There in Spirit and Kits!

Many of my sewing friends are gathering in Norfolk, Virginia for the opening day of this year's Smocking Arts Guild of America Convention.

My wonky eyes may keep me from attending in person, but a little of me is there in spirit by way of Wee Care Bonnet kits!

I first shared in this post that I was making kits for these tiny little bonnets.

I completed the pleating, as well as rolling and whipping the narrow lace edging.

A casing was stitched, with ribbon inserted, to gather the back of each tiny bonnet.

During Convention, attendees will be able to simply add a few rows of smocking along the brim, and a beautiful wee bonnet will be completed!

In order for the bonnet to be smocked, each little kit also included a skein of white embroidery floss, ribbon to attach as streamers so the bonnets may be tied under the chin, needles and a sweet surprise!

Normally, I cut heart or flower shapes from craft felt as needle holders.  I recently spied these cute little felt pumpkin cutouts in a craft store and decided they were perfect as needle holders!

Here is one Wee Care Bonnet Kit ready to go!

It joined a stack of others which a dear friend transported to Convention for me.  Fabric, a shabby chic sewing basket, patterns, smocking plates and miscellaneous sewing notions had already been donated and shipped from my store to join other wonderful donations for the fabulous Wee Care raffle basket.  It, along with other baskets overflowing with stitching delights of every type, will be raffled during Banquet on the final night of Convention.    

I wish all my friends safe travels, wonderful moments of learning, fun visiting with old friends, the joy of making new friends, and a winning ticket for your favorite raffle basket!

To my dear readers and friends, I want to say thank you for the continued outpouring of encouragement and support regarding my vision.  The last few days have been exceptionally difficult.  I am afraid the double vision is worsening, instead of improving.  I am adjusting and preparing for possible life altering changes in the near future --  kicking and screaming all the way!  I will not give up seeking solutions.  I simply must accept my life is now different.  I will never be able to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for accompanying me on this journey.