KellysSewing.... when she is not running

New Look 6082, slim ankle length pants muslin

2012-02-11T10:12:00.000-08:00

Ok, so here is my muslin of slim fit, ankle length pants. Not sure if they qualify as cigarette pants, as I am not totally sure how cigarrette pants are defined.

I traced out New Look 6082 on to tracing paper. I then pin fitted the pieces together and tried one leg on. I could tell right away that there was going to be a crotch issue. Namely, a camel toe and butt wedgie. After some research, I went with a fix I read about on Fashion Incubator. http://www.fashion-incubator.com/?s=camel+toe. She has some very useful information and also a very entertaining read. I started out with her idea that a camel toe in front is caused by too straight of a front crotch curve, which results in too short of curve. I removed 1/2" on the vertical portion to nothing at the inner leg. I did the same for the back, as a butt wedgie is caused by same issue. I added the 1/2" that I removed front and back, to both front and back sides. I cut out my muslin with my newly altered pattern pieces and I basted them together and the camel toe, butt wedgie were gone, but oh my, there was quite an excess of fabric on either side my front crotch and between my legs. I took them off and stared at them for awhile..... then I thought perhaps that if I removed some of the inner leg from front and back that it might help. So I basted out another 3/8" off of the inner thighs, front and back, tapering to nothing after about 6". This cured it!! So all in all, I ended up taking out 1/2" along the vertical crotch front and back and up to 7/8" toward the bottom of the curves. I also lowered the center front waist by 1/2". Below is what my size 16 tracing with my alterations looks like compared to the orignal pattern underneath.

front

back

Front, not wrinkle free, but then, what pants are? I was not going for painted on look.

Side view, you can see lapped zipper....and also that I put the hem slits on the inner leg instead of outer.... oops. I mean, design feature.

Back view, not too tight and no butt wedgie. I am quite happy with them. And they are comfortable sitting as well, very important, as I sit all day at work. So now....... the grey denim.....

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!!

Best Laid Plans

2012-02-10T16:27:00.000-08:00

I traced out and cut out my muslin for B5712. Then came work, school, a funeral, more school, laundry and somehow, I lost interest in that cute little jacket.

Might have been the vintage A-line wool skirt I bought at a second hand store while out of town for the funeral. I just thought it was adorable, I envisioned it as a pencil skirt with my brown boots.... and it was only $6!

The old zipper and vintage button were still in fine working condition.

It was fully block fused with a wonderful knit interfacing

I picked apart the side seams and zipper and just cut off waistband, there would be no re-using that! My waste is not vinage sized. I used my Mcall's 5590 pattern to lay over the pieces to confirm that they were still big enough to contain me and for marking how much of the sides to remove for a nice pencil shape. Cut off about 4"-5" of the top, that means my waist size must be about the hip size of the original owner!

I then pinned it on me.....

and DH took pictures ...... and yes, those are Christmas ornaments on the floor. We JUST took down the tree. DON'T JUDGE ME. This was the first Christmas that all of my kids could not come home, somehow, I just needed to leave the tree up. Hubby gently suggested on FEBRUARY 5th, that maybe we could take it down together.....I love that man.

Back to the skirt, looking good, reserved the original hem.

Had a side lapped zip, so I left the back in one piece. The orginal sewer did a fine job matching up the patterns on the back.

And here it is! I love my new old skirt! Not sure why my green top looks black in this picture....... and yes, that is soot all around the wood stove. AGAIN, DON'T JUDGE ME. It is cold where we live and my DH keeps that baby burning non stop. Dangerous vacuuming up hot soot and ashes. ((-:

Now...... I bought some nice ash grey denim..... think I want to make some cigarette pants...... only mine will be ankle or longer length.... does that disqualify them from being cigarette pants?

The Butterick 5712 is sitting on the sidelines, patiently waiting.... I think it is curious about these cigarette pants too..

Stay Happy , Keep Sewing!

Butterick 5712

2012-01-30T15:24:00.000-08:00

Something about this little jacket pattern intrigues me.

It is not be the awful photos, so it must be the line drawings. View B.

The sleeves are cut on the jacket front and back. The sides begin at lower hem and continues up to underarm and then down the arm to sleeve hem. And there are cute little hidden inseam pockets on the front. I searched and no luck, no one has reviewed it, so I must be the ~~guinnea pig~~, pioneer. Last night I traced it with pattern tracing paper and then pin fit it together and tried it on. I was just sure that there was no way it would work, but it seems that it might. So the intrigue deepens..... I have cut out a muslin..... so we shall see if my curiosity got the best of me or led me to something orniginal!

Stay Happy! Keep Sewing!

Round 2 and it's a knockout!

2012-01-29T06:48:00.000-08:00

I finished my second Jalie 3130. I am very happy with this pattern. I usually only buy patterns when they are on sale, so I had high hopes for this pattern, as it is a bit more $ than normal sale pattern! This time around, instead of retracing for a smaller size up front, I tried removing a 1/4" on each front side, I think it now fits me a bit better in the upper chest. I still ended up using 5/8" side seams. The shirt fits KG2 a bit tighter in the bust than I, as she is over 10 years old and her breasts have not .....migrated south at all, whereas mine.... a bit.

My fabric is a cotton poly blend from JoAnns. Feels really nice against the skin, sews up very well, but snags somewhat easily, unfortunately. I, again, used the tutorial on collars with stands from GigiSews found on this tutorial website, http://sewingtutorials.blogspot.com/2008/05/topstees.html, This site has some awesome tutorials. First you attach the inner stand to the shirt, then attach finished collar to the inner stand. Then the outer stand to the inner stand, just sewing around the ends and collar edge. Then you turn the whole thing right side out and finish the outer stand lower edge. You end up with such a nice finish, both inside and outside.

Check out the site, she explains it so much better and her pictures help where words can not.
Now, on to the sleeves, which are inserted flat. These sleeves go in without a pucker in site. Perfect. I added a 1 1/2" to the depth of the cuff, to allow a bit deeper of a roll up.

I highly recommend this pattern for anyone who loves a nice button up shirt.

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!

Round 2

2012-01-28T04:10:00.000-08:00

My second Jalie 3130 is on the cutting board this morning. Made a few slight tweaks to the pattern......more later!

Jalie 3130

2012-01-21T15:35:00.000-08:00

I finished the Jalie 3130. I must say, this is a very nice shirt pattern. I think the pocket sizing and collar sizing are perfect, just like RTW. Sometimes the Big 4 have collars and pockets that are out of scale to the shirt front and they can scream home made.

This pic is a bit blury, but I was trying to show the pockets, hard to see on this busy print. The fabric is a cotton blend from the Lisette collection at JoAnns. It is beautiful. No wrinkles, right out of the dryer and presses very well. I cut the size Y as it most closely matched my measurements, but I ended up taking it in 5/8" more from the elbow seam to the waist. The sleeves are same front to back and are inserted flat. Was a dream to ease in. No puckers.

I tried a new tutorial on the collar, it was from GigiSews, http://behindtheseams.wordpress.com/2006/05/24/collar-on-stand-part-1/. It was a little hard to comprehend what I was doing at first, but if you also follow the pictures, it works out just like she says it will! Beautiful collar!

The sleeves have a cuff on the bottom, which is folded while attaching so that the right side of the fabric is also on the inside of the sleeve, so when you roll them up, you don't see the wrong side of the fabric. Brilliant!

While there are no princess seams, the front and back darts do pretty well. There is also a yoke on the back which is just slightly curved as attached which also helps with the back shaping.

If you like button up shirts, I highly recommend this pattern.

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!

A weekend to sew.....

2012-01-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

What to do, What to do.... I know, my newest shipment from PR.

Jalie 3130 has arrived..... Fabric is in the dryer........Think I will start tracing while waiting for my fabric to dry.

I love weekends!

Survived

2012-01-19T18:11:00.001-08:00

First week of school down! and all homework done. Yay. That means sewing all weekend!!!!! Thanks for the well wishes!!!

School starts today.....

2012-01-17T04:18:00.000-08:00

For ME! I actually have butterflies. Only been 32 years since I sat in a class room. Wish me luck!

McCall's The Perfect Shirtdress 5847

2012-01-15T18:50:00.000-08:00

To cleanse my sewing pallette of the unsuccessful Colette attempt ( I think it was fabric choice and may try again), I decided to try the Perfect Shirt Dress by Palmer & Pletcsch. McCalls 5847, I love a good fitting shirtdress.

Here is my review.

Pattern Sizing: 14-16, I cut a 16 even though for my measurements 41-34-42, it said to cut a 20. I think they plan on way more ease than I wanted.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, with exception of the sleeve roll up that I talk about later, and the first button placement is WAY lower that what appears in the photos. I placed my first, right between my girls and it was perfect.

Were the instructions easy to follow? They were. Although, I don't care for the way the collar was attached, very hard to get the fold under of the shoulder seam seam allowances just right they way they have you do it.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love a shirt dress. I think with the princess seam shaping, it is flattering on any figures.

Fabric Used: A cotton / poly blend from JoAnns

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added a couple inches in length for view C and it still hits above my knee, for reference I am 5'9".
I did not have enough fabric to cut the front section 4 times ( 2 times for facings) so the facings I cut and pieced fabric together. Since the seam is on the inside and falls at the waist, it is not noticeable. I also used cotton batiste for the interfacing of the entire center front sections and the collar, instead of any fusibles. One oddity on view C, they just have you do a narrow hem at the bottom of the sleeve and then roll it up. So the wrong side of your material would be visible for the sleeve roll. This is not apparent from the photo on the pattern envelope. I did not roll mine at all and just shortened the sleeve tab and used it anyway, as I liked the look.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will, I think a few sleeveless ones for summer......

Conclusion: I love this pattern. It is well drafted and went together very nicely. I traced and fit the pattern to my KG2 (body double) to see where it might need altering. I also compared it to the Butterick 5678 for the princess seam shaping. I had to remove a little of the curve above the bust area, just like with the butterick, my upper bust is just not very busty. (-: That was about all of the altering I had to do. I love all of the topstitching on the princess seams, gives the dress added structure and makes eveything hang very well.

Stay Happy and Keep Sewing!

Decisions

2012-01-14T05:25:00.000-08:00

Do you ever get a fabric or pattern home, that you were once excited enough about - to happily pick all the necessary notions, then once you have it home, you wonder why? Why did I chose this fabric? Or Why did I chose this pattern? I must have some sort of blinders on when I am fabric shopping or forget completely what types of clothing look best on me once the pages of the pattern catalogs begin to fly. I am suffering from that today. Not the fabric part, but more the pattern question. I am making Colette 1018, the Jasmine. I did not buy fabric for it, so I am using some stash fabric that is at least 20 years old to make a muslin. Working on the bias is just not one of my favorite things, and usually results in clinging to body parts I prefer to not emphasize. I am making the sleeves right now, but everytime I try it on, it just seems.......not me. I don't know. I am going to trudge on and hope for the best. Maybe once it is all together, I will change my mind and love it. One can hope, right?

Butterick 5678, my way

2012-01-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

I finished the semi fitted, shirt which I wanted to use as a light jacket. I think it came out very nice.

Here is my review.

Pattern Description: .....Semi fitted shirt with shoulder princess seams. various sleeve, cuff, collar options. I made view B with the pockets / tabs and sleeve / cuffs from view D.

Pattern sizing: EE 14-20, I cut a 14/16

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?...................I was going for a light jacket vs a shirt, so mine looks a little heavier

Were the instructions easy to follow?.......... those that I looked at.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?............ I like the long look and slim effect. I prefer shirts / jackets with princess seams, I feel they are easier to fit than darts and give a more flattering silhouette.

Fabric Used:......... a light weight stretch cordoroy from Fabric.com, in raspberry that has been aging in my stash a few years. I can't remember where I read that you need to either not iron cordoroy or have a special cover to use. I used a big fluffy double folded, non linty towel to cover my ironing board and then used a light touch when steaming my seams. I found this preserved the nap very well.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:........ I like that this pattern has separate front pieces based on cup size. I always trace out my patterns on to tracing paper and then pin them together and fit them on KG2, my duct tape dummy, that way I can get a better idea of how the pattern will fit and can make adjustments to the tissue. I went with my cup size, but ended up having to adjust the above bust area in the princess seam.

I cut a 16 to start but sized down to a 14 beginning at the armscyce and above.

I contemplated putting on eppaluates, but when pinned on, my DH commented that I looked like I belonged in Sargeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

I used Beth from Rusty Bobbin tutorial on a one strip sleeve placket. Was a little challenging with cordoroy, but I did manage and I think they look pretty good. http://rustybobbin.com/blog/?p=342

I used a contrasting fabric for the under collar, inner stand, inner cuffs and under pocket tabs. I really like the look it give the jacket.

I have also found that on collars and cuffs and button plackets, I prefer to use sew in interfacing. I actually use prewashed fabric as the interfacing, either my fashion fabric or a piece of something similar weight. I have had fusible interfacings fail on me too many times after a couple washes. The fabric interfacing never shrinks or bubbles.

The hem is very curved, so to get a flatter hem, I stitched a gathering stitch about 1/4" from lower edge and then pulled the thread to ease in the curves and I folded under the remaining 3/8" for my hem.

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

Yes and Yes. I have sewn it twice, once in view B with C sleeves and two pockets. I am contemplating the longer version D, we will see.

Conclusion:.... I really like the ease of fitting this shirt to your curves or lack thereof.

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!

Absence

2012-01-07T04:56:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard to start blogging again after a long absence? Many days I have almost posted and then thought, it doesn't matter. But it must, because here I am again. I guess whether or not anyone reads this is not the point, I think I just need to say it.

My 23 year old son is being deployed.......to Afghanistan. Those words even typed bring a baseball sized lump to my throat and my tears are no longer under my control. He is not to leave til October, and that is a long ways away. I pray for an end to this war and a safe and early withdrawal for all our sons and daughters, husbands, brothers and sisters.

I am hoping in time, I can just have faith and stop being an emotional wreck, but in the meantime, what seems to work is to just stay busy. Sewing is a great way to stay busy.

I am sewing Butterick 5678 right now. For the second time.

Hoping to post pictures soon.

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing

Vacation!!!!

2011-08-08T18:04:00.000-07:00

Be back end of August!

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!

I have been busy! Just not posting!

2011-07-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

Finished my June Jacket, McCalls 5815, view A. (In June even)

Mine is a medium weight linen from Jo Anns. I ended up with a fabric flaw on the front that I didn't notice til to late, so my collar is reversed. Hides it well. (-: I lengthened the body by 1.5 inches, as it was a bit short on me.

Next up.. Simplicity Easy to Sew button front blouse, I made view B. I did not have to lengthen this one, it has a good length. I used a lightweight cotton with a touch of stretch with tiny white polka dots, from Fabric.com. I love it.

Then I needed a pair of shorts to wear with them, and I thought, why not yellow? So here is my McCalls 5633 view A.

I had to change the crotch length and depth (I mimicked a RTW pair that fit me well for the curve) I used a stretch denim from Fabric.com

Finally got to wear my New Look 6020 to the wedding!

The fabric is a beautiful 'Monet'ish watercolar floral. I believe it is from Fabric.com. A lovely cotton that does NOT wrinkle!

Now I am working on McCalls 6279, in an olive stretch twill from Jo Ann's.

The sleeveless view has 15 buttons! The buttons cost more than the fabric! It is not buttoned on KellyGirl 2, as she is a bit larger than me right now. I cut a straight 16 (except lengthened by 6") but took 1 1/4" side seams above the waist and 1" below the waist. It is not hemmed yet, still just pinned. Not sure how I want to finish the hem.

I was not going to make a self fabric belt, because sometimes it just seems to scream HOMEMADE. I didn't like any of my belts with the dress though, and had used all of my FOUR yards of fabric for the dress, with no scraps except for the bias strips I had cut out in case I needed them for finishing the arms and inner seams. I ended up lining the dress instead though, so I used those bias strips to make the belt! I wish I had cut them wider, but oh well. It will do til I find the perfect belt for it.

Stay Happy, Keep Sewing!

Vogue 1236

2011-06-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

I think I like it. I am not sure. Can't decide if it is cute summer dress or a belted house frock. (-: I had to raise the center front, otherwise it was cut quite low.

Finished Goods and WIP

2011-04-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

Finished Goods:

Jalie 2908 for my sister's Birthday. She lives in OR, she sent me her measurements, and I traced, sewed, topstitched and prayed and then mailed them to her. They fit!!

WIP, Work In Process....

So, to celecbrate, I decided to start my May jacket early. That isn't cheating, is it? McCall's 5815 semi fitted, lined and a very different bow collar.

Here it is with the collar just pinned on. My collar is on the opposite side than that of the pattern picture. My left front had a flaw in the linen just above nipple height that I did not notice in time. So I just reversed the collar and no one will know! I also pleated the front pockets as the drape just did nothing for me.

Happy Sewing! and Happy Easter!

Pfaff is back and I have been busy!

2011-04-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

I finished my April jacket, spring in Flagstaff requires a jacket. The 12" of snow we had last night and today, require more than this jacket..... but, I can wait, suppose to be almost 70 by next Friday. This is the New Look 6799 again.

I took a 1" tuck out of the back and 1/2" out of the front pieces. Was very boxy otherwise. I also added 3 inches in length so that I could have a deeper hem. I added ties to the back to give it a different feel and hemmed the sleeves deep, so that I could cuff them.

I tried piping for the first time. Not sure how I feel about it. Can't tell if it looks nice or looks cutesy. I was not going for cutesy. I don't plan on buttoning it, so I didn't bother with buttons or button holes. Wanted a lighter and fresher look. There is a snap as the top closure, covered by these vintage yellow buttons.

I think it will look nice with a pair jeans. (-:

My dress is almost finished... actually only needs hemming. It is New Look

6020. I am making view D in front, with the lower back of B.

Here are some pics of it earlier in the process. I love the fabric, looks like a Monet watercolor.

I tissue fitted the bodice to my KG2, and could see the princess seams were not going to fit me. I made a muslin of the bodice to get the princess seams to fit my curves. I needed to get rid of gapping at sides above my breast in the armhole area and then the same area on the back piece. I also made the front armhole with less of a scoop, where you can see the white in the front of the arm below, I altered that to fit closer to my arm.

The fit is much better. So I transfered the changes I made on the muslin back to my traced pattern.

Here are my traced pattern changes on top of the original pattern

You can see, I 'unscooped' the front armscyce quite a bit. Hate to have that area showing.

Here is the bodice out of the actual material.

I used 'Nancy's' tutorial to attach the lining to the sleeveless bodice. The whole time I am following it, I am thinking, there is No way this will work! But I followed her instructions to a T, and viola! It worked and it was perfect!

http://picasaweb.google.com/nwinning/LiningASleevelessDress#

I will post a pic wearing it once I have hemmed it. (-:

Happy Sewing!

Backup machines....

2011-03-25T23:26:00.000-07:00

My two workhorse machines are off to the doctors tomorrow.

I had such great plans for them this weekend. )-: My sister's b-day present. A pair of Jalie 2908's.

My 1974 Pfaff Creative sews 8 layers of denim as it it were butter. My grandma's 1967 Singer 467 was my top -stitching dream. Now I have to do both sewing and topstitching on my backup machine. I don't know much about it, bought it at a yard sale last year. It is a Nelco. Sews very well, and is very quiet. Weighs about 25 -30 lbs. Very solid.

Hopefully my main players will be back soon. I think perhaps I need more backup machines........

Happy Sewing!

March Jacket finished!

2011-03-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Simplicity 2227 turns out really cute if you use the right fabric! Here it is on KellyGirl2.

I plan on wearing this over a summer dress, so I did not want buttons. It seemed unfinished with no closure, so I did this....

I have some very old buttons (love estate shopping!) circa 1960 - 70, I just made a loop and attached it on one side, my vintage button on the other.
If I decide to button it....

The pattern does not include a lining, but I wanted it to glide smoothly over my dress, so I made my own. Here is the lining, I bagged it using Palmer & Pletsch's 'Jackets for Real People' I love that book.

March jacket done!

Happy Sewing!

Take two.... Simplicity 2227 Spring jacket aka March Jacket

2011-03-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have not given up on this pattern.

This time a chose a brown linen. I know brown seems like fall, but I chose to think of it as dirt colored. Dirt is definitely spring to me. (-:

I altered the back darts to fit my curves (or lack thereof) and added to the should height. Was not sure how to adapt the sleeve cap to allow for this, so my fingers are crossed. (-:

This jacket pattern is not lined, but I want this to slip smoothly over the cotton sheath dress I will be wearing it over (that I have not made yet.... for a casual June wedding) So I used the front, back and sleeve pattern pieces to cut out the lining pieces. Then I folded the seam allowance down on the appropriate edges of the facing pieces and topstitched them right on top of the front and back lining pieces instead of trying to redraw the pattern to make adjusted lining pattern pieces. Then I just cut away the excess lining that remained under the facing pieces. The lining will be a satiny slippery material that is not so friendly to work with.

I am going to use Palmer & Pletch's Jackets for Real People to bag the lining on this one. I did it once before on my trench looking jacket. I loved the way it turned out.

Happy Sewing! Got to go run!

A wadder / stuffer / orphan

2011-03-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

Well the Simplicity 2227 ended up a ~~wadder~~ stuffer. I don't know what happened. Half way through, I decided I didn't like the fabric. It looks pretty, feels awful. Shreds, verrrry stretchy across grain, no stretch with grain. Made for some unflattering sagging across back.

Then I just lost all drive to finish it. So, it is in the closet. Back right corner..bottom shelf, you can just make it out.. laying there.... I feel like I let it down. I am sorry.

But life is short. Sewing time is precious. I must move on.

So, to cleanse my palette of failure, I decided to return to Simplicity 2599. I loved the ease and comfort of this top so much that I made another!

This is version E with just one ruffle going around the neckline, sans the bow. With bow was just too much. Another light gauzy feeling material. To make it easier to work with, I starched the pieces after I cut them out. Sure made fabric handling easier and it didn't fray quite as fast that way. I did all hong kong finishes on the inside. Again, did not use neck facings, instead used self bias. Much cleaner finish in my opinion.

Here is how I am wearing it tonight, DD2 is taking me out for sushi for my birthday. This jacket is New Look 6799 that I made in February.

And the jeans..... Jalie 2908 from last October.

Happy Sewing!

On a side note.... my running mojo has returned! It left me after the marathon Jan 2010. Somehow it came back. Thank God. Taking it easy and really enjoying it.

T- shirt cure! Simplicity 2599

2011-03-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

JoAnns is having a Simplicity pattern sale. $1.99, so I picked up a few....

Finally, an easy top to make that is not a t-shirt!

I love this pattern. I made view D (yellow one). It is woven, slightly shaped top with various ruffles trims.

Close up of ruffles....

Has a small back opening with button loop closure (not needed - but looks nice)

I did not use the neck facing pieces, I used the armhole pattern piece to make bias to finish the neck line. Shoulder and side seams, all hong kong finished. Not sure of the material. Something crepe-y and sort of grainy feeling. Wore it today with a chocolate brown cardigan.

edited to add version 2!

So far this month, everyday I have worn something that I have made. Kind of easy though.....as I have made all of my panties!

Next up is my March jacket. Simplicity 2227

Thinking of changing the sleeves though to 3/4 length, as despite what the calendar may say, it is still cold here! If the fit is nice, I will do again when it feels like spring with the original sleeves.

Happy Sewing!

New Look 6799 Finished.

2011-02-02T20:06:00.000-08:00

February 2 and 2 jackets made in 2011. I love the bow addition on this collar.

New Look 6799

2011-01-30T19:47:00.000-08:00

Christa 'Sewing4Nine' posted this jacket on PR, she was inspired by a jacket at Talbots. It came out so nice, she inspired me! Christa's New Look 6799

Mine is a lightweight stretch denim in a khaki green. Can't really tell that from the pics. Bow and sleeve are just pinned on at this point, but I think it is going to be cute.

Wow, this would be my second jacket this year.... Maybe I am in the JAM club and don't even know it!

M5816 Finished!

2011-01-08T08:29:00.000-08:00

I finished the McCall's 5816 jacket last night just in time to wear out to dinner!

The fabric is from Fabric.com. It is designer stretch twill in chocolate brown. 55% rayon 45 % cotton.

This was my first outerwear. My first attempt at interlining. My first lining bagging. I love it.

The pattern didn't require much tweaking other than to lengthen the sleeves and body. I interlined the upper sleeves and body with a stretch cotton. I was not sure what I was doing, so at first I had attached the interlining to each of the front, back and sleeve pieces fully. After some sagging of the interlining while pressing the pieces, I did some reading and found out I should have ended the interlining half way down the sleeves and approx 2-3 inches above bottom hem line on the front and back pieces, and to not attach the interlining at the bottom edges of any pieces. Once I made those changes, things went much more smoothly.

To bag the lining, I used 'Jackets for Real People' with Martha Alto, Susan Neal and Patti Palmer. I highly recommend that book. (I also have the Pants for Real People) Their method ended with a professional looking lining. Even down at the bottom front where the lining/facing meet. No hand stitching required anywhere except to close the opening left in the lining for turning the whole shebang right side out. At first I was quite intimidated about trying it, but as is true with most things, it was much easier to do than I had thought!

Front

Front, Inside lining

Back

Back lining, inside

Filling time...

2011-01-05T19:38:00.000-08:00

McCalls 5816 is coming along very well.... I hesitate to start the lining for some reason..... so here it is so far....

The brown mod fabric is the interlining and the white collar is the interfacing, neither of them will show once the lining / facing is inserted.

I interlined the body and upper sleeves and lengthened the sleeves to be full length, as it is quite cold here and I wanted this warmer.

I also insered pockets on the front lower princess seam line.

I really like it so far.. which is probably why I am hesitating about the lining... I don't want to mess it up!

So ... instead, I will post pics of the Christmas presents I made for my family!

Camo PJ's for DH ( sweatshirt material outside, fleece inside! warm)

For my handsome son, warm fleece PJ's

For wonderful DIL

For DD1

For DD2

and for DD3

A co-worker in our office is teaching quite a few of us to knit, so I knit and crocheted some gifts as well!

Knitting is fun, but boy is it hard for me! I did a lot of ripping out and cursing until I became pretty good at 'unknitting'! But is sure is a lot slower than sewing! It took me longer to knit my first scarf than it does to make a pair of Jalie jeans!

I hope to find my nerve tomorrow night to start the jacket lining....... Thanks for stopping by!

Something new for the New Year

2011-01-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

McCalls 5816 is up next. Going with view B, with full length sleeves though. In a brushed stretch chocolate brown twill. Since it is barely above freezing here, I am going to give interlining a try for the first time. (Hence the new comment) (-: Also going to try to insert welt pockets on the front princess seams below the belt. Wish me luck!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T09:38:00.000-08:00

This year has flown by. I hope to sew more, exercise more, stay a non smoker and enjoy my family and friends.

The biggest thing on our horizon this year will be a trip to Scotland for our Anniversary. Awesome.

I wish you all a healthy, happy and propsperous New Year!

10 White Shirts project.....Shirt #2 Complete!

2010-11-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it's not white, but everyone needs black shirts too!

First, the collar.

Then the sleeves.

Then put it all together.

Trying to get a picture of the back where I could focus on anything other than my back rolls was depressing. Where did they come from?

Two down.... now, I need to find some white fabric for at least some of my shirts!

Sewing weekend!

2010-11-19T20:22:00.000-08:00

I procured black interfacing, DH works all weekend.... I feel a sewing weekend coming on! I am also preshrinking some stretch denim....We will see how far I get.

My second white shirt....

2010-11-11T16:39:00.001-08:00

Is .... BLACK. But I haven't any black interfacing, so it will sit all cut out, waiting patiently.

Guess what I am learning how to do???

KNIT! As soon as I can uncramp my hands, I may post a pic or two.

Sewing 10 White Shirts?

2010-11-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

Sounds crazy to me. I keep bumping into this idea on blogs I visit. I think it started by Barbara at http://sewingontheedge.blogspot.com/. I have never been able to sew a button up shirt that I will actually wear. The fit is always wrong and I don't know how to go about fixing it.

Yet this intrigued me..... I ~~have~~ had a shirt in my closet ~~that I have outgrown~~... that has shrunk. But I like the style, and when it fit, I thought it looked good. It was RTW.... So.. I disected it. Changed a few things and traced out my own pattern. This was my test run, but I think I might actually wear this one! I wish I had made the sleeves and inch or two longer, as the cuff hits right at my elbow, but next time.

So... I guess that means. 1 down.... 9 to go. (-: Thank you for the inspriration Barbara!

Boo!

2010-10-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

No Sew

2010-10-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

Traveling for a conference this week, so no sewing.... my wardrobe for 4 days is made by me for 6 of the 8 pieces. (-: Not bad. My only creative outlet this week will be crocheting, as that was easier to 'carry on' than my sewing machine. (-:

Wow. Where has the time gone?

2010-10-09T18:40:00.000-07:00

I have not been absent from the blogging world, just unposted. I have been lurking and reading and wondering where my mojo went......

So..To get into the swing of Fall sewing, I decided to do the Jalie 2908 jeans again..... and NOT because the last ones no longer fit.... ok, so maybe not JUST because the last ones no longer fit, but also to see if I still had it. The mojo.

I am a little out of practice, but it sure was fun. My dd liked my pocket design, but said the layout had to be this way, as she thought the pocket design appears to be saying 'Ta Da' .....where when the pockets were reversed, the design appeared to be saying 'Droopy Butt'

Can't have that!

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

Another year drawn to a close. My resolution to be healthy, happy, not smoke and to keep running was successful. I did not make my goal of 800 miles, but 681 is good and I feel ready for the Marathon in 3 weeks. I have been absent from blogging for awhile. Life has been extremely busy lately. First with the wedding, then Thanksgiving, then my BIL (a DPS officer) was hit by a semi while at the scene of a rollover on 11/29. He was taken out of Critical Care yesterday. MIL has been staying with us off and on to be here for him. He has begun to make good progess and his brain function seems good which was the biggest worry. There has been no sewing. I go crazy without a creative outlet so I have begun to crochet. I am self taught and not very good, but have made a few scarves and am now making washcloths. I love handmade washcloths. My children are all healthy and happy as are my DH and I. I have SO much to be thankful for. My resolution for next year.... Continue to run, and continue to sew. They lead to a healthy mind and healthy body. Love and enjoy my family. I wish anyone who happens to stop by a blessed and wonderful New Year.

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2009-11-26T12:17:00.001-08:00

The Bride and Groom

2009-11-22T18:01:00.000-08:00

Mr and Mrs

A new beginning...

Now I have four girls.

Aren't they adorable?

My baby....

My DH

And then there were 5

Bride's cake

Groom's cake

Now I need a vacation.

I need a mommymoon. They can have Maui, I could stay on Kauai.....

Do the Bustle!

2009-11-14T17:19:00.000-08:00

Who knew I could bustle? Not me! My soon to be daughter-in-law needed her wedding dress bustled for after the ceremony as it has a good sized train. Her first fitting of the bustle did not go so well. It was very warm in my house (fireplace going) and the dress is very heavy and many layers .... After about 20 minutes of pinning, she started to sway. We quickly spread sheets on the couch as she flopped down. (-; Since by that time we had the length needed, we extricated her from the dress and KellyGirl 2 came to the rescue and the remainder of the pinning, and then attaching of loops and ribbons was done on her. I finished today.

Here she is...

I think it looks gorgeous. More importantly, so does DIL to be!

I also finished my dress today

Phew.... Now I am going to go take a break!

My Son

2009-11-07T21:41:00.000-08:00

Today I had the pleasure of running with my son. He is leaving for the Marines in February and is trying to get a jump start on improving his fitness. He had done a fun run with me when he was much younger, but this is the first time we have actually just run together. I truly enjoyed it. I will miss him so when he leaves. Makes my heart cry just thinking about it.

Tomorrow is my long run. First long one since I strained my calf. 18 miles. Wish me luck.

Mother of the Groom Wedding Dress progress..... It has been hanging on my body double since last week, and I think that it actually looks better after all that hanging. The poofs are less.. poofy. I finished the bolero to cover my shoulders and I began attaching the neck pieces to the bodice today and pinned in the invisible zip to try it on... I think it is going to be all right. (-:

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

Help!

2009-11-01T16:26:00.000-08:00

Ok, I need some advice. This dress is not finished. The collar is pinned on. There is no zipper yet, I pinned it down the back (by myself!) and it is not hemmed.

BUT..

I keep looking in the mirror and thinking I look like a tree trunk. I thick tree trunk. The skirt gathers and poofs out... right where I poof out. It just draws my eyes to it and that is all I can see. I am tempted to rip the skirt of and make the fitted one.... (part of my brain says, the fitted one will magnify my waist issues, where this poofy one, well, hides them)

Opinions?

Shop to Sew!

2009-10-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well I had to shop, so I could sew. (-:

I finished fitting my muslin bodice of New Look 6799, I am pretty sure I have decided on B....but bought extra fabric incase the skirt is not me, then I will go with C.

For the dress.... a chocolate Shantung. Feels like raw silk. Love it.

For the lining...

Goldenrod Taffeta

for either a wrap or a light jacket...

Goldenrod embroidered taffeta

Have cut it all out, and started the bodice lining..... but trick or treaters have started, so time for a break!

To sew or to shop..... That is the question.

2009-10-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

What to do about a dress for my son's wedding. Shop or Sew? I am leaning towards sew.
I really like the vintage look of New Look 6799. I like both B and C. I have traced and fitted the bodice portion to my KG2 (duct tape body double). Cut out a muslin. Now to just sew the bodice muslin together. I think I will do a muslin of both skirt bottoms, just so I can figure out which one I prefer.

Not sure what fabric.... it will depend on the skirt I decide to go with...

The bride's colors are fall colors, deep purple, browns, oranges and yellows. I am thinking either a deep chocolate brown swishy fabric with the wider skirt or a mixture of these colors in a brocade perhaps for the slim skirt? who knows, I will have to go stare at the fabric available..

Later!

Boo!

2009-10-28T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hers

His

Gap 1969 RTW copy #2

2009-10-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to sewing the jeans I cut out in July! These are my second copy of a pair of GAP 1969 jeans. I loved the originals, but alas, they could no longer contain me.

This is a stretch denim that I bought at FABRIC.COM. I liked the color when I cut it out... now I am thinking it is awful blue.... looks like the 70's.

I have not yet hemmed them. Even though I preshunk the fabric a few times, I will wash and dry them a couple times before I hem them.

The waistband I cut in two sections, right and left and then sewed them together at a slant. Before I attached the waistband, it was a slight V shape. This helps get rid of the gaping at the back. I used some quilting cotton for the pockets, inside waistband and fly extension. (like a cute little secret hiding inside, just for me) Debbie Cook's fly tutorial once again ended with a perfect zipper installation.

I tried my hand (er..machine) at embroidering on the coin pocket... not so hot, but I can live with it. (-:

I used Coats and Clark heavy duty thread for the topstitching in camel.

I did crossed belt loops on the back. I rarely wear a belt, but it just doesn't seem like jeans without belt loops!

I drew the design for the back pockets using my curved taylors ruler.

I think for my next pair, I want to try some really dark denim. I have some great golden yellow topstitching thread that I think would look really sharp with dark denim.

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

Practice cake round 2...

2009-10-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

This is my baby just a few years ago.... and now he is getting married.

Here is the happy couple...

On to the cake.....

This time we only made 1 double 10" tier. This would be the center tier on the actual cake, as well as the size of the groom cake.

What did we do different this time? After making and cooling the layers, we froze them. Then using a dowel, made holes in bottom layer before applying the raspberry filling. This allowed the filling to ooze down into the holes to allow more filling per bite. yum. Then we frosted them with buttercream and froze the cake again. We made the fondant this time, as we were not impressed with the taste of store bought. We made marshmallow fondant. Boy, what a chore that was! (mostly for DDA). The fondant was much easier to apply to the frozen buttercream. The mm fondant was also much more forgiving than the storebought. Applied more easily and tears were mendable. The big test is..... What happens to the fondant as the cake defrosts? We plan on letting the cake rest til Monday evening and see how the fondant holds up. A successful test will allow us to make the cakes layers a few days ahead of time, and then apply the fondant up to 2 days prior to the wedding. Assembly we will save for after the cake is delivered.

Here are the tired but happy Wedding Cake testers.

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

On the running front... after last Sunday's 16 mile run, I had a nagging pain in my left calf and heel. I think I strained it, too many hills in the 16 mile run. I iced it all week and took lots of ibuprofen. Have not run since. Today I was scheduled for an 18 miler... I think I will do a few and see how it feels and 6 if all is well and then work up to doing the 18 miler next weekend. Wish me luck!

On the sewing front.... I am finally making the second copy of GAP 1969 RTW jeans that I cut out in July! I have to apply the waistband and then do all the topstitching and belt loops. Wash a few times and then hem. Will post picks when I am done. Funny thing, when I cut them out, I liked the denim I had chosen, now I look at it and think ... very 70's looking. Oh well.

Practice runs, practice wedding cakes.....

2009-10-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

Here is our first practice wedding cake..... we ran out of fondant, so the middle tier is just buttercream. Took us 8, eight, EIGHT, 8 hours.

My DDA did the fondant, it was her first time and I think she did a good job. Since then we have gotten a few more pointers and plan on another practice cake, 1 tier this time.

We have been eating cake alllll weekend. Giving it away to whomever happens to stop by.

Good thing I am doing long runs for the marathon training, 16 miles on Sunday. That burnt off a few cake calories!

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

Just call me the bag lady....

2009-10-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

There are so many things I want to sew.... so many patterns waiting in the wings, and my stash just continues to grow... yet ... I sew bags. I think that there is just so much going on in my life, that in my sewing world I want instant gratification. Bags do that for me. (-:

My son is getting married next month.... My DD and I are making the cake. Our first wedding cake. We will make a few practice cakes between now and then. So far all we have done is plan and buy all the fixins.

I have to arrange dinners to meet the two sets of parents on the brides side.... Our own little 'Meet the Fockers' (-: and plan the rehearsal dinner. My son joined the Marines (smile, sniff sniff, worry worry) ... he will be shipping out in Jan or Feb.... I have 2 wonderful daughters who work and go to college and I try to find time to hang out with...oh yeah, and I work full time. and have a darling husband I try to spend time with... and I am training for a marathon in Jan... phew am I tired. So what did I do? Ran 8 miles.... and Made More Bags.

The first is a Messenger Bag from a wonderful tutorial written by Larissa @ MMMcrafts.

The applique is not part of the pattern, so I used hers as an inspiration. It is from recycled material. (retired pants and skirt)

This second one is called a Hobo Bag (not sure why) from a tutorial by jcarolyncreative.com. I did not follow the tutorial exactly, so my body and handle is slightly diff, and it has no tab closure.

The outer fabric, which I love, is a recycled throw pillow cover and the interior is a linen from an retired skirt. Pocket is lined with nubby silk.

Well now I must sleep. So goodnight.

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

Carbo Load

2009-10-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

14 mile run tomorrow. Wish me luck. (-:

Run when you can

Walk if you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

The Grand Canyon

2009-10-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

We live 76 miles from this awe inpiring wonder. Saturday we hiked it to Plateau Point. Six miles down into the canyon to the point. Six MILES back out. The sign at Indian Gardens says... the first 6 miles are optional. The second 6 are not. (-:

To view the Grand Canyon from the rim is breathtaking. To experience the canyon from within is soul touching. No matter how many people are in your group, it is a very personal experience. Of course is is also breathtaking, literally, when you make the trek out of the canyon. (-:

Colorado River from Plateau Point

The top of the ridge farthest behind me is where we began our hike on Bright Angel trail

Run when you can

Walk if you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

Do I hear bells?

2009-09-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Guess who is getting married?????? My baby.

She is Perfect for him!

Aren't they just adorable? November 21st.

I am pooped.

2009-09-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

12 miles this morning. I am pooped. Kids are coming over tonight and we are making chicken green chili enchiladas. I better take a nap!

Run when you can

Walk if you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Later!

I love BAGS.

2009-09-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

A co-worker of mine requested a black denim Market bag with puppies inside. Took me forever to find puppy material that I could stand. Here is the finished bag. I hope Carol likes it!

Lots of puppies inside...

And inside the zippered pocket.... Napping puppies!

Of course, if you are going to make one bag.... why not more?

B/W Burst of Flowers Teardrop Bag

Fleur de Lis Tootsi Roll Bag

and Fall Paisley Teardrop Bag

Now... I must clean house a bit!

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up!

Butterick 5328 Gathered Wrap Front top

2009-09-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

Finally a few pics of what I have been sewing. Hubby was available to take pics today.

Here is B5328 gathered front wrap top and McCalls 5590 high waisted pencil skirt. I definitely had to work on the top. The gathers really needed reworking on the front, and the sleeves!--I inserted the first one TWICE! they looked like clown sleeves. Huge poof. I took it out and compared it to a Vogue sleeve that I had success with before and ended up reshaping the sleeve head. Third time in was the charm. They are still gathered, but much less. I really love this shirt. Think I want to do one sleeveless. No buttons! No zippers! Got to love it!

This pencil skirt I have made a few times. Next time I will not make it high waisted. I love this fabric, got it on sale at JoAnns. Not sure what it is called, but I hadto interface it with knit interfacing on all seams. I also added an insert in the back slit so my slip would not show.

Here is the whole ensemble, sans shoes of course. If I look sick and tired.... well, I have been both. (-:

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up

Later!

Anniversary Ride

2009-09-07T14:08:00.001-07:00

Last night we decided to take a train ride for our Anniversary. The skies had been dumping rain for hours but as we neared the train stop, the rain stopped, the clouds disappeared and a moonlit sky shone above. We were the first to arrive, so we got our pick of train cars. We chose the open air caboose. As the conductor buckled us in our seats, he wished us a very Happy Anniversary. We waited as a few other hopeless romantics chose their seats, and then our ride began. The train whistle was very quiet and distant sounding from the rear of the train, but as we rounded tight curves, we could see the conductor and he would sound the whistle for us. (and maybe for the pig tailed little girl 3 cars ahead of us). As we neared the concert station, we could hear the band and see the people dancing under the stars. We held hands, it was a very romantic ride. Soon we were zipping past the home economics building which displayed the most beautiful hand made quilts and then past the swine and goat pens. Zoom past the ducks, turkeys and geese. We zigged and we zagged around the specators who jumped out of the trains way at the very last moment. We were amazed at the conductors talent at tight turns around ice cream vendors and slow moving strollers. As we neared the end of our ride, we whizzed past the vendor selling funnel cakes and I knew the remainder of our date would be just as sweet.

How I spent my End of Summer Vacation

2009-09-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

(no longer to be referred to as our Anniversary Vacation - that is still to come)

I found a wrap top at Saver's (used clothing store) that I just loved. It was too small, but at only $1., I figured I could use it as a pattern.

My first muslin, I did out of a quilting cotton, came out pretty nice, but gapped at the chest some. This is the second one I have made. I really like it. I folded the neck edge seam over invisible elastic which I pulled every so lightly while stitching (fixed the gapping issue). This is a very see through woven, and loves to fray. I had to finish all inside seams. I did french seams and some other finish which I don't know the term for. You trim one side of the 5/8" seam allow short, fold the other towards it and then over again and then stitch just inside the orginal seam allowance. Makes for a nice enclosed seam. That is how I finished the armhole seams. The sleeves I morphed from a Vogue T shirt pattern. See through quality insists on a cami. I am thinking black or brown would look nice.

KG's (my body double's) tape has relaxed slightly over the years, so she is a tad larger than me (or I have shrank) so this shirt does not fit me this snugly.

Run when you can
Walk when you need
Crawl if you must
Just never give up

Later!

Off to the Market!

2009-09-05T13:20:00.001-07:00

Well, if I felt up to it, I could be off to the market with my new Market Bag!

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up

Later!

Sick of Flying?

2009-09-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

I am!
4 hours on a plane with some guy coughing on me the whole way. Now I am sick. Been a rough week. Playing catch up at work, then prepping for a week of vacation, a biopsy (benign, thank god) and a head cold trying to take up residence in my chest. Thankfully, my vacation began today.
I refuse to not enjoy my week off. My husband also has the week off. It was suppose to be an anniversary vacation (married 6 years), instead it will be 'tearing off an old roof and laying a new' - HIM, 'cleaning house and reorganizing the sewing room' - ME. Still sounds pretty good, as long as I can shake this darn cold. First thing on the sewing block in a new Market bag. For ME. (-: Have sold all of the others and I am in need of a new big bag. On the 9th my latest Fabric.com purchase is suppose to arrive. More knits for fall tops. Hope I actually have time to do some organizing!!

Run when you can
Walk when you need
Crawl if you must
Just never give up

Later!

Away

2009-08-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

I am leaving for a week long conference in the am, so....no sewing for a week! egads. Hope I survive. I tried to get a quick fix in yesterday to last me. I made the M5590 pencil skirt (this time without the high waist and my invisible zip is... well invisible!) and two Jalie tops. The twist 2788 out a of beaufiful wine colored organic cotton the other the Empire CrossOver 2804 out of a lightweight white cotton. All fabrics from FABRIC.COM. All came out very nice. No pics til I get back, I just got back from a 6 mile run so am too sweaty to do pics and no one around to take them for me anyway. (-:

Run when you can

Walk when you need

Crawl if you must

Just never give up

Later!!

Almost half way!

2009-08-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

Just shy of half way to my 800 miles goal this year! I know, I know, you are thinking, just almost half way and August is ALMOST over! No worries, Marathon training officially starts next month, I will make 800 by years end! You would think with all the miles I am running (and NO strawberry shortcake in MONTHS) that the lbs would be falling of..... but no. I have lost some, but mostly my body is changing, more muscle, less flab. Good thing, the gravity battle is non stop.

I have been sewing like crazy - skirts, jeans, purses.... and fabric SHOPPING like crazy. My fabric stash needs it's own room now. I should buy stock in FABRIC.COM I must be readying myself for the long winter. Stocking up in case I am snowed in for months. ((-:

Just finished a 7 mile run. I must hit the shower as that smell is either Poncho (our yorkie) or me and he is wrinkling his nose at me.

P.S. Britt bought a hula hoop. One of those huge ones with water in it. We still got it -- The MOVES that is....AND the hula hoop, she has a hard time fitting it in her car!

Run when you can
Walk when you need
Crawl if you must
Just never give up

Later!

Blogcation?

2009-08-02T08:12:00.000-07:00

Where has my blogging mojo gone? I have been sewing, ALOT! I have been running, ALOT! I have been lurking on others blogs and reading their entertaining and inciteful musings. But I have no drive, no motivation to blog! What is up with that? I just got back from an 8 mile run.... think I will shower and clean off my sewing table and work on something. (-: Happy Sunday.

Four day weekends....

2009-07-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Got to love a 4 day weekend. Happy Fourth of July!! and then Monday is my DH's bday. I am baking a turkey today so that I can make green chili turkey enchiladas for his birthday dinner. We are also having elk tacos! mmm mmm good.

The craft bazaar went very well. I sold quite a bit. Was kind of surreal watching others walk around with purses that I made on their shoulder. I liked it! I received many requests for my card and my website. I have neither!

Had a special request for a denim Market bag. Finished it this week, the buyer was very happy!

I think I will try some more craft bazaars. (-: Have been busy sewing more purses.

Here is a red canvas Market bag. I love it.... not sure if I will be able to sell this one.. (-:

There are more... in 'my creations'

Cut myself out another copy of RTW 1969 by the GAP, but they just sit there. Waiting for me.

Maybe tonight..... DH has to work.

Happy 4th!

More purses.....

2009-06-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

I have made a few more purses for the craft bazaar.... I think I need something new to work on! I have some washed and dried stretch denim in this medium color blue that is just dieing to become a copy of my RTW Gap jeans..... But first.... here are my latest purses...
A pleated purse I designed.... used a left over border print from my highwaisted pencil skirt...

A large tote I also designed, made of the left over denim from my last RTW copy jeans. I just love the inside, all quilted and with actual jean pockets that I ended up not using on my jeans!

A large Market bag, made of left over fabric from a Lula Louise reversable bag I had made my DD last year.

And a couple more zippered bags. I just love these bags, great way to organize your purse!

Adult Prom?

2009-06-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

I had never heard of an Adult Prom. Fun for grown ups. Who knew? My DD's invited me, but my husband is working this weekend, which means I have a non stop date with my SM.

My girls searched for Vintage dresses to wear. They stopped by to let me get pics of their prom dresses.. Aren't they just adorable? DDB is a fitted black corset with an exploding skirt of tule, white with black polka dots. Has one (sleeve?) strap?, a big poof of the tule. DDA is a flapper. She is wearing a black satin flappers dress with a headband that she made of peacock feathers and a jewel. Their shoes? High top converse and ballet flat tennis shoes.

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

It is overcast and threatening to rain here, but still a beautiful day. Going to MIL for a BBQ this afternoon, and she always has enough food to feed an army. I decided I needed to make something appropriate for a day of eating. (-:

This is Mcall's 5050. A pullover tunic with short or long sleeves. I made view A. The girl on the pattern envelope looks young, fresh, breezy and slim in her cute little tunic. Something got lost in the making. (-: This tunic on me raises the silent question..... is that a maternity top? But no, GOD NO, it is merely a loose tunic perfect for BBQ over eating! I think this would also make a great bathing suit cover up or cute summer dress if made a little longer. As for the question it raises, let them wonder. ((-:

Rock On!

Knit tops.... got to love them

2009-05-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

I love the ease and instant gratification from knit tops.

I had traced out Butterick 5283 awhile back but did not know what fabric I wanted to use. I found a the perfect knit hiding in my stash. It was a Georgeous Fabrics find a few months back. This close fitting pullover top is another take on the twist front. I made view B with 3/4 length sleeves. The upper portion is self faced, so a bulky knit might not work as well. I think this would be most flattering on a larger chest, but I am still very happy with it.

This was just one of 3 knits tops I made so far this weekend. If I can get pics, I will post the other two.

Rock On!

Edited to add the Vogue 8451 tops I also created this weekend...

Black and white top is V8451 View A with sleeves from B5283 and my own ruffles.

Black and multi flowered top is also V8451 view A.

Rock On!

Influence

2009-05-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Kids can be such a good influence. Ok, so maybe my 'kids' are (gulp) grown ups, but they are still kids to me. My DD has a goal to run a full marathon before she is 25. So she has set as a goal the full PF Chang's Rock and Roll Marathon in January. So I (gulp) decided to do it with her. We have found a 19 week mileage buildup training schedule which we are on week 2 of. After completing the 19 week mileage buildup, the 18 week Marathon training schedule begins. Whew... I am tired already. This is definitely one way to meet my running resolution for 800 miles this year!

Rock On!

Jalie 2908 Round 2

2009-05-16T08:43:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I have finished my second pair of Jalie 2908 stretch jeans and I LOVE them! This time I used a heavier denim from JoAnn's. I was prepared for the slim fit through the thigh this time and added an extra 1/4" in on inner and outer during cutout from the bottom of the hip through the knee. I then still only sewed a 1/4" seam allowance in this area. These pictures are after wearing them all day, so they are a bit looser. My only dislike (too strong of a word actually) is the slight bagginess on either side of my front crotch.... I think I took too small of a seam allowance from the zipper bottom to the inner thigh.... either that or my front inner crotch shrank. (-:

Rock On!

Taking a break from purse making....

2009-05-13T21:23:00.001-07:00

Sneak peak at my next Jalie 2908 stretch jeans, much heavier stretch denim this time, still only 1/4 seams from bottom of hips to knees, but I am thinking these will be great! Still have lots of top stitching to do, belt loops and the back pockets......

Rock On!

Purses, purses, get your purses here!

2009-05-06T18:52:00.001-07:00

I think I am ready to hawk at next month's craft fair. My fingers hurt.

I have made potholders.....

and cupcakes!

Little purses....

and big purses!

And that is just a few..... You can see the rest in 'my creations'

Just a few more to go....

118.5 miles down

681.5 to go!

Rock On!

Absent but not idle.....

2009-05-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

I have not been blogging but I have been busy! I am making my first foray into selling items I have sewn..... There is a local craft bazaar next month. I had make a few purses in the past for myself and received comments about where I had gotten them and if I sold them.... So I decided to give it a whirl! So far I have made a dozen purses of various patterns, 10 zippered pouches, 3 sets of pot holders and half a dozen cupcakes (pincushions). Sewing to sell (or try to sell) is defintely different that sewing for fun. I miss sewing for fun! Every once in a while the thought creeps into my head.... What if I sell nothing??? I have decided to look at it this way, if I sell nothing, then I already have Christmas gifts for this year! The hardest part for me so far, is deciding how to price things. I am such a slow sewer that charging for my time, makes everything so expensive! Does anybody else have a calculation or tip on how to price things for sale?

111.5 miles down
688.5 to go!
Rock On!

You were Right!!!

2009-04-15T06:24:00.001-07:00

Ok, true confessions. After multiple washings and wearings, I do love these 2908 jeans! Yes, they are still a bit snug just above my knees, but that is just inspiration to make this pattern again.

I just wanted to say 'Thank You' for all your support and wisdom! Why do we get so frustrated with things we sew that it skews our perspective? Patience won out in the end.

Happy Easter!!!

2009-04-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

I ran across this Fabric Basket tutorial from Pink Penguin this morning. Once I saw it, I knew I had to make one for Easter!!!

http://ayumills.blogspot.com/2008/05/tutorial-fabric-basket.html

I know, I know, a little LAST minute! But all of my little ones are grown up and won't be over until later for dinner. (Except for my DDB who is her now, whipping herself up a new purse)

DDB's new purse!

DDB is making Whiskey BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw and sweet potato fries for our Easter Dinner!! For dessert will be.... More Strawberry shortcake! This time with blackberries and blueberries as well. (and I wonder why my jeans are snug?)

********************************************************************************

Edited to add the highlight of Easter.... Kids showed up. DDB behind purse, DDA laughing, DSM's foot.

I wish you all a blessed Easter!

100.8 miles down

699.2 miles to go!

Rock On!

Jeans Sew Along.....came and gone....

2009-04-10T21:16:00.000-07:00

Well I have completed my Jalie 2908 stretch denim jeans.

Sounds so anticlimatic. Where are the fireworks and confetti?

The celebration has been postponed. I am not sure how I feel about these jeans. I feel like a jilted sewer.

First off, I just don't have a Jalie body type (at least on my lower half). I went by my hip measurement which ended up being a size W, and traced that out. The legs looked way too slim. So I compared them to a pair of jeans that I wear and the legs WERE way to slim from the hip down to the knee. So I added to both inner and outer leg in this area. And still, I had to sew the pants with barely an 1/4" seam in this area and the legs are snug. I think I just have large quads. Could be from running, could be from cookies, brownies, cheetos, strawberry shortcake, etc.

While they are snug fitting all over, I think that the material is the real issue. It is a stretch denim from JoAnns, and I think it is too light weight. Snug jeans in a light weight denim make me feel like I am wearing a sausage casing. Lumpy and bumpy.

Snug jeans in a heavy denim are just more flattering, they have a much more smoothing effect..

My DH disagrees, thinks they look great. I am hoping they will grow on me. I have not hemmed them yet, want to wash and dry a few more times before hemming.

One thing I am pleased with is my back pockets! I love how they turned out. The closeup of the back pocket is the only picture that shows the actual color of my jeans. The rest I had to enhance to brighten them, and well...it made them appear blue!

For my back belt loop, I went with the crossover loop that cindyintampa shared in the Jeans Sew Along message board. I love it.

I also tried rivets this time. That was an adventure! RocketBoy suggested rivets from http://www.grommetmart.com/. I ordered them on Monday and they arrived on Thursday. Unfortunately, they did not come with a handyman to install them. I practiced with many on varying layers of denim out on the cold garage floor with my trusty hammer and vice grips. Almost everytime, the nail came through the front on the rivet. I finally ended up using nails from JoAnns rivets and Grommetmart's front part of the rivets. I used a snipper to snip the nails shorter and then pliers to reshape the now flattened nail head and then tried not exerting superhuman strength when compressing, and the nail head still came through, but I thought I could live with it. Then I tried the pants on.. and boing... there went two rivets across the room. So much for being hard to remove!!!

So this time, I snipped the nail heads even shorter and tried again. So far, so good. (-: We will see if they are still there after I wash and dry.

So now that I am done whining about these jeans, I feel better. Maybe I even like them a little bit more. (-: I guess, if all else fails, I can do it again, in a better quality denim and insert a little more strawberry shortcake room in the thigh area. Because for me, the making is more than half of the fun.

100.8 miles down

699.2 to go!

Rock On!

On my way!

2009-04-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

I finished tracing the Jalie 2908 stretch denim jeans pattern. Took about 2 hours! I used Kwik Sew Pattern Tracing Cloth for the first time. I did not really care for it. I think it was a combo of the dot grids on the cloth, the multiple lines for sizing on the pattern and the square grids of my cutting table, but by the time I was done... I was dizzy and had a headache! It was also hard to mark on. I usually use Easy Pattern tracing paper that I buy at JoAnns, I think I will stick with it.
Despite my nausea, I did get it completely traced, pinned and cut out. Yippee!

I just realized that I don't have a jeans zipper..... used it on the pair I made while waiting for this pattern! So tomorrow at lunch I will pick up a jeans zipper and then hopefully tomorrow night I can get the zipper installed and maybe the front pockets done. (-:

96.8 down
703.2 to go!
Rock On!

Uncontained

2009-04-06T17:17:00.000-07:00

My Pattern Came Today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A tracing I will go, a tracing I will go, High Ho the Dairy - O, a tracing I will go!

And..... My rivets mailed today as well! Should be here Thursday!

Impatience

2009-03-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

There is a Jeans Sew Along happening on PR. Cabinbaby started it when the new Jalie jeans pattern came out(2908) I joined the Sew Along, I ordered the pattern, I bought the some beautiful black stretch denim from JoAnns.... I washed and dryed the material, I waited. I washed and dryed the material again... I waited..... I read all of the progress others were making on the Sew Along... I waited... I bought more material, a stretch metro Indigo from Fabric.com.... I washed and dryed the material.....I waited. Still no Jalie Pattern! I got so impatient, I decided what I needed was to keep busy while waiting.

I have (had) a pair of 1969 jeans from the GAP. They were so.... well fitting, that I ripped out the rear and one knee. (-: I took them apart yesterday and decided they would make the perfect stretch jeans pattern, while I patiently await my Jalie pattern.
((-:

You can see the lovely patch job I attempted on the rear. I loved these jeans. So, I cut one side apart and used it as a pattern on my lovely metro indigo from Fabric.com

I think they turned out quite nice. I love working with stretch denim! It is just what my body needs!

I had to install this zipper THREE times. Completely, I am talking top stitching, bar tacking, fly extension inside.. the works.

1st time.... made fly way to loonnng. Extended down into my crotch! Not a good look.
2nd time... did a beautiful job! except the damn zipper was inserted backwards! Had to stick my hand in my pants to zip and unzip. (-: That won't do.
3rd time... was the charm. Good thing, I think if I had to pick out that topstitching anymore, I would have worn a hole in the fabric!

I think the pockets turned out nice as well, I think I am getting the hang of topstitching with heavy thread. Now I just need to work on placement.... I unfortunately went against my better judgement and added the back pockets prior to construction.... and now they are a tad off. But oh well, I can live with it!

For the inside, I used a vintage pillow ticking that I picked up at St Vincent De Paul. I just love it!

So now that I have that out of my system, I think I will be able to patiently await my new Jalie stretch denim jeans pattern, so that I can participate in the Jeans Sew Along!

96.8 down!
703.2 to go!
Rock On!

Cure for a headache

2009-03-24T17:26:00.000-07:00

I woke up with a headache today and it was still aching when I got off work today. I decide to take a run instead of tylenol. (-: Runs usually cure my headaches. The weather cooperates today, still in the low 50's when I got home. Slight breeze. I started out running through the surrounding neighborhoods and then down an urban trail that runs through the woods and along a canyon. There are ducks swimming on the small pond above the dam. A little girl, balancing carefully on one foot, is intently studying them from the wooden bridge. She smiles at me and then at the ducks. I run past her brother, with a small rock in his hand, also watching the ducks intently. He drops the rock and smiles. Another 1/4 mile through the woods and then back out along the road and into neighborhoods again. Just over 3 miles and ...smile.. my headache is gone.

88.4 miles down
711.6 to go!
Rock On!

Weekends

2009-03-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

My husband works a rotating night shift, so it ends up that every other weekend he is working nights, sleeping days. I call these my Sew til you Drop weekends. (-: I am working on squeezing some 'home chores' in when I come up for air from my machines.... Not working out very well though.

Up first on the menu for this weekend was another M5590 high waisted pencil skirt. This time View A, out of a chocolate twill, with belt loops and side pockets. I wish it were about 1 1/2" longer, but oh well. I did not have a cute little belt, so this is just a piece of a jelly roll I had.

For my second course, I felt compelled to make a shirt to pair up with my first M5590. My DD2 suggested something with ruffles. I found Simplicity 2697 and thought it would be perfect! I made view F for the ruffles, and added view B's puffed sleeve with sleeve band.

Aren't the ruffles and puffed sleeve so ... feminine? I do not usually do puffed sleeves, but I think that this turned out very well. My only complaint is that the shoulders slip a bit and then the dreaded bra strap flash happens. Here is a better shot of the sleeves, and the ruffles that are just attached to the front of the shirt!

And then..... here it is with this my second M5590..........

So now.... it is only Sunday morning..... Awaiting in the side lines are.... grocery shopping, laundry, living room 'uncluttering', a short run .... and yet, all I can think about is this plum linen that I bought and Simplicity 2651.........

77.3 down

722.7 miles to go!

Rock On!

Spring!! I am ready!

2009-03-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for spring to hurry up and be here! Gardening, flowers, green grass, fresh tomatos, fresh herbs.... shorts! sandals! ..... Today the sky was spitting frozen tiny snow and the wind was cruel. Maybe if I make some skirts, the weather will come around.

This is McCalls 5590 high waisted pencil skirt, view B.

Not sure if this is the best shirt to wear with it... I always have the hardest time putting things together. Luckily for me, my daughters both love to 'help' me!

I love the tabs on this skirt, I think it breaks up the width of the waist and adds a little fun.

You can see from the back, that not only am I a newbie to invisible zippers, but I didn't even use the right color! Live and learn.

73.3 down

726.7 miles to go

Rock On!

Birthdays!! Got to love them!!

2009-03-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

My Baby boy just turned 20. Isn't he handsome!

Ever since he was little, his favorite dinner was... Hamburger Helper. Ok, so that may say something about my cooking abilities when he was small, but oh well.

So for dinner, my handsome husband made him Elk Stroganoff (grown up HHelper)

and I made him a chocolate, white swirled cake with raspberry filling and cream cheese frosting... mmmm mmm

My DD's made me the most delicious carrot cake (my fave)

Grandma and Grandpa R came to party....

DD Britt

DD Ashley and her sweetie Al

and the Birthday boy with his sweetheart..

73.3 miles down

726.7 to go

Rock On!

Burda World of Fashion Magazine

2009-03-01T06:21:00.000-08:00

I read so much about the BWOF patterns that Pattern Reviewers try, and I love the idea of patterns that are diff than the big 4 that I inquired into a subscription.....$80.00 here in the US for this German fashion mag. It comes out monthly and CONTAINS patterns that you trace and go. For inquiring they sent me the Spring 3/2009 for free! This issue contains 10 coat/jacket, 8 blouse/top, 8 dresses, 3 pants, 5 mens and childrens patterns. As well as photos of all of these pattens made and their fabric suggestions. That is alot of patterns!! albeit, that I won't want to try them all, in this issue there are two so far that are intriguing - #114 the trenchcoat and 106 the blouse and 107 the dress...ok, so there are 3 SO FAR that are intriguing. But looking at the pattern sheet that you trace from looks very intimidating!! I am trying to decide if the investment is worth it.....if any one passing by subscribes to BWOF, please leave me your thoughts on the patterns / magazine and ease (or not) of the patterns.

Happy March!

I did it again!!

2009-02-28T11:18:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it seems as if when I hit on something that works for me, I just do it to death. I made another 'My Flirt' pair of jeans, this time in faded blue denim from JoAnns. They are a copy of my fave RTW, Flirt by Old Navy.

I envisioned a faded comfy looking pair of jeans to knock about in. Now I remember why dark jeans are more flattering than light jeans, but oh well, these are going to be my weekend jeans.

I did some embroidery on the smaller front pockets and the belt loops. I think it gives it a warm hippy feel. I don't mind looking like a warm hippy. (-:

62.2 miles down!

737.8 miles to go!

Rock On!

Joanie's Jammies!!!

2009-02-26T20:05:00.000-08:00

My sister has officially jumped on the sewing bandwagon. Her fabric is a beautiful flannel, great colors.

Here is her first creation. Flannel jammies with casing waistband with drawstrings and buttonholes! Not sure which pattern she used, will have to update later.

Butterick 4914 Maggy London Dress

2009-02-20T17:51:00.000-08:00

My daughter saw this material on clearance at JoAnns.

She said, Mom! These colors would look great on you. It is a knit, black and dark olive green fronds. You should make a dress out of it!, she declares.

I said, Are you kidding? That doesn't look like me at all! We debated, she won and I bought the fabric.

This morning I started another B4914 Maggy London dress.

As the morning passed and I could see it coming together, I started to get more enthusiastic. I started wondering what shoes I could wear it with.... (black leather Borns in the pics)

Needless to say, she was right. I love this dress. I am afraid it looks very fallish and here it is mid February! I am NEVER in season!! Here it is front and back.

And a close up of the front, the wrap and pleats give even me a little cleavage!

A Little Black Dress!

I have been wanting to make this Maggy London dress for awhile. I got the perfect fabric, a lovely slinky knit from Gorgeous Fabrics that just demanded to be this dress. I made a sleeveless version, keeping in line with the idea of a little black dress, that and I ran out of fabric before I got to the sleeves! I love the shirred waistline, its' bumps and gathers hide mine!
Other than the gathering for the shirring, I sewed this completely on my new CoverPro 1000. I love that machine!

Of course, now that it is finished, I realize I do NOT have shoes to go with it!!!

Happy Birthday Britt!!!!

2009-02-20T17:39:00.000-08:00

My DD2 wanted a Chocolate Motherlode Cake like they make at Claim Jumpers. 6 layers of chocolate deliciousness surrounded by a to die for fudgy frosting. It tooks me hours to bake, then again to assemble and frost! It was Sooooooo Good!

A good time was had by all!!! I made her take the leftover cake home....didn't want that sitting around MY house!

Vogue 1086

2009-02-15T08:22:00.000-08:00

I bought this beautiful dress pattern the last time JoAnns had a Vogue pattern sale..... I keep checking PR to see if anyone has reviewed it yet! I love being able to read about others experiences, and suggestions before I dive into a new untried pattern. Does anyone else out there have this pattern in the wings?

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2009-02-15T08:15:00.000-08:00

For Valentines Day, my husband and I spent the entire day together, planned our menu and then went shopping to make our dinner. We had King Crab, Rib Eye steak, fresh aspargus, baked new potatoes. Drawn butter with garlic & lemon for the crab. He roasted red bell peppers and pine nuts and made a wonderful sauce for our steaks. It was divine! For dessert, fresh strawberries and blueberries on fresh baked shortcakes with fresh made whipped cream. Mmmm mmmm. I love that man!

My Flirt jeans are done!

2009-02-09T21:14:00.000-08:00

My fave jeans, The Flirt by Old Navy are shall we say... shrinking.

I decided to attempt to copy them and make my own Flirt jeans.
Here are My Flirt jeans !!

I think they turned out pretty good! The amount of topstitching on a pair of jeans is unbelievable! I love how the pocket details turned out.

To celebrate... I made cupcakes!!!! This one is for my sister. She just recently started sewing and all sewers need a cupcake! Shh.... don't tell her, it is a surprise!

On a side note..... It still hasn't quit snowing!! Hey Grandma, recognize that adorable hat?

RTW Jeans

2009-02-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

I have a fave pair of jeans. The fit is perfect and they are comfortable. I decided to use them for a pattern, of course, I couldn't take them apart as there is nothing wrong with them. I took a TNT pants pattern as my base and then retraced it to incorporate the changes in the RTW, lower waist, especially in front, scoop jean pockets in front, patch pockets in back and slimmer fitting legs all the way down. I worked on them ALL day yesterday. I can't believe how long it takes to get the details - the topstitching on the pockets, fly, coin pocket... it all is so time consuming and yet while I am doing it... It is making me happy! Right now they are awaiting a final fitting on the outer leg and the waistband is not attached...I still have to make the belt loops... Lots to do! I think they are going to be pretty close to the RTW pair.... We shall see.

Fridays!!

2009-02-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

I just love Fridays! They are so full of possibility, the whole weekend ahead of you! My sewing dreams / fantasies have no time limit when viewed from Friday night. My sewing mojo came back. I do not even know why it left! A few nights ago, I had the whole evening to myself and had great sewing plans, I was going to whip out my new B5283 top. By the time I had traced out the pattern, I had NO DESIRE to sew it! How does that happen? Luckily it came back. It struck this afternoon while I was at work. I could not wait to get home! While out to breakfast the other day, I was noticing how cute this woman's top was, it was a simple T, but the sleeves ended in these cute ruffles. I thought.... I could so sew that!!! So I did. 2 hours. S4706 view C for the body. B5283 for the sleeves. I made the sleeves half length and then added a 3" ruffle. I used my NEW CP1000 to hem it and to topstitch the neckline and ruffles. I love that thing!! But I really need lots of practice!! I have a really hard time sewing straight with it. I think the top turned out pretty cute.....Now, if my husband would come home..... I could wear it out to dinner!

DD in S3538 !

2009-02-03T16:46:00.000-08:00

The jacket is ALMOST as adorable as she is!!
She decided no closures, so she left it here so I
can add my label, and then it is done!!!!
DD2 is next, she wants one in brown corduroy,
no ruffle and a peter pan collar.

I have also gone a little bag crazy! They offer such instant gratification, got to sew a few between projects!

The one with a jeans pocket is called a subway purse, if you loop the long handle under the short, it becomes pick pocket proof. (-: The rest are just my variations of a small hobo bag, all made from scrap materials.

2009-01-31T11:47:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 3538 altered to copy Fiona J Crew jacket. Made this for my DD Ash. I haven't made closures yet, she is coming over tonight, I will let her decide.... This is my second stab at this jacket and it gets easier each time. (-: One more to go, my other DD Britt wants one in corduroy...

60.2 miles down!
739.8 miles to go!
Rock On!

PF Changs 2009 Half Marathon! We survived!

2009-01-21T20:01:00.000-08:00

This was my DD and my third year running the PF Chang's Half Marathon, it was just the two of us....and 21,000+ other runners trekking along for 13.1 miles of fun!!

Was a lot of fun, and a lot of work.... We both have to tweak our training plans so as not to peak by 10 miles and then finish more slowly than we would like to.... Have to do some training schedule research.....

Don't we look Happy? Relieved?

49.1 miles down, 750.9 miles to go!

Rock On!

4 Month Hiatus....

2009-01-07T20:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!

My, I can't believe how time flies when you are busy. (-: I can't believe I haven't blogged in 4 months. I find time to follow those I enjoy but yet didn't make time to update mine. hmmmm..... I wonder if that means that I find others lives more interesting than mine?

'Tis a New Year. My only resolution this year.... to become healthier in mind, body and spirit..... and run 800 miles. Only made 685 last year. I think I can squeeze in a few more if I stay motivated!!

First run of the year is 1/18. PF Chang's Rock and Roll Half Marathon. 13.1 miles of fun, sun, run and bands all along the way. My DD and I are running it together again this year.

Santa was very good to me..... Janome CP 1000 is what he brought me. I love it. Have been studying the CP1000 thread (293 pages of incredible information) on the Pattern Review message board for quite a while and wishing.......

My binder, hem and centerguide foot arrived in the mail today, can't wait to try them out. The foot that came on the machine makes it very hard to 'see' what you are doing as it is solid metal. The center guide foot can double as a clear foot as well, that should make matching up stitches much easier. So far all I have used it for is the top stitching on a pair of Vogue 1053 pants I made.

I altered the back to have a yoke

and faux tab pockets. Makes the 'real estate' appear smaller. (-:

The top is Jalie 2805 in a wonderful knit from Georgeous Fabrics, that was my New Year's celebration shirt.

Haven't done a review on them yet.... another thing to add to the list.

For anyone that actually stops by and reads my ramblings, I wish you Healthy and Happy New Year. Sew On!

5 Year Wedding Anniversary!!

2008-09-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our 5 year wedding Anninversary. I am married to my best friend. We met 11 years ago next month and we have been married for 5. I love him more every day. He took me to dinner at the Cottage Place. A little restaurant that is just as quaint and romantic as it's name sounds. He proposed to me there. It was a wonderful day.

Poncho, our giant Yorkshire Terrier, was also excited as you can see.

I just love Jalie, this is the 2804 top. This is what I wore to dinner. Pairs great with the skirt I refashioned out of a dress I picked up at a yard sale for $1!

Welcome to the family Henry!

2008-09-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

My DD Ashley just adopted Henry. Isn't he just precious?

He will be getting a new sister some time tomorrow so he will have a playmate while his new mom is at work.

Home Again!

2008-08-31T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am home again! Yeah!! Two weeks is a long time to be away from home. My DH took care of everything wonderfully. Even my plants did not suffer my absence. Love that guy. (-:

2 Weeks without sewing is ..... tortureous. I did a lot of on-line shopping. Order some Jalie patterns and fabrics from Gorgeous Fabrics.... they were waiting for me when I got home! I was so excited that I made my first Jalie. #2788, twist top with puffed sleeves. I love it. Fit and cut is very similar to the Simplicity twist top 4706.

Climb the Mountain to Conquer Cancer

2008-08-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Climb the Mountain to raise funds for the American Cancer S0ciety. My DD Britt and I did the climb, (along with 4,000 other motivated trekkers!) The climb is 7 miles up Sanfrancisco Peaks. We completed that running and walking and then decided to do the same back down instead of riding the shuttle busses. Was a lot of fun and boy am I tired! After a nap, we headed out to JoAnnes! Picked up 7 new Simplicity patterns (sale $1 each) 4076 and 4077 I am very excited to try. There are so many great reviews of both on Pattern Review. Unfortunately I am traveling for work for the next 2 weeks so..... NO SEWING! I might have withdrawls. (-: Will have to supplement with extra running.