Shaggy Doormat!

I have had a bit of fun at the sewing machine this morning! I am in need of a new doormat

and have been inspired by one I saw at Dear Friend Pat's, last week.

I know most of you have done some 'shaggies' over the years - however, I think it's nice to resurrect old styles and techniques from time to time. It is well over 4 years since I made our littlest twins their baby blankies using this style, so thought I would do a re-try and maybe make it a little quicker and easier this time.

I used the same backing for all squares ($3/metre at Spotlight), cotton wadding and the top some lovely old Reproductions once again.

I cut the wadding finished square sizes, i.e. 7 inches for the large squares and 3 1/2 inches for the small squares.

The backing and top squares I cut 8 1/2 inches and 5 inches respectively, this leaving me 3/4 inch seam allowance all around. This meant I didn't have to stress my hand cutting through the wadding layer as well as the top and backing when I snipped to create the fringing effect.

I used smallish dabs of the water-soluble gluestick to fix the 3 layers together.

Then I quilted with just a normal machine stitch from corner to corner on each square.

Next I joined the squares in 3 rows, right side up, with a 3/4 inch seam allowance. I found it easier to work with if I pressed all seams open.

Check the layout above. I used a triple strength stitch to go around the perimeter, 3/4 inch in from the edge, to form the outer fringe. Then I snipped all seam allowances at roughly 1/2 inch intervals. Of course, then it was into the washing machine and dryer!

Voila! Now I have a nice, bright, new doormat! It measure 35 inches by 21 1/2 inches and this is the perfect size for me. I will probably cut a piece of non-slip to size to lay under the mat.

Off to shop for dinner, now - 'bye!

PS - is anyone else having problems with line-spacing or is it only me!