Modern Mini Challenge

I tossed around ideas.  I wasn't sure what to do.


All I knew is that I wanted to challenge myself to do at least one mini this year!

I have only have done two quilts that are mini ever in my quilting life.  Not to include the quilted throw pillows.


Warning: I have never made a "Mug Rug"!

When I bought this card for my husband for Valentine's, I almost didn't want to sign it and put into the envelope...it was too cute!

I loved the heart, the idea of a tree trunk, and the raised embossing on the card.  I confiscated it before he knew it!

For my mug rug, I appliqued a heart on some beige fabric.  Embroidered "You + Me" in white.

Embroidered the quote in black with a few French Knots.

Took my mini to the sewing machine and used a REALLY heavy weight polyester thread to get the raised effect.

A teeny tiny binding.  Only 1/4 of an inch wide on both sides.

And for the backing, I used one of my earlier attempts at using a zig zag for the heart that I just wasn't happy with!  I decided to cover the other backing because the heavy weight thread was obnoxious on the back.  And it gave it a bit more thickness!

I hope Mr. Boss likes it. 
 Because I am keeping the card in my studio and he is getting the mug rug for his desk at work. 


I need the card for a BIG quilt idea...
because, frankly, I don't think I was very good at the 5 x 5 inch version!

Check out the other entries at Ellison Lane Quilts. I am not even going to pretend that I am actually a competitor.  I am not even sure it is considered "modern".  

I just enjoyed the challenge!