A quilt many years in the making

I spent Saturday helping my sister finish a quilt she started in the sixth grade (many years ago). My parents recently moved and my Mom found the squares buried in a box. My sister's sixth grade sense of style (very pink) is much different from her current style (more modern), but she still decided to finish it.


Corinne is glad she did. Here it is prequilted. I think my sister is relieved that it's finally finished. Corinne watched the quilt being made. She even made her own sewing machine out of wood blocks and worked on a pretend blanket while mommy was working on hers. I love that she's curious about sewing and hope she still is when she's big enough to have a real sewing machine.

Where has the week gone?

I had one of those utterly fantastic moments yesterday when I realized it was Wednesday after thinking it was Tuesday all day long. Love it when that happens (hate it when it's the other way around).


Last weekend I attended the DC Craft Mafia's Holiday Craft Fair where I met Katie of See Katie Sew fame. Katie and her family are so nice! Katie's goods are even more beautiful in person than they are online. I think I touched every bag she had out just because they were so pretty. Luckily I arrived early enough to snag the scarf I eyed on her blog last week. I bought it just in time as it has been really cold here. I've worn the scarf almost every day this week and at work where I don't think they believe in heat.

I was hoping to make this dress this Fall but I think I might wait until the Spring when it's more practical to wear. Or not. I tend to sew whatever I feel like sewing at the time. I am trying to be more disciplined about it, but where's the fun in that? What's your approach to sewing?

Lastly, the randomly chosen number for the winner of the flower pin was 1. Raesha, look out for an e-mail from me!

Fall Swap Sent

Have I gushed enough about the book, Stitch and Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker? No? Well, let me gush some more then. I participated in Chara's Fall Swap. When I think of Fall, I think of sweaters and scarves and beautiful leaf colors. So for this swap, I made my partner, Joy, a one skein scarf (the third one I've made in as many months), and a crocheted flower pin in Fall colors using patterns from the book. I also included some caramel apple cider candles (yummm), a fall stamp, some stickers and ribbon. I hope Joy likes the package.

I really enjoyed making the flower pin and am looking for an excuse to make another. If you would like to receive a flower pin, please leave a comment by midnight EST on Wednesday, November 7th. I'll announce the randomly chosen winner on Thursday.

Circle Applique Skirt

As evidenced above, the idea for this skirt has been brewing in my head since at least the 5th of October. I am fairly positive I drew it before, but my "Ideas and Inspirations" catalog currently consists of bits of paper divided unevenly among several bags and bookshelves. It is not an organization system I'd recommend.


I really enjoyed taking the skirt from idea to finished garment. I used Simplicity 4036 for the A-line skirt pattern. The circles, about five inches wide, were made from the "wrong" side of the denim and go all the way around the hem. I almost made the circles smaller after a friend said it reminded her of a poodle skirt. However, I decided to stick to my original idea. I'm glad I did. I like the whimsy the large circles add to a basic denim skirt.

As for the rest of the list, I gave up on the dress and the remaining two items are still on my to do list, wherever it is.

Pizza and a sneak peek

Don't let the bad picture fool you, this pizza was delicious. I used this recipe with a few modifications (more cheese and roasted red peppers). I can't believe I've never cooked a butternut squash before. I can't wait to try more recipes with this fabulous fall vegetable.

Here's a sneak peek of a little project I completed this weekend. Can you guess what it is?

Oh Amy B, why do you keep doing this to me?

Amy Butler is hands down my favorite textile designer. I discovered her about five years ago when I was just getting into sewing. She was and still is a constant source of inspiration. But come on, sometimes a girl can get a little overwhelmed by all those beautiful fabrics and patterns that keep coming out of her studio.


How does she do it? I often wonder. Just when I build up enough resistance to the temptation to buy all of her fabrics and patterns, she comes out with more. I give in, my efforts to resist are futile.


I love the all the possibilities of her new patterns (coming soon she says). Looks like my birthday and Christmas wish list just got a little longer. If you haven't seen it already, check out her article on The Quilter's Buzz.

Weekend wrapup (aka, feeling fine)

This weekend, I didn't turn on the TV until night had fallen. This weekend, I didn't let myself get overwhelmed by sewing possibilities. This weekend, I did shimmy to Feist while pressing seams, I finished a dress, I sewed a seam on a sweater, I cleaned my closets (gasp!!! talk about overwhelming!), I did a little pattern therapy, wined and dined, watched cheesy movies, and caught up with friends.

I had a great weekend. How was yours?

I also snapped a shot of the appliqued t-shirt I picked up at the Crafty Bastards Fair a few weeks ago. It's from SaltLick NYC and I love it.

The state of things

I know it's been crickets over here latey. Here's a recap of what's been going on behind the scenes. I'm nearly done with my frou frou sweater. I'm a little amazed and relieved that it actually looks like a sweater.

I've also dusted off the sewing machine and have something in the works.

Oh, and I'm loving my new fall shoes.

Duds

There are two reasons why I haven't been posting. First, our AC broke a month ago and our landlord hasn't replaced it yet. This wasn't really a problem until it hit 90 degrees. I don't know many people that want to do much of anything when it feels like 95 degrees inside. Second, the things that I have sewn lately are duds. I'm so used to showing garments I'm actually proud to wear on this blog that it didn't dawn on me until late this week that I should post the duds too. I've learned to sew mainly through trial and error and I'm still learning. I bring you my most recent example:


Butterick 4973. I intended to make this dress with some black matte jersey. Instead of measuring twice and cutting once, I just cut the size I normally cut for Simplicity patterns. Not such a good idea. As soon as I tried on the bodice I knew I had made a mistake. I would show you, but I don't want to show that much skin on this ol' blog. Instead, I illustrated the problem in the picture above. See that white line across her bodice? That is where my fabric ends, right at the very bottom of my bust. If I were to continue sewing even with a small seam allowance the seam would fall across my bust. I don't think that's flattering for any figure. Lesson learned, measure measure measure!

Am I bummed by the experience? Nah. If I were really excited about the pattern or the fabric, I might be a little upset. Maybe that's why I didn't measure enough. Hmmm, perhaps that's the real lesson, only sew patterns and fabric you're excited about. Something to ponder...

Don't hate me because I'm beautiful

I got it!

I finally got my ravelry invite! I've only had a chance to browse briefly through the site, but I've already seen something I want to make. Work on my frou frou sweater is slow though and I don't want to pick up another crochet project until I finish the one at hand.


Have a great weekend folks.

Work in Progress

A week without sewing equals a week's worth of crochet. I'm currently working on the Frou Frou sweater from Stitch n' Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker. I've never crocheted anything beyond a bag or scarf, so I feel like I'm taking a big leap here.


Let's hope it at least resembles the pictured garment when I'm finished.

8 things

It may have been quiet on this blog but it hasn't been quiet in real life. Last weekend Peter and I decided to rearrange the apartment, including new furniture and all. Ikea always seems like a good idea until fourteen hours later when you've put the front beams on the back side of an entertainment center. My sewing "room" is a secondary storage area until we find the fifty hours to put the remaining items together. So while I can see my sewing machine over all the boxes, I can't actually use it in the apartment's current state.

What a perfect time for a meme. Christina tagged me to tell you eight things about myself. Here goes...

1. I get extremely cranky when I'm hungry. Like, monster cranky. I carry granola bars in my purse in case I'm stuck somewhere and can't get to food in time. Sad, right?

2. I'm terrible at small talk.

3. I was born on the same day as my Dad. He also happens to be a twin so I share my birthday with my Aunt as well.

4. I started running four years ago. I was having a hard time falling asleep because I was so antsy with energy. One evening I decided to run around the block to get rid of some of my energy. It worked and I've been running ever since. I don't consider myself a runner runner though. I'm not hard core about it.

5. I have a Masters in Survey Methodology. If you are scratching your head thinking, "what the bleep?", don't worry, you're not alone. About 99% of the people I tell have the same reaction.

6. My boyfriend says I'm "at-risk" of becoming a vegetarian. I'm extremely picky about meat, especially processed meat. Oddly I'll eat tuna and crab out of a can, but nothing else.

7. I've never been camping. My friends are always surprised when I tell them this because they say I seem like the person who would like camping. A camping trip is on my "must do this Fall" list. We'll see how well my friends know me!

8. I would usually rather be sewing, crocheting, or some sort of crafting rather than doing the activity at hand.

Now I'm tagging these people who I'd love to know eight things about:

Katie
Diann
Mimi
Raesha
Mari

Don't feel obligated to dish though.

This post is also a good time to acknowledge the Rockin' Blogger award Cidell gave me in August. Thanks Cidell! I'm supposed to pass on the torch, but so many people have gotten this award I can't keep it straight who hasn't.

One skein scarves

Lately all I've been wanting to do is crochet. I'm sure it's the changing seasons.

Yarn always brings the kitties out. Sorry, Kitty, these aren't for you!

Have a great weekend folks.

Pattern information: One Skein Scarf from Stitch N' Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker

Yarn used: Patons Classic Merino Wool

Pattern rating: Easy Peasy!

No longer afraid of knits

Remember this debacle? I have to be honest and say I was more than a little disappointed. The experience put a little doubt/fear of knits in my mind. So this pattern sat cut out for a few weeks before I rallied up the courage to make another attempt at sewing knits. I used a lot of the advice I received after my first failed attempt. In particular, I used a walking foot and ditched the stretch stitch in favor of the zig-zag stitch and overlock stitch on the serger. Guess what, it was a success! I can't say I feel comfortable sewing knits. I think I need a few more successful knit garments before I can say that. I can say, however, that I can sew knits.

It definitely helped that I used a good pattern, Simplicity 3678, View A. I had to take in a few inches at the waist and hip, but that was the only alteration I made. I'm happy I faced up to my fear of knits because I love this dress. The cut is so flattering and so comfortable. I have plans to make View B and C, at least sometime before next spring.

It's here, right?

When I walked by an open window this morning, I felt it. There's a definite chill to the air. Fall! I can't really put into words how I feel other than excited. I love this season, I truly do. I'm giddy thinking about sweaters and pumpkins, scarves and hot cocoa, holidays and friends. I'm even more excited about Fall this year because it's the first Fall that I don't have school. This means I can do a lot of fall sewing and celebrating this year. I've got grand plans for apple picking trips and scary movie nights. I can't wait. Does anyone else feel this excited about the upcoming season? Speaking of Fall sewing, here's what's on my short list (subject to change as inspiration hits):


Simplicity 3622, View D. I actually cut out the fabric for this last night. I'm slightly concerned about my fabric choice, but I'm just going to see what happens and hope for the best.


Simplicity 3678, all views. I actually made the short sleeve version this week. Look out for a pattern review and pictures soon. You can probably figure out that I liked the pattern if I plan to make the other long sleeved views.

McCall's 5466, View C.


McCall's 5477, View C. I plan to sew this up in velvet or corduroy. Diann has this on her short list too.

I've also been itching to make a quilt for a while. I am having the hardest time choosing the fabrics though (too many choices!). I may just give in and buy a quilt kit. Would that be so horrible?

Happy Saturday everyone.

Turning three

A very special girl (my niece) turned three last week. To celebrate the occasion, I made her something extra special.

A patchwork bag! But wait, what is that peeping out of the top?

Why, it's Olive and Archie! They were excited about meeting Corinne. Would she accept them with loving arms, they wondered?

I think she did.

Doll Pattern: Olive and Archie from Wee Wonderfuls

Fabric Used: Quilting cotton and flannel from Joanns

Pictures tell a thousand words

I know you all have been on the edge of your seats waiting for these pictures. To see more, visit my flickr page.

I feel like I've finally gotten back into the groove of things around here. I've been sewing and have plenty to show, but you'll just have to wait on the edge of your seats for those too. Don't worry, you won't be waiting long.

Back from Greece

Greece was beautiful. The food was delicious. The people were friendly. Luckily, Athens and the islands we visited were unaffected by the fires happening on much of the mainland. We traveled to three different islands. Each island was so different from the other that I really can't decide which one I liked the most.

The picture above is a view from our hotel in Santorini. Incredible! I made the skirt I'm wearing out of some linen using a pattern I made from "Sew What Skirts!". This skirt and the dresses I made were perfect for the hot breezy weather. I'll be posting more pictures of our travels this week after I catch up on things around here (sleep being number one).

Ready to go

The knit dress didn't happen. I did figure out how to properly sew with knits, but unfortunately I strayed too far from a pattern and ended up with a very maternity looking dress. That's ok, I still have this and this. Yesterday I stitched up these eye masks from Amy Butler's In Stitches to help us sleep on the flight to Europe. I have never really been one to sleep well while travelling, but these give me hope (along with ear plugs). This was my first time quilting anything. Who knew it could be so fun?

Is it sad that when we started planning our vacation, I was worried about being without a craft activity for too long? I have been saving these crochet projects for a few weeks now so that I could bring them on vacation. I'm not sure if it's ambitious to have three projects in mind, but I'm sure I'll get through at least one.

I wish you all a very happy end of August. See you in September!

All about my bodkin (well, almost)

Wouldn't this be the perfect dress for Greece? I thought so too, so I made my own version.

I used New Look 6696 and some linen blend fabric. The dress was really easy to put together, especially with the bodkin I received from the creative Caroline. What a silly name for such a handy tool! A bodkin, in case you don't know, is a little set of tweezers that you can clamp shut over elastic so you can easily pull it through casings. This pattern calls for five casings on the back, so the bodkin came in extra handy.

I'm really happy with the finished dress and can't wait to wear it on the streets of Santorini.

Thanks for all of your suggestions about working with knits from my last post. I was finally able to make a decent stretch and zig zag stitch, but I do have a bit of doubt still leftover. I will definitely be taking a sewing with knits class this Fall. Unfortunately I had to throw in the towel on the wine colored jersey dress because I completely bonked up one of the bodice pieces and didn't have any extra fabric. I wouldn't be a true fabricholic if I didn't buy two colors of jersey though, now would I? I have some black jersey that I will make a second attempt on this weekend.

It's not you, it's me, I think

Dear Sewing Machine,

We've had some times, haven't we? You were my rebound after I was forced to break up with my old machine. We've sewn many bags together, and we're starting to get up there with clothes, aren't we? For the most part, you've been pretty good to me. There was that time when I pushed you too far (read: sewing multiple layers of vinyl) to which you retaliated by throwing off your timing (side effects: wonky stitches and buttonholes). Fortunately, after a day in the sewing machine spa, you were as good as new. Since then I've been sure to use you according to your manufacturer's guidelines. That's why I'm blaming myself for the wonky stitches you sewed this evening when I attempted to sew up the jersey dress. This is the first time I've ever sewn jersey so in all honesty I have no idea what I'm doing. However, I do know enough to know that the stretch stitch you made tonight was just unacceptable. What I don't understand is why it worked wonderfully on my scrap piece, but on the actual garment it was a complete disaster (DISASTER!). Before I put all the blame on you (read: throw you out the window), I'm going to sign up for a sewing with knits class. Maybe I'll learn some tricks that you'll appreciate. If not, well, I just don't see a future in us if we can't make a good knit garment together.

Sincerely,

Stephanie

Yes, people, my first attempt at sewing with knits was a complete disaster. Looks like the jersey dress that would be so perfect for Greece isn't going to happen. Any one out there have suggestions on working with knits?

Oh la la

Can you believe I've had this shirred fabric all summer but only sewed it up last week? One seam and a hem, it doesn't get easier than that.

I almost caved in, but not quite

We're back from Cleveland (the drive, the city, and the wedding were all great), but not for long. We're leaving soon for a long vacation in Greece. I am very very excited. Everyone keeps telling me it's beautiful and I have no reason not to believe them. After the tickets were bought and the hotels were booked, the big question arised: What will I wear?

Last week during an unavoidable trip to the mall (oh how I loathe the mall), I found this great jersey dress at Gap. This dress would be perfect to just roll up and throw in the suitcase, and it's the perfect weight for warm climates. Even though I signed The Pledge, I must admit I considered buying it for about a second. One look at the price tag ($39.50) was all I needed to find the resolve to make the dress instead.


I'll be using Simplicity 3831 for the pattern and some super soft rayon jersey from Fabric.com. I have a few other sundresses I've made over the past couple of weeks as well. I'll be showing pictures this week so stay tuned.

Speaking of dresses, have you seen the amazing version of Simplicity 3835 made by Lula Louise? I'm adding that pattern to my collection.

Kathy's bag

I made this bag nearly a year ago for my sister Kathy's birthday. She has always been a big fan of my creative endeavors. When I decided to start selling my bags last year (which I've since put on hold in order to take care of this business), she was right behind me with a ton of ideas and support. She's pretty crafty herself. For example, she made her own curtains and she made my niece's and nephew's crib bedding, which she literally put sweat and tears into. She also has an amazing house which she's worked very hard on. Currently her and her husband are building their very own potting shed! For her birthday she requested a bag with a zipper closure, something I had never done up to that point. I've always designed my own bag patterns, so it never occurred to me to consult a pattern. It took a little time to get my head around how I would construct it properly, but after a little thought I figured it out. I also designed the bag so that she could change the ribbon up for a completely different look. The bag was a huge success. She still loves it and uses it as her primary bag to this day.

Peter and I are heading to Cleveland this weekend for a friend's wedding. I didn't have any trouble packing my bags. I'll be rockin' the handmade dresses: I'm wearing this to the rehearsal dinner and this to the wedding.

Next week I promise to share photos of all the projects I've been working on. Have a great weekend folks.

A room without a view but with some very cool stuff

This is the view from my kitchen to the backroom. This room may not look like much, but it holds things very dear to my heart: my sewing machine, fabric, and even Bo is there more often than not. Peter and I reorganized the apartment last weekend and the backroom became my new sewing room. Oh to have four walls! No more sewing in a dark corner in the dining room for me.

I have plans to really spruce this space up. Those plans are on hold though until after I get back from vacation. Sewing sundresses for vacation is the priority around here these days (see that one on the ironing board?).

Celebrate your accomplishments (Part Two)

I am truly inspired by all the comments left on this post. The accomplishments you shared ranged from learning a new craft, starting to exercise more, finishing a project, raising children, making that phone call, and following through on a dream. This proves you don't have to climb Mt. Everest to accomplish something. We accomplish things everyday. Indeed, I think the best accomplishments are those which oftentimes go unnoticed by most. I think we ought to give ourselves more credit, don't you?

Without further ado, using the Random Number Generator, I drew the number 1. Tiffany, this sweet bag will be on it's way to you very soon.

Thank you all for your comments and for taking the time to read this little ol' blog.

Biased question

Do you pre-wash packaged poly/cotton bias-tape? The label says it' colorfast, but it says nothing about shrinking. Your two cents are appreciated.

I took the pledge

I, Stephanie, pledge that I shall abstain from the purchase of "new" manufactured items of clothing, for the period of 2 months. I pledge that I shall refashion, renovate, recycle preloved items for myself with my own hands in fabric, yarn or other medium for the term of my contract. I pledge that I will share the love and post a photo of my refashioned, renovoated, recylcled, crafted or created item of clothing on the Wardrobe Refashion blog, so that others may share the joy that thy thriftyness brings! Signed, Stephanie.

Celebrate your accomplishments

As most of you who have been following this blog for the past couple of months know, I completed my Masters a few weeks ago. I suspected that in a few weeks time, it would slowly start to sink in. My suspicions were correct. No. more. school. Time. Oh precious time! Time to create and to read and to do whatever I please. Time to do things that I would normally feel guilty doing because I always had a paper to write or an article to read or an exam to study for hanging over my head. Don't get me wrong, I think education is a wonderful thing. I was just ready to be done.


With all my new found time, I whipped up this summery tote using some Amy Butler fabric I had in my stash. I am giving this bag away to one random winner. To be entered for the drawing, please leave a comment by 10 pm EDT, Sunday August 5th. As this giveway is celebrating an accomplishment, feel free to write about an accomplishment in your life. Good luck!