MSL Creations

Marine Ball Dress 2010 in progress

2010-10-27T15:58:00.000-07:00

So after 9 years of marriage, dh has finally agreed to go to one of those fancy balls the military likes to throw. Of course, it might be more that his office has pretty much mandated everyone go.

I figured I'd make my dress. I had planned on using a purple taffeta that I have collecting dust in my stash. I also figured I'd splurge on shoes since I was making the dress. Well my shoe shopping expedition lead to these:

I couldn't resist them. No- they didn't have my size in black. Plus they were not as dramatic.

Okay, so on to the dress. I now needed a dress to match my red shoes out of my stash. Unfortunately the only thing I had with enough yardage was green silk. Yeah, NO. So I remembered that I still had the bridesmaid dress I wore to my bf's wedding almost 6 years ago, also collecting dust.

That dress was a size 22/24ish since I was almost 7 months pregnant with whirlwind #1 at the wedding. There was more than enough fabric with a bit of creative cutting for the dress I had been envisioning. I found a beautiful red silk to use with the brown.

Now I know I'm a few years behind the times but I really wanted an off-the-shoulder dress. I had planned on a super simple off-the-shoulder with a straight bottom and a slit. There was a pattern I could have purchased that would have worked but I decided to give my Wild Ginger Software a twirl.

When I got it almost 2 years ago I had done a sloper but didn't get very far after finding out I was pregnant with my second whirlwind. It was sort of fun finding out that my measurements are almost exactly the same- my hips were actually an inch smaller now! So I didn't bother with a new sloper, for now.

On to the dress:
the shoulder is just pinned for now. I need to go back and iron those seams better, I swear they are not as wiggly in person. I took special care to make sure the front was all on grain too. Uhm...

I'm planning on inserting boning to hold up the down side- I'm thinking thats what is causing the side bunching. But I love this view! See the seams aren't wonky.

And a semi-side view.

What do you think?

Patricia Tunic

2010-07-05T16:12:00.001-07:00

This tunic was one of the 3 items I actually finished for my mini swap. It was done when I posted about the mini SWAP but forgot about blogging about it.

Anyway the pattern is Sis & Bloom's Patricia Tunic. Its an instant download on YCMT and is fabulous! The directions are an overwhelming 200+ pages, well really its only 50 pages- the rest is the pattern itself. With these directions a beginner could easily sew this up.

I made the size Medium since I didn't want it too big, at the time my measurements were between Medium and Large. Even so, I found it a bit roomy through the shoulders. Since then I've lost weight and need to definitely take it in through the shoulder area. I'll be morphing the Small and Medium together for my next tunic.

I made 2 other alterations for fit and necessity. I'm still nursing my munchkin so I lowered the front opening to enable that. I added about 3 inches to the front facing and slit, very easy to do.

The other alteration was to help the fit with my sway back. I put princess seams in the back so that I could get a better fit.

The one problem I had with the tunic was the opening. It wants to fold open when I wear it. I'm not sure how to fix that problem. Still I love this tunic. I wore it with leggings and a nursing tank this past summer/spring. I'll definitely be making more for next spring/summer. Actually I'm thinking of using this pattern as a base for a nightgown I want to make.

Buttericks 4668 (OOP)

2010-06-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Nothing has really been exciting me lately so I've been really lax on my blogging- not that that is anything new. I've been working on a ton of stuff. I have the kids' quilts 90% done. I'll finish the Serger Quilt posts soon.

So in the mean time, I got this gorgeous wool jersey from Fashion Fabrics Club last week. Its so soft, dreamy. I decided to make myself a simple raglan tee with it. It turned out a tiny bit long but otherwise fits great! I used this OOP Buttericks pattern I bought at a thrift store for 25 cents. Its a great pattern. This top is the second one I've made. The pattern has darts on the shoulders which I did in the first version but I took out for this one. I like it much better this way. I also bound the neck instead of just hemming it.

Here's a terrible pic of me wearing the shirt with a sweater vest I made as well, but I'll post that in another blog. Not very fashionable but I love it, so cozy and warm.

Oh, and I had enough bits left over to make some tights for my little one. I cloth diaper so these wool tights are great under the wool skirties she wears over her dipes. I think I'm going to have to buy more of this jersey to make us both some more stuff!

Uhm... February is almost done

2010-02-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

And I am far from done! I finally got all the patterns traced that I need for my mini-swap. Yesterday the pesky small child slept a good 2 hours so I was able to get 4 items 90% cut out. Still need to cut the linings and interfacing. Both pants are cut so I'm going to start those as soon as I get a chance to sew.

I did actually complete a few things not related this month. I recycled a Hawaiian shirt for ds for Hawaiian shirt day tomorrow. I used one of dh's old ones, even kept the tags and everything. I'll post it later- internet is running too slow right now. I also attached the buttons on my sewing machine! First time I've ever done that. It wasn't too hard, definitely will be doing it again.

I also finished up some random UFOs and parts of diapers (waiting on snaps to finish). I used one of the Made by Mama tags I got from Diaper Diva on ds' jellybean jamma shorts, he was so thrilled. Those have been in the UFO pile since about May. He's worn them to bed every night since, uhm... better do the laundry. ;)

Right now I'm waiting for the plumbers to finish so I can maybe, maybe sew before the baby wakes. Spoke too soon- I'm hearing whimpers. Oh well, there's always tomorrow.

Mini-Swap for me

2010-02-13T05:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe its already mid-February, eeck! I had decided that February I would do a mini-swap as part of the Stash Game on Sewing Mamas but alas I did not sign up. Turns out thats a good thing since I've sewn 2 items since the beginning of February, well excluding the 2-3 diapers I finished up.

Still I'm going to work on the mini-swap since I find myself back at my pre-pregnancy weight with little to wear. My pre-pregnancy clothes are winter clothes and it is summer here. My summer clothes are either too big or too small, as my pre-pregnancy weight was still 25 pounds over my ideal weight, which is what I was the previous summer. So I just need a few items to last through about mid-April when the weather starts to turn. Plus I'm nursing so all my tops need to be nursing friendly- I do not do the pull up thing, no way my tummy gets exposed!

I've already picked out the patterns and fabrics. I've even completed the first item, the Patricia Tunic out of the linen blend on top of the stack. For the tops, I'm also going to make the Otto nursing top again (I've modified it so hopefully it will work better this time) in the green/blue/cream knit, Vogue 2980 in the cream knit, the Jalie Criss-cross top in the black with grey & white circles/dots, Kwik Sew 3434 in the blue/cream/white with fuschia flowers, and Burda WOF 3/08 #128 in the purple. For the pants I'm making Burda WOF 3/08 #126 in a Navy blue Faille and Ottobre 2/2009 #12 in denim. Everything should work great together. And for a dress I'm planning on making a combo of two of the dresses from Burda WOF 9/09 out of the paisley floral.

I also have accessories and a UFO on my list but we'll see how far I get. I've already been side tracked a bit with Sophie Tunic for my cousin's baby and I have 2 more cut out, one for my niece and one for my dd. I think I'd better just cut my stuff so that I have it ready to sew when I get the chance. I'll post as I can.

Serger Quilt part 3

2010-02-13T05:38:00.000-08:00

I'm just putting in a place holder. I'm sure there's some fancy way to move the post back down so they are all together later but I'll just do this.

I came to a stop on the quilt b/c we moved and its now summer where we are. Knowing DS the minute I finish it he'll want to sleep with it and then he'll be plastered in sweat by morning. Yuck. Excuses, excuses!

Serger Quilt Part 2

2009-11-14T21:46:00.000-08:00

So now we sew it together. I love how quickly serger quilts come together. I'm all about the quick project. Of course, this would have been much quicker if I didn't have two rugrats limiting my sewing time.

I think this is Step 4:
Lay out the strips in the order you want them to be. I put it on my bed and tried to make sure there weren't matching squares across from eachother. Of course I ended up sewing them out of order so I did get two squares the same across from eachother, luckily with the black between them it isn't that noticeable. (No, I was not about to rip out serger stitching to fix it.)

Step 5: Serge quilt middle
For the first seam layer the pieces in this way- backing 1 face up, backing 2 face down, batting, strip 1 face up, strip 2 face down, batting.

Serge it together on one side. Then open up the seam and check carefully that you've serged all the fabric, go back and if you have any holes.

Continue adding the rows- backing fabric face up, quilt, new strip face down, batting

And that is where I am. The middle is serged together. Stay tuned for the next installment.

Serger Quilt part 1

2009-11-14T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm coming out of the wood-work! Seriously been busy sewing, having a baby and trying to sew! Anyway, before this one popped I promised my older one that I would make him a quilt. So here it is, I thought I'd show you all how I made it just in case anyone is interested. Its not done so you'll have to wait to see the finished product. The picture above is just the middle part laid out.

Step 1: cut out squares
The colorful prints were 6x6, I basically used whatever leftover scraps plus a few purchased pieces that he picked out.
The blacks are 6x8, I just didn't want to have to line up any seams. These were all purchase for this project.

Step 2: sew the strips, I serged them then ironed the seams

Step 3: measure your strips, then cut the backing and batting in 6xlength of strips
I used Warm and Natural for the batting and a print cotton fabric for the backing

more later...

Maternity SWAP finished

2009-07-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

I finished these up last month but haven't gotten over here to post. Someday I'll actually get more up on this. Anyway, the SWAP was great! I wear most of these clothes all the time. It so fun to have a wardrobe that I created and with everything working together its a no-brainer getting dressed.

Well I'm going to try and put up the reviews on pattern review over the next few weeks so I'll link them here when I do that. Most of the pieces were from Ottobre Women- LOVE that magazine. I even used a few non-maternity patterns and the modifications seem to work!

I'm hoping to do a post-maternity SWAP in the Fall. We'll see how things go.

Burda Style Vintage Bathing Suit- Maternity-ized

2009-05-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

Update! 5/9/09 Here are the modeling shots and a quick review. (Sorry about the picture quality, my editing software is on the computer packed away for our move.)

I've actually worn this twice to the pool so far. It definitely is low cut, but more to the point does absolutely nothing to hold the girls in. While I haven't spilled out, its been close so I'm going to go back and see if I can't tighten up the bust. It would be fine if I was just "sunning" or gently "bathing" but I swim with a 4-year-old that feels the need to climb and jump all over me. Other than the bust, the rest is great. With the leg bands the coverage in the rear is great plus the bands are actually really comfy.

So I have actually finished a few things lately. This swimsuit was one of those. I love the way it turned out, no modeling pic as I keep forgetting to take one, I will post it when I take it, promise.

I used Kitty Couture's review/tutorial to help me figure out how to put the suit together. Of course, me being me, had to make things difficult. I had every intention of making this last year but never got around to it. So I really had no idea how it would fit. After looking through BurdaStyle's pics and reading Cidell's review, then decided to jump in anyway.

I started with just basically making the pattern bigger- added 1/2 inch all around and lengthened the torso by 1.5 inches.

Then I decided that I didn't like the crotch being a separate piece and attached it to the front.

So then I was ready to make it into a Maternity suit. I decided to go with the widening and lengthening plan. I added another 2 inches of length and about 3 inches of width.

So then I cut and of course, I wasn't paying attention so I cut 2 of the bust pieces- you only need one. I did cut full lining for the front and the back.

Here is my new front piece.

I put it together using Kitty's instructions for the most part. The crotch seam I did by layering the back right side up, the front right side down, then the linings on top. That way I got an enclosed crotch seam.
I loved the way she did the bust so the seam was enclosed so I did that too.

Then I added the straps, definitely should have made these longer as they barely make a knot around my neck. Also the back straps didn't fit- those were definitely too short. In the end it didn't matter since adding the 1.5 inches in length made this suit too high in the back for those straps anyway.

After trying it on I realized that the bust was just too big and baggie. The tab, which I waited to put on until the last, definitely helped but made the suit just a bit too low cut for me. I have to swim with a 4-year-old constantly pulling at me, I didn't think the girls would stay in under those circumstances. So I did have to put a seam in the middle to pull the bust in and then just covered it with the tab. Worked okay, I'm trying to think of a different method for the next one.

Also I had not intended on doing the bound legs but turns out that there just wasn't enough booty coverage for me. So I added the same legs that Kitty did. It actually looks really cute that way. Of course, I if I decide to do it again I'll take some out of the front since there is a bit too much fabric in the front along the legs.

So here's the back. I promise to post a modeled pic soon.
I am definitely planning on making this again. I don't think this version will last me to the end. I still need more tummy room so I'll add more width and a touch more length to the next version. It is really darling in person.

Lots of cutting and sewing- not a lot of finishing!

2009-05-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

For some reason I'm on a roll tracing patterns and cutting things out but just am not getting things finished. Urgh....

This is my current UFO list:
1 maternity shirt waiting on hems
1 pj shirt for ds waiting on hems
3 small footie pjs for baby waiting on snaps
1 cool black jacket for niece waiting on snaps
1 diaper cover waiting on snaps
3 embroidered PUL diaper cover cuts needing to be sewn up
1 PUL cut waiting for embroidery
4 diapers waiting for snaps
1 shirt for nephew waiting on hems
1 hoodie for nephew half-way done
2 longies needing elastic
1 wool soaker that will need elastic
1 wool soaker cut
1 pair of maternity pants cut
2 rtw shirts that are ready for inserts (had to let them out)
Ironing board cover needing elastic

Plus I've committed to making my niece 2 onesies, an oval crib sheet and some round pillows to finish her bedroom set. Urgh....

So what do I do? I've signed up for a SWAP!!!!! 12 pieces due June 12th!!!!! So I guess I'll be busy finishing up all these UFOs this week as I can't do anything with my sewing area all cluttered up. Wish me luck.

Newborn Diapers

2009-04-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

So the other thing I've been working on is sewing my own diapers for the new little one. I'm still not exactly sure if I'll follow through but learning how to sew these things has been fun. I started a Flickr photo set for those if you all want to have a look.

MSL's Newborn Diapers

Its just amazing the different combinations, fabrics, patterns and so on that you can use for these things. I guess that's one way to make diaper changes interesting.

Some Ottobre Maternity for me

2009-04-02T21:43:00.001-07:00

Yep, looks like our family is actually expanding- well I am anyway!

So these are my first efforts, both from Ottobre for Women 2/2007.
The white top is definitely for the third trimester- I just don't fill it out yet. Of course if I had read the description I would have seen that the model was 36 weeks. But then, to me she looked cute with this little bitty belly. Somehow I don't think I'll be looking like that at 36 weeks.

I had a little trouble with the cross-over but I'm thinking that it will resolve itself when the belly grows.

I used some plush FOE for the neck and sleeve bindings. I really was so happy with how it turned out, I have never done this good a job!

And unfortunately this is the best pic of the pants I got. They are a dark blue linen so I don't think they photograph well anyway. I did them totally plain, no pockets, no frills. I had to make some minor modifications but they fit well. I also made another pair in a khaki stretch twill that I'll post when I get pictures taken.

I have 2 more shirts from the 3/2008 issue cut out so I'll post those when they're done.

Some Ottobre for kids

2009-04-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

I apologize in advance- the pics are terrible. We moved and I haven't quite figured out where and when and how to take pictures in the new place.

I just got a new niece a month- almost 2 ago- so I did sew up a cute little outfit for her using Ottobre patterns. The top is modified to resemble the New Conceptions pattern everyone always raves about but I can't bring myself to actually buy. This version is great. I used a Gymboree blanket for the fabric.

I also made the bumper, crib sheets, and duvet cover for this little one's room but the pics are not available yet. I'll post those when I get them.

I also whipped up some shirts for ds for preschool this past month. The dinosaur shirt was made from a Gymboree blanket for dinosaur week at school. And the bike shirt was for the St. Judes Trike-athon they just had. I somehow cut a piece of the bike shirt wrong so I did a terrible patch job but it worked, ds loved both shirts.

Coming back, really!

2009-03-18T19:46:00.001-07:00

Its been an interesting few months since my last post. While I did sew quite a bit, I didn't document much. Well that is not entirely true as I did do some reviews for PR. So once again I'm recommitting to this blog! Truthfully I write posts in my head as I'm sewing but they never quite make it here. Oh well.

In my last post I mentioned working on the jacket from Otto. I actually ended up making 2 of those jackets. They turned out really cute. You can see the review on PR: Otto Jacket

Some of the other stuff I've made in the last few months:
A really cute hoodie for my niece for Christmas, she loves it and wears it almost everyday!
2 jackets from Kwik Sew 3367, other than my zippers curling a bit, I was really happy with those.
Another jacket from Ottobre, I made this one in a beautiful blue wool jersey, I'm sort of sad that its too warm to wear now.
Oh, this outfit was great- Simplicity 4074. I'm planning on making the dress next, well when I find the pattern again.

Fortunately for me, life is only getting more interesting. I am in transition for now. Most of my stuff was packed up and is waiting to be shipped overseas. I do have my sewing machines though, so there will be sewing!

The good and bad of losing weight

2008-10-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

What to do, what to do. On the bright side I'm losing the weight, that is never a bad thing. I have a closet filled with clothes that I bought at my goal weight. I can't wait to get into them!

The hard part, though, is what to do now. Those cute flip-flop pants I made this past summer no longer fit. With all the topstitching there is no way I'm going to fix them. Luckily the denim skirt I made at the same time can be easily taken in. The two tees I made are also too big. I'm planning to convert the maroon one into a tank and I think the green one will become a baby romper for my coming niece/nephew. Those really aren't the issue since I figured that would happen when I made all that stuff.

The thing is that I'm now wanting to sew and sew and sew but I'm having a hard time deciding what to sew. There is a pant pattern in Burda I really want to try but do I make it now and risk not wearing them before I lose the weight? I can't make them smaller, pants are horrendous to fit as it is. Then there is the round neck sheath I want to make from the newest Ottobre Woman. Uhm... maybe I should look at a sheath that would be relatively easy to take in, only I think I already have one in my goal size.

So far I'm stuck on making pjs- I made myself 2 yesterday. But really how many pjs does one person need? Well I decided I could make myself a lightweight jacket, that could be slightly big and still be fine. I pulled out and traced jacket 13 from the newest Ottobre Women's Issue- boy does it have a lot of pieces. I even pulled out a great fabric- well, I'm sure this choice would put me on the worst dressed list, but I would be there with a smile on my face.

But alas I did not cut. Unfortunately I do not have a good match for the lining. Not sure what I'm going to do. Now I'm back to my sewing cross-roads, what to sew while I lose weight.

Serge as You Go Quilt

2008-09-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have been so inspired by the quilts that have been flooding the Runway on Sewing Mamas lately. Seriously beautiful work. That said, I have no patience for that sort of thing. Luckily there is the Serge as You Go Baby Quilt! I made this last year, or maybe it was the year before, for my grandmother and just loved it. Super easy and fast.

Well when my brother and sil got married in 2006, I bought this collection Italy, France, wine -inspired fabric to make them a quilt as a gift. Of course, it didn't get done. Amazing how time passes. Anyway I finally made them theirs and it looks great, even my husband likes it! It will be their Christmas present this year.

McCalls 4664 and an Otto Hoodie

2008-09-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am really unmotivated to work out in general, so of course every time I decide to get back on track I need to inspirational clothes. Since we're short on cash right now, I decided to sew up some stuff. Luckily I had this lush grey cotton velour in my stash. Its so fun to touch. I also used some of the pima cotton for the tank.

Both the pants and the tank are from McCalls 4664. Surprisingly I really like the tank. I lengthed it but otherwise the pattern was fine. The pants, however, are a continuing work in progress. You'd think that sweatpants would be a breeze but I really want them to fit right. So this is the third attempt at this pattern and I think I almost have it. I need to cut down the front crotch seam about an inch more next time.
But really the best part of the outfit is the hoodie! I'm so excited. I seriously had a total crazy hair when I did this. The pattern is from the Children's Ottobre 4/2007, #34, a girl's hoodie. I up-sized the pattern, added lenght and width. I got the inspiration from That Darn Kat, she posted a pic on Sewing Mamas. Hers turned out so nice I decided I had to try it.

Well that was one thing, but then I decided I need to embroider the thing. Not a simple little embroidery but a beautiful floral I got from Embroidery Library that had 13000+ stitches! Not only that I used my endless hoop and ran it down the front of the hoodie- 5 separate hopings. I was seriously praying this thing would fit after all that!

Turns out the hoodie was slightly wide but that was easy to fix. I wish I had done a better job on the front cross binding, so I may go back and fix that but otherwise I love it! Of course, the minute I finished it the weather warmed up so I haven't been able to really wear it.

So much sewing!

2008-09-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

I have been sewing up a storm lately. Its fabulous. I feel so productive. Downside is my house is a mess, my husband is feeling abandoned and my 3-year-old surprised the speech therapist by correctly answering that you use a thread and needle to sew. She told me that she had never had a child that young answer that question correctly.

Of course, getting the pictures up is another story. They are all sitting on my computer waiting for editing. I like to put the pattern number and size on the pic to make it easier to remember what I've made and what I've liked.

So far in this sewing frenzy I've made jeans for my little one out of my husband's old jeans. Several outfits for my nephew for either Christmas or his Christening, depending on how fast he grows between now and then. Jammas for a friend's child, late birthday gift. A new version of my grocery bag that converts to a backpack for walking to and from the store or farmer's market. I'm going to have my sil test it out. I'm also finishing up 2 t-shirts for same sil from the knit fabric she chose in Peru. I made a long-sleeve tee for my brother too. My little one got a Superman costume for Halloween, still need to make the shoe covers for it though. And I made myself 2 tunics from the newest Ottobre Women's issue. Also new Rose Tee with 3/4 sleeves, a velour sweatsuit, tank top and a bunch of underwear. I tested my adapted pattern of the cross-over top from Ottobre, which I made into a nightgown. I had just enough of the fabric left over to make a little baby gown which of course meant that that is now a set. Too bad I don't know anyone about my size having a baby girl. Goodness I have been busy!

If you can believe it, I also started my Christmas sewing! I finished an enlarged version of the Serger Baby Quilt for my brother and sil. I'm planning another for my other sil. I figure I can start on the things that I don't need measurements for. I started my list and as usual its a mile long! Well that will be another time. Off to finish my current projects.

Oh and thats the best part, I'm finishing projects!!!!!

Rose Tee from Ottobre

2008-08-31T16:05:00.001-07:00

I actually made these in June but didn't get the finishing details done until after our move in August. Of course, thats when I realized they were too big. Mind you, I'm still wearing them. In fact I'm wearing the Rose Tee now (green one).

Overall I like the pattern, fairly easy to put together. The V-neck on the Rose Tee gave me fits and still doesn't look great. I used a satin and it was so slippery I just did not get it lined up right. For the next one I'm going to try a less slippery fabric. I do like the woven and the knit together. I did cut the sleeve bands on the bias since I have larger arms and thought a bit of stretch would be nice. Surprisingly those are great. I love the way the sleeves turned out, which explains why I'm ignoring the neck and wearing the shirt anyway.

The maroon Tee was made with the sleeves of the Rose Tee since I liked the puffy sleeve. Its the scoop neck from the same issue. Really easy to put together. I made a 46, which included the gathering on the side which was easy enough but too high for me (ie I guess my cans aren't as perky as they should be). Turns out, though, that the 44 does not include the gathering so I won't be dealing with that on my next version. I did a thin binding for the neck instead of doing their way and then coverstitched, which I think turned out great. I'm getting so much better at that!

I'll definitely be making a few more when I get back, with my new knits.

Big Intentions

2008-08-31T15:50:00.000-07:00

So I had to leave the country for a family emergency so I went ahead an uploaded a bunch of pics of some sewing I had been doing so that in my "spare" time I could update my blog while I was here. Yes, you can laugh now. Oh well. I'm going to try and do some today, we'll see how it goes.

On the upside, I was able to alleviate some of my sewing withdrawls with a bit of shopping. I found some old issues of Burda, one in English and a few in Spanish, and a couple, so far, of Patrones! I'm surprisingly excited about the Patrones issues. I didn't expect to be so excited since I tend to wear more simple stuff. I'm itching to get home and see what I have in my stash to try out the patterns. I also raided my mother's stash for 3 fabrics that would be prefect for a dress from one of the Burdas and a blouse from one of the Patrones. Funny thing is those 2 fabrics were originally mine! Her stash is made up of my casts-off, but then since she rarely sews, they tend to just hang out there. I did get a third fabric which is a purple/cream/lime green Boucle that is really great for a short jacket from one of the Patrones. I'm still combing the newstands and mercados for more issues, wish me luck.

I also bought a ton of plain Pima cotton knits in various colors, its just beautiful. Very, very soft. I'm hoping they wash and wear well since the closest in quality I've found stateside is about $12 a yard, this was far less. Thats the story for now. I'll post pics later.

Women's Ottobre pants patterns

2008-07-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

I've actually been really liking the fit on these patterns for me. Other than my usual swayback, I didn't need any other alterations. Pretty cool. I'm going to try a pair of jeans next.

These pants were from Ottobre Kids issue 1/2005, the linen capris. I thought they were a bit more like high-waters rather than capris so I just added 2 inches to the length and made them pants. They are a linen embroidered with flip-flops, I think its cute but my husband thinks they look like pjs!
Next are the linen capris from Ottobre Womens issue 2/2007. The striped pair are the pattern as is, then I made 2 shorts using the same pattern. I don't have a pic of the black pair- black linen with embroidered circles. The bonus about the shorts is that they were from the remnants bin at JAs when the linen was already on sale so I think the brown shorts were less than a dollar! I already had the zipper and button. Gotta love it.

I made the other capris from this same issue. I have to take some pics and upload them later.

But this fabric is by far my favorite remnant bin find! Embroidered denim, slightly less than a yard for $3! I will admit that this skirt turned out a bit too wide at the bottom because of the denim. I'm planning to take it in a bit but otherwise it fit great.
I also have the Rose Top and the Puffed Sleeved Tee from the 2/2007 issue that need hemming so I'll post those later. Overall I'm really enjoying these magazines, I have a ton of post-its hanging out waiting to made!

Time sure flies...

2008-07-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

when you're sewing up a storm and moving cross-country! Craziness has been abounding around here. I finally unpacked my sewing machines so I thought it would be a good time to update here.

My niece's prom dress looked great on her. I wasn't as thrilled about it but she was so thats what counts. Unfortunately I have no pic, sorry.

On other sewing fronts I spent the few weeks leading up to our move sewing up as many summer things as I could as I have "outgrown" my old stuff. Since we were going to California I, naturally, assumed I might need them. Not so much! Oh well.

I have to come up with a plan now. As I was unpacking my fabric I got a million and one ideas. I was finding fabrics I hadn't really looked at in a year. Uhm... I'm thinking I need to do a mini-wardrobe or something like that to get focused. I'm going to browse PR and see whats up over there.

I'm an Auntie to another boy!

2008-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

My sil went into labor early this past weekend but all went well, mom and new baby boy are doing good. So, of course, that meant procrastination was done! I worked all Sunday on the cushion covers and the box is sitting outside my door waiting for UPS. Yipee! I think they turned out pretty good but plain. I have some extra fabric so I'm thinking of making a pillow or a head rest with the baby's name or monogram. We'll see.

Off to work on the prom dress!

Procrastination Zone

2008-04-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

I'm seriously procrastinating from doing the things I have to do- niece's prom dress and the covers for sil's nursing chair. Both projects need to be done by May, the earlier the better even though Prom is the 31st and due date is the 29th. Both "clients" are a bit anxious. Personally I'm the type that is still sewing 5 minutes before my date comes to the door. Oh well.

In the meantime, of course, I've been doing other stuff. Made another McCalls 5271, only this time the fabric was too stretchy so I'm going to have to fix it- will take off the bottom band, shorten and put in a center seam to pull in the shoulders a bit. I also have one cut out for my mom plus I modified the pattern for a higher neck to wear without an underlayer. That one is cut too. I'll post pics when they are all done. What else... I cut 2 pairs of pj pants for my nephew who turns 15 next week. Wow time has really flown by, I still remember him as an adorable 4 year old.

Well since Photobucket is not cooperating (and pics are on the other computer) I'll post pics later.

Presents for the Girls

2008-04-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

My ds was invited to a birthday party last week so I had to whip up this outfit. I so need a girl to sew for! My nieces don't count since this will really be the last year I can make such girlie outfits for those girls. Bummer.
And the reverse-side:
I also made a taggie blanket and ball for a baby girl born to a Norwegian couple here. The embroidery says "Born in the USA."

Baby Bounty!

2008-04-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

My sil had her baby shower a few weeks back so I sent a few items. I held back since they don't know if the baby will be a boy or a girl. Much more fun to sew specific- plus I can do more embroidery that way. Whatever. I still had fun. They are doing a seaside theme for the nursery but unfortunately I picked out the fabric before I got the final color line up. Its more of the brown and blue seaside in the nursery. I like my fabric better!

First up is the baby bunting, weird pattern (Simplicity 7418) . It was easy to put together but odd to put on baby. It sort of opens up completely on the top, you slide the baby's legs in then fold over the top and snap the arms together and the shirt together. Then fold up the bottom and snap the huggie arms over that . Its still cute.

Here are the burps and bibs. The burps are the New Conceptions freebie pattern plus some long narrow ones like the Carter's ones I saw at the store. The bibs are a traced pattern from a bib I liked for ds.

I also made a hooded towel, some washcloths and a double layer flannel receiving blanket. Everything was simply serged together, well the blanket was also quilted together.

Lastly the taggie blanket and ball.

Robot Fleece

2008-04-05T07:25:00.000-07:00

I thought this fleece material was so cute plus I noticed that ds was growing out of his current fleece so why not. I used the holey pocket tutorial on SewZannes for the pocket.

DS loves it! I did have to adjust the sizing on pattern (Butterick 5164). I cut a sz 2 width with a sz 4 length. I love that pattern- it sews up fast, just runs very large.

Froggie PJs for Me

2008-04-05T07:19:00.000-07:00

So I've been playing with the Ottobre Design magazine- mostly boxers and baby stuff. The 1/05 issue had a women's top so I thought I'd try it out. It sewed up fast and other than my stretching the binding looks pretty good. The only trouble is that it is too tight on the bust- weird since I'm a B-cup. Its still cute and wearable.

Chances are I won't make this again- not so much for the tight issue but its way too modest for me.

Thank you Gifts- Grocery Bags

2008-04-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to send my brother and sil a thank you gift but, you know, they are the kind of people who can buy anything but don't. They are so careful about each purchase they make, sometimes I envy that. Anyway, I decided to finally make them the grocery bags I had planned for Christmas. I used the same tutorial from Queenofdiy on Craftster that I had used for my bags. I did make a couple of changes based on my bags. First I made the pocket full-size since it fits a bottle of wine perfectly. Second I made the handles a tad longer and narrower, it might be because I have small hands but I found the bulk a bit much for me. Then I added an elastic on the pocket to use when folding the bag up.

On my sil's bags I used a snap and elastic to make it super easy. (mine just fold over) Also I made one of the bags for my sil with a convertible strap so that she could throw the bag over her shoulder if need be. (They mostly walk to the market.) I also used the leftover fabric to make a little bag which she told me would be perfect for those "delicate" items like soft cheeses and squishable fruit.

The Best part is that my Sil loved the bags!

That Darn'Kat Wallet

2008-04-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

This wallet turned out really cute and it was much easier than I thought it would be. Of course, lazy me didn't double check the cc slots so the slots on the left were too big. I did makeshift them to work but definitely teaches me!

Here's the tutorial if you're interested.

More Vacation stuff

2008-04-05T06:47:00.000-07:00

I know its been a while- I blame Photobucket entirely! Actually I should lay equal blame on Cox and photobucket, for whatever reason I have been unable to log on to photobucket for a few weeks. Anyway, excuses, excuses.... On the plus side I've been doing a lot of sewing so I guess its good I haven't been able to log on.

Here's the rest of my vacation stuff. These are some embroidered shirts I made for ds and for my nieces.

(The bottom two are ds'.)

I also made a t-shirt dress for my other niece:

And embroidered a onesie for my coming niece or nephew:

Oh and the soon-to-be also got my first Ottobre Design baby outfit:

So thats the vacation wrap up, finally!

Vacation clothes

2008-03-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about me but I always seem to need new clothes to go on vacation. Truthfully I dress better on vacation- weird. I'm thinking that I will be going through my closet this Spring with the idea that if I would not take it on vacation, I should not have it. Uhm... I wonder if that would help my wardrobe?

Anyway, so before I left for Sunny California, I decided to make a shirt for myself and embroider some tops for my little one. The funny thing is that while I was planning for 50s/60s, it turned out to be in the 60s/70s while we were there. I ended up at Target buying short sleeve shirts! Oh well.

This fabric is sort of velvety, the top turned out really nice but I think next time I would make it a tad longer, I didn't have enough fabric.

I also made the cardi-wrap from Threads/Sew Stylish, it turned out okay. I cut the armholes too big and too wide but it was just a muslin anyway.
The pic isn't great but I still hadn't packed so I just snapped these quickly.

Scrapbooking Tote

2008-02-24T18:34:00.000-08:00

So I gave my sil and her girls a bunch of handbags and totes that I was bored with. Yes, I'm terrible about these things- I love to make them but then I'm over them. Anyway my sil liked one of the bags I made last spring for my trip to Australia. It was a modified version of McCalls P377 (renumbered 4851), I had made it smaller and changed the straps/pockets. She actually wanted the bag bigger in every direction so she could use it for lugging around her scrapbooking stuff. Cool, fun!

So, of course, it started with a trip to JoAnns for more fabric. Okay, it didn't have to but I have no willpower- they were having a 50% off all clearance fabric. The only good thing I can say about that trip is that I have used 4 of the fabrics I bought. If you really want to know thats 1/5th of the total fabric purchase.

One of the fabrics was the one I used on this bag. Its lined with a Bratz fabric that she actually gave me a few weeks ago, left over from her younger dd's room. I embroidered her initials and a surprise snowlady on the inside (she loves snowmen). I did change up the handles, wanted to try that technique- saw it on Sewing with Nancy while I was cutting out this bag.
Enjoy.

Yes, I have been doing something....

2008-02-22T17:41:00.001-08:00

Not much sewing in the first few weeks of February. I wasn't motivated and time was a bit limited, munchkin was going through a growth spurt that made him particularly cranky. And I thought that only happened to babies! Plus dh was finishing up his semester, so it was all in all an unproductive time.

But not all was lost. I was able to finally- again- set up my sewing room, organize and fix my fabrics. Here are some befores of the fabric-

Yeah, pretty bad. When we moved here I thought it would be great to roll the fabric like they do the remnants at JoAnns. I even measured and labeled. In the end I found it harder to really see my fabric.

So, of course, I came across the infamous ruler folding instructions and had to try it. I don't think she created the technique but she definitely brought it to my attention.

Check it out!

Doesn't it look pretty? I just love it.

And, just in case you're curious, here's the rest of the room, almost. I forgot to upload the pics of my machine corner, oh well.

McCalls 4471- swimsuit

2008-02-08T17:35:00.000-08:00

So this swimsuit was a UFO, I'm not sure if it was on my list from before but it should have been. Anyway, I actually really enjoyed making this and cannot wait to make another despite its not an ideal fit. Funny.

The pattern is for a two-piece but the top was too short so I just sewed it to the bottom to make it a one-piece. I love the halter and the fit of the top. It has elastic on both sides of the bra top so it really stays put. I actually tested it out today. I played with the munchkin in the pool and even swam some laps. The only serious fit issue I had was that the bottom is a bit too narrow at the bottom of the bottom (rides up).

I'm definitely going to make this again. I was thinking of doing something like those that they had in the Land's End catalog that are "adjustable." Yup, I'm going to be making a swimsuit real soon!

UFO rap up

2008-02-08T17:27:00.000-08:00

I know its already almost 2 weeks into February! Well, the UFO contest went well, I finished 12 items, yipee!!

Unfortunately, I still have 12 more sitting around. What can you do? I'll save them for the next contest. I did end up throwing away the baby carrier, I don't need it and don't know anyone right now who would use it. Just needed to get it out of here.

This shirred shirt was my last project- I used my cording foot on my coverstitch machine to put the elastic cord then stretched the cord and sewed the seam. I just had the stretching and seam to do. I had already done the rolled hem on top and bottom as well as having stitched the rows- totally mind-numbing. Won't be making one of these again anytime soon.

Shirt for PG Sil

2008-01-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

Yes more procrastination from UFOs over the weekend. I embroidered this shirt for my sil who just had a birthday. I just love the design and was itching to use it. Both the design and the font are from the wonderful digitizers on SewForum.

the Sock Bag

2008-01-28T10:22:00.000-08:00

I'm not entirely sure why I had to make this bag- a friend on ivillage posted about it and, of course, I couldn't help myself. It is so cute and small. I'm not sure what I'll use it for since I don't knit, which is its intended purpose. Oh well.

The tutorial is from CrazyLanea and she also sells them, check out her site for the details. Its a great little project.

I'm thinking this one will end up as a birthday gift for the niece that got the matching spiral skirt.

6 UFOs down, 7, 8, 9 to go

2008-01-27T14:27:00.000-08:00

Well I'm half way done with the UFOs I found earlier this month. Unfortunately I've definitely found a few more since then. What can you do? I'm actually excited about the cut out swimsuit I found a couple of days ago. I bought the pattern and cut it out last year when I was having fits about RTW swimsuits. The fabric is this denim print, very cute and really intended as a working muslin. Anyway despite my trying to out-think the instructions the suit is turning out nicely. Hopefully I'll finish it up tomorrow.

So I have 4 more days to finish up my UFOs for the contest. Wish me luck.

Overalls

2008-01-27T14:21:00.000-08:00

Love it! More UFOs off the radar. I just love this bright orange car fabric for going to crowded places with the munchkin. Easier to spot in the crowd.

Now the second set of overalls were originally supposed to be Christmas pjs but since I cut them last year there was no way they would fit. Turns out that just the sleeves were too short so I turned it into overalls. I may go back and narrow the shoulder but then again, my dh has said- in no uncertain terms- that his child would not be allowed in public in those "clown pants." Oh well.

Christmas Apron

2008-01-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

I am on an UFO roll! Woo Hoo! I finally, almost a decade later, put together the Christmas Apron. Looks good. I'm thinking I might embroider something for the back so I can use it now. We'll see, I'm just happen that its out of my to-d0 pile.

My IJ Hobo Bag- UFO

2008-01-24T11:42:00.001-08:00

So I finished the bag- reworked the straps. Still not that in love with it but it works better than it did.
I'm so in the mood for a new bag but don't really want to put in the work. Uhm... I did help my niece make a bag last weekend, she was so thrilled with it. Gotta love that feeling. She did really well for her first time using a sewing machine. I didn't take a pic but maybe I'll do that tomorrow when I see her. Anyway I have to make arrangements to have her come out once a month- trading baby care for sewing lessons. Unfortunately she's too young to do real babysitting but she could entertain the little one elsewhere in the house while I work, that would be great. Well off to do the laundry, yeah fun, fun!

Butterick 4914

2008-01-15T06:07:00.000-08:00

Woo hoo, 2 UFOs done! I serged up the Maggie London Dress. I posted a review on Pattern Review for the stitching details.

Anyway, I cut this dress out 15 pounds ago, oh boy! It still fits since its knit but its a strong dancewear knit so it is tight. I did rush the sewing but I think it came out okay. Looks better on me than on the mannequin. The neckline isn't as funny looking.

New Look 6736, My Coat!

2008-01-15T06:01:00.000-08:00

Its done! Now the finishing touches could have been better done but, its done!

I really love the shape, can't wait to wear it. So far I only put 1 button on, I kind of like it that way but I may change my mind. I'll wear it a few times before I decide. I really is more of a "car" coat type of coat, at least around here.

UFO Stuff

2008-01-15T05:51:00.000-08:00

So I searched out some UFOs, these are the ones I could easily find, I fear the ones that are buried!

1. fleece one-piece romper for ds, cut last year so there is no way it will fit
2. overalls for ds cut in the fall, may end up as shorts
3. hawaiian loose cover-up made last summer, needs the arm holes to be dropped and the neck band added
4. Smoon head bands, just need the elastic to be attached to one side
5. elastic shirred top, elastic needs to be finished and seam sewn
6. Maggie London knit dress cut last summer
7. one of those cut up fleece scarves from a kit- way too delicate to actually wear, want to add ribbon to the stems of the flowers so they don't pull off
8. Christmas apron from 5-6 years ago (actually longer I just realized, they were from before I met dh), cut and ready to be sewn
9. messenger style diaper bag half sewn for Italy trip in 2006, needs lining, straps, pockets, closure
10. Hobo bag sewn as muslin for niece's christmas bags, straps need to be redone completely
11. Winter coat, lining needs to be finished, hems and buttons completed
12. Ergo style baby carrier, half sewn

So those are the projects for Jan- eeck, Jan is half over!

Oh and on my way out of my sewing room I saw the linen cropped jacket that just needs to be slip-stitched. And the list grows!

Hawaiians for the boys and some pjs

2008-01-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

These are the last of my Christmas sewing. I made dh's shirt last year but since he was deployed I never actually saw him in it. This year I used the left over fabric to make the munchkin a matching shirt- they sure looked cute!

And these are the pjs I ended up making for my nephews and one niece (between age).

On to bigger and brighter projects!

more embroidered Christmas stuff

2008-01-06T16:09:00.000-08:00

I actually did a lot of embroidery this Christmas, its fun. These were the gift card holders- only 2 this year.

I made these embroidered ornaments with names for my sil's stockings. They looked really nice all together. I used the leftover silk duponi from my little one's baptism outfit.

These are the cell phone holders for my nieces. The design is from Embroidery Garden, stitched out really nicely.

Spiral Skirts

2008-01-06T16:04:00.000-08:00

These are the skirts I made for my little nieces, I think they are so adorable. I'm not sure how my one niece will take it since she's not terribly girlie, hopefully she'll at least like the shirt.

Here's the last one:Update- my sil called and said my two nieces (butterfly and last one) loved their skirts, Yeah!

Indygo Junction Hobo Bag

2008-01-06T15:54:00.000-08:00

While the version I made for myself didn't turn out so great- more due to my modifications than the pattern itself- the bags for my nieces are really cute. Overall the pattern is easy, directions are clear. The only things I didn't like is the lack of closure (I added a button closure) and the straps were too short (I added 2 inches). I also made matching cell phone cases and added a d-ring to attach it to. My one niece also got a pencil case but I needed to make changes to the design so my other niece didn't get one. I'll make her one once I change the design a bit.

More pics:

January Plan

2008-01-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

I so need to get back to sewing for me. Actually I just need to get back to sewing in general. Today was the first day I sewed since the 23rd, eeeck!

So I decided today that I'm going to make January UFO and sloper month. Pattern Review has a UFO contest going on so it seemed fitting to do it. Then my darling hubby bought me PMB Womens for Christmas, yeah! So I'm going to work on the slopers this month. This way in February I'll begin sewing from custom fitted patterns designed by me! How exciting.

Okay before that UFOs must go. Without really searching this is my list:

I have this Maggie London Dress cut in a dark gray dance wear type of fabric. I was really excited about it for the fall when dh told me we'd have a ton of events to go to. Uhm... he went to a ton of dressy events, I got stuck at home with no babysitter.

I have to rework the straps on the bag I made using the Indygo Junction pattern, they were too short and I was supposed to use the same fabric for both sides but for some reason I flaked on that part and ended up using a slippery lining fabric so the strap falls off my shoulder. Duh.

I also have a swim suit cut. I'm not sure about that one since I never ordered the right elastic, well I still can so that will have to make the list.

Of course my coat goes on the list- hems, buttons and buttonholes.

An apron from 5/6 years ago. I made my family matching aprons one year out of one of those panel fabrics. I thought it was pretty funny, anyway I never actually did mine. Now is the time!

I know there are more but I'll start with these. Fun, fun!

Embroidered ornaments

2008-01-05T17:13:00.001-08:00

Here are the embroidered ornaments I ended up with for the exchange on Fiber Arts. I think they turned out nice, a bit bigger than I had wanted but much smaller than my original design. They are about the size of a baseball but flat. The Santa is a freebie on CinDes Embroidery Designs, she has some really adorable stuff on her site, check it out.

Now technically I didn't make this particular ornament this year but I made one like this for an ornament exchange. It was a big hit. I actually have several of the embroidered panels made up but who knows when the ornaments will actually come together.

So those are all the pics I have for now, I haven't uploaded the gift pics yet. Which, as it turns out is a good thing, since the gifts are still at my house! Oh well.

Only 10 days left!

2007-12-14T21:50:00.000-08:00

Uhm... I'm beginning to think that my presents will be late yet again. Always seems to happen the year I decide to make gifts. I've got 2 skirts for the younger girls and both nephews' pjs waiting for elastic and hemming. I am still looking for the matching shirts for the skirts- I'll buy them tomorrow, hopefully. I have 1 purse cut and I keep flip-flopping on the fabric for the second. Now I'm thinking of doing pjs for the middle niece after all. Urgh... Hopefully tomorrow will be a productive day.

More?

2007-11-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

So I pulled out the fabric for the bags for my older nieces. I think I'll be able to make them out of my stash. I'm planning a trip to the store tomorrow so I needed to be sure. Unfortunately I'll have to buy fabric for the little ones. My stash is so huge but not coordinated. Live and learn. I'm going to double check on the fabric for the nephews that way I can make this my last trip.

Of course I was checking out the projects at SewForum and someone posted their version of this pattern: moon shaped santa

I love it. Urgh... add another project, I just have to have it.

Well, not off to the best start

2007-11-28T20:23:00.000-08:00

I didn't actually get any sewing done yesterday. Oh well. I did try to finish cutting out the skirts for the nieces only to realize I don't have enough coordinating fabric for all three skirts. So off to the fabric store I'll need to go. Hopefully I'll get to go on Friday, its just easier to go without the little one but with dh leaving on Saturday I'm not sure what would be the best- sew in peace or shop in peace. Uhm?

Oh- I just realized Project Runway is on tonight. Fun, fun.

Christmas Sewing!

2007-11-27T09:58:00.000-08:00

Today is the day, I WILL start my Christmas sewing. I have an ever growing list of projects lined up for Christmas. I just realized today that I'll be gone for a few days next week, so that means I can't sew on those days, urgh.

Well, my plan is to cut, cut, cut then sew, sew, sew. Hopefully that will make things go faster. We'll see. Here's my list and plan:

1. the skirts for the little nieces- they're all getting the spiral skirt from youcanmakethis.com with matching embroidered tops. I'll do the tops while I'm working on the nephew's gifts.

2. The nephew's gifts- pajamas. I know so boring but they're boys.

3. Bags for the older nieces. The two older ones are getting the hobo bag from Indygo Junction and the younger one will get a messenger style bag.

4. Cloth grocery bags for brothers and sils without kids.

5. Ornament for Fiber Arts Exchange.

So those are the definite projects- I want them all finished by the 15th. Now if I have time before then I'm also thinking of adding some projects for my brothers and sils but we'll see. After the 15th, I'll start working on the projects closer to home:

1. Embroidered ornaments for fil & girlfriend and for sil.
2. Christmas outfit for crumb-catcher.
3. Pajamas for crumb-catcher and dh (if the ones I made 2 years ago don't fit) plus shirts to match (just embroidered tees).

I think thats all, again we'll see. The list doesn't look so daunting on the screen. Oh- I have to finish my coat this week so I can take it on my trip. I guess I'd better get to it.

No excuses

2007-11-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

Now I remember why I never kept a diary, I forget. Don't get me wrong, I'm composing posts all day long- I just don't get them on the computer. Oh well.

Things have been busy around here. We hosted Thanksgiving here and all went well. My fil said the food was good but "different"- uh? Oh well, dh did the cooking so what do I care. I, of course, crafted for the event. I rushed out to Walmart the day before looking for some simple paper tablecloths. No luck, oh they had Christmas ones but no Thanksgiving. In fact I had to dig through Christmas stuff just to find some napkins for Thanksgiving- they were hidden with all the Christmas ones. Urgh... So I ended up buying 3 yards each of some $1 a yard fabric they had at Walmart. I cut them in half, serged and did a rolled edge on the cut edges. I think the turned out pretty good.

I also ended up using the runner that I was making for my brother and sil for Christmas- the embroidery on one end was crooked, and if anyone would notice- it would be my sil. The embroidery turned out so pretty, I'll use the runner.

What else? Oh my non-existent crumb-catcher got a turkey shirt. It was adorable.

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend.

What a great 2 days!

2007-11-16T05:34:00.000-08:00

So I decided to start this blog because I've been doing more thinking/talking about sewing than actual sewing. Wouldn't you know it, my DH came home on Wednesday and said "I'll take care of the non-existent crumb catcher so you can craft."- uh, wait don't bother saying it twice I'm outta here!

I got myself all cozy in my sewing room and made some serious headway on my coat and even got the Sandra Betzina top 90% done. Yipee.

This is the top- I finished the hems last night with the coverstitch feature on my serger but the pic doesn't show that. It was an easy top to put together. (Vogue 2980)

More importantly I worked on my coat- New Look 6736. I cut it out about a month ago and then decided to line it (pattern is unlined). I'm not sure what possessed me to try it but hey, I was feeling adventurous. I used the Threads article on bagging as a jumping off point.

Of course, being the one to want to complicate matters I also decided to quilt the lining with flannel- uh? Anyway, slowly the coat seems to be coming together. I have the lining and the outer coat done and attached. I'm going to put a pocket in the lining before continuing. Hopefully all goes well. Wish me luck.

the lining-

the outer coat-

joined up-

I'll do a separate post for the embroidery stuff I also got to work on.

Here I go!

2007-11-13T14:32:00.001-08:00

How exciting. I'm finally going to get this set up. Give me a little time to figure it all out. My intention is to write mostly about my sewing and embroidery adventures. We'll see if I don't throw in a bunch of other stuff too. Stay tuned.