Since Christmas is just around the corner, I decided to create an advent calendar using the Album, Brackets die. Because the shapes are square, I immediately thought of pockets.
I first cut 5" square pieces, six of each of three color and seven of one color. I carefully planned out the colors on a piece of graph paper. If you look closely you can see the squares are in a diagonal color pattern. Red squares are #1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21 and 25. Pink; #2, 6, 10, 14, 18 and 22.
Once I had the pocket pieces cut I then had the Album, Bracket shapes to cut and lay out. There is a pattern here as well. I used the large bracket shape in all four corners and in the center. I used the small bracket shape for all of the even numbers. Then I used the square bracket frame for all of the remaining odd numbers. Can you see the pattern? I also had to select what colors to use in what shape. This was a more random choice with the idea of not repeating the same color combination next to each other.
Once I had everything laid out I started sewing. I did not do any applique sewing since this is a seasonal piece that should not get a lot of wear and tear. I first sewed the Album, Brackets shapes to the squares then the numbers to the bracket shapes. Finally I sewed the squares to the background as pockets and sewed along the top of the dark green backing piece to insert a dowel.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed creating it. I love my Followers so please be sure to join and then continue on through the Blog Hop using the blinkie button to the right. I'm sure there are many amazing creations and fabulous uses for this die.
This project is linked to These Creative Juices.
