Last year we had to cut a few limbs off our cherry tree and one day it occurred to me that the branches were the perfect diameter for children's blocks.
The blocks have been done (cut, sanded, oiled) for ages but I finally made the bag today. Canvas, lined in green cotton, with a tree applique and cinching ribbon closure.
I should warn you that if you're making blocks, use EXTREME caution cutting an irregular branch on a miter saw (or you could easily cut the wrong kind of limb). I came darn close to some serious bloodshed but escaped with bruising and a broken saw safety guard.
Much safer to just play with them. (it was REALLY hot here today so Biscuit was keeping the clothing to a minimum. I swear, I usually dress her)
Despite the near loss of limb*, I'm enjoying branching* out of the sewing room and into the woodshop. I've got a few more wood projects up my sleeve. Stay tuned.
*Two puns in one sentence!
The blocks and the bag are just lovely! Thank goodness you didn't cut the wrong thing. An old friend of mine is missing a thumb from just such an accident. He deals with it but I'm sure it's not fun.
Posted by: Julie | September 02, 2007 at 02:36 AM
Those blocks are beautiful! The bag is beautiful! The combination is breathtaking! I can't STAND your ideas, they are TOO MUCH for my mathy, non-creative brain!
Posted by: Swistle | September 02, 2007 at 05:11 AM
Cute bag and the blocks might just be easier/safer to buy, eh? Hope the heat dies down. We are having a couple of "cool" days, thankfully.
Posted by: farfromca | September 02, 2007 at 05:27 AM
They are great-both the bag and the blocks-and they will be a treasure for years to come. Someday, Biscuit's little Biscuits will be playing with them (not that you want to think about that yet:)!
Posted by: erika | September 02, 2007 at 07:23 AM
I adore the bag the blocks go in, so cute! Where did you get the wood grain fabric?
Posted by: Sarah | September 02, 2007 at 12:02 PM
what a great idea using cherry tree limbs for blocks!
Posted by: angeljoy | September 03, 2007 at 12:10 PM
What a cute idea-the blocks and the bag. Thank goodness you didn't loose a limb (yours anyway!:) )
Posted by: Richelle F | September 03, 2007 at 03:52 PM
Very cute! If your cherry tree ever needs more pruning, you should make some blocks to sell. (Or maybe it's not worth risking bodily harm?)
Posted by: KristaMB | September 03, 2007 at 11:08 PM
love the bag!
Posted by: Yay Toast | September 04, 2007 at 02:30 PM
damn! cute bag and lovely idea!
Posted by: minnie | September 10, 2007 at 11:37 AM