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Blanket stitch - great for applique and decorative impact

The Old Button Play On The Go © Play Scenes - Safai Zoo What is blanket stitch Blanket stitch is an edging stitch, traditionally used to finish the edges of woollen blankets (or other woven items) to stop them unravelling.  Sewn in a connected row, the stitch forms neat 3 sides boxes, with the effect of "down" side stitches connected by "top" stitches, but they are formed by looping the thread in a continuous stitch.      When used as an edging stitch, it wraps itself around the edge, with down stitches showing at the front and the back, and the top showing across the outside edge.      The Old Button felt flower brooch Securing applique As it can be eased around curves and used on angles of any shape, including internal ones, blanket stitch is also great for securing applique patches.  I use it a lot with felt, but it also works well on cotton or wool fabrics too as where it has the added benefit of catching in any fraying threads.  The Old Button heart an

Lost in Space - The Old Button Travel Play Mats


My youngest child and I watched a fantastic programme a couple of nights ago about the universe which got me thinking about my little travel play mats. These are quilted fold-up mats with appliqued and embroidered play scenes and have little toys hiding in a pocket. They are a perfect size for using on a child's lap or a plane or train table when travelling.

Each of the travel play mats I've already made has a different theme - the first one was Dinosaurs, complete with cave pocket. This play mat was bought by a lady who was sending it out to Australia so her grandson could play with it on his first airplane trip to Britain to see her. I've also made a Fairy Cottage scene which went to Germany and an Under-The-Sea scene complete with fearsome sharks


So, back to the TV programme which reminded me that I'd bought some fantastic fabric that was just perfect for a space themed play mat. It just had to be started there and then! 

With lots of critical advice from my youngest - who is a bit of an expert on matters in the sky - I cut out a slice of the moon, a world and an orange planet and laid them on this gorgeous starry fabric. I started adding some chain stitching to the planet, but got carried away so you can't see the felt circle!



 




I have recently re-launched my range of travel playmats with a Safari Zoo Play On the Go © Play Scene.  I'm currently creating a farm scene version, and working on designs for fairy castle and pirates themes too.

Made by hand in limited numbers for each theme, my playmats are available for sale on my Folksy and Etsy shops.

CE tested and marked - my play mats have been tested and meets the European toy safety requirements. Recommended for children aged 3 and above.

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