SewChic

Three Knit Scarves

2012-01-17T23:58:00.001-06:00

Red Scarf
Pattern: Drop Stitch Scarf
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft

I finished it yesterday, and wore it today.

Lovin' my new scarf!

(not-so-great pictures -- taken on my phone)

Green Scarf
This green scarf is also the same drop-stitch pattern, knit in October 2011 for a gift. I used Knit Picks Swish Tonal yarn and let me tell you, it was a dream to knit with. Beautiful yarn!

Black Scarf
The third scarf is one I made my son for Christmas. The pattern is called the Manly Scarf #7. Really. I think there must be manly scarves #'s 1 through 6, and maybe more....I didn't pursue it. But #7 is a winner because it was a fun pattern to knit, and my son wears his scarf all the time on these cold days. The yarn is Knit Picks Swish Worsted.

Yea for scarves! I love knitting and wearing them during the winter months.

Happy knitting, happy sewing, happy whatever hobby you're enjoying. :)
Ruth

Christmas Wedding

2012-01-10T01:11:00.006-06:00

It has been 2 weeks since Katie was married! Two weeks already, and I meant to post a few pictures before now. I now have 3 married daughters--I can't believe it when I think about it. The girls are still my babies, but now the oldest 3 are married and all grown up.

The wedding was beautiful, and Katie was a lovely bride. I thought I'd share some snapshots of the decorations. Because the church was still decorated for Christmas with a tree and poinsettias, Katie decided to go with a red berry theme for her decorations.

Berries on the candelabras, on the pew bows, on the bird cage card holder, berries on the cake, and berries in the table centerpieces....it was simply delightful. By the way, the centerpieces were upturned glass goblets with red tea lights on the top and berries and greenery underneath, and the idea came from Pinterest. Gotta love Pinterest for great ideas!

Oh, one last thing, I still want to round up some pictures to show you of my youngest daughter and my 2 granddaughters wearing their wedding finery, especially since this is a sewing blog and Jessica and I sewed the dresses. Another post for another day....

blessings,
Ruth

Two Flower Girl Dresses

2012-01-09T23:21:00.005-06:00

Finally, here is the finished dress I made my 6-year-old daughter for her sister's wedding. The pattern is New Look 6065, size 3 width with a size 5 length.

I also sewed this next dress for my 19-month-old granddaughter. My other granddaughter's dress was sewn by her mommy, Jessica, who I hope will post pictures too.

Tavi's dress is a McCall's 6268, views C and D combined. The pattern comes in sizes S, M, L, and XL. I made a size XL, and it fit perfectly. I used the same crepe backed satin as Emily's dress, with the matte side as the right side. For the sleeve bindings and the bloomers, I used the satin on the outside.

Take a look at the beautiful flower that Jessica made for Tavi's dress. Somehow or another she cut the flower petals out of satin and melted the edges. If you're interested, I'm sure Jessica can tell you how she made the flowers. Yes, flowers--she made 4 total--one for each of the 3 flower girls' hair, and one for the front of Tavi's dress.

The three flower girls each wore these sweet little blue beaded bracelets that I made. (I'm almost afraid to admit it, but I think I want another hobby--beading. These bracelets are simply beads strung on elastic thread, but oh, they were so fun to make. And now I want to make more. And more elaborate. Oh, the fun I could have if I decide to take up beading!)

Once I get them from the wedding photographer, I will post pictures of the girls wearing their lacy dresses. Can you believe I didn't take ANY photos with my camera?!

Blessings,
Ruth

Neat Containers Winner

2011-11-29T09:39:00.005-06:00

Congratulations to Goosegirl of comment #12. You are the winner of the Neat Containers giveaway!

Goosegirl said: "I would love any of them. But I think I would really love the shoe kit combo pack. I keep all of my sewing notions in clear plastic shoe boxes, so I can see what is in there. But they are all cracked and broken and I need to replace them. These look so cool! Thank you for the chance."

Send me your mailing address and these will get shipped out to you. :)

Thank you to everyone who posted an entry for the giveaway. I enjoyed reading all your comments.

Ruth

Flower Girl Dress: New Look 6065

2011-11-20T21:44:00.006-06:00

Wedding plans are coming along. Katie is getting married in 40-something days. I finally finished Emily's flower girl dress, and I'm ready now to start Tavi's dress.

For this dress, I used New Look 6065. Funny thing, Emily is 6, but I made the size 3 pattern with the size 5 length. The dress fits her perfectly, skinny thing. I practically did a happy dance when my invisible zipper went in almost perfectly the first time. Okay, it's a smidgeon off (see waist band) but not enough for me to get uptight about. I decided to leave it. :)

Pattern changes: I added gathers to the front bodice by adding 3-4 inches to the width of the front bodice piece. I also added length and a lace-edged lining to the skirt; the dress is almost floor length. Pictures will come, but probably not until after the wedding when Emily is dressed up and has her hair combed. :)

Thanks for reading!
Ruth

Neat Containers Giveaway

2011-11-13T10:14:00.006-06:00

Whew! De-cluttering and organizing my sewing room has been a bigger job than I anticipated (why do I let it get this cluttered?!), and I've made little progress. Some, but not much. :/ I'll spare you the details of how bad it is right now (I think the process of cleaning sometimes makes the room look worse than it really is), but I do want to tell you about Neat Containers.

Here is a picture of some of my piles of this-and-that (oh, I confess, I do have more piles!)

And this picture shows the start of my transfer of the piles to the Neat Containers.

So yes, I'm slowly making progress. (Applause is appropriate here.) :)

I am using my set of containers in my sewing room, and I'm still working on filling them up. (And believe me, I have plenty of craft and sewing stuff to fill them all---really, I should de-stash!) The biggest size (shown in the middle) would be great for 12"x12" scrapbooking paper. I could see these containers nicely used totally for scrapbooking and rubber stamping supplies. (Does anybody still rubber stamp?!) I also think they would work wonderfully in a closet filled with belts, purses, scarves, socks, shoes, and so on.

Let me tell you what I love about the Neat Containers. They are clear--easy to see what's inside. They are stackable, and what's really cool is that you can pull them out kind of like a drawer and the rest of the stack does not fall over or collapse. The containers are easy to assemble, and the configuration can be changed easily at any time. Mostly, I love that my assorted supplies will all be in one place, easy to see at a glance, and readily available for use.

Now onto what you've been waiting for:
The Giveaway!!!

Neat Containers has graciously offered one of Sew Chic's readers (that's you!!!) a combo set of their wonderful storage containers.

To enter, you must:
1. Have a U.S. shipping address and not a PO box. (Sorry, but no international addresses).

2. Go to http://www.neatcontainers.com and browse around.

3. Comment on this post and tell me which Neat Container product you would like and how you would use it.

I will randomly draw a winner on November 27th. The winner will receive the small combo set pictured below.

Weekend Plans

2011-11-02T22:55:00.006-05:00

Plans for this coming weekend--sew Emily's flower girl dress!

But first, I must straighten up the clutter in my sewing room. I'd show you a picture of what it currently looks like, but I'd be too embarrassed for you to see the piles. :/

Look what came in the mail this past weekend...Neat Containers...just in time for my organizing of the sewing room messes!

I was so excited when the representative at Neat Containers.com contacted me about reviewing these containers since I'm always on the lookout for something to organize and contain the little bits of this and that that, tools and gadgets, spools and ribbons, needles and whatnot.

You should get excited, too, because Neat Containers is going to give away one combo kit of these containers for one Sew Chic reader. Be watching...I'll announce the giveaway in a week or two. :) In the meantime, check out neatcontainers.com to see all the ways you can get organized.

Okay, wish me luck as I tackle the sewing room. I really must get these flower girl dresses sewn!

Wedding Sewing

2011-10-24T13:59:00.005-05:00

My 3rd daughter, Katie, is getting married in December! Plans are coming along. My next sewing project will be to make 2 flower girl dresses--one for Emily and one for my granddaughter in Switzerland who is 1 year old. Jessica will make Marie's dress. Yes, there will be three flower girls, and they will look adorable, I'm sure!

We choose ivory lace and ivory crepe fabric for the dresses, and will use the matte side as the right side. I'm excited to get started...now if school and music could be put on hold, I just might find time to sew!

Ruth

Good times:

making the silk flower bouquets,
corsages, and boutonnieres
with sweet friends!

Simplicity 2377

2011-10-16T18:20:00.001-05:00

I spent some time in my sewing room this weekend and made Emily this dress. I've missed sewing, and it sure did feel nice! Emily has grown so much this past summer, and she definitely needs some new clothes. I would like to find an aqua-colored, long-sleeve t-shirt for layering when the weather gets cold.

The pattern: Simplicity 2377, size 8

The fabric: baby corduroy

The color: mostly purple--Emily's favorite color, so it's a winner!

Ruth

Congratulations, Sandy!

2011-10-15T00:21:00.000-05:00

The winner of the Sharp Crochet Hook is Sandy, who wrote:

"I have lots of baby blankets to make (I know 5 or 6 pregnant ladies!) so I would definitely make some flannel blankets with crocheted edgings like you did! Thank you for the giveaway :)"

Congratulations, Sandy! Email your mailing address to me, and Jessica of Sharp Crochet Hook will send you a hook. Thank you to all who commented, and thank you, Jessica, for your generosity.

If you did not win the hook, you can buy one from sharpcrochethook.com. By the way, the hook includes directions for three edging patterns like these pictured below. Beautiful!

Crochet-Edged Blanket and Hook Giveaway

2011-10-01T13:06:00.002-05:00

Sharp Crochet Hook Review

Over 4 years ago I posted this tutorial on how I make crochet-edged baby blankets. Sarah left a comment on that post, writing, "Thanks for this! How do you poke your crochet hook through the fabric? Mine is just too dull to get the job done. Is there a special sharp hook you can use?" Up until today, my reply would have been that I just use an ordinary size 8 steel crochet hook and keep wiggling the tip until it goes through the fabric.

Today my reply would be this: Go to sharpcrochethook.com and order one of the sharp, pointy crochet hooks!

This week I tried out the sharp crochet hook on the pictured baby blanket, and yes, the hook really is pointed and easily poked through my flannel fabric. I was able to crochet round 1 of the blanket more quickly with this hook than with my normal, blunt tip hook. Now I did find that I still had to wiggle the hook a bit, but only because I wanted to ensure that the hook went between the fibers of fabric without tearing the fibers. All in all, I'm pleased with this pointed hook and will definitely use it on all my baby blankets.

For your chance to win a free sharp crochet hook, leave a comment on this post telling me what you would make if you owned your very own Sharp Crochet Hook. If I draw your name, Jessica, at sharp crochet hook, will generously send you one! My sewing and posting has been so sporadic of late, but I'll close this giveaway in a week or so. In the meantime, go to Jessica's site and watch the video on how simple it is to crochet an edging on your own baby blankets.

Ruth

Irresistible

2011-09-28T07:06:00.003-05:00

Who can resist when a little girl tells her mommy in a sweet voice that she really, really, really wants a purple scarf? Yes, I just had to knit Emily a scarf of her very own, and I let her choose the yarn. Purple. Of course. With sparkles. Of course. She's six, and purple is her favorite color. Add some sparkle, and her heart overflows with happiness. Yes, dear, darling daughter....your wish is my command. :)

UFO's and I'm Back!

2011-09-06T22:28:00.007-05:00

There's nothing like having the county fair roll around to spur me on to finish a few projects. I don't have as much to exhibit this year as in past years, but I did manage to complete a few items this month.

First is this quilt...made for my daughter's 21st birthday in December 2010. Well, I gave her the quilt top for her birthday, had it quilted 7 months later in July, and then finally sewed on the binding yesterday.

The quilt is sewn from vintage sheets, made in much the same way as this quilt that Jessica and I made in 2009. Katie loved the first quilt so much that she requested one for her 21st birthday. Well, late is better than never....she'll receive the finished quilt only 9 months late. :)

the back of the quilt

This month I also finished a few knitting projects. The red sweater is the Featherweight Cardigan knit with lace-weight yarn. I started this in April 2011 and finished knitting it only 2 and 1/2 months later. It took another 2 months before I blocked it. (That's okay--it's been too hot in Oklahoma to wear a sweater anyway). :/

Lastly, I completed this scarf, started in March of 2010 and finished in September 2011. It's knit with sock yarn and tiny needles with a lace pattern...a challenge for me. No wonder it took me 17 months to finish it.

It feels good to be blogging again. It's been way too long since I've posted anything. It's been way too long since I've sewed anything. I hope to be back more faithfully! Did you miss me?

Ruth :)

Pottery Barn Quilt pt. 2 and OttLite winner

2011-08-17T14:42:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to our OttLite giveaway winner, Dana, from Country Heart and Home. Random.org picked comment number 68 and it was her!!

I'm continuing to work on the "pottery barn" quilt I'm designing for my friend. Our inspiration started with this bumper pad that was purchased off of ebay:

She wanted these flower/trees to be used in the quilt design along with lots of hand embroidery, minky, and a piece of pottery barn sheet fabric she loved.

Here are my paper tree patterns, numbered so I could remember the placement once I got them cut out of the fabrics!

Next are my tree appliques cut out and ready to be ironed onto the fabric and machine appliqued around the edges. Since these pictures I've gotten all the quilt top pieces sewn together and I've been working on the embroidery on the trees. I'll definitely be showing more pictures as I finish it up!

August has been a super busy month for me, with sewing several quilts, wedding and baby shower gifts. I'm trying not to get overwhelmed, but to enjoy the rush of deadlines and savor being in my sewing room again.

More bound-edged tea towels...these were a wedding present for a sweet bride who is doing her kitchen in pink and green!

Earlier in the month I finished off 4 new baby quilts for my etsy shop...haven't gotten them up yet, but hopefully soon! I'm getting ready for the Dustbowl Arts Market again in 2 weeks, so I'm hoping they will sell before I have a chance to get them on etsy. =)

Marie wanted to be in the photo shoot...she's so silly!

~Blessings, Jessica

OttLite Review and GIVEAWAY!

2011-08-02T15:46:00.002-05:00

Raise your hand if you've heard about OttLite. Anyone? If you are like me, you've heard lots of amazing things about these "natural sun lamps", but just haven't taken the jump to buy yourself one. So...you keep on sewing and crafting with poor lighting, not realizing what a huge difference having good quality light actually makes to your work and comfort.

OttLite lighting is expertly engineered with 508 technology to bring the quality of High Definition Natural Lighting™ indoors, providing the ideal balance of brightness and contrast.

The result is reduced glare, less eyestrain, and low heat. OttLite understands that color, detail and comfort are critical to doing the stuff you love.

OttLite helps you do what you love longer and offers a 100% delighted guarantee!

(The Tulip comes in different colors and combines elegance and designer style with incredible light!)

OttLite generously sent me the Tulip lamp to review and offer as a giveaway here. They have an entire line of craft lamps that are available on their website.

Here's photos of my workspace before and after.

(Note the little IKEA desk lamp I normally use. It always create such harsh shadows.)

(Here the Tulip OttLite functions as a mini torchiere lamp, providing great ambient light for the whole area.)

(I love how the lamp pulls up and out of the base to angle directly where I need the most light.)

I personally didn't realize how much I was straining my eyes until I turned on my OttLite! I keep my laptop in my sewing room, and when I turn on the Tulip, I'm more comfortable and am able to work longer with less eye strain. I love how this particular lamp give ambiant light to the whole room, yet has a flexible neck for direct task lighting...this week it came in really handy as I was doing some machine quilting, and then hand sewing the binding on.

To enter to win your own Tulip OttLite, simply leave a comment telling me why or how you could use it.

Additional entries:

Become a fan on OttLite on Facebook and leave a comment to let me know!

Share this giveaway on your blog (or on facebook) and leave a comment with the link!

The winner will be drawn and notified next week on Tuesday the 9th!

Jessica

quilt designing...

2011-07-29T22:06:00.001-05:00

I'm working on a custom quilt right now for a friend. She wants a pottery barn-esq baby quilt with flower appliques, white chenille squares, and colored thread stitching and embroidery. This is the design we've come up with so far.

The solid white areas are for a floral print that is still to be finalized. We were excited to find pottery barn fabrics on etsy...hopefully one of them will be perfect!

Marie has been raiding my closet again! This time my thrift-store red heels (yes, an impulse purchase that I have nothing to wear them with!) with her blue Easter dress.

She reminds me of Dorthey from the Wizard of Oz!

Be sure and check back here early next week...we're going to be hosting a review and giveaway with OttLite. I'm sure you'll want the chance to win your own natural sunlight lamp!

Blessings,

Jessica

Summer Snapshot Update

2011-07-21T21:41:00.001-05:00

(Elliot was so excited when he discovered he could cut a piece of construction paper into the shape of our state! Most mornings he eats his toast into the Oklahoma shape.)

(A cuddly quilt for a good friend's new baby. Fabrics are "It's a Hoot" by MoMo, combined with pink minky and vintage hobnail chenille.)

(My lil' sister, Katie got engaged this month! Aren't they cutie-pies?? And no, we're not making the wedding dress...she found an absolutely gorgeous one already! Can't wait to see her in it!)

(Cowboy burp cloths for my sister-in-law's baby boy...this has been a summer of babies!)

(Marie wearing my tennis shoes around the house...she's my baby doll!)

(Sew Chic boutique nursing covers are now available in my etsy shop!)

(It's been a hot, hot, dry summer here...we are praying for rain and surviving by staying indoors, only venturing out to go to the splash pad or library storytime.)

(Last month we went out to visit my Great-Aunt Helen. I love this this lady and am so blessed every time we get to go visit her. She and her brothers and sisters are a precious picture of what it looks like to grow older in the Lord with grace, faith, and lots of laughter!)

(My kids are such goons!)

(And I don't know what I'd do without them!!)

(That's all for now, folks!)

Jessica

Bound Edged Tea Towel Tutorial

2011-07-19T15:21:00.001-05:00

Saturday I needed a quick gift for a wedding shower at church the next day. I just wanted to do something simple and had a pack of plain tea towels on hand. hmmm....

Mom had made me a couple of simple bound edged tea towels for my birthday several years ago and I LOVE them. She made them to match my kitchen curtains, but I use them to cover up my sewing machines...because... well if I used them in the kitchen, they'd get ruined, you know!

Here's quick tutorial in case you want to make some up for yourself!

I edged two sides of my towels. Start by cutting two long stripes about 2 inches wide and several inches longer then the towel edge you wish to bind. Fold over 1/4 inch and press one side of each long strip.

Next, line your raw edge of the long strip against the towel about 1/4 inches from the edge of the towel with the right side of your fabric facing the wrong side of the towel. The folded edge you just ironed should be toward the left. Stitch it in place about 1/4 inches from the raw edge of the fabric (about 1/2 inches from the edge of the towel).

Once that's sewn, press the fabric strip open...it's looking pretty!

After pressing, flip the towel over, turn down the top and bottom raw edges that hang over a couple inches and then fold the pre-pressed edge over onto your stitching line that was just sewn, creating a smooth corner. Pin along the length if necessary.

Finally, use a medium zig-zag stitch and sew the folded edge down, backstitching at the top and bottom.

That's it! You're finished!

Blessings,

Jessica

Simplicity 2767

2011-06-02T15:15:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Sewing Sanity, the winner of the Signature Styles book giveaway! Random.org picked comment number 37, and it was her! Thanks to everyone who commented...I hope you've enjoyed our recent book reviews and giveaways as much as I have.

I'm sad that it's been a while since I've contributed regularly to this blog...sewing is becoming more and more of a luxury with two little ones, and blogging about the sewing I do get a chance to do is even more difficult...I'll share a couple pictures from Easter and then I've got to run!

Marie's Easter dress is Simplicity 2767 It was slightly more difficult then your average pattern with the curved yoke and bubble skirt, but I felt like the unique design elements made it worth it. My only regret was that I used cheap material and the dress doesn't feel as nice as I was expecting...it wrinkles badly and has a slightly rough, cheap texture. Oh well, I guess that's what happens when you order from fabric.com and can't touch and feel before you buy.

I think this skirt is the only thing I've sewn for myself recently...random piece of fabric from Mom's stash...no pattern...just a simple gathered skirt attached to a curved waistband/yoke with an invisible zipper on the side. It sort of has a retro, vintage look to it that I like. I love simple skirts in the summer!

Until next time...
Jessica

Signature Styles Book Review and Giveaway!

2011-05-17T21:04:00.001-05:00

Since Mom and I started this blog (over 5 years ago!) there has been a huge online explosion of sewing blogs and crafty inspiration. I've definitely made the rounds on the internet reading various sewing and craft blogs, and over the years I've cheered as some of my favorite craft bloggers have grown in their styles and made careers for themselves with published books, patterns, and fabric lines. The amount of inspiration and creativity out there is amazing....and sometimes dizzying!

Signature Styles by Jenny Doh takes 20 such amazingly talented women and gives the reader a glimpse into their creative stories as they've forged their own styles and created a handmade career for themselves. Each chapter is basically a tour of her studio and life, and features lots of cool tibits about the essence of that crafter's personal style, techniques she's known for, and how she got to the place she is at now. I especially love how this book blends fashion and crafting, showing how each artist creates her personal style with her crafts and by the way she dresses.

There are lots of gorgeous photos to drool over...

At the end of each chapter is an exclusive project from that particular crafter....lots of fun accessory items, bags, clothing, and even an adorable pair of baby pants!

If you've ever wanted a peek into a fellow crafter's life and find out what inspires and drives them to create, then this is the book for you! Lark Crafts has graciously offered me a copy of Signature Styles to review and one to give away. Leave a comment and share who or what inspires you to create and craft...this can be something personal from your own life or just a link to another craft blog that you love!

I'll draw a winner next Tuesday...one week from today.

Cheers!

Jessica

Signature Styles Book Review and Giveaway Coming Soon!

2011-05-08T22:12:00.000-05:00

oooh, we have another book review and giveaway coming soon...can't wait to share with you!!

Check back sometime at the end of next week... for Signature Styles

Blessings,
Jessica

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T22:07:00.001-05:00

So thankful for my Mom...thankful we are friends and sewing buddies.

Love you, Mom!

"No girl can ever truly appreciate her mother until she has children of her own and find herself loving, planning, sacrificing for them. Then she can understand how her mother felt and will be grateful and humble and appreciative in proportion."

Mary Brooks Picken from Vintage Notions

Simplicity 2692 Revisited

2011-05-03T22:55:00.002-05:00

Recently I made a dress for Ellen from the same pattern I had used for the bridesmaid dress I sewed this past January. Ellen picked out the gauze fabric at Hancock's and persuaded me to make this dress for Easter. The dress went together quickly this second time around, and we were both excited and pleased about the finished garment. As much as Ellen likes this dress, I can guarantee that it will be worn a lot this summer. :)

You can read a full review of the dress here.

Ruth

(Sorry about the fuzzy pictures. I don't yet know how to use the new lens on my camera.)

Simple Skirt Finished! and Giveaway Winner Announced!

2011-04-10T17:27:00.006-05:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in the book giveaway. The winner of Purses, Bags, & More book is AndreaK who said, "Happy Birthday and I hope you are able to get some sewing in today. Thanks for the giveaway-purses are so fun!" Andrea, I do not see your email address on your site, so please email your mailing address to me. (sewchicblog at gmail dot com)

Thank you for all the birthday wishes. I had a wonderful birthday, and I even found time in my sewing room for a few hours. I finished a skirt for myself. The fabric came from Jessica as did the ready-to-wear brown top that matches perfectly. The pattern is McCall's 3830: a simple but classic skirt with front and back darts, faced waistband, and zipper closure.

Ruth

Birthday Giveaway

2011-04-02T07:00:00.001-05:00

Today is my birthday, and to celebrate I am giving away a copy of the book mentioned in my previous post. If you're interested in Purses, Bags, & More, leave a comment here to be entered in the giveaway. The drawing will take place in one week on April 9th; the winner will be chosen randomly.

Today I plan to spend some time in my sewing room. It's been too long since I've sewn, and I do miss it. The busy-ness of life has a way of pushing out the things I enjoy most, like sewing. I'll let you know if I accomplish anything today. :)

Happy sewing,
Ruth

Purses, Bags, & More - Book Review

2011-03-24T07:59:00.010-05:00

If you've read this blog for any length of time, you know that I enjoy sewing purses and bags on occasion. So when I was asked to be part of a blog tour introducing Clotilde's new book, Purses, Bags, & More, I was glad to participate.

Purses, Bags, & More is a 48-page book featuring 10 fabulous projects designed by Pearl Louise Krush. I like that all the purses in the book are unique in style and design. The instructions appear to be clearly written, detailed, and easy to understand with helpful illustrations. No actual pattern pieces are given, but dimensions are given for each piece needed to complete each project. I think that beginning and advanced sewers alike would have great success sewing any of these 10 purses.

The "On The Town" bag is a cute patchwork bag, oblong in size, with some neat details including the contrast "flange" strip and the tie closure. I especially like the gathered side panels and the handles that look like they're buttoned on. The instructions for the bag are concisely written with orderly steps to create the patchwork and bag assembly.

Purses, Bags, & More is available here as a hard copy and AND also as a PDF download if you just can't wait to receive your copy in the mail. Follow the blog tour to read more about other projects in this great new book.

Day 1 (Mar 21): Tara of Tinkerfrog
Day 2 (Mar 22): Cindy of Sew Blessed
Day 3 (Mar 23): Stephanie of Unfinished Sewing Projects
Day 4 (Mar 24): Ruth (me!) of SewChic
Day 5 (Mar 25): Julie of From These Hands

Rambling, Until Later

2011-03-16T21:34:00.004-05:00

Today I attempted to sew. Happy day! Even though I didn't get much more done than cut out the pattern, at least I made it up to my sewing room. It's been a good but busy week so far. Tomorrow I have an oboe lesson...another good thing...and I hope to do some more sewing, maybe even start the skirt I cut out today.

On another note, recently I added a few more sets of pattern weights to my Etsy shop, and today one set was included in a "treasury" made by Lynn Minney Designs. Thanks, Lynn! Isn't this collection pretty? I like the primary colors of the images.

Okay, I'm rambling. Until later,
Ruth

Pattern Winners!

2011-03-14T20:47:00.009-05:00

We have two winners!!!

After I copied and pasted the comments into a Word document (automatic numbering!), removed the deleted comments and duplicate comments, there remained 102. Wow, and thank you to everyone who commented! :) I used Random.org to choose two winners.

Okay, ta da...drum roll....

The first winner is #18, Alisa, of Making More with Less. She will receive the pattern for the Victory Bags. Take a look at Alisa's beautiful quilts on her blog that she shares with her sister.

The Crossover Carry-All Bag pattern will go to #37, Dawn of (4:35 am). Dawn's blog has been so inspirational to me with her beautiful photography and crafting...oh,and you should see the awesome smocking she does!

So, Alisa and Dawn, we will mail your patterns to you after we get your mailing addresses. Again, thank you to everyone who commented.

blessings,
Ruth and Jessica

Purse Pattern Giveaway Ends Soon

2011-03-09T19:13:00.004-06:00

I had hoped to sew the Crossover Carry-All bag pattern from Indygo Junction before ending the giveaway (previous post), but it just isn't going to happen. Well, maybe I still have time....we'll see...but just so you know, the last day to leave a comment on the giveaway post will be in 4 days on Sunday, March 13th.

The drawing will be for two patterns, Victory Bags and the Crossover Carry-All, and they will be given to two different readers. So, if you haven't already done so, go comment on this post here. Spread the word---there are only 4 days left to comment.

Ruth

A New Purse and a Pattern Giveaway

2011-03-03T07:00:00.003-06:00

NOTE: Comments are now closed for the giveaway.

"Victory Bags" from Indygo Junction by Amy Barickman

Pattern Description:
From the pattern back: A pair of stylish shoulder bags with a 1940s wartime influence. The Victory Bags are constructed with a set-in gusset base and are a sensible size for everyday use. Both styles include instructions for an internal zippered or patch pocket.

Pattern Sizing: one size: The bags measure approximately 14” wide x 11” high x 3” deep at the base, excluding shoulder strap.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes. I sewed View A with the buttons. View B sports a buckle.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were well-written with clear, helpful illustrations. The only thing I found lacking was a pattern layout diagram. Because of the many pieces, a layout diagram would have been helpful.

Error on pattern piece G: pattern piece says to cut 2 from interfacing; only 1 is needed.

The gussets were surprisingly easy to sew. I expected to have to re-do the gussets at least once, but they came together just right and on the first try. Again, great instructions!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I like the style and size of this purse. The gussets at the purse bottom make for a roomy inner compartment. The purse is easy to sew, but yet the details of the design make it interesting. I also like that the purse has a magnetic snap closure under the front flap. The 3 buttons are for just for show. :)

Fabric Used:
Exterior: I used a piece of home decor fabric--a heavy twill, I think--a typical home decorating fabric with a mod leave print on a lime green background.

Interior: A cotton quilting fabric from my stash. The bag also has an inner lining of Pellon fleece. The strap and front flap are also interfaced with fusible interfacing.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
The only change I made was to add a second pocket to the purse interior. The pattern gives great instructions on how to make a zippered pocket; my bag has both the zippered pocket and the added second patch pocket.

Conclusion:
I love, love, love this pattern. It's the perfect size purse, and I can imagine making several in various fabrics...change the fabric and you get a whole new look..cute and trendy, sleek or classic...just imagine the possibilities! I will definitely make this pattern again, but next time in View B.

Ruth

Okay, if you've read this far, here is the information about the pattern giveaway! Sew Chic will be giving away two purse patterns from Indygo Junction, complements of Amy Barickman, owner and founder of Indygo Junction. The two purse patterns are: Victory Bags (reviewed above), and Cross-Over Carryall, another great pattern I hope to sew up soon.

To enter, go to the Indygo Junction site and browse the shop. Then come back here and leave a comment on this post answering the following question: If you were to buy one item from Indygo Junction, what would it be?

Be sure to leave your email address so we have a way to contact you if your name is drawn.

Note, because of shipping costs, this giveaway is open only to people with addresses in the United States and Canada. We're sorry that this is closed to our international readers.

In a week or two, we will choose 2 winners for the 2 patterns. The first winner will receive her choice of the 2 patterns, and the second winner will receive the 2nd pattern.

Now, go to Indygo Junction and have fun browsing all the fabulous patterns! :)
happy sewing,
Ruth and Jessica

Vintage Notions Book Review...giveaway on Thursday!

2011-03-01T22:22:00.007-06:00

Vintage Notions, by Amy Barickman...I was so blessed to receive a copy of this lovely book to review...so excited to share a bit of her book with you, my readers!

Truly a delight for lovers of all things vintage, this book is much, much more than your typical craft project book (although it does contain sewing patterns and projects!). Basically, in a nutshell, it's a compilation of the vintage fashion and magazine articles from the early 1900's. It is chock full of recipes, household tips, inspirational quotes and poems, advice for friendship and relationships...and it is simply filled with lovely illustrations and vintage fashions. Delightful!

Vintage Notions is a celebration of the beauty and joy to be found in the womanly arts of homemaking, decorating, fashion sewing, and cooking...this would be an excellent book to share with a special friend...or to treat yourself with if you are in need of some household inspiration and encouragement!

Oh, did I mention that this is a large book...240 pages...there is definitely enough inspiration here to last a year at least!

I have always loved old things...I have many memories of antique shopping trips with my grandmother. She taught me to appreciate the beauty of the past and I loved hearing her stories and paging through her albums of black and white photos, asking "who's this" again and again.

This book brought back a lot of those memories...memories of my grandma, (she would love this book!) and memories of the ideals and romantic notions of my teenage years. Ideals that have sadly gotten shoved to the back of my mind as I've grown up and taken on new responsibilities...the busyness of life has a way of making one forget about the important things, doesn't it?

I think I'd forgotten the dignity, joy and meaning that can and should be derived from creative home arts...making good food for my family, playing outside with my kids, indulging in sewing something for myself, reaching out in friendship to the people God has placed in my life...all of these things are important and the enjoyment of them shouldn't be neglected in the craziness of life.

I think this vintage quote from the book sums up what I'm trying to say...

(pg. 96)

"I could not help thinking what the day means to me. It is always like a new piece of cloth to use in the best way that I know. Material means so much to me--its texture, color, width, and purpose--that even if it is only a kitchen curtain or a cloth for dish toweling, it has its use and should be cut and made the best way I know so that it may give the greatest satisfaction and comfort.

And our lives are as a day. We must make them fruitful. How? By total unselfishness. Selfish people often have comforts that the unselfish do not have, but they never possess the same quantity of rightness and happiness....

A woman, according to her love and energy, has a great responsibility

in making her home an abode of peace, a place of protection from the winds of the world,

a castle for her love, and a shrine to womanliness."

The book contains 12 different "magic patterns", original projects from the early 1900's. Patterns include several different apron styles, a cape, purses, several different styles of loungewear and nightwear and more.

I love the vintage fashion illustrations scattered throughout the book! The book is divided into monthly sections and each section contains seasonally appropriate fashion, beauty tips, recipes and more.

Amy Barickman, the author of Vintage Notions is also the owner and founder of Indigo Junction Patterns...go check them out...Thursday we will be hosting a review of one of her purse patterns...and a giveaway! See you then!

Jessica

Pattern Giveaway Coming Soon

2011-02-27T23:10:00.003-06:00

This weekend I made a purse from Amy Barickman's Victory Bags pattern. Let me just say, I love this purse! My 15 year old loves this purse! (You may NOT have it, Ellen!) And now that I made one, I want to make another. And another....

The cool thing is...Jessica and I will be giving away two of Amy's purse patterns in a few days...and you just may be one of the lucky winners. Check back soon for more giveaway details and reviews of the purse pattern and Amy's book, Vintage Notions. :)

Ruth

Dress Form

2011-02-23T20:36:00.004-06:00

Wahoo! After all these years of sewing, I finally bought a dress form! Yes, I'm excited.

Just had to share. :)
Ruth

edit: Emily just walked in and excitedly exclaimed, "Look! Mom got a mannequin without a head!" Too funny.

Coming soon...Vintage Notions book review!

2011-02-20T12:04:00.001-06:00

oooh, look what arrived in the mail recently...a lovely package chock full of goodies from Amy Barickman of Indigo Junction. We're going to be doing a book and pattern review in the next couple weeks so check back...two readers will win a fun purse pattern! While you are waiting for the review and details, you can check out Amy's site HERE and her pattern lines HERE.

Jessica

Purse patterns to review and a fun tote bag... I love how the book came wrapped in actual pattern tissue paper from one of her patterns!

Snow Days, Sew Days

2011-02-10T20:37:00.004-06:00

Sewing and knitting....I like snow days! We "never" get snow in Oklahoma, but ha, we have had 7 snow days in the last two weeks. And when it snows, I like to sew. :) (Yes, sometimes homeschoolers get snow days, too).

The skirt: Ottobre 04-2007 #14 "Pleated Skirt"
Size 110

The top: Ottobre 01/2009 #12 "Kaisa Blouse"
Size 110, lengthened

The sweater: "Little Girl's Shrug" #288 from Pure & Simple
Size 6, Berroco Comfort yarn

More details at Ravelry and Pattern Review if you're interested in the details.

On another note, I am so thankful for all your comments on our posts here at Sew Chic. We are truly blessed by you, our readers.

Happy sewing,
Ruth

"Eleanor" Dress

2011-02-02T20:58:00.004-06:00

I bought this lovely corduroy fabric last winter to make something for Emily that would go with the striped tights she owned but didn't match anything. A year has passed, and I knew this would be the last winter the tights would fit my daughter. So I finally made her a dress from the fabric that matched the tights that will only fit a few months longer.... : )

Pattern: Ottobre 6/2010, design #10, "Eleanor" dress; A-line dress with long sleeves gathered into wide cuffs; big pointy collar; yoke with tucks.

Mostly, I like this pattern, but there were a few things I had problems with: I disliked the way Ottobre has you do the sleeve placket. Basically, you are to cut the slit in the sleeve and then just narrowly hem the raw edges of the slit. Umm....no good. Instead, I cut a bias strip and made a placket following the method described in Betzina's Power Sewing (not the kind of placket you'd use in a man's shirt, but a simple bias bound placket).

I also disliked the wideness of the dress. It looks cute on the model in the magazine, but I found it too wide for my daughter. I added narrow ties to the sides of the dress to pull in the fullness. I sewed the ties into the side seams 3" down from the armholes.

The three brown buttons on the yoke are all mismatched. Call it a design element. The truth is, we are snowed in and I couldn't get to the fabric store to buy buttons. So I used what I had in my stash that worked. Yep, it's a design element.

Overall, I'm happy with this dress and look forward to seeing Emily wear it come Sunday (if we are no longer snowbound!). Mostly, I'm happy that I'm sewing again. Hey, sewing room, I have missed you!

Ruth

It is finished!

2011-01-19T23:17:00.002-06:00

The bridesmaid dress is finished and the wedding is in 3 days! We are all so excited! I'll be back next time with pictures of Ellen wearing her new dress.

Happy Sewing,
Ruth

(Flickr pictures)

Why Wrist Warmers?

2011-01-10T23:33:00.004-06:00

A reader asked this question:

"I hope this doesn't seem like a weird question but why wrist warmers? Don't your fingers get cold? I like them but I'm not sure when to use them."

I used to wonder the same thing..."why wrist warmers?" until one day when I was playing my oboe and my hands and fingers were cold. It was one of those aha moments and I decided to make some fingerless gloves, aka wrist warmers. That was several years ago, but I never made any until this month.

Yes, my fingers still get cold, but not my whole hand. You'd be surprised how warm fingerless gloves actually are--I was. When your hand is warm, your fingers don't feel quite so cold.

Basically, fingerless gloves cover the wrist and hand but yet allow the fingers to have ease of movement for playing a musical instrument, sewing, crafting, typing at the computer....things you cannot do with gloves or mittens.

So, there you have it. Wrist warmers are great!

My 18 year old son bought me some Tofutsies yarn (I love this yarn!) for Christmas...and I've been knitting. Right now I have 2 pairs of socks on the needles that I hope to show you soon. I decided I need to finish a few UFO (unfinished objects) knitting projects before starting the Tofutsie socks.

On the sewing front, I've been hemming 2 bridesmaid dresses. Two of my daughters are bridesmaids in two different weddings in two different states on the same day. One dress from David's Bridal has over 6 yards of chiffon at the hem....let me tell you, chiffon is ten times worse to sew than satin! Somebody, please tell me, just what is the best way to hem yards and yards of chiffon fabric?

While I'm on the topic, how do you suggest hemming a satin dress that is knee-length? I had thought about doing a narrow machine-stitched rolled hem, but now I'm having second thoughts. I have no experience sewing formal garments.... Seriously, I hope somebody can help me decide what is best.

Ruth

Been Knitting

2011-01-04T23:02:00.005-06:00

Been knitting.... thought I'd share a few pics of the wrist warmers I made for Jessica and then for myself. (I liked hers so much that I decided to knit another pair for me!) These things are great--never thought I'd like "gloves" without the fingers, but these really are warm while allowing fingers to be free. :-)

The pattern: Hand/Wrist Warmers from the book Last-Minute Knitted Books that I checked out from the library

Yarn: Lion-Brand Wool Ease for the red pair and Stitch Nation Full 'O Sheep for the black pair

Needles: size 5 double pointed needles

The pics: Ellen took one picture and then another and another and another...with little regard to my protests. Goofy girl...we had fun...she's a sweet, fun-loving, soon-to-be-fifteen (sixteen days!!), loving daughter.

Happy sewing (and knitting),
Ruth

Lazy Days

2010-12-28T20:42:00.004-06:00

The bridesmaid dress is approximately 80% finished. All to be done is attaching the skirt lining and hemming both dress and lining. This picture was taken before I put in the side zipper (yes, I sewed my first-ever side zipper!) and before I made a few minor fitting alterations to the bodice. More pictures to come after the dress is completed.

I've been knitting a bit lately although I really do feel like sewing. Before Christmas, my husband commented that he needed a hat that covered his ears when he takes walks in the cold. So shortly before Christmas I knit him a hat with ear flaps. I think he likes it! :-)

I've also been knitting wrist-warmers...a quick, last minute gift for Jessica (can't find the pictures I took of them), and now I've started a pair for myself. These last few days have been lazy days for me...just sitting around knitting, reading, and listening to my iPod. Lazy days, but so relaxing.

Ruth

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T00:06:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas from my house to yours!

Our table centerpiece this year is this yum-delicious gingerbread house made by Ellen. She spent a lot of time baking and decorating the house, and I just love it!

Blessings for a wonderful Christmas,
Ruth

A Bonnie Skirt

2010-12-12T23:51:00.000-06:00

I should be sewing the bridesmaid dress, but I haven't dared cut into the satin fabric yet. Instead, I decided to make a quick and easy skirt for myself. Quick and easy, ha---not. Who in their right mind can call working with plaid fabric quick or easy? So, I spent way too much time sewing this skirt and I've postponed the bridesmaid dress until another day. (Hopefully not the day before the wedding, right?)

But the skirt is finished, and I must say, I love it! I love the purple plaid fabric, and I love the style of the skirt. Here's a brief run-down of the skirt...you can read more details on Pattern Review if you're into that kind of thing (like me).

Pattern:
Ottobre Woman 5/2010, design #9, the "Bonnie" skirt
Sizes included:
34-52 (I made the size 36.)
Design details:
curved waistband
front zipper and fly shield
pockets
belt loops
inverted pleats
topstitching

Okay, my next post should be about the bridesmaid dress. :-)

Happy sewing,
Ruth

Tools of the Trade

2010-12-09T16:35:00.004-06:00

Thank you for all the comments on my last post about whether to use a side zipper or back zipper in the bridesmaid dress I'm making. I am still undecided, ha ha. And I'm afraid, really afraid, to cut into the satin fabric. I guess I just need to go at it. I got sidetracked yesterday and sewed a winter skirt for myself instead---just need to hem it and then I'll post pictures. So anyway, wish me luck in overcoming my fear of satin and cutting out the bridesmaid dress. By the way, what is the best type of hem to use on a tea-length satin dress?

Because I can't seem to post without including a picture, here's one for you. Last month I made over 30 sets of pattern weights for a group of ladies in one of the sewing co-ops I belong to. Today I received an email stating that one of my pattern weight listings from Etsy was featured in an Etsy treasury. I found the collection of photos of "Tools of the Trade" to be delightful, so I'm posting it here. :-)

Happy sewing,
Ruth

Sewing Again!

2010-12-07T00:04:00.001-06:00

It's been such a long time since I've posted. Such a long time since I've sewn. Of course, I've missed sewing, and I've missed blogging about my sewing, and I've missed your comments. But I'm back again, at least for the moment.

The impetus to get me sewing again is that my almost-15-year-old daughter is going to be a bridesmaid in a January wedding, and I get to sew her dress. Oh the happiness of sewing again!

Today, aforementioned daughter helped me clean up my sewing room, and then I cut out the muslin for her dress. The pattern is Simplicity 2692. I am making View B---sleeveless, and with or without the sash (hasn't been decided yet). The dress has gathers at both the front and back shoulder for a Grecian-style dress. The fabric for the finished dress is a beautiful blue satin.

For the mock-up, I used a piece of calico from my stash. It doesn't have the same drape as the satin will have, but for fitting purposes, it suits just fine.

The neckline is too low for Ellen, and so I raised it following the detailed instructions at Gorgeous Things' blog. The picture here shows my new cutting line after I raised the neckline two inches.

The new neckline is better. Here, the seam allowances are turned under at the neckline, but not at the armholes.

From this next picture I see that I need to take in the side seams directly under the arm but keep them the same width where they meet the midriff band.

The pattern calls for a side seam zipper. I have never put a zipper into a side seam, so now I must make a decision. Should I take the easy way out and put the zipper down the center back? Or should I learn something new and place the zipper in the side seam? Are there any advantages or reasons why a side zipper is preferable? If you can give some insight on this, I'd like to hear about it.

By the way, Jessica is making a dress for another bridesmaid in the same wedding. The bride-to-be has allowed each bridesmaid to choose the design elements of the pattern she likes best...sleeves or no sleeves, long or short skirt, sash or no sash. I hope Jessica posts about her progress; it will be fun to see how these two dresses turn out. Jessica has much more experience sewing formal wear, and I am a little apprehensive about the satin. I may be calling you, Jess, to help with Ellen's dress. :-)

Happy sewing,
Ruth

stopping in here....

2010-11-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

...to say hello! Wow, we haven't been around here much lately...Sorry about that! I've been busy living life with a little sewing thrown in here and there. I've got a craft fair next weekend (I know, the day after Thanksgiving!), and I know Mom has been busy working on more pattern weights among other things.

A couple things I wanted to share from my e-mail box:

J&O Fabrics, a new-to-me fabric shop, recently contacted us and wanted to pass along a coupon code just for you. STITCH will give you 15% off any order with them! Enjoy.

I love all the free patterns and tutorials at fabric.com...this little shrug is so cute. I'd love to make it really soon...we'll see if that happens!

Lastly, I came across this amazing purse during some blog hopping last week. I love, love, love it!! I even have just the fabric for it, a tweed that I bought last year for a skirt and never made, and I am completely ~~planning~~ hoping to make this purse asap for this winter. =)

Tutorial is available HERE.

Lastly, have a wonderful Thanksgiving, friends!

Jessica

Purple Hiatus

2010-10-13T19:16:00.004-05:00

I've been taking a hiatus from sewing. Not an intentional break, but a break nontheless, ever since returning from Switzerland.

Now I want to sew again. Yea for sewing! I bought a couple pieces of fabric to make some winter skirts, and I'm excited to start sewing again.

In the meantime, I've been knitting a PURPLE sweater for 5 year old Emily. When I took this picture, I instructed her to hold the yarn carefully so as not to tangle the yarn or let the needles fall out of the unfinished sleeve. Emily replied that the yarn looked like a giant purple peanut, lol. Such a silly goose of a girl; she makes my heart smile.

happy sewing,

Ruth

We have a winner!

2010-10-12T13:48:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who commented on our Sew Tina blog post...we have a winner!

Using random.org, the winner of the Sew Tina prize pack is number 30, Leslie, who commented "I like the idea of kids clothes that are a little bit different, at least as long as the kids are little. The designs seem to be easy fit and very cute."

Thanks again to all who commented, and be sure and check out some of the other stops on the blog tour for more chances to win the book!

Jessica

Sew Tina!!

2010-10-04T09:44:00.003-05:00

Sew Tina, 30 Cute Projects and Adorable Decor Items

Yay! Today's the day for our Sew Tina book review and giveaway.

When Lark Crafts asked me if I'd be interested in being part of the blog tour for Tina Given's new book, I was jumping with excitement! Not only do mom and I love to sew adorable clothes for our kids (and grandkids in Mom's case!), but I know that many of our readers are also sewing for little people and would love a sneak peak into Tina's new book.

Tina Givens, as many of you know, is a talented fabric designer and artist. Her energetic and free-spirited prints are perfect for kids clothes, but they still have that modern edge that make them appealing to adults as well. The projects in her book all feature her fabrics and they definitely inspire me to sew.

Let's get down to the nitty gritty. I know you want the details!

*Patterns

There are 30 projects in all, divided into projects for infants and projects for older kids. There is a good mix of clothing, decor, and fun kids items (sleeping bag, backpack, jewelry etc). There are three clothing items (excluding hats and infant booties) that are geared for the boys, one in an infant size and two in the older kids sizes.

One thing that you'll find with these patterns is that they are truly different, but in a really fun, unique way. Tina Givens style is definitely non-traditional with little twists and surprises to make you smile, and her patterns will have much appeal to the free-spirited and whimsical ones among us.

*Sizing

The clothing patterns are sized in a general S/M/L format for both the infant and kids patterns. The infant sizes range from 3 mo. to 18 mo. and the kids sizes range from a 2T to a size 7 and are purposely sized generously to allow for freedom of movement and growing room.

*Directions and Illustrations

The direction and illustrations are not fussy or perfectionistic, yet they seemed to be really forthright and clear. In the two projects I sewed up for this review, I didn't have a single snag with the directions. Tina believes that charm lies in handmade imperfection and one of the goals should be to create something that is unique, special, and uncomplicated. As a recovering perfectionist myself, I really like that.

For this review I made up the Brookies (bloomer pants) and the Bouncy Beret Hat. Below they are pictured on my spunky little Jaidyn Marie.

Both patterns went together easily came out so adorable. Marie loves the beret had and actually wore it for more then a couple of minutes! The fabric I used is a soft, mini wale corduroy.

It's difficult to see in the picture above, but the bloomer pants have little side ruffle pleats on them. They remind me of an alligator's back, hehe! I love these on her. They cut is slightly oversized and the style a little bit funky, but it's perfect for her personality!

Note the yellow binding the used on the inside of the legs. It's just for fun!

Now for the fun part! The giveaway! Leave a comment, let us know what you think of the book, or just say hello! We'll draw a name next Monday the 11th, exactly one week from now.

Check out it! One winner will receive Tina's new book, 4 yards of fabric, 2 boxes of stationery, and 2 extra sewing patterns...

I want to be sure and give a big thank you to Tina Givens and Lark Crafts for sponsoring such a generous giveaway and for letting us be involved in the fun!

xoxo!

Jessica

Knit T-Shirt Updo

2010-09-30T19:55:00.001-05:00

Cheap $7.00 t-shirt from Target. I love the stripes but it needed a bit more to give it some punch...

Simple circles cut out of black, grey and red knit fabric, sewn on by hand...less then 15 minutes of my time and now it's perfect for fall!

Tutorial inspiration HERE.

Don't forget to stop back by on Monday for our Sew Tina blog tour stop and giveaway!

Jessica

Fabric Stores in Switzerland

2010-09-22T12:23:00.008-05:00

I am back! My 3 week visit to Switzerland was oh-so-wonderful, but it's good to be home! I found several fabric stores in Switzerland, but truthfully, I could not afford to buy much. (Along with the Alps, prices are STEEP in Switzerland! Ha, ha, that's a joke, and you're supposed to laugh.)

This store was in Zurich.... Look at the zipper collection! I was amazed at the selection. Oh, and the fabric was all so luscious....you can imagine how excited I was. See the purple bolt of print fabric in the next picture? I bought one meter of it---will show you pictures later---and I only paid 34 francs per meter, yes, mucho expensivo. Think of it as paying $34 per yard. But in defense of my splurge, I really did HAVE to have some fabric from Switzerland, and it is purple (my new favorite color), and it is a lovely knit with a soft drape, and I LOVE IT! Betcha can't wait to see pictures, huh? (another post on another day....)

Another fabric store I visited was in Luzern, and oh, you should have seen the beautiful knit and corduroy fabrics there. The fabrics were wonderful, but I resisted the temptation to buy any. Oh, at the suggestion of a Sew Chic reader, I visited another fabric shop that was fairly close to my daughter's apartment in Zurich. Apropos had rolls and rolls of fabric, more than any other fabric shop I'd been to. Again, I resisted the urge to buy.... Thank you, Alvertern, for telling me about Apropos. Yes, I had a good time in Zurich!

Alvertern said:
A beautiful Fabrik Store in Zürich
Apropos
Holhlstrasse 201
in Zürich

Ich wünsche eine gute Zeit in Zürich!

(Hilco fabric? at the shop in Luzern)

While I was in Switzerland, I didn't have time to miss sewing. We stayed busy with sightseeing, climbing the Alps, shopping, and visiting museums. Oh, and I spent a lot of time (but never enough!) loving on my sweet granddaughter. It's good to see my daughter and her husband so happy together. This last picture is of my grandbaby and me standing on top of the world (so it seemed!) in the Alps.

Ruth

more Switzerland pictures here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/callmeruth/collections/72157624761912517/

Coming soon...Sew Tina Blog Tour!

2010-09-21T16:51:00.000-05:00

Oh, I am so super excited...Sew Chic is going to be part of the debut blog tour for Tina Givens new sewing book Sew Tina! 30 Cute Projects and Adorable Decor Items for Kids.

The book releases at the beginning of October and we're going to be showing off a couple of projects made from it and hosting a fabulous giveaway as well. I'm really excited and just had to share the fun. Now you have something to look forward to in the next couple of weeks!

yay for sewing!

Jessica

It's County Fair Time!

2010-09-11T13:57:00.000-05:00

Last night we had a fun family evening...

Elliot got to ride in a little water barrel train...he loved that!

Marie had to content herself with sitting on a really big tractor...she was just a bit too little to ride in the train by herself.

Justin liked the bunnies...just kidding! The kids loved the petting farm though!

I was pretty excited...this year I won two best of show ribbons! One for Marie's Easter dress and the other for my chocolate chip cookies. I've been entering sewn items in our county fairs since I was 16, but it's only in the last couple years that I've started doing some baked good too. I'm really not a huge baker, but I do have a good chocolate chip cookie recipe. =)

Have a great week, friends. Mom is getting back in the middle of next week, so hopefully soon she's do a recap of her Switzerland trip. I'm excited to have her back again...3 weeks is a long time to go without talking to your mom!

Jessica

Summer Sewing Wrap-Up

2010-09-03T23:18:00.001-05:00

Whew! What a summer it's been...long and hot! Cooler weather is finally starting to breeze through Oklahoma this week. Today was the first day we didn't have to run our air conditioner!

Mom keeps reminding me that I haven't posted pictures of my summer sewing (all 3 projects, haha!). Most of my sewing time this summer was spent getting ready for the craft fair I did last weekend. That was a blast and now I'm ready to do some fun sewing for the kids and myself, but first I really do want to wrap up with reviews of this summer's projects.

First off my was my Easter skirt...that got finished in June! I actually only wore this once this summer...I don't know...it was just so white, and a bit too full. I think I'd wear it more if I had a colored top to wear with it. Oh well...maybe I'll wear it for Easter next year!

The fabric is from fabric.com...a sheer print with little chenille circles that add texture. Any ideas of something fun to do with the scraps?

Next was sort of a refashion project that Marie and I have both actually gotten a ton of wear out of. Exibit A (below) is Liberty of London print dress from Target. It was clearanced for $8.00 It's a girl's size 16, and it fit me but was too short to wear as a maxi dress.

I chopped the skirt in half and re-fashioned the top part into a sundress for Marie. The remaining skirt portion became a summer skirt for me! It's fun to match sometimes!

Marie is such a spunky little girl. I love her!!

Finally, in July, a special friend of mine got married and I sewed my bridesmaid dress and the dress for another friend who was also in the wedding.

There were 11 bridemaids total and each girl used the same fabric but had a different pattern and style to her dress. The variety was really fun and refreshing.

You've seen the pattern for my dress, McCalls 5804, before HERE and HERE. I loved how it came out made in formal fabrics.

Here's the closeup detail of the rose flower at the waist. I used this tutorial for my inspiration.

Hopefully soon I'll have some fun fall sewing to show off. Tonight after the kids went to bed I got a pj set cut out for Elliot. I'm excited to use my coverstitch again!

Blessings!

Jessica

I'm in Switzerland!

2010-08-31T15:41:00.005-05:00

As promised, I took a picture of my 4 month old granddaughter wearing the Ottobre jacket I made for her. As you can see, the size 68 jacket is big on her. But she'll grow. In the week since I've been here in Zurich she seems to have grown bigger right before my eyes.

I will be here in Switzerland for a total of three weeks, and I'm having a wonderful time with my daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law. Zurich is beautiful! Switzerland is beautiful! We have kept busy every day, sightseeing, picnic-ing, shopping, and visiting castles, old churches, museums.... And of course, I am finding time to hug and kiss on the baby. Oh, she is so adorable, so sweet, so good natured, so absolutely precious! I am savoring every minute with her because I don't know when next I will see her.

Zurich along the Limmat River

If you care to see pictures of my travels in Switzerland, I have them here on Flickr.

Ruth

p.s. I've not yet found a fabric store in Zurich, but my daughter promises me there is one or two that we'll visit.

Ottobre 04/2007 Design#8 "Hooded Velour Jacket"
Size 68 (6 months)
Fabric: velour outer, jersey knit lining

It's time for the Dustbowl again!

2010-08-24T15:31:00.000-05:00

Yay, this Saturday is the Dustbowl Arts Market in Norman, Ok. Last year was so much fun...I'm super excited to be part of this fair again! If you are in the area, please come see me!

Here's a sneak peak of some of the little hair flower clips I'll have there! Hopefully I'll have some more pictures in the next few days, and then after the fair I have plans to restock my etsy store. I have been VERY busy sewing this last month and have lots of new stuff!

Blessings, Jessica

Panasonic Iron Review

2010-08-15T13:46:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I get e-mails from people wanting to know my opinions on sewing machines and serger brands. Unfortunately I'm not a lot of help because all I've ever sewn on are Pfaffs, but like most people, I've been through my share of irons! The expensive Rowenta I started out with didn't make it through the first two years of marriage. For quite some time now I've been limping along with a little discount store iron a friend gave me when I needed one in a pinch. I finally decided I needed something with a few more features (like getting hot for starters!).

So for everyone who wants an iron recommendations, I purchased this Panasonic iron two months ago, and LOVE it. It's pretty heavy, gets very hot with lots of steam, and has a fairly large detachable water tank. It also has a retractable cord with built in storage on the base, and an auto-off. The temperature dial seems really reliable and I haven't had any issues with it spitting water on any of the lower settings. I wasn't too sure about the detachable water tank, but it is actually so handy! With a push of a button it comes off and I can fill it up in the sink and snap it right back on. No more carrying little water containers back and forth, and no more dripping water all over trying to fill the iron up. I leave my iron set up all the time, so the retractable cord isn't a big deal to me, but if I need to put it up, it'll be nice to not have the cord flopping all over.

The nicest thing about this iron though was that it was completely free with my Swagbucks earnings! You can find out more about Swagbucks HERE if you are interested!

Jessica

Fabric Acquisition and a Few Finished Projects

2010-07-31T13:45:00.003-05:00

We went to Colorado last week and I got a picture of my grandson wearing the jacket I made. It fits! Well, it's actually somewhat big, but not too big that he can't wear it now and yet have growing room. When I asked him who made his jacket, he shouted, "Grammie made it!" He was excited and happy about the jacket, and that makes me happy. :-)

While we were in Colorado, Jessica and I took off one afternoon and went to Denver Fabrics. My, how that store has changed since I lived in Denver! We still managed to find some fabric (of course!). I bought two pieces for winter skirts, the plaid and a solid black--both wool blends. The white fabric is a sweater knit--perfect for the cardigan, bolero, or shrug patterns that I often see in the Ottobre magazines.

This fourth print is a lightweight poplin with a bold border print. I plan to use this for skirts for Ellen and Jessica. They both have green tops, and since they live in different houses they wouldn't have to be matchy-matchy (horrors!).

This last piece of fabric did not come from Denver Fabrics but was given to me by a dear friend in Denver who was cleaning out her stash and knows I love to sew. The fabric is baby corduroy in a soft pink---perfect for my little girl and two granddaughters. Not sure yet what I'll make.

Lastly, here is a sneak preview of what I stayed up sewing 'til the wee hours of the morning yesterday---I just couldn't stop because it was all coming together so nicely. In a few short weeks I am flying to Switzerland to visit my second-born daughter, her husband, and my new 3-month old grand baby. I can't wait to meet my newest granddaughter, and I just had to sew something for her! I'll post more about this sweet garment after I get pictures of the baby wearing it.

Happy Sewing,

My Honey and her Little Honey Dress

2010-07-29T01:16:00.004-05:00

The dress is finished, the pictures are taken, and I've entered the dress in the Sewing For Children Contest at patternreview.com. Check out all the wonderful garments that other contestants have sewn, and if you are a PR member then place your vote after July 31st for the item you like best. Regardless of whether or not I win, this dress has truly been a delight to sew!

P.S. The fabric I used is called "Little Honey" which is why I call this the Little Honey Dress.

Little Honey Dress

2010-07-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

The Little Honey Dress is finished! To save time, I've copied my review from Pattern Review here instead of writing another different post. In a day or so, I'll add pictures of Emily wearing the dress.

Pattern Description:
Oliver+S Jump Rope Dress Pattern

Shirtwaist dress features rounded collar and front placket detail. View A includes short sleeves with folded cuff and sleeve tab, slightly dropped waist, patch pockets, and self sash with belt loops. View B features long-sleeves with folded cuffs, A-line shaping, and gathered bias-trimmed patch pockets. I sewed view A.

Pattern Sizing:
Sizes 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 all in one envelope. Smaller sizes are also available. I made a size 5 and found the fit to be true to size.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Inspired by a blouse on the cover of a recent Ottobre magazine, I decided to add a ruffle to the center front of the dress. Otherwise, my finished garment looks like the pattern.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Excellent instructions! The front placket instructions in particular are very well-written and have clear illustrations. I've not had good success with this advanced type of placket, but by following the instructions my placket came out great. I'll refer to these instructions next time I sew this type of placket.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the front placket.
I love the dropped waist.
I love the many details in this pattern---the top stitching, the belt loops, the sleeve tabs, the pocket flaps, the sash, and the sweet little collar that rolls so nicely even without a separate collar stand.
I love the ruffle I added to the center front.
I love the way the found-in-my-stash purple buttons match the center of the flowers on the fabric.
I love the voile fabric I used. Lovely stuff, really, yummy, yummy voile from designer Anna Maria Horner.
I love the classic lines of this pattern.

Fabric Used:
Two coordinating prints of cotton voile from Anna Maria Horner. Did I mention how lovely this voile is?!!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Only 2 changes: I added a ruffle to the front of the dress, and I lined the skirt with white voile. There will be no searching for the always-lost slip with this dress...it has its own built-in slip.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, and yes! My Emily wears a size 5, and the pattern goes up to a size 8. Yup, I'll be making it again!

Conclusion:
This is a sweet little pattern with a timeless, classic style.

I have enjoyed sewing this dress, and I can't wait to show you the pictures of Emily wearing it.

Elephants on Parade

2010-07-15T18:42:00.005-05:00

We are leaving on vacation in two days, and my 3-year-old grandson did not have a jacket to take. So today I made him one. That sounds like I just sat down and made a jacket---false impression, there. This jacket gave me fits, mostly because of my own error. I thought the jacket would be quick and easy, but it seemed to take forever. I had to use my seam ripper all too often, and I broke 3 needles in the process. I really am slow when I sew. But finally, the jacket is finished and I think it's adorable. I can't wait to see it on Elliot.

The pattern: Ottobre 01/2005, design #26, Hooded Sweat Jacket

Size: 104 (US size 5 toddler)

Fabric: Sweatshirt fleece that Jessica bought from fabric.com. The hood is lined with a yummy-thick knit from Hancock's.

Wonder Tape is wonderful! I don't think the pocket edges would have turned out so nice and even without Wonder Tape.

I used the reverse side of my coverstitch for the hem. Yes, it is a bit curvy-crooked. :/

For fun, I added a bit of grosgrain ribbon to the hem---just a little embellishment I once saw on a ready-to-wear garment.

The hood has a piece of elastic at center front. Ottobre is great with these little details.

The sleeve backs have elbow patches. How cute is that? Not my original idea--part of the pattern. :)

Okay, were off to Colorado for a few days. I hope the jacket fits Elliot!

Little Honey Placket

2010-07-10T06:55:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I started sewing the dress that I'm calling the "Little Honey Dress." The main fabric is called "little honey" and I hope it's going to be one honey of a dress for my little 5 year old honey. :) (Yes, I'm being goofy, but hey, that's okay, right?) The coordinating fabric is "village path" and both fabrics are cotton voile, made by Anna Maria Horner.

I love the ruffle on the Ottobre blouse, but instead of turning the blouse pattern into a dress, I decided to just add the ruffle to another pattern, the Jump Rope dress pattern by Oliver+S.

I didn't make much progress on the dress yesterday, but I started the placket. Because I've never sewn this type of placket ever before, I decided to take pictures of my progress in case it may be of help to somebody else. At first, I thought the placket would be confusing and complicated; but I followed the instructions step-by-step and it really wasn't difficult at all. So---here are the pictures:

Bodice Front: Placket placement; the bodice front is not cut open until after the placket pieces are sewn in place. This picture shows the markings that are to be placed at the center front of the bodices.

Ruffle Pieces: sewn, turned, pressed, gathered, and then basted to the center front. The ruffles were cut on the bias.

Placket Pieces: The ruffles are sandwiched between the bodice front and the placket pieces. The plackets pieces are sewn to the bodice and then the center front is cut opened.

I didn't have time to finish pressing and sewing everything in place, but this last picture gives you an idea of what the dress front will look like. I can't wait to get back to it!

More pictures at this Flickr set.

From Bleh To Meh

2010-07-08T23:10:00.003-05:00

My mom gave me this dress several years ago, but it was too big. I finally got around to taking it in so that it fits. I'm not sure if I like the style anymore like I did 3 years ago. What do you think? Should I keep it or pass it on?

The Bleh:

The Meh:

YEAH?

Distraction

2010-06-30T17:56:00.004-05:00

I was cleaning my sewing room today (you wouldn't believe the clutter!!!), but then I got distracted by this Ottobre magazine with the cute gingham blouse on the front. Out came my sketchbook and Sharpie markers.... I think I know what my next sewing project is going to be. I just need to decide on what style of skirt to add to the bottom of the blouse.

The fabric I'll use will be the Little Honey voile from Anna Maria Horner. I can't wait to get started.

But first I need to finish cleaning my sewing mess.

Ruffled A-Line Skort

2010-06-29T13:25:00.004-05:00

A skort, what is a skort? From Wikipedia: "Skorts are essentially skirts with a pair of shorts hidden underneath, though most resemble a pair of shorts with a panel of fabric over the front." There you have it.

I made another skort for Emily. This A-Line Ruffled Skort pattern is the second skort pattern from Cindy at Sew Blessed Designs. I sewed Cindy's first pattern in January and loved it then; I knew that I'd like this pattern, too, and I wasn't disappointed.

The pattern comes in girl sizes 3-10, all sizes in one envelope. The patterns are printed on heavy paper and need to be traced out at the size needed. Note that there are no pattern pieces given for the waistband and ruffles, but the instruction sheet tells how many and what dimensions to use for cutting these pieces.

Cindy's instructions are detailed and easy to follow and have clear, hand-drawn illustrations. The only two things I found missing that would be helpful to beginning sewers are (1) a diagram showing the pattern layout, and (2) instructions or a diagram showing which direction the waistband and ruffle pieces should be cut--lengthwise, cross grain, or bias (for the ruffles?).

Fabric: For the skirt I used a lightweight denim with appliqued/embroidered flowers, left over from my skirt. The shorts underneath are made from broadcloth.

Changes I made: The pattern gives the option for front hip pockets--a wonderful detail that I typically like. Because of the bulk of my fabric (I'd have to cut around the flowers), I left off the pockets. The only other change I made was to not sew in the slits at the shorts side seams.

Conclusion: This is another pattern that I will use again and again. I like that so many sizes come in one envelope for one price, from toddler size 3 to girls size 10. And there are so many options for different looks--ruffle, pockets, shorts--put them on or leave them off. I would like to sew this pattern again in a pretty floral fabric for a completely different look. Or perhaps in a soft corduroy for this coming fall....

Emily was in bed for the night when I decided to make this skort, and I guessed on the size, making a size 6. I really should have made a size 5 because the size 6 is fuller and longer on Emily than I really like. But she'll grow, right? So it's all okay. :)

The front: Sweet Emily is standing in front of my husband's garden, which by the way, is doing great this year.

The back-- don't you love the ruffles?!! I do.

We match! Okay, maybe a bit corny, but I don't mind and Emily doesn't mind, so let us be. :) Just don't ask one of my older daughters if they would like us to wear matching skirts. You know what they'd say---a resounding "NO!" I'm sure it won't be too many years and Emily will feel the same as her big sisters....

happy sewing,

Beautiful Voile and Another Skirt

2010-06-21T21:44:00.003-05:00

This is Skirt #3 made from the Ottobre pattern that I wrote about recently. I didn't plan to write another post about my summer skirts, but I just have to tell you about the fabric I used for this skirt. The fabric is cotton voile. From Anna Maria Horner. The voile is beautiful. Silky. Luxurious. Wonderful hand and drape. Perfect for garments. I have other voile fabric on my shelf, but this Anna Maria Horner voile surpasses any voile I've ever seen before. It's that great. Really. You have to see it and touch it to believe it. It's just lovely.

I know, I sound like a commercial, don't I? Maybe Anna Maria will send me some voile for the advertisement---wouldn't that be nice? :-) The fabric is a bit pricey or I would be buying it in every print and color! As it is, I bought just two yards: the blue "Diamond Mine" that I used for the skirt, and the "Little Honey, Berry" line. (I'm not yet sure what I'm going to make with the Little Honey piece).

For the blue skirt, I used the same curved waistband pattern piece as the other two skirts. But instead of using the a-line skirt, I simply cut a length of fabric the full width of the fabric (about 55"), gathered it along the top, and attached it to the waistband. I put the invisible zipper at the side seam, and I did line the skirt with plain white voile (from my stash). One yard of fabric was more than enough for this simple skirt. However, if I wanted a more-fully gathered skirt, or if I was wider around at the hips, then I would need more than a yard.

happy sewing,

Yo-Yo Hair Clips

2010-06-19T17:34:00.006-05:00

When we were at Oklahoma Quiltworks on Thursday, I bought two sizes of Clover Yo-Yo Makers. It didn't take long for my 14-year-old daughter, Ellen, to figure out how to use this nifty gadget, and today she made five fabric yo-yo's. She sewed a vintage button to each yo-yo and then mounted them to ribbon-covered metal hair clips.

All five clips are pictured here in Emily's hair. Aren't they pretty?! Ellen did such a great job making these hair clips! I think she should make some for sale. Anybody interested? :-)

I've made yo-yo's like these many years ago when there was no such a thing as a yo-yo maker. Let me tell you, yo-yo's are sooooo easy to make with this fantastic tool. After seeing Ellen's yo-yo's, I may just make a few myself....

Bloggy Meet Up

2010-06-18T09:06:00.006-05:00

Something wonderful happened yesterday; my daughter, Ellen, and I got to meet Lori from Girls in the Garden and her two 15 year old daughters! We met at Oklahoma Quiltworks in the city and Lori and I talked and talked and talked. Then we went for lunch and talked some more. I'm afraid we didn't give the girls much chance to talk because Lori and I just didn't stop. It was so fun! Afterwards, I realized that our conversation was not very sewing related---and I had so many sewing/fabric questions I wanted to ask Lori!

If you've ever listened to Lori's Sew Forth Now podcast, you know how informative and interesting it is. I think I've listened to every episode Lori has made, and I am eagerly awaiting the next. Hint, hint, Lori! Well, I guess I'll give you time to get home from your trip before expecting another podcast. :-) It sure was nice to meet you and your girls; thank you for taking the time to meet up!

Green Bean Mountain

2010-06-15T14:21:00.002-05:00

Mark loves to garden! And I'm thankful for the harvest. :)

Skirts, Skirts, Skirts

2010-06-13T19:33:00.012-05:00

I'm on a skirt kick right now. Skirts are fun to sew, easy to fit, and comfortable to wear. They can be dressed up or down. I love to wear skirts, especially in the summer, and so I decided to sew a few for myself. Both these skirts are made from the same pattern, and yes, it's from Ottobre.

Pattern: Ottobre 05/07 Design #4
This easy to sew lined skirt has a curved, fitted waistband and closes with an invisible zipper down the center back seam. The magazine gives three variations of this same pattern. I like that it only takes one yard of 60" wide fabric.

Skirt #1: I made this blue floral skirt first.

Fabric used: I used a stretch cotton that I discovered does not really have enough drape for this pattern. The skirt tends to stand out from my body, but hopefully after I wash it a few times it will hang better. One way to fix this problem would be to take out some of the flare from the pattern, but I don't feel like taking it apart to do so. So, I'll leave it alone as is. The skirt is lined with lining fabric from my stash.

Changes and Construction details: I like my skirts to fit about 1" below my natural waist. I think this pattern must run big because I had to take bigger seam allowances to make it fit right. I should have compared my low-waist measurement to the pattern pieces instead of just going by the pattern measurement chart.

I interfaced both the waistband and the waistband facing to give the waist extra body and to prevent the waistline seam from stretching out.

Oh, I just love my Pfaff invisible zipper foot. For years I sewed invisible zippers with a generic plastic foot, but let me tell you, the "real" foot works 100% better.

Skirt #2: What do you think? Is this next skirt too little-girl or too "homeschool mom" for me? My 2 older daughters at home seem to think so. I kind of like it, though. Casual for summer and hey, just about any color top matches.

Fabric: The fabric is a lightweight denim with appliqued flowers. I bought this fabric at Hancock's because it was marked down at a good price. This fabric is not something I normally would choose for myself, but I found that I love this skirt in this fabric.

Changes and Construction details: I took off some of the fullness/flare of the a-line skirt by taking off two inches at the side seam hem and tapering up to the original waistline. Also, the lightweight denim does not require the wearing of a slip, so I did not line the skirt. The waistband is faced with a red floral print. I stabilized the waistband seam with twill tape to prevent stretching.

Conclusion: I love this pattern, I love both skirts, and who knows, I may make another one...or two....

Coming soon: With the remaining fabric, I made this sweet skirt for Emily using a delightful pattern from Sew Blessed Designs. I'll tell you about it next time.

Happy Sewing,

How to make a twirly toddler skirt!

2010-06-02T09:41:00.002-05:00

Earlier this Spring, my local quilt store, The Patchwork Place moved and had a grand opening sale. I picked up two small pieces off of the bargain table not knowing what I'd do with them...they were just cute and sort of coordinated! Do you ever buy fabric like that? If you love it and it's cheap, I say, go for it!!

It turns out, the pieces I bought worked well for a little layered skirt for Marie...they were approximately 9 and 10.5 inches long each when I bought them. Because the one was a bit longer then the other, I able to layer the two pieces, and put in a simple elastic waistband to construct the skirt. Pretty simple actually, but I thought a photo tutorial might be fun, so here we go.

My fabric pieces were 9 and 10.5 inches tall. This was perfect for a size 24 mo. skirt for my daughter. You would need to use taller pieces for taller girls. I ended up using the full width (44inches) of the fabric for the width of the skirt. In my opinion, this ended up being a bit too full and for Marie's waist. I had trouble gathering the bulk tight enough to fit her. For bigger girls, I think the full fabric width would be great, but for smaller sizes, I'd cut it down some in the future.

In the first picture above, I sewed up the side seams and put in the 1/2 inch hems for both pieces. The top layer (the floral print) is 1.5 inches shorter then the bottom piece.

Next I layered the blue polka dot piece (the longer, "bottom" piece) on top of the floral piece (the shorter "top" piece) with both pieces facing right sides up and sewed along the top edge about 1/2 inch from the edge. This feels "wrong" because I want the finished skirt to have the floral print on top with the blue dot peeking out along the bottom, but when you finish sewing the seam and turn it to the inside, you will have a finished edge along the top waistline and the two skirt layers to be facing out right (see below).

It's hard to see in this photo (above), but after I turned the blue polka dot piece to the inside, I sewed a casing for the elastic waistband. If I'm using 3/8 inch elastic, I sew about 5/8 inch down from the top edge, leaving a 1 inch opening to insert the elastic.

Insert elastic and sew up the opening and you'll have a little twirly skirt!!

Here's the finished skirt on Marie....she's my little sweetheart!

enjoy!

Jessica

Not a Sewing Wonder

2010-05-30T14:46:00.007-05:00

One question I am frequently asked is, "Where do you find the time to sew?” I’m afraid I don’t really have the answer, because lately I have not had time to sew. You’ll notice that my last post was dated May 7th---dear readers, it’s been 3 weeks since I’ve sewn!

I am always amazed, embarrassed, encouraged, and slightly amused (what a mixture of emotions) at the reaction I get from people who read this blog---and believe me, this is not one of the popular, high-profile sewing blogs (nor do I wish it to be). I am often asked in a voice of awe and wonder where I find the time to sew, to homeschool, to play my oboe, to clean my house, to do the laundry, and so forth.

People, I do not spend all my time in the sewing room. :) My house is usually messy, and I’m doing well if I get to the mountains of laundry at least once a week (I refuse to do laundry on a daily basis but have one day set aside as “laundry day”). As for my oboe playing, at my best I am just a mediocre oboist—no illusions of grandeur there. (But hey, if anybody wants to buy me a Loree oboe, I won’t refuse such a gift!)

I do love to sew, and I do wish I had more time for sewing. But such is life, and I’m not complaining. One of these days I hope to graduate from sewing children’s clothing to sewing more for myself. Yes, I occasionally attempt to sew for me, and I’ve even posted a few of the garments I’ve made myself. But truth be told, I rarely wear what I sew for myself. I don’t know enough about fitting and alterations to make a garment fit me right; and I don’t take the time to learn. See…really, I am not a sewing wonder.

Change of topic---remember the quilt top I made over a month ago? Yesterday, instead of cleaning house, I took the time to finish the quilt. I’m so excited about this quilt---it’s for me, a lap quilt, for when I want to settle in on the couch with a good book or movie (and coffee!). The size is 42” by 60” and just the perfect size to snuggle with.

Thanks for reading, and thanks to those who regularly comment. You are all so encouraging.

Quilt Front

Quilt Back

My Buffet Oboe

Ooga Booga and Bananas

2010-05-07T11:08:00.005-05:00

What does Ooga Booga have to do with bananas? Nothing really. For that matter, the only thing in this post having to do with bananas is the color of the twill fabric I used for Emily's capri pants. I don't even like bananas unless they're baked in banana bread, but that's beside the point.

So what is the point of this post? I sewed! Yep, I sewed and it sure felt nice!

This yellow "ooga booga'' fabric has been in my stash for several years and wouldn't you know, I had the perfect color of rib knit to use for the binding. The top is from the Summer 3/2008 issue of Ottobre, design #12, the 'Strawberry Tunic." (These details are for you fellow-Otto fanatics).

I made this pattern for Emily 2 years ago; I liked it then, and I like it now. This particular pattern runs big, and so I again made a size 98 when I am now sewing a size 110 or 116 for Emily. I did make the neckline bigger to fit over Emily's head. The only other change I made was to insert a strip of ribbing into the front yoke seam.

The pants are from the Summer 3/2009 issue of Ottobre, design #23, the "Bert Bermudas." Last summer I made these shorts in denim for my son. This year I made the same pattern, same size, in BANANA twill for Emily. :) I used my sewing machine to free-style embroidery an Ooga Booga on one of the back pockets.

Hopefully this will be the start of summer sewing for Emily. I know these yellow pants will not stay clean for long, so this outfit will be one of her 'nice outfits.' I plan on sewing 2-3 pairs of denim shorts for everyday play. I'm not one to do assembly line sewing, but I think I just might use the same pattern and sew several pairs of identical Bermuda shorts. Stay tuned....

Bedside Inspiration

2010-04-27T16:53:00.000-05:00

From top to bottom

The Creative Family, Mommy Teach me, Home Sewn, Fashion 101, Seams to Me, Material Obsession, Sewing Activewear

I have been literally buried in new books from the library...thought I'd share a few lovely pictures with you!

Have you ever wondered what the difference between a shirtdress, a maxi dress, an empire gown, a ball gown, and a cocktail dress? Find out all in Fashion 101. Great for the budding fashion designer and the sew-it-your-self types... I wish I had this dress back when I was designing hundreds of paper doll dresses as a kid. It would have been my constant companion.

Seams to Me by Anna Maria Horner. I LOVE it all!

I want to make this... (I have some vintage scraps that would be perfect!)

and this...

...and these. To cute!!

Material Obsession....sounds like me, right?

I literally gasped when I saw this quilt. I adore purples and lavenders anyway, but the combination of colors and prints in this one blew me away. I just love simple quilts. Oh, I want it!

I have some fat quarters that will be perfect for this fat quarter quilt...

whenever I get around to it, that is!

Finally, a trio of very lovely, restful pictures from Home Sewn. I wish I could step right into this book and live in it. The photos took me to another world and I came away relaxed and refreshed.

Delicious!

Blessings!

Jessica

Stacking Coins

2010-04-24T16:46:00.004-05:00

I didn't plan to stack coins today, but I'm glad I did. Now I just need to find the time to quilt it. :) Details to come soon.

happy quilting,

Gently and Sweetly

2010-04-22T19:17:00.006-05:00

I'm so excited about the fabric that came in the mail this week that I just have to share! Let me tell you about Fresh Squeezed Fabrics. On her blog, Randi recently held a giveaway in which she gave one randomly chosen winner a $50 dollar gift certificate to her store. I won! Can you believe it? I rarely win anything, and I won $50 of free fabric from this wonderful online fabric store. You can imagine my difficulty in deciding which fabric to choose!

It took some time, but I finally decided on the Dolce line from Grand Revival designer, Tanya Whelan. I almost chose the Nicey Jane fabric (it comes in my favorite fabric colors---green and pink), but I decided to go with something totally different than what I'd usually choose. And I ended up with Dolce. Thank you, Randi!

Ah, sweet Dolce, in shades of aqua, green, tan, and pink. I'm not sure what I'm going to make with it yet, but I'm open for suggestions. Oh, I received 1 yard each of 9 different prints, and yes, I exceeded my $50 spending limit, but I'm okay with that. :) By the way, in musical terms, dolce is pronounced dol-chay and means "gently and sweetly." How fitting for this beautiful Dolce fabric.

The day after Dolce arrived, I received a package in the mail from Sew Mama Sew bringing me the lovely Ava Rose fabric which is destined to be a wholecloth quilt for my bed. One side will be the red damask print and the other side will be the floral. I'm excited about making this quilt but don't plan to start it for a bit. Along with the quilt fabric, I received 6 free fat quarters from Sew Mama Sew, and I think they are just beautiful!

Ava Rose: Red Damask and Kitchen Rose

Six Fat Quarters: Which fabric line?

Lastly, I'm also excited because I earned enough Amazon gift cards through Swag Bucks to purchase a clock radio with an iPod dock to put on my nightstand. And it was totally free, thanks to Swag Bucks! The Amazon tracking information tells me that the radio will arrive on Saturday. This definitely has been a good mail week for me!

And now I think I'm going to get off the computer and go stare admiringly at my new fabric. How corny, huh? Just kidding, I'm going to go up to my sewing room and see if I can get some sewing motivation going. : )

happy sewing,

God knows how to make me feel loved...

2010-04-21T15:43:00.001-05:00

Look what He gave me on Sunday, via two sweet older ladies from church? This made my day!!

These ladies had a big bag of extra minky pieces and a big box of fleece pieces...for me! Most are 1/2 to 3/4 of a yard, full width.

Any good project ideas for the fleece?

I picked a reader for the Cloth magazine. It's Adin from It's Sewtastic! I love her sewing blog, by the way...definitely full of creativity and craftiness!

FINALLY, I got a picture of Marie and I in our matching jackets. I LOVE that we match...hehe!

Blessings,

Jessica

Cloth Review and Giveaway

2010-04-18T22:46:00.002-05:00

Last week I won a lovely set of fat quarters from Allegro Fabrics. I was so excited!! This is a new (to me!) shop that I stumbled across one day from a link on another site. They have a lovely site and some great fabrics. Check them out HERE.

Speaking of giveaways, one of the publicists at Cloth magazine kindly sent me their latest issue to look over. A new UK based magazine, Cloth's focus is unique to the craft world...it's all about up-cyclying, creative fashion, and learning new crafty skills.

Definitely useful for the beginner crafter, I liked how this issue had articles and recommendations for choosing and using your new sewing machine, and photo tutorials showing how to sew on buttons and do basic hand stitches. Some of the other fun features include zipper necklaces, paint and stencil re-makes for your favorite tops and shoes, interviews with trendy designers and vintage clothing shop owners, and how to-s for recycling thrift store treasures into modern day, edgy streetwear.

Overall, Cloth is a lot of fun, especially for the young and trendy folks. I'd love to pass on my issue to one of you! If the sound of this magazine appeals to you, leave a comment and I'll pick a reader on Wednesday.

Blessings,

Jessica

McCalls 5791

2010-04-13T22:58:00.004-05:00

I still haven't gotten any good pictures of Marie in her Easter dress. I completely missed the boat with taking them Easter morning before we left and the few snapshots I got after church, she has was so grumpy looking...anyway, the pattern was McCalls 5791.

(Mom, Katie, and Miss Grumpy!)

I love this dress! It's has a super full skirt and a few different options for personalizing. I made the sleeveless option and added tucks to the front bodice to give it a bit of design detail. Overall, I wanted it to be pretty simple because of the fabric...I adore the fabric...a soft pastel vintage style rose print. I felt like it really made the dress.

(The only happy picture I could get was when she was in the bouncy house after the church potluck. She thought that was amazing! Fabric is a Tanya Whelan print from Marie Madeline Fabrics.)

I finished the dancewear shrugs I was working on for my teacher friend. Oh my goodness...my new coverstitch made sewing this material a breeze! I couldn't believe the difference it made in hemming around the tops and bottoms of these...and they look so professional!! Now that I've finished these, I'm looking forward to working on some projects for myself and the kids using knits.

Last, I have to share a couple of kid pictures! This week we were so blessed by our neighbors who gave us this swing for the kids...they are in heaven!! First thing after breakfast, we have to go outside and swing! The swing on the left is just the right heigth for Elliot to get onto it by himself and even swing himself a bit. Of course, he prefers Mom to push him. =)

Happy Spring!!

Jessica

(Elliot has been spending lots of time playing with his little tractors in the back of my little garden bed. I am planting herbs in the front part of it, and the back part is his "dirt box" for now.)

And the winner is....

2010-04-12T19:25:00.006-05:00

Alisa!

I wish I could make a set of pattern weights for each of you who commented on my birthday giveaway. I've enjoyed visiting all--yes, all--your blogs and catching a glimpse into your lives.

Alisa, from Making More with Less, is the winner of the pattern weights. Visit Alisa's blog that she shares with her sister Suzanne to see all the pretty things they make. Alisa, I really like the red "Miss Mary" dress that you sewed for your daughter last month.

Email your address to me and I'll pop these pattern weights in the mail.

Happy Sewing,

And just because I have a hard time writing a post without a picture, here is one of my family (missing just one daughter) taken on Easter Sunday by a very talented young lady, Tyna. I love the bright colors--this picture reminds me of spring and colored eggs. :)

Review of Simplicity 2701

2010-04-10T14:02:00.005-05:00

Pattern Description:
Misses' Jacket with front, collar and sleeve variations and skirt.

Pattern Sizing:
Sizes 4, 6, 8,10, and 12. I made a straight size 10.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
This is the first time I've used a Project Runway pattern, and I was pleased with the in-depth instructions.

Fabric Used:
I used a textured cotton woven from Joann's.

Changes made:
-one button on the front instead of two
-lengthened the back facing as mentioned below

Construction and Conclusion:
I liked everything about the style the first time I saw it on Sharon's review, and I knew I wanted to make one in red.

I cut out this jacket 5 months ago, before Christmas. However, it got pushed to the back burner, and I didn't make much progress on it. Every time I walked into my sewing room, the pile of red fabric mocked me. Well, Easter has come and gone, and I knew I couldn't sew another thing before finishing the jacket. At this point, I decided to simply serge the seams instead of binding them as the pattern instructed. I just needed to get the jacket off my work table!

THE BEST CHANGE I made to the jacket was actually a suggestion that Lori made in her review of her lovely jacket: I lengthened the back facing to cover up the back seam and to conceal the top of the pleat. Why the pattern maker didn't do this in the first place is beyond me as it makes the jacket so much nicer on the inside.

I half wish I had taken the time to bind the seams, but really, I just needed to get this thing done. I'm happy with the finished jacket, even with the serged seams and my slightly crooked welt pockets. This was the first time for me to ever make welt pocket openings, so maybe I shouldn't be so hard on myself. : ) And yes, there are real pockets under the openings.

I like the button tab on the back, directly above the pleat.

The fabric is a deep red like in this picture.

Happy Sewing,

Giveaway Reminder

2010-04-08T13:04:00.002-05:00

Just a few more days until I draw a name for the Birthday Pattern Weights! Leave your comment on this post from a few days ago for your chance to win. Also, if you are a follower of SewChic, leave a second comment telling me so. Don't forget to leave your email address or link to your blog so that I can contact you if you are the winner. I have noticed that several of of the comments do not have any contact information. If you win, I need a way to notify you. :)

The Bazillion-and-One Fabric Flower Tutorial

2010-04-05T21:49:00.009-05:00

When I decided to add a big flower to Emily's dress, I searched online for a tutorial. Yes, a bazillion fabric flower tutorials can be found on the web, but I didn't find one quite like the way I made mine. So, ta-da, here is Fabric Flower Tutorial Bazillion-and-One! Maybe somebody will find it helpful. :)

Step #1: Cut fabric into a 2.5" x 45" strip using a rotary cutter.

Step #2: Turn under both short ends and press.

Step #3: Press fabric lengthwise.

Step #4: With a needle and strong thread sew gathering stitches along
the long, raw edge of fabric strip. I used upholstery thread.

Step #5: Pull up gathering stitches, being careful not to twist the fabric strip.

Step #6: Form the gathered strip into a flower.

Step #7: Secure the layers together with a number of stitches.

Step #8: Sew a button, flower, or some other do-dad on the front.
I decided not to use this ribbon rose but used a button instead (next picture).

Step #9: Last step, and I forgot to take a picture of it, but sew a pin-back or a safety pin onto the back. To prevent the flower from sagging, don't sew the pin at center back, but sew it upwards of center.

This could also be made into a hair clip instead of a brooch.

I am very happy with the way this Miss Madeline pattern came out. For it's simplicity and ease of sewing, I think it turned out quite beautiful. I will definitely be make more dresses from this pattern.

happy sewing,

The Verdict : L.O.V.E.

2010-04-03T14:55:00.005-05:00

~The Dress is Finished and I Love It~

The Pattern: Quick and Easy! "Miss Madeline" from The Handmade Dress
The Fabric: "Love" by Amy Butler
The Flower: Tutorial Coming Soon!!!!!!
The Verdict: L.O.V.E.

Note: I just found out that Wee Share is hosting a giveaway of the COMPLETE line of patterns from The Handmade Dress. The Madeline pattern is the only pattern I have from the lineup, so you can be sure that I signed up! I would love to make the Miss Mary dress next!