If you're ever looking for a nice, quick gift to give, try this tea wallet tutorial (I'm thinking teacher gifts). This was an easy to follow, simple to construct project that went together in under an hour. Of course, I always seem to complicate projects like these by doing something like..... using printable fabric paper. I'll spare you the details on finding an image, getting it to print correctly, etc. because that whole process didn't go so well. The fabric sheets didn't sew up very nice either - I would say top stitching is not recommended (neither is making a mistake because it's likely that your needle will make a permanent hole). Overall, I like the way it turned out, I'll just be using 'real' fabric next time! By the way, the Peach Iced Tea quote is from an episode of the Office.

Sometimes you just have to know when to call a project quits - especially when you're 'winging it'. I had thought that I would make a set of coasters for my Office Themed Swap. I printed off images that I wanted to use, fused them with vinyl (this was my first mistake. This vinyl product works so much better with fabric than paper), added batting and a flannel backing, and sewed it together with bias tape around the edges. While it looks o.k. in the picture, it feels... well, cheap. It makes a funny crinkle sound when you touch it (no doubt from the vinyl fused paper) and it feels thin even though there's a layer of batting sandwiched in between it all. So, I've decided to scrap the whole thing and go with something else - a tea wallet. My thought is that I'll use printable fabric sheets to make an Office themed cover and do the same for the inside. With that said, I had better get to work!

With some deadlines completed and met, it's time to start thinking about working on my Office Swap package. For this round, I'm only needing to make one small, medium, and large project. I had just a bit of time the other day and decided I would go ahead and work on the small. I opted to do a freezer paper stencil of "Scott's Tots" -- and used Simply Spray Fabric Paint. I really should have just used the silk screening ink, I would have liked the results better.

While it looks ok in the photo, the Simply Spray did nothing but bleed - so now the entire design has a greenish (I used black spray) glow around the letters. I had used this particular product when I made the Schrute Farm Beets shirt last year and was pleased with the results, but the spray paint look was more of what I was going for.... this time it wasn't. However, I think I'm leaving this project 'as is'. I'm afraid that if I go back over it with fabric paint or even markers, I'll mess it up even more - I'm just chalking it up as lesson learned.

A cleaver idea for holding your supplies at a workshop - a notions bottle cozy.

I had a pair of flip top mittens in grade school and thought that they were the coolest things, ever! Now you can make a pair of your own, just in time for the GIANT snowstorm that's about to hit the East. [link via Craft]

Tips and Tricks by Melly & Me.

Need a funny baby gift for the science enthusiast? They this elemental bib, it's sure to get a laugh!

I've ruined more clothing by dripping acrylic paint on them. Now I can save my shirt (pants or what have you) by removing the spots with this method! Even though the author says it remove spots 99% of the time, I'm guessing it won't remove this one.

Enter to win a copy of Sew Liberated's book, chef hat and apron set, and some adorable Japanese fabric.

Yes, finally. Something for the (little) boys!

5 free knitting projects for Valentine's Day.

Need a new sewing machine? Don't buy one, win one!

I have a number of my dad's old ties that I've been hanging onto for just the right project. This hat isn't one of them (it looks like something a pixie might wear?). Although, these place mat and napkins might work.

Ditch the paper towels and make yourself a t-shirt wipe up instead.

Think Crafts' Free Stuff Friday giveaway.

Two good things about this tutorial: 1) Easton's toys could definitely use some organization, 2) I have several of these vinyl packages in the closet.

Is it really Thursday? I mean that seriously. If it wasn't for the fact the trash man came today, I wouldn't have realized what day of the week it was - I have completely lost track of time. While this is great in the fact that it's that much closer to the weekend, it also means that I haven't accomplished as much as what I had hoped.... including rounding up links for today's post.

So, since I don't have my usual Linky Thursday up and running (stay tuned for it tomorrow, instead), I thought I would have an 'open discussion' today. I've been having a great conversation with a reader about sewing for profit and realized that I have made a conscious choice not to do much of it - mainly because I use sewing as a creative outlet and as relaxation. However, I know many of you make a nice living (or at least support your hobby) buy sewing for others, carrying items in online stores, etc.. So here comes the question(s). Do you sew for profit? If not why and if you do, do you devote all of your sewing to it or do you find time to sew for yourself\family\etc.?

I have a confession to make, I'm starting to like giving you little peeks at future tutorials. I've had this particular project in my head for quite some time, so it was nice to draft up a pattern and see it turn into something tangible. I can see lots of possibilities with this one and I can't wait to see what everyone does with it! While this project will be the last 'peek' for a bit (then it's on to finalizing the instructions, uploading pictures, and mailing the actual samples off), I'll have some new ones in just a few months for you..... I keep coming up with more ideas so it should just be a matter of selecting which one is the best and then develop it! In the mean time, I plan on concentrating on a few projects for my Office Swap and start that spring sewing.... I don't care what that groundhog says. It's time for spring!

The groundhog might have predicted 6 more weeks of winter, but I'm already planning for spring. Anne at Needle Nook mentioned she was getting in some new prints (plus with her Anniversary sale going on, she was having a sale on patterns too) so I thought this was a good time to start lining up my 'must sew list' for a new season. While I was there, I picked up two Kwik Sews - a new pajama set for Easton and a dress pattern for myself.... I love that it's a Kwik Serge dress (I seem to only have time for the fast projects anymore). I also broke down and purchased Jalie's Sport Skort for Taylor - we had a heck of a time finding something that might work for golf last year. This one (when lengthened a bit) should be perfect - it's cute and has pockets! Plus the compression shorts (shortened) reminds me of the boyshort dancewear that Taylor has been making me buy her for tumbling class.

I also left with a few fabrics - two print and solid sets for Easton's pjs, a fun leopard slinky that will be turned into a crossover top (or maybe a fun tee), a gorgeous slinky print (for my Kwik Sew dress), and a basic black for trim. A whole lot of goodies that should set me up for awhile! Now, bring on spring!

Just another sneak peek at an upcoming Sewing Republic tutorial. Not only will this one have zippers, but a bit of piping too. Of course, my favorite part of this one is the fabrics - zebra and red have become my favorite combination. Speaking of the Sewing Republic, there's a new project up on the site - a toddler scarf (modeled by the most adorable little boy)! No little ones your house to sew for? Don't worry, you can make one for yourself with this tutorial instead!

Now it's time to get busy in the sewing room. I headed out to Needle Nook yesterday and came home with a bag full of goodies (more on that tomorrow) to sort through, 2 more projects to finish, and an Office Swap to start! It looks like a busy week ahead - let's just hope Easton decides to nap this week.

One of the books that I've been eagerly awaiting was Christopher Nejman's Celebrity Bags. Over time, I had seen more and more photos of what was included in his latest release, which made me want it more. Today, is his official launch of the book and, the most important part, the cost..... I had sticker shock. I will admit, I have been 'spoiled' by Amazon and their low prices - I haven't paid 'retail' for a book in ages. But, with braces to pay for, an 18% increase in our insurance costs (ouch), a new car that's needed on the horizon (our 'tank' just isn't holding out anymore), and the fact I just resubscribed to Burda and Ottobre this month, I just don't think I can justify buying this book at the moment. I would love to know if anyone does purchase it, your thoughts as I will definitely be keeping it in mind in the future! By the way, what's the most expensive book that you've ever sprung for?

Exactly as predicted, I got nothing done yesterday - well, at least not in the sewing department! Oh sure, we baked cupcakes, played in the snow (and as you can tell in the picture, it was knee-deep on Easton in some places), drank hot chocolate, ate popcorn and watched some movies (about 30 minutes of each movie before Easton got bored with it). Not only did I end the day being extremely sore (between shoveling snow and pushing kids around on the sled), but I was exhausted.... and can you believe Easton never napped? I guess I don't have to worry that he got hypothermia from the cold temperatures!

Today it's off in my sewing room to tidy up and work on a few projects.... and then it's back out in the snow. Taylor wants to take advantage of it before it all melts. Should I tell her we're supposed to get more on Monday?

We're having a snow day! I would love to say that this means I'm going to get a lot accomplished, but I know that we'll be spending much of the day playing in the snow, making some baked goods (why does baking always sound good when it's a snow day?), and no doubt, playing with MoonSand (this is Easton's new favorite activity). I did manage to finish up Easton's latest Jalie tee. I really love the way it turned out, except that it really needs some sort of design on the front. I went ahead and put it on him yesterday, but it's a bit plain - I'll be searching for a coordinating tattoo logo\print over the next couple of days and will keep you posted on this shirt's new look. Anyone else having a snow day (or just playing hooky)?

It seems like everyone is selling those reusable totes anymore. Way back when, I bought one from Joann's. Ever wonder how much can fit in it and how much weight it can hold? Apparently you can store a small toddler comfortably inside for an afternoon without breaking the straps or having the bottom fall out.

A new issue of Apronology is about ready to hit the newstands. Here's your chance to win you own copy.

Ottobre shows you how to make their Garden Party Skirt.

I am completely enamored with this little puff pouch. I may have to make one. [link via Thimble]

I'm really not sure how Prilosec has anything to do with sponsorship, but here's your chance to be sponsored for what you do. One hundred people will win $1,000 to go toward their passion.

I haven't tried it (but I would love for someone to leave feedback if they have), but this clear starch alternative looks like a great way to tame hard to sew fabrics!

Got lots of stuff to carry? Make yourself a messenger bag.

Have a seamstress that you would like to acknowledge? Enter them in Sew New's Sewing Idol competition where the winner will receive a whole truckload of prizes!

Make a pillowcase to make a difference in your community - the 1 Million Pillowcase Challenge.

If you're watching the newest season of Project Runway, you've probably already decided who'll win. Leave a comment on this thread with your prediction and if you're correct, you'll win a goodie box full of prizes.

I'll never look at the party isle the same again (can anyone say new fabric resource?) - turn plastic table cloths into Valentine treat bags.

Win a copy of One Hour Craft!

You wouldn't think that one appointment in the morning would throw my whole day off, but apparently it has - what a late post this is for me! I did manage to 'pull' some fabrics for muslins, prototypes, and actual mock-ups of my future Sewing Republic projects. I managed to jot down some construction 'notes' (although one is almost finalized) and need to spend some time finalizing them - I have decided I need a new system of writing tutorials. Currently I hand write notes and steps as I think they should be followed, then I make a 'mock-up' following those notes that way I can determine what works, what doesn't, and what needs clarification. Then I type the instructions with the changes, make a final project (taking photos, etc.), and then make a final draft of the project instructions (with any changes I may have made during the last mock up). So I guess this leads me to my question: For those of you who write tutorials, patterns, sewing instructions, or even just a quick write up for a friend who likes your designs, etc. what's your process? It just seems like mine has too many steps.....

I won't go so far as to say that I cleaned out my closet, so let's just say that I stumbled across a shirt that really doesn't fit anymore. It's ages old so it's out of style (since shirts are longer, this one looks way too short when you wear it), but it's wonderfully soft, is a great color (I just love the darkish gray), and I just couldn't bear to part with it. So instead of giving it way, I decided that I'm recycling it into something else..... a shirt for Easton. I intend on using Jalie 2918 and a fantastic 'diaper cut' print that I got from The Fabric Fairy awhile ago - just for the purpose of using it as shirt sleeves.

I went ahead and cut everything out and just barely eeked out enough fabric for both the shirt and sleeves. How close was it? I had to use the hem as neck ribbing. I wasn't kidding that this shirt ran small!

One thing I promised myself is that "if I'm going to make a gift for a holiday\special event, I'm giving myself plenty of time to work on it." I know we're only one month into the new year, but so far, I've stuck with it (now about writing those Pattern Reviews......). Ta-Da, Taylor's Valentine Boxers - well before the holiday! The only change I made to this version is that I lowered the rise by an inch. I don't think she was crazy about the fit of the previous version I made (as evidence of her hiking them up under her armpits), so I altered the pattern a bit this time around. Overall, I like the way they turned out, however the fabric, even after washing, is still stiff. I'm hoping they soften after a few more cycles. The best part? These boxers look great with the shirt I just made!

Just a little sneak peek as to what I've been working on over the weekend....... Once I tweek the instructions a bit, it'll be ready to ship off to the folks at Bernina (look for it to go live on The Sewing Republic website sometime in the future). Now to hide this one from Taylor - I'm pretty sure she'd like to confiscate it.

What is your favorite part of sewing (besides the actual sewing itself?)? For me, it's the planning (heaven knows it's not the cutting!). I love being able to look through fabrics and imagine what they might become, I daydream about patterns and how I would sew them up, and sometimes I get answers to swap questionnaires that push me to think creatively. Right now I'm in planning heaven because I've been doing all three!

My latest Ottobre arrived and I really loved this issue. I found that there were several boy's garments that I wanted to make that were dramatically different than styles I've currently seen - maybe it's because Easton's bigger now and can fit into more patterns. I'm hoping to make this sleeveless hoodie before spring.... I even think I have some fabric stashed that will work perfectly! My Burda also arrived yesterday and am very excited about this issue. In fact, my first top for spring is going to be this one. I can easily see it becoming the new 'twist top'.

This past week, I also joined a Craftster swap - The Office Round 4. While partners for this swap won't be assigned until Monday, I'm still brainstorming ideas. Speaking of brainstorming, I've been busy coming up with new projects and tutorials for another year at The Sewing Republic! Thanks to a conversation with a friend yesterday, I got the inspiration to make what I think will be a very fun and unique project to the site. I drafted a pattern last night and hope to test it out this afternoon.

Now it's time to get ready and head out to Joann's so that I can pick up some supplies - I need to take these ideas from paper and turn them into 'real' projects!

Ever since Taylor was little, I've liked to do something special for her on Valentine's Day. She's now at the age where candies and toys just don't cut it in the present department (alright candy does still work). So this year, I decided on making her a sleep set. I was thrilled that I found a perfect fabric that matched the lip stencil that I had used for myself several weeks ago (you can see the fabric print on the sidebar under the title, "Kwik Sew 2489 Boxers") - this way I could make a set of comfy boxers and matching shirt (purchased). Instead of using the foil method, I used glitter instead (it's supposed to hold up in the wash). After just a few minutes of work (and several hours of dry time) I wound up with the shirt on the left...... and I love it! Now it's onto the boxers..... and deciding what Easton might like this year!

Learn how to make a difference in your community - Make a Pillowcase and Make a Difference.

When I was little I used to think that muffs were so cool - in fact I think I even had one that went with a little rabbit fur jacket. Now you can bring back the muff style by making one of your own.

Win a Nicole Mallalieu pattern.

Think you know what's ugly? Then use it to design the most unattractive necklace and you could win $992 shopping spree at Land of Odds. [link via Starving Crafter]

Mushroom pincushions are here, and you can get yours for free.

Sandra Betzina's Spring Fashion Forecast.

If you love to make plush, be sure to check out Plush You's Olympic Challenge.

Win a a gorgeous wool embroidery bag - this post has all the details!

Leave your comment for a chance to win Color Your Cloth, plus get a FREE pattern for the Baktus Scarf.

Make yourself these simple appliqued towels to decorate you home for Valentine's Day.

DIY Cat House - and I'm not talking about the kind you might see in Nevada. [link via Whip Up]

It's almost prom dress season and if you plan on making your own, be sure to enter it in Joann's "Own Your Look" prom contest.

Need more thread? Then enter to win Sew, Mama, Sew's True Love Valentine Contest and a Coats and Clark thread collection could be yours!

The art of gingerbread houses completely eludes me, which is why this Up inspired gingerbread house (a Craftster challenge winner) is even more fantastic.

A good article on how to adjust your thread tension.

Transform your t-shirt into a tunic.

If you would have told me 5 years ago that I would (successfully) be sewing on slinky, I would have thought you were kidding. However, yesterday, I finished up my scarf-collar top (in the deep eggplant slinky) and I have to admit it looks great! The fit is spot-on, the fabric feels wonderful when you wear it, and the design of this pattern is fantastic. My only wish is that I had a bit of bronzer when I wear this one because the color washes me out a bit...... maybe if it ever warms up around here (even a bit of sunshine would be nice) I'll be able to go outdoors again.

With this shirt behind me, I'm mulling over what my next project will be. My list of projects has substantially grown over the past two weeks and it's time to prioritize what I should be working on first! Speaking of sewing to-do lists, what's on everyone's?