General Project Archive
This page contains the entries from the General category. For categories with more than 50 entries, please use the search form to locate older entries.
Keep Me Warm
I know that I get easily 'distracted' when it comes to sewing. I have a tendency to work on a project, see something that I have to make, then shove it aside to work on the new item - this is how my UFO (Un-Finished Objects) pile grows... and this is how my latest project came into being. Partners were assigned in the Keep Me Warm Swap last night and I was inspired to make this coffee cuff after 'stalking' my partner. Essentially I used an interfaced layer of fabric for the exterior and a piece of Jiffy Grip (that bumpy stuff you use for non-skid soles of slippers and kids footed pajamas) for the underside (with a layer of fusible interfacing in between) - this should keep the cuff from slipping off the cup while you're drinking. The finished cuff is held together by an elastic band and large button.
I have to say, these are so easy to make and so cute - if I had more family members that drank coffee\tea\hot chocolate, I'd make them some... although this time I might give this design a whirl.
With that said, it's time to get back to my Sunday Sling - it's almost finished and I am determined that it will not become a UFO. How is every else's New Year's sewing going?
Blythe Love
I have wanted a Blythe doll for quite some time. There is something about those HUGE eyes (even in college I loved big eyed dolls, so much so a friend of mine once bought me a Little Miss No Name I obsessed over) and big head that totally won me over - not to mention the fashions are so cute on a miniature scale. Thanks to my wonderful husband, I will be getting one this Valentine's day. Sunshine Holiday Blythe (pictured on the left) will be arriving sometime early next month! Of course, that means I'll have the opportunity to make all sorts of fun doll fashions. I've managed to pick up Simplicity 2353 and even splurged on a Dolly Coordinate Recipe Book (also arriving in February). Stay tuned for some upcoming doll projects, but in the mean time does anyone else own a Blythe (Pullip, or similar) that has any suggestions for patterns, supplies, etc.?
Linky Thursday
Download this cute calendar for January to fold and perch atop your desk. Then come back every month for a new look!
You could be the next sewing star! Find out how you could appear on It's Sew Easy.
These sweater pillows look so cozy... I want to make a set and snuggle with them.
Cakes inspired by designers - delicious and gorgeous.
Spice up your couch with a fun cross throw.
According to The Long Thread, these are the top 100 tutorials of 2010.
Have a blog? Made a pillow in the past 3 months? Then enter to win Noodlead's Blogger's Pillow Party - up for grab's 5 1/2 yards of Innocent Crush!
Win 3 yards of fabulous muslin - perfect for testing jacket patterns.
Make an 'ordinary' plaid shirt more feminine with this Lady Lumberjack tutorial.
Nothing But Mistakes
I spent the majority of my evening with a seam ripper. Most of my issue(s) can be blamed on distraction and just not focusing on the directions - I shouldn't sew a new pattern when I can't pay attention to it! Consequently, I only have the pleats and the bag handles attached to my Sunday Sling... I gave up shortly after since I was making too many mistakes. I guess I should look on the bright side, at least I noticed my mistake(s) before getting further into my project! Anyone else have days like that - no matter what you do, it's wrong?
Cutting and Fusing
After hours of cutting and fusing, I am finally ready to start sewing my Sunday Sling. While there doesn't appear to be lots of pieces with this bag, several of the templates need to be folded over (some more than once) to create a new pattern - pair that up with exterior fabrics, lining material, and several layers of interfacing and you've got a whole day's worth of activity right there. While it seems like I'm complaining (and to some extend I am because cutting is my least favorite activity.... following by ironing), it's really worth it in the end as all that interfacing really makes for a professional looking bag.
On a side note, I'm having lots of problems with the comments portion of my site. Spam has really become a problem over the past few months so we've been tinkering with the filters. Consequently, for whatever reason, a lot of your comments are not appearing on the site and are being flagged as spam.... and the spam comments are still sneaking through! To try to remedy this, you'll find numerous posts are now closed and the filters have been changed again. If you attempt to post, but do not see your comment on the site - don't hesitate to send me an email (stacysews[at]gmail.com). This will help us fix the filters again until the new (and hopefully improved) site is up and running!
To Infinity....
Even though we haven't had any real snow yet, temperatures have finally turned cold enough for 'winter accessories'. In fact, I was so chilled the other night, I spent much of it sipping hot chocolate under my Wonder Woman Snuggie surfing the web. This of course 'inspired' me to join my latest swap, Keep Me Warm.... similar to my scarf swap, but with hot drinks!
Speaking of scarves, the latest Sewing Republic tutorial is up and it's for the Infinity Scarf. I'd love to give this one a test run, especially if this is up to my partner's tastes - even though it's probably considered more 'decorative' than warm.
First Project For The New Year
I've been debating what should be my first project of the new year - and I've finally settled on Amy Butler's Reversible Sunday Sling. I selected this one not just because I'm a sucker for a cute bag pattern, but also because of the fabric... I'm in love with this fabric:
These are two cotton prints I recently picked up on a recent shopping trip to Sew Much. I'm normally not a purple fan, but these colors are so vibrant, and the fabric had such a pretty sheen I couldn't resist! (For those that are wondering, these are from Anthology Fabrics).
So here's a little breakdown about the cost of this project:
Pattern........$0.00
Fabric.........$25.68
Notions........$16.73
Total..........$42.41
Now to get cutting! While this particular project doesn't have a lot of pieces, it does require lots and lots of cutting (exterior and lining prints as well as several layers of interfacing and fleece) and fusing. I suspect that is an all day project in itself... so much for a clean sewing room!
Year End Wrap Up
One of my 'resolutions' from last year was to keep a journal of all the projects that I've worked on throughout the year. Even though I have a sidebar with may of my projects, not everything makes it there (although there's generally an entry on my blog). So what was I up to in 2010?
In 2010, I made a grand total of 109 items:
- 43 were made using my own patterns. Of those 23 were aprons (apparently, this was the 'Year of the Apron'), 7 were projects for The Sewing Republic (1 didn't make it onto the site and may appear here in 2011), and only 4 were box bags (a much smaller number than last year).
- 11 were made using Kwik Sew. I used 3034 three times, make it the most used pattern from this company.
- 10 were 'embellished' items (for lack of a better category) - Burp cloths and kitchen towels were thrown into this group).
- 9 were Jalie sewing patterns. My favorite pattern of the year was 2918 - I made it 4 times.
- 7 were Fun Fleece Animal Hats
- 7 were Chickpea Sewing Studio's Infant Baby Bibs
- 5 were Sis Boom Tommy Boxer patterns.
- 3 projects were made from books - Sew What! Bags
, One-Yard Wonders
, and Simply Sublime Gifts
- 2 were Amy Butler patterns
- 2 were from BurdaStyle
- 2 were from ikat bag - the fun chicken pattern
- 2 were Scientific Seamstress (All the Rage Raglans)
- 1 was a Hot Patterns (I had started more, just never finished them all - Darn UFOs)
- 1 was a Butterick
- 1 was a Simplicity
- 1 was an Echino
- 1 was a Scoodie Tutorial
- 1 was a Jaime Christina pattern
I plan on doing this again next year - I think it's amazing to be able to see everything at a glance and look back at how much I've accomplished in one year... even with a toddler 'assisting' me with everything!
So what's on the table for 2011? Lot's more projects, a new site design (brace yourself, it's a dramatic, new look), giveaways, and more tutorials! I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Years eve and I'll see you in 2011!
Linky Thursday
Still needing a dress to ring in 2011? Here's some tips on sewing a fabulous last-minute frock or try out Fabric.com's latest pattern.
Stop using those cardboard wraps around your coffee and create your own one-of-a-kind Hot Drink Wrap!
They may be too late for Christmas gifts, but everyone loves a zippered wallet!
I'm a sucker for a covered notebook, but this mini oil cloth version might very well be my favorite.
Having a few guests over tomorrow night? Whip up a few of these coasters to set your champagne on.
Turn an old sweater into a potluck dish cozy.
Yes, I'm a geek and yes, I want to make this bag.
Next time you're at the store, pick up a roll of Glad Press 'n Seal - a brilliant way to make your own patterns from your favorite clothing!
I think these Singed Fabric Flowers are beautiful and elegant. Plus it means I can work with an open flame.
Dalliance Gloves
I present to you the last completed project of 2011 (I'm attempting to be realistic)... the Dalliance Gloves. I'm not really much of a fingerless glove\arm warmer type of person, but the details of this pattern made me want to give it a try. My scarf swap was a perfect excuse to try it out, too since I was making an accessory to match my Scoodie.
Besides the design itself, I liked the idea that the Dalliance Gloves could be made in a woven or a knit material. Since I was going for a 'matched set' look, I decided on using the rest of the boucle and flannel to make this pattern. Consequently, I had to 'size' my gloves for a woven material - I measured my own hand and was slightly larger that a medium so to be on the safe side, I cut and sewed a large for my partner. Most of the pieces have to be cut on the bias so it 'stretches' a bit when you put them on, unfortunately, I found that there's just not enough stretch there for them to fit well - while I could put my hand though just fine, I had Taylor try them on and she struggled. I'm not sure if the sizing runs small or I did something 'wrong' (cut wrong, printed it off too small, etc.), but I'm guessing that my poor partner won't be able to wear them. Other than the 'fit' issue, the end result looks good although is a bit bulky because of my fabric choice. Next time I guess I'll try the knit version and see how it turns out.
Scoodie
Call it swap anxiety, but I decided that the t-shirt scarf might not be 'enough' for my Scarf Swap (I since this one time wise might not take as long as what knitting one would)... so I made a second one to send with it. This time I went with a scoodie! I debated back and forth with myself as to making a pattern myself or using a pattern. I settled on this one from Just Tutorials because I liked the hood shape. I wound up using a purple\pink boucle for the exterior (note to self: cutting boucle fabric on a newly vacuumed floor is a bad idea if you want to keep your room clean) and a cute skull and crossbones flannel for the lining. Overall, the pattern was easy to put together (just a few pieces to tape), easy to sew (although I thought of an easier way to make this project with fewer pieces), and actually looks cute on (I was a bit on the fence about how I liked Scoodies until I made this one). You may be seeing more of these in the future - just not in boucle. Now I remember why I don't sew more with this material - messy, messy, messy!
T-Shirt Scarf
Well thanks to an upgrade by Movable Type, I've been unable to post for awhile. Thankfully Bret was able to figure it out for me and I can now write again. Good thing too, I have a new project to share... the T-Shirt Scarf! This one was extremely easy to sew and definitely fun. Basically, I used 9 shirts, cut them into 11x11" squares, and sewed them together. I did the same with the back of the shirt and sewed the fronts and back together.
I think if I try this one again, I'll do a two things differently:
- I'll use kids shirts - this will make a thinner version of the scarf (you really need it to be 11x11 to get most of your images fully onto your scarf when using adult shirts) and allow you to use more designs as well.
- I'll rotate the images at the 'halfway' point of the scarf (in the scarf above, all the shirts are going the same direction) so that when you wear the scarf, both edges are 'right side up'.
'Twas The Night Before Christmas
There is nothing like a weight being lifted off your shoulders - last night I managed to cross off all my sewing 'to do's' (despite the fact that I had way too much help from a two-year old). Unfortunately, there's not much to show (lot's of hemming and mending) unless you want to see more LBD aprons. Now that my 'sweat shop' is closed, I'm free to work in the kitchen today. On the agenda, Bourbon Black Bottom Pie - a recipe that I don't make very often, but is highly requested, especially around the holidays. We'll also be whipping up some cookies for Santa and making Ham Hocks and Navy Beans to warm us up after church tonight.
Since we're on the subject of cooking\baking, I thought I would mention that I did finally make Christmas Crack earlier in the week... and it was a hit! No one even suspected that crackers were what gave this treat it's crisp. Although I thought it was pretty good, I think I'd prefer to waste my empty calories into eating the black bottom pie.
I'm sure that everyone is hurrying around preparing for guests, doing last minute shopping, wrapping gifts, etc. so I'll wrap this post up. But before I do, I want to thank each and every one of you for visiting me every day, sharing my projects and yours, and just being a part of my life. I am very thankful for such a wonderful international sewing community! Have a very merry Christmas to those that celebrate and I'll 'see' you all on Sunday!
Linky Thursday
I'm always on the lookout for projects for men. Here's one on how to make a cuff watch.
We are entering the last days of Sew News' 12 days of giveaways. Hurry to enter to win a copy of The Gentle Are of Quiltmaking or if you're running late - refresh the page for today's new freebie!
Design a bag and win a Janome sewing machine! This one is only open to UK residents - anyone want to let me borrow their house for a few months?
Looking for last minute gifts for the sewer? We All Sew has a 3 part gift guide to help you out. Prefer to make it yourself. Learn how\what you can make last minute.
Because I'm in 'scarf sewing' mode - the Figure 8 Scarf!
Great tip on how to store your quilting rulers - I may have to give this a whirl because at the moment I'm using a holder specifically designed for OmniGrid rulers and am running out of room. Be sure to leave a comment while you're reading and you'll be entered to win this week's set of fat quarters.
Alright, I think everyone and their brother has linked to Not Martha's Christmas tree mobile and I can't help it either - it's that awesome. Maybe in about 10 years I'll be able to put one up, at the moment it wouldn't survive the night.
Cute gift wrapping ideas. Too bad I spent last night wrapping presents already.
Have some stuffers, but no stocking? Make this Christmas Stocking with Ruffle for your fireplace (or door).
Taylor is obsessed with playing the game, Angry Birds. Too bad I stumbled across these Angry Birds plush tutorials too late for Christmas: Yellow Bird, plush pig and blue bird, and Angry Red Bird.
I adore this holiday babydoll dress, learn how to make it yourself!
Brave Shopper
Somehow, I managed to muster up enough courage to brave the fabric store today (it's located in a mall) so that I can get enough supplies for some last minute apron order sewing. Apparently, most of the city must have had the same idea because not only was it busy, but there were a lot of empty shelves (totally unlike my Joann's). Aside from 'business sewing', what else will I be up to the next few days:
Wrapping. Lots and lots of wrapping. I'd love to try my hand at Furoshiki (link via We All Sew), but I think the kids like the sound of tearing paper better. Maybe in a few years.
Finishing up my t-shirt scarf. So far, the front and the back are pieced, I just need to 'put them together'.
Work on some Dalliance Gloves. There is something about this pattern I really love - and I'm not even a wrist warmer type of person. The best part is, you can use them with woven or knit fabric which is perfect since my scarf swap partner will probably be getting a set.
Slow Sewing
I am officially in vacation mode. Taylor is out of school until next year and we've already visited family for the holidays (and done gift exchanges) so my Christmas sewing is finished (I have a few things I'd like to make, but they can wait until later if I can't get to them). Consequently, sewing around here is going slow... the most I've accomplished in washing all the shirts for this scarf, making a template (I figured if I was cutting out a lot of shirts an 11x11 template was the way to go), and cutting out the squares for sewing. I've decided that if I make one for myself I may make a skinnier version (possibly cutting 6x6 inch squares) using children's shirts - that way you keep the entire design of the shirt intact, but have a thinner look to the wrap.... sounds like a good project for the new year!
Scarves In The Works
Well, I went and did it again. I joined another swap... of course, I couldn't pass this one up because it's all about scarfs (I am using the cold weather as the perfect excuse). Not only does this give me the perfect excuse to make this scarf, but I am thinking of playing around with a second style as well (I kind of have some crafter's guilt about how long it takes to to knit a scarf vs sewing one so I've decided I'll stitch up two). Since partners have already been announced, I couldn't wait to get my material's together so I've already headed to my local Goodwill in search of some awesome shirts to reconstruct.... stay tuned for the final results this week!
Doomed, But With A Great Outcome
Rounding out the last of the holiday sewing is another apron - this one for my (other) sister-in-law. While I simply adore the final outcome, this particular project was 'doomed' from the start. Let me share all the fiasco's that happened with this apron:
- While I had enough material for stripe pleats at the bottom of the apron, I didn't realize that I wouldn't have enough for the tie at the waist - both length and width. Consequently, the tie isn't as long as what I wanted and wound up having to use the dot fabric for the reverse side of the tie.
- My serger blade is in desperate need of changing (I've never done it with this machine and I'm thinking it may have to go in for 'service') and couldn't cut through the material - especially at the bottom of the apron where the pleat is attached to the apron. Consequently, this area looks like it was chewed up by a beaver (or other small animal with sharp teeth).
- I broke out in a spontaneous nose bleed while making this apron and dripped blood all over it - talk about putting your blood, sweat, and tears into a project! Thank goodness for diaper wipes, they seem to remove almost everything!
Considering everything that went wrong, I still LOVE this apron - it may be one of my favorites. Ever have a project like that?
It Matches... Again!
Thinking that an apron and oven mitt weren't enough, I decided to 'top off' my mother-in-law's gift by embellishing a set of kitchen towels in matching fabric (I also made a set for my sister-in-law as well). For this project, I used a microfiber towel (found at Walmart) and I have to say, I don't think I'll ever use any other. They are soft, appear well made, and the fabric that I added to it 'stuck' like magic... no shifting, no 'stretching', I'm not sure I even had to pin it!
Look for me to be making a similar set (apron, towels, oven mitts) again this summer as my sister-in-law is getting married and I think it might make a nice bridal shower gift. I may even make a 'his' apron as well... now I wonder if her fiance cooks?
Linky Thursday
I love owls (not the real ones, they are noisy when you're trying to sleep), but the cute, cuddly ones that appear on pajamas and pillows. The latest Sewing Republic project has you stitching up the most adorable stuffed version... and it won't keep you up at night hooting!
With a name like Falalala Felt, the book has to be good! Win a copy for yourself and find out.
For the Harry Potter fan in your life, a Harry Potter doll pattern.
It may be because I'm hungry, but this Christmas Crack recipe sounds delicious (and economical to boot!).
A great gift for the sewer in your life - sew them up a beautiful Needle Case.
Cover an old baking tray with fabric for a cute room 'pick me up'.
Have a little one interested in sewing? Win a copy of Sewing School for over 20 projects kids will want to make themselves.
Learn how to create a textured knit hem.
Don't get rid of that old, funky shirt - turn it into a Christmas stocking!
Looking at Little Girls Big Style, I wish I had a little girl to sew for! If you have one, here's your chance to win a copy of this cute book (or try your luck here as well)!
It Matches
My next project came right out of Simply Sublime Gifts
To do this I started with two pieces of fabric slightly larger than what I needed and sandwiched InsulBrite (to reflect heat) in between them. Instead of pinning the layers together, I used a temporary fabric spray adhesive and smoothed out any wrinkles. Then I started quilting - I used the guide bar that came with my machine to keep my lines evenly spaced (I highly recommend purchasing one since the alternative is to draw lines by hand).
After all the quilting I was ready to get started. The only drawback to this project is needing to enlarge the pattern on a copier (I really dislike having to do that). Otherwise, everything went together without a hitch and I have to admit that even though there was a lot of work involved (in the quilting), it was worth it since I really like that it matches the fabric to the apron. However, if I ever make this pattern in the future, I'll probably spring for pre-quilted material... it's just so much easier!
Easton's Mail
Quite awhile ago I joined A Week of Baby Onesies swap on Craftster. Unfortunately, my partner didn't send her package(s) and I was given an angel to craft one up for me... and look and the wonderful shirts she sent:
A striped golfer tee, a Christmas tree (unfortunately the photo didn't capture the tinsel\sparkles that were embellished on it), an airplane and train themed shirt, an adorable roaring dinosaur, and (everyone's favorite) Oso! She even added a few extra goodies - Smarties (like M&Ms) and a chocolate and marshmallow Santa (which were immediately eaten).
Best of all, Easton was so thrilled with his package, he had to show all his shirts to Taylor when she got home from school and even picked out what he was going to wear tomorrow (which is a first) - Oso! Thanks again to my wonderful angel partner - your shirts are adorable and much appreciated!
One Gift Down
With temperatures below freezing and a cold brewing on the horizon (stuffy headed haze), I thought it was best to stay inside and tackle some of my holiday projects. So, Nancy, if you're reading - Stop NOW!
This apron is for Bret's step-mom's birthday that's coming up in a few weeks. She requested a hand-made apron this year and I happily obliged! I decided to make her a pleated, contrast stripe, floral apron instead of a 'holiday' themed version... I figured she'll get more use out of it. I also plan on making some matching oven mitts with the remaining fabric I have on hand, but first, it's back to those boxer shorts and learn how to change the blade in my serger. That may be an all day project!
SWAP
For some sewers, SWAP means Sewing With A Plan (think coordinated wardrobe with mix and match pieces), but for others, like me, it means trading crafted goodies. If you've been reading this blog for awhile, you may have noticed that I love swapping (I've participated in over 40 Craftster swaps throughout the years), but the question I get asked the most is "Why do you do it?"
There's several reasons why I tend to swap:
- I am at my most creative when I swap. My favorite part is the day partners are released and I have the opportunity to see what sots of items my partner is interested in, looking at their 'wish lists', etc. and coming up with a package designed just for them.
- It gives me the opportunity to make some times I would never make for myself. There are lots of tutorials and patterns out there I would love to try, but would never make\wear\use myself (like a Scoodie, I just can't see myself wearing one, but I really want to make one). Swapping gives me the chance to try some of them out and give them to someone who will appreciate it.
- There are some crafts I just can't do, but strongly admire. By swapping, I'm occasionally paired up with someone who is skilled at a craft that I'm not (knitting, resin, jewelry, soap making, just to name a few) - combine that with a Wist (basically a 'wish list') and you get some awesome packages! I am always amazed at the skills my partners have.
- It's like Christmas in the mail. You just never know what you're getting so opening a package is always a surprise. I love receiving hand made goodies and proudly wear, use, and display what I get.
- The kids love it. Even though I make things for my kids, they like getting little 'presents' from someone else. I've been very lucky to have some fantastic partners who have always kept their interests in mind.
- I've made some great friends through swapping. Sometimes you have the opportunity to get to know your partner by chatting back and forth.
There are of course some downsides to swapping:
- You're working on a deadline. This can be a good thing, because I find myself being very productive, but it also means that I have to have a 'clear schedule' to participate (no other deadlines or busy with other projects).
- Flakers - those people who never send out a package. While I've been very lucky to have this happen only a handful of times, it does happen. If you stick with an experienced site such as Craftster, there are procedures in place to deal with it so you still receive a package.
- Swapping can be expensive. Between materials for the craft items themselves and shipping the items (especially overseas), swapping can be costly. However, there are some swaps that use stashed material or require you to send 'small' items that can help you save money.
Link Thursday
Make a cute little Yule House Ornament - a great scrap project!
There's something about those Swedish Dala horses that I find so adorable, that's why I find this applique stocking so cute. Learn how to make one of your very own.
Sweet little caroling dolls. Unfortunately, I think Easton would use these as bowling pins... boys!
Threadbanger teaches you how to make your own ruffled dress just in time for the holidays.
Stop by Sew News everyday for the next 12 days for loads of prizes. Yes, it's the 12 Days of Giveaways!
Knit up a tiny tree ornament to adorn your tree this year.
Tips on how to make a holiday dress.
Needing a tag to finish off your gift? Lisa has a huge listing of free tags available for download!
I joined (another) swap on Craftster this week - a scarf swap. Consequently, I'm on the hunt for some great sewing projects like this Ruffled Knit Scarf tutorial for my partner.
Snail Soup - I just find this (non-sewing) project so fun and clever... I can't wait until Easton is old enough to understand this 'gag'.
These fabric covered notepads would make a great project for the teacher or 'Secret Santa' partner in your life.
'Decorate' you couch for winter with snowflake pillows!
Giving clothes you've sewn as a gift this holiday season? Then why not make a matching fabric hanger (with scented satchel) to go with it?
It's Begining To Look A Lot Like Christmas
The weekend came and went in a flash. Normally, I'm a blogging fool, but I spent my entire Saturday and Sunday preparing for Christmas: decorating the house, putting up the tree, and finishing my shopping - yes, my shopping is DONE! Consequently, the only sewing I managed to fit in finished up several Little Black Dress aprons. Even though I would have liked to have finished more, I'm thrilled I don't have to hunt for gifts and fight the crowds.
Note: Instead of showing you my tree this year, I opted to post a photo of my ever growing collection of "Black Friday" snowglobes (this year's was the only thing I had to have from shopping, LOL). If anyone has 2001 and would like to trade, I may have an extra of other years that we could swap!
Mini Stockings
Just in time for the holidays, my latest project for The Sewing Republic has gone live! These little mini-stockings are perfect for 'wrapping up' gift cards, decorating the tree, or make 24 of them for a hanging advent calendar (you could also enlarge the pattern for full size versions as well)! All stockings are lined and there are two cuff styles available, one with a contrasting fabric and the other with a faux fur trim. While the fur on this trim was fairly short and easy to work with, you may find longer styles more difficult. Here's a few tips on working with fake fur:
- Try cutting trim from the wrong side, making small snips and cutting only the backing. This will assure that you are not cutting the fur itself.
- Keep in mind that fur has a nap - even trim. If you are making multiple stocking with the fur, be sure to keep them all running in the same direction.
- After cutting shake your trim or brush away any loose fur. After sewing with faux fur, be sure to clean your machine. Even if you shake away the excess, there will be a large amount of lint left in your machine.
- Before sewing, 'comb' the fur toward the center of the trim - away from seam allowances. This will help keep the fur from being sewn into the fabric. After sewing, free any fur from your seams by using a chopsitck or other blunt tool (for short hair, I use a thin metal dowel that came with my 'turning tool kit').
- I prefer sewing faux fur with a zigzag stitch. This helps keep the seam slightly more 'invisible'.
Linky Thursday
Learn how to make a faux fur, Peter Pan style collar (with cute little pom-poms too).
It may be too cold for a picnic, but it's never too cold for a patchwork fleece Picnic Throw.
How did I miss this? Hot Patterns has a new free pattern download available at Fabric.com - The Cascade-Cozy Shrug. By the way, today's deal of the day also happens to be 15% off all Hot Patterns collections.
A wonderful way to recycle a uniform.
Win a yard of Michael Miller fabric - read here for details, but hurry this one ends tomorrow!
Sometimes there are 'trends' in patterns - this month it appears it's a Pocket Advent Calendar! Here's a couple of tutorials to get you started: This one on Gwenny Penny and Fabric.com's version.
Win an 'Elastic by the Yard' Headband Kit!
Adorn your fireplace with stocking you've made from Denyse Schmit's free pattern.
Thanksgiving may be over, but I still love these Autumn Napkin rings.
I've always wanted to do Christmas crackers. Instead of buying them, you can make your own versions - here's how.
U-Handbag is turning 5! To celebrate Lisa is giving away TONS of freebies, check out how you can get yours.
Tryptophan Is Not A Myth
I had high hopes that I would accomplish something (in the sewing room that is) over the holiday weekend... I even had a pajama pattern picked out for Ann's PJ sew along. Unfortunately, copious amounts of tryptophan (i.e. turkey) left me too tired to make my way into the sewing room. However, I did make up for it yesterday and started cutting material for a Little Black Dress Apron order. Although I'd love to sew for myself, this takes precedence - not just because it's for a customer, but because I still have black thread in my serger and it seems all my other project require a more neutral color (or white)!
On the plus side, I'm just about done with my Christmas shopping which means I can focus in on some holiday sewing! I have several items that I need to make so I guess it's time to stop talking about them and get cracking!
Speaking of holiday sewing, what is everyone else working on? I'd love to hear some ideas (I might just add them to my list!).
Sew It All
Sew It All magazine hits newsstands in one week, but my contributor copy arrived this weekend! This issue is jam packed with 50 projects, including mine - an insulated water bottle carrier (with removable strap). This was a project that I had in my head for quite some time and was thrilled to finally put it to paper. Best of all, it's one of those projects that uses small amounts of fabrics (think leftover scraps or fat quarters) and can easily be made in under 2 hours! Sew It All is available on December 6... be sure to check it out and let me know what you think!
Gingerbread Villages
For about a week and a half, Taylor was looking forward to yesterday's activity... decorating gingerbread houses. This is one of those activities I usually dread - I'm not great with icing, they are horribly messy, and I find that the kits can be difficult to construct too.
I started with Target's Gingerbread Village. Save your money, this kit is horrible. The houses have to be broken apart - not an easy task when the gingerbread is hard and not scored enough for them to break apart evenly. I destroyed 2 complete buildings trying to break them by hand and then cutting them with a knife. The candy is unpalatable too - although they look pretty, some are bitter and those cute little gummy trees are unexpectedly minty. The houses are difficult to construct since the surviving houses were slightly uneven. I tried to 'smooth' them out so they would fit together better, but since the cookies were so hard all I did was break off chunks.
Since I didn't think 3 mini houses were going to be enough for 2 kids to decorate, I decided to head to Walmart. I found a kit in their bakery department and I was pleasantly surprised at what I got. There were 'good candies' inside (M&Ms, Skittles, etc.), all the gingerbread pieces were soft and all pre-cut, and there was a base included to 'glue' the house onto. Everything was easily put together and the best part of all? Nothing fell apart!
Of course, the most important part is that the kids had fun. Easton was in it for the candy alone - he gave up decorating the houses halfway through the second one. Taylor thoroughly enjoyed herself - now she's trying to protect her creation from Easton who is determined to pick off all the goodies from her door (and eat the sugar Santa).
Black Friday & More Hats
Perhaps you're wondering, "What happened to yesterday's post?" I can say it in two words, "Black Friday". Instead of starting at midnight like we originally intended, my mom (and Taylor this year too) and I decided we would skip the really early openings and just start off at 4am like we 'normally' do (although I did stop off at Michael's Thanksgiving evening for some of their goodies). After a day of shopping I came home and realized two things: 1) I never put up a post and that I was too tired to do it, and 2) I bought very little for gifts and stocked up for myself! Oh well, it's all in fun anyway. Did anyone else get out? What sorts of bargains did you manage to find?
As for sewing, I have one last set of hats to show you and then I promise, that's it (although i won't exclude sewing hats as gifts)! The last round are 'devil hats' for the kids - some days, it's so appropriate. Both of them refused to put it on and pose for a picture, so I was reduced to just snapping a photo of them on the coffee table.
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone celebrating today. I've put off Linky Thursday as I have spent yesterday and today in the kitchen.... as you can see, the turkey is already in the oven! If your looking to add a bit of sewing to your festivities, be sure to enter Hot Pattern's giveaway or join the pajama sew-along going on at Gorgeous Things. As for me, I'm hoping to sneak away and trace a pattern or two and take in some Black Friday shopping.... starting tonight. Yes, I know, I'm crazy, but it's definitely become a tradition with my mom and I.
Welcome Door Hanger
Making some last minute decorations for the holiday(s)? The latest project up at the Sewing Republic can help you out. This door hanger has lots of texture and can be personalized to great your visitors.
Now it's time to head off to the kitchen and do some Thanksgiving baking and prep work!
New To Me
Even though I had high hopes of getting lots of sewing in this past weekend, all I did was shop - and I managed to find some 'new to me' sewing goodies. First an absolutely adorable Little Monsters quilt pattern from Don't Look Now! Besides the fact that the quilt itself is cute (and not to mention geared toward boys), it came with two pillow patterns! At some point I think I'll make the personalized monster pillow for Easton - I think he'll love it!
I also picked up two prints from Anthology Fabrics. I'm not sure that I've heard of this company before, but so far, I'm really pleased with the material - the prints are gorgeous, the colors are vibrant, and it has a nice sheen to it (Cindy at Sew Much also said that it didn't wrinkle horribly after washing either)! I specifically bought these fabrics to make Amy Butler's Reversible Sunday Sling.
Anyone else find any 'new to me' products lately?
More Hats
I had high hopes of tackling a number of projects this weekend. Unfortunately, all I did were these... and they weren't even on my list:
The camo bunny hat is for Easton - he seemed to like the one I made for this swap so much I thought I would make him his own (I made the small adult size and it fits him fairly well). The 'Hello Kitty' version is for Taylor. I used the cat pattern for the fun fleece animal hat pattern and added a bow, eyes, and a nose. I think that it needs a bit more tweeking if I decide to make this version again.
Link Thursday
If a Pillow Pet is high on your child's Christmas list, then you might want to think about making your own version.
I'm totally intrigued by Kraft Paper (the material that looks like paper, but behaves like fabric) - and here's a quick tutorial on how to put this material to use!
Anyone else excited for the new Harry Potter movie this weekend? I plan on wearing my Dark Mark Illusion scarf - learn how to make yours here (and if I'm able to find all the ingredients, I'll be making my own butterbeer as well!).
I definitely want a set of these Beribboned Estate Sale Pearls.
Looking for a way to stay cozy this winter? Enter to win a set of Brassy Apple scarf patterns!
Win a copy of MixTape magazine.
Learn how to add a removable faux fur collar to your coat.
As much as I love the idea of Jelly Rolls, I never know what to do with them. If you've got a quilt idea that you'd like to share using Jelly Rolls, you could be featured in an upcoming book and be eligible to win one of 3 'special prizes'.
I'm in cute overload - learn how to make adorable mushroom pincushions.
Sew, Mama, Sew! is doing their "Gifts for____" series this month.... so far, I want to make everything - for myself!
Tracing And Snacks
Probably one of the least exciting posts has to do with the prep work before sewing. In this case, it's tracing off a pattern and washing denim (several times). Last night I traced off all the pieces to Hot Pattern's Classix Nouveau Dressy Jean and washed my fabric 3 times to make sure it was soft and shrunk up enough so I didn't end up with capris later on down the road. I would have traced off this dress from the latest Ottobre Woman as well, but I ran out of Easy Pattern tracing cloth - which means I have to make another trip to Joann's this week.
I'm also finishing up my crafted item for the International Snack Swap.... for a change I am not sewing anything, but 'painting' something instead. I'll be posting the completed item tomorrow when it's done.
What is everyone else up to this week?
So, What's Next?
With some of my larger crafty swaps coming to a close, I'm now able to focus in on some 'holiday sewing'. I sat down last night and made a list of all the things I wanted to make and realized it was HUGE. While I'm sure I won't be able to make everything, I'm sure going to try. Here's my list at the moment:
- Jalie 2805 in a white burnout fabric that I recently purchased. If it wasn't for the fact that I currently have black thread in my serger, I might have already made this one already.
- Hot Patterns's Classix Nouveau Dressy Jean . If I get really ambitious, I'd love to make Jalie's Stretch Jeans and compare the two.
- Amy Butler's Blossom Bag - I think I realize that this is one of those 'long weekend' projects and have procrastinated working on this one because I just haven't had the time to devote to it. Also on my list is her new pattern, Reversible Sunday Sling Bag.
- Jayhawk Tommy Boxers - I already have the lettering on all 3 shorts complete.....
- A hoodie for Taylor. I have yet to decide on a pattern or style, but would love to have one (or two) to place under the tree..... I even have fabric ready to go for this one.
- Melly & Me's Rudy - This pattern looks incredibly simple to construct although I need to buy the fabrics for this one. I'll definitely be making two before Christmas.
- Miscellaneous Christmas\Birthday gifts - While I'm not making a lot of gifts this year, I do plan on making a few aprons and a Happy Stacker Ring toy.
Linky Thursday
Buntings are an easy way to brighten up any room. The latest project at the Sewing Republic shows you how.
Call me a gaming geek, but I really want to make this plush Kirby. Maybe I'll make one for my brother-in-law who sports the same name.
Remember that book that I mentioned last week that made me want to take up crochet
Feeling ready to start making holiday decorations? Start off with these cute felt trees and a pretty holiday garland (while you're there, be sure to enter in a garland kit giveaway).
Snuggies are still hot. Learn how to make your own - just in time for gift giving.
They call it a Springy Bucket, but I think it would work for any season!
Renew life into your bike by making it a new seat!
Keep your little one warm with a handmade neckwarmer or scarf.
Love fabric, but afraid to buy it online? The new episode of Sew Forth is up and deals with this very topic!
Need a new bag? Here's a link to 10 free tote bag patterns and tutorials.
Small Swap
I hope setting the clocks back one hour (for everyone who participates) gave everyone a chance to do a bit more in the sewing department this weekend..... I know I did! I've actually been on a roll with completing projects for my Christmas Stocking swap. Before I show you my latest creation, I have a quick question for all you in Canada:
I just joined an International Snack Swap (also on Craftster) and my partner is from Canada. What snacks\treats\candies do we have that she might not be able to get a hold of? She's not into chocolates either. I've done some surfing and came up with a few items (Combos, Bugles, PayDay bars, Orbitz gum, Fruit Stripe gum) - is that correct? If worse comes to worse, I'm going to try to find some 'local' candies that might be unusual..... we went to the zoo yesterday and found some "Monkey Poo".
Getting back to my latest project:
Pinup Ornaments! These are very similar to the ones my partner had Wisted and I was thrilled to be able to find all the materials to make her something so close. For this particular project, I purchased Shrinky Dinks for Ink Jet Printers and a purchased PDF file of images from an Etsy seller, piddix.
Prepping the images for printing was a bit more work than what I expected. Initially, I figured that you just use your existing photo and you're good to go. However, it's important to lighten the image, etc. so it doesn't look like a big black blob when it shrinks down. It's also handy to have an original image of your photo handy when cutting out your shrinky dink paper - because you make it so light, it's difficult to see what you're doing. Of course, the fun part is watching your images shrink before your eyes. Unlike traditional Shrinky Dinks, the ink jet version of this product is opaque and I think might shrink down a little bit more as well.
The Cat Is The Hat
One more hat. I promise... at least for now. I couldn't help but make one more version of of the Sew Fun Fleece Animal Hats. Of all the versions I made the cat ears were probably the easiest to turn and I think lend itself to the most creative possibilities..... can you say Hello Kitty hat? Don't worry, I'm setting this pattern aside for awhile to work on some other projects.... Hello Kitty will have to wait.
Linky Thursday
I have long been a fan of Twinkie Chan's adorable crochet goodies. Last night, while at the bookstore I noticed she had a book out - Twinkie Chan's Crochet Goodies for Fashion Foodies
Speaking of books, I'm giddy Amy Sedaris' Simple Times: Crafts for Poor People
It's getting cold outside. Keep snuggly with these arm warmers.
Halloween may be over, but this Zilla Costume is too cute not to share (plus you could always have your child wear the jacket after the holiday).
Want to know what fabrics are coming down the pipe? True-Up has some sneak peeks on the blog for you to check out.
Even though I can't pull off the look, I love retro stylings. Learn how to make a 1950's headband and enter to win one for yourself!
Nothing says winter like bears in sweaters. Knit one up for yours before it snows.
Recycle a sweater and wear it as a hat!
I don't wear leggings anymore, but these ruched design make me want to try some out.
November is here which means snow days are right around the corner. Keep you child busy on cold days with fun games like this bean bag frog toss.
Sew What's New?
With all the Halloween costume sewing going on, I haven't talked about much else in the sewing department. So what else have I been up to? Well first off look at this cool little gem that I found last week..... a UK sewing magazine (this is their second issue) called Homestyle Sewing - it even came with a 'sewing pack' of fabrics, ribbons, thread and buttons. I was a bit hesitant to pick it up since the sewing is a bit more 'folksy' than what I tend to make, but those little babushka dolls, a set of slippers, and a Lisa Lam reversible bag pattern made me want to buy it. I wasn't disappointed either, it is a very cute magazine!
I've also done a bit of fabric shopping as well. I recently bought some of Fabric.com's burnout jersey with the intention of making myself a shirt (and maybe one for Taylor too).... if you can believe it, I still don't own one of these style shirts (and it seems like they've been popular for ages) so I'm just going to sew a style that I like. While I was there, I put a few yards of Michael Miller's Dalmation Stripe jersey into my cart. Finding a wide, black strip knit is hard to come by and I have been dreaming about doing some fun t-shirt recons with it.
I also went by Needle Nook Fabrics over the weekend for some 'swap' supplies. Instead of sticking with my list (just some stretch lace), I wound up bringing home some cheetah heart french terry. I think Taylor might like a pair of lounge pants with them and they totally remind me of something Victoria Secret Pink might carry. Of course, that means I need to find the time to sew all these things up!
What have you all been up to lately?
Happy Halloween
Since I finished up Halloween before the 'big day' I actually had time to sew up something 'extra'..... Hot Patterns/Fabric.com's Witch Hat! This pattern was incredibly easy to sew up - perfect for even a beginner and went together surprisingly fast (under an hour)! Since I went with a lightweight material, wound up using a heavy-weight fusible and woven interfacing to crisp it up, although I think it could still be a bit more firm because it eventually flops over after you wear it. In addition to some glittery dot ribbon around the brim, I added a flower and some spiders that I glittered up a few days ago (using spray adhesive and black fine glitter - it was a fun, but messy project).
Now it's time to carve some pumpkins, roast some seeds, and 'sample' some candy. I hope everyone has a Happy Halloween!
Linky Thursday
It's not too late to whip up a costume for Halloween. This tutorial for an fantastic looking Mad Hatter top hat seems like it could sew up in an afternoon.
Through the Needle is a free, online magazine that's designed to inspire. The second issue is out and available for download (you can also purchase a hard copy at Hancock Fabrics).
I am in LOVE with the latest issue of Ottobre - what a perfect excuse to make something from it by entering a project into their design contest.
Learn how to carve beautiful pumpkins.
A sewing room decoration you don't have to take down after Halloween - pumpkin pincushions.
Create a cute, poufy petty skirt to go with your costume.
Win a copy of One Yard Wonders.
If you're looking something a bit spookier to adorn your door, check out this Spooky Skeleton Wreath - awesome!
Planning on being Lady Gaga this Halloween? Learn how to make your own "hair bow".
I love those 'cookies in a jar' projects - especially when they include pretty bows, cute toppers, and fun labels.
Need a trick-or-treat bag as cute as your costume? Whip up a sweet, little candy corn tote.
Win a copy of Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders.
A Ghost Cape - something that I've never thought of making, but is a brilliant idea!
Just Call Me Martha
This weekend, I was very 'domestic': I cooked several labor intensive meals, tackled the mountain of laundry that had accumulated, and even took in some sewing. I did everything but..... blog (sorry about that). Now that I'm done, my sewing room looks like something out of Breakfast at Tiffanys - there are 'little black dress' aprons all over.
Although all of them are sewn the same, one has a bit more 'bling' than the others. The buyer had requested it have a bit more 'umph' to it - so I used an iron-on rhinestone trim that I had purchased from Fabric.com. Although I like the end effect, I'm not sure how the trim will hold up in the end since there are a few rhinestones already missing. Now, it's time to concentrate on Halloween sewing - there's only 13 more days left!
Linky Thursday
Gourds you don't have to worry about rotting: Sew New's Pumpkin Patch (as featured in their latest issue) and Schlosser Designs fabric pumpkins.
Getting chilly? Sew up some Pocket Hand Warmers to keep your fingers toasty!
Cake Pops - I must win this book!
You don't have to rake these leaves.... Wool felt potholders to dress up your table.
Learn how to create a 'scrappy pumpkin' t-shirt using Transfer Artist Paper.
A cute "Spooky Letter Garland" to dress up your mantle.
I'm terrible at hand sewing. If you're like me, here's a few tips that could help get you started.
Make a superhero mask for your little one.
I'm usually not much for scarflettes, but I LOVE this version. Not only is it super easy, but I adore those extra large buttons.
Shy away from working with velvet? Linda Lee has a few tips to sew this material successfully.
Win a $25 gift certificate to put toward fabric!
Visit Sew, Mama, Sew for a slew of giveaways this week including a Deluxe Baby and Newborn Gift Set, Pea Pod carrier, and free reversible baby bonnet tutorial.
Budding ballerina? Make her a tutu - this version is quick and easy.
The Cuter Book Winner
And the winner of the Cuter Book Giveaway is...... Comment #7: Ruta! If you send me your mailing info, I'll be happy to ship it your way. If you didn't win this time around, stay tuned for more giveaways in the coming soon!
The Floral Stripe
Along with some of the other aprons I've made lately, this floral, pleated stripe is destined for a new home. After having put aside this pattern for awhile and then working with it again, I've realized that I still have a bit of tweeking to do with it, but if all goes well, I'll have a pattern up for sale around the holidays (crossing fingers).