A new toy for me

I not sure the life span of a cutting mat. I've had mine for at least 7 or 8 years and it was in pretty bad shape. I have cut so over 1000 denim squares and more than 80 flannel baby blankets. The mat is no longer self healing, it's beyond hope of healing.

I've been wanting a new cutting mat, but they are just so expensive. I found a great sale over the holiday weekend - 50% off with an additional 10% off coupon. It's a different brand than my old one, but the new one is double sided so maybe it will last twice as long (hopefully).

My old Olfa mat next to my new Fiskars mat.

My first attempt in a long time

I haven't tried machine quilting in a long time. In fact, I've only machine quilted 2 baby quilts with mediocre results so I've been hesitant to try again.

I decided to start with a very simple pattern, straight lines sewn at a 90 degree angle.

I really like how it turned out. And of course, I didn't make it for me, but I like it enough that I want to keep it. Just like all the rest I make :)