lorna doone

BBB Pants in Giraffe Fleece

2011-08-31T17:31:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, I made another pair of Rae's Big Butt Baby Pants. These are done in fleece from my stash. These are my third pair of BBBs. The pattern sews up quickly and is perfect for fun kid prints.

These were cut in the 12 month size, but in the spring they were too large for my nephew ...and now that fall weather is approaching and the boy is growing, the pants are likely too small! In an attempt to make them still wearable, I cut off the bottom hems and added the 3 inch gray bands to the legs.

How cute is this giraffe??!

The Crepe

2011-08-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

So. I didn't quite adhere to Gertie's Crepe Sewalong schedule. I started with Gertie in December....and finished nearly eight months later. I just didn't want to rush things...or more accurately, I am a procrastinator who allowed the near-finished dress to hang on my dressform for months because I hate hemming. The pattern is the Crepe by Colette Patterns. My fashion fabric is a medium-weight cotton purchased from Denver Fabrics online (still available here). The navy and cream cross-hatch pattern is set on the diagonal and is incredibly flattering and wearable. I underlined the entire dress with a navy cotton batiste to add body and opaqueness to the dress.

Along the way, I made a few adjustments to the construction to make the dress my own and suit my personal style. The simplest alteration was adding length to the ties (about 6 inches) so that I could tie them in front rather than back. I knew that a back bow wasn't my style necessarily and would not allow me to add a cardigan on top. I also removed the curve from the sweetheart neckline. Finally, I cut about 3 1/2 inches from the skirt length for a knee-length hem.

I hesitated adding the pockets concerned about adding bulk in the hip area, but they really are *essential* to making this a great dress. I love them...not that you can tell from my so-so expression in the picture!

Fitting the bodice of my Crepe was a long process. My first issue was that I just started with the wrong size. I cut my first bodice muslin as a 10 and quickly realized my mistake. Next I cut an 8 and still made many adjustments. Some of my adjustments were apparently lost during transfer to my pattern, because once the fashion fabric was cut and the bodice sewn, there were still significant fit issues to overcome. At that point, in my head, I heard Tim Gunn saying "make it work"... and that I did. I just started pinching and tucking the excess fabric and realized I could carry those tucks directly into the line of the sleeves (on both the bodice front and back) creating a more flattering sleeve shape in the process. An unorthodox method, but it somehow worked for me! With the busy fabric it is difficult to see what I did, so I will take some detailed pictures another day and show the adjustments.

The new sleeve shape and neckline is much more flattering for me.

I love the finished look that the underlining adds. This was my first time following the steps of a sewalong and I learned some great techniques, such as underlining and using silk organza to stabilize the neckline. Because I enjoyed Gertie's instruction, I recently purchased her online Perfect Fit Bombshell Dress class on Craftsy.

Simple Skirt in Madras

2011-08-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

A month or so ago, I whipped up a skirt for my daughter using Dana's Simple Skirt tutorial. The fabric is a super-soft madras I scored on clearance at Hancock for $2/yard.

Elastic waist skirts are a nice instant-gratification project. And so easy for little girls to wear in summer.

I addded a 3 inch ruffle hem. Since I cut the fabric on the bias, I kept the edges raw so they would fray nicely after washing. Easy. Cute. Done.

A Simple Summer Top :: McCalls 5388

2011-05-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

McCalls 5388 is my one entry in Rae's Spring Top Sewalong for 2011. I had grand plans to put some of my fabric and patterns to use, but found no time for execution! The fabric is a cotton lawn I picked up in Joann's red tag area for $1/yard a couple of years ago. It is quite light and soft and will make for a cool, breezy top in the summer heat.

The pattern is straightforward. I sewed View C but skipped the ruffles, so the top is really quite simple. For the back, I cut two pieces to allow for a swayback adjustment. (Sorry, no rearview pics; my 5 year old photographer only snapped a few at my request. Note, having a shorty take your photos is not flattering for the ol' double chin....) If you are planning to sew one of these up, know that the neckline is as low as the pattern envelope photo shows. I cut a size 10 (and wear an 8 in RTW clothing), but once finished I realized I should have cut a smaller size since the front was falling foward and exposing quite a bit when bent over. Since I had already bound the armhole and shoulder seams in bias tape, I did not want to pick the seams apart. Instead, I took vertical tuck in the center of the front yoke. (Later, I will add a close-up photo to show this.) With the gathered bodice, the tuck blends right in. The final fit is much better with the small adjustment.

Quick Kid Projects

2011-04-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, I made these Composition Book Covers for my daughter and niece using two fabrics from Amy Butler's Love collection. I just winged the pattern based on the book measurements. If you look closely you'll notice that I sewed the pencil pouch upside down on my daughter's! No worries, it still holds the pencil snugly. This fleece robe is from New Look 6847, a versatile patttern, with options for unisex kids robe and pajamas (woven bottoms and knit tops). So far, I have only sewn the robe pattern.The fleece was chosen by my daughter at our local Hancock Fabric. I let her choose anything she wanted (but did strategically steer her away from the licensed character prints!). I have found that fleece is so easy to work with. Fleece edges don't fray, so for the pockets, I just pinked the edges and topstitched the pockets right onto the robe. When sewing with fleece, I have used a regular straight stitch, although I've read that a stretch stitch is best. Rather than make loops to hold the belt, I just stitched it right to the back of the robe. One of my robes is finished this way and it makes so much sense, rather than always matching the belt to the robe after laundering or constantly rethreading the belt through the loops...especially for a little person.

Ruffled Halter Dress

2011-04-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

In eager anticipation of summer weather, I made my daughter a summer dress. The pattern is the Ruffled Halter by Oliver + S, featured in Stitch Magazine Spring 2010 and available for free download. The pattern is actually a top, so for my dress version, I added an additional 4-5 inches of length to the bodice pieces and added a fourth ruffle. This came together quickly and is cute on my daughter. My model was not in the mood tonight, so the climbing wall will suffice as a backdrop! The fabric is Monarch in Tangerine from Valori Well's Del Hi line. The orange is a welcome addition in a closet overrun with pink and purple! A nice feature of this pattern is that the bias-cut ruffles can be left with a raw edge...quck and easy. I cut a large. My daughter has just moved out of 5T and now in a girls XS or 5. The dress is plenty big; you can see the elastic is quite scrunched along the back to fit. I left about two inches extra on the end of the elastic so the dress can grow with her.

I have not made many clothes for my daughter in the past - probably the opposite of most sewists with little girls - because it was so easy to find cute clothes for her as a baby and toddler. Now that she has moved into Girl sizes, I'm finding the styles to be less appealing....read: too "tween" for our tastes...she's still our baby :) With this in mind (and a ridiculous fabric stash staring at me) I see more little girl clothes in my future, especially ones that sew up this quickly.

Kitschy Kitchen Apron

2011-01-13T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is the Kitschy Kitchen Apron from the One Yard Wonders book. If you are in need of a straightforward, instant-gratification project, this book is full of options. Since I've used so much Amy Butler fabric lately, I took a break and used this butterfly print from Tina Given's Treetop Fancy. The dot is something I picked up at Hancock fabric a year or so ago...and super cheap as the dots are way wonky after washing. I didn't even attempt to align the dots when cutting. The flirty ruffle detail is super cute!
I am loving this color combination. My fabric stash is heavy on oranges and greens, so it is nice to use some fresh colors. The colors are best represented in the first photo at the top. (Boo for dark winter evenings that don't allow for natural light photos after work.) As with most aprons, this pattern is simple and easy to execute. I added the contrast band at the hem for additional interest. I cut a strip the same dimensions as the waistband and applied with the same method to make the bottom hem feel neat and finished. With the added band, this apron hits me (~5' 3" height) just below the knee.

I attached the apron ties to the front of the waistband rather than the back for a different look. These buttons were purchased for another project that never came to fruition and the color matches perfect. I love when things work out so easily!

By the way, these photos were taken in my brand new sewing space!! We just finished our basement and I was able to claim a room to be all mine. I'm super-excited and once the room is organized, I will do a big reveal here. Yay for dedicated creative space.

Pillows in Amy Butler

2011-01-02T17:20:00.000-08:00

I made these pillows for my mother-in-law for Christmas. They were well overdue as she picked out the fabric from my stash last Christmas! The design is similar to the pillows I made for our family room in late 2009.

Other than the brown linen, all of the fabrics are Amy Butler from my stash - the main fabric is Geisha Fans in Clay (Lotus Collection), the accent is Seeds in Okra (Belle Collection) and the stripe is Oxford Stripe (Lotus Collection).

Coloring Wallets

2010-12-22T12:13:00.001-08:00

These coloring wallets were made at a friend's request. She is gifting them to her nieces for Christmas. The design is a basic crayon roll enlarged to hold colored pencils or markers and with a pocket to hold a standard size scratch pad. I love the interior fabric, Always Peace by Michael Miller, designed to look like doodling on notebook paper. The main exterior fabrics are both from Amy Butler.

Gertie's Crepe Sew Along - I'm in!!

2010-12-02T10:17:00.001-08:00

When Gertie announced her Crepe Sew Along, I already had the pattern onhand as I ordered it shortly after the release by Colette Patterns. My sewing mojo is slowly coming back, so a sewalong is just what I need. I am excited to learn new techniques from Gertie - such as fitting a muslin, adding an underlining, staying the neckline with organza, etc. The sew along will feature View 2 above with contrasting waistband/ties and a sweetheart neckline. I am leaning toward the scoop neckline of View 1 rather than a sweetheart....we'll see once I cut out my muslin.

These two fabrics were ordered from Denver Fabrics as main fabric options for my dress. The large floral is a mediumweight stretch cotton poplin and the navy/cream cross-hatch print is a lightweight cotton...sort of between a voile and shirting. There are many prints that I love out there in the online fabric world, but I stayed realistic about which prints I can actually see myself wearing. These two fit the bill. I also made sure to choose apparel fabric with enough drape to be dress-appropriate.

I love both fabrics, but am thinking that the large floral might work better in a more structured dress rather than the wrap style of the Crepe pattern. I also think the diaganol pattern of the navy/cream fabric will be flattering (~slimming~) for the fuller skirt of the Crepe. Okay, I think I've talked myself into the navy/cream fabric...now to decide on what to use as the contrast waistband and ties. I can either go safe and keep the dress neutral with a solid navy, or I can do something more daring with another solid color or print. Hmmm....

I also need to pick up cotton batiste for the underlining, organza for the stay technique, etc. i'm exciting to get started!

Snow White - Simplicity 2817

2010-11-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 2817 for my sweet girl. Of course, I think she's the cutest Snow White...ever! I actually bought this pattern over a year ago during a Hancock 99 cent sale. The two blue fabrics are cotton/poly broadcloth. The yellow and pink were picked up from the bargain table....a polyester of some sort, I assume.

The pattern was fairly easy to follow and offered me some new challenges - piping, applique, sewing with "slippery" fabrics. I made only a few adjustments to the pattern, adding velcro closure rather than a zipper (easier for playing), forgoing the bow on the headband, and not adding the stand-up white collar around the cape. The bodice runs a bit big, but that will help the dress stay in dress-up rotation for a year or two.

We were rushing to go to the zoo for Hallzooween one Sunday and I ran into *issues* making the white collar. My daughter tried on the cape and said "I think it looks finished without the white part". I hugged and kissed her and told her that she made my week! I also grew tired of fussing with the hem....and decided to cut it with the pinking blade of my rotary cutter! It works just fine without a proper hem. I may finish the hem at some point, or I may not!

Big Butt Baby Pants

2010-08-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

Awesome name for a pattern, isn't it? If you follow Made by Rae, you have probably seen Rae's new pattern for Big Butt Baby Pants. Although my only "baby" who just started kindergarten (insert sad mom face here) can no longer fit this pattern, there are babies in my extended family....who may or may not be big-butted. Guess what? They are getting new pants in the near future!

The pattern is available as a pdf download, includes two pattern pieces and is sized for newborn to 2T. The pattern offers variations for foldable cuffs and butt ruffles. Rae will post instructions for pockets. The back insert allows for easy fitting over cloth diapers...thus the big butt name.

The main fabric is "XOXOXO, The Cat" by Wendy Slotboom for In the Beginning Fabrics, ordered sometime last year. The accent fabric is a quilting cotton purchased at Hancock. the print reminds me of martini olives! Cheers!

HUGE Pool Bag

2010-08-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

My sister asked me to make a pool/beach bag. Her one request was that the finished bag be huge enough to hold all the neccessities for her family of four's trip to the pool.

I knew that IKEA fabrics were the way to go, since my sister wanted a fun print and sturdy bag. Constanca inspired me with her beach bag made with the same Fredrika fabric. I drafted a pattern in a similar shape. For the interior, I used IKEA's striped Sofia canvas and included a large pocket (12"x16") and key fob. I added some interfacing to beef up the handles but did not add any to the body of the bag since I used the heavier fabrics.

The finished size is nearly 24" x 36"! Yes, large enough for four towels, dry clothes, diapers, snacks, purse....or a couple of toddlers!

Bathroom Makeover. Fabric related....but no sewing!

2010-08-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

Dusting off the blog...I won't blabber on about the many unfinished, unsatisfying projects that happened this summer...this blog is meant to archive my finished projects. So here is a project that has nothing to do with sewing, but does involve transforming a space with fabric!

I saw this Target shower curtain on another sewing blog (can't remember where, though) and knew it would be perfect for my daughter's bathroom. The print is fun, modern but not too "kiddy". I love how a fun print can change your mood. The little squirrels and owls make me smile!

Without painting, it turned the room from blah to wow!

Nightshirt Refashion

2010-05-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

After seeing this nightshirt worn on the bloganista flickr group, I purchased one at Target on clearance for less than $4 for my first refashion. This top was intended to be my second entry for Rae's Top Week. The deadline was Friday 4/30. The master procrasinator in me just assumed that the deadline was Friday at 11:59:59, so after getting my daughter to bed that night, I scurried around to finish the top and upload the pictures to flickr. I was even going to be clever and name the top "the buzzer beater" or something...but checked Rae's blog and saw that the deadline was actually 8 PM. Oh well, that news allowed me to slow down and finish the top on Saturday with a little more care.

Fortunately, the nightshirt fit me perfectly across the shoulders, so no adjustments there. I cut off eight or so inches off the bottom and got started. First I opened up the collar seams and removed the collar, leaving just the band which I restitched. I took in the side and sleeve seams quite a bit.

On the placket, I removed all buttons and sewed the bottom two-thirds shut. Then from the fabric piece cut from the bottom, I created ruffles cut on the bias and sewed them right onto the placket. I like the current ruffle-trend but in small doses, so this worked well for me.

I used a hem facing and finished with a double-row of topstitching. With facings, I have been understitching (using Karyn's tutorial) which makes a big difference in the finished product. After cutting the sleeves to three-quarter length, I considered adding a bias cut binding, but decided to go with a simple casing for elastic.

This is an easy top to throw on for a comfy weekend day.

Another go at Simplicity 2892

2010-04-25T15:52:00.000-07:00

Last year for made by rae's Spring Top Week, I made a Simplicity 2892. Why not kick off this year's Top Week with the same pattern? This black and white cotton lawn was scored on clearance last year from fabric.com for only $3.49 per yard. (I have the same print in green and white that is destined to become a tunic)

This view of the pattern has lots of fussy details including a ruffle, a gathered yoke and hand-joined yoke facing. You can read my post about the first 2892 for some details. The only variation I made to this version was four rows of shirring at the hem. I have wanted to try shirring and it was fairly easy. The details are a little hard to see on this busy fabric.

I loved the outcome of last year's 2892 but don't love the fabric. I wore it just once. This black and white version is the most wearable of any garment I have made. It sort of has a White House Black Market vibe.

A couple of other tops are in process (along with two skirts and a dress)....let's see if I make the deadline for Top Week!

Skirt Muslin

2010-03-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

Dressmaking, aka garment sewing, has my interest these days. I added some new books to my sewing library to focus on learning techniques and drafting patterns. A few new blogs have been added to my google reader and I registered for the classes that came with my new sewing machine.

Design it Yourself Clothes by Cal Patch is teaching me how to draft patterns. Cal walks step-by-step through pattern drafting with instructions to make skirt, pants, woven top, t-shirt and dress patterns. I started with the skirt and have been working on my pattern and muslin for the past few weeks. I've also been hanging out at KitschyKoo's sewalong over at her blog and on flickr.

The pattern drafting process is interesting. I love the idea of drafting custom patterns based on your personal measurements. As someone whose chest and waist measurements correspond to a "small" pattern size and hip measurement to "large", making custom fit clothing, especially skirts and pants, is an attractive concept. The drafting process takes patience and willingness to try and try again. At this point, I have adjusted my pattern eight or ten times.

After completing a first draft of my pattern, I realized that I forgot to include ease. Oops...I'm not going for skintight! So I erased my lines and redrew adding in an inch of ease to each measurement as the book suggests. After the pattern draft was revised, I cut out my fabric for the first trial run, aka my muslin. My muslin is not made of muslin at all, but of a lightweight embroidered black corduroy from my stash.

I then sewed up the side seams using a long basting stitch, leaving one side seam open about 8 inches at the top. Then I did a quick try-on and realized that my hand-drawn hip curve was unlike any natural hip shape in this world....with pointy bits sticking out from my hip area like some stylized couture piece...but not in a good way. (Note to self: purchase a hip curve soon.) I also found that the "sweep" (circumference of the bottom edge of the skirt) was too large, making this A-line skirt a seriously exaggerated A. So I went back to the pattern, redrew the hip curve and reduced the sweep. I ended up smoothing out the hip curve quite a bit, almost an inch inside the original hip point line I drew. My ending sweep measurement is only about six inches larger than the hip measurement. This made for a less exagerated A, but still flattering for my body shape.

Now is where I begin to sound like shampoo bottle instructions: wash, rinse, repeat...or in this case, redraw pattern, baste side seams, try on, rip out side seams, repeat. I went through this process five or six times, which is the exact reason to sew a muslin first (with basting stitches simple to rip out). The muslin allows you to achieve just the right fit and perfect the pattern through trial and error.

Once I had what I thought was a good fit, I wanted to take the skirt on a trial run. My goal was to ensure that the fit was nice and comfortable while sitting, walking, driving, etc. before I went to the trouble of finishing the waistband and attempting my first invisible zipper. So, I restitched the side seams (both all the way up) using a standard stitch length and handsewed the hem. In this condition, still with an unfinished waist, I slipped the skirt on over my head (yes, really!) and wore it work. My conclusion was that the fit was right, although the fabric stretched out a bit by the end of the day. I received a few compliments from co-workers, and thought to myself "if they only knew how unfinished this garment is."

The pictures in the post were taken after work (in diminishing natural light), so the skirt is a little stretched out but still well-fitting. Those black tights look so shiny with the flash and are doing nothing for me in these pictures :) I may go shorter on the length. This fabric could easily look dowdy at longer lengths. So now, I'll properly finish this skirt with lining, zipper and waistband...then try out the pattern in another fabric.

Spring Top Week again!

2010-03-08T16:20:00.000-08:00

Just this weekend, I wondered if Rae (over at Made by Rae) would host a Spring Top Week again this year. This morning when I checked my Google Reader, there it was - Rae's announcement. I'm so excited!

Her event motivated me to make my first garments last year. I entered three tops....and sadly haven't made one since. There's something about a deadline and competition that gets me motivated. I'm off to plan some tops and have decided to limit myself to my (overgrown) stash for this challenge. Happy Sewing!

Quick nightgown

2010-02-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

During a shopping trip this summer, my daughter picked out some cute fabric for a nightgown. This morning she pulled the fabric out of my stash. I like when she shows an interest in my sewing, so I decided to sew up a quick gown.

For a simple project, I chopped off one of last summer's t-shirts for the bodice and added a gathered skirt of the gown fabric. To keep the gown really cozy and to help it fit longer, I cut off the sleeve and neckline bindings using my rotary cutter with the pinking blade.

I ironed-on some flower transfers that I picked up at Michaels many months ago to add some interest and up the cute factor,

The gown is a hit and is still being worn as I type! I told my daughter that it will be a spring/summer gown, but I have a feeling this might make it into heavy dress-up rotation until then!

Apron in cotton lawn

2010-01-05T20:34:00.001-08:00

My daughter outgrew her apron so a new one on my to-do list. Initially, I chose a "kiddie" fabric, but she grabbed this floral from my stash instead ("because it has pink"). Her choice worked for me, because this fabric was purchased with the intent of making a vintage-styled apron. This cotton lawn (from JoAnn's red-tag area for $1/yd!) reminds me of something I might have found in my great-grandma's kitchen! I love the feel of the lawn.

I used McCalls 5551, View A. This pattern is nice as it contains patterns for several different style aprons in kid and adult sizes. I also used this to help size the recent soccer apron. I cut out a size 6-7 thinking my daughter can wear it for several years. I was right....the apron nearly fits me! I can actually fold the bib portion over and wear it comfortably as a hostess apron. The pattern calls for lace trim, but I used magenta ric rac to add even more vintage feel. Here you see the apron being put to use. You can also tell it is plenty big for my four year old. Conveniently, the fabric matches perfectly with her new slipper boots from Grandma :)

Puppet Theatre from Bend the Rules

2010-01-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

I made the Puppet Theatre from Bend the Rules Sewing as a Christmas gift for my daughter. I also gave her an animal puppet-making kit (picked up at Michaels a year or so ago). The colorful puppets paired well with the Puppet Theatre and led to a hilarious puppet show on Christmas day with my sister, mom, daughter and me as the puppetmasters. It was one of those priceless moments that only happen with a little one around! I deviated from the book instructions slightly, because I didn't use cuts of fabric. The main fabric with large circles is a nursery curtain panel and the white fabric with small dots is a coordinating crib sheet. Both are from Dwell Studio for Target. I lucked out and found these on a clearance endcap for $5 each because they were an internet return. I love the colors and happy dots! As a side note, if you are in the market for nursery linens, these are great quality - soft, smooth cottons. The curtains are fully lined, too.

The pattern and instructions for this project are straightforward. I suggest planning to make this over a few days. Sewing all of those long straight seams gets tedious :) To make the project go a bit faster, you could leave off the ball trim and even skip the valances. I don't know if using the curtain panel was a shortcut or not. It did save me from hemming the bottom, making a casing for the tension rod and hemming one side. On the other hand, it added a few steps adding pieces to create the window.

All of the white there in the middle section is feeling a little boring to me, so I may cut out some of the large dots and applique on the bottom valance.

Since my 63"x44 curtain panel was wider and shorter than the main fabric piece that the instructions call for, I had to make a few adjustments:

I cut about 1o inches off the side and hemmed to the book measurements (give or take). (the ten inches I cut off should work well to make the storage case.)
Then I cut the curtain into two separate pieces, across the width about 14 inches down from the top edge. I hemmed the top piece. I left the edges raw on the bottom piece.
From the crib sheet, I cutoff the elastic/casing off to create a flat piece of the white dot fabric. (I saved the elastic/casing...I'm sure I can use it later at some point.)
From the white dot fabric, I then cut two rectangles measuring 8"x16"and hemmed the long sides of each rectangle. I also cut my valances from this fabric.
I attached the bottom valance to the bottom piece of the main panel (and enclosed the raw edges) using double fold bias tape in blue.
Next, I sewed the short sides of each 8"x16" rectangle to the far ends of the two main panel pieces to create a "window".
From this point I just followed the book directions for finishing.

That lengthy explanation may make a straightforward process seem more complicated than it really is, but it might help someone!

Note that in these photos, the dowels are not inserted (they still need to be cut down to size), so the opening appears droopy. When the dowels are in place, the panel and window are nicely squared up.

Small projects

2010-01-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

My creativity has needed a boost lately. Even with the holidays approaching, I just didn't have it in me. (I did make a few holiday gifts which I need to post) Honestly, I think the whole craft fair thing, coupled with machine failures and lack of time, zapped my creativity. Craft fairs are not for me, I'm afraid. To get back in the swing of things, yesterday I decided to do some small projects that were short on time and full of instant gratification.

The first project was strap covers for my daughter's car seat. Her seat in my car has cozy covers around the straps that can be positioned around her face. Her seat in my husband's car does not have the cozies and she has been complaining about the scratchy straps. I decided to whip up some covers.

I simply traced the existing cover to make a pattern. I used grey fleece for the top side and fusible fleece on the underside. Then I added velcro strips on the underside to secure the covers around the straps. To finish the covers, I sewed on double-fold bias tape. My husband should appreciate that the trim is Tarheel Blue for his favorite college basketball team!

My second project of the day was a sewing machine cover. For about a year, I had an IKEA pillow cover sort of draped over my machine. I decided my new machine deserved a proper cover. For this I just cut the side seams off the pillow cover, cut the length to fit and then hemmed the raw edges to make a slip-on cover. To close the sides, I sewed on some twill tape ties. Easy, quick, done...cute.

With the remaining fabric from the pillow cover, I made a needlebook and wrist pincushion from One Yard Wonders. I truly need the needlebook. I usually just throw my needles in the bowl that holds my pins (pictured at the top of this post), so it is like looking for a needle in a haystack (er...pin bowl) when I need to handstich.

The pincushion is sewn using an offset square technique. You may not be able see in my pictures, but the end result is a cool zig-zag effect where the two fabrics are joined. I am thinking this same technique might make a nice floor pillow for my daughter's room using two contrasting fabrics to highlight the zig zag result. See, my creativity is slowly but surely returning :)

By the way, One Yard Wonders is full of fun projects. I keep flipping through the pages

or inspiration!! FYI, if you have the book, there are some corrections posted at Storey Publishing and a group set-up at flickr.

Secret Santa Shoulder Bag

2010-01-03T13:02:00.001-08:00

I was commissioned to make a bag for a secret santa exchange. Green is the recipient's favorite color, so I paired this green Robert Kaufman print with a chocolate corduroy. The bag is a simple shape and will be a good size for everyday use.

For the closure, I made a corduroy loop and used a large button.

Soccer Apron

2009-12-06T19:19:00.001-08:00

This apron is for my co-worker's niece. I loosely used McCalls 5551 for the sizing and made a Kids 10-12. The pattern includes three or four different apron styles with kids and adults sizes. The soccer prints are from Robert Kaufman. The main fabric is a black and white cotton gingham.

I have a knack for making the simplest projects complex...and time consuming. Because the gingham is so thin, I had to make the apron two thicknesses. I basically made two aprons, joined them right-sides-together and turned right side out. In the end the apron is reversible.

This is actually the second version of the apron skirt. Initially, I made a gathered skirt. It was so cute and worked well with the thin gingham...but I had to consider the gift recipient who was described to me as a "tomboy" who wouldn't want anything too girly. I decided the gathers (combined with all the pink) pushed the apron into girly-overload. They had to go. I made the neck strap adjustable by using two d-rings.

Brown Rose Tote, take two

2009-11-24T16:55:00.000-08:00

Stephanie asked me to make another of the brown rose tote that I took to the craft fair. Making the bag a second time allowed me to tweak a few things. Megan, the recipient of the first brown rose tote, gave me some feedback that the straps would be a bit short, especially when wearing a heavier coat. So, for this second version the straps are about an inch and a half longer. I added some additional pockets inside and a key fob.The tote design is fairly simple. I tend to like simple shapes and lines with a combination of solids and prints on the exterior. The outer print is Frippery Birds and Roses in brown. The solid is a home dec cotton and the lining is a quilting cotton from the wall at JoAnn.I'm still trying new interfacings. Here, I used a woven fusible interfacing to add some body to the Frippery print. I then interfaced the lining bag with fusible fleece. It is still a trial and error process. I picked up some cotton batting to try in a future bag. We'll see how that goes.

After all these recent bags, I am anxious to sew something different. Next up is the soccer apron. I also picked up a new book Chic and Simple Sewing by Christine Haynes. I am anxious to sew some more clothing and work on my garment construction skills!

Stitch Spring Tote in Ginseng

2009-11-24T11:50:00.002-08:00

Here is my second version of the Spring Tote from the Spring 2009 Stitch Magazine. This pattern is by Rashida Coleman-Hale of i heart linen. The exterior prints are Joel Dewberry's Ginseng collection and the lining is his Blackeyed Susan. I love the rich colors and cotton sateen finish of the Ginseng home dec fabrics. The solid outer fabric is a woven home dec fabric that may be a cotton/poly blend.

The first time I made this bag in August, I worked up a sweat, pounding away at the eight grommets in a closed garage in 80+ degree heat. This time it was a cool 50 or 60 degree garage in November...much better! I love this mild weather we are having in Ohio. Look at that green grass, just a few days before Thanksgiving!

Tutti-Fruiti

2009-11-24T11:11:00.000-08:00

The Chocolate Buttercup Bag in the previous post was for Megan, a jewelry artist in my area and fellow vendor at the recent craft fair I attended. At the craft fair, she and I traded a bag for a necklace, then I asked for a custom pair of earrings, then she asked for the Buttercup Bag and then I asked for a pair of earrings....and the cycle goes on.
No actual money has changed hands, rather some handmade lovlies. A win-win for both of us, right??

Megan is incredibly talented and even teaches classes locally. She has some gorgeous pieces on her website and also makes custom pieces.

Here is my Tutti-Fruiti necklace and earring set made by Megan:I love the variety of colors, shapes and sizes of beads in this piece. This necklace is actually three separate beaded, twisted strands that are then braided together. I've worn this with orange, green, charcoal and ice blue sweaters and it looks great.

The fun doesn't end there. Megan kindly shared my blog with some friends, one of whom asked me to make a bag or two. Stephanie's bags are coming up in a future post.

Chocolate Buttercup

2009-11-21T14:27:00.000-08:00

I was commissioned to make another Buttercup Bag. This is the larger size that comes with the commercial license available on Rae's blog. Since I was charging for this one (well sort of...I'll get to that in another post!), I purchased the license. This makes a nice size bag, good for everyday use. I wish I took a picture of myself holding the bag to show the scale.

Megan purchased her outer fabric, a silky chocolate brown. She chose the lining fabric, lime and brown Robert Kaufman jacquard, from my stash. I love the punch of color the lime adds. I finished this one with a magnetic closure and two inner pockets. When constructing the bag, I used fusible interfacing with the lining and handle, but no interfacing with the outer fabric. This method seemed to worked fine.

The outer color reads so differently in this last picture because of the flash, but I like how the sheen and sharp pleats are highlighted. The Buttercup was a good first project with the new machine. So far, so good!

Christmas came early...

2009-11-10T10:09:00.001-08:00

One of these pretties is now sitting in my sewing room with a bobbin wound and ready to go. If you've been reading my recent posts, you may recall I have had some challenges with bobbins and tension and borrowed machines, always at the worst times when I was trying to finish a gift or build an inventory for the craft show.

My hubby suggested earlier in the year that I should just buy a new machine...likely after he heard me "talking" to the malfunctioning machine and telling it where I would like to throw it. I thought I would hold-off at that point to make sure I was really going to keep up with the sewing. At this point, I'm committed to sewing (and amassing a fabric stash....) and really need a functioning machine.

This one should fit my needs. It has some great features - automatic buttonholer, needle up/down button, locking stitch, 50 stitches (more than I really need), speed control, computerized stitch length for consistency, etc. It does a blind hem stitch and smocking and has some decorative stitches that should be nice for garment sewing.

I purchased from Sew-Ezy a local quilt shop which is, as far as I can tell, the only Janome dealer in Cincinnati. The women at the shop were so helpful and took time to show me features and benefits and let me sew a little. A machine purchase from the shop includes classes that I am excited about. [Just another reason to buy local as often as you can....]

After I've sewn with this for a month or so, I'll be sure to write a review here. The blog posts and online reviews I found during my research were so helpful. I don't make a major purchase anymore without a little help from google!

My first craft fair

2009-10-24T16:08:00.000-07:00

I participated in a small craft fair today, which I'll call a marketing test. It was a small show at my local YMCA, with a booth fee of just $25. Foot traffic was minimal as there was not a great deal of advertising. The best part of attending, I found, was meeting other crafters and talking about our creativity. There were many other first-timers there, so the camaraderie was nice.

I traded this brown rose bag with a fellow crafter for a beautiful beaded silver necklace and earrings. You can see an example of my hangtag on the bag. I opted to use simple handwritten cardstock tags. At Target, I picked up a two-pack of punches that included both the circle and butterfly punches. It turned out to be an easy and inexpensive way to make tags.

My product inventory was not quite as planned because my machine kept failing in the weeks before the show, with major tension issues and loopy stitches on the underside of the fabric. After trying everything - new needle, rethreading, adjusting tension, rethreading bobbin, etc.-I gave up (last night at 2 AM...arghhhh) It may be time to browse for a new machine :)

I was really discouraged to have such a small product offering (and a lot of unfinished items at home), but felt better after I saw the foot traffic at the fair. It is all a learning experience. I took a few of my larger totes and shoulder bags, kid-sized pocket totes, zipper pouches and two pennant banners. The larger totes got attention and compliments, but most people were not looking to spend much. Next time, I might make a less labor-intensive tote still using the bright, designer fabrics, that I can offer at a reasonable price. I took notes of items that people requested.

Here is my little display. This fair was small, so no one had large constructed booths, just tables. I spent a minimal amount, purchasing only the tablecloth and rack for the small totes. The other items are from my home. The larger totes are resting against two basket cubes from IKEA that I use in my sewing room bookcase. I turned them on the side, so the front side could prop the bags and the backside could hold my supplies (bags, blackberry, pens) out of sight. You'll never guess what I used to hang the kid totes....a free-standing toilet paper rack (Target again...and used specifically for this purchase...never placed in my bathroom!!). It worked great!

My super-crafty cousin purchased this tote along with a small zipper pouch for my first sale. Unfortunately in the stress of trying to finish product and fiddling with the machine, I didn't take any proper pictures once my new bags were finished. This is the first more complex bag that I have designed start to finish. The side panels and bottom exterior pockets with binding trim wrap around the sides of the bag. Inside I added a panel of pockets on each side and a key fob. I will definitely make more of these.

All in all, attending the fair was a good (learning) experience. Truthfully, I am relieved it is over and am ready to catch up on my sleep!! Talking with the other crafters has me energized to keep sewing and being creative.

Another Kidlet

2009-10-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

I made another Kidlet today using Jennifer's tutorial. This one is for my sister who is expecting a little boy in November. For her baby shower today, I filled the Kidlet with a couple of board books, breast pads and lanolin cream, hand cream and lip balm. I hope she finds this useful for stashing all the little things that a nursing mom might need close at hand. The nursery colors are brown and blue, so I paired a dark brown cordury with brown and white gingham lining. I have been using more and more gingham for bag linings while using more modern prints on the exterior. For the pocket, I used various blue prints from my scraps, but stayed away from anything too kiddy, so the Kidlet will work well in rooms other than the nursery.

Two things I hate in bags are floppiness and wimpy straps. The first Kidlet I made was a little too floppy, so this time I used a heavier interfacing. This is the first time I have tried Decor Bond. It made for a nice, sturdy bag and pressed well, with no dimples, once the bag was turned right side out.

A request!

2009-10-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

via

My co-worker asked me to make an apron as a Christmas gift for her niece. This is my first sewing order, so I was honored that she asked!

Apparently her niece is an awesome cook and a great athlete. My kind of girl!! She plays both soccer and hockey, so my co-worker hoped to incorporate both sports. Soccer fabrics were fairly easy to find. Hockey fabrics that might appeal to a nine-year old girl...not so easy! I looked locally and online for fabrics and we settled on the two Robert Kaufman prints above from Hancock's of Paducah. Cute, aren't they? But not too cute, as the request specified nothing too girly-girl!

My plan is to dig into this apron project after Halloween. Until then, I am working on craft fair items to sell, a halloween costume for my daughter and a baby shower gift for my sister. My list is long (and growing), but my time is short! If it weren't for this full-time job :)

Bags, Bags, Bags!

2009-09-30T13:31:00.001-07:00

I am on a bag kick, designing my own. The bag above is the first finished product I have to show; a few others are pictured in-process below. This one is made from an olive linen blend with the pop of Orange Leaf Dot (from Park Slope by Erin McMorris). It is a good sized shoulder bag - not too big, not too small. I am enjoying designing the bags from start to finish experimenting with different fabrics and shapes.

Anyone else have a love/hate relationship with interfacings?? For the bag above, I used fusible fleece, but think that the linen was just too thin for it. After turning the bag out several times due to ripped-out seams and redos, the fabric has that weird dimply look. Fusible fleece did work perfectly for the straps. I hate wimpy straps and need them to have some body. I purchased some decor weight fusible interfacing and am trying flannel layers and sew-in rigid interfacing...we'll see what works best.

Here are some others in progress. I picked up this dark denim and like the way it contrasts with the prints (yes, more orange...i heart orange). I love prints, but I'm not really an all-over print-bag kind of girl. I like to break it up with solids and keep simple lines.

Wacky Hit Counter

2009-09-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

So I was away on a quick vacation and came back to check on my blog (which sorely needs some finished projects to post.) My hit counter went wacky while I was away.

On 8/31, my hits were somewhere in the 4300s and are now 3518. Apparently some of you have regretted your visits to Lorna Doone and decided to "take them back". he he.

Do any of you use a counter on your blog that actually works? Suggestions?

(On a side note, my vacation was fun and grueling at the same time. I biked 80 or so miles from Quincy, MA to Cape Cod with my sister and sister-in-law. They rode another 47 miles more than me, even, while I accepted a friend's gracious car ride offer to Provincetown. I noticed some lovely little shops that surely had some great fabric and handmade goodies....but sadly I had to keep pedaling!!)

Bundled

2009-08-27T17:32:00.000-07:00

I bundled my love (and some sewing supplies) and will ship it all off to Iraq tomorrow. The limits of the flat rate box were stretched, but with some effort, I was able to tape the box closed! The bundle contains 5-6 different fabrics, some ribbon and thread. I also threw in a few travel sewing kits picked up at hotels over the years. Those kits were nice to include since they include pins, needles, safety pins and thread. I wrapped the bundle in a vintage table cloth. Let's hope a woman in Iraq soon finds these supplies useful.

Art's post over at the IBOL blog today said the site has had 31,000 hits! WOW! The power of the blogosphere is working for the greater good. I love it!

Iraqi Bundles of Love

2009-08-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about Iraqi Bundles of Love, an effort started by a US soldier stationed in Iraq? He saw a need for sewing supplies amongst Iraqi families and started collecting bundles of sewing and knitting supplies to distribute. So far, the bundle count is 80. That number will soon grow exponentially since the effort was featured on the Sew Mama Sew blog today. He already estimates being able to distribute to three provinces and anticipates the need for air support for massive distribution!

Self-contained bundles of fabric, yarn and notions are requested to be mailed by September 7 per instructions on the blog. Sew Mama Sew is offering to build and send bundles for a $15 donation.

Be sure to visit the IBOL blog to read how this soldier was inspired during his multiple visits to Iraq. He updates with pictures of the many bundles piling up and throws in some humor supplied by the unit's resident kitty. And his "about me", while simple and succient, touched me -- "I am the son of a quilter, who also made Halloween costumes for us kids. I am the brother of quilters, who give generously in everything they do. I am the husband of a quilter, who inspires me every day. And, apparently, I am helping to raise a quilter, who happens to be the cutest girl in the world."

I have read about several other service efforts in the sewing blogosphere and "meant" to participate. This one is a must for me.

A Skirt for my Sweetie

2009-08-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

It's a skirt weekend around here. So far, I had not made much clothing for my daughter as she already has an abundance of cute summer dresses. It is so easy to find cute clothes for a little girl, but not so much for a thirtysomething mom. So, I have focused mainly on sewing clothing for myself. But I received this fabric from Park Slope by Erin McMorris in one of the scrap packs I ordered and knew it was destined to be a sweet little girl skirt.

Fortunately the scrap pack pieces are full width 44" cuts, a great width for a gathered skirt. I just squared up the fabric and sewed the selvedge edges together as a back seam. Then I made a casing for 1/2" elastic and sewed a 1/4" rolled hem. Done. Easy.

I like that underneath it all, this is still an intact 44" wide piece of fabric, in case this fabric wants to become something else in the future. Of course, the skirt should last a few seasons with the flexibility of the elastic waist band and the generous length (this piece was a 13" cut.) I also left a few extra inches of elastic at the end of the waistband in case we need to let it out later.

The best $1 purchase ever

2009-08-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

No, I didn't sew this skirt, but I did thrift it for $0.99. The fabric and pink grosgrain hem are a little too cutesy for me, but the fit is absolutely perfect. I purchased it solely to draft a pattern. Since spring, I have had intentions to make a skirt for myself...I have a few patterns, the Sew What Skirts book, the skirt pattern in Sew U, etc....but didn't realize I just needed to take a dollar to the thrift store. I've been meaning to try some fold-over elastic (FOE) since reading Angry Chicken's 5-Minute Skirt tutorial, so I ordered some on etsy and got busy.

To draft the pattern, I simply laid out the skirt on the fabric and cut around it! From there, I refined the shape, stitched the side seams, tried it on and refined some more. Then I traced the skirt-in-progress on paper to make my pattern piece for future skirts (...and there will be plenty more, especially since I can make the skirt with only a yard of fabric!) For pattern paper, I just tore off a piece of drawing paper from my daughter's art easel which is conveniently located adjacent to my sewing space. I also saved the paper all my IKEA bookcase pieces were wrapped in and use that for pattern-drafting, too

I used a piece of medium-weight cotton from my stash, a black and white print with little bits of green. The skirt was cut out on the bias to allow for some stretch. For the waistband, I used black FOE. I tried to watch Angry Chicken's FOE tutorial on YouTube for some pointers, but my laptop claims I don't have flash player and will not let me download the newest version, so I just winged it with the FOE. It was easier than I thought, as long as I kept the elastic pulled tight as I stitched. For the hem, I pressed and pinned a 1" hem and fortunately decided to try on the skirt one last time before stitching. It was a wee bit too short, so I unpinned the hem and opted for a 1/4" rolled hem instead.

The finished product fits perfectly! The FOE waistband is so comfortable, not binding at all and flexible to wear a little higher or lower on the waist depending on your mood. This kind of skirt is versatile to throw on casually with a tank top and flip flops or to accessorize for my business casual office with a cardigan and sandals. I love having a go-to A-line pattern (and a small supply of FOE.) There's no stopping me now :)

Spring Tote from Stitch

2009-08-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

I pounded away at the grommets and finished this bag today. It is the Spring Tote from Stitch Magazine (Spring 2009 issue). The two blue fabrics are from Good Folks by Anna Maria Horner. The orange dot is a quilting cotton and the main fabric is 100% linen. The tote is a nice size and is sturdy from a layer of fusible fleece.

The pattern and instructions were easy to follow. I slightly reshaped the pattern pieces to make the bottom of the bag more rounded and added an extra interior pocket. The handles are a little short, but I will not rework them. Handles are my least favorite part of making bags!

The grommets did take alot of pounding! The kit that I purchased at the fabric store included everything needed (minus the hammer) for installation.

For Stitch fans, I noticed today that the website includes a preview of the Fall 2009 issue (available in early October) including a cover shot, table of contents and a pre-order option.

Works in Progress

2009-08-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

This will be the Yard Sale Wrap Skirt from Weekend Sewing. I started this months ago when I first bought the book, but I just haven't felt like taking the last few steps to finish it. The waistband/ties are completed, but need to be ripped open and lengthened.

Once I attach the grommets, this Spring Tote (from the current issue of Stitch) will be finished. I guess I'll call it the Late Summer-Early Autumn Tote!

A Kidlet for the Kid Stuff

2009-08-07T13:46:00.001-07:00

Today, I made this Kidlet, from Jennifer's tutorial. It's a handy little bag to hang on a doorhandle or wall hook to collect the little kiddy stuff that ends up all over the room. For the main fabric, I used a heavyweight cotton with a subtle stripe effect (yep, it's an IKEA curtain panel). The lining and patchwork fabrics were in my stash. This was my first go at patchwork.

This one will hang in the hallway adjacent to our family room. I will probably make another for

upstairs. These would be handy to have during the baby days for bibs, burb cloths, pacifiers, nursing pads/cream, etc. Note to my two expecting sisters...pretend you did not read this and act surprised, okay :)

Instant Gratification

2009-08-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

I whipped up a drawstring bag based on the instructions in Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. This was made to hold a birthday gift. I will probably make some more of these for my husband to use as shoe bags when traveling. He keeps hinting that I don't sew anything for him! The fabric is a tablecloth from IKEA. This one was $5 in the As-Is section. Lots of nice, heavy cheap fabric to use. And I like that the colors are different...unexpected.

An fyi for those using the book instructions. The photo in the book shows only one drawstring, but the instructions call for two (as shown above). I like using two drawstrings, it makes the bag easy to cinch. I used twill tape for the drawstrings. So the inside edges would be finished neatly, I used french seams.

Here is a close up of the (somewhat sloppy) zigzag technique used for the drawstring casings.

The halter that was a dress that was a tank

2009-08-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

This top started out as a dress in my mind. Then I realized that an empire waistline starting that high would not be flattering for my body shape. So I decided to make a simple tank rather than a dress. Then I sewed one of the straps on at a weird angle that worked better as a halter strap. So I settled on a halter. I like this kind of creating...figuring it out as you go and not being afraid to move away from your original plan.

I drafted the pattern using an Ann Taylor Loft top that I have with a simple design to duplicate. The fabric is a cotton voile that I picked up locally for $2.99 a yard! I love the colors. Because of the lightweight and almost sheer quality of the fabric, I added a muslin lining to the bottom half of the shirt. The top portion of the top is interfaced along with the straps to add some body.

I still need to make some fit adjustments. The top portion is a little big and the elastic just loose enough to not feel confident that it won't slip too low in the back.

As a bonus, once I finished the top, I realized I have two cardigans that will make this wearable for work and that match perfectly, one the medium green and one the light blue in the print. And I love how it works with this pretty necklace I ordered from Snapdragon on etsy. I'm not a paid sponsor :)...just a happy customer. I love green and this adds a great boost of color to so many outfits.

The color is so blah on these pictures. Trying to capture the last bit of natural light on a dreary day gave me dreary pictures!

Hello, Summer!

2009-07-18T17:59:00.001-07:00

Doesn't this fabric scream summer? Our family room was in need of a summer infusion. This winter, the room was painted - transforming it from cold builder-beige to warm tan. The new color warms the room so much, but it was feeling a little like fall with all the tan and brown furniture. I have orange and green accents in the room, so this fabric worked perfectly. I received the main fabric (Amy Butler Gothic Rose) in a scrap pack ordered from etsy. The cut was only a 14 inch cut, so to fit my 20 inch pillow form, I added the border (Amy Butler Olive Seeds). By the way, if you need pillow inserts, I found that IKEA is a good source. These 20 inch feather-filled inserts were only $6.99 each.

I like how the floral pattern mimics the brown vine pattern on the adjacent slipper chairs.

Rather than add a zipper, I opted for a simple envelope design and used a coordinating stripe (Amy Butler Oxford Stripe).

I would like to try the patchwork pillow on the cover of the latest Stitch magazine. I've never done patchwork or quilting, so this might be a good introduction.

Maggie's new duds

2009-07-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

Meet Maggie. She was my daughter's first babydoll, a gift from my mom soon after my daughter's birth. After nearly four years with us, Maggie's original clothes are looking a little worn. I planned to make her a new outfit last Christmas, but didn't get to it. So, this week, I whipped up a summer dress and bloomers from some scraps in my stash. It was a quick and easy project....just a simple halter top connected to a gathered skirt. It is sort of a pain to sew such teeny-tiny seams. I got lazy toward the end and just zig-zagged along the hem of the dress and bloomers. I'll see how that holds up after washing and add a proper hem if necessary.

My daughter wanted to make Maggie a leotard. This was totally unprompted by me, so it was fun to see her interest. I gave her a few scraps and she started cutting and glueing! You can see got the shape pretty accurate, complete with shoulder straps and a skirt. The "finished' leotard wasn't exactly functional but it was fun to watch my daughter's creative process!

Sewers block?

2009-07-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

For awhile, I just couldn't sew. Maybe my head is too full of ideas and desired projects or maybe I am discouraged by some of the machine issues I have encountered....not sure. Or maybe the sunny warm weather is calling me outside rather than into my sewing room.

Nevertheless, I have a few things in the works. First, I am almost finished on a summer dress for myself....made without a pattern! I just used a shirt that I like and drafted a pattern for the bodice. I am happy how it is coming together. The bodice is complete and I just need to add the skirt. The fabric is lightweight so I am adding a muslin lining to the skirt. I was ready to complete the skirt, but realized I had not washed/dried the muslin. I would be so sad if I completed the dress only to have the lining shrink up and ruin the look and fit.

I am also ready to make some new pillow covers for our family room sofa and our sewing/creative room loveseat with the fabrics above. Both rooms need a little summer update. Maybe I'll make some coordinating coasters, too. *Surprisingly* I had fabric onhand for both sets and did not have to make a purchase.

Baby has a new pair of shoes...and bibs

2009-06-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

Until recently in my family, all of the babies born to my generation had been girls. Fortunately, a little boy is on his way to my sister and her husband in a couple of months. And my cousin just had a sweet little boy. ...so I made some fun gifts and broke away from all the girly prints.

How cute is the little tie bib? I saw the tutorial on blueprints (formerly known as Just Tutes) and had to try! This was my first applique and it was a breeze! I used Wonder Under to apply the applique and finished with a zig-zag stitch. The soft baby shoes are from the Stardust Shoes pattern. I highly recommend both sites which are full of great tutorials and ideas in addition to the projects I show. For both tutorials I followed the directions without any adjustments, maybe a first for me!

I'm still fighting with sewing machines. Mom's Singer and I were getting along great until the very end of the second bib. I was topstitching and the bobbin thread got all crazy on me. Is this user error or just a Singer quirk?? Hopefully my sister won't mind a little wonky stitching ;)

Technical difficulties...and a thank you!

2009-06-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

I have lots of works in progress and many ideas in my head.....and a sewing machine that no longer functions! Last week, I was on a roll, nearly finished with a top and the bobbin jammed. This happens often on my machine, usually at the worst times. I cleared the jam as usual, but something else is wrong. Something is wrong with the bobbin shuttle...

Fortunately, after hearing my tale, my mom saved the day and brought me her sewing machine to borrow....without me even asking. How awesome is that? Thanks, Mom.

Off to finish some projects.....

That wasn't so hard

2009-05-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

If you read my previous post, you know that I started a top for my daughter months ago and hadn't finished it for fear of buttonholes. Well, last night, I decided it was time to buckle-down and figure them out. I did it! They really weren't that hard...I just didn't feel like it at the time months ago, I guess. I will need some more practice to get the density of stitches just right.

Fortunately after all that stalling, the top still fits! My model was reluctant to pose and wouldn't go outside to catch the last bit of natural light, but you get the idea.

The pattern from that*darn*kat is easy to follow and can be made into a top or dress. The dot fabric is one of the first fabrics I purchased when I started sewing and is super lightweight for summer. I like it paired with the gingham. I will make more from this pattern. Her summer wardrobe is overflowing already, so I may try one in a heavier weight to layer with a t-shirt and leggings for fall. I found a cute plum corduroy that will make a cute jumper.

Dabbling

2009-05-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

See all of those pretties above? I ordered a scrap pack from Fabric Supplies on etsy. The pack contains about two yards total fabric, all full-width cuts. The ones I received are mostly 12-16 inch cuts. The shop offers a choice of three color palettes - fresh, cool, warm. Mine is warm. Shipping was super fast. The best part was opening the package to find a surprise mix of pretty prints.

I view these beautiful fabrics online but find it hard to commit to just one or two and in a larger quantity. The choices are overwhelming, because I want them all! A scrap pack is a nice way to dabble and see how the weight and finish of different fabric lines compare. Although I haven't cut into these yet, I imagine they will be great for making smaller projects such as zip pouches, clutches, patchwork projects, garment trims, etc.

I thought I'd share this for other new sewers who want to add some fun to their stashes.

Crayon Roll

2009-05-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

Crayon rolls are a nice instant gratification project to finish in one relatively short sitting. It is also a great project to use scraps from your fabric stash. I made a few for birthday party gifts recently using this tutorial from Chocolate on my Cranium (great blog name, huh?). I had not made one for my daughter who asked me last week for her very own "crayon box", so I sewed one last night. This one I managed to turn into a not-so-short project by accidentally cutting through a piece of the fabric. After that I had to regroup a bit and the end product turned a little weird and wavy because the interfacing ended up on the wrong panel and another piece was thick with too many layers. That's okay...my daughter doesn't seem to mind. I chose these fabrics to coordinate with the Simple Tote I made her for Christmas.

Dressed-up Buttercup

2009-05-25T15:57:00.000-07:00

My latest project is a Buttercup Bag from made by rae's free pattern. (how awesome of rae to provide such a great pattern??) I decided to dress-up the handbag by using a piece of dupioni silk I had on-hand. I initially bought the silk to make a clutch to carry to a wedding. (I didn't get around to making a clutch, and instead finished the edges of the piece with a narrow rolled-hem to make a scarf to cover my shoulders during the chilly outdoor wedding.) The lining is a mustard, gray and white paisley quilting cotton found at the local Hancock. I saw the fabric, loved it and bought 3 yards (at $1.99 per yard, why not?) not knowing what I would make with it. I was pleasantly surprised to see how well it coordinated with the gold silk. The silk made for nice sharp pleats and was not too difficult to work with, although it frays quickly.

The handbag was a gift for my mother-in-law who generally carries much larger bags. I hope that the small size and silk fabric will make it a nice option as a special occasion bag for a dinner or church outing. Since I wanted it to be almost clutch-like, I kept the handle very short, so it can be held daintily (not sure that's a word, but you get my vision, right?) during a night out!

Gifts

2009-05-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day, I made this tote for my Mom. The pattern is "Amanda's Bag" from Marlous Designs. Marlous happens to be a special family member of ours, so I think that made the gift even better for Mom. The main fabric is a home dec weight I thought she would like. The lining and contrast are quilting fabrics. All were found at my local Hancock Fabric. The pattern calls for the bag to be quilting with a layer of batting. Since I am not a quilter, I just added a layer of fusible fleece. Now that it is finished, I don't know if that was a good move, as the bag is a little floppy. I may have to revamp the bag and add some rigid interfacing (...or just learn to quilt). The pattern is great and gave me a nice challenge adding a zippered pocket. The zipper pocket is hidden behind the front pocket panel. It should have been visible on the outside of the front panel, BUT I had a mishap with a very hot iron and reversed the outer pocket panels to hide a lovely scorch mark. I like the contrast that the green floral fabric adds. Behind all of those diagonal trim pieces lies a pocket, so in total there are five outer pockets and also a row of inner pockets in the lining bag. The bag is quite roomy. All in all, a success.

My sister-in-law's birthday is approaching and she visited us over the weekend from Toronto. Since she is working on her vegetable garden again this year, I thought a gardening apron might be needed. I just made up this design as I went, knowing that I wanted the apron to have lots of pockets, with some expandable ones for garden gloves, clippings, etc. The floral pocket panel is made from a thrifted kitchen towel sewn in half lengthwise. I then made some inverted pleats to make the two center pockets gusseted. The main fabric is a home dec weight gingham. I used pre-packaged bias tape to finish the top seams and make the ties. Although the colors of the gingham aren't exactly dirt friendly, I like the cheery combination!

Are buttonholes really that difficult? aka ... the Tale of the Unfinished Top

2009-05-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

So, I started a top for my daughter many months ago from the that*darn*kat pattern. It is super cute and...unfinished. I just keep avoiding figuring out buttonholes. (sort of like avoiding finishing our taxes after filing for an extension...I am a procrastinator specializing in avoidance) On my machine, you just use a zig zag stitch and then cut the opening. I tried it once, briefly and unsuccessfuly, and haven't gone back to it. My daughter tried on the top and everything and it fits (for now).

Ugghhh. I must stop dragging my feet. It feels good to get that off my chest :)

It's Voting time over at Rae's Spring Top Week

2009-05-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun making and submitting tops for Rae's Spring Top Week. I am a super-procrastinator, so having a deadline is always a good (necessary) thing. The best part was viewing everyone else's creativity and getting some great ideas for patterns and fabrics to try. I am now convinced that I "need" to try Simplicity 3835! I am amazed by the many tops created without patterns and those those used intricate details and techniques. It was also great to visit others' blogs and exchange comments/feedback. How motivating to keep sewing and build my skills!

There were 100 tops submitted by sewers (sewists?) from around the globe. How fun is that? So now, it is voting time! Anyone can vote in the first round by midnight Tuesday and then for the second round Thursday and Friday.

And now for some shameless self-promotion....my tops are 3H, 5I and 10F....in case they are worthy of your votes :)

Everything Tote in Orla Kiely

2009-05-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

My second finished project from Heather Ross' Weekend Sewing is the Everything Tote. I wanted to make a tote perfect for summer trips to the park and farmer's market, so the pear print seemed perfect. Some may recognize the pear fabric - it is the Orla Kiely dishtowel everyone scooped up at Target a month ago. I used the solid green towel for the handles, bindings and pockets. The lining is an unfinished cotton I had on-hand. To give the bag more body, I added a cotton flannel layer inside. I decided not to add gathers to the bag; it was just too difficult with the extra flannel layer and I just wanted to move ahead with the project!

Because the towels were a bit small to fit the pattern, I redrew the main pattern piece to reduce slightly. Even with the pattern reduction, the bag is still huge! I should mention that I ripped out all the seams on the pear print towel (yes, it took forever) to add about 3-4 inches of width and length. Also, since the pear pattern is directional, I had to cut the main body panels as two separate pieces.

As many have commented in the flickr group discussion, the instructions for the binding and handles are a bit curious. I will say that to achieve the look shown in the book photo, with inch wide bindings, you cannot follow the book instructions. The instructions call for the bindings and handles to be attached similar to bias tape. If you do that, your finished binding will only appear about half an inch wide. For my binding and handles, I just pressed the pieces in half and sewed on. It was tricky sewing, but I like the outcome, where you can see a little of the lining along the edge of the binding. As you can hopefully see in the picture, I sewed the handles in half only just past the body of the bag and left the rest open, so the lining fabric will show and so the wide handles will be comfortable on my shoulder.

For the interior, I added two large pockets, one divided. I also added a loop of fabric with some elastic sewn down the middle. It is hard to see in the picture, but the fabric loop is just sewn perpendicular into the side seam of the lining bag. What is the purpose, you ask? I want to carry a refillable water bottle or coffee tumbler upright in the bag. Let's hope it works.

My daughter thinks it makes a great messenger bag!

Spring Ruffle Top

2009-04-29T23:16:00.001-07:00

This top is made from the Spring Ruffle Top tutorial from made by rae. The fabric is Midnight Kisses by Heidi Grace Designs at JoAnn Fabric. I made no adjustments to the pattern. I chose to shape the sides (as rae includes as an optional step) by bringing in the side seams by about an inch on both sides. The shaping made the shirt more flattering and less maternity-like. I hemmed the shirt as is, leaving it almost tunic length. I added the optional divots to the armhole which helps with the overall fit and comfort.

The pattern was easy to follow. I did have to adjust the strap placement several times before sewing. I advise spending some time making sure the strap placement is just right (maybe even baste stitch) prior to sewing the straps to the chest band. I marked the placement in the beginning as the pattern instructs, but found that after I sewed the ruffle to the straps that I needed to adjust the placement all over again.

The shirt is cuter in person than in the photo! Again, it is nothing I would ever try on or purchase off-the-rack. I bought the necklace last year and had nothing with which to wear it. Don't you like how things come together sometimes?

Next time, I might adjust the size of the back panel piece so it doesn't require pleating. The pleating adds weird puffiness at the back...which I don't necessarily need back there! This shirt would be great for maternity wear. Another sewer on the flickr group made the pattern as a little girl's dress. I may just have to try that!

Summer Blouse

2009-04-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

Here is my finished Summer Blouse from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. I have a few works in process from the book, so it feels good to finally finish one! After reading everyone's blog posts and viewing finished blouses on the flickr group, I knew that I would need to make some adjustments to the pattern and didn't want to use the "good" fabric on the first try. I used what I had on-hand with enough yardage, which happened to be a heavyweight cotton curtain panel from the IKEA as-is section. (I guess this is where it might be helpful to have a thrifted sheet or two or some muslin onhand.) The facings were made from a paisley home-dec remnant. Unconventional fabric choices, right? Somehow, though, they worked out!

I made a few alterations to the pattern. The neckline was lowered about 1.5" and hits just at the collarbone. I brought in the sides quite a bit and added an inch or two to the length, but unfortunately, I cannot remember how much. The book calls for a button and loop closure, but with my lowered collar that feature would not make sense.

I liked applying the facing along the neckline so much, that I went crazy and used facings to finish the cuffs and hemline. It is a nice method for hemming, especially with a heavier fabric like this. I was not looking forward to turning up the hem a couple of times and then trying to stitch through all the layers! Disclaimer: the flipped-up hem in the picture is soley for demonstration purposes! I don't plan to walk around with it flipped. I think I could pull off the flipped cuffs, though!

Today I ordered some great cotton lawn to make another version of this blouse, probably with 3/4 length sleeves and a v-neckline. It will be interesting to see a more relaxed shape using the lawn, since this finished version is so structured with the heavyweight cotton.

A summer top - Simplicity 2892

2009-04-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

My first garment is finished! This is made from Simplicity 2892, the first commercial pattern I have used since junior high school. The fabric is off the quiliting wall at JoAnn's. I like the outcome and will definitely wear the top this summer.

Just a couple adjustments were made to the pattern. I shortened the body of the top by about an inch. (I'm 5' 3"). Determining the size was a little tough, as commercial pattern sizes are nothing like off-the-rack sizes. After measuring the pattern envelope told me I should wear a 12 or 14. After cutting the 12, I reconsidered and sized down to a 10. For comparison, I normally wear a small or medium (6 or 8) off the rack. After sewing the side seams, I decided the shirt was too wide and narrowed it a bit. To do this, I found a shirt in my closet that fits well, laid it on top and traced the shape. Initially, I planned to hem the shirt (view D), but decided to add elastic instead (view F). It seems to work better with the style and print and feels more finished this way.

The neck is quite detailed with a gathered yoke and ruffle (front and back). It took some time to gather the entire yoke and then the ruffle. Also, the yoke must be handstiched to the inside of the top. I suppose you could just topstitch the yoke to close the seam, but that would change the look with the topstitching visible on the outside. Although time consuming, I have found that I like this type of detail work that requires some handstitching and fussing.

It's funny - I would never try on this style or print at a clothing store, but I like it! I see myself making more from this pattern. This will be my first entry for made by rae's Spring Top Week.

Charming Handbag Received

2009-04-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

I received my Charming Handbag from my BTRS Swap partner...and it's perfect! My partner also made a coordinating zip pouch. You can view it here also.

I was touched that my partner considered my "likes and favorites" information she received at the beginning of the swap. In her blog she mentioned cutting the bag in a different fabric, then scrapping that idea and buying a different fabric at IKEA (which I mentioned as a favorite). The lining is orange (also mentioned as a favorite color). I've actually had my eye on the print she chose at IKEA - it is so fun and perfect for summer. A few weeks ago, I bought a navy spring jacket and was just thinking that I need to make a bag with some blue touches. Now I don't have to, because my partner made me the perfect bag :)

Two shops to feed the addiction

2009-04-03T11:11:00.001-07:00

Since I started sewing, I have found that building a fabric stash can be somewhat addictive. There are so many fun, modern prints and colors out there. Until recently, I did not know where to find some of these fabrics locally. (Which may or may not be a bad thing...speaking for my wallet)

My ultra-creative cousin told me about Sew to Speak in Columbus, OH. How fun..kid in a candy store kind of fun. I live two hours away, but during a recent business trip I carved out some time to stop in and drool. I could have spent all day just taking in the beautiful colors and patterns.

And right in my backyard, I discovered St. Theresa Textile Trove located in College Hill (Cincinnati), OH. What a find. The shop's tagline is "Purveyors of the Exotic & Beautiful." The shop is jam packed with unique fabrics - Japanese prints, batiks, oilcloth, African prints, Hawaiian barkcloth along with a small selection of Amy Butler, Joel Dewberry and Tina Givens fabrics. A nice feature is a treasure trunk full of fat quarters; what a great way to try some new fabrics. They also offer an extensive collection of buttons and beads. All of the unique beads make me want to take a jewelry making class.

I controlled myself in both places and only walked out with less than a yard total from each store and a few odds and ends. I am glad to find some local, independent shop owners to frequent.

Patterns, Prints, Plans

2009-03-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have several works in progress (and works to start soon), all clothing for the spring and summer. I have plenty of solid clothes in my wardrobe, so these prints will add some fun.

Over the weekend, I started a top from Simplicity 2892. I am making the sleeveless version that is the large picture on the pattern envelope. It has a fun ruffle element that was a nice technique to try. The teal jacquard cotton is not a print a would usually choose, but the colors felt so fresh for spring. I would love to duplicate this style in my daughter's size. This is the first time I have used a commercial pattern since junior high, so it's been a nice refresher! The pattern had at least 9 or 10 pieces to cut out, so that took some time. I also agonized over the size...these pattern sizes run so differently than ready to wear clothing. I cut out one size, then held it up to my body and realized how huge it was and cut down to a smaller size.

The rust color print will become a Summer Blouse from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. I will likely make some adjustments to the book pattern. Fortunately, many others have made this blouse so I have been able to view pictures and comments on their various blogs. I am nearly finished making a Yard Sale Wrap Skirt (also from Weekend Sewing) from the white and red leaf print cotton. I have to make some major adjustments to the skirt for it to be wearable, at least for me. My version, cut to the pattern, is nearly a full circle skirt, way too full for my body shape. I think I'll just cut off the upper 6 inches or so of the skirt top, down to the point where the panels are much wider, to make it less full and knee length.

This weekend, I picked up Sew What Skirts and my first project will be either an a-line or beach wrap skirt from the black and white print. I like that this book gives directions to make your own patterns and try various techniques, so you can branch out from there.

Swap handbag finished!

2009-03-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

I mailed a Charming Handbag and some extra goodies to my BTRS Swap partner today. It was fun and I'm sure I'll do more swaps in the future! This one I made true to pattern size rather than enlarged and I actually like this smaller version better. My partner mentioned that a favorite color combination is teal and brown, and I noticed from her blog that she likes small patterns. The trim adds a little fancy element. The bag is dainty and will be perfect for a night out to dinner.

Frenchy Bag

2009-03-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I had the house to myself, so I took advantage of the time and made a bag. This is the shoulder bag version of the Frenchy Bag pattern by Amy Butler. The fabric is from IKEA. I love the bold pattern in the main fabric. It is home decor fabric, so the heavy weight gave nice body to the bag, made for sharp pleats and did not require interfacing. I did add fusible fleece interfacing to the top portion to ensure sturdiness.

The black contrast fabric is part of a larger bird print. I decided to keep the outside clean with solid black pieces. For the inside of the top portion, though, I cut from the printed areas. I like that it is unexpected and fun.

The pattern was easy to follow. I completed the steps out of order and constructed the lining bag first. I am so glad I did, because it allowed me some "warm-up" time to practice sewing the curved seams and connecting the bottom and top pieces just right. Again, with this project, I learned some helpful tips. This pattern uses an easy folding method for squaring up the fabric...much easier than cutting. And I finally learned how to make good straps!

My First Swap

2009-03-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

I signed up for the latest Bend the Rules Sewings Swap.
This is my first swap and I love the concept. If you are not familiar with sewing swaps - I was paired with another swapper and received an email describing her likes, dislikes, favorite colors and patterns, etc. I was also able to link to her blog to view her past projects, which gives some great insight to choose her fabrics. Over the next three weeks, I will make her a Charming Handbag. while she does the same for me. Then we swap, mailing the finished handbags to each other! How fun is that?

A creative space...found

2009-03-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

A couple of months ago, I was wishing for some space and I found it! Our small living room is the coziest room in the house, with great natural light, but it was, for the most part, usued space. After multiple (4, 5...I lost count) trips to IKEA, my sewing supplies have vacated the dining room and have a home. My daughter's art supplies and hubby's books are stored along with my sewing supplies in the wall of IKEA bookcases. The storage boxes and baskets cleverly hide all of our goodies and my growing fabric stash and sewing book collection. The sewing machine cover is a repurposed $3 pillow cover found in the IKEA As-Is section. The Amy Butler organizer was a find at the local Michaels store.

The room now feels even cozier and functional and has become a creative space for the whole family. We find ourselves in the room on a daily basis, reading, sewing and coloring together. Last night my 3 year old daughter was my creative assistant, snipping threads for me with her "cutty things."

Pleated Beauty Handbag, finally finished

2009-03-01T08:34:00.001-08:00

This project, the Pleated Beauty Hanbag from Bend the Rules Sewing, has been in process for what seems like a couple of months now. I have been busy with life in general and have completed bits and pieces of this bag when I could. This was my first try at embroidery and I like the interest it adds to the bag. I echoed the leaf pattern on the pleating fabric with a basic running stitch.

I altered the straps from the book directions. To make them more sturdy, I added rigid interfacing (Pellon 70) and made them 1.5 wide. I like the outcome.

With each project, I find that I learn a few lessons. The main fabric is a linen suiting which was difficult to work with - stretchy and drapey, not ideal for such a structured bag. I added fusible interfacing which made the bag less floppy but the linen puckered a little after multiple pressings. Toward the end, there was just too much bulk in the finished seams. My little sewing machine struggled sewing the seam around the top due to the bulk from the pleats and handles. There should be an edgestitch around the top, but I can't even get the finished edge under my pressure foot. I'll settle for a good press at the top.

Goodies on the way

2009-02-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

These pretties are on their way to my home from Hancock's of Paducah. Fabrics 1, 3 and 4 are by Anna Maria Horner and 2 is by Heather Bailey. These are my first "designer" fabric purchases and they can't arrive soon enough.

The first two will become a handbag. The second two will cover a bulletin board in my office. I need something beautiful and inspiring to look at all day in my non-creative occupation!

A gift

2009-02-04T19:15:00.000-08:00

Today I made this clutch as a going away gift for a co-worker. She loves tiny purses, so I thought this would work well for her. I started with a basic zip pouch and sewed across the corners to make a flat bottom. I fused some interfacing to the lining to keep the bag sturdy. Initially I didn't intend to add the ribbon trim, but I needed to cover a line of stitching that resulted from a moment of craziness when I sewed in the zipper. Then I thought, why not just continue the ribbon into a loop handle and create a wristlet. To give the polka dot design a more modern feel, I added the varied lines of stitching. I hope she likes it!

Current Reads

2009-01-30T11:26:00.000-08:00

Sew U by Wendy Mullin is a good primer for sewing clothing and includes three patterns for skirts, pants and shirt. The first few chapters start with very basic information about fabric, notions and tools, sewing basics, etc. Experienced sewers may find this too elementary, but I picked up some great tips. I haven't cracked open the patterns yet...I'll start slow with some basic childrens clothing.

I just borrowed The Creative Family by Amanda Blake Soule from the library and am still in the introduction. It contains many great ideas to encourage creativity within your home. In the introduction, she relays how having children awakened her creativity which has been the case for me.

Oh how I wish I had some space of my very own...

2009-01-28T17:55:00.000-08:00

Since I'm new to the sewing/crafting thing, I have not carved out a crafty place. Right now, the dining room has been serving that purpose. There are advantages to this arrangement - utilizing otherwise unused space and being close to the family. On the other hand, I have found that being close to the family can be detrimental to the sewing process! Case in point tonight as I worked on a top for my daughter (yes my first stab at clothing!), she decided to run off with the half-finished garment, wad it up and leave it on the floor. Later in the night, I caught my hubby on his way out the front door...with my shears in hand...planning to use them to knock ice off the satellite dish! Um, no, let's rethink that!

My first handbag!

2009-01-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

Here is my completed Charming Handbook from Bend the Rules Sewing (BTRS). This was my first try at a handbag and I am happy with the outcome. The print is a Robert Kaufman fabric found at the local Hancock Fabric and it is paired with a corduroy. I may redo the handles to make them longer and wider; they don't quite feel right in hand. I added an interior pocket on each side; the one shown is divided to hold my blackberry and ipod. Even though I increased the pattern dimensions by 10%, the bag is fairly small. Sewing the curved seam was harder to sew than expected, thus my new relationship with the seam ripper!

I have another half-yard of the print fabric and am anxious to use it!

Things to do in 2009

2009-01-12T13:45:00.000-08:00

Start composting (been talking about it for a year)

Grow some vegetables and herbs (the compost should help with this)

Sew clothing (this will be a first for me)

Get a home energy audit

Eat healthier and be more active (cliche, I know, but needed)

My new BFF

2009-01-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

My seam ripper and I are becoming good friends. The handbag project was moving along well. I sewed the lining bag to the outer bag and turned it out. The seams were yucky, puckery. So I ripped the whole thing out.

I have to keep in mind that I'm a beginner at this and not perfect yet :)

A good read...and good eats

2009-01-06T11:44:00.000-08:00

Last year, we joined a CSA (community supported agriculture) at a local farm. We will be members again this year. Over the summer, it was nice to establish the ritual of visiting the farmers market each Saturday morning as a family, picking up our share of the farm's produce harvest and interacting with others. My little one loved going from booth to booth looking at the colorful vegetables. Our farmers market offers everything from handmade jewelry and naturally raised meats and poultry to homemade dog treats, spice rubs and honey to fresh-made salsa that doesn't last past the weekend at home.

In preparation for making use of the bounty of produce that will begin rolling in this May, I am reading, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, by Barbara Kingsolver. The author (who also wrote one of my favorite books The Poisonwood Bible) and her family moved to a farm and pledged to grow their own food and eat only locally grown/produced food for a year. I have now read a few months into their adventure. The book is full of inspiration for eating seasonally available foods and for not relying on processed foods, lost concepts in the age of the unending aisles of our supermarkets, with produce shipped-in from all corners of the globe. Do we really need to eat asparagus or watermelon in January? As I read the book, I fondly remember summer days growing up on the farm, eating sweet corn and green beans from our backyard and cherries from my great-grandmother's tree.

I would love to make an attempt at a small vegetable and herb garden this year. What a great learning process for my daughter (and fun for me). So many ideas...

Another Simple Tote

2009-01-04T19:46:00.000-08:00

Today I made another Simple Tote (from BTRS). This one was made slightly larger - the beginning pieces were 12.5" x 11". The tote was made to compliment the zip pouch and tissue holder from the previous post which were christmas gifts for my mother. I had only two small scraps of the yellow print fabric, so I used it to make an interior pocket and the panel for the front of the bag. I fused the yellow print to the khaki cotton with some Wonder Under interfacing and the fabric puckered a bit, so I probably won't try that again. After the tote was finished I realized I could have easily made the yellow panel an exterior pocket to add some function. The dark brown fabric is a rayon blend I found as a remnant. It made a nice soft finish for the bag but was impossible to use for the straps, as it would not press well before stitching.

Right now I am making my first attempt at making a handbag and can't wait to post the results!

Handmade Holidays

2009-01-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

Fortunately, my burst of craftiness coincided with the Holidays, so I was able to make some handmade gifts for my family.

This is my favorite creation so far, probably since it was for my daughter. This follows the Simple Tote design from Amy Karol's Bend the Rules Sewing. I love the dot fabric which I found at the local Hancocks. I will definitely make some more of these, but will adjust the dimensions to "adult" size.

This Vintage Apron (also from Bend the Rules) was for my stepmother, an accomplished sewer. Sewing this was a nice way to refresh my long-ago-learned sewing skills and was my first crack at gathering. The possibilities are endless with this design by adding different shaped/sized pockets, ruffles and embellishments.

I made a few of these sets. The zip pouch is from Bend the Rules. The little tissue cozy, perfect for purse packs of tissues, is made from this tutorial. These were fun to make and are a great way to use fabric scraps. The zip pouch was my first try at sewing in zippers and handsewing in a lining.

For my niece, I made this handmade Memory Game using family photos, favorite characters and familiar symbols, all gifted in a sewn drawstring bag. To make the cards, I set up a template in Powerpoint and inserted the pictures along with overlayed cutting lines. I then printed the Powerpoint slides on matte brochure cardstock. To give the cards some thickness and rigidness before cutting, I fused the printed cardstock along with three other pieces of colored cardstock together with mounting spray. Then I cut out the cards with a cutting mat and craft knife. Next time, I might just use two pieces of cardstock to make the cards easier to cut.

Call me old-fashioned with a modern twist

2008-12-30T12:57:00.000-08:00

My initial sewing skills were gained by observing my mother, grandmothers and step-mother. Vivid memories include cute little corduroy ensembles sewn for me by my grandmother, sweet doll clothes created together with my mother and beautiful bridesmaid dresses created by my mother and step-mother for my wedding.

Those skills (and my sewing machine) were gaining dust until recently when I discovered the world of modern craftiness. Inspired by other family members of my generation getting bit by the creativity bug, I started poking around on the web and was amazed by the number of women eager to share their beautiful creations and tutorials. I also found inspiration from Amy Karol's Bend the Rules Sewing book which inspired me to think outside conventional patterns and traditional fabrics.

I never considered myself crafty, but always felt the urge to be creative. Now suddenly I feel like I pulled out the stopper and the ideas are flooding my mind.

Creating things in the spirit of the women in my family is a time-honored tradition that I want to continue and allow my daughter to observe (and absorb). In our current world of materialism and consumption, where we feel like we are working just to make it to each weekend, it is comforting to slow-down and create beautiful things to share with others.