Stephanie Socha Design

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S5 E104 Simple Summer Decor, Season 5 Finale

Chit Chat

I made another set of coasters (Pattern by Minki Kim). This time I hand embroidered the designs. I used 12 wt Aurifil thread. The prints are Cottonville fabrics and the linen is of course one of my favs Essex Linen in flax.

The photo below is one of my trays of seedlings that I moved to the back porch for the “hardening off” process to acclimate them to outdoor temps.

Sakuraco Subscription Box

I chat about this new subscription box I ordered recently. I only ordered the May box, and have not received it yet. This is designed to be a monthly subscription. The boxes contain Japanese snacks and artisan handmade ceramics or small handmade items and Japanese tea. A 24 page Culture guide booklet is also included that tells the stories of the makers of the month and descriptions of the snacks. I am really looking forward to see what ceramic, tea and snack goodies will be in my box. If it turns out to be good, I may order more boxes.

Sakura Co Subscription box

Steam fast Mini Iron Recall


This is my Oliso Mini Iron. You can see the nice pointed tip for precision pressing. The two side buttons engage the steam. The slightly indented gray section is the “grip” you cannot really call it a handle. It does tend to get a little hot when the iron has been on a while. I turn the heat dial down to medium when this happens. There is no auto shut-off, which I have not had an issue with. It can be turned off with the dial, and I also like to unplug the mini iron at the end of the sewing session.

I was frustrated with this iron when I first got it and could not understand the hype. Due to necessity and investment level, I kept using it, and it is a powerful little iron which is another reason I kept using it. Now, I have gotten used to using new grip design, and figured out how to keep the heat controlled. Now, I understand the “hype” a bit better. Plus the pretty colors are a big plus.

Simple Summer Decor

Below are the links to resources I talk about in this episode:

Quilted Sofa covers:Wayfair

Home Dec fabrics: Onlinefabricstore.com : Look for fabric lines like Premier Prints, P.Kaufman, Kravet, etc.

Quality scented candles. My summer favorite is Aloha Orchid. Volcano is also a year round favorite. Capri Blue

Classic Belgian Linen Drapery panels from Pottery Barn:  https://www.potterybarn.com/products/spo-classic-belgian-linen-drape-dark-flax/ 

Sheer drapery panels with Pom pom trim: I have not tried these yet, but have seen them on YouTube. They are super inexpensive, and worth a try for the bedroom or anywhere. https://a.co/d/h5ZCLyM

Print your own artwork on this canvas art paper and frame it for unique wall decor. PPD Inkjet Canvas 100% Real Printable Cotton LTR 8.5 x 11 125lbs. 340gsm 17mil x 20 sheets (PPD083-20) https://a.co/d/akTijdi

Try painting picture frames with a beautiful metallic color from Michaels.  https://www.michaels.com/product/americana-decor-metallics-paint-10487602

Terrain is a source of fresh houseplants, flowers and faux flowers, wreaths etc. https://www.shopterrain.com/categories/fresh-foliage-and-succulents

What I’m Watching

Hulu/National Geographic:  Secrets of the Elephants 4 episode documentary narrated by Natalie Portman.

Netflix:  The Diplomat - Best new show of the year.  Rookie US ambassador to the UK and loads of international political drama.

Netflix: K Drama:  Cleaning with a passion for now.  Drama/romantic comedy

PBS and Prime:  The Unforgotton: UK cold case detective show 

What I will Watch Saturday 5/6/23: Coronation of King Charles III