Trip Report - Spring Retreat 2016

When I worked for other people, and had an expense account when traveling. I was expected to file a trip report on return. Now I am self employed (the pay isn't great but my commute is from the kitchen to my computer), I answer only to me. So here is my trip report.

First stop, every year (not counting the Tim Hortons on the highway, for a bathroom and tea) is always the discount fabric store. I have been very good at using up my stash lately, and I needed to restock my flannel supply. This store has fabric priced from $1.99 to $9.99/m, for flannels and cottons. Since the Canadian dollar is still quite low, the new fabrics arriving from the US in the local quilt shops are $18.99/m. Those are fair prices, reflecting what the stores are paying their suppliers. However, if you don't have need of the very latest, this is the place to pick up bargains. I buy all my flannel for pillowcases. here.

I was fairly restrained, although I think I have about 6 metres of flannel in assorted colours.

On the first night of the retreat, one of the other attendees had offered to show me how to make a Sweetpea Pod.

Aren't they adorable? I made 4, but they are quite addictive, and I am sure I will be making more. They are sweet little cases, about 2 inches high and 4 inches on a side. I don't seem to have a picture of a closed pouch.

Last retreat, I took what I thought were all the supplies to make Bethany's Two Timing Tote. She had a sew along last June on her blog. During the sew along, I managed to choose my fabric. At the fall retreat, I cut the fabric, then discovered I had forgotten some things at home. This time, I checked everything before I left. I fused all the fusibles onto the correct pieces. I labeled everything. I was ready, this time.

And, I actually was ready! (Bet you thought I was going to tell you of some disaster.)

Isn't it gorgeous? It has 3 pockets on the outside.

And six on the inside.

I love a zippered top in a bag, it just feels more secure.

Bethany's pattern is great, easy to follow, and very do-able. It is a lovely large bag, that I think will make a great weekender bag. (Of course, I travel light.)

I spent all of Saturday, and most of Sunday morning on this. The others wondered what I was up to, head down, sewing all those pieces together. They were impressed with the finish. I will make this one again. Thanks, Bethany, for the free pattern.

On Monday, I was wiped. The body was busy telling me I had done too much. However, my brain was still up to a challenge. So I started a new pair of socks.

These are called Penrose Toes. 
Since I felt like I wanted to try more German short rows, after my Jane shawl, these socks are toe up, with a German short row toe and heel. Don't you love the spring green yarn?

Linking up to WIP Wednesday at the Needle and Thread Network and Needlework Tuesday at Books and Quilts