Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Project 4.7 Vintage tapestry pillow

This project has been merely a dream for over a year. I have collected several of these vintage velvet tapestries with hope of turning them into pretty pillows.
I decided to start with the kitten themed one so I dug out the tapestry some thick fringe and fabric for the back.
I washed the tapestry on a delicate cycle with plenty of fabric softener soon after purchase and it turned out clean and super soft. Unfortunately I do not own a very good sewing machine and my needle broke as well s my pressure foot before I could complete the task. So far I am thrilled with the results. I love the velvet it's theme and colors and even the backing fabric (although I was forbidden to purchase it by a friend who deemed it ugly....of course this is the same friend who has threatened to burn some of my unfashionable wardrobe and has told me seriously that I am not allowed to marry again until she gives the Ok on the mate. I bought the fabric and I still have my repulsive clothes. I don't think I'm interested in challenging marriage with or without her approval..LoL) The fringe matches perfectly. I thought the large size would make a perfect floor pillow or bolster type pillow for across the bed. The backing fabric just had such a 40's appeal to me with its style and color. Makes me think of Bette Davis 0r Barbara Stanwyck movies. I managed to get all the sides sewn together and the fringe on when the machine broke. Ill stuff it and attempt to hand sew the final edge and trim but may be forced to repair the machine to complete. I will post a photo of the completed project but this is where I stand for now.

8 comments:

Kelley - a very JunqueyGal! said...

You just need a nice strong needle for jeans :D Although I've snapped quite a few of those babies too.

Looks great w/ that fabric. ITA, it would've been gorgeous in an old b&w flick.

Btw, my $200 machine from Joanns was worth every penny, and does a great job. A worthy investment.

Little Blue Violet said...

Thanks for the advice but it was a heavy duty needle which said it would sew through the seams of jeans. Ill hve to check out Joannes machines....is there a name and model umber you could share?
thanks Kelley

Martha, Vintage Trifles said...

Cool pillow! I still use my 20+ year old Kenmore machine that was about $199.00 new! You just need the heavy-duty needles. Love, love, love your new blog! Especially the sidebar! You alwyas give me a chuckle, M.

Martha, Vintage Trifles said...

Okay, so I didn't read your comment above mine. Some machines just won't do heavy thicknesses - like hems on denim jeans, etc. Then you have to rely on hand-sewing. Sorry! M.

One Shabby Old House said...

I can see exactly the look you are going for and I adore it. So happpy that you stopped by my blog so that I could find your as well.
I cracked up reading your banner so I can see you are a witty gal as well. I look forward to getting to know you through your blog.
Take care
Becky

kari and kijsa said...

Have a safe and happy Halloween!
smiles,
kari & kijsa

Marilyn said...

Hi, Darly...just wanted to say hi--hope you're doing ok.
Marilyn:)

Nita Jo said...

I love what you are doing with your kitten tapestry! Gorgeous!

I think I told you I have the exact same one draped over the back of a chair in my family room. I may have to give the pillow idea a try. It would look gorgeous at the foot of my bed.

Nita Jo