After sewing State Fair entries and Halloween costumes, my sewing machine is in slumber. It will be coming out this weekend as we will be sewing for charity. Perhaps after the weekend, we can focus on bright colors and bold designs and attempt oilcloth. I’m fascinated by the stuff. Mostly it’s the colors and patterns that lure me. The stiff, thick fabric sorta intimidates me.
Kelly McCants has sparked my interest more with her book Sewing with Oilcloth. Page after page, there are some lovely creations, and I think the versatility of it is a fabric that’s stunning inside as well as outside really revs my need to try at least one creation. The book has amazing projects and some tips and instructions that seem to boost my confidence with each read.
I don’t have a great sewing machine. After all, I bought it three years ago at Walmart. Still, McCants makes me feel I can succeed. While my sewing machine is lower-end, I hear her sharing tips to make my machine advance the oilcloth like a pro. There are tips on what tools work best on oilcloth and how to attach oilcloth bias trim–that’s some mad skills right there.
Where would I begin in this wonderland of oilcloth fun? I’m on page 49, taking in the Party Banners. I love the simplicity, and McCant’s incorporation of chalk cloth to customize the banner is brilliant! We entertain a lot, and my kiddos are banner junkies. Several made of oilcloth with the chalk cloth accent would be a bright and festive look. Even the biggest party pooper would have to pause to give notice.
The Sandwich Wrapper on page 87 looks like something I could produce even on the most chaotic days. The oilcloth is water-resistant and cleans well, plus it’s BPA and PVC-free. We use sandwich wrappers, but none are as festive as these can be. Pair this up with the Insulated Lunch bag on page 96, and you will make a beautiful lunch!
I’m hoping my deadline projects will be soon completed, and I can pull myself up to my sewing machine and sew for the tranquility, the beauty, and the oilcloth. I’ll be starting with the 20 patterns found in Kelly McCants, Sewing with Oilcloth, pioneering the medium at my home, and thinking of my grandma, who seemed to love this fabric.
*I received sewing with an oilcloth to facilitate an honest review. The opinions expressed were my own and were in no way influenced by the sponsor. Other experiences may vary.