Saturday Stitching

I was able to work on a few projects today...while adding to my wardrobe! Yippee! I will look cute on the next few #datedays with hubby!

Both projects were easy and quick! The linen shorts took about an hour to complete. And, the 'playsuit' took under two hours.

In the midst of me sewing the jumpsuit, my machine slowed down quite a bit. An indication that I will be replacing the motor soon. Of course I have a backup while my featherweight gets a new heart!

Until next time...HAPPY SEWING!

Sewing Bits and Other Stuff

This past week I accomplished completing some projects.

Ruffled scarf,
Asterisk wall quilt, and
Receiving blankets for a friend!

Oh, and we had a visitor come and hang out ALL day on my window!

HAPPY SEWING! Have a great week!

Pillowcases for my Young'uns

I've needed to work on something personal and instant gratification. I whipped up both pillowcases on the serger and used the extra fabric for the cuff.

Charlie (from about 4 years old) has been intrigued by the solar system. He will be my NASA engineer. ;D

Sewing at New Heights

This past week I've been sewing stilt walker costumes. Two sets of top, pants, and the wrap (not shown).

One sock a year later

...and am truly starting on the second to the pair! I had a lot of 'false' starts (knitting the cuff and having to take it apart because of a mistake). Then, life happens...I just keep going!

Walkaway Dress

Butterick 4790

I've been wanting to sew this dress since last year! And, finally...I made my muslin. Now, to look through my stash and find pretty fabric! I planned to be a good steward and use what I have on hand for my projects; only to buy when necessary! ;D

This pattern is simple and quick which means I can make more than one dress using lots of pretty fabrics!

I agree with all my sewing blogger colleagues...that you should ALWAYS sew a muslin first before cutting your pattern from the 'good' fabric!

I will update when I find a fabric...HAPPY SEWING!

Instant Gratification

I've been under the weather a bit.

And, my constant project at the moment is knitted dishcloths.

I wanted to sew something quick! I just got my new biz cards and needed a new card holder!

So, back to bed, I go to rest and knit more dishcloths...satisfied!

HAPPY CREATING!

Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year and hope all is well thus far!

2011 ended with great accomplishments creatively (and, personally)!

I love making/giving (and, receiving) handmade gifts!  For my family in Chicago, I purchased fleece to make throws.  For my niece and youngest nephew, I added binding (cotton and microsuede fabrics) to the edge of their throws.

For my dad, I used a solid blue cut of fleece and a cut of  flannel shirting fabric for the backing.  No binding, I "quick-turned" the edge!

For my sister's throw, I simply fringed the edge using pinking shears.  It turned out lovely!  And, for my eldest nephew's throw (not shown), I fringed the edges of his solid blue fleece using regular shears.

They all are enjoying their throws!

In between Christmas sewing, I purchased flannel and cotton remnants from JoAnn's to make boxers for my son.  When my two youngest daughters knew I was sewing boxers; they wanted boxers, too!

I found a really nice cut of pink flannel with black silhouette print of ladies on them in the remnant bin and made a pair for the 2nd oldest daughter...she loved them!  NOTE: if you are going to shop from the remnant bins, make sure that you have at least 26" or more of fabric; or just purchase 7/8 yard of your fabric choice!

It's a really simple and free pattern on Burdastyle; Michael Boxers pattern!  I am still sewing boxers!  Valentine's Day is fast approaching!  A nice present for your hubby!

Since I was on a flannel "thing" AND my brother and his wife had their first baby, I have been sewing cloth diapers!  There is a great and free pattern, Rita's Rump Pocket!  I found her instructions to be very easy to follow and they were pretty quick to make.

I will be making inserts for these diapers using the microcloths (?) that you use to dry your car.  You can purchase a pack at Wal-Mart (Automotive section) cheap!  When sewing with this pattern, I suggest sewing the channel for the elastic.  It looks better and it snugs the legs better - no leakage!  I will be making more of these throughout the year to donate!

Until next time....HAPPY SEWING/CREATING!