Finnish Independence Day 2016
Coatless
Min begged for a new winter coat for a special celebration today!!
Felt
So, inspired by the felt stars, I dug out the very useful felt coat pattern and started to stitch.
beads
I tried to get most of the applique done before stitching up the side seam.
seam finishing
I sewed the seams using back-stitches, and then overcast the seam allowances, attaching them to the coat proper. With the fabric being felt, this step wasn’t necessary to prevent raveling, but it was helpful to reduce bulk – especially in the sleeves.
Turquoise buttons
The best match for buttons wasn’t quite the right colour of blue…
Turquoise highlights
…so I finished the edges of the coat in turquoise thread.
Happy Independence Day Finland!
Happy 99 years of Independence, Finland!
Two candles are lit and placed in the window on Finnish Independence Day, a signal that people would find a safe haven in the house during times of oppression. May many candles be lit tonight!
On Finnish Independence Day 2011 Constance and Tansy became involved in a great Reindeer Saga. Starting from the bottom, the entire story can be seen by following this link
A great on-line Finnish Advent Calendar can be found here…
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Quimper Hittys 
Min’s little coat is a masterpiece. I’m not overstating this…a masterpiece!!! It’s one of a kind…and jaw droppingly sweet, artistic, and gorgeous.
The candle’s look so soft and welcoming in the little house’s window sill…it certainly is a safe haven. Happy Independence Day, Finland.
Thank you very much, we really enjoyed sewing on the coat, and Min is gratifyingly joyful to have it! The two candle tradition is nice.
Once again, I am awestruck by the beauty and charm of your creations. You are such a treasure! Thank you, thank you! ❤
You are welcome, truly. We like sewing!
Completely charming! Your work in the museum SURELY is rubbing off in your own work. I agree with Mary Anne, you have created a folkloric masterpiece…my favorite types. Thank you for the beauty.
You could be right – and fortunately the stitcher’s dollys don’t go bare in this house!
Lucky, lucky Min – her beautiful coat is a marvelous addition to her wardrobe!
Min is very pleased. She thinks Constance should order one to wear when going to the opera!
such a lovely coat on a lovely little girl. The candles in the window and the symbolism they represent…safe harbor. What a wonderful message for this time of year. And of course I totally enjoyed being reminded of the Great Reindeer Saga!! Thank you!!
I was so glad to indulge Min, who has been very patient. I finally noticed that not all that many clothes have been made lately that fit her (except for the bee costume earlier this summer), and she looks so cute in that little coat!
the coat is a work of art, perfect for Min.
She loves it! I am glad you think it is perfect for her – we like looking at her wearing it so cheerfully!
Min looks warm and cozy.
She sure is!