Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Seriously?

It's been since last September since I wrote here?  Seriously?  Wow.

A lot has happened since last September.  I moved from my house in October to a much smaller house -- but was able to keep my "studio."  Then I moved again a couple of weeks ago -- January 25 -- to another house about 4 states away.  We're settled for the time being, but no sewing room as yet!  I thought I'd put together the kitchen first . . .

But I am chomping at the bit again to get back in and get some sewing done.  So we'll see how fast I can make that happen!  I'm still in school, finishing up my Associate of Interior Design degree, and don't know what I'll do after that.

I do know this:  my header line has never been more true than it is these days.  I honestly sew to keep my sanity, one project at a time.  It is such good therapy.

I have done a few YouTube Videos, which I will post here.  I'm not gone!  I'm just in transition -- story of my life! 

xoxoxox

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Vogue 1245

This is an Alice + Olivia pattern, a variation on the traditional peasant top.  I've done a review on it at Pattern Review, so you can read my thoughts on it there.  



The blue is much more vibrant than what you see here.  I did this in a soft rayon (60% off at Hancock's) but next time I think I'll use a crepe-de-chine.  I just wanted it lighter and "floatier."  It does drape beautifully, and feels wonderful!

I am disappointed that the fit is off for me.  I kind of roughly fit it with the tissue to check for the waistline measurement, and it seemed fine.  But in the finished product, it just sits way too high on my waist.  I wanted it down more toward my hips -- so live and learn!  It will fit Rose nicely, and the weight of it will be perfect for winter.  I hope she'll love it!

It's been so nice to get back in the sewing room again!  Next up is Vogue 1255, and I'll be interested to see just how much work all the ruffles are.  This patter (1245) taught me that I definitely need to get a package of those metal bias tape makers.  That would have made it SO much easier!

xoxox




Saturday, September 10, 2011

Project Who-Knows-What-Way

If you're anything like me, you're a huge fan of Project Runway.  I have a love/hate relationship with it, I must admit.  But I love to see what the designers do creatively, within those ridiculous time limits, and how they stay on-trend with the fashions they create.

I follow a blog called "Made by Lex."  Talk about beautiful fashion!  She remakes thrifted garments, sews for her little girls, and creates new fashions all to sell in her Etsy shop.  I especially love her scarves, which are hand-dyed.  Beautiful!

Lately Lex has been participating in a contest called "Project Run and Play."  It's a blogging version of Project Runway, except all the fashions are made for little girls.  They're given a pattern, or a theme, and eight designers then create magic!  There are 3 regular judges and one guest judge each week.  And viewers can also vote for their favourites, although the judges have the final decision.

So even if you're not into kids clothing, this blog is worth a look.  I think it is flat-out AMAZING to see what these designers are doing!  Project Runway has nothing on them!

Speaking of which (and I'll try not to rant here) -- Project Runway is supposed to be about great design with some good tv mixed in.  Thursday, September 8, 2011's show was just nothing but drama, drama, drama.  We wanted someone "out" because of their attitude and ability to play well with others, not because of their designs.  This show irritates me regularly for this very reason - they "auf" the nice ones and let the evil geniuses stay.  But the show also usually amazes me, so there you go.

I also had a look at the new Spring 2012 collection from last season's winner, Gretchen Jones.  Let me just say this:  her main cheerleader, Nina Garcia, is probably denying she ever knew Gretchen.  That is all.

So have a look at Project Run and Play and feast your eyes on great design for kids.  It will brighten your day!

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Giveaway!

Since I have a ton of aprons, I thought I'd give away the one I made in the YouTube tutorial!

To enter the giveaway, just go to the YouTube Giveaway Video and leave a comment.  You can enter as many times as you like, live anywhere in the world, and the giveaway will end September 30.

Enjoy! 

Apron Tutorial

I've been meaning to do a "Sew-Along" tutorial for awhile.  Some of my YouTube subscribers had requested it, so here it is!



Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Ideas

Here's a refashion I'd like to try.  I was looking for school clothes on Old Navy.com, and found this sweater:



I bet this wouldn't be that hard to do if you found the sweaters to combine.  I'm heading to my local Goodwill today.  Maybe I'll find something similar.  I think it would also work with varying sizes of stripes, or using long-sleeved t-shirts.  Whatcha think? 


Sunday, August 21, 2011

Angela Kane

My newest obsession on YouTube:  Angela Kane

I've already learned 4-5 things from her -- mainly about basting and reducing bulk in seams.  I find this amazing as I've been sewing for 40+ years.

You'll also love the way she speaks and instructs.  She's very concise.

Enjoy!

xoxoxox