My son walked in the other day with news that the construction that has begun across the street will be a seven story apartment building. I have three windows in my living room that face the street and the construction. Granted, I doubt there will be much construction before spring, but like my son said, when the building is occupied, unless I get some curtains on the windows in my second floor apartment, I will be living in a goldfish bowl.
Minnesota gets a bit nippy in the winter. Blizzards are not uncommon. Below zero temps for days on end are the norm. I have found that even though my windows are new, they still can be a little bit drafty when the wind is strong. Many people use plastic to keep out the winter cold, but I don't much care for that solution. I decided to make three window quilts to fit the windows.
I am making scrap quilts, using the fabric scraps I have leftover from other projects. I also have a number of cream colored sheets that can be used for the backs of the quilts. I can use tie backs to let in light during the day. There are enough sheets to also make curtain panels to use in the warmer months.
I suppose I could have just purchased thermal drapes, but I really like the idea of using what I have on hand. My bank account likes it, too. The only thing I need buy is the batting for the window quilts. This is good practice for a time when we may have to learn to make do with what we have.
I will post pictures when the quilts are finished, but don't hold your breath. Making quilts take time. I do hope to finish them by the time the temperatures head downward. It is not unusual to have snow by Thanksgiving, so I had better get busy. :)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I really like being able to do a new project with things we have on hand, Vickie. Great example! I look forward to the pictures.
ReplyDeleteHappy sewing, Fern
Fern...Reminds me of the saying from the Depression - "Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without." My parents knew how to 'make do' and I think they passed that trait on to me. :)
DeleteI remember us and other country folks putting quilts and blankets over windows and unused doors in the depths of winter. Your might try sheers on your windows, too. Unless you have lights on during the day, it will keep your new neighbors from seeing in during daylight hours.
ReplyDeleteGorges...I remember the quilts and blankets hung at doors and windows, too. Sheers is a good idea, but I have enough of the sheet fabric to make curtains for the warmer months. They are light colored and I can tie them back if I need to. Saves me from having to go buy curtains.
DeleteVicki, I love your new creative project! I am not so sure I like the idea of a seven story apartment building being erected in your neighborhood and more people...ugh! But since you can't stop the building project, your project will go a long way in making your life more comfortable. Thank you for the update.
ReplyDeleteWe are to receive our first dusting of snow tonight and more later in the week. Getting snow this early in the season makes for a long drawn out winter. It will also make harvest a bit more challenging too.
I will look forward to your pictures. Take care, CW
CW...I am not overjoyed with an apartment building across the street either, but nobody asked my opinion. :) Who knows. It might just bring some business into the downtown area where I live.
DeleteWe have snow flurries forecast for later this week, but nothing more substantial, thank Heaven. Hope it holds off until you have finished with the harvest.
I would hate quilts over windows because the light would be blocked. Could you use bubble wrap to block the view and still let in light? I would rather bundle up and have daylight. At my house I had a huge picture window so I could see birds, leaves on the trees, flowers, the wind blowing, sunshine. But, that is me.
ReplyDeleteLinda...I don't mind my view being blocked because all I have to look at out my windows are other buildings, the street and an alley. I can always tie the quilts back during the day if I want more light. Me...I would rather be warm when the snow falls, the temps drop and the winter winds blow.
DeleteBatting from Louisville Slugger?? talk about a hit.
ReplyDeleteKnow one can say you don't stay busy.
Louisville Slugger - good one!
DeleteI don't ever want to be one of those old ladies who sits on the couch, remote in hand, watching game shows and soap operas. I would rather be making things - doing things - anything but that. :)
Soap operas and game shows would lower my IQ! I would rather do things, too.
DeleteGood idea Vicki. I've had a long set of curtains in my entry hall for years. That way I can open the door without having people see any further into the living room. You can always put up sheer draperies underneath that will let the light in and heavier to close for privacy. How many units and ask your son about parking and who might be moving in once they are completed. Red
ReplyDeleteRed...I'm not too concerned about daytime - it is the nighttime privacy I want. That and keeping the apartment a little warmer in winter.
DeleteWe only know the building is supposed to be a 7 story apartment building. I have no clue about details. We have been a bit curious about parking for the lot doesn't seem large enough for both a building that size and a parking lot. Maybe underground. Guess I won't know until it is built.
If I had your skills, I'd make them, too! That is fantastic! I can't wait to see them. :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks, LindaG...Makes sense to me to use up what I have on hand rather than just rush out and buy something. Besides, sewing is something I really enjoy. It will be awhile before they are finished. Pictures then. :)
Delete