What can I use to fill the baskets

[Dawn S.]

I have waited until the last minute to really put any thought into the small centerpieces for the eating tables area of our quilt show. I have been discouraged by the statement "We really don't have a budget for decorations." I was originally going to ask a nursery for donations of small plants with baskets (baskets is our main theme) but it is too close to the end of our growing season here, for them to have anything small.

Yesterday I found some placemats at the dollar store, and can make a "faux" basket by bringing in the sides, like so....





I will probably use string or yarn with a button or large knot to keep the sides pulled in, with about a two to three inch opening.

QUESTION....what the heck can I put into them that is cheap (remember it is out of my pocket) cute, creative and quick. My mind has drawn a blank here. I have 7 or 8 tables to do.

Thanks!!!!!
Dawn

[Geneva C.]

Rolled fat quarters?

Geneva

[Catherine S.]

I was thinking of the fat quarters too. Or maybe some fabric strips that could flow over the sides. I would check a dollar store and see if anything sewing related jumps out at you. I would not place anything in them that you would feel bad if it disappeared.

[Charae H.]

Dawn-- I'm thinking lollipops (stick end put in cut-to-fill-the-spaces styrofoam). Maybe they could be made to look like a flower arrangement??? Bottom of the baskets may have to be weighted. I'm assuming lollipops are still relatively inexpensive, but maybe not since it's been a while since I have indulged!

[Betty J.]

I'm thinking you need to call on the members to contribute from their home yards and gardens...just leaves, ferns, anything green or interesting vines...no flowers would be needed with these baskets.

[Dawn S.]

Thank you all!

I thought about lollypops, but know that would be enticing to a young child who might be accommodating her/his mom to the show. We probably wouldn't want sticky hands on the quilts. Greenery and foliage from the garden, unfortunately may bring with it a couple of bugs, and these baskets go on the food tables.

So, on to fabric. I have some uglies in my own stash that could be cut and rolled. If it disappears, great! It found a home where it will be loved. I think I'll also contact the two local quilt stores for a donation of their uglies. And, I can probably borrow quite a bit from our charity quilts stash. So, the cost is right, and I'll grab my walking buddies for a morning, and we can all cut and roll fabric!

Easy, peasy, cheapo!

Dawn

[Dawn S.]

Dawn,
You could go to Moda Bake Shop and print out an easy easy quilt block pattern,,,

Luann

[Dawn S.]

Could you cut your fabric into strips , preferably with pinking shears and then run a line of gathering stitches along one edge, and draw it up tight to make your flowers?

[Dawn S.]

Assorted wrapped candy.