adventures in baby-sewing

LION BRAND YARN - Amazing is...

2011-07-12T20:26:00.001-07:00

AMAZING. I got some recently in a fabric.com order and love it. Wool blend, with heathery colors blended so it stripes for you - wow. I just ordered some more... almost every color as I am making crocheted lacy scarves for Christmas craft sale booths.

I am so out of touch with sewing right now

2011-06-25T19:04:00.000-07:00

I have had a hard time getting to the machine lately. You bloggers are so busy at your sewing and I haven't touched the machine to speak of in weeks. 4 kids home for summer, work out side the home everyday for 4-5 hours per day plus helping my husband with his invoices, in and out of the house and car, library trips, store, bible schools, etc, in 100 degree weather are taking a toll on me. I am exhausted in the evenings. Plus child #2, the handicapped one, had day surgery, so I have had to keep up with him healing. Hopefully some sewing will happen soon.

On the other hand, tomorrow is our oldest's 10th birthday - 10 years ago tonight we got the call for our baby being born and to head up to Dallas to meet her (she's adopted). We had a party for her today. We also celebrated our 20th anniversary this month.

No sewing

2011-05-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

Just cakes, about 12 so far this month, many are half-sheets, so I have been busy. I am grateful as it is good income for the work. But baking a few cakes on Fridays and decorating most of the days on Saturdays, then church on Sundays leaves me a bit worn out for a few days afterwards, plus all the school stuff, work on Mondays, Tuesdays, doesn't leave much more than Wednesdays and Thursdays to recoup and regroup before beginning again on Fridays. The laundry is piling up... I think it reproduces on its own if I leave it too long... Hopefully I will be sewing again soon.

Better Late than Never - Easter Dresses

2011-05-13T13:19:00.000-07:00

OK, here are the dresses. The older one's was Simplicity 3329, no date, probably late 1950's or early 1960's. There is no reference to in on the internet to link a photo and I am not in a position to photograph it right now. The dress picture is actually copied from facebook from Easter. It goes into a v-backed neck and should have a bow at the CB which I left off. The little one's was a 1940's mail order pinafore style, not even sure where the pattern is at the moment. Both are from cotton voile pindotted swiss with broadcloth accents/binding. Both are fully lined. I completed the older one's over 3 days of working and the inside is barely finished off, as quickly as I could do it. She would only wear it once or twice anyways, so I decided not to waste much time on it. The little one's is better finished as she still wears dresses at the drop of the hat. These were fun to make, I wish I had more of the fabric for a top for me. It is so watercolor-pretty.

Two New Patterns in the shop

2011-05-06T18:23:00.001-07:00

Actually there are a few more, some maxi dresses as well, but these two are to die for, I think. I bought the Simplicity 7384 back before I knew much about fitting, notice it is way smaller than my size. It's just not worth the trouble for me. The Butterick is closer, but I really don't think I will ever get to it. So they are up for sale, to find new homes, to be loved by someone else. I also have an awesome Gunne Sax pattern listed as well as two Simplicity Designer fashions, one that has been seen on the net before. I really need to cut my pattern stash down, please help me.

May Coupon

2011-05-03T10:48:00.000-07:00

15% off $20.00 total sale - 20DOLLARS15PERCENT

New Coupon Code

2011-04-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

10% at LadybugDuds - coupon code SPRINGSALE - until April 30.

Easter sale

2011-04-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Etsy shop has a 15% off sale - EASTER is the code - off all things listed. I will run it until Monday morning. I also want to boost my followers, so if you haven't yet, follow my blog, like Ladybug Duds on Facebook (both at the right), leave me a comment or two and I will think about a giveaway for after the holiday weekend from your comments showing what you have done to follow/like. I need to review things to giveaway and I will post something later today.

One Easter Dress Down making it another Vintage Dress done

2011-04-20T15:55:00.000-07:00

I have finished little girl's dress, except for a sash, which I need to go in Friday to town for groceries and will get more purple broadcloth at Hancocks. It was a mail order vintage pattern, big pinafore style ruffles set into princess seams. Princess seams for a little princess. I will photograph all later. On to the older girl's dress, which is still in partial pieces - bodice is about done, skirt not yet. She will also need more of the purple for her sash. Bias binding ate up most of what I had bought. Remember the aqua floral I posted earlier. That's the main fabric. As far as mine, no further progress and I was contemplating another that was in progress out of a dusty darker blue linen blend. It's a mix of my Christmas bodice (vintage) and a flared knee length skirt from another vintage pattern. We will see...

Vogue 8511 #2

2011-04-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Almost became a UFO, but I jumped back into it so I can wear it Easter Sunday. I substituted sleeves for cap sleeves from another pattern. It works, but should have removed some of the ease. This was a straight 18 I cut and had to take in all princess seams (good news) and I think the skirt may be a bit wide, but I will decide that before I hem if it needs some pegging or slimming. I did baste the back seam in and basted the waist seam and decided it will work with a small side zip only so I can close the back up entirely (I hate back zips on me, they always wave in the swayback area). It's Pontederoma knit, so it gives enough to slide it on with the side zip. I had a hard time finding a dark purple back zip and only had small ones on hand, so this is good news. I will need to find a dull metallic belt as I plan on using my dull metallic short-heeled slides if I don't find something else this weekend. I also have two girls dresses to work on - nothing like waiting until the last minute.

Dress Up Capes

2011-04-13T05:01:00.000-07:00

This is a cute blog for pattern for kids doing a giveaway:
http://www.thedressupdrawer.blogspot.com/

New patterns in the etsy shop

2011-04-06T12:58:00.000-07:00

I need to work on Easter, but instead

2011-03-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

made a dress for H. It is out of stashed broadcloth, the poly-cotton type that ends up washing out soft and is pretty wrinkle-free out of the dryer, like men's shirts can be. I think the cloth came from a garage/estate sale. Buttons from stash, vintage, from the thrift shop. She picked them out, liked the duckies with headcloths on. Snaps at the back neck, french seams, handmade bias tape arm and neck openings, slipstiched on the inside. Sometimes the bias "waves" sometimes not, I may have twisted it a bit in sewing it down. I used Butterick 4176 in size 3. I loved this pattern for my oldest daughter, so I bought the little sizes in a Hancock's 99 cent sale. It's a keeper/TNT for me. I plan on a few more dresses as I have time for her, she loves them and I love making them out of fabric that needs no/little ironing. I also made bloomers for underneath.

Fabric Purchases and Work in Progress

2011-03-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

First up we have girls Easter dress fabric, lining and trim fabric. A swiss dot voile in a floral with lining in the lightblue and trim in purple. This I shopped for today after getting Fabric.com's lawn that had 4" flowers, not suitable for a little girl.
This is the littlest one's outfit top in progress, I hope to finish later this week.

A cute cotton I bought today off the 2.95 table, I love those hexagons.

This is a sale linen-look fabric, drapey, tan and black.

All in all, pretty good pickings at Hancock's today. Now to get the pipe under the house fixed... It was spraying water along the underside of the house and there's a little lake under there. These pipes are old and probably just corroded.

AWOL

2011-02-26T17:02:00.000-08:00

I have been awol - absent without leave - for some time. I had lost the desire to work on anything. After I had the flu in January, I had fatigue and aches for weeks. I finally am feeling better. The other thing is I have had a custom onesie and diaper cover to finish and hadn't, been putting it off. Ann of Gorgeous Things addressed sewing for others this week on her blog. If it's something I create and decide to sell, great. Custom things bog me down. I don't know why. Then I can't sew at all, so I am going to be very choosy in the future about taking orders. I am almost finished, which is good. I can give it to her tomorrow at church. Then I am free for my Monday, which is child-free, the oldest 3 in school and the little one at her mothers' day out. Hopefully, my inspiration is returning and I can get back to creating and finishing UFO's. I want to restock the etsy shop - with the things I want to make.

Beautiful 30's crochet booklet for sale

2011-02-15T15:37:00.000-08:00

More pictures in the listing for these beauties - see link in right sidebar to the etsy listing. No real sewing, I had a cake to make for the local nursing home's February birthdays and worked contract today.

Awesome 30s pattern for sale

2011-02-14T10:24:00.001-08:00

This pattern is up for sale - Bust 36, late 30's, at a good price in my etsy shop, LadybugDuds. I desperately need to destash what I will not sew, everything priced reasonably to sell. Get it while it's hot!

Perfect for those sewing challenges of "through the decades".

New Patterns in Etsy Store

2011-02-08T18:49:00.000-08:00

Check them out in the little showcase on the right side, there are about 20 listed right now, a variety of sizes and styles.

Long awaited photos of the vintage jumper

2011-02-07T17:49:00.000-08:00

First a custom made crochet hook organizer ordered at a craft show

For the baby's jumper - navy blue baby cord with a lining and trim from cotton, Dena Designs, bought at the LQS, Seams Like Home. I also have covered buttons from a vintage kit and vintage lace on the hem.

Vogue 8511 #1

2011-01-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

I do not know how well you can see this - I need batteries for the camera, so this is from a cell phone, an older cell phone at that. I have the major parts sewn but not together as a dress to try on, front bodice princess seams, back bodice princess seams, front skirt piece with pleats, back with darts and lower CB sewn. These pieces are only pinned together on the form in case more adjustments are needed. I have not yet tried anything on. The bodice appears big on the form, may need to recompare the Simplicity lines to this one and pull in a bit. I think I had to tweak the Simplicity for the upper chest - I am 39 in the bust (that's why I like the vintage patterns in half-sizes) and short, so I went with the 40 (size 18). I am broad in the back, this form needs some surgery to make her more like me, I do not have a large full bust, just broad. I like the lines, the pleats on the skirt, especially in the ponte knit. I am adding sleeves, but have cut them to above the elbow, I think. I shortened them on the adjustment line. I do not wear sleeves below the elbow well. I will add a black stretch belt (see the Christmas dress photos) and black heels. What do you think?

Up next

2011-01-23T18:52:00.000-08:00

Vogue 8511 in purple ponte de roma, the softer version. I need a new dress for a sweetheart gala in town on the 5th of February. It mimics the Simplicity I have made before without a midriff and this has a pleated tulip shaped skirt. I even overlaid the pattern pieces and the bodice is very similar. Should be fun...

I need a new pattern like a hole in the head but

2011-01-14T19:57:00.001-08:00

I scored this anyways. The way it works, bid on things when you have less money to spend, and I think I won't win, and I do. Isn't a beauty?

Still here

2011-01-13T15:18:00.001-08:00

Nothing new, life has been in the way of sewing much, the quilt is being pieced in sections. I have Vogue 8511 in mind for an upcoming benefit we are planning on attending in purple ponte de roma knit. I really like that pattern and I couldn't find a bad review of it, the pieces for the princess bodice virtually match the Simplicity 2473 I made two versions of last year, so I think it will work fine for me. Being ponte, I will still use a zipper, but the hems can be machine made and seam finishes simple, speeding up the construction. I also have a vintage jumper for little girl on the ironing board already cut out, waiting on me and some time. Please let me get some soon :)

New Year, Fresh Start Quilt Top #2

2011-01-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

The status of the top as it is on my kitchen wall - I use a piece of flannel that has a nylon backside for a "design wall". It's tacked up there. I have played with the pieces since yesterday, now the strips need to be sewn into blocks in groups of 4 showing 16 little sqaures. The large beige blocks are to be embellished with antique or vintage laces, doilies, eyelet, linen. I will work on it more tonight, soup needs to be started for dinner.

Household things

2011-01-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

On a different note, I read the post about frugal pantry cooking on the Life as Mom blog. She had a link to USDA's charts on what grocery bills should be. For a family of 6, thrifty method, we should spend about $639.65 per month, give or take. Wow, many months we don't even spend that, when I am really careful, plan ahead, shop the sales. The "liberal" plan was much higher, over $1000/month - I cannot even fathom spending that on groceries, unless we bought lots of snacks, gourmet, etc. Any thoughts? See for yourself http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/FoodPlans/2010/CostofFoodNov10.pdf

1/1/11 - A new year, a fresh start

2011-01-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

The title of a new quilt I am working on - made from various Moda fabrics, mostly found in the local quilt shop's scrap bin for free, scraps of my own that coordinate and a few fats I bought. I also plan on adding a few blocks that are enhanced by vintage laces from some salvaged doilies given to me by Hayley's godparents. Hence the name, a fresh start, a new lease on life for some vintage pieces almost 100 years old. I am also working on cleaning house bit by bit, so I work for an hour, sew for an hour, approximately. It's a simple design, based on Moda's Bake Shop pattern Wild Rose Postage Stamp Quilt. Most of my jelly roll pieces come from the bin at Seams Like Home here in town, from Blackbird Designs' Harvest Home, some marbley solids, subtle polka dots. I took most of the day yesterday planning the block sets, walking away and standing back. I am seriously considering making quilts for sale, one a month, so if I stick with it, who knows? I had a great time on the craft show circuit last month, so I plan on building that up to participate in more this year, all year.

As far as a sewing recap, don't look for one, I did not do a good job of documentation and I am discarding as much of 2010 as possible as it was a bad year for us financially/business-wise - we had each other to bear it out and worked together, but we both want to move on and work on streamlining ourselves this year, focus on building his business back to what it was in 2007-2008, and focus on the kids. I will still blog alot to stay motivated, maybe this year we will surpass our goals.

So have a happy New Year and enjoy your fresh start!

The Mojo is on Vacation

2010-12-29T18:21:00.000-08:00

I haven't sewn a stitch since Dec 23, after completing the dresses. After 6 weeks of intense craft show sewing and 3 dresses, I am tired and need to reorganize the sewing room and the house. So, hopefully, I will photograph some of the projects and share them here soon. Otherwise, I am planning and plotting, reorganizing, purging and trying not to lose the shreds of sanity with 4 kids home from school.

2010-12-28T13:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas dresses for the girls - the oldest's is a blend of 2 McCalls patterns and the youngest's from an OOP McCalls that is 60's style A line with two bows at the end of the shoulder pleats. I used black velvet and red shantung texture backed satin.

Vintage Sew Along for 2011

2010-12-22T05:06:00.000-08:00

See the picture at the side? I am actually entering a sew along - we'll see how we do.

Miss Muslin at http://missmuslin.blogspot.com is hosting it with the minimal rules and details.

Finished dress photos

2010-12-13T06:41:00.000-08:00

A photo of my husband, Mike and myself in the finished vintage 1950 dress. I hate digital photos, I am convinced I did not look so "wide" at home in the mirror. That's why I rarely put a photo of myself, I use the dressform instead.

The dress was comfortable and fit fine, no complaints, some compliments from our friends and my husband.

Progress on my dress for Sunday

2010-12-10T18:09:00.000-08:00

Photos of my almost complete Christmas dress from S3237 from 1950, can be seen in the Vintage Pattern wikipedia http://vintagepatterns.wikia.com/wiki/Simplicity_3237
since my copy's envelope is in awful shape. It's modeled after the blue one, but I chose a drapey woven, bought a few years ago, it may be rayon blend, has slight stretch, with superimposed "flocked" abstract flowers. You can see where I chose to embellish the central bodice with gunmetal shade bugle and seed beads, following the flower lines. I bought a stretch elastic belt in black, the only one I could find, so hopefully it works. I have some high pumps with a mary jane strap, so hopefully it will all work. I lined the bodice with the anti-cling poly stuff from Hancocks, handsewing the two together at the waist seam. I had to take a stab at easing it in at the gathers since I opted not to do running stitches on it, thought it might be too thin to do it. All I lack is the zipper and hem.

Silent but busy

2010-12-10T06:10:00.000-08:00

I have been sewing alot lately. I had booths in two craft shows, table runners, crayon rolls, other items. Did pretty well, too, for church related shows. I am now finishing my holiday dress from a vintage Simplicity and attempting to make a little wrap from a McCalls pattern with the free HP wrap on Fabric.com as its inspiration for the opening/drape. Not really sure about it at this point. We have a K of C dinner this weekend so I got to finish tomorrow. Next up, holiday dresses for the girls. The baby is easy, just a straight size 2 overall, but she is thin and long waisted. Her height is 36", she has a B to W of 10" and needs a 15" skirt to fall under the knees. In comparison, the oldest at 9 is 54" tall, needs a B to W of 13", I think (the paper I wrote on is in the kitchen). So I will post more later - we're going Christmas shopping this morning while the kids are in school :)

Wedding Gift Table Runner

2010-11-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

Made primarily from an older Thimbleberries stash acquired last year from Ebay and backed with new fabric from my local shop, Seams Like Home, based on a design of Jacob's Ladder from one of the quilting magazines. Machine quilted by walking foot, that was the most challenging part. That's my 2nd attempt at machine quilting - I need to work on smoothing out before basting a little better. This was a wedding gift, designed by looking at their registries for color suggestions.

Halloween Costume #2

2010-11-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

Halloween Costume #2 based on a late 40's Simplicity 1507, shortened to fit the little toddler's body, using a jester collar, lots of bias tape and bells on some of the points. I loved it and she looked so cute waddling around on Sunday.

Halloween Costume #1

2010-10-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

Costume #1 finished from vintage Simplicity 7162, modified to wear to school. I made the top from the pattern, stopping at the waist. I then made her TNT pants, adding about 2" on each side seam and elasticating the ankle for ruffles. I couldn't see her going to the bathroom in a one piece. I substituted those cute flower buttons for the pompons.
Hayley's is up next.

McCalls 8718 - Toddler Dress

2010-10-25T16:57:00.000-07:00

I made View A, for the littlest one, in a size 1, in a sandwashed twill that was sitting in the UFO pile. I trimmed it in a leopard cotton print and lace from my mother's stash, about as old as me and the pattern, 1967. Went together nicely, but the collar curls up a bit. She rocked the look with her tights, bloomers and new shoes!

Bratling, oh Bratling, where art thou???

2010-10-22T15:42:00.001-07:00

You won my giveaway - I need your address...

I won a quilt pattern from Stacey!

2010-10-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

This is such a pretty pattern and a lift to my day! I cannot wait to try at least a lap size version. This fall, I have lots of quiltmaking and sewing on the books, I hope. WTH, with 4 kids, who am I kidding? I am pleased to get a copy of it.

My pieces did not win in the quilt show, that's ok, there were some beautiful ones there and some so-so. I still like to enter - a good way to let people know you sew and sometimes you get work out of it.

Yesterday was the youngest son's 6th birthday, Philip. No pictures due to privacy, but he and I went to Western Days for a celebratory snow cone, a mommy and son trip. He is a trip - a scarily smart little boy.

Granny Hex Shrug completed

2010-10-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

I have finally completed the Granny Hex shrug from an internet pattern. Basically you make two large hexagons with crocheted granny stitches (double crocheted), fold each into L shapes, seam up the center back and across sleeve/shoulders for a kimono sleeved open short jacket. I used Lion Brand Jiffy for a bulky yarn - it's acrylic, soft and airy, in a dark purple mist. You finish it all with single crochet on the arms, bottom and around front opening/neck.

Maple Sugar Hearts Wallhanging

2010-10-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

I started this over a year ago - had the machine and fused applique done, machine quilting on the border done, most of the binding done. I just finished the hand quilting around the hearts so I can enter it in the local quilt show at the town festival. It is 100% complete, binding, hanger on back, everything.
It is based on a pattern in the mini-quilt book Bits and Pieces, but I made the colors seem like cherries and chocolate, using Thimbleberries and other Civil War era prints.

Winner of the free pattern...

2010-10-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

Is Bratling - please send your info to me at myrayeretsky at sbcglobal dot net.

Reminder for Simplicity pajama pattern giveaway

2010-10-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ends Sunday night, 10 pm CST, US only...

Simplicity 6685 pajamas and Giveaway

2010-10-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

I pulled out vintage 1970's S6685 for the little girl and some vintage seersicker/plisse my mom had given me this weekend. I had just enough for the pajamas. It went together in a couple of hours, with handsewing the binding and making it from some cotton. I even bound the hem of the pants and opted for no wrist elastic. I cut out red gingham to work on a 2nd pair tonight.

Somehow, I have 3 copies of this pattern, all size 1. I am keeping one, giving one to a sewing friend who has a little girl a year younger than mine and doing a giveaway for the 3rd. Post for a chance and become a follower on the sidebar while you are at it for a 2nd chance. We are not sophisticated over here, so if you are entering a 2nd time for becoming a follower, please tell me in the comments. I will draw Sunday evening and post on Monday, Oct 11.

Giveaways

2010-10-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

Stacey's place : http://luv2knit-luv2knit.blogspot.com/ is having a giveaway. That's all for now - btw she's a wonderful quilter :)

New Etsy Listings

2010-09-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

Links to new etsy listings for a a-line shift dress pattern from the 60's and for handmade bias tape are in the sidebox for the etsy shop.

A busy Sunday

2010-09-27T06:32:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we were in Houston for the Cowboys/Texans game - lots of fun in one day, since we went to the game, visited with family and went to dinner at my favorite restaurant, Carabbas on Kirby. The kids were with a sitter back home, so we had a rare date day. Mike's brother is a drummer on the Texans band, so we had free tickets, it was a great experience.

The patchwork skirt I made for little girl is done, but would not fit over her hips, so modification is needed. The pattern is on Moda Bake shop as little girl's patchwork skirt, but I had to use jelly strips rather than charms.

We came home to fall winds and woke up to fall temps :)

Mid week post

2010-09-22T06:16:00.000-07:00

Not a great title, but what the heck!
I had an allergic reaction to something this week - so I was miserable on Monday - but I worked on a patchwork strip skirt for the little girl - All I have left is the waistband. I also have cut out several crayon rolls for the annual Christmas craft show. I will rent a booth again this year, I have several ideas and saw what sold, so I will choose accordingly. I am working on the granny hex shrug I found on another blog, I am going in to town today for more yarn. I love Lion Brand Jiffy, inexpensive with a brushed mohair feel. Hopefully more later...

TNT B3070 brown top

2010-09-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Excuse the mess, but we have a new top from B3070 my TNT modified shirt pattern from the 80's. I used a stashed brown knit crepe from Fabric.com, about 2 yrs old and made the freestyle ruffle from a mesh knit remnant from Hancock's. I made a strip the length of the fabric, pinked and ruffled it and added scattered gold and tan beads for effect. A most comfortable everyday shirt, by the way. I wore it twice this week already - in fact I was wearing it when I took this photo, took it off to put it on the dressform for a photo then put it back on.

September 11

2010-09-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

Image taken from a website on Google titled Twin Towers

May God watch over us, 9 years later...

Ebay Listings

2010-09-07T11:50:00.001-07:00

Some recent items I have listed on ebay, including a half-sized pair of sewing patterns, bust 35. Seller ID is ceecees_mom.

Friday Night Lights

2010-09-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

The oldest and daddy are at High School football game, baby asleep, boys are about to go to bed, so maybe a bit of sewing/cutting out time??? I hope so. I haven't sewn all week since we did some furniture moving - I try to sew in the dining room, but the furniture is dark for the room, so we flipped the rooms and moved the dark table, chairs and hutch to the sunnier breakfast room and sent the white tile top breakfast room table to the "sewing room" former dining room. I am also moving dressers around to get one into my sewing area for fabric storage. Maybe I will be brave and take some photos soon.

Threads Magazine

2010-08-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

I got it today with the outer cover proclaiming it's my last issue. I am on the fence about renewing it - it's $33 for 6 issues, a lot of repetitive topics if you have received them for a few years. I have trimmed all magazines out, finishing out their terms. Burda WOF lost me early last year, too much trouble to trace. Sew News is now so "crafty", like McCalls Crafty line. I considered Sew Beautiful, the Martha Pullin magazine, but on the fence about it. I would rather buy a single issue at Hastings if I like the projects. I even cut out Vogue Patterns - I can see from the website and blogs the ideas that are current. I cut the quilting mags a year ago. It's just too much to keep up with! What are your thoughts on all these magazines?

And as a side note - I also let PR subscription go - I did not see the benefit of paying for it when I can research current patterns easily for free via blogs.

End of Summer

2010-08-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

I have many items cut out and in various stages, but cannot get motivated to finish them, or correct them. I am cleaning the sewing room instead, which is so overgrown with fabric, UFO's, patterns, etc. I will not finish today, but trying to get to the bottom of the cutting table at a minimum. I have so many patterns in disarray, out of their envelopes, pieces and scraps lying about. My husband has been patient, since it is the dining room, he passes through it to get to the office, but I am taking advantage of the kids outside in the sprinkler to get a dent into it. Wish me luck, they may have to send a search party after me.

Summer is almost over, in name only

2010-08-11T18:29:00.000-07:00

Previously promised pictures of items made for the littlest one:
Vintage Butterick 3667 from the 60's in the watermelon print
Vintage Butterick 3688 from the 70's in the turquoise dot plisse

With temps around 100 degrees, South Texas will be hot long after school starts on Aug 23. I have sewing to do, but get sidetracked constantly.

I did take the kids to see the snakes at the library today. My handicapped son loved having them to touch. I thought he would be scared. None of them were.

I love reading the blogs, seeing how many of you northerners are preparing for fall. We won't see fall until maybe October, we have some years of Thanksgiving in shorts. Our worst months are January and February for the cold - it's usually wet and chills to the bone.

More later...

Win Some Lose Some

2010-08-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

Won the 30's Butterick (happy dance!) at price higher than I really wanted to go for my budget, but it is close to my size and perfect since it is fairly plain and adaptable for today, lost the 40's Advance for the 2nd time, a one piece pattern to be made from tubular jersey knit. If anyone has it and wants to sell it, please let me know. It's one of those gotta have and I have only seen it twice.

For sale on Ebay right now

2010-08-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200503249090&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT for the 40's pattern

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200503780916&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT for the 50's pattern

Sorry about not actually having a link - apparently my settings are such it won't work or operator error (more likely)

It's too hot

2010-08-03T12:09:00.000-07:00

Somedays I feel like this squirrel that lies in our pecan tree out front...

I cannot believe it has been a month

2010-07-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

since my last post. I have been super-busy, work, kids out of school, library, etc., etc. I have sewn and finished some things. I have to get the time to take the photos and post them, though. A few for the little girl, vintage patterns, one for me, a 60s shift dress I wore on Sunday. I feel like the hamster running in circles...

I also have school tops cut out for the oldest and one more set for the little girl. The poor boys don't get much, but you can't beat Walmart tshirts and shorts for the price. It's the girls that have a harder time finding clothes.

Maybe I can get time for photos before the weekend...

Fathers Day

2010-06-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

It was spent at my parents home and here. Fried chicken for lunch. I am tired after a week of bible schools and work. I have so much housework to do and don't even know where to start. We have A/C so that's not a problem, but it is 92 outside and it wore me out earlier today in the car, sun in the face.

Do any of you revisit 80's patterns? Some of you think they are anathema, but the 80's were my teen and early 20's, so I love the time. I am not in love with MC Hammer pants, but loved Cavarricci's, regular harem pants, cap sleeved blouses with some shoulder pads, etc. The 80's were the previous decades revisited, with excessive treatment sometimes. I see 20's (dropped waist), 40's (cap sleeves), 50's (fluffy petticoat skirts), western wear (ruffled skirts and western tops with conch belts). I am thinking of a cap sleeved top now with batwing sleeves. A fascination of mine, I guess.

What 80's patterns have you looked at recently and why?

A tag question post and we're still hot

2010-06-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

The a/c guy has the part, he's in another town on a repair and will hopefully be here soon, it's 5:48 right now and 91 deg in my house, so keep the fingers crossed...

I am biting on the tag question from Katie www.katiekadiddlehopper.blogspot.com

1. Which pattern/vintage style have you been thinking the most about lately?
Vintage 40's blouses, but I am too hot to sew right now :)

2. What's the one place that you want to visit that you've never been before?
Europe, such as Italy, England, Ireland, Scotland, Spain, any and all...

3. How do you relax?
Sew, read, crochet, watch NCIS or In Plain Sight, Deadliest Catch or History Channel

4. What is your favorite holiday?
I don't know, all are good.

5. What is one sewing skill you want to learn/try out?
Making a jacket, coat, but I cannot get enough time.

6. Can you knit? crochet? other crafting talents?
Crochet, cross stitch, decorate cakes

7. What garment/accessory do you wear the most?
My TNT tops and my wrap dress

8. How much time do you spend reading blogs? (per day or week)
Too much instead of actually sewing, maybe an hour over the course of the day, 5 min here and there.

Eight others should pick up this tag, you pick...

And we're broilin' over here

2010-06-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

No a/c again, this time it's the outside unit fan motor, should be fixed tomorrow. However, the heat index was past 100 degrees today and the house is almost 90 degrees. I am so hot...

Not much sewing, working all this week contract labor in a friend's office, so hopefully I will get some done this weekend with the air on...

Two BWOF Mags on ebay

2010-06-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Two BWOF's 7/2008 and 9/2008, intact and clean, on ebay
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200482480217&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200482480458&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Bid away!

Another set of patterns for sale on ebay

2010-06-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

is set #2 for sale, also 34 bust sized
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200481641492&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Our 19th Anniversary

2010-06-08T19:57:00.001-07:00

Today is our 19th anniversary, we were so young (23) then. And hope we have many more together, my dear husband.

Patterns listed on ebay, need to destash as much as possible

2010-06-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200481307706&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT is the link
All are Bust 34, 1940's fashions, good condition. I hope you hurry on over and bid if they work for you!

UPDATE - SOLD TODAY :)

Another pillowcase dress

2010-06-04T18:46:00.001-07:00

Little one got a pillowcase dress, bloomers and bow with Sponge Bob fabric, she's happy. When she saw it, she started pulling her clothes off to put the dress on. She's happy, I'm happy.

Wow I am on a Roll

2010-05-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Cut out, sewed and finished pajama shorts for my oldest son today in an hour. That is a record for me, considering the interruptions. Made from 1/2 yd or so remnant of race car cotton, simple elastic waist in a basic pant pattern, about a size 3 (he is that skinny at 6), but lengthened some for him. He's happy, I'm happy.

I have other things to work on, but needed a quick finish to get some confidence. I have been thinking about the back wrap dress and like the ideas given, just need some time to finish, but have had Hayley home sick, and not really feeling great myself. Actually, I may remuslin the upper dress with a FBA adjustment and enlarging the sleeve like the previous owner did just to see if that is what is really needed. When I get a moment to actually concentrate...

Vintage Simplicity Apron and Bloomers 1953

2010-05-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

I inherited a large box of vintage patterns from a friend, this included. Lots of kids patterns from the 40's and 50's were in there. This was a size 2 and she really could have used a 1. The neck is a bit large and the bloomers were huge as shorts, so I elasticated the legs, too. Also, the front apron pockets weighted the front down, so I would probably just make it as a top next time. I was too lazy to do the thread loops for the back buttons, so I used elastic thread. It's too stretchy, so I will probably substitute snaps to help close the neck a bit more. I do think it's a great playsuit pattern for my little girl and may make it again, but it's so bit, it will probably be usable next summer, too. She liked it, but was ready for a nap, so she was not a willing model.

Giveaway

2010-05-24T06:52:00.000-07:00

http://bitterbettyindustries.blogspot.com/ has a giveaway for an Rowenta iron.

Need help

2010-05-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, working slowly on the wrap dress below. The dress itself seems fine, except for needing to adjust the shoulders near the neck, basically flattening the shoulder. This is customary for me. It's the set in sleeves that are beating me up. I can not get enough ease to pull them up right on the shoulders. I have been checking the books, it seems there is not enough ease and recommends spreading the pattern up the center. I have only one piece left about the size of a fat quarter. If you were me, would you cut and spread and add a gusset/insert in the center and act like it should have been there? Please help!

OK, I am a procrastinator

2010-05-09T16:59:00.001-07:00

I was checking out my blog past posts and realized I have this month to do the pay it forward I had promised. I had a year to do it. Let's see what we can come up with soon.

Simplicity 8827 Back Wrap Dress

2010-05-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, I had previously shown this pattern and plans for it using coral linen and underlining it. This dress is now underway. After being sick, I had only managed the basting of the linen to the underlining. I do not have enough for shaped facings and nothing on hand that I liked. I have made continuous bias from the linen and plan on that instead. The sleeves use the hem lace. I have the sleeves put together waiting for hems, I have the shoulder seams and darts done. I have one side seam done. Around the kids today, that is a lot of progress. Clearly, it will not be done for tomorrow. I did v-neck the front neck, but may round that out some, the original was a pretty high neckline as are many vintage patterns. I will put lingerie straps to help keep it in place. I did check the fit today and it seems pretty good, considering I did add to the waist area and reduce the waist darts and lower/shorten the side bust darts. Funny, I should have enlarged the sleeve/bicep a bit. The previous owner must have had my figure as she also had markings of enlarging the waist and hips and biceps. When I enlarged the waist, I should have listened to her. Hopefully, I will get more done tomorrow or Monday. I was worried that the light muslin would make the dress too heavy, but it seems more stable than linen alone. The shoulders are done with the underlining SA wrapping the linen SA, like a HK finish. Forget that for the side seams, they are zigzagged together on each side of the seam, trimmed and pressed open. I am not ironing and wrapping all that much.

Not much progress

2010-05-06T16:51:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last two days very sick with allergies and the ensuing bronchitis. I have the coral linen cut out and underlined, that is as far as I have gotten. I did not go to Mass tonight, but hope to get it done by Mother's Day. Who knows, I have done about 6 loads of laundry trying to catch up. I need some thread for the dress, no coral thread in the house and the local quilt shop only carries cotton thread. I do not like it for garment sewing, I prefer the regular C&C poly wrapped thread. Maybe a trip into town is in order for tomorrow morning so I can get some at Walmart.

Me Made May

2010-05-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

Although not participating officially, I have been making a conscious effort to wear my handmade things. On the first, I wore a green shirt made two years ago. I know why it doesn't look good now. It needs a swayback adjustment, empire bodice lengthening and it makes me look pregnant. On the second, I wore all RTW. On the third, the NL top I made last fall, in black floral from Gorgeous Fabrics. Today, the green and black knit crepe top I made two summers ago. Now this was before I knew about stabilizing knits, but it still is a great, relaxed top. Tomorrow, who knows. Thursday evening, maybe my wrap dress when we go up to church. After that, unknowns.

I have basted the underlining and linen together for the Simplicity back wrap dress pattern featured a few posts back. I am taking things as they come, I have one free day a week and having terrible allergy symptoms lately. On top of that, I was cutting a serrano pepper for the pinto beans. You know what comes next, pepper in the face. I washed up, but guess I had some of the residue under my nails. The effects are all along the front of my face, adding to the burning I already felt in my sinuses. I do want to get the dress done for mothers day, but if not, oh well.

New Patterns in shop

2010-04-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/45440187/vintage-pattern-mail-order-9205-bust-42

Just listed along with some others...

Refashioning an old shirt possibilities

2010-04-23T06:17:00.001-07:00

I was rereading an older post by Gertie (you all know who she is) about refashioning. This has been an item I debate back and forth, refashioning. My opinion is refashions should look as good as an originally sewn item from new cloth, not just to do it for refashion's sake.

A few ideas for men or women's shirts, say out of broadcloth or cottons, could be:
1. a muslin
2. baby clothes
3. an older child's shirt
4. A man's to a woman's shirt if there is enough yardage to make it work
5. My new fave - make bias tape out of the back of a shirt. Imagine how cool that would be out of a plaid for a quilt or facings.
6. A woman's camisole - think pintucked or lacy out of a white shirt

Post some of yours, I am curious to see what transpires.

Edited to add:

I just got an email about McCall's Summer line. What a rehashing of previous styles! Nothing really inspiring to me, so I guess that's a good thing, nothing out there to buy. Infact everything seems really casual, caftans, sundresses, etc. and lots of costumes.

Pattern Shopping

2010-04-22T17:23:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love this one? The purple one is what I envision, maybe in purple or maybe in a coral linen. I received it today in the mail off ebay. At a 38B, seems to be ok on top, just need to add on the sides, CF and reduce darts to enlarge the waist. I bought 5 yds of lightweight preshrunk muslin today, I am muslining it as soon as I get a chance, use it for the lining if I use linen. I will underline it rather than face it. It is really a cute one.

I also have some 1940 ones on their way. I have been pattern surfing for bargains.

I will be inspired soon, no A/C in the house is a killer in Texas when you are used to it. It is on target to be fixed tomorrow. No A/C since Saturday evening :( The natives are restless... :0

Saturday aftermath

2010-04-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

Well, the taxes were out on time, we had no power yesterday due to the thunder and lightning, so I have no real progress on Sunday Dress #2, which is pink cotton and pink printed lawn. This was also inspired by the Handmade Dress blog, but is my interpretation as a dress. She used batiste and a Liberty Target scarf for a layered effect on the skirt and top, her indie patterns that are so cute. Mine is from a vintage dress pattern but a narrower gathered skirt. No sewing yet today as the kids are wild. Probably not until Monday at this rate.

I have been considering some future things for the store, may start on some things this week, skirts, maybe an apron or two.

Of course, my sewing ADD may strike and nothing gets done.

Almost Tax Day

2010-04-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I finally bought my Turbo Tax basic today, have the numbers about ready to plug in and review the damage. I *detest* tax time. I am not going to get further into it, then I would be getting into politics, which I rarely do here.

That is why I choose to sew, quilt, etc. I need a creative outlet for the stress, vent to you guys and girls about life, somewhat. I don't buy clothes very often for us, just what I am not willing to make. I make tops, PJ's, skirts, dresses, things to sell, refashion, whatever I get time to do.

Now, on a happier note, while buying aforesaid Turbo Tax, I also picked up two Simplicity "simple" patterns from the $2 racks at WalMart plus some $2/yd knits. They weren't bad. One is red with black and the other brown with cream and pink polka dots. I also got a yard of green gingham, two button cards, red thread. I have also ordered a used copy from alibris on ebay the Coffin Shirtmaking book. I am trying my hand at shirts for Mike this summer.

Sunday Dress #1 for the oldest

2010-04-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

McCall's 5616, bought either last summer or summer before, for the oldest. I wanted her to have a big girl-styled dress without being too grown-up. Used a cotton for the body and black broadcloth for yoke and hem band. Made size 10. Only thing is I am having a heck of a time with zippers right now, shifting. I had to put this in twice. I did lapped as it was white and there are so many colors involved. It called for 16", but it only made it to the bottom of the yoke, so I stopped it there and have only closed the yoke back with hook and eye. Her hair is long, no one will notice. I hope it fits, it should as I just used a McCalls 10 for Easter. I never tried it on her after I put the bodice together. My mistake. She got some cute slides in white last night that should work well with this. If it fits her well, I may make another one in plisse or seersucker. She needs 3 summer dresses for church so that she can rotate them. I never make more than that - they will never get worn that much, so it is a waste to me to go crazy and make more than three.

Parting shot of some flowers in my front yard, wild verbena and bluebonnets, Knock-out roses with the metal vulture looking on...

A cool yarn source

2010-04-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

http://www.knitivity.com/
Check out this guy's yarn. I saw this on another blog, Eema-le, and loved the firefly, that's the kids' school colors. When I have some money in the budget, I am getting some for scarves.

A corporate decision was made

2010-04-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not corporate, just liked the saying... I have decided to use a RTW dress that was my oldest's, used once for photos. It's a sweet pink with white collar and balloon appliques on the collar. I have too much noise and stress with the kids home to concentrate, I will finish it for the May crowning at church and they can wear them together then. I also went shopping, found me a dress for $23 on sale at Bealls, ITY knit in red, very similar to the Perfect Knit Dress by McCalls 5974, the short sleeved one, but it has a knotted insert around the neckline. Originally $68, which I never would have paid that price, it's not that special, but it fits and looks usable for any number of occasions. I also got shoes and a new purse, the old warbag needs retiring. I lack the hand finishing on the oldest's dress, but plan to get it done tonight. If I do not post again, have a Happy Easter, fun with the kids, etc.

We have one dress about done

2010-04-01T11:57:00.001-07:00

The oldest's dress is complete except for handsewing lining some inside to the seam allowances and to the zipper. The zipper is in, thank you very much, without too much issue. Just clean-up. I still had everything in pieces on Monday afternoon, so most has been done over the past few days, with a 2 year old into EVERYTHING. I had one sick all last week with tonsillitis, so not much was done at all. The youngest's dress has a ways to go, it's similar, but slight differences, same fabrics. White pique on the bodice, white broadcloth sash and bodice lining, green cotton eyelet with broadcloth lining on the skirt and a front inset band of pique under eyelet. Bodice is hand embroidered and has a hand stitched ribbon bow appliqued onto the pique. This was a big job for me, so I am happy I am this far. Now back to the baby's dress... I am staying away from the computer so I can get done :).

Saturday sewing

2010-03-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

Worked on the Advance dress' skirt today, played with the pleating in the front and decided on the pattern's way, but instructions were confusing. I have hand-basting on the top to do, before sewing it. The skirt lacks the side seams. I am being careful as I don't have a backup plan, little excess fabric. French seams on the skirt make it more authentic, in my opinion. I have to work on the girls' tomorrow. One bodice is about done for embroidery, another needs to be traced and done, then assembly can begin. I started something new, rather than drifting about the house during the baby's nap, I set the oven timer for one hour. I got the work on the skirt done during that hour, including playing with the pleats. I plan on another timer session after the kids go to bed. I also need to prewash the broadcloth for the girls' linings.

Don't forget the Daylight Savings time change so you are not late for anything tomorrow...

Saturday sewing

2010-03-06T18:31:00.000-08:00

Been sewing on S2473, version 2, in Black Sophia Double knit, short sleeves, variations on the faux tie at the midriff, flared skirt made about 2" longer. I am using a floral chiffon overlay in black, blue and tan on the midriff, ties from the chiffon and made longer, and bias bound the neckline in the chiffon backed with fusible knit interfacing in black to make it easier to handle. I am trying to make a LBD that is not so dramatic/dark, more daytime and spring-like. I cut it out a month ago, started sewing yesterday, have the skirt finished, the top together, now am handsewing the binding down on the inside. Still need to do the sleeve hems (in the bias binding?) and finish the midriff/attach the whole thing together. I need a black dress for this week, my aunt passed away Friday, she was 80, my dad's oldest sister. They found her down in the kitchen. Her funeral is Wednesday in Houston. I am hoping to go and need something to wear, but don't want it to be dowdy. I should be able to finish. Also have Easter dresses cut out, and somewhat started. Mine is an Advance from 1945, navy Sophia for the top and a faille-like broadcloth for the skirt, floral with navy background. The girls are also cut out, but I need to find my white broadcloth for the linings. It is here, somewhere...

Listed in Etsy-red bandanna

2010-03-04T12:44:00.000-08:00

Newly listed for sale, cute red bandanna set. Here is the link http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=41998677

So much brewing in this head of mine

2010-02-26T16:04:00.000-08:00

I have been plotting Easter dresses out, inspired by the bodice on an heirloom dress I saw on The Handmade Dress, but getting the right combination has been hard. That was an infant dress and I have a 2 year old and an 8 year old to work with. I have chosen white pique, a gift from Lory of the Diary of L, for the bodice and green/white eyelet for the skirt, bought from the Fabric and Notions Yahoo Group. I tried a lavender lace tape for the bodice embroidery background, not right, so I found a matching green and white gingham grosgrain today at Walmart, and think it looks better, so I need to remove the lavender. The concept is a lace/ribbon bow tacked down with embroidered flowers/vines entwined. I have about 5 weeks to get this done, we will see. I am starting with the oldest's since the baby always has something in the clothes storage to wear of hand-me-downs that are like new. I even have a brightly colored dress that would work in a pinch to match this green. (I think I still have it!) I am also purging more vintage patterns I will never have time to make, so more will continue to make their way into the etsy shop. Many are larger bust sizes, too. I have some shirt dresses and mod looks.

Have a good weekend.

New skirt in Etsy store

2010-02-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

You can see in the sidebar the link for the skirt I added for sale. Blogger won't upload the photo. I made this some time back and never wore it. I didn't have anything I liked to wear with it and it was a bit large for me. By then I had finished it and didn't feel like unripping, so I am offering it for sale.

Yesterday, the baby and I were both feeling down, but I spent some time adjusting pants for her. She has short legs and lots of sets that the pants were too long, so I added elastic to the hems so they will stay up better, like warmups, but a little looser. Included in those were her favorite SpongeBob pajamas from Christmas. She was excited to finally wear them. Mending is not a favorite task so it tends to build up.

It is a sunny cold day, sun is good, it may inspire me to finish something.

Some more patterns listed

2010-02-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

This time a few half sizes B35, a 1960's hat pattern, a 1939 Advance and a mail order version of a walkaway.

More patterns listed

2010-02-08T11:05:00.000-08:00

Have a few more patterns, some small sizes, some more recent Vogues in the 14-16-18 range. I am being very critical in the 80-90's patterns, things that are still attractive or mimic today's trends or are classics/basics.

I also hope some of you give some thought to a quilting bee. I would definitely be interested.

A picture of the broken dishes little quilt:

A giveaway announcement

2010-02-08T05:50:00.000-08:00

Cultivating Home has a book giveaway at
http://cultivatinghome.blogspot.com/

I have been curious about...

2010-02-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

Quilting bees. I have been checking out some on the internet. The only thing is many of them is that many revolve around the more modern approach of "wonky" blocks, which is fine, but not me. I like traditional, repro feedsack or civil war era fabrics. I like traditional blocks. What I am curious about is how many of you that read my blog are interested in something like that?

A definition of a virtual bee from Oh Fransson blog:

Virtual quilting bees take the collaborative aspect of a traditional quilting bee and put it to work over distance, using the Postal Service and the Internet.

Most virtual quilting bees have 12 members and take place over one calendar year, with each member being responsible for coordinating one month. In advance of the month, the member whose turn it is prepares packages of fabric and instructions to send to each of the other participants. The other participants then create one or more blocks, which are returned to the sender. After receiving all of the blocks, the member whose month it is should have enough blocks for an entire quilt. This is repeated, over a year, until all members have had a turn. There are lots of ways you can vary/personalize the process, but most virtual bees follow this basic structure.
Now she also mentions that postage is a consideration. Being in the US, I would probably want to stick to my country, no offense, but the postage would be outrageous for me. Is this of any interest to any of you? If so, leave me a comment, maybe we could form a small one, maybe 6 members for every other month or 10 for the remaining months of 2010. I think it could be fun, so give it some thought.

I have acquired a huge lot (like 10 boxes) of older patterns, mostly 1980-90, so my etsy shop will be including the best of those. I am looking for designers, classic lines, or things that are hot now. I will not inundate the shop with them, but rather post a few here and there. I will also list a few more vintage 40/50/60 from my stash as I could never sew them all...

I am sewing...

2010-02-03T18:40:00.000-08:00

despite my having been sick now Mike is sick. I have begun hand quilting the Broken Dishes wallhanging. I am about 1/2 done with the interior blocks. I was going to machine quilt it but got cold feet. I wanted a primitive look with those wonderful colors.

I have shelved the McCall blouse for a few days, need to work out some fit issues, it about fits, but not quite. I think in the double knit it will work but the woven, it's a bit confining. That could be me, though, as I wear mostly knit tops.

I am constructing a NL jumper, bought the pattern at the thrift store for 10 cents, from 1995. Actually quite cute with princess lines on the bodice and an A-line skirt, which I lengthened about 4 inches. I am not used to above the knee skirts. I can always trim it later. I am using a bargain table microfiber from Hancocks, in a grey. I have the skirt about done.

On another note, last night my oldest was saying her prayers and the baby echoed "Amen." Then they both started giggling. Tonight, my oldest son, with cerebral palsy, asked to sleep on his back on a pillow (he usually sleeps on his stomach curled up) with his teddy bear, like a big boy. So sweet, he can be.

Good night, ya'll.

And the patterns are flying...

2010-02-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

out the door. I have sold 7 patterns between Saturday and today, and continue to add more in small batches. With 4 kids, I can only be at the computer so long. The housework and cooking and laundry is enough to keep 3 people busy around here. I added a 50's pattern today, and have another 2 to add, these are larger bust sizes, 38 and 40. I am also handquilting in spurts today. I will take a photo this evening of the wall hanging made from scraps from the Dresden plate blocks. Thanks to Little Hunting Creek for directing Peter to the shop, and anyone else who has helped me out by purchasing or promoting. I love you bloggers, so supportive!

Ladybug Duds now has vintage patterns

2010-01-30T07:21:00.001-08:00

I have been listing vintage patterns from my stash (recently acquired locally) for sale at my Ladybug Duds etsy shop. I need to trim it down, expenses are really tight right now in the midst of winter slow-down for trucking. So, I am sharing them now. I have listed many really low to sell, the most expensive is 4.99. I have about 12 more to list today. If you are looking for something in particular, I can see if it is my stash and willing to part. I may be acquiring a larger amount via our local resale shop that is retiring. They are mostly 80's and 90's, but actually some good basic skirts and jackets that are not too 80's. Some of them are larger sizes, too.

Thanks, Katie (Kadiddlehopper), for supporting me!

McCalls 2818

2010-01-23T12:28:00.000-08:00

Ok, so far so good, the pattern muslin seemed to fit as a straight 18, taking the larger hip sewing line. I did add to the pattern 2" to the overall length so the top will hit lower on the hip. I have the front and back together and sewn at the shoulders, one sleeve put in flat with the million pins method, which works well, by um way. I had one small pucker, which was quickly ripped and re-eased, very nice method as shown by Ann and Summerset. I think they do theirs in the round, but I chose to sew it in flat construction to "see" the curves and pins better. Then, like knits, will sew the sides in one swoop. I have a small slit marked on the back to make the opening, won't cut until I am ready. So far, this pattern may work very well with some Sophia rayon double knit. I chose a poly blend linen look from Hancock which I have 5 yards of to make version 1. There is plenty left over for a dress, skirt or whatever I may choose, trust me. I couldn't cut into that $10/yd knit that I only have a 1.5 yds until I saw it totally worked up. I paid almost nothing for the linen look stuff, and have plenty to waste. If it fits in a woven, it will fit in a stable knit. Good philosophy, right?

I may get more done or may not, we have a 2 year old birthday girl tomorrow, Hayley turns 2 & have a house to clean and ice cream cake to make.

Under the weather

2010-01-22T16:31:00.000-08:00

I have a headache that is on day #2. I have been plugging away at the dresden plate blocks and am finishing the machine applique on the last one tonight. Next, squaring up and trimming, then I can hand them over to the lady next door who is putting them together for Barbara, the lady who asked me to make it. It will be out of my hands. :)

I have some UFO's to finish as well as work on the McCall blouse and black Simplicity dress. My question to you for more expert advice, on the blouse, since I am closing the back seam up with only a small neck opening and one button, what about the back facing? The original had you make a duplicate of the center sections from the princess portions. My gut is to ditch the front facing as well and make self-fabric bias binding and turn it to the inside, like vintage patterns have you do and also use that on the back opening or use it like regular bias binding as the edge. Anything else would be too obvious, I think. I need suggestions, please.

I love sewing garments and will need to beef up my wardrobe soon as many of my clothes are OLD and getting worn. I am also itching to make quilt blocks, too. My focus may be scattered this year. My goal is to work on some of the UFO's. especially those that weren't "right" and make them work. Wish me luck that the headache dissipates soon.

Marching into January

2010-01-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

I have started the new year out slowly, working on B's quilt (has it really been a little over a year since I started, procrastination is bad) but she finally paid me for the fabric so I need to finish and will be soon.

I have also bought M 2818 an older Palmer Pletsch pattern to make a basic shell top. Now I abhor blouses that are buttoned up the back, so I read reviews of it and may amend it to one button at the top of the nack in back. I muslined it and found I needed to lengthen it a bit for personal taste. I also have another Simplicity 2473 in black sophia double knit cut out. That's all I am cutting out for now since I have UFO's into infinity to finish (well, maybe I am exaggerating a bit, but there are alot).

Good Riddance 2009

2009-12-31T11:06:00.000-08:00

Now I think this has been one of the hardest years of our lives, not sure why. I spent alot of the year fighting acid reflux, brought on by nerves, I guess, since it was a very rough financial year for us. 2009 saw a lot of people we knew pass on, too, family and friends, and some were very quick from diagnosis to death. That also contributed to my outlook. Despite it all, I have 4 very smart kids, who are too ingenious for their own well-beings, and that also contributes to my frustration. But I wouldn't trade them for the world.

Now that past, our 2010 horoscopes, which I half believe, some is coincidence, are good on outlooks, so maybe we'll see some reward for our efforts made in 2009. Let's hope & pray...

On the sewing front, I had goals set a year ago:
1. Work on better fitting of clothes for me. - I have learned some fitting skills from books and magazines, made a discovery that princess cut bodices can be my friend, and I look better in semi-fitted items that are out of a stable knit.
2. Make about 1/2 of the clothes for the girls. - Well, I tried, but it was hard to get a lot finished. I did make some Jalie tops for my oldest and some other items for the baby, so it's progress.
3. Make a 40's vintage dress and finish the brown one. - There again, I tried, but never got there. The brown 40's dress needs some redoing, so we'll see...
4. Try a 50's or 60's dress (step outside the box). - There again, I tried, but ran up against what doesn't flatter me (50's), but with my December discovery of princess seams, I have some 60's dresses that could be tried in 2010.
5. A real challenge, a 30's pattern. - Never got there, but do think that is a real possibility.
6. Learn how to serge better and master more functions on my Bernina. - Marginal improvement
7. Bound buttonholes/a lightweight jacket or short coat using them. - Made the HP jacket, but no boundbuttonholes.
8. Finish some ufo's and use them or give them away as presents (kids clothes) - Did finish a few but not enough to make an impact.
9. Become more organized in the home and in sewing. - Not really

Finished garments are listed on the sidebar. I have not totalled them yet.
Edited for totals: Mine: 1 dress, 9 tops, 2 skirts, 1 jacket
Kids: 1 dress, 8 tops, 9 pants/bottoms, 2 costumes
Shop/craft sale: 19 items
total 52 items sewn = 1/week on average

For 2010:
1. Basic LBD
2. Another S2473 or other princess bodiced dress
3. Make a few basic skirts
4. Try a jacket
5. Incorporate boundbuttonhole or other techniques
6. Enter a PR contest this year

These are attainable, I hope. Let's hope 2010 is a better year for us all!

The aftermath of Christmas

2009-12-26T13:48:00.000-08:00

We got through it all, my birthday is also past, now I feel like a cold is coming on. I have turned to quilt blocks for today. I am discouraged by the debacle of the dresses, when that happens, I turn to quiltmaking or something else for a bit. Hopefully, I will feel better tomorrow.