle frugalredneck.blogspot.com

Melly Thibault said...

Sew sweet! lol

Unknown said...

Love the idea! Much cheaper than paper plates!! I'm stealing this idea!!

stitching under oaks said...

this is a wonderful idea...we often use paper towels for snacks...but this is even better and better for the environment. i'm so glad i saw this....thank you for sharing.

Tiffani said...

Cute! What a fun idea for the kids, and I love how you repurposed other items for them!

Green Acres in the City said...

What a wonderful idea. I stumbled over hear from Stiching Under Oaks. Lovely blog. I am definately going to be a reader and follower!

thanks,
Maeghan

Heather said...

These are such a great idea!!!! Just another little way to remind kids to be eco-minded, and add a little beauty to snack time. Perfect

Elece Hollis said...

I have a cute photo of the four children seated at the breakfast bar having their snack. Now, that is cute!

perches said...

Such a cute project!

Anonymous said...

Hi!! I just found your blog & this awesome idea. :) I was wondering what size did you make the snack mats? I'm new to sewing but would love to make these for my family. :) Thank you!

Monica