And a Cherry on Top...

 

Here's a new use for an old-fashioned glass sundae dish. I was invited to fill the dish with a pincushion that would hint at an ice cream sundae. The coordinators of the raffle baskets at our recent quilt show assembled many wonderful baskets built around a theme. They received the dish as a donation and wanted to fill it sewing style. So this is what I came up with. The bottom is weighted with glass pebbles and the whole thing is topped off with a fancy beaded stick pin. 

The daughter of a guild member saw the pincushion and asked if I could make some to sell. I don't often sell things I've made... I am really stumped when it comes to putting a price on them. But she was so delighted with the pincushion that I told her I'd get started. I am awaiting the glassware for them. She has since found two sundae dishes in a thrift shop, and by chance I began by stitching these two. So when all the parts get together, the job will be completed. They look a little like giant stuffed yo-yos. One small template, shown at left, is the only pattern piece required. Eight of these wedges cut from assorted fabrics for each pincushion are stitched together, stuffed, and then embellished with embroidery floss and a T-shirt beaded ball or other topper. The idea came from "Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts" by Joelle Hoverson. It makes a unique and fun gift I'm thinking.