A fortnight ago I came across a bit of embroidery that was half done and hiding underneath a cascade of fabric.

As I was in an 'efficient-housewife' mood I took it upon me to not only finish the embroidery bit but to also turn it into something practical. That same night, as I laid down my scissors and needles, I was marveling at this:

Oh I was, still am for that matter, so chuffed. It's sweet. It's cute. It's practical. Mission accomplished.

A pillowcase. Made to measure to fit a small toddler pillow.

The front is a plain white cotton on which a patchwork band sits at about 2/3rds down the right hand side. The different pink fabrics, the white eyelet lace and the embroidery are complemented by a hand crocheted brighter pink picot edging. Granted, crocheting 218 stitches with a 1.25mm needle is tedious but fortunately my efficient mood could see the benefits of the delicate result I was aiming for.

The back, and the inner envelope part to close the pillow case, are made from the soft pink with white dots fabric that runs underneath the white eyelet lace.

I was thinking of putting this one up in the shop.

And then my youngest offspring entered the room. She headed straight for it and announced:" Oh mum, what a magnificent pillow case you made for me. I just looooooove the pink. I'll sleep on those ballerina's straight away tonight."

Given the utter disappointment that started to show on her face as I began to mutter:" Yes, well hang on dear, actually...",

a change of plans unfolded. It's now on her bed.

She claims the ballerina's tell her that she can keep her eyes wide open during the night, which she then does. All night long. According to her. And the ballerina's.

But as long as she and the ballerina's are quitely keeping their eyes wide shut I'm fine with that.

But as for my plans, what do you think... Should I make another one to go in the shop?