Last week QuiltWorks put out a call for mini class ideas. It took me a few days to come up with an idea, but I think these are so much fun and quick to do that they'll work perfectly. These mini classes are intended to be small projects that can be done perhaps as holiday gifts.
These three are made to fit a standard US composition book, which means they'd be perfect for any age of student, journaler or artist. I started with a tutorial I found online, but made my own changes, such as adding interfacing so they are a little sturdier than they would be otherwise. These three are made with an oatmeal colored cotton/linen blend as a base, then scraps of commercial and hand dyed fabrics are used for the applique.
I also had fun with the sketchbook approach. I love the sketchy black lines. In the case of the horse and owl, I used actual sketches from my journals to make the designs. The bird I drew out free hand and it's definitely more stylized. I happen to really love the more quirky designs myself.
Also, I've been trying out writing words when I do my machine quilting on some projects and thought it would be fun to add here. The secret is to go over your lines multiple times. Once or twice just doesn't look as good in my opinion.
I added pockets to one of the covers, but they all have a ribbon book marker.
This last one is done on a smaller journal and uses Osnaburg fabric for the base. I've figured out how to measure and fit any size of journal. It's also a less ambitious cover design which might appeal to some. I'll let you know when the class gets scheduled.