La Bella Colori

Sew Happy Quilt ALong Blocks 3 and 4

2012-01-11T09:10:00.004-06:00

Sew Happy Quilt ALong Blocks 3 and 4, a photo by labellacolori on Flickr.

I really love the way that block 4 turned out!!! I also love the white print fabric in that block, which might be why I am partial to that block over the others.

Jenna has done a fabulous job with her tutorials, these block were so easy and fast!! If you haven't started a quilt along before there is still lots of time to join in at Sew. Happy. Geek. I got home from a long day at work and grabbed a glass of wine and whist my hubby cooked dinner (yes I am a lucky girl) I went straight to the sewing room. By the time dinner was ready and on the table these pretties were sewn and pressed. One great tip that Jenna has and I always do is to heavily starch all fabrics before cutting to help keep the bias edges from warping and the point crisp.

Go and check out all the other great blocks others are making at Sew. Happy. Quilt. Flikr Group.

Not Like I Need More To Do,

2012-01-10T08:00:00.007-06:00

BUT.......

Brenda at justabitfrayed is hosting a Scraps Quilt Along and who couldn't use a quilt along like that?!?!?!!!

I am needing to free up some space in my sewing room and this just might do the trick. It starts on Jan 12th which gives me plenty of time to dig out all my scraps.

I think I will use a Kona cotton maybe in ash or - I just don't know but some solid color other than white. I just finished a quilt top that I have yet to post/blog and the background fabric I used was Kona tarragon and I really like the look of the pale green in place of a white background I was originally going to use.

SHQ-QuiltAlong Blocks 1 and 2

2012-01-09T15:48:00.002-06:00

I finally finished the blocks 1 and 2 for the quilt along at Sew.Happy.Geek

Blocks 1 and 2, a photo by labellacolori on Flickr.

The colors are much brighter in person, I took the photo with my cell phone.

I am still learning how to post blogs from Flickr and from my cell phone.I know I know, 'get with the times'

Quick Hand Me a Paper Bag...

2012-01-04T10:59:00.000-06:00

I came across Tracey at Itching 2 B Stitching post about her craft room make over and began to hyperventilate when I saw this...

and the link to the plans at Ann White

Now that I am breathing normal, I should be finishing up my blocks for the Sew.Quilt. Geek. QAL

New Year New Quilt Along!!!

2011-12-29T11:03:00.002-06:00

Not long and we will be in the year of Two-thousand and Twelve!

I know its an old cliche "time goes by faster the older you get" but its soooo true!!!

Where did 2011 go??

So looking on to the 'Horizon' of 2012 and new projects, I came across Jenna

at Sew. Happy. Geek. and she is hosting a quilt-along for 2012, what fun!!

Does this look like a fresh fun start to the new year?!?!

Well, it does to me!!

I have picked out my fabrics, or at least the main players in this quilt...

Horizon Morning Tides by Free Spirit

(did you catch the pun/play on words earlier? yea, I know I'm a goof ball)

I love purple and yellow together, so cheerful!!

I will be adding in some solid kona cottons, maybe white, purple and yellow.

That is if I can find them locally?

What projects are you planning for the New Year?

What I've been up to

2011-04-27T19:27:00.001-05:00

Here is a quick pic of a toddler apron I am working on.

Sharing the Mug Rug Love...

2011-03-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

Erin at 'Two More Seconds' is hosting 10 days of mug rug madness. Now I have known about mug rugs but never made any, well Erin got me excited about these cute little quilts. Also a friend's birthday was coming up and she loves turtles, sooooo ta da.......

Two little turtles

I used Moda Spirit by Lila Tueller that I had in my stash.

Machine pieced, raw edge appliqued and quilted all in one afternoon.

I drafted the shape of a sea turtle and then re-traced the individual shapes, as in the head, body, two arms and legs - are they called arms and legs or flippers? anyhoo... onto card stock to use as templates.

I fused the fabic for the turtle shapes with paper backed fusible web and traced all the pieces, cut them out and then removed the paper and fused onto a strip pieced base rectangle of 9" by 6.5"

Freemotion outline stitching on all the turtle shapes and then made the quilt sandwich (you know layer the backing, batting with top and pin) and freemotion quilted the background. Trimed to 8.5" x 6" and rounded the corners, then added bias binding.

They were quick easy and fun to make!!

(blurry pics from my cell phone)

Now, I kinda like the idea of mug rugs!

Even in the heat of summer you can have some quilty goodness with you where ever you go!

Spring Deserves a New Quilt and a New Hobbie

2011-03-11T15:04:00.003-06:00

Last year Randi at 'i have to say...' hosted a Quilt-Along call 'On the Road to Spring' and what simple and quick quilts everyone made.

(Randi's finished quilt)

I am gathering up supplies for the 'Bottled Rainbow' quilt-along and this may take some time, its a leisurely quilt-along ya know!! :)

In the meantime we have a new addition, or I quess you could say a new hobbie - a mini camping trailer. I am getting supplies gathered up for the new camper and I need a blanket for the bed. I just can't see going out and buying something when I have so much fabric. I remembered Randi's quilt-along and knew that was the answer. All I would need to get would be the solid fabric for the squares.

The quilt is originaly 60"x50", this is to small for the camper bed so I did some math.

Original quilt is made with 100- 3.5"x 3.5" squares and 100- 7.5" x 3.5" rectangles.
5 of the rectangles and 5 of the squares in each row, alternating rows of 20 rows to = 60" x 50"

Let's make the rectangles 'A' and the squares 'B'
A-7.5 x 3.5 (finished size 7x3) and B-3.5 x 3.5 (finished size 3x3)
Using this example to resize the width of the quilt

For a 60" wide quilt I would need 1 more each A and B for each row, for 70" I need 2 more each A and B than the original quilt.

For a 70" wide x 81" long quilt:

If there are 7 each of A and B in one row it would be 70" wide (7x3=21, 7x7=49, 21+49=70)
If each row is 3" tall then I need 27 rows to be 81" tall (27x3+81)
How many rectangles and squares, 7x27=189. 189 rectangles and 189 squares. (for the 60" wide x 81" long quilt I would need 162 each A and B)

Next how much fabric? Determining yardage

Block A -189 random print fabric rectangles 7.5 x 3.5
I can get 5 rectangles from a strip of 44" wide fabric, cut 3.5 across the 44" width
or if I cut a 7.5 strip across the 44" width I can get 12 rectangles.

If using yardage instead of fat quarters (see below on fat quarters) out of how many different fabrics can I get the 189 rectangles I need?

From the 3.5" strips:

7 fabrics - need 27 rectangles - 6 strips of 3.5 x 44 or .75 yards (makes 189 rectangles)

8 fabrics - need 24 rectangles - 5 strips of 3.5 x 44 or .5 yards (makes 192 rectangles)

9 fabrics - need 21 rectangles - 5 strips of 3.5 x 44 or .5 yards (makes 189 rectangles)

10 fabrics - need 19 rectangles - 4 strips of 3.5 44 or .5 yards (makes 200 rectangles)

Or the 7.5" strips

8 fabrics - need 24 rectangles - 2 strips of 7.5 x 44 or .5 yards (makes 24 rectangles)

9 fabrics - need 21 rectangles - 2 strips of 7.5 x 44 or .5 yards (makes 24 rectangles)

**there seems to be a lot of waste if I figure 7 or 10 fabrics using this method**

7 fabrics - need 27 rectangles - 3 strips of 7.5 x 44 or .75 yards (makes 36 rectangles)

10 fabrics - need 19 rectangles - 2 strips of 7.5 x 44 or .5 yards (makes 24 rectangles)

*But if I have a fat quarter I would need to cut 2- 7.5 x 21 strips and then cut the 7.5 x 3.5 rectangles. Well if one 7.5 fq strip will give me 10 rectangles:

Each fat quarter would give me 10 rectangles. I would need 19 fat quarters.

From all this I learned that the best cuts are 7 or 9 fabrics in the 3.5" strips or the 8 fabrics in the 7.5" strips from the yardage or go with 19 fat quarters.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Block B - 189 solid fabric 3.5" x 3.5" squares. I can get 12 - 3.5" squares from 1 strip, and with 16 strips I can get the needed 189 squares (actually makes 192 squares 3 more than I need). I need 1.75 yards of solid fabric. I think I am going to use Kona cotton in Ivory.

I have 7 print fabrics in brown, green and blues in 1 and .5 yards cuts, and a few fat quarters so I will be using a mixture of these cutting styles. But all in all I need 189 print rectangles.

I always seem to make things more dificult that they are!!

Yummy, yummy color all stitched in scraps!!

2011-03-01T15:23:00.001-06:00

Bottled Rainbows {ticker tape quilt-along} by Stitched in Color.

What a lovely idea!! Pop over to Rachel's blog Stitched in Color and check it out!!!

Maybe for once I can join in - "it's a leisurely quilt-along inspired by Rachel's own bottled rainbows."

See, she even said it too!! Leisurely - I think I can handle :-)

Transition Look from Fashion under $100

2011-02-18T12:51:00.000-06:00

She hit the nail on the head with this look from Fashion Under $100 for transitioning into spring. Even though the look is for a reader who wants to wear jeans to her bridal shower, this is a great look for early spring! Skinny jeans can come off looking to casual/rocker but the tunic style top with the bow detail pumps it up to lady like feminine. Adding the flats doesn't call to much attention to the jeans, so this lets the girlie top and accessories do all the talking.

Simplicity 2456 view B with the addition of the tie would be just about exactly the same as the Blouse from Ruche and unlike the Ruche top this pattern comes in plus sizes!!!

Now off to find a pair of black flats in a size 9.

Beautiful BOM!!!

2011-02-11T13:32:00.000-06:00

When I saw Erin's My Tweets block of the month I was breathless!!!!

Absolutely Stunning!!!

This the center block. Isn't it lovely!!!

Please stop by her blog for the most beautiful eye candy ever!!!

Quilt-y China

2011-02-08T16:43:00.000-06:00

If you google 'Dresden Plate Tutorial' you will find many amazing toots. Even Patterns for great kitchen accessories, like this from Kim Walus featured on Moda Bake Shop.

Love the plate chargers using wool felt.

And if you use google for Dresden Plate images you can see so many fun ways to use the quilt block.

Like little girl skirts by Crafter Hours.

And look how cute this bag is by Fibermania.

All pretty awe - inspiring!!

My Blogger Love is Waning

2011-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

I am very sorry, I seem to have lost my blogger love. Not sure why or what is up I hope others can understand or simpathize.

Gotta kick it in gear, and get motivated!!!

Anyone else feeling this way?

As a Quiet Little Seedling

2010-12-30T14:28:00.000-06:00

As I sit here, I feel as if I am ready for 2010 to end, I find many moments to ponder. Oh, there are many happy times, but a few sad and painful too. I feel much like the seedling in Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem 'The Seedling' waiting for the new year.

AS a quiet little seedling
          Lay within its darksome bed,
To itself it fell a-talking,
      And this is what it said:

"I am not so very robust,
          But I'll do the best I can;"
And the seedling from that moment
          Its work of life began.

So it pushed a little leaflet
          Up into the light of day,
To examine the surroundings
          And show the rest the way.

The leaflet liked the prospect,
          So it called its brother, Stem;
Then two other leaflets heard it,
          And quickly followed them.

To be sure, the haste and hurry
          Made the seedling sweat and pant;
But almost before it knew it
          It found itself a plant.

The sunshine poured upon it,
          And the clouds they gave a shower;
And the little plant kept growing
          Till it found itself a flower.

Little folks, be like the seedling,
          Always do the best you can;
Every child must share life's labor
          Just as well as every man.

And the sun and showers will help you
          Through the lonesome, struggling hours,
Till you raise to light and beauty
          Virtue's fair, unfading flowers.

Jammies Sewalong Pattern

2010-11-22T14:41:00.001-06:00

I am contemplating using the free pattern at Simplicity, it's part of their Sewing 101. I would be simple and quick to make for the pajama sewalong.

It's a simple pj pant, in Misses', Men's and Teens' sizes.

Basically x-small, small, medium, large and x-large.

How can you beat a pattern that is simple and has only 2 pattern pieces!

Not sure about sewing a top as of yet.

Now if I could only find the fabric before Thursday.

Jammies Sewalong

2010-11-19T13:30:00.000-06:00

Ann of Gorgeous Things is hosting a pajama sew along on Thanksgiving weekend. Sounds like fun!!

Genie's Skirt

2010-11-17T15:02:00.001-06:00

Here I go again, I have become captivated by Genie's Skirt at Anthropologie.ue. It is so cute, and in gray corduroy - my oh so favorite color this fall!!

Genie's Skirt

"Pilcro's cord fit-and-flare skirt rises like a dream from a flowing hemline into a contouring pencil frame."

Could you just see this looking pretty with a classic cardigan sweater set, lovely tights and retro heels?!!! Corduroy in a flirty ruffle-y feminine 8 gore fitted skirt!! And how did they get the corduroy to cooperate and create that flirty ruffle?

Why do I do this to myself? Find something there is no pattern exactly like it and feel as I have to make it. (feeling a little down about having to draft or alter a pattern - yet again)

Ok lets see - the Genie skirt is an 8 gore fitted pencil skirt with ruffle/flounce attached hem, 21 inches long, the front hem is slightly higher than the back hemline, traditional waistband, side zipper, back yoke and topstitching details.

The contenders are...

New Look 6433

View C

This pattern is in my stash, but I have never sewn it. I like the hemline, although it goes up in the back also that would need altered. The length is much longer than 21 inches (21" is a bit to short for me anyway) but it could be shortened to hit at the knee. I would need to create the 8 gores and remove the darts, add the yoke and then add a waist band.

Simplicity 3881

View A

I have sewn view 'A' a few times and it fits and flatters my figure. The skirt it's self is a slight A-line and the ruffle does not have the oomph the Genie does. The hemline would need altered lifting the front up a bit, create 8 gores removing the darts, add the yoke and waist band.

After work I may pull out my Burda mags and see if there are any close patterns. BUT if you know of one that might work please oh please let me know!!!

My Son's Vest'ed Interest 2

2010-11-16T11:12:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the sad pictures and all the wrinkles but I had to grab a shot when I could and that happened to be after he had wore it all night long. (and he has the bottom button undone - this what I get after a late night and a "come on mom hurry up I am tired")

Here's a review on Simplicity 2870

Pattern Description: Project Runway Men's lined vest. Vest with front darts, 6 front buttons, various optional pockets and back tab or back buckle .
Pattern Sizing:
AA has sizes 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 and BB has sizes 44, 46, 48, 50, 52. I made a size 44 for my son.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, it was exactly what he wanted.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Somewhat, I did not use the pocket instructions. Nothing that stood out as incorrect, but the welt pocket was just to fiddley - so I use a tutorial online at Burda Style One Piece Welt Pocket
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I like the various options and styles that make this men's vest versatile.
Fabric Used:
Crepe backed satin from fabric.com and some fancy silver buttons and poly gray lining from JoAnn's.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
No real alterations other than the one piece welt pocket (which is awesome by the way!) I did line the satin with poly fusible interfacing - but would use woven fusible instead next time.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, but not sure when it all depends on if my son asks for another one.
Conclusion:
Great vest with many style options.

Fashion Looks 1

2010-11-10T14:24:00.000-06:00

After loving the look from the blog Fashion Under $100 , I was surfing during lunch at the office (shhh, don't tell - ok?!) and happened upon Coldwater Creek's outfits section and fell in love with a look that I would call 'Relaxed Chic'.

I know I have most of this already in the closet, but not at the Coldwater Creek prices. And of course adding my little twist here and there.

I went shopping last weekend at the outlet and found these cute Nine West gray suede slouchy boots, oh so comfy!!

These denim leggins from ANA at JCPenney's are so comfortable and not overly tight at all!! I was always saying I would never wear leggings again, but once I read the reviews and then tried them on I was sold! Yes they are a sinful purchase for fall - I got 3 pairs one of each color black, denim and gray. I know your saying "WHAT you did not sew a pair?" but on sale they were cheaper than I could make them.

Thrifted a long gray cardigan just last month, that looks very much like this one. Although I am not as tiny as this lovely lady, but it does look quite nice on me if I do say so myself.

Now here's the sewing part - I NEED some long sleeve tops and I am thinking that maybe Burda's Tee pattern 8244 (out of print) might work (it's in my pattern stash).

Or Hot Patterns Plain and Simple Tee

in a deep charcoal or aubergine knit.

Last fall I bought a long silver and gold necklace at Avenue, and some nice silver hoops will top this look off.

Fun Fashion Blog

2010-11-03T16:54:00.000-05:00

I am sure you have seen the blog Fashion Under $100, I am a stalker of Dana's!! I can spen hours looking at the archives, drooling over styles of the stars. And with her tips I can afford to look as good too!!

Right now I am obsessed with Dec 2008 Kim Kardashian's look

Although the look is from 2008, it is still so classy for today! Great weekend look or with a tweak here and there I can pull this off on a casual Friday at work.

I do think I will make a few changes here and there, like darker jeans maybe med/dark wash.

I ordered the new pattern by Hot Patterns - The Dressy Jean. Oh, and I can't wait to get it!!!

I already have this Target Heather Gray Tank.

And on it's way from JCPenney's is The Worthington V-Neck Cardigan in black. Love the boyfriend cardy look with pockets. Or the Hot Patterns Riviera Cardi would be cute! hmmmmm, gonna have to think about getting that pattern.

Sitting in my closet are a pair of Nine West Oxfords, I bought these last year at the outlet store during Chrismas.

And the scarf is lovely, but I want to make a serger scarf using decorative threads in white, black and grays. They are so fun and easy to do! I made a sample in browns and gold, but forgot to take pictures before my son's girlfriend saw it and there was no way of keeping it from her - her favorite color is brown.

My son's 'Vest'ed Interest

2010-10-24T14:57:00.002-05:00

My son has me working on Simplicity 2870

Men's lined vest, we are working on a vest with the collar, lower welt pockets and back tab.

In this fabric Silver polyester satin

I have it all cut out and ready to sew up.

Birthday Goals - Why I ask?

2010-09-09T13:10:00.000-05:00

I was reading up on my blog list and Allie at My Wardrobe Today post about a '40 before 40' list. And this made me think - Would I?
Uhmm, nope! Not this 45 year old - nope no '50 before 50' list for me.

I am not so crazy about making list to fulfill before a certain age. It’s more apt to lead to disappointments when you hit your birthday deadline. I remember all to well my 30th and what an emotional journey it was when I realized that I was no were near to what the person I wanted to be or had envisioned to be. It was horriable!! Crying and a pity party, not at all a pretty sight.

But after the realization that my life is an ever growing and changing experience I made peace with myself. The idea that where I am at this moment and time and all that I DID accomplish to this point is more meaningful than what I didn’t accomplish.

I am not saying that goals are a bad thing, but as long as they are not so out of reach or to concrete, goals should be achievable. Goals are good to have in your horizon to help you move along, but life can seriously change at a moments notice and you don't have much control over how affects you.

Plus all the negativity of placing a certain age within a 'To Do' list can seem depressing. I never want to limit myself, and at any age I want to do, see and achieve what ever makes me happy!! Life is way to short, live it with your heart not by a list of what to do next...

Famous Words Of Lincoln

2010-09-07T12:28:00.000-05:00

"You can please some of the people all of the time, you can please all of the people some of the time, but you can’t please all of the people all of the time."

It's an age old saying that still holds true today!!!

This blog is about me and the things that bring me happiness. The posts may or may not be something everyone likes to reads, and that's fine. I try not to post politics, religion, or negativity - cause I figure if I have nothing good to say then I will try not to say it. I talk about sewing, fashion, crafts, quilting, cooking and life in general - which by no means is because I am an authority on these subjects, heck no! I post because I am a shy person and this is a way of sharing what I like with the world but still staying within my comfort zone. I am glad that those few who read do enjoy what they read. I hope that what I have to share is fun, entertaining and maybe helpful in some way. I have met some fantastic 'blogger' friends that I would have never met without this blog and hope to continue to grow my new found friendships. I did have someone disagree and they did not like what I posted and to that I say 'sorry, but it's just my blog - a simple little blog'.

I guess what I am saying with this post is - I hope you enjoy what you read here, and if not that's perfectly ok.

It it looks funny...

2010-08-27T15:45:00.000-05:00

then maybe it is. I am just changing up a few things on the blog, so if it looks funny then it is and I am trying to tweak a few things and change over to a gmail account and basically some house cleaning if you will - of said blog.

see ya in a bit and hopefully I haven't deleted the wrong things!

When one blog leads you to another and then another....

2010-08-26T13:48:00.001-05:00

While catching up on blogs that I follow I was reading Inside Out Style by Imogen were she had posted 'Weekend Reading: Trends, Stress and Personal Style' with links to blogs that I also read but somehow had missed the blog post on Sal's blog Aready Pretty. I had missed reading the post 'Wardrobe Cycling', which by the way was awesome! After reading the post I got curious about the Out Fit List that Sal keeps. She explained how she keeps a simple list of outfits that help her stay on top of her wardrobe making her time in the mornings much more managable.

Well, this got me to thinking, should I try to make a list of the items in my closet. A scary and daunting task I am sure, but as I investigated deeper I found more and more on the subject of wardrobe inventory. So upon the idea of creating a list I wondered if there were any spreadsheets or helpful files in cyberspace. I happened upon this Wardrobe Inventory PDF from Virtuous Weddings (not to sure what a wardrobe plan has to do with planning a wedding, but then again it's a good inventory list to use for one's closet). There is a PDF on Fengshui for your closet with a list you fill in, the Buget Fashionisa has a wardrobe check list, and 4-H wardrobe planning PDF. And then I found phone apps - like this iPhone app called the Pocket Closet and the Android app for smart phones called MyCloset. I never would have thought that something like that was out there, but it is, how cool!!

Delightful Bohemian Posh!!

2010-08-23T12:47:00.000-05:00

Ruby Mines turquoise wrap bracelet tutorial

is absolutely beautiful fun.

I think this bracelet made with garnet would be stunning!!

It keeps staring at me....

2010-08-19T09:34:00.000-05:00

Yea I know what's up?? Well, the watermelon quilt is sitting there staring at me like an evil little child taunting me knowing I am at a loss as to how I should quilt it. I am at a loss, a total loss! I could just quilt it like they did in the pattern, that would be ok. But I just don't know, what would make the watermelon slices stand out?

Have you ever thought you had it going great and then at the last minute you feel as you haven't got a clue??

Watermelon Shoefly Quilt Pieced

2010-08-13T15:18:00.000-05:00

The top is pieced and ready to go. It is really a quick and easy quilt. But after this I will have had my watermelon fix for the summer. I used all fat quarters and even for the background in the shoefly blocks to give it a scrapy look but used a black with white polka dot for the sashing to tie it all together.

Now I am pinning and pinning it so the the next step up is quilting. I use to do this on the floor but my knees can not handle it anymore so I put it on a large table and worked from the center out. Not to sure what type of quilting, line or free motion quilting. So hopefuly this weekend I will get it quilted and the binding on.

The Tee-Shirt Dress has Evolved

2010-08-12T15:56:00.000-05:00

Remember in the 80's when you could take a plain tee and then add gathered cotton print to the bottom to create a dress...

They were cute, but have gone by the wayside like Mom jeans. Maybe you might make one for a little one in your life, but these dresses are so not in fashion for adults of modern day. The style was way too 'happy-hands-at-home' for most.

Until Leanne came along and made up some quite modern and fashionable T-shirt Dresses. It's almost like the crafty-cutesy Tdress was a brightly colored caterpillar, and for many years the caterpillar is changing into a chrysalis away from fashion and the well dressed, and now the beautiful butterfly spreads it's wings to join all the lovely dresses we can wear.

Visit Leanne at ElleApparel

Sexy, chic and feminine is what I think of when I see this beautiful Coral Dress. She has beautiful, age appropriate, in-fashion tutorials for T-dresses that do not look like 'happy-hands-at-home'!

I am definitely putting this one on the

MUST DO LIST!!

Watermelon Shoefly Update

2010-08-10T22:18:00.000-05:00

Went by JoAnn's on my way home from work and picked up a stack of fat quarters to start the Watermelon Shoefly quilt. I started cutting for the shoefly blocks and did some piecing, but at this point I need to get some sleep. I will post pics tomorrow when I get home from work and can show some of these cute little blocks.

Cleavage Control!!

2010-08-09T20:21:00.000-05:00

If your like me and are a bit top heavy sometimes the tops you like and that would be flatterning just don't feel comfortable - well, put it this way they leave way to much for viewing if you know what I mean. I usually pull out a trusty cami or tank to wear underneath, but lately here in Florida the temps are soaring and with humidity making the heat index at record temps it's just to hot to be layering clothing.

Moda Bake Recipe by Kim Walus

Kim Walus of bitty bits & pieces got together with Moda and stirred up one awesome recipe the Faux Cami. What a lovey creative and helpful fashion addition to anyone's wardrobe. I can see these used in so many ways, and so many different fabrics. Couldn't you just see this done in a lovely soft lace also.

A & E Pharmacy Fun!

2010-08-07T18:00:00.006-05:00

Drove to pensacola to visit my favorite fabric shop A&E Pharmacy.

By the looks of it you wouldn't know they have the largest collection of quilting fabrics in the panhandle of Florida, but they do!

In my haul I got some geometric prints in blue, yellow and green. It's for a quilt I will be making for someone special's little someone special. It's a suprise so I will tell more later.

And it continues...

2010-08-06T08:39:00.000-05:00

I love Ann Taylor clothing but

COME ON, AGAIN?

Really? You didn't learn from the first mistake,

and all the public out cry that was a result of it?!?!

Learn more here

While on the subject of watermelon...

2010-08-05T14:28:00.002-05:00

and all it's sweetness, it's the fruit most assosiated with summer. Besides being a tasty treat watermelon is the Lycopene Leader in fresh produce, having higher concentrations of lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. In fact, fresh watermelon contains higher levels of lycopene than fresh tomatoes - a 2-cup serving of watermelon contains and average of 18.16 mg and one medium-sized tomato contains 4 mg. Something good for us 'of a certian age' fighting aging free radicals. A watermelon contains about 6% sugar and 92% water by weight. Watermelon is also mildly diuretic and contains large amounts of beta carotene.

Some fun water melon facts:
•The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt.
•Over 1,200 varieties of watermelons are grown worldwide in 96 countries.
•Watermelon's official name is Citrullus Lanatus of the botanical family Curcurbitaceae. It is cousins to cucumbers, pumpkins and squash.
•By weight, watermelon is the most-consumed melon in the U.S., followed by cantaloupe and honeydew.
•Early explorers used watermelons as canteens.
•The first cookbook published in the U.S. in 1776 contained a recipe for watermelon rind pickles.
•In 1990, Bill Carson of Arrington, TN grew the largest watermelon at 262 pounds that is still on the record books (1998 ed. Guinness Book of World Records).

Not only is watermelon tasty but it makes an awesome mojito!!

And you knew I would have to put my quirky little twist on it didn't you?!?!

Watermelon Mojito

Ingredients

2 1/2 to 3 pounds watermelon flesh, pits removed
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup packed mint leaves, plus more for garnish
2 1/2 cups white rum
1/4 cup agave syrup

Directions

In a blender, puree watermelon, fresh lime juice and mint in batches until smooth. Strain into a pitcher. Mix in rum and syrup. Serve in glasses filled with ice and garnish with mint leaves.

Ahhh, the sweetness of summer!!

Next Project: Watermelon & Shoefly Quilt

2010-08-04T20:52:00.004-05:00

I am thinking about a quilt from May/June 2010 issue of Fons and Porter: Love of Quilting. The quilt is called Watermelon and Shoe Fly.

This is the picture in the magazine. It is 42" x 56" and done in flannels, I on the other hand would like to use cotton prints. It is a small throw size which is perfect for summer when it's realy to hot to be under a quilt but a great accent on the couch.

Pink and Green Nomad

2010-08-03T13:03:00.001-05:00

Pattern Description:

Hot Patterns Nomad Hobo Handbag

Free pattern from Fabric dot com

Lined Hobo has a square base, a seamed front & back and wide cut-on handles. Hobo is open at the top with an optional magnetic closure, and features optional phone and zippered interior pockets.

Pattern Sizing:

One size, but depending how you print it out you can change the size.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Well, kinda, but different because of the fabrics.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, but there was a problem with the placement of the magnetic closure. If you do it as the instructions say it would be located on the sides of the straps. I changed this and placed the snap on the other sides.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I like the slouchy, casual hobo look to it. And it holds a lot of stuff! The placement of the magnetic snap in my opinion should be on the open sides not the strap sides.

Fabric Used:

Cotton fabric for the outside and a silky poly print for the inside all from JoAnn’s fabrics.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

When I printed the pattern I changed my printer preferences to print it at 90% of the original. This made it a tiny bit smaller than the original size, but it still is a large bag and holds so much. For the outside of the bag I sewed fabric strips in a quilt braid design. Like this Quilters Cache Braid. I traced the pattern onto cotton muslin and then marked placement for the fabric strips. Sewed the strips and when finished I trimmed to the pattern size.

Then like a quilt - I used a muslin backing layered with cotton batting and then the pattern piece on top. I hand quilted each piece with cotton pearl in pink. For the straps I did not cut and quilt as the rest of the outside, I made handles that I inserted when the outside and inside were stitched together.

After all the pieces were quilted I then assembled the outside as the instructions. I sewed the inside as the instructions except for the zipper pocket. I did the zipper pocket as I always do like this toot at Handbag-U.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, thinking of gray suede for this fall.

I would say its an easy sew, and fun.

Conclusion:

Cute, casual and fun. Pay close attention to the magnetic snap placement.

Make it fun or funky depending on the fabric choice.

No Excuses

2010-08-02T16:16:00.001-05:00

That's it, I can't make any more excuses!!

The month of July has flown by and absolutely nothing has been accomplished.

Sad !!!

So that's it, I am going post as much as I can for the month of August starting today!

(so don't ask me I ain't got no excuses)

Test

2010-07-27T18:26:00.001-05:00

Testing blogaway

Tying up loose ends...

2010-07-21T10:58:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the quiet, I am not one to be known to be so quiet.
Thanks for sticking with me and please know that soon I will post some fun tutorials!

Pretty...

2010-07-06T12:14:00.000-05:00

Angie posted this in her blog, and I just have to pass this on!!!

Back from the Big Easy....

2010-06-22T11:48:00.001-05:00

We are back from our trip to New Orleans and the quilt show in Slidel. It was so much fun and so relaxing. I will post pictures soon!!

But in the meantime here is a very talented man we had the pleasure to see!

Oasis Zest Dress Copy Pt 1

2010-06-13T12:29:00.000-05:00

I found a large floral jersey at JoAnn's, it's not what I wanted as in a border print in woven but it is pretty and will look just lovely.

Also because it's a knit I can stick with the size 16 and not worry so much about excess fabric. I do however still need to measure the pattern in the hip area to make sure I have the correct amount of ease for a knit. When I made the first dress I had to pinch a wedge from the front yoke just a tad to fit which made it a bit more curvy than it was.

The drawing is in a pink color but I will make the yoke in black to draw the eye up because in this dress I am not going to add a draw string like in my first N6778. The Oasis dress has a deeper neckline and short hem line. I am not to crazy about both together, you know it's always good to show off one or the other but if you show off to much leg and cleavage - well lets just say it's not my style! I am going to sew up the shorter hem line and keep the neckline up a little.

I am going back to the sewing room and get started drafting today. I'll post more as I go.

toodles lovelies!!

An Oasis of Inspiration

2010-06-10T16:04:00.000-05:00

I found a new web shop for some dress ideas at Oasis, new to me but prolly not so new to you - hey I am slow ya know ;0) Oasis is a UK based company that offers a feminine fashionable fun line of clothing. Some of the items remind me a little of Anthropologie, and we just love the vintage vibe there right!?! Well I do!!!

All three of these dresses remind me of....

Favorite Things Praire Girl dress pattern.

Little changes here and there, some lace, eyelet and a pin tuck or two. It is amazing how looking at ready to wear for insiration and paying close attention to the design lines can translate into a pattern you might already have or never would have thought about sewing for yourself. And if your lucky enough maybe a few $$ less than the RTW price.

Now all those dresses are ones that I love the look of and would wear. I have this pattern in my stash and would like to make a few in different styles and colors, but this has to go on the design board for now as I have so much waiting to be cut and sewn already.

Something else to drool over...

Oasis Zest Border dress!!

This dress just screams 'sexy on a hot steamy summer evening sipping cosmos by the pool' and not to mention comfortable!! Also this dress would be great for my up coming trip to New Orleans, don't you agree?

I am obsessed! Yep, obsessed with this dress!! I am thinking that if I take New Look 6778 which I have already made here. Using a solid color for the yoke and a border print for the body of the dress. The inspiration dress is a halter dress and New Look is not, but I think the curved yoke that N6778 has will have a similar look and feel to the original's U-shaped neckline and with straps I don't have to worry about bra peek-a-boo. Now my only real problem is that my trip is a week from today, and ordering fabric might be risky so on my way home tonight I will stop by JoAnn's and see if I can find some fabric. Otherwise I will order and cross my fingers it gets here fast!

Gotta Be....

2010-06-08T13:46:00.000-05:00

New Look 6778

2010-06-03T13:02:00.000-05:00

Pattern Description: Easy *2 Hour A-line sundress, view A and B have front yoke and gathers, view C and D have a gathered front and optional accents. Two lengths with side ties and 4 strap options

Pattern Sizing: 6 thru 16. I cut view A in size 16 and added to the waist and hips, as this pattern does not come in a plus size.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Somewhat, I added a drawstring to keep it from looking like 'what you got hiding under there?'

Were the instructions easy to follow? Well, I didn't read them. Sorry but it is a pretty basic pattern, other than the gathers in the front.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Nothing to dislike. What I like is it was fast and easy. I cut it out on Thursday and sewed it up after work on a Friday to wear to a Luau party on Saturday. The drawstring added more time to my sewing than the envelope stated but in the end the results were worth the extra effort.

Fabric Used: I really wanted a festive and colorful fabric but this being a last minute project I did not have the time to order fabric. A woven rayon faux batik in browns from the local JoAnn's, it's not the festive and colorful fabric I wanted to use but I am sure will get lots of wear out of. It has nice drape and is very cool for hot summers.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I omitted the side ties. When cutting out the pattern I cut a size 16 for the front yoke and yoke facing. For the front I added a one inch to the center front at the fold (this added more gathers to the center front so I would not need a FBA) and graded out one inch on the sides starting just under the bust to the waist and hips. For the center back I cut on the fold instead of having a center seam, I also added 1 to the back sides starting just under the bust out to the waist and hips. I gathered and stitched the front to the front yoke then sewed the sides together. Found out where the straps should be and basted them in place. Then sewed the facing of self fabric to the front yoke right sides together. I made a back facing in self fabric and stitched that right sides together. (both facings are finished on the bottom edge with my serger before sewing to the dress) I did not turn the facings right side out yet, I made bias tape from self fabric and stitched this starting ontop of the front facing and under the arm until I reached the back facing, then did the same to the other underarm - this way when the facing is turned right sideout is will hide the beginning of the bias that is finishing off the under arm ~ is that clear as mud??

Maybe a picture would help:

Turned it right sideout and pressed, top stitched the facings down about 1/4 inch from edge starting at the right underarm and continuing all the way around and back to the starting point. Hand stitched the bottom of the front facing. I added a casing for the drawstring on the inside of the dress and used button holes for the draw string.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will be sewing this again. I have a trip to New Orleans coming up and would like to make another one to take with me.

Conclusion: Cute easy dress, but might look a bit like tent without the drawsting. Quick easy and cool for the hot Florida summers. With a summer cardigan it will fit right into my office attire.

I am my own worst critic!!! My husband snapped photos as we were heading out the door to the luau. Out of 10 photos this is the only one I would post due to the unlady like faces and robot like poses.

Sociable Guerilla Bagging

2010-05-28T15:29:00.000-05:00

How do we stop using these?

PLASTIC BAG CONSUMPTION FACTS

• Each year, an estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide. That comes out to over one million per minute. Billions end up as litter each year.

• According to the EPA, over 380 billion plastic bags, sacks and wraps are consumed in the U.S. each year.

• According to The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. goes through 100 billion plastic shopping bags annually. (Estimated cost to retailers is $4 billion)

• According to the industry publication Modern Plastics, Taiwan consumes 20 billion bags a year—900 per person.

• An estimated .7% or 49,600,000 end up as litter each year.

• Four out of every five bags handed out at grocery stores are plastic.

• They are rarely recycled and don’t degrade in the natural environment, much less in a landfill.

Morsbags

It can be hard to make a difference in the world, but even something as small as a reusable fabric tote can make a big impact on the world. They have a free pattern for an easy to make tote, a forum and even printable lables to spread the word. Check out the flicker group too!!

And whats better than making a fashion statement and saving our ecosystem at the same time?!!!

all photos courtesy of www.morsbags.com

What does one wear to a luau?

2010-05-27T13:29:00.000-05:00

I have been invited to a luau party this weekend, but the question remains....

Hummmmm, nope not going the coconut bra and grass skirt route.

Now this might be a good idea....

Now if I could just find some fabric and fast!!!!

Should I buy a Lottery Ticket?

2010-05-24T12:36:00.000-05:00

What a great week last week - see a few nice things happened to me

I won the Aveeno give-away at Middle Ageless. Love the blog and Middle Ageless Forum!! You really must check them out.

My Ripley won the Best of Show at the Pet Day here locally. She is my sweetie, a daschund piebald dapple mix (piebald and dapple are colorings). Here she is being silly for the camera.

And lastly my son went to his prom, and they are so cute!! A big deal for thier age you know!!

Great weekend!! Now should I buy a lottery ticket or has my luck run out - haha!!

Blogger's Quilt Festival

2010-05-21T12:55:00.000-05:00

Amy is hosting the third blogger's quilt festival

Please go check it out, lots and lots of eye candy in the flicker group pool.

I'm getting back to...

2010-05-17T12:30:00.000-05:00

After an emotional ride I am ready to get back to normal!

I finished the blue dot skirt and with or without weightloss it's done and fits me now. I will post pics as soon as there is a pretty day, it's been raining and yucky outside. I bought some beige linen/rayon blend for a pair of cropped pants. It's in the wash now and will be washed and dried again to shrink it before I start cutting. I am thinking of New Look 6354. I like the wide elastic waist, and the fact that they do not look like elastic waist pants I luv! I have made them before but need to grade the pattern up one size.

And maybe Hot Patterns Cowl-neck top. I think they would look good together.

I am also getting back on the wardrobe therapy, even though I am so far behind I am going to get it done because my closet needs it!!

Self-Degradation

2010-05-05T11:31:00.000-05:00

Self-Degradation: The act of degrading one's self, or the state of being so degraded.

My blogger friend Elise posted some thought provoking questions on her blog. With her 'Who the Hell is That' moment I can definintely identify with! I don't know who and how we have been brainwashed into thinking we aren't good enough, but I know it must stop!!

BUT IT IS HARD! When all around us we are constantly attacked by images and statements telling us how to look, how to feel and how to live our lives.

'Buy this, take this, feel this way'

I guess this would be akin to an addict and how they cope with life day to day, and avoiding the downfall of giving in to the affliction - pain, suffering and disease. We have to deal with loving ourselves on a day to day basis, or we will fail!

One way I am coping with 'Self-Degradation' is to have the outlook that we are all beautiful pieces of art. Yes art!!

While some art is openly beautiful, as in the Venus de Milo and the Birth of Venus - other art is beautiful in translation. When we say "she/he is beautiful" the term beautiful is descriptive of your attitude towards that individual. So can beauty be defined? No. For if I believe something to be beautiful you may not necessarily have the same opinion. Would this then be where our confusion lies? As we don't need to please everyone, but only ourselves!!

Beauty: the quality or aggregate of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit .

'Beauty is in the eye of the beholder' - but are you not the beholder? Don't you have the power to say what 'is' and 'is not' beautiful! When you degrade yourself you are taking away your power. Your power to see the beauty that truely is you. You dare to look deep inside and know you are beautiful and unique. Become empowered and fight those feelings of self doubt and self bashing. Realize the beauty of the world and how you are connected. Stop poisoning yourself with feelings of pain, you have the power!

Life's bumps in the road...

2010-05-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

Thank you all for the warm thoughts and hugs!!

You have helped me and my family in a rough time.

Farewell

2010-04-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

The sands of time are running low

And soon my children I must go

My heart with love for you is filled

But soon its beating must be stilled

I leave no treasures of any kind

Only my love I leave behind

Take it and share it between sister and brother

And always be kind to one another

Weep not beside the grave for me

Don't bring me flowers I cannot see

Only ashes lie neath the cold sod

Just pray that my soul has gone with God

Some of you perhaps may weep

When my eyes are closed in eternal sleep

But try to remember it won't be forever

For God can bring our spirits together

I pray that I go to a world far above

To be with the others that I love

And to wait awhile on that Heavenly plain

Until the day we shall meet again.

poem written by Florence McInnes

My grandmother passed away Sunday morning.

She truly was an angel on earth and in heaven!!

Lingerie Ad Up-Roar!!

2010-04-23T11:30:00.001-05:00

I am a little upset! Fox and ABC didn't want to air a lingerie comercial by Lane Bryant - Cacique, because they considered it to be to sexy?!?! Wait a minute if we can see Victoria's Secret comercials with almost naked ultra thin women, what is so different with plus sized models? Is it just another one of those quiet little things that society/media does to us women. It all boils down to the pressure of society/media on women and how we are not good enough/worthy/beautiful unless we are super thin and look a certian way! I have been fighting with body love issues forever so this really hit me in a soft spot. Is it prejudice? Do people have a prejudice towards heavery persons? We see it in a multitude of ways - heck I can admit for years of weight prejudice!! When I was thin or fighting to be thin I would see someone heaver than me and think - 'I don't ever want to be that heavy' 'how disgusting it must be to be that size', 'they can't possibly be happy like that'. Just watch tv and you are bombarded with ads for weight loss and how to get ripped in 90 days. We are a country that is fighting our weight! The average size of an America woman is 14. Now come on, those ultra thin models are no where close to a 14. So is it a weight prejudice issue? Or is it that a woman with a bit more 'meat' on her bones is actually sexier? I do believe that a woman needs curves but also needs to be healthy. Women should have differences in body shape and size. Society/Media needs to focus more on the beauty of our uniqueness, the fact that we are beautiful and sexy in our own way. Whether this was a true act of discrimination or a slight ploy of publicity on Lane Bryant's side it still stirred up a lot of talk. And this kind of talk is what we need to help change the pressure on woman and girls in America and how we view ourselves!!! What do you think?

Wardrobe Therapy Week 1 The Tasks

2010-04-18T17:47:00.001-05:00

Being so late to start Wardrobe Therapy I am going to have to fly through the weeks to catch up but still want to get the full effect of the process- it's already on week 4 of the 8 weeks.

So to finish off week 1:

1. Remove one (and only one!) unsuccessful item from your wardrobe.

Bought this jacket years ago with the intention of wearing it with jeans turtle-neck and boots in the winter and a tank in the slightly cooler months. I liked the wool patchwork but it has no shape!! Nada zip none - it's an 80's boxy oversized jacket and to boot the sleeves are way too short - I know can you believe it?!?! Why have I held onto this for all these years, this is another question for my psyche....

2.Do the opening questionnaire.

Did It.

3. Find yourself some sources of inspiration on personal style.

I use to subcribe to Lucky and In Style but started not liking all the ads and it seemed to me that there was really only a fraction of fashion advice and most of it for 20 somethings that are starving to death! I felt it was time to admit - yes, I gained a few pounds and gained a few years - not easy for one to admit to on both accounts!! So at 40 pounds heavier and 40'something years of age I canceled my subscriptions. It just seems there is not enough out there for the over 40 group!! I do like recieving catalogs from Boden, Lane Bryant and other online sites. But mostly I use the internet and bloggers for fashion ideas and tips.

4. Do something that makes you feel good about your body.

Ped/Mani done by me and using some bright colors are in order!

Ripley is checking out my toes painted with OPI in On Collins Ave. Oh and I even color the grays (hair), so there week one done.

I am off to cook up a storm in the kitchen - crawfish etouffee.............

Wardrobe Therapy's Questionnaire

2010-04-14T13:29:00.000-05:00

Better late than never - right? Getting started on the Wardrobe Therapy hosted by DrWende . It's already on week 4 but I will try and catch up but may still fall behind - with life in general it seems with me. I really need a proverbial kick in the wardrobe tushie! Ok, here are my answers to the questionnaire...

1. Thinking primarily (but not necessarily exclusively) about looks, who's your favorite performer of your own gender and species? Why?
I can’t pick just one, as I don’t think I would want to be all ‘that’ type of look. But a combination of a few, that’s more like the style I would like to meld into my own quirky attitude.

Audrey Hepburn for her feminine elegance, classic style with simplicity.

Stevie Nicks’ dramatic gypsy like frocks and she oozes with sexy.

Giadia De Laurentiis has a relaxed fresh classic yet modern-ness about her.
(Good movies, good music, and good food!!)

2. If you could live in any historic era with a really good clothing budget (as well as soap, toothpaste, and delicing as needed), when would you choose?
Well, I love the look of the Victorian era dresses and bustle skirts, but just the thought of wearing a tight corset makes me cringe. I also love the early 1900’s, and the ‘Gibson Girl’ hairstyle. I guess it’s the feminine qualities for those two historic eras I like the most. But in all reality I would choose now - as we have the freedom to wear what ever we like, unlike the past where women could not have worn pants if they pleased.

3. What's your favorite painting or other form of visual art? Why?

Red Poppy by Georgia O’keefe – When we lived in Italy every summer wild red poppies could be seen everywhere. I loved living in Italy and red poppies always remind me of that time.
Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh – how could a torchered soul paint such a hypnotizing painting. Even though he was so emotionally crippled the painting speaks to so many and in so many different ways.

4. What is your first memory in which clothes are important?
In school and how most of the other kids had name brands and I didn’t. Thinking back now it’s so silly – you can’t base your self worth on brands and fads. Oh, and my brothers were twins, mom always dressed them in matching but different colored shirts as in striped polos one would wear the white/blue and the other would wear white/green - you know how parents always dress twins.

5. What is your favorite garment ever? Why?

The dress I got married in. We didn’t have a traditional wedding, we got married at the courthouse with a friend as a witness. A cream white spaghetti strap sheath dress and cropped jacket with a lace collar that I purchased on sale just a few days before. I was so scared, this was a life changing moment and I almost did not go through with it, but now looking back I am so glad I wore that dress and made the choice to marry my husband!

Oh second fav is the red, black and white cowgirl outfit I got for Christmas in my much much younger years. It was fringetastic! It had a hat, shirt, skirt, boots and guns with gun holster. I made a mighty fine cowgirl!!!

6. What is your favorite garment in your wardrobe right now?
Does it have to be clothes? I have a great pair of orange cork wedges I am gushing over right now. Ok, I’ll fess up – clothing wise there really is not anything I would call my favorite, maybe that’s why my wardrobe is lacking some style.

7. What is the worst clothing purchase you can remember making?
Again with the shoes - Back in the 80’s a pair of clear plastic heels with gold trim – what a fad purchase! Also in the 80’s an ankle length gray twill sailor skirt it had ginormous white buttons, it was totally not me and was so unflattering. I tried to make it wearable by shortening the hem to at the knee, but it was a failure.

8. What's your most embarrassing clothing-related memory other than a bad purchase?
In high school while hanging out at the mall with on friends trying to look cool in my new white jeans I received my monthly gift (if you know what I mean). Luckily I had a good friend with me and she loaned me her jacket and we called my mom to come pick us up. I tied the arms of the jacket around my waist and was petrified someone would notice while waiting to get home as soon as possible. Utter humiliation I tell ya!!!

9. What body part (no more than three!) are you proud of and expect compliments on?
Oh, well I have to pick?? Come on really I have to?? Can I say finger nails? I can grow them fast and keep them groomed. Not a good one huh?! My legs. When I was younger and thinner I would wear mini skirts and shorts. I am not so proud now as back then and not as thin anymore, I am always on the look out for jeans in the right length. I have always been told I have pretty eyes, but I just don't know about that. Yep, it's sad - I really am just putting down answers that do not answer the actual question. I have to say I don't have a body part I am proud of and this also is part of my self esteem issues.

10. What body part (again, no more than three!) seems to require management, if not coaxing, cajoling, and sometimes outright begging if it's to please you?

I could say back fat, large hips, big thighs, ample derriere and large feet - but who doesn't cut themselves down in those areas? The most offending area is my belly. I have always had a belly even when I was stick thin. But lately I have to make sure things do not cling in that area.

11. If you could dress however you wanted all the time, what might you include?
Classic styles and solid colors adding a quirky element. I love lots of pearls with jeans and a v-neck tee. Sometimes adding bright colored shoes or artistic print top with relaxed but structured skirts. And most importantly comfortable!!

12. If you could shop at any store (or from any designer), which would you choose?
Ann Kline, Rebecca Taylor, Antonio Melani, Vera Wang. But really I don't know if I would change where I already shop, more so than making the right decisions for my body and personality. Then again if I felt more confident I might venture into some of the little indy shops in the area.

13. Where do you ordinarily shop now?
JcPenneys, Dillards sales, Avenue, Walmart (yuck) and Ross. Sometimes you can catch me at the thrift stores.

14. What clothing, accessory, or prettifying need (if any) do you enjoy shopping for?
Shoes, love love love shopping for shoes! Nail polish too! I am a girly girl and love shopping for jewelry, looking at makeup and shopping at Ulta.

15. Which one do you most loathe shopping for?
Bras!!! I need some but just can’t seem to find a brand that is comfortable and supportive. Also bathing suits, but this year I found a lovely swimdress that makes me feel pretty.

16. Do you consider yourself low-, medium-, or high-maintenance?
At one time I was high maintenance, but after being a mom and full time work I now am more of low/medium-maintenance. When my husband and I were dating it would take me forever to get ready, but now I can be ready in less than 30 minutes. I have kind-of let myself go, and think that this is also affecting how I feel about myself.

17. What are the two most frequent occasions that you dress for and how would you describe them?
Working weekdays in a small office, where the dress code is business casual and Fridays are jeans day. At work I am behind a desk most of the time and constantly staring at the computer screen. Relaxing at home on weekends and trips to the beach, which I usually wear shorts/jeans and comfy tops. I live in Florida so the heat is something I deal with constantly.

18. What was your favorite Hallowe'en costume ever?
One year I dressed up as a deer hunter. (oh, I wish I could find a picture to show!) I piled on turtle necks and camo pants with an orange vest, hiking boots, hid my hair in a hunting cap, used black eye makeup to make a 5 o’clock shadow, carrying a toy wooden shotgun and a large toy stuffed deer. No one knew who I was! It was so funny!

19. What do you see as the current problem(s) with your wardrobe and/or look?
I always grab items that make me feel sloppy and invisible. I have some issues with my self-esteem I need to work on. For some reason I am afraid to show who I am and put myself out there in my choices of what I wear.

20. At the end of WT, what lovely compliments do you want onlookers to give you?

Not necessarily do I need compliments, but it would be nice to know that others around me think I am ‘put together’, style/fashion appropriate, and pleasant to look at so to speak. But it wouldn’t kill me if someone did compliment me on my quirkiness. Oh and the hair, I forever long to have ‘envy hair! but darn I don't think changing my wardrobe is gonna' help the crazy-mind-of-its-own hair?

Boy that was hard - my head hurts now.....

My Biggest Problem with My Wardrobe/Style Redo...

2010-04-13T12:44:00.000-05:00

Is me. Yep me!

I think I know what to do fashion wise and I try and stock my closet with the 'right' things, but I always fall back on the items that do nothing for my body, say the wrong things about me and in no way help with my self esteem.

Ok, I went two weeks ago and purchased a couple cute dresses, a printed tee and short sleeved cardigan just to spice up my wardrobe. They fit are comfortable and look great - but I have not worn any of them not a one! I got up this morning and grabbed the same pair of way to short and baggy jeans that I wear at least twice a week, the faded company polo (which is for the casual office days not mandatory) and my sadly falling apart white keds. This outfit is pitiful, it does not convey the message of who I am, it makes me feel sloppy, almost invisible. So why do I keep pulling these out and wearing them?

This is a question that I need to dig deeper into my psyche to find. What are the reasons why I would want to dissapear or why I don't want people to know who I really am...

Have I done any sewing...

2010-04-06T14:48:00.000-05:00

ahh, no I am pretty lame huh?

Lately I have been all about changing my image to reflect me. Ya know, the real me!
I have been reading posts to help get a sense of my self and style -false self image - Already Pretty, middle age - Middle Ageless, wardrobe therapy - The Sky is Bigger There , choosing your colors Inside Out Style, formula for easy dressing Of a Certian Age and define your personnal style Dummies.com (I know kinda silly, but not to bad of a short read). There are books and books and books on these subjects, but I knew my blogger friends would have wonderful posts to help me out. If you dig a little on the blogs you will find even more wonderful advice. I am a little late but I am getting started on my wardrobe therapy Questionnaire and Research tonight. Got any good reading on creating personnal style?

A fun little quiz 'What Style of Clothes Are You?'
I am....

find your inner clothing style @ quizmeme.com

Blogger Greatness: Already Pretty!!

2010-04-01T13:58:00.000-05:00

Sal is one awesome person!! She is fashion savvy, courageous, honest, and inspiring!! Please read her post 'Tenets-of-Self-Care', and if you didn't feel good about yourself you will!!

Verity Hope Dresses by Malphi!

2010-03-11T13:18:00.000-06:00

Oh my goodness ~ I happened across Malphi's flicker account and discovered eye candy ~ the most beautiful linen wrap dresses.

If you haven't seen her work, you must!!!

One More Reason to Love Sewing....

2010-02-26T15:10:00.000-06:00

I was surfing the Boden site for inspirations last night and found the lovely 'Tea Dress'.

A cute summer dress in lovely floral prints with lovely velvet ribbon trim and gathers. A few things I noticed - they don't have sizes larger than 18 and this dress would look very pretty on plus gals! The price tag is way more than most would want to spend at a whopping $128.00. This Boden dress has a close twin .......

Rebecca Taylor's Vogue 1152 pattern

Isn't Rebecca so lovely in her own creation of the V1152 dress in a deep sapphire blue. Just beautiful with her fair skin and blond hair.

This Rebecca Taylor dress retails for $320.00 - Now that is like my monthly car payment!! It is pretty and I would looooove to own it - but alas I am not infinitely rich. Which brings me back to the reason why I love sewing. The only difference I can see is the hemline, that's all - and at the sale price of $3.99 on my last JoAnn's visit - Well thats much closer to fitting in my budget!

The line drawing is actually prettier than the photo of Vogue 1152. There is a side zipper and the pattern calls for crepe de chine, charmeuse and matte jersey fabrics, but i am wondering if it was made in a knit with a good amount of stretch the side zipper might not be needed. Doing a FBA should also be simple due to the princess seam. Designer clothes made for you with price tags that fit into your budget, you just can't beat that!!!

The Case of the Missing Skirt

2010-02-24T12:09:00.000-06:00

Where is that blue dotted print skirt you ask.....

well it was last seen in the sewing room on the sewing table.

hmmmm...... I have the zipper in and the side seams sewn and even the waist band pinned in,
but (yep there's that word)
- it is a TNT and easy pattern and there can't possibly be a good reason it's not finished yet!!! Or could there be????

but (again with this word) I am trying to lose a few pounds and thought since it was still to chilly maybe I should wait to sew in the waist band just in case (cough) I lost some weight and had to take it up.

So is this a silly reason? Or am I really a slacker?

Cold toes......

2010-02-16T13:34:00.001-06:00

My feet are always cold!! Hopefully it will warm up here soon, as you may have heard in the south we are freezing!! I know everyone is getting hit hard this winter and most of us are getting tired of being cold all the time. I can't wait for the temps to warm up so I can start dyeing fabrics for some quilt projects slated for tutorials. I want to show how I dye my fabrics and then how to piece the blocks for a few quilts. Now given this is a slightly larger task for me, but I think it will be very motivating for me and maybe a few others out there in blogland ;-) I am sooo excited to get my fingers dirty -my hands always end up with dye on them.

So in the meanwhile pop over and congratulate Jana at Lola...again on her Daytripper Bag being published in Quilt magazine. I ran out Saturday and got my copy as soon as I found out!!

Petals and Patterns

2010-02-07T12:25:00.000-06:00

I finally decided what I wanted to do with the Moda Boutique Layer Cake.

Petals, petals and more petals. All inspired by Kellie's quilt along at 'Don't Look Now', she is sooo awesome!!! I wanted to join in but just couldn't. So after watching all the beautiful blocks being made it motivated me to try a smaller slightly different block. I pulled out my EQ Block Book looking for Joseph's Coat patterns and found the 4 petal vesion - that was it!

Using all the tips and helpful hints Kellie gave I started hand appliqueing (is that spelled right??). This is a project that I can keep next to the couch and do at night while watching TV or take with me and work on while waiting at the doctors office.

This past Friday I ran to Jo-Ann's and picked up two patterns, who can pass up a sale?!?!

Vogue 8547

"Loose-fitting, lined jacket A has dolman sleeves with inset, cuffs, collar, pockets in side front seams and snap closing. Lined top B or dress C has fitted bodice, princess seams, shoulder straps, back zipper closing. B: lined to edge. C: flared skirt. A-lined skirt D, below mid-knee length, has front and back darts with grosgrain ribbon waistband, back zipper closing and split opening. Semi-fitted pants E sits 1" below waist with front and back darts and fly front opening."

This pattern I have been eyeing for a bit, I know there are other great pants patterns out there but something about these I like - the skirt is a basic and the jacket is a cutie. Not to sure about the dress and top, but it does go up to a size 20 and the top might make a nice tank for under jackets and cardigans.

Vouge 1152

"Loose-fitting dress has front and back princess seams, front and back gathers, front insets with contrast piping, back elastic casings, self-faced yoke, left side invisible zipper, short sleeves with pleated cap and gathered lower edge into self band and curved hem. Length is 2" above mid-knee at center front."

This dress is lovely! It has a hint of vintage and the gathered details are very feminine. I think for me though I will make the hem one length instead of the curved hemline, the curved hemline is a more youthful look that would look faboo on a 20/30 something. A big added benifit is this pattern goes up to a 22 for us plus sized ladies! :-)

I also picked up some cotton/lycra woven fabric in a dotted print. I am wishing for spring and loved the aqua/blue/green/ combo of this print and thought is would make a sweet little pencil skirt from my TNT McCall's 3830 in view C (just below knee length). Then Saturday I went for my very first pedicure ever with a BFF, had lunch with friends and found a cardigan in a deep blue-green color (they called it boardwalk blue) in the mall. It was a good day!!

Today I will start on the skirt, even though it's still to chilly to wear, at least it will be ready when it does warm up. ..... my mojo is BACK!!! ;-)

Mirror, mirror on the wall...

2010-01-18T10:57:00.000-06:00

How many baubles do you hold?

Whilst awating my mojo to return home, I decided to repurpose a mirror. By spray painting the frame and 20 - .96 cent wooden knobs from Lowes in black. Then I epoxied the knobs to the cleaned and painted mirror; and now have a pretty place to hang and store my jewelry. (it's really hard to photograph a mirror)

That is just about all I did this weekend in the way of crafty-ness.

Lunch Time Shopping

2010-01-15T14:02:00.000-06:00

To try to locate my mojo I went to a local quilt shop for lunch. I browsed the shop, fondled the pretty fabrics, and glanced at some awsome patterns. At first I was overwhelmed by all the fabo fabrics, all the patterns were wonderful and I was a little - well you could say I was a bit confused as to where to start. That's not been a problem for me in a long while. After a few deep breaths and more fabric fondling, I did end up buying a Moda layer cake of Boutique by Chez Moi

And 3 yards of a yummy cream solid fabric for a background to go with the layer cake. I also picked up some applique pins by Clover.

Now as to what I might do with all this - I am thinking about applique. I left the shop happy with the purchases I made and that I was also supporting a local area shop (those are getting few and far between now with the economy the way it is).

After work I am going to place the fabrics on the coffee table in hopes to coax my mojo out of hiding. Wish me luck!!

Where's my mojo?

2010-01-14T15:45:00.001-06:00

I seem to have lost my sewing mojo. I have looked in the obvious places - the sewing room, the scrap basket, and my bag of yarns, but no. I looked in laundry room, under the bed and even in the dishwasher - I can't find it anywhere. I guess I am going to have to put out a reward. In the mean time maybe if I go fabric shopping it might entice my mojo to come back!

Only Once in a Blue Moon

2009-12-31T20:54:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!!!

If you get a chance take a look at the moon tonight - it's what they call a 'Blue Moon'- which means it's the second full moon of the month (usually there is only one full moon a month). This won't happen on New Years Eve again until 2028. Pretty cool - huh?!?!

(picture from my back yard)

Tomorrow a new day a new year!! I am ready are you?
See ya next year ;0)

Happy Whatever-you-celebrate-even-if-it's-nothing-at-all

2009-12-23T11:52:00.002-06:00

What ever you may celebrate this holiday - I hope everyone has a wonderful love filled holiday! And if you don't celebrate anything, here's wishing you a happiness filled day!

Recipe for Christmas All Year Long

Take a heap of child-like wonder

That opens up our eyes

To the unexpected gifts in life—

Each day a sweet surprise.

Mix in fond appreciation

For the people whom we know;

Like festive Christmas candles,

Each one has a special glow.

Add some giggles and some laughter,

A dash of Christmas food,

(Amazing how a piece of pie

Improves our attitude!)

Stir it all with human kindness;

Wrap it up in love and peace,

Decorate with optimism, and

Our joy will never cease.

If we use this healthy recipe,

We know we will remember

To be in the Christmas spirit,

Even when it's not December.

Ooooooh, a Izzy and Ivy Giveaway!!!

2009-12-14T12:38:00.000-06:00

Izzy and Ivy Designs is hosting a giveaway!!!

If you have never had the pleasure of visiting them - well you realy must! They have the cutest and delightful patterns for children's clothing and handbags ever.

And these are just a few of thier awsome patterns.

Pop over to visit Izzy and Ivy and register to win - they are giving away 4 BIG PRIZES!!!

One lucky winner will win Penelope Ruffles - and ruffles are so in fashion right now!!

Quick, where's that paper bag.....

2009-12-10T19:47:00.001-06:00

breathe slowly, relax, it's ok, breathe slowly, relax, it's ok

What? How Much? No! That Can Not Be! Oh My Goodness! No, There Is No Way I Could Have Spent That Much?!?!

Ooooh, yes that was me right after shopping for Christmas presents tonight. All the happiness, joyful giddyness, and excitement I felt while shopping is gone and now my heart is in my stomach and I am having a panic attach!

Pick up phone NOW!!! and call friend, get ressurance..................

Ok, now everything is ok. I just have a hard time spending anything over 2 digits. Silly - yes. Practical - yes! BUT it's only money right????? Oh my gosh am I getting frugal - hmmmmm maybe, ok YES!

Playin' and Dreamin'

2009-12-10T16:12:00.001-06:00

I found Arrange-a-Room on the Better Homes and Gardens web site. I know I should be working, cause I am at work ya-know. But just could not help it, it's addicting, and everyone deserves a break once in a while - right?

This is my sewing room, lovely with a large table, ironing station (the rainbow), bulletin board, my ductape double (the circle in the bottom left corner) filing cabinet, hutch with fabrics, and two small book cases.

ahem........

'IF' I removed the 4 large rubber maid boxes filed with fabric, piles of fabric on the floor, the sewing machine and serger on the large table, and piles of patterns and sewing magazines on the sewing table it might, just might look like this.

sigh.......

Walt Disney once said "If you can dream it, you can do it." :-\ hmmmmm - I don't think he was talking to us sewers/quilters/textile artist types?

what do you think?

Well it's alright to be little bitty.......

2009-12-01T20:22:00.003-06:00

Little Bitty Bag

This is a great gift idea and a way to use up those fabric scraps. I filled them with girly goodies and will be giving them as holiday gift - cosmetic bags. It finishes up at 4.5" high, 7" wide, and 1" deep at the bottom

For this sassy little bag you will need a sewing machine (with zigzag feature), a zipper foot, 9 inch zipper, basic sewing supplies, a piece of thin cardboard to create a template (I used a empty cereal box), an iron and a serger is optional .

I would rate this as an easy project - but the zipper on a slight curve could be a challenge, if you have never sewn a zipper before please practice on scraps. In the pictures you will see different base fabrics, I was doing assembly line sewing and made 12 bags instead of just one.

For the base I used cotton duck/cotton canvas from JoAnn's, but you could use denim (great recycling idea). You need a somewhat sturdy fabric for the base, the base will become the inside of the bag and where the fabric strips are sewn. Here you can see I found cotton duck in bright orange, cream and green. Cut a 9.5 " by 13" rectangle from your base fabric.
*TIP: use a light to medium colored fabric, this makes it easier to see what your storing inside.

For the outside of the little bitty bag I used 12 - 1.5 inch strips of fabric for one bag. You can use fat quarters cut into strips or scraps sewn together to make the strips. I used the large floral fabric as my color palett to help choose more fabrics from my stash. I used 10 different fat quarters, but it would look just as good if using only 3 different fat quarters.

Little Bitty Bag Pattern

The above link should open as aPDF and print in the correct size - but check the size everyone's printers are different!! Use the dotted line at the bottom and trace this twice on your cardboard making a pattern with two tops (one up and one down) and the bottom in the middle. (scroll down some to see my cardboard template) Save your template to use later.

Using a long ruler draw a line from one corner to the other. **If using cotton duck or canvas there is no wrong or right side for your base fabric, but if using a base fabric with a wrong and right side you will draw the line on the wrong side of the fabric (do not worry about seeing the line, you will be covering the line with the fabric strips and this will become the outside of the bag). Then draw a second line 1/4" away from the line you just drew. The second line is the guide to line up your fabrics and begin sewing.

Line up two strips of fabric right sides together, place on the base fabric with the raw edge of the fabric on the second line (or the 1/4" from center line). This will make the actual seam line go from corner to corner.

Sew using a 1/4" seam allowance. Press open, next line up another strip right sides together and with raw edges together sew 1/4" seam. Then do the same on the opposite side.

Continue adding strips to cover the base fabric (if you look closely you will see I have two corners not covered, but I checked with my template I then trimed the corners off).

Using the template trace the outline on the base fabric (do not worry about the lines being seen as they are in the seam allowances). This outline includes your seam allowances and will be the line to which you cut out the pattern.

Finishing the edge stops the fabrics from fraying. I used my serger to finish off the edges and cut them at the same time, by lining up the outline with the cutting blade and using a 3-thread overlock stitch narrowed to 1/4".

***If you do not have a serger - no worries!! Cut the pattern out on the line you drew using the template and then zigzag the edge and your ready to go to the next step.

The zipper goes on the curved edge of the fabric. Place the zipper right side down on the right side of the outside, line up the edges together and pin in place. *Tip: line up the bottom zipper stop to the raw/finished edge of the fabric (see below). Use a zipper foot and sew on the zipper. *Tip: when half way through stop with needle in the down position raise the presser foot and move the zipper to the out of the way, as the zipper pull can be bulky and hard to sew around. (in the photo above I started sewing from the bottom of the zipper and then half way I move the zipper to the bottom)

After sewing one side of the zipper, you need to see where to line up the next side. To do this fold over the zipper and note where to zipper stop is, use this as a reference to line up the next side of the zipper. Fold the fabric in half with the outside/strip-ie sides together. Pin the zipper with the zipper edge and raw/finished edges together again noting where the zipper stops are. Sew just as before, and also use the tip to move the zipper pull again if needed (I did).

Unzip the half-way finished bag and turn rightside out, then slowly/carefuly zip the bag closed. Finger press and use an iron to press the curved edge with the zipper.

You should have something that looks like this - your almost done - YEA!!

Now top stitch the fabric on the outside, not only does this make it pretty it stitches down the zipper and keeps it out of the way. This can be tricky but go slowly and start from the top of the zipper and work to the bottom of the zipper using the zipper foot. I used a thread color to match the zipper but that's up to you.

Turn the bag inside out and leave halfway unzipped. *Tip: do not leave zipper closed, this causes a problem when you want to open it and the zipper is sewn closed - ask me how I know. Starting at the bottom of the bag (folded edge) sew up the sides, making sure to put the finished edge/zigzaged edge in the seam allowance, stop just on the zipper tape (do not go all the way off the edge) back-stitch to lock your stitches. Then trim the corners as shown above (see my finger ;0) this will remove the bulk from the corners when you turn them.

To create the bottom of the bag fold the side of the bag down with seam allowances open and line up the side seam to the center bottom (is that clear as mud?). See picture above, the bottom of the bag is on the bed of the sewing machine the side is facing up in my fingers and the zipper is wide open and to the left. (I may need to add more pictures to explain this) Stitch the little corner, back stitching at the start and finish. *Tip: Now if you don't want to make the bottom this way - well then don't it's ok and your finished!

Turn the little bitty bag rightside out, finger press to make nice and neat.

You now have a Little Bitty Bag to give someone a little bitty smile :0)

and for fun.................

I am Thankful...

2009-11-26T05:03:00.000-06:00

my son
my husband
my family
to give love and recieving love
memories
the past
the present
the future
my brothers, I will meet you in heaven
my parents
being human & knowing everything is not perfect
kisses
fur-babies
emotions, even though they may get me in trouble
deviled eggs
hot apple cider
my mother-in-law's pumpkin roll
a good book
our military
being a Florida native
the conversations I had with my dad
Sunday NFL games
filet migion
bubble baths
sunflowers
'Nova' and Carl Sagan
that I have a job
the cool side of the pillow
Belgian waffles
a second chance
stores that are open 24 hours
toothpaste
a day at the beach
blogger
my DVR
good movies
pizza delivery
hiking trails
good hair days
hobbies
suprises
3 years in Italy
didgital camera
sunshine
happy tears
diet Dr. Pepper
spring showers
butterflies
my car
being a parent
organ donors
full moons
democracy
a home cooked meal
great in-laws
spell check
red wine
hugs
good teachers
super glue
polite drivers
sunsets
whipped cream
true friends
margritas
hot showers
hair dye
toilet paper
nail polish
fresh air
fuzzy slippers
grandparents
fresh bread
Dr. Seuss books
a home with walls, a ceiling and a floor
my sewing machine
pumpkin ravioli
the words 'I love you'
avocados
deep conditioner
blood donations
cup cakes
a good joke
the internet
bacon
tweezers
German beer
sneakers
post-it notes
weekends
good music
July 5th 1993
the smell of coffee
blue jeans
indoor plumbing
chocolate
silk pajamas
porch swings
good conversation
puppy kisses

We sometimes loose the meaning of the holidays with all the commercialism and shiny wrapping paper. True gifts come from the heart not the wallet and this was a lesson for me to notice all the things in my life and be grateful for the big and the small. By no means are these all the things I am thankful for, nor are they necessarily in the correct order. To all a Happy and Thankful Day!!!!

Thank You!!
Kira

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Seven

2009-11-25T19:48:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for happy tears, sunshine, digital cameras, 3 years in Italy, suprises, my hobbies, good hair days, hiking trails, pizza delivery, good movies, my DVR, blogger, a day at the beach, toothpaste, open 24 hrs stores, a second chance, Belgian waffles, the cool side of the pillow, that I have a job, 'Nova & Carl Sagan, sunflowers, bubble baths, filet miginon, Sunday NFL games, converstions with my dad, being a Florida native, and our military.

I can't just stop here at # 82, I have to continue to 100.........

more tomorrow.

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Six

2009-11-24T16:36:00.002-06:00

I am thankful for vacations, spell check, red wine, full moons, democracy, a homecooked meal, my car, being a parent, organ donors, butterflies, spring showers, my great in-laws, and diet Dr Pepper

Take a moment and be thankful.

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Five

2009-11-23T17:00:00.005-06:00

I am thankful for true friends, magaritas, hot showers, polite drivers, sunsets, whipped cream, hug, good teachers and super glue.

Take a moment and be thankful.

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Four

2009-11-22T19:35:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for hair dye, toilet paper, nail polish, fresh air, fuzzy slippers, grandparents, fresh bread, Dr. Seuss books, and a home with walls, a ceiling and a floor.

Take a moment to be thankful.

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Three

2009-11-21T17:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for quiet mornings, a warm blanket, peppermint tea, my sewing machine, pumpkin ravioli and the words 'I love you'.

Take a moment and be thankful

7 Days of Thankfulness Day Two

2009-11-20T17:00:00.002-06:00

I am thankful for cup cakes, a good joke, the internet, bacon, tweezers, German beer, sneakers, post-it notes, weekends, good music and July 5th 1993.

Take a moment and be thankful

7 Days of Thankfulness Day One

2009-11-19T09:12:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for the smell of coffee, blue jeans, indoor plumbing, chocolate, silk pajamas, porch swings, good conversation and puppy kisses.

Take a moment and be thankful

Holiday Ideas from Fabric.com and Hot Patterns

2009-11-14T12:54:00.001-06:00

Hot Patterns and Fabric.com have gotten together again with more free downloads. Some of you may have already seen these as a few have been out for a while. I can see all of these as great gifts for the coming holidays!!

Sumatra Mini-Shopper

Shining Star Waistcoat

Slinky Shrug

Cool, Calm & Cowl-necked Top

Nomad Bag

Ok, I am so behind lately and I know the blog is suffering - so sorry everyone. I am working on getting a few tutorials together for easy holiday gifts and that has put the purple purse on the back burner for a while. But we can always use new toots - Right?!?!?

(if I could get rid of this "Read More" link - anyone know how???)

Veterans Day

2009-11-11T08:12:00.001-06:00

Always remember

Count Down to Christmas

2009-11-04T17:46:00.018-06:00

I know - no one wants to hear it but we need to start thinking about Christmas. It's not to far away, and it's just far enough to get lazy and wait. Last year I made cute small gifts for friends and coworkers. We all can understand that with money tight this year we can't just go out and buy everyone we know something, so a small hand made item is just the right solution.

The internet is a great place to find helpful tutorials from so many lovely people!!

Lola Again' Pot Holder/Trivet

Don't Look Now's Flower Garden Pillow

Skip to My Lou Pocket Tissue Cover

Just a start............
more to come

Halloween Fun

2009-10-31T22:00:00.000-05:00

We had a great time and Evan's party was a blast!!

Happy Halloween!!!

Gearing up for halloween

2009-10-30T17:20:00.000-05:00

We are gearing up for tomorrow - Halloween!!!

Clyde showed up to help out, and he brought fresh pumpkins for a-karvin'.

More pics soon!!

Is Everyone Else Getting Ready for Halloween??

2009-10-26T18:18:00.001-05:00

Are you or your family having a fun time getting ready of Halloween? My family is, and even though I haven't been able to participate as much they are.

My husband has been working diligently in the garage making mischievous Halloween props. Don't ask me, cause I am way to scared to step into the garage to take a peek. You never know what lurks in there during this time of the year.

(you have to visit this site!!!) Photo from Penwiper

My son has been busy creating realistic armor for his costume. The internet is a wonderful thing, he found Penwiper that has great tutorial for armor made from craft foam. Absolutely amazing!!!!!

I have been asked to make a 'Tabard', never knew what a tabard was untill now. So until I finish this, my purse will have to wait. (but I need so badly to finish it, it is fall now and I NEED MY FALL PURSE ;0)

Purple Purse Part 2 Testing

2009-10-22T19:12:00.000-05:00

If you've been keeping up with what's going on here you have seen Purple Purse Part 1 .

So far I have decided I want a deep purple or as some say a aubergine in a suede like or velvet fabric. I located a pretty aubergine at JoAnn's. It's a knit with VERY little stretch, but to combat this for my test run I fused woven stabilizer to the back of the pieces. I cut out over sized pieces of woven stabilizer for each pattern piece (starting with just the two front and back pieces. Fused this to the fabric and then cut out the pattern pieces (only the two front and back outsides at this point).

Stitched the two front bottoms together, then lightly pressed (did not want to lose the faux suede look of the Alova fabric) the seam open.

Then I top stitched the center seam allowance. In the photo you can see the white of the woven stabilizer and the deep purple fabric.

This photo is upsidedown, but you can see the pressed open seam allowance and the pleat markings. I marked the pleats, then noticed that the pleats could be placed differently. So I remarked them and pin folded the pleats to test.

Here I show how I sewed the pleats. Starting from the folded edge (closest to my finger) I back stitched and had the machine in the needle down position. Sewing the pleat in a reversed 'L' back stitching at the beginning and the stress point (at the corner, after turning the fabric to start the long end or the reversed 'L') and again at the end of the fabric edge.

Here you can see the end result of the pleats, although the picture is bad (as I had to lighten it a lot so that the photo would show the pleats).

Next to sew the top piece to the bottom pieces to complete the front and back. (wish me luck!)

It's Been one of those Days.............

2009-10-12T12:49:00.002-05:00

Actually it’s been a couple of those weeks to say the least!! I have not stepped into the sewing room once. At the office we are working on a deadline, and that always makes me exhausted at the end of the day. With Halloween coming my family has been creating fun Halloween decorations, although I have yet to join them I do feel bad I haven’t had the time to help. Pattern Review is having a contest for 'The Little Black Dress' and I oh so need to do this one - BUT can't seem to find the time. Hotpatterns and Fabric.com have gotten together and posted a free Cowl Neck Top. The top looks great and easy to do - oh and did you see Hotpatterns new Classix Nouveau Pyramid Bag, lovely!!!! Got to finish drafting my purple pleated purse and I keep wondering when when......

Eveyone feels like this once in a while right???

Purple Purse Part 1 Drafting

2009-09-27T11:58:00.000-05:00

It all starts with an idea, then comes the pencil and paper. I want a very feminine deep purple purse in either faux suede or velvet. I pulled out some graph paper and started on a very primitive outline. I want softness both in fabric and design details. Soft pleats or gathers will evoke a feminine feeling and softness.

Next I made a cleaner line drawing showing the details I want to incorporate, topstitching and the placement of the pleats (as you see in the picture above).

I use Pattern Ease for tracing and drafting patterns. First I trace the purse front at actual size (no seam allowances that comes later). In the above picture you see the purse front including the top band.

I then trace the front again without the top band and add seam alowances. Then trace the top band and add seam allowances also. I used a seam allowance of 1/2 inch. This will be the top band for the inside and outside, I will cut 4 of the top band from the out side fabric. The bottom front is traced and 1/2 inch seam allowance added and then becomes the inside lining pattern, from this I will cut two from the lining fabric. Later I will show how I drafted the inside pockets.

I retrace half of the bottom front without seam allowances these will be added after I add the pleats. Using the front bottom I marked where I wanted the pleats. Starting 1 inch from the center front I added the first pleat marking and 1 inch out another and so on until I had 4 pleats marked. Then cut and spread to add the extra fabric to create the pleat. Each pleat uses 3/4 inch of fabric and by taping to a piece of scrap Pattern Ease it helps to keep everything even. I then retraced the outside front bottom pattern piece and added 1/2 seam allowance as before.

Now to find some fabric.

Ischia Necklace

2009-09-26T17:51:00.003-05:00

In the summer of 2001 we vacationed in the Naples area, having the pleasure of living in Northern Italy at the time it was affordable for us to drive to the region of Campania. We visited Naples, Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and Paestum. We had wanted to visit the Isle of Capri, and tour the famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), but were told the sea was angry and there was no way we could go. So we decided to tour the island Ischia off the north coast of Naples, the biggest of the three islands in the gulf of Naples.

I was a fun time!! While walking through the piazza we were approached by a man selling coral necklaces. It was a dainty strand of what looked like seed beads. We of course said "no, thank you", but he continued telling us how it was real and the best. He even bit the beads and broke one off, saying "real, real". All I could think of was how odd of a way to ruin your teeth. He kept at us as most street vendors do, but then being in the good mood we were my dear husband bought the neacklace for me. Now mind you we knew it could not have been real, but felt it was a fun souvenir. I still have that necklace and when I wear it I always remember the beautiful island of Ischia.

Just this week I was reminiscing about the beautiful island, and all the fun we had. When I came across a question someone posted at Fabsugar on the coral choker necklace Giada de Laurentiss was wearing in a photo.

'La Bella Figura'

Italian women have a elegant style about them and take pride in the way they are dressed. Giada is definitely a very stylish Italian woman! I got to thinking that I could use a coral choker in my wardrobe arsenal and off to AC Moore I went.

I purchased seed beads, faux coral nuggets, random faux coral shaped beads, gold bead caps, small gold beads, gold lobster claw clasp, jump rings, .038mm nylon coated beading wire, #1 crimp beads, brass 20 gauge wire, and crimping pliers (you know, just like the guys - we gotta get the right tools for the right job!).

I made 5 stands of beads, two strands of just seed beads, one of seed beads and gold beads, one of seed beads and nuggets, and one of seed beads and the random shaped beads. Then loosely braided them before adding the bead caps. So what ya think?? Ya want a toot??

Ciao bella!

The Versatile Denim Skirt Part 3

2009-09-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's all finished. The Burda WOF 03/2002 #108.

The basic denim skirt with front fly zipper, scoop pockets, an top stitching details. A back yoke, patch pockets, and kick pleat. Very easy to sew, with the exception of the fly front. Not a beginner pattern, but not advanced at all (I used Debbie Cook's toot on fly front zippers). Thanks again Debbie!!

All the seams were sewn using cotton covered poly thread in navy with a denim needle and the seam allowances were finished on the serger with a three thread flatlock stitch. Sewing denim can be a challenge, and it was for me this time as I used YLI Jeans stitch thread and a topstitching needle for all the top stitching. Well, a top stitching needle will not go through more than 3 layers of denim at one time. It was a sight to see me trying to sew the top stitching, and if you were in ear shot - well not very lady like noises were coming from the sewing room. YLI Jean Stitch thread is much thicker thread than say Coats and Clarks top stitching thread and it would not fit through the jeans needles so I had to use a top stitching needle for the YLI Jeans thread. I not a big fan of Coats and Clarks threads - but next time I will be using thier top stitching thread for denim!

Here's a close up on the design I digitized for the back pocket. It's really a basic continuous quilting design. This was stitched with the YLI Jeans stitch thread also but only through one thickness of denim. I embroidered on the denim and then cut out the pocket and sewed it onto the skirt back.

Now to have some quiet fun and a margarita.......................

The Versatile Denim Skirt Part 2

2009-09-13T08:00:00.006-05:00

I searched for a jean style skirt pattern in my pattern stash and found a skirt pattern from Burda WOF 3/2002.

From the cover you can see my issue is in Dutch, I purchased this while living in the Netherlands. Dutch is a hard language to learn, at least for me. I learned just enough to get by, but they also speak English there to so that helped a lot. This pattern is the sewing course for this issue and it shows step by step line drawings of how to assemble the skirt - a plus!

Pattern #108 is a cute jeans style skirt with back patch pockets, front fly zipper and scoop front pockets. They added a kick pleat to the front.

From the line drawing you can see the back yoke, waist band and belt carriers. I moved the kick pleat to back for my skirt but pretty much kept the design the same.

So far I have the back yoke sewed on and topstitched, two back pieces together also topstitched and the pockets on.

I have the front fly zipper in and the front pockets complete. Next I have to sew the front to the back and add the waist band and hem it.

Charity

2009-09-07T07:00:00.007-05:00

If you look 'Charity' up in the dictionary you will see :

1. generous actions or donations to aid the poor, ill, or helpless: to devote one's life to charity.
2. something given to a person or persons in need; alms: She asked for work, not charity.
3. a charitable act or work.
4. a charitable fund, foundation, or institution: He left his estate to a charity.
5. benevolent feeling, esp. toward those in need or in disfavor: She looked so poor that we fed her out of charity.
6. leniency in judging others; forbearance: She was inclined to view our selfish behavior with charity.
7. Christian love; agape............................

Being a person who's life has been affected by a disease, the disease Muscular Dystrophy (Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) I look at life so different than most people. My brother's lives were taken by MD, I saw the struggles they made everyday. Their love and vigor for life, knowing the out come, knowing how they were cheated of the real life they could have had. Fate is a fickle lady and from her I learned to love every minute I have and cherish every moment of the loved ones I have in my life.

I am not saying that you need to send money or sacrifice, but to notice the small things in your life and love the ones around you!! As someone once said "Life - it's not a dress rehearsal".

BUT - if you can, please help to save others by donating to the MDA Telethon!! God willing one day there will be no such thing as Muscular Dystrothy!!!

Proud that my brothers are Jerry's Kids!! Love you - Derek, Jeff, and Rand!!!!!!!!!! Gods angels, they are waiting for me......................

The Versatile Denim Skirt

2009-08-31T09:42:00.024-05:00

Most women admit jeans are their favorite items of clothing! So, when it comes to skirts - a denim fabric can be quite helpful and versatile. The denim skirt is one of those pieces that every woman should have in her wardrobe. Its versatility knows no bounds, especially if you avoid trendy colors, and stick with a classic, pencil-style skirt. A dark washed denim skirt can be paired with heels, a button down, a nice jacket and scarf for a business casual look. The same skirt can then be worn with a silk blouse and kitten heels to dinner or other semi-casual events. For a laid back weekend look pair it with a t-shirt and flat gladiator sandals, or a cute polo and ballet flats. Just remember, unless you’re going for the grunge look denim should never be torn or frayed.

Hotpattern's Metropolitan Superfly Skirt is a modern denim/jean skirt pattern. Slight A-line with narrow darts in the front and back and a front fly. Optional belt carriers. With this pattern you could play with embroidery on the back pockets.

McCall's timeless classic pencil skirt is a great beginner pattern, with darts and a back zipper. So many lengths to choose you can't go wrong and once you get this one tailored to fit you will sew it over and over again.

Butterick's pencil skirt has great seam lines on view 'A' and view 'C' has cute ruffles on each side. View 'A' is good pattern to show off top stitching and vertical lines are always very slimming!! For view 'C' use a light weight denim the ruffles will not hang well in a heavy fabric. The ruffles are just enough flirtyness, keep the top stitching thread in same shade as the fabric.

Another skirt where top stitching makes all the difference. The back vent on this McCall's skirt has unusual detailing - worthy of a second glance.

Now that high waisted skirts are in style, this Vogue with its button details is in the fall fashion forecast. But stay away from views 'A' and 'C' as the gathered sides might not be flattering in a denim fabric with the exception - if you have very narrow hips then try it in a light weight denim.

Stay with good quality denim, in a deep rich color - no faded pale blue or pastels. Use strong colors in top stitching thread either in traditional jeans top stitching deep gold, crisp white, or same shade to blend in. Pay attention to how the fabric drapes and the style of skirt you want to sew. Keep it simple don't over do it, pick one detail to stand out and you will end up with a skirt that will be worn again and again.

Got Me Some Shoes!

2009-08-23T18:24:00.002-05:00

It has been a time for getting ready for school and I remember the days (oh, so long ago) when every year in the month of August every school age child was either excited or depressed about shopping for school clothes. I love shopping and love shopping for clothes and shoes!!

While out shopping for school stuffs for my son, I had to hit the shoe department. I found two pairs I could not resist. Both are flats, very comfy and great for this fall. And who can pass up a good sale?

These red beauties are 'Bolero' by Michelle d. Cute, sweet, and delicious red mary jane flats, so innocent but the color is so sinful. Just the pop of red for some dark jeans - I have the perfect Burda pattern waiting in my design stash and need to find the perfect fabric for them.

If you haven't noticed I am smitten with greens for this coming fall, and these perky driving loafers have me giddy. This pair is a great transition shoe for summer into fall, 'Tabbie' by Antonio Melani, has all the loafer goodness going on. Great avocado green and the chunky gold buckle are sooo rich! I could just see myself driving my convertable Jaguar through the French riviera wearing these lovelies....... oops there I go day dreamin again.

What to Do With That Old Feather Pillow

2009-08-16T18:57:00.012-05:00

If you missed the start - In my adventures with the old feather pillow see the beginning 'what is pillow ticking', when I did not know where to start. Well, I found a way to reuse to help my family and save some space in the worldwide garbage pile.....

I made a dog pillow, and I must say my baby Julies (she is my sweetie from Italy - I am silly about my dogs) she really liked it after it was done!! I just had to give her some special attention, after she is being so patient with our new baby Ripley.

Here's how we started:

I found home decor fabrics in cheery lime green, orange and peach and that pretty yellow and white pillow ticking, a zipper bright orange and thread.

Created the pillow itself by sewing a pillow form out of pillow ticking. Then stuffed it with the feather pillow filling and a little bit of polyester stuffing I had from a previous project.

I made piping out of a light green, put the zipper on the long side and sewed up a cute pillow my fur baby loves (and the other fur babies).

What is Pillow Ticking?

2009-07-29T12:57:00.009-05:00

After updating our master bedroom and replacing all the bedding, including pillows. I thought that throwing away two king size feather pillows would be a shame and possibly I could reuse them in some way (trying to be a little green). But the pillows had a problem with the feathers coming out through the cover. The pillows had a cleaning label that stated I could wash them. So I washed the pillows in hot water and soap, laid them outside in the sunshine to dry and flipped/fluffed them every 30 minutes until they were completely dry.

This is where I had to figure out how and for what I could reuse them. First I needed to figure a way to stop the feathers from coming out and then what could I make with these feathers. This is what brought me to the question "So what is pillow ticking?"

Pillow ticking is a somewhat stiff tightly woven cotton fabric and this tight weave makes it hard for the feathers to work their way through (sometimes you can find a cotton blend). Usually ticking fabric is off-white or white and striped in blue or red, also you can find it with a floral print and/or stripes. I went to my local JoAnn's and they had a few bolts of 'Pillow Ticking' and the best way to test the tightness of the weave is to hold the fabric up to the light, and if you can see light through the weave it's not a good quality.

I found a pretty white with yellow floral striped ticking.

Now the next question: Ways to Reuse Feather Pillows?

New Family Member

2009-07-26T12:44:00.003-05:00

Introducing Ripley the Wonder Dog!!

She is a 5 1/2 week old Piebald Dachshund. She came to us all the way from Virgina. She is cute and spunky. We named her after the movie character Lt. Ellen Ripley from Alien. Yes, we are crazy - the guys would not let me namer her Tallulah (after Tallulah Bankhead the actress from the 30's and 40's) and I didn't like the names they were coming up with. One night we were sitting down relaxing in front of the tv and one of my favorite movies came on - Alien. We all agreed and she did to!

Pretty Eggs and Mockingbirds

2009-07-16T18:57:00.008-05:00

When trimming the trees in winter we found an empty nest. Falling apart and all most gone, we decided to leave it and see if the birds that built it would return. And at the end of June I peeked in the new growth on the Crape Myrtle and spotted these beautiful eggs. Not really knowing what type of bird they were, we waited to see if the babies would survive.

Three of them did - look at those sweet faces. It was a sight to see me getting a photo of them, as the mother or father was not at all happy to have me visit them. She/he attacked me as I took this photo. I told her that I promised not to hurt her sweet babies, but she kept at me.

Come to find out these cuties are Mockingbirds. Also Mockingbirds just happen to be Florida's State Bird, and we happen to reside in Northern Florida.