Notes From Ellen

April showers bring May flowers, or so they say. But if you haven’t had much rain yet this year, we’re bringing you plenty of flowers with this issue of CME. Floral designs are prevalent in the pages of this issue, showcased on everything from garments to accessories to home-dec items. We never tire of floral motifs, which is why we also created new floral designs for the latest exclusive CME embroidery design collection, available at www.sewingdistrict.com/store.

If your counting the hours waiting for summer to arrive, step into your sewing room. Numerous holidays and occasions sneak up on you over the summer months, so it’s wise to get a head start on a few personalized presents for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations and upcoming weddings. A keepsake quilt is always a favorite to give and receive; check out “Basics: Quilting & Embroidery” (page 16) for some expert placement and design tips.

If you’re looking for other original gifts to make for Mom, Dad or Grad, check out “Carry-All Caddy” (page 46), “Family Ties” (page 42) or “Fast Forward: Picnic Throw” (page 26) for ideas. Sewing rather than buying gifts is a great way to save money. And we’re all looking for clever ways to reduce our spending these days! In this issue’s “Budget Friendly,” we’ll show you how to make a purse for $8 or less using items from your stash and a little imagination—see page 28. The purse pattern is free online at cmemag.com.

If you’re looking to spend instead of save because your tax return is burning a hole in your pocket, look to the spring runway collections for inspiration. Purchase some luxurious fabric and take your embroidery machine to new heights. We’re giving you a taste of the high-fashion world with a couture-inspired suit on page 60. This bold embroidered ensemble is sure to turn some heads and gives new meaning to the words “power suit.” Enjoy this issue and let us know what you think!

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Orange Border Flower (modified) available at www.sewingdistrict.com/store.