Dec 21, 2012

Gajit!


Hi everybody.  When I was finishing the wreath and looking through the old sewing basket, I came across the Gajit made by Pelouze from many years ago.  Completely forgot about this little tool and so glad I rediscovered it.  When measuring each side to center a finish for seaming or framing, I would try to remember - 3 little lines over from the 2" mark  ~ or whatever! 
This makes it so easy.  Just line up the point, and move the slider's point to set your distance.  Bam.  Easy!  Yes I know.  You've been using this or something similar and I'm running a mile behind in the dark.
     
This particular gauge isn't made any longer but JoAnn's has the Dritz version.  I was looking for safety pins and saw these on the notions wall.  How could I have missed them before?  $2.  Of course I bought two because I guarantee one will be lost.  I'll probably get a few more to keep with projects.  A simple tool to save time and make it so much easier to center or check spacing without having to remember those pesky little fraction lines.  
I'm still deciding on the next sampler and working on Sophia Waters (R&R Reproductions) until then. 

 She doesn't look like much on the chart, but I pictured it on dark coarse linen.  The very primitive style and multitude of errors will make a nice piece to hang from tacks with no frame. 


Page two of the instructions are missing which would have explained the chart notations, but I'm following the best I can and that's good enough.   
I chose 3031 and 3787 as the two colors on 28 count.  I have one 3787 that is very gray and the other is very brown; I chose the gray.  Here's Sophia's biography from the chart.  Sounds like she was a handful!
I hope everyone is well and will enjoy the holidays.  I used to love the store crowds along with the hustle and bustle.  How things change.  Now - I want to ram some folks with my buggy.  Ah.  Menopause.
Can't trust it.
Stay safe, hug hard, forgive most, and have a joyous and wonderful Christmas.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx



15 comments:

Bertie said...

Marly you have enlightened me with the Gajit, I do have one and must admit as never used it! But with your instructions I will!
Your decorations look wonderful!
Have a wonderful Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous 2013!
Fondly

Deb said...

Oh my goodness, I've got a couple of those things and just bet that I threw them into the sewing bin and they haven't seen the light of day in years. I'm going to have to pull them out and make full use of them. They would be perfect for so many things. I feel like smacking my head on the table not even thinking about them.

And I'm with you about wanting to ram people with my buggy, car - anything that I have. I used to love the hustle and bustle, but can't stand it any longer.

I like your sampler too - that will be very nice finished off the way you mentioned.

Nan ~ Threadwork Primitives said...

Love the sampler you're stitching. So prim and I love that. So many of us enjoy reading your blog. Thanks for a full and funny year. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Nan

cucki said...

Aww I love the sampler so much..it is so sweet..
Christmas hugs for you dear friend
Love cucki x

Unknown said...

Ugh- please let me send you the page you are missing. So sorry. Contact me through Dyeing to Stitch. I love Sopia Waters- she is one of my favorites! Love your blog....

~Judy~ said...

HA! I have a Gajit but never knew what it was called. I use it all the time...especially for hemming pants.

Sandra said...

Absolutely love the description of Sophie and what a treasure to know so much about her. She surely was a character.
I guess I am once again admitting my age, but I have one of those original gadgets. I have used mine so much that it is now a little loose. Maybe I'll have to get a new one. I love the thing and use it all the time when framing, making ornaments, sewing, etc.
Many Merry Stitches to you! Be safe and happy!
Sandra
Homespun Elegance
www.plainfancymerchant.blogspot.com

Margaret said...

Well I have no memory of such a tool and have never used one. lol! Definitely a handy one! Love the color of your Sophie. Very very pretty and soft! It's going to be a beauty.

Theresa said...

Oooo....This is the first time I pay any notice of this little tool!!!!! What a handy little tool~~~~~~

butterfly said...

What a great tool. I will have to buy one.
Again your work looks wonderful and your house with those beautiful decorations .
Warm wishes for Christmas .

Ele said...

Love the sampler you are stitching and definitely sympathize with you for the store crowds...
Have a most lovely holiday season
Elena

Chris said...

I think Sophie sounds like she was a lot of fun! Great new start.
Have a lovely weekend!

Siobhán said...

What a clever idea to use the Gajit thingie! I use a quilting square--when I can find it.

Have a wonderful Christmas!

Patty C. said...

Can't wait to see your new sampler!

TheCrankyCrow said...

Oh, THAT gajit!!! I've had one of those for years and use it relentlessly....I keep mine in my little "necessaries" holder by my chair....comes in handy for all sorts of things - including making sure your cookies are uniform in size. (Yes, I'm THAT anal....) ;o)

LOVE Sophia!! Now there's a gal after my own heart!!! And you know I like them a little rough around the edges.

That first photo of your little tree is simple perfection!! You have a mad photography talent - and an even madder decorating talent!

Hoping your Christmas was merry and bright....and your new year is filled with blessings and joys. Smiles & Hugs ~ Robin

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