Next month, some friends of mine from New York are expecting their second child. Being on the opposite coast makes it a bit difficult to attend baby showers and all of the other fun things involved with a friend’s pregnancy.  Not being able to be present made me want to send an extra special gift, and what’s more special than a handmade one?

When I started working at Connecting Threads, I fell in love with so many of the fabrics, however, the soft and cuddly Wild Ones flannel really appealed to me. The only problem is, I don’t have any kids nearby who could enjoy it.  Then it hit me – I can make a gift for the coming baby!  Now comes the next problem…what to make. This is the dilemma that usually prevents me from actually starting a new sewing project (or any other craft project for that matter) because I can never decide on a pattern.  Luckily, Melissa, the Director of Connecting Threads, mentioned a new book that we just got in called Fabric-by-Fabric One Yard Wonders.  

As I browsed through it, an adorable swaddling blanket pattern made out of flannel immediately stood out.  It was the perfect gift to make (especially for my skill level!) and I would finally have a use for the Wild Ones flannel.  For the project, I am using the Alphabet Party design in the Brick color.  It's so cute and my friends will love the little peacocks on it.

This weekend, I will be tackling the project in hopes that bias tape and I can get along well enough to put together this simply adorable swaddling blanket for the new baby. Hoping for the best!