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Tutorial: Sew a “Best Of…” Book to record family memories

January 1, 2010 by Anne Weaver

bestofbookKirstin from kojodesigns writes on her blog about a longtime New Year’s Eve tradition in her family.  They’d make tape recorded conversations as the family reflected upon the past year and their hopes for the coming year(s).   This year, she decided to start a similar tradition in her own household, with a written account of the best memories of the year.  She calls it a “Best Of…” Book and she shares a tutorial so you can make one for your own family.  Get the how-to.

 

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Comments

  1. Ernestine F Zaba says

    January 10, 2010 at 8:18 am

    I remember when I was a little girl, I was lucky to have my grandma living with us. She would sit with my sister and I teaching us how to sew, knit and other craft. I remember sitting at the threadle sewing machine and pumping it so Grandma could sew and she would take the belt off so we could play and not get hurt. As time went on we would sew fabric and make little things. As time went on my Mom got an electric sewing machine and Grandma would still sew on the threadle machine. We had alot of good times with Grandma and alot of closeness. When I got a granddaughter I would spend alot of special time teaching her to sew, pillows and quilts. I always thank my grandma for giving to me the time and love, so I did the same for my granddaughter Alexa. I look back at a time when life was simple and am so happy to have the wonderful memories and I hope my granddaugher will have the same memories of me.

    • anneweaver says

      January 10, 2010 at 4:12 pm

      These are such lovely sewing memories!

  2. shirley chamberlain says

    January 10, 2010 at 1:39 pm

    where do I find the information for the Jo-Ann Decades Contest I went into the site you provided but no luck

Have you read?

Sewing Pattern Saturday: Comfort Blanket 2-in-1 Sewing Pattern Review

There’s something especially meaningful about sewing for babies — and comfort items sit right at the top of that list. The Comfort Blanket 2-in-1 sewing pattern stood out because it’s designed to become that item. The one that gets carried everywhere, washed a hundred times, and quietly becomes part of a child’s everyday routine.

This isn’t a decorative nursery piece meant to sit untouched on a shelf. It’s a practical, thoughtful design that understands how babies actually use comfort blankets — for cuddling, soothing, and familiarity. Patterns like this always catch our attention because they’re about function first, with handmade heart woven all the way through.

Quick Pattern Overview

  • Pattern type: Baby comfort blanket / lovey

  • Skill level: Beginner

  • Format: PDF sewing pattern

  • Sizing range: Baby / infant

  • Designed for: Comfort, soothing, everyday use

  • Where to find it: Etsy (PDF sewing pattern)

Skill Level – What You Really Need to Know

This is a very beginner-friendly pattern, making it an excellent choice if you’re new to sewing for babies or want a gentle, satisfying project. The construction is straightforward, with no complex shaping or garment techniques involved.

Accuracy still matters — especially with neat seams and soft finishing — but this is absolutely a pattern you can enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a lovely option if you’re sewing during nap times or want a project you can complete in short bursts.

Fabric & Material Suggestions

Fabric choice is especially important here, as this is something babies will cuddle and handle constantly.

  • Best fabrics: Cotton muslin, cotton jersey, soft flannel, bamboo blends

  • For texture: Mix smooth cotton with a slightly textured backing

  • Fabrics to avoid: Anything stiff, scratchy, or heavily embellished

Softness and washability are key. Choosing fabrics that get better with washing will ensure the finished blanket holds up to real use.

Fit, Sizing & Wearability Notes

This comfort blanket is designed to be easy for little hands to hold, fold, and cuddle. The size is intentional — not too large, not too small — making it suitable for prams, cots, and everyday outings.

Because it’s not size-dependent in the way clothing is, this pattern offers a lot of flexibility. It’s also a great option if you’re sewing gifts and don’t know exact measurements.

Before You Start Sewing This Pattern

  • Pre-wash all fabrics to avoid shrinkage

  • Read instructions fully before cutting

  • Choose thread suitable for frequent washing

  • Take time with finishing edges neatly

  • Double-check PDF print scale if templates are included

These small steps help ensure a soft, durable result.

Customisation & Styling Ideas

This 2-in-1 pattern is easy to personalise and makes a wonderful handmade gift.

You could:

  • Use contrasting fabrics for visual interest

  • Personalise with embroidery or appliqué

  • Coordinate fabrics with a nursery theme

  • Make multiple versions for rotation

  • Pair it with a matching bib or blanket

It’s a pattern that encourages thoughtful fabric choices rather than complicated sewing.

Who This Pattern Is Best For

This pattern is a great choice if you:

  • Sew for babies or new parents

  • Want a quick, meaningful project

  • Enjoy beginner-friendly sewing

  • Like making handmade gifts that get used

You may want to skip this if:

  • You’re looking for a garment project

  • You prefer complex construction

  • You dislike repetitive stitching

Why We’re Sharing This Pattern

We love sharing patterns like this because they highlight the emotional side of sewing. Comfort blankets aren’t about fashion or trends — they’re about familiarity, softness, and care. This pattern is simple, thoughtful, and designed for real use, which makes it incredibly rewarding to sew.

It’s exactly the kind of project that reminds us why handmade matters.

About Sewing Pattern Saturday

Sewing Pattern Saturday is a regular series here on CraftGossip where we highlight sewing patterns created by independent designers, with a strong focus on Etsy sellers and small businesses. It’s our way of supporting talented pattern makers while helping sewists discover patterns that are practical, well-designed, and genuinely enjoyable to make.

Find the Pattern Here

You can find the Comfort Blanket 2-in-1 PDF Sewing Pattern on Etsy ?

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