I put together another set of matchy-matchy napkins (a la Bend-the-Rules Sewing) for a housewarming gift this past weekend. My old college roommate moved into her first home, and I thought she might need a few reusable napkins while she’s there. SciFi Man helped pick out the fabric.

I got two new sewing books this past week, too: Sew What! Skirts and Sew U. It may take me a little time before I can really get into them, but I’ve already leafed through them and I can’t wait until I find that time. But first, more writing (which is why the blog has been a little slow these days.)

This is a set of four handmade napkins all tied up and ready to go. I took the opportunity of a napkin swap to try out the instructions for Mixy-Matchy Napkins in Bend-the-Rules Sewing, although I guess you’d have to call this napkins Matchy-Matchy. The instructions are simple and just call for hemming the edges. Although I’ve made several different kinds of cloth napkins, this was one method I hadn’t used before. It was easy, although Amy Karol was right when she warned that it can be hard to sew over the very top of the hems, because the fabric can bunch up in your machine. I’m not thrilled that the back of the napkins is the wrong side of the fabric, but for everyday napkins it’s something I can live with. I’ll definitely be making myself a set of these.

I put together this pencil roll based on the instructions in Last Minute Patchwork + Qulited Gifts. I deviated a little bit from the instructions for the sake of saving a little time and creating something just right for my swap partner, but not so much that I didn’t get a good sense of what it’s like to make this particular pencil roll. It went together quickly and easily, and I’m certain I will be making another one in the future. The pattern calls for a layer of flannel inside the pencil roll, to give it a bit of stability and structure. I didn’t have any flannel on hand, so I used some quilt batting. It worked, but created a slightly bulkier roll that way. I’ll be sure to use flannel on the next one.

This is the first thing I’ve made from Last Minute Patchwork + Qulited Gifts, even though I’ve had the book since Christmas. The instructions were wonderfully clear and easy to follow. I don’t think I’ll wait another 7 months before I try another one!

Check out some of these giveaways I’ve come across on some of my favorite blogs lately:

• Sew Gracious is giving away a lovely tote bag. Just check out her Etsy shop and leave a comment about which item is your favorite–but hurry! The giveaway ends tonight.
• Modish is also having a giveaway and you’ll have at least two chances to win this one, because she’ll be choosing two winners. But you can also enter more than once, so you can increase your chances of winning even more. You have a chance to win a lot of cool handmade goodies.
• And finally, Kleas is having a little fat quarter giveaway to celebrate her 200th post. If you like adorable fabric, you should check this one out.