Laundry Hamper

I've discovered that my collection of vintage sheets can be used for much more than making quilts. Finding a stand with four TV trays at a thrift store led to what I think is the perfect eco-friendly item. Other than the thread, nothing new had to be purchased to make these up-cycled laundry hampers.

I loved this one which used the decorative top edge of the sheet for the top edge of the bag. A sheet with similar colours was used for the lining.

This bag has more of a masculine look to it with the large green, navy and purple plaid and polka dot interior.

Other combinations of sheets produced different looks.....

Reclaimed Sheets

I have put together quite a collection of vintage sheets over the past couple months. Time now to put them to good use!

This delicate little blanket is designed with ties to attach to a stroller but would work equally well as a crib quilt. The ties could be easily removed by unpicking the stitches that attach them to the quilt, but the ties provide a great solution to the problem of keeping baby covered while sleeping..... just tie them to the crib rails.

Another  more retro looking sheet produced a totally different quilt. Each block is bordered with a soft green sashing, all of which is surrounded with a border of pieced rectangles. The back is a delicate print sheet providing a romantic shabby chic look to the reverse of the quilt. 

Let's Have a Picnic

Lately I find myself browsing through thrift shops in search of fabric more often than I shop at my local fabric store. I have fallen in love with the feel and look of vintage sheets which take on a faded appearance and a silky softness from repeated washings. These sheets have been up-cycled into practical aprons, functional tea cozies, festive buntings and the most romantic of quilts. But my latest use for quilts was this picnic set. How cute is this??

You can have a picnic anywhere and at any time of year. Spread a quilt, unpack a basket full of  thrift shop find dishes, unfold a napkin, even hang a bunting, and a simple picnic becomes a memorable event!!