Girls in the Garden

New Look 6648

2012-01-28T13:52:00.001-06:00

I have made this top several times, it is one of Erin's favorites and mine, too.
You can check the past blog posts:
Pink floral version (Erin's)
black and white geometric version (mine)
blue stripe version (Erin's)
first version (mine)

See a pattern here?

Well, time for another one for Erin, I used the wrapped version this time, with the large butterfly type sleeves. She picked out a fabulous knit from Fabric Mart (purchased quite some time ago, influenced by Carolyn!)

The fabric is sheer, so a cami will be needed.

Used a solid black knit for the binding.

love the back - the fabric is so dramatic

Simplicity 2512

2012-01-26T11:14:00.002-06:00

Pattern Description: Misses' skirts with varying waistband and front draping details. I made View B with the sweetheart waistband, gathers and binding.
Sizing: 4 to 22; I made Meredith a size 10. This pattern was a bit hard to decide where to start with the correct pattern size, no finished measurements on the pattern pieces. I took a guess on the 10, comparing the waistband to a skirt in her closet.

Instructions: They were easy to follow and had good order to the steps

Like/Dislikes: Meredith liked the style of the skirt, something similar she had pinned from RTW. The only dislike is the ties are thin. Meredith really likes the pockets, too.

Changes: I omitted the binding on the hem and the waistband. I added 1" to the hem to compensate for no binding and turning up the hem. I used the facing from the waistband and made a traditional waistband (RST, stitch, turn RS out and slipstitch into place). I also used an invisible zipper.

Fabric: Rayon type fabric from Joann's, beautiful hand and drape.

Conclusion: This is a winner, Meredith loved her skirt and wants another one. Kailtlyn also wants one, too. I will change the ties to be longer (girls want to tie a bow) and then wider the last 20" to make the bow fuller.

Meredith is a bit thin in this picture, had the flu over the weekend and lost 8 pounds!

On the Wardrobe sewalong, my package of fabric arrived today - guess what was sold out and I didn't get? You guessed it the black ponte! I am behind already, off to call Anne at Needle Nook and get some on the way.

Pant Construction Tips

2012-01-24T07:16:00.002-06:00

Here are some pant construction tips and hints to help with those ponte pants.

New Mexico State Article

Sewing in a zipper - Threads

Choose the Correct Size - Threads

Sigrid's Pant tutorials

You Tube Video - Angela Kane

You Tube Video - Sew Pants that Fit

You Tube video - Sandra Betzina Success with Multi-Size patterns

You Tube Video - Sew What's New with George Trippon (this is part 1 of 3 - you can access the rest after watching the first one)

Threads fly Front - thanks Karin and Angela

Collette pants fitting - thanks Lynne B

If you know of more tutorials or information on the internet, put it in the comments and I will add it to this post.

Thanks so much.

Start Your Sewing Machines - the Official Start of the Wardrobe Basic Sewalong

2012-01-22T19:48:00.002-06:00

Let's make Monday, January 23rd, the official start of the Wardrobe Basic Sewalong.

Take a look at my original post for the basic information and for review here are the items

1. Slim Black Pants (on the segment they called these ponte pants)

2. Dark Skinny Jeans

3. White button shirt

4. Black turtleneck\

5.Camel - khaki skirt

6.Tie Waist Sweater

7. Puffy Vest (you can make this a jacket/blazer)

8. Faux Fur Vest\

9. Black Dress

You can adapt them as necessary for your needs, comfort level and style.

Let's start with the first item on the list, black pants. Reference my pants post for RTW inspiration, patterns and fabric ideas.

My fabric is on the way and my pattern has been purchased, so I am ready to sew pants this week.

If you are participating here is a button you can add to your blog.

You can add it to the side of your blog with the html code to link to the original post so others may join us. If you are wanting to put the button on the side of your blog in blogger you would add a gadget and then a picture. It allows a picture and a link. HTH

Take a look at Lynne's blog this week for more with this sewalong and I will be posting on another garment with patterns, fabrics and inspiration.

If you post a comment on this blogpost that you are in, I will add you to the list of participants and link your blog.

1. Lori
2. Lynne of Wonderfully Made
3. Barbara of Working with Delight
4. Jodie ( no blog but posting great comments)
5. Tonia of The Enchanted Daydreamer
6. Angela of The Creative Diva
7. Karin of Sew Here We Go Again
8. Katie of Kadiddlehopper
9. Marie (no blog but posting comments and we can link flckr page)
10. Yvette of Sew Today, Wear Tomorrow
11. Sandi
12. Renae of Seams Awesome
13. Patty of Sew Much Knitting
14. Jamye of Straight Stitch
15. Doobee of Doobee's Creations
16. Bonnie of Tres Bon Babble (informally participating)
17. Kris O of Needle to Say
18 Nikki
19. Mari
20. Knitcognito
21. YOU??

Now comment if I have left you off, I tried to get everyone from the previous post.

Simplicity 2246

2012-01-19T08:59:00.000-06:00

Pattern Description: Fitted and semi-fitted shirtdress with varied sleeves and hems

Sizing: 6 to 22, I made Kailtyn a 10. Kaitlyn loves a shirt dress and the team dresses up for away basketball games. She wanted a new one for her wardrobe.

Instructions: Very easy to follow, I really like how they have the pocket finished. "Turn upper edge to the inside along fold line forming facing, press. To make tuck, on outside, fold along tuck line, catching the raw edge of facing/ Stitch 1/4" from fold. Press fold of tuck down, pressing upper edge of pocket out." Great way to have a clean finished pocket. Here is the one for Kaitlyn's dress, I cut it on the bias.

Throughout the instruction sheet, you will find "a lisette tip" . These include how to edgestitch, reinforce the pocket with a small triangle at the top, staystitching, ease stitch, gathering and how to turn the collar. Great tips for a beginner and great reminders for a more experienced sewer.

Likes/Dislikes: Cute shirtdress with a younger feel and two hem/length variations There is no yokes and the collar and band is cut as one but this is something you could change (a slight dislike) but the collar/band combination does lay very nicely. I do like the fact is does include a front band, wider hems for the sleeves for turn up cuffs.

Fabric: A cotton stripe from Joann's. My Joann's had no shirtings, we found this in the quilting section.

Changes: Pockets on the bias to start. I cut view B, with the shorter length and shirttail hem. Oh, boy, way to short for Kaitlyn. It has been awhile since I have sewn for her and mom couldn't remember my baby is as tall as me! So time to "make it work" in the words of Tim Gunn. I had just enough fabric left to cut a hem band with the stripe running horizontally. I think it looks great and was an intended design feature instead "oh, my gosh, fix this"!

Conclusion: Great shirtdress, good instructions and pretty good fit. Kaitlyn stated this morning, her arms had limited motion. Not sure it was due to the stretch belt she had on, holding the dress in place or a shoulder, back or armsyce issue. Suggestions? Will explore more when she is not rushing out the door to school.

Reluctant model, too cold outside and I need to get to school!

Wardrobe Basic Sewalong

2012-01-19T00:11:00.000-06:00

So have you purchased any ponte? Any pant patterns? Used Pinterest or saved photos on your computer of ponte pant inspiration? I have my ponte on the way and the pattern purchased, although I may buy more ponte and another pattern. After finding all the patterns, I was set on making a slim fitting pant but may make another pair with a wider leg look from a New Look pattern.

This sewalong is gaining steam and my friend Lynne, of Wonderfully Made, and I are going to coordinate this sewalong together. Lynne expanded on the list with some other basics to extend our wardrobe to the next season. Take a look at Lynne's post for her ideas and a polyvore inspiration board.

We have been brainstorming on many ideas for this sewalong, including the Sew-Along, Link Parties, and finishing up with a blogger's fashion show, a contest and lots of fun posts!

I find this entire concept very exciting and believe we can encourage one another on this sewalong. The sewing blogging community is such an inspiration and we hope this sewalong provides inspiration for wardrobe basics.

Polyvore of items from the basic wardrobe post. Can't you see the possibilities already?

So take a look at my original post on the sewalong and update your list of what you need to sew. Combine it with Lynne's list and refine it to your needs, it can be one garment or it could be ten garments.

So the big question is "Will you join us?"

Simplicity 2152

2012-01-17T22:31:00.001-06:00

Description: Misses' skirt in three lengths with trim variations sewing pattern.

Sizing: 6 to 22

Instructions: They were very easy to follow.

Likes/dislikes: I like everything about this skirt, I went to Pattern Review to check out this pattern and this review by Goodbye Valentino said it perfectly, "I really like the movement of the skirt without being too full." This pattern has several options and possibilities for several different skirts.

Fabric: woven/lycra I have had in my stash for awhile, I think I bought it at Wal-Mart

Changes: I added a lining, can't stand my skirt sticking to my tights in the winter. On the lining I added lace, just like Carolyn does (and she posted the lace in today's blogpost)

I also changed the zipper from a lapped zipper to an invisible zipper.

Conclusion: This is the first of many skirts from this pattern, I really like the fit and style. I ran short on fabric, so it might be a bit too short. Next time I am addignn 1-2".

Lightened so you could see the details

Wardrobe Planning -Black Ponte Pants

2012-01-17T06:19:00.002-06:00

Time to plan your black pants, I am going with ponte fabric for this post and these pants. Now the pants can be what is best for your body and your comfort level. You can go with a legging, a skinny pant, straight leg, bootcut or flare.

To start let's get inspired from RTW.

From Kohl's bootcut ponte pants

Cabi bootlet -ponte

Cabi flare ponte pants

from net-a-porter - Michael Michael Kors skinny ponte pant

From Kohls,

Ralph Lauren skinny ponte pants

Vera Wang ponte pants from Kohls

Jennifer Lopez skinny ponte pants - Kohls

Then an entire selection at Neiman Marcus so take a look at all that ponte pant eye candy!

Then we need to talk patterns:

McCall's 6515

McCall's 6440

McCall's 6404

Butterick 5539

Kwik Sew 3807

Kwik Sew 3540

New Look 6977

Jalie 2561

Colette 1019

Burda 8341

New Look 6983

New Look 6082

New Look 6922

Style Arc - Elle Pant

Style Arc - Linda Stretch Pant

Now let's move onto fabric selections

Fabric Mart ponte

Gorgeous Fabric ponte (didn't see black here)

Fabric.com ponte

Hancock's ponte fabric

Marcy Titlon's ponte fabric

Emma One Sock black ponte

Fashion Fabric Club

You can Anne at Needle Nook Fabric for her ponte selection

Nancy Notions ponte fabric

Now if you have made it to the end of this blog post, I hope you find it helpful and not overwhelming. This list of RTW inspiration pieces, patterns and fabric sources is in no way a complete list but a starting point for you to find the right style, pattern and fabric.

Good luck. Please let me know what you find and what pattern you are using.

Simplicity 2283

2012-01-15T22:56:00.002-06:00

Description: Misses top with front shoulder yoke and neckline variations: cowl or pleated. Choice of sleeveless, long sleeves with pleated sleeve cap, or vertically pleated cap sleeve

Sizes:6 to 22

Fabric: Rayon-lycra knit purchased from a Fabric Warehouse.

Likes/Dislikes: Well, if you have followed my blog, I am into the cowl necklines. I also liked the neckline shape, a bit different but still covers the bra straps. The drape of the neckline ( I made the cowl neckline)
A dislike is the pleated sleeves (so I omitted)

Instructions: Very good, easy to follow especially the yoke front (illustrations most helpful on the pattern insturctions)

Changes: Added length about 1", used the sleeve pattern from another Simplicity knit top so I didn't have the pleated sleeves. I didn't particularly like the look of the pleated sleeve and didn't want to take that much time.

Conclusion: A great new top, very comfortable, stylish and looks pretty good. I had made this for Erin but when I tried it on, decided to keep for myself!

excuse the big hair - wind coming from my back and made my hair bigger and fluffier than normal

Basic Wardrobe Sewalong

2012-01-15T09:30:00.000-06:00

After my Wardrobe planning post on Saturday, I had a few comments and emails about a Basic Wardrobe Sewalong. This is a great ideas, so I thought I would put the idea out there and get this sewalong started.

Here is the list from via The Nate Berkus Show of 12 items for the winter must haves in your wardrobe

1. Slim Black Pants (on the segment they called these ponte pants)
2. Dark Skinny Jeans
3. White button shirt
4. Black turtleneck\
5.Camel - khaki skirt
6.Tie Waist Sweater
7. Puffy Vest
8. Faux Fur Vest\
9. Black Dress
10. Riding Boot
11. Black patent pumps
12. tights

Now we cannot sew 10, 11 and 12 but we can sew the first 9, so let's get started with those items.

Today, go into your closet. See what items you do and don't have from these 8 basic wardrobe garments. If you do have a white shirt, is it time to make another one? Do you need a second one?

My plan is post through the list with pattern suggestions and fabric suggestions. Feel free in the comments to add other pattern suggestions. If we get through this and are having fun maybe we will move onto the other items to add to your basic wardrobe for 30 days of mix and match outfits.

Post a comment if you are interested in doing this, post on your blog and link back to this post so others can participate and let's get our basic wardrobes updated and ready!

Wardrobe Planning

2012-01-14T09:00:00.002-06:00

I like to record The Nate Berkus Show and then watch the episodes when I have time. Yesterday
(1-13-12), had a great segment on your wardrobe. 20 Cheap Chic Winter Looks. The host of this segment, Lilliana (Cheap Chica) said you start with your basics and here they are (copied from Nate Berkus website)

Basic Wardrobe Must-Haves

Let's start with the basics. Before you're ready to create a month of looks, check your closet to make sure your have Lilliana's list of eight must-have wardrobe essentials. And if you're missing any items, we've listed where you can find each item at an affordable price!

Slim Black Pants (Kohl's - $28.80)

Dark Skinny Jeans (Gap - $49)

White Button Down (Old Navy - $26.50)

Black Turtleneck (JC Penney - $19.99)

Camel Skirt (JC Penney - $47.92)

Black Dress (Target - $29.69)

Tie Waist Sweater (JC Penney - $29.99)

Puffy Vest (Forever 21 - $22)

Faux Fur Vest (JC Penney - $29)

Riding Boot (DSW - $109)

Black Patent Pumps (Target - $24.99)

Tights - No nude hose - try textured or patterned. (Charlotte Russe - $6.50)

Then you add these items for less than $200

Go to Lilliana's site for links to purchase these items

Then take these new 8 items with the must-have basics and you get 30 days of outfits

Source The Nate Berkus show

Some of these items might not what you or I want in our wardrobe but it was a great visual concept to see how to get the most out of our wardrobe and our sewing. Makes me thnk about my garments in an entire new way.

You can head to the Nate link above and check out each outfit.

Simplicity 2728 - Cabi Inspired

2012-01-07T15:04:00.003-06:00

I have made this pattern for Erin with linen and here is the original review. As you know, Lynne and I like to watch Cabi blog and they had this tweed jacket:

Source Cabi

You know what they say about best laid plans? My jacket really didn't turn out like the inspiration except for my tweed fabric.

I cut my jacket out the last week of November and then Christmas came. I decided to make all those Sophia and Weekender bags making the Cabi-inspired jacket lost in the to-do pile.

Fast-forward to December 23rd, the bags are complete and I didn't feel like starting on the jacket unitl after the New Year. Instead I did a very needed cleaning of my sewing room and in this process threw away my Simplicity 2728. I went by Hobby Lobby on January 2nd but they did not have the pattern. Being a person who cannot start another project until the one is finished, I forged ahead.

I did not cut out the collar, who knows why? Looking at the line drawing, the collar is perfect for the inspiration piece, wide and full shaped.

One thing I did add was leather pocket flaps, cut from an old purse. I had seen leather on jackets in RTW and wanted to incorporate this.

I used quilting cotton on the underside of the flaps

Here is the finished jacket front

Here is the back

Overall, I am quite pleased with my jacket, I do wish it had a collar but I will still enjoy wearing it.

Hot Pink Top - New Look 6648

2012-01-03T15:29:00.001-06:00

I finished by wool blazer but need to get to Joann's for buttons. For the time being, I made this hot pink top for Erin. New Look 6648 made for the fourth time in this pink flower fabric from Hancock's. We bought this in October and when the clerk rang it up - $2.48 a yard! Yea! You can read this blogpost and it will have the links for all the previous garments.

Gotta love a quick project.

Amy Butler's Weekender Bag - Tips, Hints and a bit of a Tutorial

2012-01-02T21:11:00.000-06:00

Okay, here is my post on some hints, tips and construction points for the Weekender bag. I have pictures from the construction of all three of my recent Weekender bags. Throughout this post, I will link some great tutorials I have found on bag construction. The instructions for this bag are good and I will just add a bit when putting the entire bag together.

My first thing is to highly encourage you to buy a piping foot or a single welt cord foot (home dec type foot) if you don't own one. I think the single welt cord foot has a deeper groove for larger piping. This will make the construction of this bag so much easier.
Here is a picture of my foot

From Husqvarna

Next, buy the 30" zipper, this is not the easiest thing to find. I picked out some fabric for my first Weekender Bag and couldn't find a good match for a 30" zipper. You can usually find these in black, white and cream. The zipper doesn't show much but a nice match is always helpful. The material list states a non-separating zipper but I have used a separating zipper and stitched that part together.

Plan on cutting out all the fabric, interfacing and peltex at one time, this will take at least an hour. Then fuse the interfacing to all pieces. Don't rush the fusing, you want a nice bond.

I fuse interfacing to the exterior fabric:

Top panel (I fuse 2 pieces of interfacing to these panels - I like the stiffness for this area since you do not use peltex here)
bottom panel
End pocket panel
main panel
large pocket panel

I cut Peltex for:

Main Panels
Large Pocket Panel
Bottom

I also use Peltex in the handles. Here is a great tutorial on making the handles.

Picture Source - Sew Mama Sew

At this point in the handle construction, I measure the finish handle width, cut the Peltex about 1/8" less and then put the Peltex inside the handle for added stability.

When marking the main panel for the handles, I like to use a yellow chalk marker, this shows up nicely on the panels

The instructions state to sew across the top of the handles where attached to the bag, I like to stitch an "X" for added reinforcement

I use spray adhesive to hold the Peltex to the interfaced fabric pieces. It is important to baste on your piping through all the layers. I like to move my needle over one position to cover the stitching for the piping construction.

On my last three bags I did not put the piping on the bottom of the main panel. Easier to join all the layers in my opinion, Here is the end of the piping

Mark the middle of the top panel and the main panel, pin on top and bottom. Then pin all the way around, working carefully around the corners.

Now it is time to wrestle the bag to sew all these layers together. So attach that single welt foot, move the needle to the over (closer to the piping) and start stitching.

Now to the do as I say not as I do part. I normally stitch this with the basting stich up, you can make sure you are sewing over the previous stitching and getting very close to the piping.

After I get all this stitched, I make sure I have sewn close to the piping.

If you have some places with the seam too far away from the piping, this is the time to correct that.

After all of this, I trim the Peltex away from the seam allowance

Before attaching the lining into the bag, I like to add purse feet to the bottom of the bag

Purse feet in upper left corner - hard to see on this fabric

I found a fantastic tutorial for this when making my first Sophia Bag, check it out here

Finally, I only put one large pocket panel on my Weekender bags, using the exterior fabric for both sides.

On the other side of Erin's bag, I made a pocket like this one:

I just measured the space between the handles and added the pocket under the handles, stitching the handles and pocket in place.

To recap, here are pictures of the Weekender Bags I have made

The houndstooth is mine and it does have piping on the bottom.

Helped my friend on this one

I hope this helps, please email me if you need any other information or clarification.

She's 22

2012-01-01T18:22:00.003-06:00

Erin's birthday today and time to celebrate.

Kaitlyn and Meredith made the cake, tinted a white cake and made it marbled with Erin's favorite colors - orange and aqua

Sewing note:

Working on a jacket for me, Simplicity 2728, only one problem, I majorly cleaned my sewing room on December 23rd. Guess what I threw away? Yes, the pattern envelope, instructions and collar pattern pieces. Tomorrow heading to Joann's to buy another pattern.

Top 11 in 2011 for My Daughters

2011-12-30T01:25:00.001-06:00

Today's post is the Top 10 sewn items for my girls. I thought I would post it seperately from my own clothes, since some of the things are quite different.

1.Butterick 5327

2.McCall's 5525

3. McCall's 5313

4.Simplicity 2580

5. Simplicity 3678

10.Sophia Bags

11. Weekender Bags

One thing I know for sure, sewing for my girls is fun.

Top 11 in 2011 for Me

2011-12-29T06:57:00.001-06:00

Time to review what I have sewn for me in 2011, a nice time to reflect and re-organize my thoughts on my garment sewing.

1. Vogue 1197

2. Butterick 5562

3. Simplicity 2284

4. New Look 6617

5. McCall's 6282

6. Vogue 1250 and here (two garments but counting once since same pattern!)

7. McCall's 5525

8. New Look 6030

9. Vogue 8747

10.McCall's 6078

11. Butterick 5495 (another one pattern two garments)

Now my observations:
This year I had a nice assortment of garments throughout the year from various fabrics. This is good for me since I tend to sew with knits and make lots of tops usually. My top eleven only included one (thanks, Carolyn) Simplicity pattern (yes, New Look but not Simplicity), another change for me. In previous years, I would sew almost all Simplicity patterns. Does this say I am branching out or the pattern companies are offering more of what I am looking for? I would say a bit of both. Also, I have been doing a better job of getting pictures of the garments on me, not just my dressform.

Next year? I want to make Vogue 8747 a couple more times, I really like that blouse. Look to RTW for more inspiration, my Cabi-inspired trench sees quite a bit of wear. Also, continue to make dresses, those are easy, go-to pieces in my wardrobe.

One more observation- my sewing was 50% for me this year and 50% for my daughters (mainly Erin's teaching clothes), so tomorrow a top 11 for those garments.

Weekender Bags Times 3

2011-12-25T22:29:00.001-06:00

I finished all three Amy Butler Weekender Bags for Christmas.

Kaitlyn, Erin and Meredith

Erin's is actually part of her birthday present (January 1st) but I couldn't wait to give it to her.

I took some pictures of the construction process and will write a post with some hints and tips

Sharing this on

.

Sharing on Tater Tots and Jello

Joy to the World

2011-12-25T09:36:00.000-06:00

Joy to the World , the Lord is come!

Let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare Him room,

And Heaven and nature sing,

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Last Gift Completed and Wrapped

2011-12-23T19:48:00.000-06:00

I wanted to make something for my older two daughters, Paige and Erin. They both have beautiful homes and really enjoy decorating for Christmas.

I started out with these pictures, purchased for 10 cents each at Dollar General

I painted the entire picture and frame in the same paint. For the past 12 days, Silhouette has been graciously giving a design a day for the 12 days of Christmas. I have been downloading them each and every day. I used a free design on each of the girls' pictures.

Here is Paige's:

Next Erin's:

I have a couple of gifts (sewing ones) that I will share after Christmas, I don't want a couple of people knowing what they are getting.

With these two gifts, I am finished crafting and sewing. The presents are all wrapped, the food is purchased, cookies made and sampled!

Tomorrow is the day for my older two girls to come home with their guys and we have Christmas with them. Then off to my mom and dad's for Christmas Eve with 16 of us. I can't wait, it will be so fun.

Deck the Halls

2011-12-23T07:54:00.001-06:00

All my projects are completed, the presents are wrapped, the cookies baked, groceries purchased for the dinners and the house is all decked out. So I thought I would share some pictures of my home ready for the Christmas celebration.

I will start with the dining room.

My newest addition, a banner found at my local drug store

Buffet with a collection of white Santas, my aunt gave me one each Christmas for many years. Cross stitch picture made by my Mom.

Close up of Santas and cloche

Hutch with mercury glass, red plates and ruffled trees (made by Kaitlyn)

Trees

Reindeer and mercury glass tree

Dining room table. The tree in the background is artificial and we don't put some of the branches in the back on the lower part. This allows the tree to be closer to the wall and doesn't stick out into the room. Ornaments are glass, silver and gold, mostly angels.

Now to the family room:

I just put these in new frames, so updated my pictures. I made the middle one and my mom made the other two for me. Each year when I pull these out, I think I should cross stitch again.

So happy I painted this aqua, it really looks great with all the red accents

Red accents

These beautiful gourds were painted by my aunt (same one who gives me the white santas)

The girls started giving me these wooden santas and snowmen years ago.

My mother-in-law started the collection with this Santa

Now the bedroom:

Ornament wreaths and PB inspired pillows

We have a small electric fireplace in the master bedroom and here is the mantle - I made the cross stitch Santa, my aunt has moved onto blue santas for me.

Close up of Santa

Small tree in the room.

Merry Christmas!

Cupcakes Anyone?

2011-12-22T15:15:00.000-06:00

We have been busy baking the last two days.

Here is a sampling of the cupcakes the twins have made.

Meredith went with Rudolph. Found at Family Fun

Kaitlyn's choice was Christmas Trees

Candy shaped stars were called for the topper on these trees but we couldn't find anything like that. I cut stars with my Silhouette and we made cupcake toppers with toothpicks. Find the instructions here

Quick Gift Idea

2011-12-22T07:21:00.001-06:00

Are you looking for a quick, easy and very useful gift idea? This morning I made just such a gift, two, in fact.
At the first of December, I printed off these Circle Zip Earbud Pouch Tutorial for the twins. They never can find their earbuds and this little pouch would be the perfect solution. Fast forward to December 22nd and guess what I hadn't made yet. Thanks to Stacy Sews wonderful Linky Thursday, which the earbud pouch was one of the links, I was reminded that these were on my to-do list.

I had 30 minutes to spare this morning before work and the girls are still sleeping (Christmas break). I made two of these in less than 20 minutes. Now they can fasten them to their backpack or car key ring and always have their earbuds handy.

Two More Poinsettia Pillows

2011-12-21T13:45:00.000-06:00

One for me and one for a friend.

One More Gift Completed

2011-12-20T06:07:00.000-06:00

This is the Bungalow Bag pattern, wrapped and ready to go now.

Poinsettia Pillow

2011-12-18T15:26:00.000-06:00

I used a combination of two patterns. The first, Amy Butler's Snow Mum pillow (free download) and the second, Censational Girl. My first intention was to use only the Amy Butler pattern but it was too much aqua and tone-on-tone. I remembered the pillow from Censational Girl and used the petals for a base. After sewing on the larger petals, I then attached my snow mum.

This one is for Erin for Christmas and her color scheme for the holiday is aqua and red.

December - Month of bags and Purses

2011-12-15T22:39:00.001-06:00

Bags and Purses might be the only thing I get accomplished this month. Here is a bag I was hired to make for a present, actually two but I only photographed one. They have been delivered, mark those off the list. Late last night I finished a bag for Erin, she wanted it for a gift for her future sister-in-law (photograph soon)

Tonight I should have worked on Kaitlyn's Weekender bag but I just couldn't find any mojo. Instead I watched television with the girls and then photographed some of the ornaments on my tree.

This is one I made years ago, using my embroidery machine. Beautiful digitizing on these designs.

I hope my mojo comes back and I can finish that bag, Christmas is coming quickly. What makes it harder is sewing when the girls don't come into my sewing room, that leaves early in the morning or late at night.

Birthday Presents - Sophia Bags

2011-12-11T17:44:00.000-06:00

Now that the girls have opened their birthday presents, I can put up the pictures. Two Amy Butler Sophia Bags, completed with 2 days to spare.

Meredith's

Kaitlyn's

They did pick out the fabric last week but I lead them to believe I would not be able to complete them in time. Meredith didn't even think I had purchased the fabric, Kailtyn said she thought I was making them but would get them for their Christmas.

Happy 17th Birthday!

2011-12-11T08:31:00.000-06:00

Wasn't it just yesterday you turned 16? This year has flown by but has been filled with many happy and wonderful moments.

Happy Birthday, Meredith and Kaitlyn!

Meredith on left, Kaitlyn on right.

Weekender Bag - Team sewing

2011-12-07T23:04:00.000-06:00

I helped a very good friend with a Weekender bag she is making for her mom for Christmas. We had two sewing machines humming this afternoon and evening. It was so much fun and her bag is gorgeous.

Take a look:

I finished one Sophia bag last night, now off to work a bit on the other bag.

Poinsettia Wreath

2011-12-05T20:41:00.000-06:00

A new wreath for my front door was needed this Christmas season. After seeing, V and Co. Poinsettia Wreath, I knew just the one I needed.

My only change was to cut the stems a bit longer so I could wrap them on the back of the grapevine wreath and hopefully keep the flowers on the wreath with the wind.

If you need a wreath this one is fast and easy.

Bungalow Bag

2011-12-03T21:59:00.001-06:00

I have made this pattern three times now. This one is for Erin to give to a very nice teacher, one who has taken Erin under her wing for her first year as a teacher.

This is a quick pattern, and I really enjoy making this pattern. Here is the first bag and the second one. I changed this one a bit. Added SF-101 Pellon interfacing on the band and the band lining, makes a must crisper finished project.

Mark another bag as done on my to-do list.

Christmas Presents or maybe Birthday

2011-12-02T19:20:00.014-06:00

Three of my four girls have birthdays in a 3 week period this month, so I have lots of shopping and creating to do. Last year I made Erin Amy Butler's Sophia Bag and the past 2 days I made her the Amy Butler Weekender Bag. We walk at our local rec center almost every night and tonight she said I really wanted that Weekender Bag last year for my birthday but you said it was too expensive to make. I said oh, sorry, I did say that and it is getting too late to make one for Christmas or your birthday, maybe next year. I am a tricky, sneaky mom and guess what I finished last night? Yes, her Weekender bag! Take a look:

I added the lining fabric between the straps and made a small pocket on one side.

Now she will have a complete set. So if you see Erin, sshhh don't tell her!

I am going to try to make two Sophia bags and two Weekender bags yet this month. Sophias for twin's birthdays and Weekenders for their Christmas.

I better get off this computer and go sew!

Stockings

2011-12-01T06:30:00.001-06:00

A sunshine filled day and I wanted to play with camera settings. I have reading on all my camera settings and trying to snap in manual instead of auto settings.

The stockings were my models.

Next year's project, another stocking for my soon-to-be son-in-law.

Jalie 2919

2011-11-30T22:04:00.001-06:00

I made another Jalie cardigan. Not sure how I feel about it but I do know one thing, it is very warm and I like that.

Fabric is a velour type knit, another $1.59 a yard special and that is my last yardage of my great buy.

Here is the original review.

What I Wore Today

2011-11-29T21:58:00.001-06:00

I have been sewing, just not getting any pictures, it is so hard with the short daylight hours. So here is a couple of pieces from my closet.

The top is Vogue 8597, blogpost here and the skirt was made way back when (2005) before I had a blog. It is Simplicity 9825 and you can read the review here. I have always liked this skirt and happy I have kept it in my closet so long. I do need to do a different belt or no belt. Not liling the look in the picture, too straight, need some definition in the outfit. Suggestions?

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T07:43:00.001-06:00

Have a great day with family and friends. We are getting ready to hit the road for a 5 hour drive for our Thanksgiving celebration.

We are taking these cute little treats which Kailtyn made last night

Aren't those darling pilgram hats? We are putting in the way back so I don't eat them all on the way.

Happy Thanksgving

Signature Style Winner

2011-11-23T06:08:00.001-06:00

I used random.org for the drawing and it picked

And number one is Margaret, congratualtions!

Send me an email with your mailing address and I will get the book headed your way.

Thanks everyone for the great comments on what you are thankful for, very fun to read.

A Thankfulness Giveaway

2011-11-18T06:13:00.001-06:00

Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving? Wasn't it just here? Well, it is that time of year to think about all my blessings and everything I am thankful for. My list is very long and I am very thankful for many things. My family and friends are right at the top of the list. Also, my sewing is on the list, I am very thankful for such a fun and fulfilling hobby. I have always enjoyed sewing but thanks to the internet community, I really enjoy sewing. I have made incredible friendships thanks to these blogs. I get so many ideas from other blogs, Pattern Review, Pinterest, Cabi and Flickr to name a few. Also, thanks to the internet I have found great fabric online, new patterns to try and books to buy. My cup runneth over, not too mention my fabric shelves, pattern cabinets, notion drawers and bookshelves.

With all this thankfulness in mind, I would like to giveaway a book from my sewing bookshelf. I have enjoyed the book, the projects and the photography and want someone else to enjoy the book also.

How to enter:

Leave a comment on what you are thankful for - sewing, crafting, something or someone from the online community.

I will draw next Tuesday the 22nd and get it mailed on Wednesday.

Thanks

McCall's 6200

2011-11-15T15:56:00.001-06:00

Pattern Description: Loose fitting, straight, above mid-knee, pullover dresses A, B, C have front and back gathers, neckband and elbow length raglan sleeve variations; dress A has wide sleeves, contrast neckband and contrast belt; dresses B, C have gathered sleeves with self sleeveband; dress C has self belt.

Sizes: 8 to 16 and 18W to 24W

Instructions: Very easy to follow, great order to the instructions. Notice this dress is not gathered all around the neckline and sleeves, only the front and back neckline is gathered. I really like this feature, keeps it from looking too much like a peasant top/dress.

Fabric: Another great lycra/knit from the store with the $1.59 a yard treasures.

Changes: Only one, I used my coverstitch on the neckband at both the upper and lower edges.

I also cute a size smaller than usual, lots of ease in this pattern.

Conclusion: This is for Erin and I really want one, too. If this one wasn't a couple inches too short, not sure I would be giving it up. Also, note the neckline is wide on the pattern envelope and it is that way on the actual garment.

Stocking holders

2011-11-13T23:10:00.001-06:00

Using U Create's November Project for inspiration, Erin and I (and her dad) made her stocking holders for her new home.

We got a 2 x 6 scrap board, cut each four pieces 5-1/4" each. Mike used his router and made a groove for the frames.. The frames are 4 x 6 frames from Hobby Lobby (50% off) and with the routed groove, Erin can change what is in the frame. A little bit of paint on all the wooden surfaces, she has mostly turquoise and red ornaments for her tree.

The frames have scrapbooking paper background and initials cut out with my Silhouette. She bought hooks in our small town but they were the wrong color, so she painted them her trim paint color.

take a look

Stocking found at Hobby Lobby and yes one for their dog. I am going to embroidery their names on felt and then stitch it onto the stockings.

Her fiance's holder

Her holder

Aren't they cute? And very inexpensive to make. I might need new ones, I really like Shanty 2 Chic's holders with the clothespin. I am thinking a cute picture of the girls when they were little, dressed in their Christmas finest.

Butterick 5564

2011-11-13T15:03:00.001-06:00

Description: Close-fitting, pullover top A, tunic B, dress C have scooped neck with binding, drape sleeves with pleats, inset and stitched hems. A: hip length. B: below hip length. C: above mid-knee length

Sizes: 6 to 22

Likes/dislikes: The interesting sleeves, youthful look and the center back seam.

Instructions: The were pretty good, except for the insets, this part of the instruction left quite abit to be desired. You look at the sleeves on this top and it looks very breezy but then look again at the body of the garment and it is a pretty close fitting garment. One plus of this pattern is the insets, a front and back with sews into the bottom of the sleeve seam and the body sleeve. Great pattern piece, otherwisde not much coverage on the side seams with the big billowy sleeves. This part of the instructions has one illustration and the following "Pin right side of inset to armhole edge over wrong side of sleeve front and back. Stitch entire armhole edge."

here is the illustration:

The sleeves take quite a bit of time to pleat and sew to the garment. I did sew the binding a couple inches shorter to keep the neckline close to the body.

Fabric: A nice interlock found for $1.59 a yard.

Conclusion: Cute and fun, I do think Erin will need to where a cami or long-sleeve tshirt with this one the neckline is pretty low. If you are looking for something different try this fun pattern.

Very windy day so these big sleeves were hard to photograph

McCall's 6078

2011-11-10T22:18:00.001-06:00

As Gwen commented, I am sewing one for me, one for Erin. Well, it is my turn again and I used the last bit of the stripe knit and made this great draped top. The original review can be found here and the blog post here

My silly husband loves to just take tons of pictures until I take the camera away from him!

McCall's 6163

2011-11-09T09:04:00.001-06:00

Pattern Description: Close fitting, above mid-knee length knit dress with mock wrap front, gathered at left side with collar and raglan sleeves.

Sizing: 8 to 16 and 18W to 24W

Instructions: They are easy to follow, good beginner dress. I left off the collar and collar band, so I had to add some steps and change the order of my construction.

Changes: This dress is for...... yes, Erin, again. We found this pattern at Joann's while at the State Softball weekend. She liked the raglan sleeves, elastic in the sleeves for a ruched effect and the gathered wrap. She was not a fan of the collar, wanted to wear sweaters with the dress and thought the collar would get in the way.

So my changes:

Sewed the center back seam
Sewed the front and back sleeves together
Stitched 1/8" elastic to the sleeve seam to make the ruching.
Sewed sleeves to front and back
Measured pattern pieces at neck edge and cross over, subtracted seam allowances. This measurement is to for the self-fabric band around the front crossover and neck edge. My fabric is very stretchy, so I subtracted 6" from the measurment for the band. I wanted the band to fit tight and pull the crossover to the body.
I then marked quarters in the front band and the edge of the dress. I matched these points and now ready to serge the band to the dress. I placed the dress on the feed dogs of the serger. I like to be able to see the band and stretch it as I sew. Also, if it looks like I will have too much dress fabric, I can adjust the differential feed to pull up some of the dress fabric.
Gather up the right front, matched it to the left front.
Sew the underarm sleeve seam and side seam all in one.
Hem and done.

Fabric: Nice knit from Joann's, we really liked the print and colors of this one.

Conclusion: I will sew this cute dress again, for me next time. It is a quick, stylish dress with some nice sleeve variations.

Erin just bought a cute chunky sweater in the rusty-orange color and cute short brown boot, darling outfit.

I have asked her for pictures when she wears an outfit I made. Just have a co-worker take a picture with her smart phone. I don't know if she will do that, so we will see.

Vogue 8597

2011-11-07T06:26:00.001-06:00

A quick top for Erin from a fabric I recently purchased at a fabric warehouse while at state softball. A really nice knit for $1.59 a yard. I have enough left to make myself a top.

I have made this top before and here is the blog post and the review. I have a dress for her that needs to be hemmed. She is on a dress kick, right now with about 3 more patterns picked out to be sewn up.

Sandra Betzina

2011-11-04T17:19:00.000-05:00

I just have to say......

I heart Sandra Betzina, she is my sewing hero of many years. I fed my babies watching her show on HGTV, attended a workshop she held at Cy Rudnick's in Kansas City (she autographed my books, helped me pick out fabric), saw her at a Viking Husqvarna Convention and had the great pleasure to interview her for my podcast.

I have purchased her books, patterns, enjoyed her website, watched some videos and still need to check into her new series with Ron Collins. Whenever I need help with my sewing, her books are the first ones I pull off the shelf.

I wore this today

Vogue 1197- Sandra Betzina pattern

Also, I am on her email list, which I received in my inbox today, including her twice-yearly Fashion Forecast. I have spent much time throughout the years reading over the Fashion Forecasts, helping to plan out my sewing for the season.

At the end of today's Fashion Forecast I read this paragraph (copied from her newsletter)

While I continue to design patterns for Vogue and teach classes, this will conclude many years writing the twice yearly fashion forecasts. If we have your e-mail, we will let you know about the just realized Today’s Fit patterns and new WebTV show topics, filmed by Ron Collins and myself. We are in the process of updating our website once again.

Fondly,
Sandra Betzina

So to this I say, thank you, Sandra for all you do for the sewing community and for my sewing personally. I will miss your Fashion Forecasts but will eagerly await each pattern and book and I am heading now to check out the WebTV shows.

Signed your very appreciative sewing student,

New Look 6648

2011-11-01T22:22:00.001-05:00

Looks like I am making this pattern once a month. First in August, the second time in September and the third time in October (just posting in November). Fabric is from Fabric Mart, the band is the way the knit stretches but I didn't want the body of the top with the horizontal geometric print across my body. This top is oversized and I didn't need the stretch (which is limited on this knit), so I ran the geometric print vertically.

I wore this to work today but totally forgot to take a picture, so you get the dressform shot.

I am going to make this in November, this time for Erin in a bright pink knit.

McCall's 6282 again

2011-10-29T23:14:00.000-05:00

I am really into those draped necklines right now and made McCall's 6282 again. Click these links for the first blogpost and first pattern review

I used some fabric from Fabric Mart and cut out the dress length. I had it all constructed and was trying it on for hemming, looked in the mirror and it was just too overwhelming with all that print. Easy fix, cut it off for tunic length.

Here is the shorter (and better) version

Simplicity 2150

2011-10-25T06:19:00.001-05:00

Description: from Simplicity's site Misses' faux fur, fitted & loose cut jackets sewing pattern
Sizing: 6 to 22

Instructions: The were easy to follow. Simplicity has added some extra "Notes" throughout the instruction sheets to better explain some steps.

Fabric: A ponte from Fabric Mart (a special sale on this fabric about a month ago).

Likes/Dislikes: I liked the drape of the collar on view B, thought it made the jacket take on a sweater feel. The look of the lines and fit of the jacket on the pattern envelope and line drawing. Dislikes: my fabric doesn't drape like the collar on the pattern envelope. I really have to fiddle with the collar and front to get it to look that way.

Changes: Only added length to the sleeves. Changes I wish I had made: make the sleeves narrower, this is an outerwear pattern so the sleeves have more ease. I followed the ease measurements printed on the pattern piece, but I feel the garment has more ease than indicated. If I make this again, I will go down a size.

Conclusion: After seeing the picture of the jacket on me, I was ready to give it away. I was telling Meredith this and she said, "oh, Mom, it isn't that bad, keept it and it will be fine." So I am keeping it and will try it a couple more times. I don't think I will wear it as in my picture, just came home from work and put it on for a quick picture.

Also, looks too big in the shoulders.

State Champs

2011-10-22T19:31:00.001-05:00

The gilrs did it, they are state champs. Pictures later

Kaitlyn with state medal

Meredith with medal

They also got a great trophy for the school and will get state champion rings, a huge team picture for the school and a banner for the basketball gym.

On a sewing note, I bought tons of fabric. Went to Joann's, Hancock's and a fabric outlet - there I scored about 16 yards of fashion knit for $32 total!

Now that all the excitement is over for awhile at our house, I will get back to sewing. First a mountain of laundry and wash up all those new knits.

Thanks for all your kind support and comments, it is so appreciated.

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State Championship Game Today

2011-10-22T07:39:00.001-05:00

Meredith

Kaitlyn

THEY DID IT, great game 8 to 1! Game time, 4pm, playing this one in a big college stadium.

Semi-finals

2011-10-21T08:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a big send-off for the team to head down to the Fianl 4:

Meredith with balloons to launch

Kaitlyn eating lunch before the girls left

Special cookies

For each player

Today is the semi-final game, so exciting and a time in their life they will always remember. Just think about the class reunions years down the road, the stories they will tell.

Me? Thrilled beyound belief, so excited and getting to share this with family and friends. Heading to Joann's and a quilt shop sometime today!

Numbers Table

2011-10-19T21:55:00.002-05:00

Erin wanted a small table for her classroom, something for papers/homework. A good friend found a child's table for $10 and had her husband go back to the antique store to buy it. Thanks, Tricia!

Erin asked me to paint it a bright blue (it was red top with white legs) and that is all she wanted. Well, I couldn't stop at paint only. After seeing this sign from Tater Tots and Jello's weekend wrap up party, I had my inspiration. Out came my Silhouette machine and Erin's favorite color, orange for the vinyl. Here is her new table, perfect for a math teacher.

I used every bit of the orange vinyl, I was lucky to get all the numbers I needed!

Hamburger, anyone?

2011-10-19T02:30:00.000-05:00

What do you get when you use this tutorial and combine a cupcake, icing and a brownie?

A Hamburger that's what! Isn't it the cutest? Meredith is using this for her demonstative speech for class. I know her fellow students will enjoy the speech, they get to eat the cupcakes!

Without the top bun, showing the ketchup, mustard and lettuce

Yummy, hamburger

Crooked bun when Mom tries to move the creation for a better photo.

Vogue 1250

2011-10-18T06:22:00.001-05:00

I made this again from a Missoni looking fabric from Fabric Mart and the only change was adding sleeves. I used Debbie's blog post on her alterations. I love the sleeves on this dress and it makes the pattern a year-long go-to pattern.

Recently, I have been working my part-time job and substituting 2-3 days a week. With this in mind, I added a cami under the Vogue dress, too much bending over students' desks!

The oh, my gosh, what do I do with my hands pose!

Final Four Softball

2011-10-16T10:31:00.001-05:00

The girls won another one 11-0 last night, beautiful night and for the first time in school history we are heading to the final four.

Here are some pictures from the evening (from the over 200 I took)

Kaitlyn before game I really like this picture of her, so happy and relaxed

Kaitlyn before first at bat

Meredith before first at bat

The semifinal game is on Friday!

Simplicity 2154

2011-10-13T20:05:00.001-05:00

Okay, this doesn't look like my usual pattern, does it?

Well, I purchased it after seeing it in the Joann's Fashion Fusion Magazine

The cardigan is made from Ponte Roma from Joann's.

Description: Misses' & Miss petite 1960â€™s retro style blouse, skirt, jacket and knit cardigan sewing pattern. Simplicity Vintage Pattern Collection.

Sizing: 6 to 24

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? :
Not really, I used more modern fabric and my garment does not look vintage at all.

Instructions: They were easy to follow, the cardigan is basic construction, Simplicity's instructions were concise and to the point with nice illustrations to provide extra guidance.

Likes/Dislikes: As I mentioned I liked the look of the cardigan in Joann's Fashion Fusion magazine (Fall/winter 2011). Actually, I was quite shocked when I pulled the vintage inspired pattern out of the pattern drawers. I also liked the lines of the cardigan

Fabric: A sweater knit from Fabric Mart, I bought the last 1-1/4 yard and was just able to squeeze this cardigan out.

Changes: The pattern recommends 1" ribbon to finish the front edge of the cardigan. I measured the cardigan front by the pattern piece, cut the ribbon 1" longer to allow for the foldover at the top. Then I divided the ribbon in half and matched it to the front half mark. I put the sweater knit down on my serger plate and adjusted the differential feed to pull in more of the sweater knit. My sweater knit had stretched some with handling. This allowed for the fronts to match in length and my stripes to match.

I did not make buttonholes in my cardigan. With the scalloped design of the fabric, I thought the buttonholes would not sew out the best. Also, I do not plan on ever buttoning this cardigan. I did sew on buttons for effect.

One change I will do in the future is to use wider ribbon, I could only find 7/8" ribbon and after allowing for the serger allowance, I had about 1/2" of front band. So keep this in mind when purchasing ribbon.

Conclusion: A bit of a sleeper of a pattern but so happy I purchased it. The fabric really makes the cardigan really special. I have some black ponte, so another one will probably be in the future. I will get better pictures in the morning, this is what I am wearing to work tomorrow.

Cardigan with Jalie tie top.

Better view of the scallops, stripes and color of the fabric.

Another W

2011-10-12T21:22:00.002-05:00

It is a Mom's time to brag - another win for softball, we are down to the top 8 in the state, play again on Saturday. YEA!! GO TEAM!!

District Champs

2011-10-10T18:44:00.000-05:00

They did it, the twin's high school team won districts 3-0, leaving 16 teams in each class (size of school). They play for Sectionals next.
Here is a bit of animation a friend created for me (thanks friend). You have to click on the picture to get the animation to work.

Pillow Swap Talk 6

2011-10-09T12:39:00.001-05:00

This will be my third swap for the quilted pillows, something I found through a blog and it is hosted on Flickr. You are sent a partner with some information and each person in the group makes a mosiac of pillows/quilts/colors they like. You can take a look the others I made - Swap 5 pillow and Swap 4 pillow

Here is my quilted creation for my partner

Front of the pillow

Back, I have added 3 fuschia snaps to hold the envelope back together.

Softball

2011-10-07T21:21:00.001-05:00

If you have noticed my posts have been pretty infrequent, well, it is softball season. For us that means 26 games in about 6 weeks, so it is very busy. It has been a great season so far, the girls won the conference last week (only 2nd time in school history), set a record for most wins in a season (23-2-1) and are playing for district championship tomorrow morning. That game will be the toughest of the season, so fingers crossed.

My girls have started all season, Kaitlyn in left field and Meredith at second. They have this high five/low five they do when they take the field for defense each inning and finally last night I took some pictures of this:

oops, sorry Meredith cut off your head.

So here is to great bats and good defense and a win.

Vogue 8747

2011-10-05T22:35:00.001-05:00

Description: Misses' shirt, fitted with A, B, C, D cup sizes

Sizes: 6 to 20

Instructions: Were very good and easy to follow on this Vogue pattern. Also, quite a bit of information on the custom fit for the cup sizes. How to measure and achieve a good fit.

Likes/Dislikes: I liked the look of the gathered front, something I had seen in RTW blouses. Another like is the front neckline, how it gives a hint of a v-neck in a blouse and doesn't button up to the collar band.

A big like is the cup sizing.

Changes: Add length to the blouse and the sleeves.

Fabric: Cotton shirting from Wal-Mart, pretty decent and not alot of money involved for the first time making the blouse.

Conclusion: A great blouse pattern for your sewing needs. I made a C cup on this blouse even though I measured a B cup per Vogue's instructions. I just didn't want the blouse to be tight and the description is fitted. The bust is a bit big, I should have followed the instructions! Do be careful fitting the bottom of the blouse, it is a slimmer fit. I let out a bit at the hips for a better fit.

Ponte Trench in Action

2011-10-02T12:39:00.000-05:00

As most of you know I made McCall's 5525 from ponte, details found here

Friday night, big class reunion time (numbers won't be mentioned) and I was debating on the trench or motorcycle jacket with my white blouse and trouser jeans. I asked a good friend which jacket and she said motorcycle, a bit more casual. This was a good choice for the night, the dress was more casual. I did grab the camera and set the timer for several consecutive shots. Here is the ponte trench in action:

The white blouse is Butterick 5526, blogpost here.

Off to work on a Vogue blouse, not much time to sew this week. I have managed about 20 minutes each morning, so the blouse is down to cuffs and buttonholes.

Winner of the My Memories Software

2011-10-01T14:16:00.003-05:00

There were 7 comments but 2 comments by one person so I used 6 to generate a number at random.org

The winner is......................

Congrats, Maxine email me so I can get you the information.

McCall's 5525 - Ponte Knit

2011-09-25T12:32:00.001-05:00

The McCall's Trench Coat

Which I have made twice before. Most recently in a gorgeous teal, see review here and blog post here then I made it back in March 2008, see review here and blog post here.

My latest version is for me. Lynne and I talk about Cabi Canary quite a bit and she was so excited about the entire Ponte collection. I liked many of the items and had purchased 3 yards of gray ponte from Fabricmart a couple of weeks ago. My intention was for a cardigan and a simple skirt, well plans change. Lynne is going to make the trench coat and said she was looking at this McCall's pattern for her version. Her enthusiasm was contagious and I fell on the Ponte Trench Coat bandwagon.

Cabi Canary

I have been reading several fashion magazines and looking online for inspiration and this trench coat look instead of a jacket is seen many places.

Ann Taylor Loft

So the information. I made a size 10, a size smaller than my normal jacket size. I ended up taking the jacket in more on the side seams, shoulder seams, underarms and top of sleeves. I kept trying on this jacket and heading to the mirror to see what I needed to do for fitting. I wanted this jacket on the slimmer side, as it looked in the Cabi picture

My advice would be if using a Ponte knit, go down a size. I did not line this jacket due to the many size adjustments I made after some of the construction was complete. I felt I could not even come close to getting the lining to be the correct size, so I used some black knit and finished the facings

Here is the ponte on my dressform

Here on me

I will style it quite differently - just came home and put on the Ponte trench for pictures.

I do think this is a piece I will wear quite a bit and will be a nice addition to my closet.

Thanks Lynne, can't wait to see yours.

Flashback Friday

2011-09-23T13:31:00.001-05:00

Paige Preschool Program 1992

A cute romper/jumpsuit garment for Paige made from quilting cotton.

I don't have the original pattern or a pattern suggestion (not too stylish now). I do know this is one of the things she would say, "Mom, why did you dress me like that!"

New Look 6628 Again

2011-09-19T16:26:00.001-05:00

I made this the first time in August and just finished it for the second time. This one for Erin in a jersey knit from Fashion Fabrics Club

Used the fabric on bias for the binding

I should of made the bottom piece a bit wider, since jersey doesn't stretch much. It will be a bit harder to get on but doable!

My Memories Software

2011-09-14T21:50:00.000-05:00

I was contacted by My Memories Digital Software to try out their software. The digital scrapbooking software helps you create scrapbooks, cards, calendars and other items. A week ago, I downloaded the scrapbook software and started to work on a couple of projects.

I created a scrapbook page about my recent visit with Lynne of Wonderfully Made and I used a bit of her post from our meeting on the page and a picture of her front porch.

Great ric-rac trim detail included in the scrapbooking software

For a second project with My Memories Suite I made a Halloween inspired project

I really enjoyed working with this digital software package, it includes many layouts, trims and fonts and more. It is easy to use and there are several videos and tutorials on My Memories Blog

My Memories Suite has offered a great special for the readers of this blog. Use this code

STMMMS17670

for a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!)

Now for a really good part they are going to give one lucky reader of my blog the My Memories Suite software. To be entered for this drawing head over to My Memories site and take a look around. Leave a comment on this blogpost and tell your favorite digital paper pack or layout or tell how you might use this software if you were the lucky winner.

I will draw a winner on September 28th, good luck.

McCall's 5477

2011-09-12T22:42:00.001-05:00

Pattern Description: Semi-fitted lined jacket, hip length has notched or shawl collar, princess seams, bias side front and side back panels, shoulder pads and centre back vent.

Sizing: 8 to 20

Likes/dislikes: I liked this pattern the first time I saw it and purchased it right away. It is OOP now but I am happy finally to have made it. I think the plaid version would be so fun to make.

I like the fitted jacket style, the bit of peplum look without the fullness. Interesting collar and sleeve variations are more likes. The only dislike is it takes quite a bit of fabric 2-3/4 yards and it does take some time to construct. The time is worth it though.

Fabric: A Vera stretch sateen from fabric.com I had to be very creative as I only had 2 yards of fabric. This meant 3/4 sleeve and the front facing is pieced but it doesn't show from the right side.

Changes: Only changes were due to my fabric shortage. The rest of the construction is followed per the instructions.

Instructions: Were very clear and concise. I really like the dart in the front and front facing, makes a natural roll line. The instructions were also clear on all the pressing direction and the lining construction. Also, the front facing (which extends to side seams) and back hem facing are a nice addition to the lining process and add some structure to the garment and the gathered areas.

you can see the dart here

Conclusion: Another winner in the jacket sewing. Again this jacket was made for Erin and she loved it.
We both really like the silver buttons on the jacket and the back tab adds great interest.

I cannot get my dressform to fill out the shoulder area in these jackets. It just isn't broad enough.

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Erin wants one more sewn item (at least for the time being) a knit shirt from a New Look pattern. I do have time to sew for her as my dryer is broken again (second time in a month), this means I haven't been able to prewash any of the fabric from that big box!

One more note - check out the anniversary winners - two people have not claimed their prizes. The other three were mailed on Friday.

Never Forget

2011-09-11T10:17:00.000-05:00

God Bless the USA

New Fabric

2011-09-07T22:40:00.001-05:00

I had received an email from Fabric Mart about their pyramid of savings, then Carolyn posted about the sale and I couldn't resist any longer. I filled my cart with many pieces, went over my budget, so eliminated a few. The savings really made a difference and I bought some pieces I had been wanting for quite some time. Today after a very long day at work, I arrived home to a nice box on my porch.

Here is my fabric goodness:

tops, dresses, jackets, cardigans, shirts, sweaters are my plans. I was thrilled with every piece.

Fall sewing here I come, after a couple more things for Erin.

September is National Sewing Month

2011-09-06T13:46:00.002-05:00

I received an email from Reed at Overstock.com or o.com and he complimented me on my blog and projects (thanks, Reed). Reed wanted to share with me a graphic from Overstock's blog and ask if I would put it on my blog.

Here it is - some interesting facts:

Here is a link to the blogpost

Please note: I am not affilidated with Overstock, they contacted me to provide this information.

So do you have any plans in celebrating National Sewing Month (other than sewing)?

Simplicity 2313- third time

2011-09-05T17:30:00.004-05:00

I have made this jacket for me with the zipper and for Erin with the buttons, and now I made it one more time for Erin. It is the same view A, with some changes. I used the sleeves from Simplicity 2256.

I thought these were more of the style I wanted for her jacket. I compared the two pattern pieces and the caps were the same but the sleeves on 2313 are fuller. She will be wearing this in the classroom over a top or dress, so I thought she might want a slimmer sleeve.

One other change was to eliminate the gathered collar. I just cut 2 pieces from the under collar pattern piece. The fabric is a Vera stretch sateen from fabric.com. This one seemed a bit thicker than the white I used in her McCall's jacket.

a few wrinkles on the right side (looking at it) I think from the dressform.

I am not through with jackets for her, going to work on another one from red Vera stretch sateen, going to try and squeeze it out of my yardage. It might become 3/4 sleeve.

Winner of Anniversary Giveway

2011-09-04T18:16:00.001-05:00

First the winner of the purse:

MySummerTouch said...

Congratulations with 5 year anniversary! My fav garment is the first EVER dress that I made for my daughter, it was New Look pattern. Instrucuctions were clear until the insurtion of a zipper. I didn't understand them and put the dress of for 1,5 years. i took a sewing cource and only then finished the dress. The good thing is that I took a larger size and it still fits her! She wears it now!

Winner of the 5 x 7 cards:

Ann's Fashion Studio said...

Congratulations on five years! :)))

I've recently started listening to your podcasts ~ I know a little late ~ but I am enjoying them so much. It's great to finally meet/hear bloggers that I have been following, and then be introduced to new people/bloggers and products. You put a lot of effort into your podcasts and it truly shows, they are very enjoyable and informative.

Thank You!

Winner of the cards with wooden dressform on first card:

Jo said...

Congratulations! Your blog has been such an inspiration as I begin my sewing adventure. I appreciate all of your information and find myself checking your blog daily :)

Winner of the cards with the pattern envelope on first card:

vernonfashionstudio said...

Congratulations. You have been an inspiration to us all. Your energy is amazing.
Linda T

Winner of the book:

gMarie said...

Hi Lori, I love the garments you make. They always inspire me to dig out a pattern and get sewing - but really, I love, love your house makeover projects. Your designing is amazing! g

Thank you all for the wonderful and thoughtful comments.

Winners please email me with your mailing address.

Flashback Friday

2011-09-02T06:28:00.000-05:00

This is Erin in March 1991, simple romper with elastic cuffs, made from a cotton. I made this pattern many, many times for Erin and the twins. I don't have the original pattern, which disappoints me but I think it was truly worn out.

Here is a subsitute:

New Look 6986

Kwik Sew 3776 for the short romper version

McCall's 4644

Don't forget to enter the anniversary contest, one more day is left until I draw for the prizes.

Simplicity 2728

2011-08-29T14:00:00.001-05:00

Descriptiion: Misses fitted jackets with collar, sleeve and pocket variations. Jacket is fully lined. Part of Simplicity's Project Runway line.

Sizes: 4 to 22

Instructions: They were very easy to follow and so many helpful and useful sewing tips throughout. The instructions tell you how to make a sleeve head with excellent illustrations to follow. Also, all the design elements are clearly marked with "Designer's Addition" so you are able to identify which elements you want for your jacket. I think this pattern is one of the better ones for sewing steps and including important elements to achieve a very professional finished garment.

I did find it hard to ease the sleeves into the jacket, I think that is the fabric, the lining did not prove to be as difficult.

Likes/Dislikes: This jacket is for Erin and she wanted a short sleeve jacket in an off-white fabric. The fabric was easy and I went through my pattern stash to find an appropriate pattern. When I saw this one, I knew it was perfect. The style, the fit and cut and the sleeve elements were perfect for her.

I also liked the collar options, the darts for fitting and the pocket options.

Fabric: A linen from Joann's

Changes: I omitted the back button tab, didn't have enough buttons for that. One other change, that happened during construction, I was pressing the jacket after attaching the lining and noticed you could see the lining through the back of the jacket. The front was fine, Simplicity has you interface the entire front piece. I thought oh, no, then turned the jacket right side out, cut interfacing for the back, elimating facings and seams. Fused this into place and the problem was solved (big sigh of relief).

Conclusion: A beautiful jacket with great structure and design. I really like how it looks on the dressform and it will look so much better on Erin.

*******************************************************************************

I told Erin I need pictures of her in these garments, we will see. She did wear this top on date night with her fiance and he told me it looked really good. Then she wore this dress to school last week and received many compliments. One young teacher told her please tell me when your mom wants to take orders.

What I Wore to Dinner

2011-08-28T20:22:00.000-05:00

Here is what I wore out to dinner with my hubby.

a closer view of outfit (and Kaitlyn picked out the outfit)

McCall's 6038 skirt - review here blogpost here

Top is Simplicity 2892

sweater recent purchase from New York and Company

Don't forget to enter the anniversary giveaway on this post

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Now to ask if anyone purchased Stretch Vera Cotton Sateen Dark Red from fabric.com? I started cutting it out a jacket for Erin and didn't plan very well and now I am short on fabric and they are out of that color. I would need a yard. Here is a link to a different color.

Thanks.

Flashback Fridays

2011-08-25T22:21:00.003-05:00

Here is Paige in the spring of 1992, this fabric came from So-Fro chains of long ago.

Then here is the same outfit with the pants made into shorts for Erin. This is for her first day of preschool in 1994

I do not have the pattern anymore but a comparable pattern:

McCall's 4756

Cabinet Before and After

2011-08-25T13:41:00.002-05:00

It all started with this $10 cabinet (shelf) piece of furniture:

Meredith wanted a piece of furniture with shelves to show off the quilts she made. This was perfect and the price was even better plus the piece was nice and solid.

She picked out some paint to go with her room. You can see the whole redo here.
The cabinet after with 4 different knobs, Meredith liked the eclectic feel of the knobs (Hobby Lobby) to go with all the different fabrics of the quilts.

Really shows off her quilts and she has another shelf for more

Adding this to:

Miss Mustard Seed's Friday Furniture feature

and on

Tatertots and Jellos

Five Years - Anniversary Giveway

2011-08-25T01:05:00.002-05:00

On this day, five years ago, Girls in the Garden was born with this post This blogging experience has brought so much into my life. Friendship with people all over the world, some of whom I have had the pleasure of meeting. Thanks to all the blogs I follow and tutorials posted on these blogs, my sewing ability has developed. I have posted garments, cards, gifts, purses, decorating projects and scrapbooking on this blog through the years.

I owe all of you a big THANK YOU for commenting on my blog, encouraging me, emailing me and sharing different family events through these five years.

Now I want to thank you for all of this. Five years means five gifts.

1. A tote bag

2. Set of 7 cards 5 x7 cards

3. set of 7 cards 4.25 x 5.5

4. Set of 7 cards 4.25 x 5.5

5. Style Yourself book

Now the details

Leave a comment maybe about your favorite garment, redo, card, garden, etc
I will draw on September 3rd (let the giveway run for a week)
I will draw the winners in order of the prizes listed above (so if you are first name drawn you win the purse)
Then I will post the winners on the blog and you can email me your mailing details.

Thanks again

McCall's 6329

2011-08-20T23:39:00.000-05:00

Description: Misses'Women's Lined jackets: Close-fitting with snap closure. A: Tie can be tied in front or back. B: Side front seam pockets. (I made view A).

Sizes: 8 to 16 and 18W to 24W. I made a 14 through the shoulders and a 12 in the rest of the garment.

Instructions: Very easy to follow, this is a Palmer and Pletsch pattern. If you have their book on fitting and are a bit confused, buy this pattern. All the adjustment lines are printed on the pattern tissue and a pattern sheet just for these adjustments. All of this was like an "ah-ha" moment for me, all the information in their book made total sense. Just visualizing the lines and areas to adjust for each fitting area, made total sense to me. The instructions are thorough with helpful sewing hints.

Likes/Dislikes: The style and ease of construction. This is another garment for Erin, something to layer with ruffled tanks and dresses. I thought she would like the simplicity of the jacket, the belt and the abitlity to tie the belt in the front or back depending on the style she wanted to create. My dislike is the pattern envelope, not a flattering look in any views.

Changes: Shortened the 3/4 sleeve by 1" and omitted the lining. I did not have any lining in my stash and I knew a white jacket wouldn't last very long with my daughter. This in mind, I didn't want to take the time to line something that might only make it this year.

Fabric: A stretch twill from fabric.com.

Conclusion: I want to see this jacket on Erin to see if I will make it again. She said it was great when I delivered the jacket to her today.I do know the pattern is worth having just for the Palmer and Pletsch instructions.

Flashback Fridays

2011-08-19T14:19:00.001-05:00

I thought I would start a new feature on my blog and since Sharon had such a catchy title, I emailed asking if I could use it. Sharon graciously said yes.

My thoughts were to go back through my scrapbooks and get pictures of the girls in outfits I made. Some of the earlier ones I will not have pattern numbers. I did not save all the patterns from their childhood, now I wish I did but live and learn.

I really didn't sew alot for the older two until they were a bit older, I was a quilter at the time. If I did sew for them, I didn't necessarily take pictures of the garments. Speaking of pictures, I wasn't much of a photographer at times.

Today I start Flashback Friday with a couple of Paige.

The first was a cute blue and white cotton fabric.
Similar to this pattern

Butterick 5625

This picture was taken for the beads, Paige would not leave the house unless she put on her three strands of beads. She looked so cute as we grocery shopped!

Halloween costumes I have always sewn and in this picture Paige is her interpretation of Snow White.

Isn't she the cutest?!?

So every Friday, I plan on scanning pictures, finding the patterns envelopes (or something close) and walk through memory lane. I promise my photographs get better.

Sewing Cards

2011-08-19T00:22:00.001-05:00

The last couple of days I have felt like making cards instead of sewing. It is just fun to play with the paper, inks, stamps, etc.

Three of my cards have a sewing theme and turned out pretty cute.

Then some of the rest:

I used my silhouette for several of the cards and a great new magazine for inspiration. These are only part of the 25 cards I have made the last couple of days.

The magazine is Card Ideas for Paper Crafters:

and here is a link to purchase the magazine

School Days with Juniors

2011-08-18T14:58:00.000-05:00

School started today and my girls are thrilled, they are Juniors, big upperclassmen. Me? Mixed emotions, happy because they are so happy, sad because next summer we will be looking at colleges. Junior year please go slowly, are you listening? Slow motion is my hope but I realize that is a dream!

Here they are

Meredith and Kaitlyn

Meredith hauling all kinds of stuff to school including her cello. Looks like she is moving

Kaitlyn has a lighter load, no orchestra this year for her. Yes, her hair is darker, Erin dyed it for her and Katlyn loves it.

Now let me rephrase te part about being excited for school. They are excited to be juniors and see their friends but here is their true feelings about school starting:

I noticed this when I came home from work, Too funny, they must of changed our chalkboard this morning!

Tonight is the softball scrimmage, so I have a couple of hours to sew or clean house. I think I will pick sew!

Simplicity 2369 - for a second time

2011-08-16T00:19:00.000-05:00

I made this for myself back in May 2010, here is the blogpost and here is the review.

I bought this cute striped fabric (rayon jersey stripe no longer available) from fabric.com back in April. I knew it was a great fabric for Erin, nice weight and great colors (she loves orange). It sat on the shelf while I found the right pattern and had some time to make it.

I sent her a picture of the pattern and fabric and she said, yes, I really like. That was all I needed, I cut it out on Saturday and stitched it up today. It took a bit of time to cut it out, lots of stripes to match.

Here it is:

side seam matching

sleeve to front matching

I really wanted the smaller stripes at the waist but I did not have enough fabric for that. I do like how it turned out.

Erin officially started her teaching career this week, teacher meetings on Monday and Tuesday with the first day of school on Wednesday. Good luck to her, I know she will do an amazing job.

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I want to say a big Thank You for all the wonderful comments of late. I wasn't sure about the red dress, way outside my comfort zone and all of you left such nice comments. When I wear it, I will think of all my amazing sewing/blogging friends. Thank you.

Vogue 1250

2011-08-15T10:02:00.001-05:00

Description: Easy to sew, close fitting dress with drape.

Sizes: 6 to 20

Likes/Dislikes: I liked the look of this dress, it has 37 reviews on pattern review. This being said, there are many versions, styled in many ways and all of them look fantastic. Needing some new dresses for my wardrobe, I thought I would give this pattern a try.

Fabric: A red cotton-lycra knit in my stash, happy to find a purpose for it. The fabric might be a bit too clingy of a choice but with a cardigan, it will be fine.

Changes: I added some length but then ended up cutting off that additional length. I figured better safe than sorry.

Conclusion: Need a dress fast? This is your go-to pattern. It is quick to cut out, quick to sew and it looks great.

I will probably wear it with this cardigan quite a bit.

Meredith was being a very creative photographer here!

New Look 6030

2011-08-14T09:07:00.000-05:00

Description: Misses' skirt with pocket, trim and length options. Back lapped zipper and fabric tie pattern.

Sizing: 4 to 16. I made the size 12 to start (according to the finished measurements). I took in the side seams a couple of times before adding the waistband. It fits a bit loose right now and with wear I think will stretch out. I plan on going down a size in the future, so double check the measurements if you make this garment.

Instructions: Very good with nice detailed instructions for the lapped zipper

Likes/Dislikes: I had been looking for a straighter cut skirt for summer. I found this one in the New Look catalog and it was just what I wanted.

Changes: Added 3" to the longer length version. I wanted a deep hem with a double row of topstitching, The 3 inches allowed for the skirt to be 1" longer and a 2" hem. Also, the front pockets were finished with binding. I just cut pockets from some lightweight quilting fabric and lined the pockets.

The topstitching was a big change. I used white buttonhole twist and stitched a double row of topstitching on the pockets, center front and belt loops. On the waistband I only used one row of stitcing.

I don't really own any scarves, so I used the pattern piece in the pattern for the belt and made one from a scrap of fabric.

Fabric: A lightweigth denim from Gorgeous Fabrics.

Conclusion: A very cute skirt with great details, I will get lots of wear from this. I plan on making this skirt again.

My photographer was very cooperative, so I have several pictures to share.

Pie Safe - Before and After

2011-08-12T12:51:00.003-05:00

Years ago, my wonderful aunt gave hubby and I this pie safe and it was in such ~~beautiful~~ needy condition.

First, we had to have it put back together (there was no back) and then I stripped it and punched the tin.This is what it has looked like for 20 years.

Perfectly fine and very pretty but I was ready for a change. After seeing all this wonderful painted furniture on several blogs and my family room is full of wood pieces, I thought a turquoise would brighten up the room. It did just that.

I used True Value paint 26A26 (Adrift), which I found was one of the featured paints in the latest Better Homes and Gardens.

I am sharing on Miss Mustartd Seed's Friday Favorites

and Tater tots and jello

Butterick 5495 - dress

2011-08-10T15:58:00.001-05:00

Updated - modeled picture

a little closer to get the details

I made this pattern as a top back in June, you can see full blog post here

From this pattern, I thought a LBD would be perfect and I do not own a LBD, I know behind the times/trend.

I purchased some ITY jersey from Needle Nook fabric and added 7" to the pattern (allowing a 1" hem). My only other change was to make the band in the front 1" longer. I felt like it was pulling the back of my dress a bit too tight.

Here is the dress with some different options:

Then I went to my closet and added some jackets/sweaters

I am quite pleased with my LBD, now I need to buy some spanx!

Burda Top

2011-08-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Picture isn't the best, today was a foggy morning and I should have focused a bit more before setting self-timer. It will give you an idea of the top on me.

This is the Burda top from the previous post.

Burda Magazine 2-2009 #118

2011-08-06T11:05:00.000-05:00

Pattern Description:

Figure hugging top in jersey with off-shoulder puffed sleeves"

Pattern Sizing:

34-42

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes, I do believe a solid fabric shows the details better but I do like my top

Were the instructions easy to follow?

I had to read the sleeve steps a couple of times to understand totally the construction process. Alot of the construction is carefully marking your pattern pieces, enabling you to match the corresponding pieces. Make sure you mark the bottom of the sleeve and inside sleeve piece, this helps tremendously.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

It is a fun knit shirt pattern, on my to-do list for quite some time.

Fabric Used:

A cotton-lycra knit from Needle Nook Fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

Added to length

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I might sew it again in a solid fabric, would be cute

Conclusion:

Fun knit shirt, the sleeves and yoke make it unique.

New Look 6648

2011-08-04T18:01:00.000-05:00

Pattern Description:

Knit tops 4 different looks

Pattern Sizing:

6 to 16

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

For the most part, I used a solid color for the gathered band

Were the instructions easy to follow?

This pattern has 4 pieces, neckband, front, back and lower band, so it is very easy to follow the instructions

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I liked the style of the top, dressy casual, plus I liked several of the versions here on PR.

Fabric Used:

ITY knit from fabric.com and the black is from Needle Nook fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I added a bit of length and for the elastic gathered sleeves, I just stitched 1/8" elastic in the seam allowance.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I thnk I will make it again, view C is calling my name.

Conclusion:

Fast and fun top with great results. I have a new top for the fall

Our Vacation

2011-07-31T22:38:00.001-05:00

Our vacation was to Niagra Falls area and you talk about a beautiful area.

We enjoyed the falls:

American Falls

Canadian Falls

Our family at the falls

We also visited the Niagra Botanical Gardens, this was so amazing.

me in the garden

Mike and I in front of Niagra River

Meredith popping into the picture

Then we went to Fort Niagra that is around Lewiston, NY

Add lots of sightseeing around Niagra-on-the-Lake, watching ships go through the Welland Canal and taking a boat ride down the Erie Canal.

We finished our trip at Gettysburg, PA and toured the Battle of Gettysburg grounds

This is at the Soldier's Cementary, Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

Just a wonderful trip with seeing part of this country I had never seen before and visiting Canada for the first time.

Meeting Friends

2011-07-30T18:25:00.001-05:00

Hubby, the twins and myself have been on vacation, a wonderful vacation. I will share pictures tomorrow but today I want to talk about meeting friends. Lynne and I have become great sewing internet friends. Leaving comments on each other blogs, emailing about RTWgarments (Cabi mostly) and how we can recreate, sharing highs and lows in our lifes and just becoming great friends with alot in common.

Last Wednesday was a wonderful highlight to the vacation as my family went to Lynne's house for dinner. My family said are you sure this is the house? I said, "yes, they have been painting it and this is the exact house from a picture from her blog!" My family was amazed, I think.

From the moment, I walked onto Lynne's porch it was pure joy and fun for the entire evening. We chatted, I toured her beautiful home (and sewing room), sat in her garden and talked sewing and had the best meal of the trip. Toward the end of the evening, we took pictures and laughed and giggled. .

A good laugh shared by friends.

Thank you so much, Lynn and JR.

Patience

2011-07-21T20:55:00.000-05:00

Is not what my Kaitlyn has (at least for modeling the skirt I made her). I used the same tutorial from my eyelet skirt. I did put elastic through the entire waistband on this skirt. The waistband I cut 8" larger than their waist measurement, this allowed room to pull the skirt over the hips.

I was allowed one picture, so the quality isn't the best and she left her athletic shorts on, just pulling the skirt over them!

then Mom really pushed her patience and had her model Meredith's skirt!

this is the same fabric leftover from my skirt, Meredith chose the shinier side.

Quickest picture session ever.

New Quilt - Make Life Sweet Fabric

2011-07-20T18:35:00.000-05:00

I made this quilt a few months ago, finally sent it to the longarm quilter and just finished sewing on the binding.
All the fabric but the cream with dots is Make Life by Sweetwater

I made some blocks from a tutorial online and then got tired of making them all the same so I just started making my own blocks.

Sew Serendipity Multi Fabric Skirt

2011-07-18T06:47:00.000-05:00

Have you seen or purchased this book?

I had a copy of the book, gave it away on the podcast, then got another book (Thank you, Kay).
After seeing, Lynne's darling version, I had to make one for myself!

Description: The multi-fabric skirt uses a combindation of five coordinating fabric prints. Pocket with ruffle details, piping or rick-rack or ruffle option in front seams, ruffle at hem, faced waistband and invisible zipper.

Sizing : XXS to XXL with size chart provided. Full size tissue pattern pieces are included in an envelope in the back of the book. I cut out a medium but took some in on the side seams. Next time I will cut out between the small and medium.

Instructions: They are very easy to follow. Kay Whitt has the book organized into chapters for each garment type. Chapter one is skirts and at the beginning of the chapter is instructions and illustrations for the basic skirt. In the skirt chapter, there are six different skirt variations, each one having specific instructions and illustrations for that type.

I like how Kay Whitt has you add so much detail with edge and topstitching. It really finishes the garment. You can see all her construction details at this tutorial available on her blog. It details the ruffled skirt on page 58 of the book and adds pockets. Several steps are the same on all the skirt, making this a perfect tutorial for your skirt sewing.

Also, Kay illustrates in the book how to press the ruffles on the garments. She states pressing the ruffles flat makes a closer fit to the body for a complimentary appearance (page 21)

The book includes, dresses, tunics and jackets.

Likes/dislikes: The fit is the first very big like. The skirt fits perfectly and as Lynne pointed out, several seams to help adjust the fit. I also, like the style and shape. I am drawn to the color and texture of quilting cottons and this is a fun way to use those cottons. The illustrations, photography and instructions in the book are superb.

Fabric: cottons from Joel Dewbery and Oliver & S. (moda)

Changes: I added another pocket and used a smaller ruffle for the bottom ruffle piece. With the design and all the skirt variations in her book, you can really change the look of the skirt each time you make it.

Conclusion: I really like my new summer skirt, it is just plain fun. The fit is perfect and I will be using the pattern for all types of fabric. Her tips and hints throughout the book are very helpful and aid in such a successful garment.

To go along with this post:

I just interviewed Kay Whitt for the podcast, Episode 69, check out the blog for details and listen to the podcast here via itunes or here at a direct download at libsyn (takes a bit to download) or go to iTunes, search "Sew Forth Now" in the iTunes store.

Kwik Sew 2845

2011-07-16T19:59:00.000-05:00

This pattern has been on my to do list for quite some time. Belinda made it back in 2009 and her versions are beautiful. Then there are Gigi's versions, also gorgeous.

It has taken me awhile but finally I have made this top. I thought about it again after Lynne made a skirt from Sew Serendipity book and wanted suggestions for tops. I dug out this pattern as a possibility for her and decided it was time to make one for me.

Pattern Description: Misses' knit tops. View A and B sleeveless, tank style tops with ribbon in casing that gathers the front neckline. View B has empire waist on front with elastic in casing. View C is a peasant style stop with short raglan sleeves and elastic in the neckline and armholes. I made view B with sleeves from another pattern

Pattern Sizing: XS to XL

Fabric: A stretch rayon from fabric.com, ordered it after Lynne used it for a cute anthro-inspired top for herself.

Likes/Dislikes: I never was drawn to this pattern until I saw the variations out there on the internet. Then I quickly ordered the pattern. Adding the sleeves to this pattern made all the difference in me liking this one.
Another like is the peasant look without all the fullness

Changes: I added 1" to the bodice. The sleeves are from Jalie 2787. Several of my other changes are the ones Belinda wrote in her review. These include adding a CF seam to the bodice for the ties, eliminating the buttonhole. Added to the shoulders for the sleeves. Also, added 1" to the hem for length.

My tie is self-fabric but I used a piece of 1/4" elastic (cut an inch shorter than the back), sewing a self-fabric tie to each end of the elastic. I threaded this into the neck casing and stitched in the ditch so the elastic was in the back casing.

Conclusion: A fun top, with great design, probably a new favorite of mine. I will add another inch or two to the length.