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Book Review: Stash Happy Applique

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Stash Happy: Applique by Claire Shaffer is the latest in the Stash Happy series from Lark Crafts.  Within this book are 25 projects where applique makes the design.

The smaller pieces of fabric typically used in applique will send you digging happily through your scrap bin for those favorite little bits of fabric you couldn’t bear to part with.

Some of the projects have you add applique to a store-bought product, while others are made from scratch.  Project types range from home decor to kid- and baby-oriented to bags and other accessories.  Full-color photos accompany step-by-step instructions to make the projects.  Templates for appliques (other than simple shapes) are provided at the end of the book.

A few of my favorite projects include:

Sweet Dreams Tooth Pillow

Three tooth images are appliqued on to the edge of a purchased pillowcase.  The middle tooth is also a pocket where the tooth-for-money exchange can take place.  The simple lines make this equally appropriate for  boys and for girls.

Floating Heart Ornament

The handstitched heart floating in the middle of a clear glass ornament looks to be magic, but it’s actually achieved with the help of a clear transparency sheet.  You can make them from the tiniest of scraps, and give them out to friends and family as thoughtful Christmas gifties.

Kid Art Tryptych

Kids are always so proud when they see their artwork displayed on the wall or the fridge, or anywhere really.  This project takes kids’ art and turns them into a tryptych of stitched canvas.  The wonky lines of a child’s drawing are easily translated into a lighthearted applique design.

Little Miss Mason Jars

A simple mason jar  gets elevated to decorative storage when you wrap the clear glass jars with a quilted and appliqued cozy.  Follow their lead and applique pictures of buttons, thread, and ric rac to use the jars for your sewing supplies.

Modern Mary Janes

A plain pair of Mary Jane fabric shoes become bright, happy fashion accessories when you add some applique.  They show a flower and some dots dancing across the toes, but this would work with any motif.  I especially like the little motif sewn on the heels of the shoes.

I could go on and on about the cute projects in this book, but I’ve got to stop myself here.

But be sure to check back tomorrow.  I have a Stash  Happy giveaway to announce!

Looking for more tooth fairy gifts, trinkets and ideas? Check these Tooth fairy items out on Etsy.

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Sewing for Seniors: A Roundup of Practical Patterns for Aged Care and Dementia

As a caregiver to an elderly parent navigating the challenges of aging and dementia, I’ve found myself on a mission to create thoughtful, practical items that assist in everyday care while maintaining a sense of dignity and comfort. Over the years, my sewing projects have shifted from creating cute clothes for my children to sewing things that support my parents through their later years. It’s not always easy, and it can be heartbreaking at times, but crafting these items has brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you’re in a similar situation and looking for sewing patterns and tutorials to support your loved one, whether they are in a wheelchair, dealing with dementia, or simply needing adaptive clothing, this roundup is for you. These patterns offer solutions to daily challenges, from sensory stimulation to maintaining dignity and comfort. 

Adult dignity bib 

When caring for someone with dementia, eating can often become a messy experience. An adult dignity bib offers a simple but effective way to help prevent spills and ensure that your loved one remains comfortable and clean during mealtime. This pattern provides a great way to create a stylish and practical solution for dignity and comfort.

How to Turn a Plush into a Weighted Toy  

Weighted toys can be a calming and comforting tool for seniors, especially those experiencing anxiety or agitation. This tutorial shows you how to transform a soft plush toy into a weighted sensory item, offering soothing pressure and comfort to help relax your loved one. It’s a great way to create a personalized, comforting toy that provides sensory input.

Eye Pillow – Weighted 

Tulip Walker Tote Bag 

Special Needs Bib Pattern — CraftBits.com 

Make a Fidget Quilt with Rob! 

Fidget quilts are fantastic tools for dementia patients, offering tactile stimulation and promoting calmness. In this video tutorial, Rob guides you through the process of making a fidget quilt, showing you how to add various textures, buttons, zippers, and other engaging features to keep your loved one’s hands busy and focused

Making Fidget Quilts for Dementia Patients | Madam Sew – MadamSew

How to sew a fidget quilt 

How to Make a DIY Lycra Sensory Bed Sheet | And Next Comes L – Hyperlexia Resources

Lycra sensory bed sheets are an excellent choice for providing calming pressure during sleep. This pattern from And Next Comes L explains how to make a DIY Lycra sensory bed sheet that can help your loved one feel secure and relaxed while they sleep, which is especially useful for those with sensory processing issues.

Wheelchair And Walker Carry Bag Sewing Pattern

Tutorial: No-sew adaptive sweatshirt for wheelchair users 

Tutorial: Adult-sized bib – Sewing

How to Make a Fidget Blanket 

Sewing pattern: How to Make a Fidget Quilt 

How to Make an Adult Pocket Diaper

For individuals who need additional care in maintaining hygiene, adult pocket diapers can be a game-changer. This pattern teaches you how to create a comfortable, functional pocket diaper, ensuring your loved one stays dry and comfortable throughout the day.

How to Sew an Adult Front Closure Swim Diaper 

How to Sew a Fitted Adult Cloth Diaper

For those looking for an eco-friendly and budget-conscious option, sewing a fitted adult cloth diaper can be a great solution. This pattern offers detailed instructions for creating a well-fitting, reusable cloth diaper for adults who need additional support.

The Linda Pants – Free Adaptive Sewing Pattern

Adapting Creatively: Wheelchair Rain Poncho Tutorial

This wheelchair rain poncho is a practical and thoughtful accessory for wheelchair users. This tutorial shows you how to make a poncho that will keep your loved one dry while they’re out and about, ensuring they stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

Adapting Creatively: Split-back Wheelchair Jacket

 Weighted Blanket

Weighted Lap Pad

For those who need a little extra calming weight throughout the day, a weighted lap pad is an ideal choice. This simple but effective pattern helps you create a lap pad that can be placed on your loved one’s lap for a soothing, calming effect that promotes relaxation and comfort.