two lilacs

Christmas projects

2010-12-18T15:58:00.000-06:00

DH is building a dress up storage rack, as seen on Ana White's blog. We added the shelf on top, so it can hold dress up crowns.... It's built and ready for paint. We're doing purple, plus whatever I find to use for the lettering.
He is also building an 18" doll bed, similar to the one linked from Ana's blog, MADE: Pieces for Reese. We are changing it a little to be a canopy bed like one at the AG store. At least she won't care. Dd liked that one compared to the others on their site. So, I'm going to dig in my stash and see what kind of trims I can find for it tonight.
I'm thinking we might do the red toy box for ds, because he might feel left out... or the chair with the storage in the bottom... then he can keep a few school supplies in his room for homework time, or just because.
I'll post some pics, when it's all painted.

woooooohhoo

2010-09-22T23:42:00.000-05:00

I'm excited. I'm finally upgrading my computer to Leopard, not snow leopard, just reg. leopard. I've finally gotten irritated enough to not have firefox and some internet things not working right anymore, that I'm upgrading.

Dear Sis is having her baby any day now, and we're all excited for them.
I can wait for October to roll around the corner.... all the birthdays are coming, except mine, which is ok. Thank god the kids aren't turning 16! DS, to be 7, has proclaimed that he is bored of old toys, and would like new toys. So, he's been advised to look for things to get rid of. Dd just really needs somewhere convenient to put things away. I haven't configured just the right set up yet. A big basket by the door is probably the best answer since she seems to leave everything in the doorway. LOL. Aye. Dh's birthday is coming too. Haven't decided on anything yet, but would like to surprise him. Dying his cadillac shirt blue would probably be good since it's been sitting around waiting. =)

Sewing to do's for the week: Finish a winter hat for a birthday gift, work on baby nephew's halloween wrap shirt.... and trace some other things on the make list.

Too hot to weed, I should be sewing

2010-08-30T16:16:00.001-05:00

I tried to weed today, the breeze is nice, but it's gotten hotter throughout the day. By the time I got outside, it was 85 degrees....

so I guess that little girl quilt in planning should move along to the cutting stage. I'm planning to make two small, not quite toddler, not quite twin size quilts. One is for my daughter, and the other for my niece. I'm using a small mix of pink and girly fabrics with a bit of green to throw off all the sweetness. I have a lil' princess prints, some Patty Young prints, Sandi Henderson, and I think one or two others.

I was hoping to make a nice lightweight throw, so it could be an all year quilt blankie. I'm still not sure what I want inside and on the back. I'm going to browse etsy to see what there is for bias binding, otherwise, I guess I'll be cutting into something. I wonder if flannel would be okay... except I might prewash it at least once. I don't mind the whole thing shrinking up some, but not tons. I'll have to take a look at who has batting on sale.

If I can get that cut and off my table, I could work on some tops for me from the new issue of Ottobre Woman. There are several items I really could see myself wearing.

hmmm....

Sewing for myself, and If I had my own labels

2010-07-11T23:48:00.001-05:00

I've traced my pattern, scratched out several attempted adjustment lines, and finally did it the easy way and took the length off the bottom. The neckline binding is one that you sew on and then carefully fold under and over..... and if I had garment tags for clothes for me, they would say -- Woo Hoo!
Of course, I haven't done the arm bindings yet, but the neck looks FAB! compared to other projects I've made. And FAB! is my favorite word lately, don't know why.
Will add photo, when finished.
*Added*

The summer garden

2010-07-07T15:57:00.002-05:00

perennial mosaic, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

There are so many things in bloom right now. It seems that everything is so early with the weather this year. I have finally taken the opportunity to do one of the things I love—take close up photos of my favorites and fiddle with my camera.
This may be the summer I get some of my better shots framed, since all the photos on my walls were taken down last fall for painting, it's pretty sparse. A little cropping, adjusting and sent off to Sam's or somewhere.
Since I have been sewing more, I also feel like the house should show more of our character, so I'm hoping to incorporate more crafty ideas as opposed to mostly store bought decorations. I can never decide anyways, so it's just as well. A few things floating around my head, are quilting hoops or frames with fabric hung on a wall, quilted or applique pillows for the sofas, family history pics, esp. a childhood similarity collage of us and our kids. My son and my husband are almost identical in their toddler photos.
Other than that, it is just randomness. We are definitely in summer mode here, no set daily plans. Today, we headed off to goodwill to look for a pot for dyeing fabric, no luck there, but I found a few tops. We went to a park next, new to us, and it was so peaceful. A huge open grassy field, with a playground just up from the beach, and a spray ground we will try another day.

Heart swim suit, trial no.1

2010-06-27T16:55:00.001-05:00

Heart suit 2pc-1.JPG, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

My first swimsuit! It was easier to sew the fabric than I thought. I love stretching elastic, I just wish it loved me better sometimes....
This is a size 92/3T for my daughter. She was in need of a suit that fit her height a little better.
I am not in love with making ruffles, but this wasn't too bad. I changed to a fresh need to sew the stitches to make the gathers. I gathered the front and back separately to avoid popping a thread.
The flat parts of the elastic where they are sewn together gave me a big 'ole flat spot on the leg back, so I probably should have moved them towards the front.
I loved the fabric as soon as I saw it, it's from fabric.com, last year though.

I had to laugh while making the bottoms, because without elastic they are nearly big enough to be women's unmentionables.

I have a LOT of projects on my want to do list. But, I really need some tops, and my daughter really needs some shorts. My son seems to be doing ok for clothes this summer, but he could still benefit from a few things.

After or in between some of that, is a blanket for my son. I got some cute cars fabric, and a layer of warm & white. I'm hoping to quilt the top myself, but have only made a doll quilt once. But, I like to just jump in, so I'm sure I'll manage.

I would really like to see how Anna Maria Horner uses that giant hoop to do her quilting. If I start in the center and move out, I suppose you'd have to be careful not to hoop over any stitching. It seems more carefree than getting out a room size frame.

All for now.

Happy day

2010-03-03T22:07:00.000-06:00

Today turned out great. Lots of phone calls and some nice mail on my birthday. My sister called first and wished me happy birthday, and I returned the favor since today is her's too... but we're not twins, we're 10 years apart, her being the youngest.
We actually made up plans over the last few days, so it felt like a really fun packed day today. Ds went to school this morning, and when he got home we headed over to a Japanese grocery. That was all kinds of fun! I've never been there before, and had actually been looking for something like this a few months ago, without much luck. Anyways, the kids picked out some tasty candies. We've been sampling most of the day, from strawberry chocolate lollipops that smell heavenly to these tiny, chewy fruity gummy candies, and ds had some Thomas, chocolate umbrella pops. A few had stickers, so we'll play with those tomorrow. I am having ds keep a daily journal now to help him continue with learning to write and spell, and put a drawing with it. So, maybe he'll want to use his Thomas stickers for it.

I got the winter issue of Cotton friend, and there are some cute women's shirts, and kids smocks. I saw a slipper pattern when I was flipping too. I'm still working my way through it. I hope I can try a shirt for me, but we'll see how it goes.

    My box came from Atlanta thread, and it was colorful! Lots of beautiful serger thread. And, there was an envelope from Wooly thread in the mail. I was hoping my two free back issues came, but it was some wool scraps I ordered during their sale. I got a few sheets and a scrap back. I am going to see how I like wool felt for barrettes, opposed to the cheap felt from JA's & walmart. I know my friend's daughter wears hers in the pool so I'll have to see how these might hold up. I'm thinking chlorine would not do nice things to the wool.
    We played a bit in the snow this afternoon too. I figured I'd better let them get out there before it's all gone. There was just enough left of our sledding track to make it all the way down the yard. The rest of the yard is getting patchy. Ds was playing around the tree and got startled by a bunny who must be living under the branches. I've been noticing a bunny trail several mornings through the snow. I guess now I know where he's hiding out. He's sharing the tree with the cardinals.
    And to finish off the day, we went to dinner at a local favorite. The kids had breakfast and I had dinner, and then we all had dessert. I drove home exhausted, and a food coma to top it off. Whew.
So now I'm outta here. I'm going to get in a relaxing drink and plop on the couch for a bit before I hit the hay.

4 way split

2010-01-15T12:06:00.007-06:00

So, today, I am thinking about Jeannine, Teri, Melissa and Beki. I have a random list of things I want to do today, or get started this weekend. So, I hope my brain will cooperate help me plan it out.
I am hoping Jeannine and her kids are feeling well. We just started coming down with something yesterday. The only plus I can say about it, is that we all seem to be getting it at once, instead of it slowly going from one person to the next. Although, I may change my mind in a day or two.
Secondly, I'm thinking how awesome it would be to have a sewing table like Teri. I did not realize how many more Expedit pieces there are, and it seems like the prices have reduced, too. Hmm.... So, while I'd love to run right out, I'll have to save and plan, and maybe clean in the meantime. It's funny because I was just thinking yesterday, how it hurts my back to hunch over my current table. Also, how great it would be to tuck storage under my table. I currently have a kitchen table, extended, and my machines spread on one side, and cutting room on the other. My serger is closest to the cutting space, and it's in the way. I've been thinking about moving it, to be behind my main sewing machine.
Third, I am hungry, and Melissa has posted a great looking loaf of bread on her blog, that is a 5 minute deal. I put the book on hold at the library right after I read it. She posted a link to a recipe for it, so if I have enough flour, I may take a crack at it this weekend. My dh might fall over if he sees me touch the stove. LOL.
Fourth, I've been scouring craigslist and some of the resale shops for some furniture. Beki has repainted her daughter's bed turquoise, and I just love it. My little girl is outgrowing her cute , vintage dressers, so I either have to revamp her closet, or find her something new, to us. Her room is granny apple green, so turqoise, or periwinkle blue, or something vibrant would look lovely. I found an awesome buffet, but I really need to go up, not out, her room is small. There have been some interesting child height wardrobes, but I am thinking the bigger the drawers, the better. I guess we'll see.
Lastly, I have some sewing to do this weekend. I need to look for a woven top pattern, in Ottobre, to make my daughter a shirt. I got her some cute Dora fabric at Hobby Lobby yesterday. I am thinking there was a sleeveless tunic, that tied on one side. I'd like it to have a lining or extra layer of fabric, but I guess I'll see what I find. I also need to work on a gift for our neighbor's daughter. She's turning 4 at the end of the month. So, I have plenty on my mind.

The Handmade Dress Patterns GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-11-15T20:05:00.000-06:00

The Handmade Dress Patterns GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

The shoe container

2009-10-28T18:06:00.002-05:00

Sorry no pic. got some weird hits on flickr.
The shoe container, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

Who says your child has to have a bed to sleep in? This is my daughters shoe bin, that we slide under her dresser. Today she must have had a grand time playing before she decided to retire to the shoe box, pillow, blankie and all. She's even ready to go with the fancy shoes when she wakes up. Oh girl!
My son use to sleep on the floor, I can't even count how long, but somewhere around 2 1/2 until this past year. He turned 6 two weeks ago and is thankfully sleeping on his bed now. I used to put him back in his bed when he was little, but then I figured if he slept all night, then it was fine. There is no point waking him if he's perfectly happy to lay there. I can't even sleep on the floor with a sleeping bag without a sore back. Kids are so crazy sometimes, and flexible.
On the subject of beds, I am hoping to make the kids some new blankets. They each have several blankets, and it makes bedtime interesting when they have all but one. So, one blanket will be made out of flurr, and I'm hoping to back it with something. I have to find the knit stabilizer before I do that one. Then, I want to make each of them some sort of quilted blanket, something simple, with large blocks.
I checked on my son last night and found he had pulled my childhood blanket out of his closet. It's a fond memory having my blanket still around and being loved. The top is all sorts of faux fur from the late 70s or early 80s. I think it would be considered fur. I like all the texture, and think I will incorporate some of that idea into the kids new blankets. I'm thinking some woven prints, with some corduroy, lightweight velvet, and am still thinking about other touchy/feely fabrics. Any suggestions?

Made by Rae Jackpack Backpack GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-09-09T19:29:00.000-05:00

Made by Rae Jackpack Backpack GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

life lately

2009-08-13T14:44:00.002-05:00

This is an old quilt top my great grandmother made. I picked it out of a handful of others to attempt to finish, so my grandma can have a new blanket for her new space. My uncle has been in the process of remodeling her house. She's getting a new bedroom upstairs, new large bathroom, walk in closet, and a lovely upper deck, which has a great view of the setting sun.
The downstairs became part of the project after a storm blew off some of the roof tarp. Thankfully, she has been in Arizona the whole time this has been going on, but is coming home soon.
She has always wanted a porch off the front of her house, and now she has one. I'd like to find her some nice hanging baskets, if they are even available now.
I also have a school supply list to finish up, only one more week to get that done. This week would be optimal, since I have help, but I'm pretty much limited to today, since we have weekend plans. Ugh. Never enough time & motivation. I have accomplished some laundry today, and took the baby crib out of dd's bedroom. She has been sleeping on a twin mattress for 2 or 3 weeks, successfully now. Kind of sad, but she has lots going on, and is adapting well. We are almost at a month of being diaper free during the day. She has been taking naps w/o the diaper, and only wearing one at night now. She has really embraced much of it on her own.
And lastly, I got a nice bit of sewing completed while I was on vacation. I worked on a pair of baby pants for our cousin (who had a girl Monday), finished some unders for dd, and almost finished my top.

Training pants for dd

2009-07-03T14:53:00.002-05:00

Otto4-04-girlsundies_21.JPG, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

I did my best to hack an Ottobre pattern for little girls undies into a pair of training pants for dd. It's from 4/04, pattern #34, size 86. Despite some of the sewing flaws, I think they came out pretty useable for now. Love the fabrics. The stretchy pink was a small challenge, but I kept at it, and adjusted my foot pressure to be looser or tighter as needed.
If anyone would be interested in my hack, I'd be happy to put together a quick pdf. And clicking on the photo will take you to the rest of the images.
It took me about two nights (tv sidetracked), and a few 15 minutes here and there to trace and redraw the pattern, cut the fabrics, hem and haw about doing the binding, sitting down and sewing like a speed demon so I didn't lose momentum.... until I ran out of bobbin thread in one of the legs.... no worries though, I had a spare bobbin of a close enough color. They are only undies.
For some reason, my darling daughter refused to participate in any fittings... so I finally wrangled her into them before I bound the waist. The fit is snug getting on, but wearable... next time, I should use a bias cut, or more stretchy fabric as the padding. I am wondering how warm & natural or maybe some bamboo (fleece?) would be. As far as adding stretch elsewhere, I might add a bit more fabric across the width of the hip piece.
I am hoping that the training will be short, and she'll be going on the potty sooner vs. later. She really is pretty good about it, just needs consistency from me. I have not pushed her, but she's probably been ready for training for a couple months. I didn't really want to do it in the winter time, and now that it's summer, I'll be seizing the moment.
I really miss my baby though...

Weekend sewing gift

2009-06-16T22:08:00.004-05:00

HR-WkndSwng_20090612_003.JPG, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

Here is a tiny little baby shirt I made with Heather Ross' kimono pattern. It came out pretty cute. Our cousin is having a baby in August, and they will find out then if they have a boy or a girl. I was going to make a changing table cover, but decided to make this top, and some burp cloths. I use a little bit of a couple fabrics and it was a lot of fun.
I thought the Hungry caterpillar fabric would be cute since they were asking everyone to bring a book for the baby. Of course, I didn't buy that book, but she did receive it from someone else. Anyways, I only had a fat quarter of that fabric, so I used white for the sleeves and back. I think this was a good choice, so that it didn't end up being to busy of a design. I cut the red dot fabric on the bias, and made 1/4" bias tape. Oh boy, that's much smaller when you're actually making it. I'm really surprised that the dots came out straight.
I have really liked some of the sewing books that have been coming out, Anna Maria's, Heather's, Amy Butler's, Lotta Jansdotter... and I think there's a few more. I have a hard time returning them to the library... and only checking them out once. I have resolved to buy a few now and then, so I will always have them to peruse.

Other than that sewing, I haven't been doing much. I stitched a little bit of fabric to a pair of plain training pants for dd, and put away some of her new and old things tonight. Apparently she welcomes change (and clothes)... when I put her to bed, she had gone in there before me, and changed out of pajamas into the "new" training pants and her new Little einsteins shirt.

The kids had a big day today, but I didn't think to take the camera. We started summer gymnastics today, both in classes at the same time to save on driving. He starts at 9, she starts at 9:15. She didn't like sitting while the first class got on its way, and that she wouldn't get a turn. It took a few minutes of aerobics on my part to keep her on my lap. Poor thing. She ready to run when it was her turn though. As expected, she did great on the trampoline.
Then this afternoon our library hosted a traveling reptile show. The man was very kid friendly and entertaining, and he included them during his show. My son was volunteering almost every time help was requested, but he didn't get picked. He did get to pet an iguana, a tortoise, an albino boa constrictor (named Chiquita) and a mid size alligator. My daughter was a brave little girl, she sat in the front row with the boys (my son and our neighbors) while the guy walked around with the iguana. However, as soon as he laid the iguana on his table, several feet away, she didn't like that. So, she spent the rest of her time on my lap or in front of me. She did ask to pet the tortoise and the boa constrictor though, and did willingly when taken.
I'd say overall they had a great time, and were very patient sitting and hour and a half through the show.

Pondering

2009-05-26T11:39:00.005-05:00

There is no sunshine today, and it's not helping my mood. Feeling a bit bummed about dh's work circumstances, the load of things that need to be done this week, and that tomorrow, will be 1 year since my Poppy has left us.
I am thinking of what kind of flower I can put at his grave. I really think I should put a single spring beauty bulb there as a reminder of the yearly debate between him and grandma over mowing the grass. (The yard was a blanket of these tiny flowers, and grandma always made him wait til they seeded before he could mow.) Regardless, I'll be going to visit this week or this weekend. I have posted a little memorial message on findagrave.com for him, and an American ribbon for his service in the Korean war.
I have found a lot of interesting websites since I started researching our family history for my grandparents. I will probably take some grave marker photos for others who also have family in the same cemetery and one nearby to fulfill some requests.
Well, off to a happier note. My kids are ready for lunch, and I am hoping for some wonderful, pick-me-up fabric mail this week.

eta: Found an interesting idea on etsy for a small tribute

today's mail

2009-05-14T19:07:00.003-05:00

today's mail, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

I got the most adorable fabric ever from Craft Pudding's etsy shop. She had it printed at spoonflower (and she won the weekly contest). I also got a little bunny person stamp from her. I love all of her stamps. It all came packaged nicely, and quickly. The little round chip was tied into the fabric. A nice touch.

I'd like to make the Oliver + S swingset tunic for dd, with some little cuties on the yoke, and maybe a brown tiny dot on the bottom. I only have a tiny bit of the fabric, so I'll probably use it sparingly. I'd also like to try my hand at making some covered buttons, with some vintage ones I have. These weren't quite the right size, so I have to keep looking.

The bunny stamp will be the perfect size to stamp on the size tags and hang tags for dd's clothes.

We had a bad storm system pass over last night, but thankfully it skipped around our house. Today was beautiful. I did manage to get the grass mowed, with exception to the little puffs where my spring beauties are still flowering. I won't mow them until they set seed. I'd love to have a front yard full of them, like my grandma's.

We only have a few days of preschool left for ds. It's hardly seems like he's gone for 2 years. I can't believe he'll be in kindergarten in the fall. I am sure he will love the bus, and I hope he and his best friend get the same class room. That would be so great for the both of them. Dd will be staying at home another year with me. She is much more interested in books and such, so maybe I can help her along vs. send her to preschool when she's going on 4. Both my kiddos have October birthdays, so they miss the age cutoff for entering kindergarten. I don't mind so much, it gives them more time, and maybe it will make life easier for them later on.

Lastly, I am working on a shirt for myself. I have traced the pattern, but need to figure out where to raise it. It's about 4 or 5 inches too long on me as it is. The joy of being short. =)

It's a beautiful day

2009-05-07T12:33:00.002-05:00

... in the neighborhood... =)

Today, I'm trying to clean. I'm imagining there is only one dirty barbie plate in the sink, and not 20 other dirty things. The dishwasher just finished. Need to empty, and reload, LOL.
Rooms are cleared of stray socks and dirty clothes, and laundry is sorted. I can see most of my desk now.

We are heading to the PO shortly to send a quick package. Then to scout a few garage sales over by a friends house... not that we need any more stuff..... ah! I did list at least one item on craigslist today, so that's a small accomplishment.

I have 3 pairs of pants for dd to add buttonhole elastic into, since they still don't fit.... since last fall. If I don't do it now, she'll outgrow the length by next fall. Oh, girl!

My 5 yo has declared that he has a vacation day from work, and something about 60/30... uh huh. Little does he know, he'll be helping me with the recycles later. =) (that's an evil grin).

And, now I'll go hunt for a photo, because photo-less posts don't sit well with me. (That would be my back yard garden.)

Hope you are having a productive day!

Blame it on the rain

2009-04-27T22:39:00.003-05:00

Originally uploaded by BethieBoonuttz to Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bethieboonuttz/2287718194/

No, not quoting milli vanilli here... but I sure felt motivated yesterday morning and I made a big list of stuff to do (sort of dropped enthusiasm today). Here's some of that list, in no particular order:

Make a shirt for myself in the spirit of Top Week (See Made by Rae icon in the sidebar)
Practice lettering and preschool stuff with ds
Go to his teacher conference (done)
Clean the drawers, silverware, tray, utensils (mouse sighting/capture--UGH!-done)
Take some in progress photos of Ottobre stuff to make a helpful file
Find the grass seed
Reclaim the dirt at the bottom of the driveway and put it back where it belongs (thank you rain runoff and sloped driveway)
Get some office supplies for organizing my sewing patterns/tracings
and of course, pay the bills (so I know how much I can spend with my 40% off certificate to the sewing store) =)
and get some books on hold at the library (on hold, now to wait)

Here's a sampling of the books I'd like to explore at the moment:
Anna Maria Horner's "Seams to Me", Heather Ross' "Weekend Sewing", Amanda Soule Blake's "Creative Family" and "Zakka sewing". I'm also looking forward to Amanda's newest book, coming out "Handmade Home".
And after all that, I'm going to go enjoy some chocolate moose tracks ice cream and watch a show.

Spring flowers

2009-04-26T22:44:00.001-05:00

20090424_17.JPG, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

There is a small collection of blooms happening now in the yard, these sky-blue, forget-me-not flowers on varigated bugloss are one. The flowers themselves are teeny tiny, and usually the plant is loaded with them for a little while.
There are also lots of daffodils and spring beauties about. I noticed today that the one or two spring beauties I planted behind my hostas have spread in a huge mass around the tree base. I'll take a pic tomorrow if there's no rain. My goal is to have my front yard loaded with little white flowers, just like grandma's house.
I have a lot of work to do in the garden this year, mainly tidying up and dividing. It will be hard to buy stuff for the yard with my new passion (fabric). LOL! I just got the new kids issue of Ottobre, and there is quite a bit of cute, practical clothing in there. I went to the kids resale Saturday and did not find much for ds, so it looks like I need to make a list of things I can sew for him. I ordered some Michael Miller bot camp for him, so that should be fun. I have such a laundry list of things I'd like to make, but I really overwhelm myself with grand ideas. I am sticking to sewing though. I forget when I started last year, but I'd say it's been about a year since I committed myself to treating sewing as more than a hobby. I'd like it to be a lifelong thing, and something that maybe my two will enjoy themselves. DS has learned that my machine is not a race car, and finds great pleasure making colorful, decorative or zig zag stitches.
I did use my embroidery machine for a real project last night, too. I put a small sanrio kitty cat head onto a sundress I got dd at the kids resale. it didn't come out perfect to my standards, but it still looks pretty good. I thought she'd choose the bunny, but she picked the cat. I'm trying to accommodate her with fun characters and patterns in her clothing, she's pretty choosy at 2 1/2.

Time is getting away from me

2009-04-16T11:22:00.004-05:00

The crocus' are withered away and spring has come, some of my flowers are blooming. I'm so excited to see that my handful of Prairie trillium have multiplied. It will be years before they all flower, but last year I was graced with one full beauty. I grew up calling them bloody noses... but my curiosity as a gardener wanted to know the real name. They aren't a typical looking flower, but one of my favorites. I think second in line would be Spring Beauties, as far as bulbs go.
We'll see what this year has in store for the garden. I have some lemon drops that I bought at a plant sale, and last year my one or two plants turned into at least two dozen seedlings... and now there is a full crown starting. My mind tells me I should be dividing them soon. It's suppose to be 70° here friday, so maybe then, if the kids allow me to wander away from the playset. Whatever I did with that helpful sheet with suggestions of when to divide and deadhead.... I always try to look before I dig since I can't remember all the plants likes and dislikes.
I finished my aunt's purse last week. I made it from the Ottobre pea pod purse pattern(free download). It came out pretty well, she was excited to have something made for her, too. I've never used the fusible batting before. It wasn't very difficult, but I had some challenges putting in the zipper and stitching along the top. I had to restitch some of it because the fabric was folding over itself, so I had lost about 1/4" in a few stretches. I'm glad I didn't just leave it and move on. I thought putting the bottom on would be hard, but it was just a matter of maneuvering the fabric around. I didn't get any puckers there. The expanded instructions were great. In a few weeks, Tuula and the Ottobre staff will be posting the rest of the bag photos they received on their new blog.
I'll come back and post some photos after lunch.

It's midnight... and I'm still up.

2009-03-25T00:08:00.000-05:00

...Watching the first half of the Oprah/Dr. Oz, extreme life extending show. I caught the last half this morning. I thought what I've seen was pretty interesting. There was a man that had an accident while working on his hobby airplanes. He cut off part of his finger. His brother was a doctor, and so he used some powdered stuff, "extracellular matrix material found in pig bladders" to regrow his finger (in 10 weeks). He said the nail actually grows faster on that finger. Like I said, it an interesting show.
I just got home today, and am now caught up reading my loads and loads of messages from my yahoo groups, and my email. That's what I get for being gone 4 days. Whew!
We are enjoying spring break for the rest of the week, and this weekend I'm headed to a kid's resale to scout for some things for my kiddos to wear this spring and summer—right after I take stock of what's in their closets and drawers. I agree with Kathleen, I love to find a deal, that's half the fun.

Her thrifty dress giveaway.
Summer of 69 Thrift Store Refashion Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Look Mom!

2009-02-27T14:43:00.003-06:00

1stdollquiltswap_13.JPG, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

Sad to say, I didn't make this for dd, but she is a wonderful helper, and will be getting her very own soon. This was my first quilt, first free motion quilting, first quilt binding... you get the idea. I participated in a doll quilt swap, so this is going off to my partner in sewing, shortly.
I tried to incorporate the following things based on her answers to some of the swap questions... including, flowers/roses, green (for grass), white (for freshness), children playing... and some little secret hidden things - there is an apron hanging on a line in the yellow roses, her dd's name is free motioned in the bottom corner, kind of on a slant, and a heart above that...
The children playing is from my grandma's stash. I basted it with another piece of cotton because it was kind of thin. Hope I did that right.
I actually felt like the binding took the most time... but maybe it was because I was trying to get done.. Oh yeah, and cutting those stinking roses with my giant ruler... LOL.
All in all, this was a fun project, and I hope she likes it. If you want to see other pics of it, you can check my flickr.
References I used: Sew Mama Sew doll quilt sew-along, Vicki's binding tut, and some free motion reference from Crazy mom.

On the bandwagon

2009-02-22T12:27:00.003-06:00

Before & After Do, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

Well, it must be the time of year that everyone is looking for something new. I have decided that my hair needed a change. A drastic change. Honestly, we have a well & septic, and incredibly hard water. It was, literally, taking about 20 minutes to comb after a shower, with leave in conditioner. I did a rinse with baking soda and water while it was still long, and that did make it feel better.
On the bright side, I have been wanting a new hairstyle for a while. I grew out so long, so that I could put long layers and a little style into, and then I went and cut all my hard work right off. I am really happy with it though. It's probably been 15 years since my hair has been this short.
Other than the hair, I am just trying to stay somewhat organized around here, keep at the sewing, and keep the kids busy. I'm working on a little doll quilt at the moment. Hope to have it finished up in the next few days, since I need to mail it out.... my eyes are bulging out of my head because I should be done already. In my defense, I have not had much time to myself the last couple weeks, and the next few weeks will likely be the same.
Oh and on that note, lunch is little late today.... haha.

Christmas doll

2009-01-06T15:55:00.003-06:00

Well, she's not really a doll, but she's my doll. Her dress is the Cilla dress from Otto 06/08, #5. (The toys are her brothers.) I thought the dress went together pretty well. I cut the yoke upside down the first time, even after reminding myself... oops. It was tiny, so I recut and moved on. I used dark green for the inner yoke, and snaps instead of buttons. Snaps were a new challenge for me. I chalked the back and lined them up where they needed to go, and they work.
I love the style of this pattern. I was thinking about a valentine's dress, but it would be great for everyday too.
Most of our family lives a few hours away, so we are usually traveling over the holidays. We spent Christmas eve with my family and Christmas day with dh's family, and then had our own Christmas at home friday morning. The kids got to play and visit, and bring home some goodies. I made my MIL a cover for her huge toaster, that came out nice. I'm glad I made a stp dummy to have at home. The cover is in the same waverly print she has as wallpaper. I got the fabric free off of my local freecycle. I didn't think I'd be lucky enough to find any since it's several years old. So that was cool! I didn't really do any other hand made gifts, but I did make my mom a nice red/green plaid gift bag (to wrap her robe). I also bought some yummy smelling soap from WashableArt on etsy, including legos, oatmeal cookie dough, and some pink cupcakes. I'm not sure if it was her or another soap maker, but I saw bubbles, round bubbles in a small mass somewhere and cannot relocate them... wish I would have favorited them. Oh well, that's it for now.
Happy New Year!

Winter Sewing and a giveaway

2008-12-08T13:47:00.001-06:00

No giveaway here, but over at Grosgrain, Kathleen has an adorable green party dress. Click here: Dinner Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

I am going to trace out the round neck dress from the latest Ottobre for my little girl. I got two great fabrics from a local sewing lady, for super cheap. Did I mention they were super cheap.... like $4 for two yards. I just love the red ribbon fabric.
I'll add a pic shortly of the fabrics. (She has a loft for her sewing room, which is awesome, and a whole wall of fabric on shelves. I'd love to trade rooms.)

Good Mail

2008-12-03T15:25:00.004-06:00

Yesterday's mail was great! New reading material. I should've ordered more winter, less spring.... but the goal was to have some new ones for spring.... so I'm really on track.
I can't wait to make something out of 03/07. Such cute stuff. I got 02/04 for the swim wear mainly, so I hope I can make that a go sometime next year.

I had my niece here for the latter part of Thanksgiving weekend. We went to Joann's for the fleece sale on Saturday and picked a few things. I made her a cute new scarf to go with her white puffy coat. This one here is a matching one for her younger sister. Mittens are next on the list, once I find a pattern. I was going to use Otto 04/04, but they aren't big enough.
Other than that, things here are a little dreary and I am tired. Tired of cleaning up spilled pop, spilled milk, pee accidents and dog vomit. Totally disgusting. Someone's either not paying attention, playing with their food and slinging things off the table, running around without a diaper because she knows where the potty is.... or at least I thought she did..... and lastly, the dog. He's just having a bad day I guess. I really wish I had a cleaning lady this week, or a magic wand. I really have to get moving on the office stuff, organizing, containerizing, and so on. The counter top is ready to pick up, and the rest should be ready within 1-2 weeks. Not much time to get through the paper jungle. LOL.

Why I should not virtually window shop

2008-11-23T13:47:00.007-06:00

I was browsing Paper Source for bookmaking kits. I made one several years ago for one of my bridal showers and wouldn't mind making another one some day. They have a bunch of cute stuff on their website now, including beautiful, and hilarious file folders. The entertaining ones above, totally relate to my idea of filing. More Crap = Important things I should not throw away. =) But really, they have lovely stuff there and it is an all time favorite store for me, even though I don't get there too often.
I am not really on an organizing kick, but I am trying to be. We ordered new cabinets and bookshelves to make our kitchen office area official. Everything is on order and should be here mid December. I can't wait, but in the meantime, I am trying to make time for the things that are piled all over my current desk. I'd take a photo, but it's kind of embarrassing... maybe after I get a little bit put away I will. A before, and then I can post an after. Here's a layout.
I am on the look out for things to keep my new space tidy and interesting. I thought about using some Amy Butler or other scrapbook paper to embellish the fronts of my 3-drawer ikea paper holder, and some magazine holders. My aunt offered some metal paper trays, so I may paint those white. There was an article in the June issue of Home magazine, that had a cute set up, several things appealed to me. It's very similar to my future setup, except I have more counter space. That'll be about the only time ever, that I have more space than the picture in the magazine. They used colored file boxes, and decorative file folders, and tucked in some extras to fill the space. Anyhow, I hope to get a good start, as making messes seems to happen overnight.
I guess my big ugly printer is going to be hidden away in the base cabinet. I will try to fit all my paper printing supplies and computer extras in there.
So my organizing for the day, has led me to get out the winter box, put out all the recyclables, and make a pile of laundry. So, I'm off to continue the process before I start window shopping at the container store's website.

Camera style

2008-11-21T14:09:00.000-06:00

Grosgrain giveway for photographers. I'd really like something for my camera. I haven't even put the long strap on it, which always makes me extra careful holding it. I would be so happy to win, but if I don't I'm going to have to get my strap out and make my own cover. I want to make a wristlet too. More for my own to make list. It would make a nice Christmas present, too, for some budding photo happy person.
Custom Camera Strap GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Watercolor portrait

2008-11-16T22:34:00.000-06:00

Another great give away from Kathleen. This time it's a painting by Susannah Rodgers. I've always wanted to paint or draw a portrait of my kids, but I take forever, and I really haven't done any watercolors, other than a few still lifes in college. How fun, stop by and check it out and make a link for yourself.
Commissioned Watercolor Portrait GIVEAWAY!!!!

Stepping into fall.

2008-09-28T22:53:00.005-05:00

I love the smell of fall. The leaves of the wild cherry tree, and it's berries are dropping all over the front yard, and the large (ash, elder?) is about half yellow. I was thinking about where to put some pumpkins so the kids can see them from their rooms before bedtime.
I have one plant flowering right now, a purple aster. The phlox have mostly set seed, but there are a few stragglers with a bloom or two dangling. Time to get out there and divide things for next year, and pass along some things to my nice new neighbors.
Little girl has been exhibiting her independence lately. She told me she had to potty about two weeks ago, and really went. She just turned 23 months. So, we have been adjusting day to day routines to promote this new found skill. Although, I have a hard time telling when it's just a game sometimes. She is so proud of herself, and daddy and brother must come acknowledge her business and clap and applaud. =) It's cute. (She also wants a potty for her bunny.) I saw one at target with a baby doll, but the price tag was staggering.
The kids and I went to the park last thursday for lunch and that did not turn out as expected. There were instantly bees. Note to self: no picnicking in september. One stung me on the leg, and it is now Sunday and my leg is still sore, but not as red. I am glad though that it was me, and not the kids.
I finished up a pair of pants from the last kids Ottobre for A, and they fit her great. However, we went to lunch and she sat on a mandarin orange.... It's a stubborn stain, but much of it has come out. Oh well. I definitely want to make more of that pattern.

Back to school and on with the sewing...

2008-09-12T22:11:00.003-05:00

and serging! I got my serger back from the shop. I reviewed my manual, and am starting out with the 3 thread overlock. I have no idea what I am doing, but I'll learn what I need to, as I go. I practiced on some scraps, and then I did the edges of a shirt I'm working on for dd. Then I decided it would be useful to do the edges of all the fabric I need to get washed. It was fun, if you can imagine, and I can't believe how fast it moves. That is an adjustment since I tend to take my time at the sm.

Anyhoo, ds went back to school this week. He didn't even give the goodbye hug when it was time to go in. He was too excited to deliver his "mail" to his teachers. So I am glad he is happy to go back, and has a few old familiar friends too.

I am nearly to the end of making the kukkerus kimono from Ottobre 04/08. It has turned into a little bit of a bear project. I wish I was done already so I could move on to something else. It's a combination of things that is making it slow, but mostly I think it's just me. I have been worried over the flannel back satin. So far, it's going ok. After I stitch the other underarm and side, I'll be moving on to putting it together with the outer shell. I hope I will eventually get better and faster.

Kathleen at Grosgrain is having a playful giveaway. Make Believe Frock GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!
I hope I win it for my dd. Of course, in the meantime it will be great for dress up when we have playgroup friends over. I think I might use my handy dandy serger to make some scarves and playthings. The projects on the want to do pile are growing ever higher. =)

Mixed thoughts

2008-08-31T21:38:00.003-05:00

I can't wait for September! August has been a mixed bag, but mostly not nice. Near the top of the naughty list, someone stole the portable dvd's from our truck right after we got back from vacation. The day after that my hubby got rust stuck in his left eyeball. It took two trips to get pieces removed, and more discomfort, and now I think he is feeling better. No more red eyeball. At least he wore his safety goggles the next time he went out into the garage.

Vacation was the highlight of the month, and hearing baby girl say her name for the first time, and then repeating every word I gave her to try. So exciting! And our little guy heads back to preschool after this week is over. So glad he will have his buddy in his class again this year & another friend from our playgroup who will be new to the class.

I am on fabric overload. I really have to quit shopping and get to sewing. Our little, independent fabric shop just got in some of Sandi Henderson's Farmer's Market and a few of Michael Miller's first sight fabrics... and they reorganized to fit better all the stuff they are getting in. I love it when I see new stuff there, especially when it's one of my favorites. The owner just turned 90 yesterday, I guess they had a big party for her. I hope she had a great day.

I posted a pic of a birdie that was out on the feeder a few weeks ago. I'm not sure what he is, but I'm sure my aunt will know. I'll guess a red headed cowbird or something, I'm sure I'm way off base, I don't even know if that is a real bird but it sounds familiar. =) I don't have much for pics right now as I've been spending all my time reading everyone else's blogs, and learning about Stephanie, and printing out HB's pincushion tute and catching up on the photos in the Otto flickr pool. Not much time for sewing when I keep distracting myself.

Back Home

2008-08-25T16:38:00.004-05:00

We are back from vacation. This was the annual family trip with my husband's family. A whole week of walking down to the lake to play and fish, and watch the hummingbirds. Nice sunsets, nasty little mosquitos. The kids had a wonderful time swimming in the warm waters of Kentucky. Normally we go to northern Minnesota, so there is a big difference in how the water feels. They had a neat pirate ship playhouse for the kids. I wondered if it was Amish made since there are communities not far from there. Went to Dairy Queen, too... =)
While they were resting, I made a little pillowcase for A. (I couldn't take my machine, so I took some supplies and my Ottobres.) She loves bunnies, and I just got this cute yellow fabric before we left. I thought maybe I'd use it for the Misty skirt, but it was a perfect choice for this project. I'd like to make a bed sheet to go with it, so that's on my list.
I spent last night getting laundry sorted and oiling my sewing machine. I cleaned out a small amount of dust, a button, and a piece of construction paper that a certain little boy put in there a long time ago. Then I moved on to the serger. I oiled it about two weeks ago and let it sit, but last night I could still barely move the wheel by hand. It was slightly better, but I don't feel ready to tear it apart and oil the entire inside. I have never sewn with it, so I'd like to know how it's suppose to feel. So, I'll be sure to oil it on a regular schedule in the future. For now, I'll be waiting a few weeks to get it back. I'm sure I have plenty of other things to finish up. Ta ta.

Weekend excursion

2008-08-13T12:58:00.005-05:00

Weekend finds, originally uploaded by twolilacs.

This past weekend I went with my mom & grandma to a new (to us) quilt shop. I found some Erin McMorris fabric there. They didn't have much, but I was happy to find some just for me. I *love* the blue/green flower one, it is lighter in the center and gets darker towards the edges. It reminds me of some of the border prints that I have.
Then I found a fat quarter of the cutest bunny print. It has bears too, but I like the bunny. My dd loves bunnies, and I thought that I could work this into something for her. First I thought clothing, then I thought I could learn to make a quilt, or a doll quilt.
...... then I went to a quilt shop near me today and they have a whole room of thimbleberries fabrics. I bought a pattern & kit that includes the bunny & bear panel. So now I have committed myself to making her a quilt. Committed myself being the operative words. =)
Now, the only thing is, that the kit doesn't incorporate the fat quarter I like so much. So, maybe it will be a matching pillow case or dolly quilt.
I don't know how to make a quilt, so this will be an adventure.
So the weekend excursion led me to a find today, but I keep telling myself, I don't feel too guilty as long as I keep sewing. I don't want to accumulate fabric that doesn't get used. Whew.

Too young to drive

2008-08-06T16:20:00.004-05:00

My little guy decided that he needed his own driver's license.
He said he needs it before vacation... "Remember, mom, last year I helped Daddy drive the boat, so I need my own license, so I can drive." BTW, his driving consisted of mind spinning donuts with the occasional loop out... fun for all.
A while back I had made him some simple cards to color and glue on for Valentine's day, (giveouts for class). So, I thought I'd take the same approach. I think some form of simple stationery that he can personalize is what appeals to him.
So, if you have a budding driver, visit my flicker and download a sheet with 6 licenses and print it out on some cardstock. Your child can draw in their own face, and maybe you can get them to practice their name and address.... ;)

So 80s

2008-07-29T20:57:00.004-05:00

Somehow I came across a vintage toy website today, and I saw Fashion Plates. With all the sewing and patterns, and looking at what people are making on Flickr... I couldn't help to think what fashion plates would look like with Ginger Blossom, or Ava Rose, or Amy Butler, or Park Slope. I loved that toy, and I'm sure my sisters inherited it at some point, and now has disappeared.
So, I think I will put it on my Christmas list. My sister likes to get me oddball or crafty gifts, so maybe I can talk her into this one. She was kind enough to get me my first Ottobre for my birthday.
I have been taking a break from sewing, but there lies fabric for an Ottobre kimono on my cutting board. Patiently.
I received an Elna serger from a friend of my Aunt, so I have also been reading up on that. It's a bit overwhelming, but I made it through the bulk of the book mostly understanding what I read. I'd like to pick up a red or deep pink thread so I can give it a go testing out the stitches and tensions by using the colors of the tension dials. I'm thinking that I could probably make some hand towels for the house, or just practice on some scrap. Theoretically, it would be more "fun" to make something, botched stitches or not. And, if I go make something now, I may be less tempted to order more fabric for my stash. =)

Summer, summer, summer

2008-07-14T18:57:00.004-05:00

It's a good time in the garden now, there is so much in bloom. The kids love to go out and pick daisies and coreopsis. There are far more weeds than I care to look at, but I am just trying to enjoy the highlights of the yard, and get to cleaning up when I have time.
I love the blooms on this daylily. They are pretty big, and I just love the ruffled edges. By far, a favorite of the varieties in my yard. I think I have 8 to 10 different kinds, don't ask me to name them though. It's the same with the hostas, lots of varieties, but I need to keep track of the names better before I forget.
These are out back, but I love looking at them from the house. These hydrangeas have been so hardy and reliable. I got them at a plant sale fundraiser a few years ago, from the Soil and Water district. I was able to get plants from their sale for two or three years until they decided to quit doing it.
Check my flickr for a few other delights in my garden this year.

Early Evening Gown GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!

2008-07-09T16:21:00.002-05:00

Early Evening Gown GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!
Another great giveaway from Kathleen @ Grosgrain.
She looks like a little fairy, love the fireflies.

Ottobre Summer shorts

2008-07-03T23:23:00.002-05:00

I finished the summer shorts for ds. I think construction wise, everything went fine. I got a little hung up on the pocket binding but I pushed my way through it. It wasn't that bad, just another new thing. I managed to match up the pockets, but didn't plan to match up the legs. Maybe next time, after I read how to do it. Normally, I would just guess, but I'm thinking that I would have to cut out 4 legs as opposed to cutting two on folded fabric.

M like them so that's good. Now to decide if they are an outfit or pj's... I'm sure he'll let me know.

Vintage buttons

2008-07-01T17:33:00.003-05:00

My aunt and my grandma have been going through some of Grandma's old sewing supplies. She has oodles of buttons. These happen to be in their original state, card and all. There are some miscellaneous ones, like orange, teal, apples, some pearly ones. One more excuse to learn how to use the button hole device for my machine.
I also received some ric rac, bias trim and a nice tin full of embroidery floss. My great grandma use to sew quilts, so I have a small supply of some of her applique tracings. I am thinking they will look cute on some little shirts or dresses for my kiddos.
Well, we are headed outside to play.

Roosters-N-Rickrack Pinafore courtesy grosgrainfabulous

2008-06-30T11:43:00.002-05:00

Roosters-N-Rickrack Pinafore GIVEAWAY!!!!

An adorable dress! I love the ball fringe... I need to sew faster so I can add projects like this to my sewing table. I like the little roosters. It reminds me that I have some rooster, chickens, cats, etc in a file from my great grandmother. I believe she appliqued them to her quilting projects. I think I will get them out and re-inspire them into my projects. Slow as they may be.

June berries

2008-06-30T11:27:00.006-05:00

Went to my aunt's yesterday to check on her place. Her raspberry vines are loaded, which is unfair because mine is huge but probably has about a handful or two of berries. Note to self: prune them next year for more yield. In my defense though, we had some crazy wind and I lost two of the stalks.
So, I will enjoy her berries since she is not back from vacation until today. =)

wearing a dress

2008-06-28T23:35:00.004-05:00

Well, let's say it's been a few years since I have worn a dress, and it was probably for a wedding or something. I did wear maternity dress, but that does not count, since it was a short term outfit. However, today I'm in love with a bunch of dresses, found here, and they are just cute. I like how she throws a contrasting slip under them, or a shirt. And, some of them are even for short people, like me. So, I may break the trend I have going and actually start wearing dresses again.
So, I will thank Kathleen... and at some point I will sew for myself, but I might have to supplement with the above. =)

Strawberry Quart Caplet with Simple Sailing Frock

2008-06-27T23:03:00.001-05:00

In Blogland today:

Strawberry Quart Caplet with Simple Sailing Frock

I hope I win, then I don't have to figure out how to make one. ;)

I guess I am in inspiration mode today, and hopefully sewing mode will resume this weekend. Iron man junior's pj pants are ready to be stitched together. (DS has been wearing his winter boots in his effort to make his own Iron man costume.)

Fresh from the garden

2008-06-09T14:38:00.003-05:00

We moved the garden back about 12 feet a few weeks ago. I decided I'd leave the strawberries and raspberries in their old place as long as possible. (Future patio). Last year they were pretty small, but this year there are tons of baby plants. I am surprised at the size of the berries. Of course I had to take a pic of the first ones. =)

Pinafores, weeds and things

2008-05-04T21:25:00.004-05:00

I received issue 01/08 of Ottobre design for my birthday, from my sis. I made a little pinafore for A. It fits her pretty good. After I make myself the "swing" purse, then I will be on to making pants for A, to go with the pinafore.
I prewashed my fabric for the purse, but the canvas doesn't want to unwrinkle. So, I am armed with a new spritzer, and hope to get it flattened out. I also want to use up some of the Alexander henry scraps to make a little zip pouch to go with my sis' purse. I like the rounded bottom ones from Amy Butler, but maybe I can do it myself. I feel like experimenting.... maybe with muslin first though. The quilt shop by me is carrying more Amy Butler patterns and the new midwest modern line, some of it anyways.
Spent the weekend mortified... of all the dandelions in my garden beds. First thing on my list for monday morning is to call the mulch guy, and check my stock of newspaper/weed mat. I am very happy to say that after being here for several years now, that some more of my plants are ready to be divided. I have lots of Shasta daisies, and a crop of sedum coming up, and an aster plant that is a giant circle of a plant now. The deer came by and sampled some stuff a few weeks back. It looks like some of the tulips survived. Yay! So far, we have yellow.
And, I finally decided on a great place for wall vase. It's in a nice visible spot. The ribbon is a little delicate, but I plan to change that throughout the season. Dainty is good for spring.
Found a nice garden chair that somebody threw out in the trash during garbage week. It appears to be freshly primered, so I am putting a coat of exterior paint on it, to match my garden gate and house trim. I'm thinking I may paint the slats the clay color of the house.. haven't decided yet if I will like that or not.
Also, getting back to doing some house projects. Will have to get the list going again.

2008-04-13T14:37:00.003-05:00

I finished my sister's belated birthday present this weekend. It is an Amy Butler pattern, using Alexander Henry on the main panel. I thought it came out pretty good. She liked the print, so that made me happy. If I have enough left in the scraps I want to make a little zipper pouch, key/cell strap, something....

Baby shoes

2008-02-29T14:06:00.003-06:00

cloth_shoes_001.JPG
Originally uploaded by twolilacs

I finished the cloth shoes from Ohelene's pattern. I thought they were fairly easy to complete. I want to make a pinafore for my little monster, and thought a pair of matching shoes would be cute. I already got the fabric, it's sort of a large pattern, but it might still work.
Also, my friend bought ballet socks for her baby girl, I thought it would be cute to make a cloth shoe version, with flannel backed satin. I'm just not sure about lining up the heel with the toe... I thought I could possibly use ribbon to hide any mismatching.
I'm also wondering about making these for spring and summer. I guess I would have to use lightweight fabric on both sides. Food for thought.

Projects and Snow

2008-02-04T10:20:00.000-06:00

I completed the simple tote from the Bend the rules book. It took me some time, spread out over the weekend. I wasn't sure I put it together in the right order, once it was time to put the lining piece into the main bag. Thankfully I did, just had to turn the lining's right side against the right side of the outer bag.
The hallway is on hold until I choose a paint color, and get some lights ordered from Home depot. Apparently black and white track is the most common... so of course the lights I like have a chrome attachment. HD had a chrome track online, so it's either that, or pick a different light with a white attachment. I'm so picky.
We got quite a bit of snow, probably about 9 inches the first time, and then another 3 inches or so last night. Now it is raining, and had been thundering. This weather.

2008-01-15T14:45:00.000-06:00

The wallpaper is on it's last leg. I have two feet to go, after nap time is over... clean the walls, fix a spot and prepare for paint. Whoo! These are my paint selections. It's not a very bright hallway, but I am leaning towards the darker color on the top left. We did agree on track lighting to replace the single, dim light. Now, if I could find a glass lampshade with a white base to match the white track. Lots of chrome based ones, but I don't think that would look right on a white track...

Anyone have any favorite websites for inexpensive picture frames?

Zipper bag, yay!

2008-01-09T13:32:00.000-06:00

I can tell it's been a while since I have sewn anything, it took me extra dawdling time. I made a zipper bag from the Bend the rules book last weekend. It came out pretty good, although I think the zipper could be done better. I'd like to make some different size ones. I also didn't have any matching ribbon, so I'll try that next time. I have some tiny heart grommets in my scrapbook stuff that would look really cute lined up on a ribbon. Next: tote, pleated purse.
I have an excel file now for the budget file, but have to figure out how to host it or post it.

Resolutions and thoughts

2008-01-03T19:57:00.000-06:00

Beki had an inspiring resolutions list on her blog. I am working on my own, but I am not bold enough to make it all public. Although, I know there are many things in the house & garden that can be done this year. The top of my list, is to get the rest of the wallpaper off the hallway walls. It's half down, and the rest needs to go. I won't say how long it's been that way. My family is probably wondering about us. I finally got a rug this week for the living room, so I can knock that one off the list. Yay!
I also need to get flannel interfacing, so I can get going on some projects in the Bend the Rules book. I did find a cute pink cotton shirt on clearance at Targét for my daughter. I hope to experiment some embroidery on it. See Doodle Stitching.
I also ordered a couple gardening catalogs, since none have yet arrived. Bluestone perennials, Whiteflower farm, Prairie Nursery (sells native), and Jackson & Perkins. I really hope to order some things from the Bluestone catalog this year. I meant to last year, but ended up getting some great deals free, and at a annual plant sale, about an hour from here. I like the J&P catalogs for ideas for container plants and garden structures (which I need).
I also need to decide what needs dividing this spring, besides Shasta daisies. I need to find my divide and propagate guide to make this task easier on my brain. I have a variety of hostas, a handful are new from last summer. I can't wait to see how many Fire & Ice I have... they seemed to revert to a green leaf, vs. keeping the white/cream (center?). I doubt I'll get any more of those. I am also excited to see how the new addition of daffodils/jonquils come up out back this year.

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T23:39:00.000-06:00

Doodle stitching is good, so far. I've gone through the stitch examples. So, next will be a little sample project. Somewhere in all the stuff I collect, is a seasonal pamphlet, maybe Easter, from Hancock fabrics with an introduction to embroidery. I still remember that, and this book is a fun reminder. I hope to work on a sample next, and see how that goes trying to follow along shapes, etc.
New Year's Day was full of snow and wind. The gigantic snowman out back, has gained a new snowsuit. Funny, the day before his facial features drooped off with the warmth. Gotta love the midwest.

Current ambitions

2007-12-29T22:47:00.000-06:00

I got a few new books of interest from the library. Amy Karol's bend-the-rules sewing book, which has some inspiring ideas. Along with that, I've spent the last few days discovering some cool blogs, awesome fabrics, patterns and designers. On my list now, is to make something from the bend-the-rules book. I'm thinking about the clutch project. If the mood continues, I'd like to try an Amy Butler swing bag and maybe one other.
Doodle stitching is next. I browsed it quickly and it looks like it has good examples, and fun vs. traditional ideas. I'm sure my sister would appreciate the "doodled" sneakers.
AB's In Stitches is also on my library list... looking forward to that.
In general, I am not crazy about patterns because after a while they are confusing. I don't really sew very much, only hemming things, the occasional halloween costume, or reinforcing clothes to stretch out their life... i.e. the favorite gymboree flame pants... that have seen better days, and the relatively new Carter's sweatpants with the carpet induced hole in the knee.
So, I have moved on from digital scrapbooking to actually trying to sew some things. Wish me luck.