a day in the life of val

Tova Dress

2012-01-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

I bought a Wiksten pattern called the Tova top a while back .. and I actually made a top right away. Of course, I don't have a picture of it, but I LOVE it. I wear it ALL.THE.TIME. I decided to make the dress version.

I used a Nani Iro double gauze, and this one looks like it will be another winner!

I am not brilliant at taking my own picture, but hopefully these will give you an idea:

Hope you are having a great weekend!

Cross one off the Works in Progress list!!

2012-01-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago, I decided that I had too many projects on the go, and too many more that I wanted to make. I wasn't really sure how many that actually meant until I started a list. YIKES! I probably left a few off the list, but lets just say that the list is h.u.g.e.

I am proud to say to you that I have officially crossed the first thing off the list.

I'll start by telling you that I really love this store called M0851, and in particular, I really want this bag. The problem is, I can't handle the price tag ....

So, I decided I would try and make a bag that was similar. Not an exact copy of course, cause that wouldn't be very nice .. but similar. I actually even bought some leather to give it a go! This is way outside my comfort zone, but I am still think I am going to give it a try.

That being said, I wasn't really sure how to go about doing that. I started by looking at a couple of patterns that I already had, and I made a pattern, and then a sample bag. The sample bag was one of the many on that huge list, and I finished it up today!

It's not perfect, and I am not sure I am ready to make the "real" one yet ... but it's at least one off my list.

Blogger bundle anyone???

2011-12-29T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well hello there!

Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas ... and if you don't celebrate, that you had some time off!! I am looking forward to joining you all again. It's been awhile : )

So what brought me back today you ask? Well .. I have seen a whole bunch of new "blogger bundle's" popping up all around town. I thought it may be fun to make one too! Of course, along with it goes a fun little competition! You can see the details here.

So ... here is my idea of a fun little bundle:

I had an awful lot of fun making this bundle ... and of course, I would love to have each and every one of these fabrics!

Tiny pocket tank

2011-09-10T06:06:00.000-07:00

I don't make tons of clothes .. but every once in a while I see something that I NEED to have.

I saw this and this. It is a Wiksten Tank top and I thought I NEED to make that!

So then, I tried to find the pattern. It isn't for sale right now. Sad! I tried to get a used copy or a tracing. No such luck. So then I started searching for other tank patterns.

Ta Da!! I found this tiny tank pattern from Grainline.

The pattern was a pdf, and was very reasonable. In a few short hours I have a new tank top!

I can't wait to wear it!

Paper Piecing a scrappy pinwheel

2011-09-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

Sweet Amy was kind enough to ask for a tutorial on a block that I made. I jumped at the chance, because I am the first to google "tutorials", and if this can help someone, it would make my day. This is a block that I made for my bee members. I made them in my colours for a test block.

So, I will preface this by saying that this pattern is not mine, nor do I claim that my method of paper piecing is the best. This is my way of doing it, so I hope you will be successful using this way.

I took tons of pictures for this post - so hopefully at the end it all makes sense. If not, just let me know, and I will try my best to help you out!

Ok - first of all, I got the pattern here. I made the 12" one. The pattern requires that you make 4 blocks, so you will need to print off 4 copies of the pattern.

I decided to make mine with 8 fabrics, with each block the exact same. By all means you could do this block with all scraps, or any combination of fabrics that you want!

I started by cutting 3 x 5 inch pieces of the fabric that I wanted to use. 4 of each one. If you are using scraps, you just want to make sure that each piece of fabric is about this big. You need 32 pieces of fabric this size, and then will need an outside colour. I used white.

Next, I put the fabrics into the order that I wanted them to appear in the block.

Then, I took the first two fabrics and put them right sides together.

You then put these fabrics on the back side of the paper. This would be the blank side of the paper, not the one with the printed pattern on it. You will want the fabric to line up within the square that says #1.

The way I check to see if it is lined up right, is to hold it up to a window (or a light if it's dark).

Then, holding the fabric tight, and keeping it straight, flip the paper back over and head to the sewing machine. Make sure your stitch length is set to a smaller number than normal. This will make it easier to rip off the paper later. I set mine to 1.5.

You will stitch along the line between square 1 and square 2. Try to make sure that you stay on the line. You will be sewing through the paper here! It sounds a little louder than normal, but don't worry, it's all good.

You want to make sure you sew a little bit on each side of the line for the seam allowance. We don't want any holes!!

Next you iron the fabrics nice and flat.

Now, choose your next fabric, and then place this fabric right side down. I usually guess where I think it will work, and then double check by holding it up to the window.

It was kind of hard to capture in the picture, but you want the fabric to be over the line between square 2 and 3 by about 1/4 inch.

Once you have it all lined up, go ahead and hold the fabric tight, and flip it over so you can sew along the line between square 2 and 3.

Then, we are going to need to do a little trimming. I try and make about a 1/4 inch seam, but it doesn't need to be accurate!

Next, you are going to iron it nice and flat!

Ok, again, choose your next fabric, and lay it right side down guessing where it would overlap the line between 3 and 4 by about 1/4 inch.

Sew on the line between 3 and 4, and then flip and trim and iron again.

You are going to keep going with this process until all 8 squares are done.

You will notice the fabric changes here ... I am making bee blocks, so I went ahead and used a different group here.

Now we are going to do the boarder fabric. I choose white, and I cut the fabric about 5 inches by 10 inches. If you do this, there will be a lot of waste. I just don't like unpicking seams because there isn't enough coverage.

So, start by laying the white fabric over the exisiting fabric, trying to get it to be at least 1/4 over the sewing line between the numbers 1-8 and 9.

Check to make sure it's good!

Sew, trim and iron. Then, repeat for the other side.

Here is picture after both sides are done.

Then, go ahead and trim up your block. You will want to make sure you are cutting leaving the seam allowance.

Your square will look like this now:

You need to make 4. Again, I made all mine the same. Then, lay them out in the design that suits you.

Don't take off the paper yet!!

You need to sew the 4 together into your block!!

If you like, you can take off the paper outside the seam allowance to lessen the bulk before you sew the two sides together. I like to do this, and then press my seams open. It's up to you, but I love looking at the fun points!

Ok .. almost done!!

After sewing all four of the blocks together - take off all the paper. I love this part, but you want to be careful not to pull the seams. So long as you shortened your stitch at the beginning it should be just fine.

After the paper is off, press it again, and ta da!! You are done!

I hope you don't have any trouble with anything here - but if you do (or if you find any mistakes!!), please let me know!

hmmm ... something happened to July!

2011-08-07T14:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!! I totally disappeared for an entire month. Sorry about that. I can't say I have any particular reason. I have just been busy enjoying the weather and some downtime.

I have joined a couple of bee's, and have been making a few blocks. Here are my completed blocks for the 4 x 5 bee:

I am just about to start making some for the 3 x 6 bee. I started with a trial block in my colours:

I think I will try one more trial before I make a final decision.

Other than that - I have just done odds and ends. Like these hair ties I made with my daughter last week:

I can't say I will be around much in August either, since we have two weeks planned up at the cottage, but I will be back!

The mail is running again ...

2011-06-30T05:08:00.000-07:00

The mail man (woman too) are finally back to work, and just in time! They must have known I had three swap deadlines this week! I got them all out in the mail, and hopefully they won't take too long to get to their new respective owners. I hear there is a bit of a backlog since Canada Post has been off for a bit.

Anyway, here is the first of the items. It's a bag made from a Keyka lou pattern. My partner said she liked Anna Maria Horner, so Anna Maria Horner it is!

The second one was a little more last minute than I would have liked. I had ordered some pre-made linen tea towels from Stefanie, but unfortunately, they haven't arrived yet because of the strike (boo). So, I washed some linen, and made my own tea towels. They are a little wonky, but hopefully close enough. Pure linen is tricky!
I used a candy bar of Bliss, and made some dresdens for the front. I had never done these before, and I am pretty pleased with the result.

And lastly, was the Spicing up the Kitchen swap. I showed you a little peek of the placemats a while ago, but I also made some tea towels.

So now all my current swaps are done. I will be waiting patiently for my items to come in the mail, and I may or may not be stalking the postman a little : ) I am sure I will be signing up for something new soon enough.

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

I hope all the Dad's out there have a fantastic day!

My sweet husband has been working hard these past few weeks (as usual), and is almost done with that garage that was a hole in the ground not too long ago. In an effort to be thrifty, there are a lot of recycled materials used - but it's new to us!!!

I have also been working on some sewing - but haven't taken the time to come and share.

I finished up the Pillow Swap, sent it off to my partner, and she has already received it. Best I can tell, she is pretty happy with it, so that makes me happy!

I have also been working on some placemats for the second round of the Spicing up the kitchen swap.

I also have some other things in the works .. and will share those another day : )

Pillow Talk Swap 5

2011-06-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

The lure of another swap has sucked me in. I was going to ease off on the swaps, but I can't resist them.

I received my partner for this round of the Pillow talk swap, and I must say that this one is tough for me. Reason??? I was brainstorming to come up with an idea, and I am pretty much positive that the pillow I made is not something that my partner likes! .

I actually had trouble sleeping with ideas running through my head, and I woke up extra early last Saturday morning and quickly drew out my idea and went to work!

I actually put this pillow top together super fast, and before I knew it the top was done!

I really love it, and it has received some really positive feedback. But since I am not so sure that my partner is going to love it, I thought I should probably get started on another one ... She asked for bright, fun and cute, and I don't really think my first attempt met any of those requirements. So back to the drawing board I went.

I have really wanted to try a circle of flying geese, and I think this may be closer to my partners style.

I wasn't sure if I should do it with the greens all on one side, or mixing the green and the blue.

I ended up mixing them up, and then putting patchwork squares all around them.

I have started quilting the pillow top, and now I think I am going to add a little hand embroidery. What do you think .. blue, green or both??

Crepe dress

2011-05-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

I bought my first colette pattern, the crepe dress, and I have already finished it! I didn't even have time to tell you about it before it was done, and I think I am pretty happy with the results.

Here is the front.

... and the back.

I will really try hard and get a picture of the dress on me, but for now these will have to do. I don't have a long mirror in my house (tragic right??), and so I would have to enlist the help of others to take the picture. So far, I keep forgetting to do that.

I plan on wearing this to a wedding in the summer.

The dress was actually really easy to put together, and I can already see more colette patterns in my future. I only did one small alteration to the dart under the bust to make it a little tighter. I think I could have done a few more based on the fit .. but overall I would say it's a wearable result!

DS Quilts

2011-05-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

By now I am sure most of you have seen the new DS Quilts fabric that hit the Joanns stores in the U.S.

In Canada, we have no Joanns, so through the powers of the internet, and from some kind souls, I have received and sewn a quilt top with the new fabric!!

Ta da!!

I didn't use a pattern, I just made it up ... but it was not my idea. I saw a picture of a quilt on the front of a magazine (Quilts and More), and went for it. There are obvious differences, like the one in the magazine is on a diagonal, but same general pattern.

Now to decide how to quilt it!

Happy Mother's Day!!

2011-05-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mother's out there! I hope you all have the day that you deserve : )

Nikki tote

2011-05-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Surprise surprise ... another post, another swap. As I type this, I am actually taking a little break from cutting out a brand new project that is for ME, not for a swap! Of course, I don't have pictures or anything, but I do have pictures of the Nikki tote.

I joined the Goodie Bag Swap, and my partner's mosaic showed lots of bigger bags (totally my style), and I decided to make one for her, one for me!! Choosing the fabric was difficult. I think my partner's taste may be a little brighter than mine. Now don't get me wrong, I like bright, but she seems to like bolder patterns.

I chose the Nikki tote for a couple of different reasons. First of all, I wanted something that would suit both of us. Secondly, I wanted something that I would use more than once! This pattern seemed like a perfect fit.

Anyway, I started with these three fabric choices:

Without giving anything away .. I have to tell you that my partner may or may not have commented on one of them (I don't have any idea if she will read this post, so I have to be careful not to give away the secret).

I ended up with this bag:

The pattern was very simple to follow. The only change I made was to add in an inside zippered pocket. Please excuse the dangling thread that I haven't trimmed yet.

Then, on to the second bag. I went bolder and brighter for this one:

I am super pleased with both to be honest .. and now I just have to decide which one is making the journey to it's new home : )

Hope everyone had a Great Easter!

2011-04-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

We had a nice quiet Easter with just our family this year, and it was really nice! I hope you all had a great Easter weekend too.

I have been busy lately, which I suppose is a running trend in my life. I have been sewing, but never as much as I want. What has been taking up more of my time are things that don't really seem all that exciting to share. Taking my daughter to gymnastics, finishing up the hockey season with my son, working. The normal boring everyday stuff.

I do have a few things to share.

I made this hoop travel bag for the Pretty little pouch swap. My partner suggested that this may be something they liked ... so I stuck with that. It is a pattern from the Frosted Pumpkin Stitchery, and it was really quite easy.

I added a little bit of embroidery, and an initial to the front (which isn't shown here, since it's a secret swap).

We have also started building a new garage .. which equals really muddy messy backyard.

I thought keeping my floors clean was hard before! This takes it to a whole new level.

I also just finished up a bag for the Goodie Bag swap, but I will save that for next time : )

Salvaging mistakes ...

2011-04-06T14:55:00.000-07:00

So, remember this?

I decided that I should try and make something with it. I knew that I wouldn't be able to use the whole thing since some of the half squares were really wonky. I used my trusty seam ripper .. and salvaged some mini squares.

I have joined some more swaps (I know I thought that I would be slowing down on these), and one of them was for pouches. So, I thought I would try and make a little pouch to get some practice!

Pretty good right??!!

And since I was on a roll using up some scraps, I started making my potholder for the PP7. This is to go along with the bag that I made. The theme is ``not square``, so hopefully this is going to be something my partner will love.

I used all scraps, and did some random piecing, and finished this top up really fast! Now, I just have to find some insulbrite and finish it up! Some of the scraps came from Kerry (verykerryberry), so I just want to say an extra thanks to her!

Sometimes when you mess up it's better ....

2011-04-02T15:19:00.000-07:00

So, I made a bag today. It's a Wrap it up bag, from Penny at Sewtakeahike.

Now, I will start by telling you that this pattern is great! The mistakes are entirely my doing.

For starters, the pattern calls for quilting weight cotton. I didn't use that. I used some Essex Linen, some Echino linen cotton blend, and some canvas. Here is a close up of the Essex and the Canvas.

Originally I was going to use only these two, but at the last minute I thought I should add a little punch of colour.

So the first mistake happened when you have to pull the lining through the handles. It didn't work, probably because the fabric is way heavier than what is supposed to be. I tried really hard to make it work. So hard that I ripped the linen. Like really ripped it. I fixed it by adding a little bit of Echino in the handle instead.

Fun right?? I am soooo glad that I decided to rip it : )Even though I cursed when it happened. I have forgiven myself because of the result.

Next mistake ... the strap that wraps it up?? Well clearly I should have made it longer to account for the thicker fabric. Result?? You have to roll that bag sooooo super tight or else it won't work. Next bag, I will make sure that I make it longer.

Overall, I am super happy with the result!!

I made this bag to swap ... but I don't want to send this one, I want to keep it for myself. So, I guess I will see lots of these in my future!!

Spicing up the Kitchen - Received!!

2011-03-31T15:17:00.000-07:00

So .. I received an another awesome package This time it came from Amber!

Poor Amber was soooo worried that it wasn't going to arrive. It took nearly a month to come from the U.S. to Canada. Now, I don't like to complain, but that seems a bit crazy doesn't it? I guess things must be busy in customs these days! We were both really relieved when it arrived, and it was worth the wait!! I am super pleased.

Aside from receiving this great swap - not too much going on in the world of sewing for me.

I started reading this book .. and of course, it's part of a series, and I can't stop! So, I have been reading. A lot. I am on book two of five. Which means I might be in trouble.

I will try and come up for air and drop in for a visit!

Urban home goods swap = Received!

2011-03-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

So ... I received my Urban home goods swap!!!! It is pretty fantastic if I do say so myself.

There is a great bag:

A cute pouch:

A great pincushion:

... and a whole bunch of other fun little treats!!

All this is from Nichole! HUGE THANKS!!

Did you miss me?

2011-03-14T15:16:00.000-07:00

I really didn't mean to disappear .... but .... we decided to go from this:

to this ....

... and we had a little enjoyable vacation in the Bahamas. I had no time to warn you. It was a last minute decision, and we barely had time to pack. Anyway, I am back now, and I will hopefully have lots to show you before you know it!

I will start by showing you the first of the swaps that I received!

This is the mugrug that I received from Cheryl:

So love it!!! Thanks Cheryl!!

Is it really Sunday already?

2011-02-27T15:44:00.000-08:00

Wow .. another week hits the history books. I really feel like time is whipping by so fast!

I have managed a little sewing between outdoor activities. First, I have finally finished the top of the quilt for the Urban Lattice Quilt a long.

And, since I need another quilt like I need a hole in the head, I started something fun with this beauty!

I couldn't resist buying a layer cake of this yet to be released fabric. It was reasonably priced, and so super cute! I have seen a few little projects popping up here in there, and when I saw this project over on the Moda bake shop ... I went for it!! These pictures are not the greatest .. but you can see that it's coming together nicely!

Finally .. a little glimpse into our family day outdoor adventures. Snow painting, ice fishing, skating etc.

It's Family Day

2011-02-21T05:43:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, we got a new holiday. They call it family day, which is very fitting since I will be spending the day with the kids and the hubby doing family stuff. We are off to a winter festival for snowman building, ice skating, sack races and a big BBQ.

Anyway, I have finished off my last two swaps, and now sewing for me can start!! I LOVE swaps, but I may have over-committed a little because I have no self control. I have a lot of WIPs, and instead of finishing those, all I have been doing is sewing for swaps.

Anyway - here are the finished products for the Urban Home Goods:

My partner asked for a hoop and a pillow .. so a hoop and a pillow it is!

Then, I finished up the pincushion for the pincushion swap:

I modified the pattern to use more than one fabric ... but used this tutorial:

www.stitchinmission.org/PC_Tutorial.html

Lastly, since the pincushion looked a little lonely, I decided to pull out the sculpey and make a few little friends to go home with the new pincushion.

I will only send a couple, but since the sculpey was out anyway, I made a whole flock!

3 finished swap items!!

2011-02-16T18:03:00.000-08:00

So I have been working on some finishing up, and can show you 3 other finishes that are off to their new homes.

First, two little mug rugs, for the scrappy mug rug swap. You really only need to send one, but I made two, and then couldn't decide which one to send. So, I have sent both. Hopefully they are well loved in their new home.

Then, I finished the potholders for the potholder pass. The theme was monotone, and my partner picked brown.

Last up, is the spicing up the kitchen swap. I made a table runner, and then crocheted some dishclothes to go with it. This is the front.

This is the back. Sorry the photo is a bit blurry ... I took this a few days ago, and can't take another since it's already in the mail.

I have two more swaps that just need some finishing touches, and then I can hopefully get to all the other works in progress that seem to be cluttering up my sewing area.

Piping and an invisible zipper in a pillow

2011-02-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

Ok ... so, as a continuation of the pillow tutorial, I now have all the supplies I need, so I am all ready! I hope you will be able to understand my steps. By all means, ask me questions if you have no idea what I am talking about!

Ok, for the first step, you need to prepare your cording. You can buy premade cording, which means you can eliminate this step if you want. But, if you want to have the cording match or to be a specific material, it's really quite easy. You will need it to be the same length as the perimetre of the pillow. In my case this is 20 inches x 4 sides, or about 80 inches. I make it a bit longer, since you need to overlap the start and finish a bit. I am doing curved corners, so you don't really need to add any extra for the corners. In total, I am doing about 85 inches of cording.

You can really choose any size cording. For this one, I think I chose 6mm, but it's really up to you what size you use. Then, you are going to need to measure how wide you need your strips of fabric to be. I do this with a tape measure. I wrap it around the cording, leaving 1/2 an inch on each side of the cord.

Then, I look to see how wide the fabric needs to be. In my case, this is 1 and 1/2 inches.

Next, I cut strips of fabric on the bias 1 and 1/2 inches wide. You know how to do this right??

Ok, then I sew my fabric together, to make one continuous strip. For those of you who have made a binding for a quilt - you use the same method. For those of you have no idea, here is a quick how to.

You place the two pieces of fabric right sides together in a "t" type shape.

Then you sew from corner to corner.

When you open it up, it will look like a continuous piece.

Ok, next, you want to encase the cording inside the fabric we just sewed together. I use my zipper foot for this step. I leave my needle position in the centre, and fold the cording inside the fabric so that the edges meet. Then I sew beside the cording for the entire length of the fabric.

Are you still with me?? Your cording is done!

Next, we are going to sew the cording to the right side of the front of the pillow. I pin all the way around with the raw edge of the cording we just made to the raw edge of the front side of the pillow. I just curve around the corners. When you get to the end, you will cross the ends over each other.

Move your needle position over to the left, so you move the needle closer to the cording, and then sew all the way around the pillow. You are going to want to try your best to sew inside the seam line you made when making the cording. That's it!!

You cross the ends over and sew over them.

Ok - now the fun part. Don't be scared. It's time to put in the zipper.

Open Zipper the full length, and iron the zipper (on the wrong side), so that the teeth lie flat.

Place the teeth as close as you can to the piping, and make sure the teeth stay flat (open). You are going to stitch in the ditch as close as possible to zipper teeth without stitching the teeth. If you hit the teeth, the zipper won't close, so this is really important.

Next, zip the zipper closed, and lay the back of the pillow, right sides together with the front. Keeping the zipper closed will help match the side edges of the pillow.

With right sides together pin zipper in place at the bottom of the pillow back matching outside edges of the pillow. You will then need to open the zipper to sew it to the back. It's really important that you can open and close the zipper, and don't get it all twisted.

Now, keeping the teeth open, stitch in the ditch as close as possible with out catching the teeth in your stitching.

Now you are ready to close in the entire pillow. You have right sides together, and you will start sewing at one of the zipper ends. You sew over the zipper to close it in, and then sew all the way around the outside of the pillow.

I like to stitch on the side where you can see the previous cord stitching. It doesn't really matter .. but you want to sew as close to the cording without actually sewing the cording as you can. You can feel the cord, and just have the zipper foot snug into the cord.

Once you go all the way around, you sew over the end of the zipper, to finish it off. Be sure to back stitch at the start and the end of these seams at the zipper point.

You will also want to make sure the zipper is open before you finish sewing all the way around, otherwise you will not be able to turn it right side out!

Finally, turn your pillow right side out, insert pillow fill and zip pillow! TA DA!! Done!! Your corners will look something like this ... although this isn't the best picture, since I didn't pull it out so it looked straight.

And then the finished pillow!

Does it make sense?? I know you can do it!

Part two of the Urban home goods swap

2011-02-08T16:54:00.000-08:00

I am still waiting (but not patiently) for my oval embroidery hoop to arrive. Granted, it is coming from a long way away. I just want it now.

So, to tide me over until it's arrival, I decided to work on another project for my partner. I am using more of the Anna Maria Horner voiles, but this time, I am going to make a pillow! Now some of you asked for a tutorial for a pillow, but I did not take near enough pictures to do this. I totally forgot! Anyway, I will try and explain where I am at up to now, and then for the next few steps .. I will take more pictures. What's left is the harder part anyway.

So, I want my pillow to be around 20" square when I am done, so I started with 9 squares of fabric, that were 7.5 inches square.

I made them into one pile, and randomly cut a straight, but wonky line, 1/3 of the way from one of the edges. I took the top piece of fabric from the smaller side of fabrics, and put this on the bottom of the pile. Then, I sewed the squares back together. Now of course, this would likely make a lot more sense if I had actually taken pictures of what I did ... so again, sorry!

After sewing them all back together, I did this again and again until I had what looks like a tic tac toe board. I used some sashing, and joined them all together ... The sashing I used was 1.5 inches wide.

And then I layered this huge block, and quilted some straight lines ... It really just looks like a mini quilt pre-binding right??

The front is now done.

For the back, I also wanted to use voile, but it's so thin that I decided to just layer it, and do some wavy line quilting. So, I cut a 22 inch square, layered it, and did the quilting.

I then I squared off both the front and the back so they were the same size.

I am going to do some piping, and an invisible zipper, but I haven't got any cording at home. So, before I can show you the next steps ... I need to go get me some cording, and an invisible zipper. Of course, that isn't likely going to happen until Friday.

Snow day

2011-02-03T14:58:00.000-08:00

I think Mother Nature knew I needed a day off ...

We had some snow yesterday. Not as much as some places, but still a lot. Enough that I didn't want to go outside. This is the view out our front window ...

So, since I was home all day, I started a hoop project for yet another swap : ) I got the pattern from here.

Now all I need is the hoop! I ordered one about a week ago ... so I will show you again when it arrives. It's oval, so hopefully it fits okay. It was a bit of a guess ...

Hope to have a few more finishes to show you soon.

I really don't know what happened to the last week!

2011-01-27T15:14:00.000-08:00

I think this week just disappeared into a puff!

I can tell you that I completely scrapped the disaster that I started last week .. and I know you all agree that it is better that way! I now know that 1" half square triangles are completely a bad idea! Next time, I will do normal sized ones and they will be just fine.

Ok - since that was out of my system, I needed a new idea for a table runner, and I really didn't have one. So I went over to the Moda bake shop and picked this recipe. I made this one a little bigger than suggested .. but the top and back were done really fast. Now, I have it ready to quilt, and I should be done in no time! It used one charm pack, and I just happened to have a charm pack of fandango lying around! Perfect! Didn't even have to buy any fabric. I really liked the idea that I could use up some fabric I had already!

I also made myself a new scarf this week.

I think it looks a bit weird in this picture, but I have yet to master taking a picture of myself ... so this is all you can see right now. I think it's called an infinity scarf. Anyway, Anna Maria Horner sold these kits on her site with the material perfectly cut for these scarfs (18" x 72") = but of course they were all sold out.

I really really wanted one - so I just bought two yards of the velveteen and two yards of the voile. TOTALLY worth it! I love love love the scarf. Not only is it really warm, but it feels dreamy too! I actually have enough material to make 3 scarfs from what I bought. Perhaps one day I will get to that.

.

What was I thinking ...

2011-01-22T15:46:00.000-08:00

Next up in the crazy swapping life I am leading is the Spicing up the kitchen swap. Not that I have finished the other two, but I am getting pretty close on the other ones.

So .. I had this great idea to make a table runner. But, why didn't anyone tell me that teeny tiny squares are a really bad idea?? Not only is it an incredible amount of cutting and piecing. But you burn your fingers when you try and iron them!

Anyway - they don't look too bad when you look from a distance.

... but up close they are a bit of a disaster.

So now, I have to make a decision. Do I bail on this idea, and start with a fresh idea for a table runner. OR, do I stay with it and finish this off. My worry is that if I stay with it, I won't be proud to send it to my partner. Any advice would be welcome : )

I am going to walk away for today, and either continue with the madness tomorrow, or start fresh. I'll let you know ...

Next up ....

2011-01-18T15:27:00.000-08:00

... is the Scrappy Mug rug swap!! I almost finished two mug rug tops over the weekend. My secret partner had suggested quite a few different things, but one of the colour combos she mentioned was red and aqua. Well, I just so happen to have a lot of red and aqua!

I started by pulling out some fabrics, and next thing you know I had this!

I didn't really start with much of a plan, I just knew that those little owls needed to be a focal point.

And before I knew it, I had two tops almost done!!

I thought the the bottom of the two looked a little plain, so I fussy cut a few more of those owls, and turned them into hexies!!

Now I just have to sew those little hexies down, and get started on the quilting!

Technically, I think you only need to make one mug rug .. but they are so fast and easy to make, that I can't see harm in sending two!!

Swaps, swaps and more swaps!!

2011-01-16T16:12:00.000-08:00

A new year brings new swaps! I am totally addicted, and have committed to 3 new swaps. Right now I have sooo many ideas running through my mind that I keep flipping from one swap project to the next.

First up, is the potholder pass. The theme this time around is monotone. I picked blue ... and this is the inspiration that I gave my partner.

The secret partner I got picked brown. At first I thought I had minimal brown in my stash, but I am pretty sure I had more than enough. I have been working away, and I think I have the tops done!!

I am pretty happy with them, and I hope that my partner likes them too! I used the tutorial from Twin Fibres for the one on the left ... and just used left overs for the other one.

I will tell you about the other swaps soon : )

Failure

2011-01-15T11:14:00.000-08:00

I like to crochet ... and since my daughter started in competitive gymnastics, I am spending A LOT of time at the gym. I figured I better do something productive while I was there.

This week it was a failure.

The actual product looks great! But sadly it is totally too small.

I only brought the yarn and a crochet hook - no measuring tape. So when the pattern said that the hat should be 3 inches after the fourth round for the right size, I had to eyeball it. I thought it looked good ....

Oh well, I am going to start again, and this time use a bigger hook. And bring a measuring tape!

I guess my nephew just got a new hat ; )

Serger fun!

2011-01-08T06:04:00.000-08:00

In a couple of weeks I am going to take a class at The Workroom. It is a class to make a t-shirt! I am pretty excited about it. I have sewn lots and lots, but jersey, or any stretchy material has always scared the pants off me. It always ends up stretched and yucky.

So .... in preparation for the t-shirt class, I just took a one night serger essentials class. It was great! I know actually understand how the machine works, and can thread the beast with only small amounts of pain. I also think I will have that jersey beat. During the class we made some rolled hem napkins. I had no idea I could do this with such ease!! LOVE them. So much.

I have also been slowly working on sewing the corner triangles for the quilt a long.

When I started sewing the first triangle down I noticed a critical error. Sometimes I need to give myself a little slap and repeat the matra, measure twice cut once!! I made the grey trapezoids too small. GAH!! After beating myself up over it for about 8 minutes, I realized there is nothing I could do, so I will just re-draw the corner lines and go with it.

Oh well ... just means my squares are not going to be 12.5 inches each. They are going to be around 11 inches instead .... No one but us will know.

Finally ... on a side note. My sweet boy is 10 today. 10. It feels like yesterday that we were brand new parents with no idea how much love we would feel for this boy. We have a big day of skiing planned, and it's time to pack the car! Talk to you again soon.

Welcome to 2011

2011-01-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

The start of a brand new year ... love it! Time to start new lists and come up with some goals. I don't exactly make resolutions, but I do like to think where I want to be this time next year, so I suppose that's similar??

For this year, my goals include:

- finishing up more of my works in progress
- start using more of my stash fabrics
- continue to be healthy (eating and exercise); generally I am pretty good, but we can all be better right??

I think that's it for now ... we will see where we are this time next year : )

Anyway - I have been in Ottawa the last few days, and we had a grand time. Lots of time spent in hockey rinks, but we did have time to visit the Parliament buildings.

We got home last night, but I have been hard at work on my quilt a long in between loads of laundry! Here are a few pictures of my progress.

You will have to excuse the mess in the background. We haven't taken the tree down yet as sewing was more important, and this is the only spot that was big enough to lay out the whole quilt. Hahahaha!

Well - here's to a great 2011!!

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-28T15:17:00.000-08:00

We sure had a great Christmas, and boy has it been busy around here. I hope you all had a great Christmas too - and if you don't celebrate Christmas, I hope that you at least enjoyed some well deserved time off.

I am not going to be around much for the next week or so. We are off to Ottawa for a hockey tournament. The bags are packed, and we are ready to go.

I thought I would show you a picture of our bags, so I have something somewhat crafty in this post. I used the Amy Butler "Weekender Bag" pattern to make that top one.

I just love that bag!! I made it about a year ago, and it has even gone through the wash (hence the reason why it slouches). Overall, it was a fairly easy pattern to make - although there were a couple of spots where you had to sew through MANY layers of fabric and interfacing all at once. I know that I broke a few needles along the way, but other than that, there were no major mishaps.

The house is a pure disaster, and at this point, we have no time left to worry about it before we go! Kinda crummy that we will come home to a messy house ... so perhaps I should go and clean a little???

Anyway, Santa was good to all of us, and since I made one more last minute gift, I will show you that too. A camera strap for my SIL. She is an AMAZING photographer ... and she has one hefty camera that she lugs around everywhere. Now she can have a little more comfort around her neck.

Anyway - all the best to everyone for the new year ... and we will chat again in 2011!!

A last minute gift, and the realization that minkee is messy

2010-12-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

I decided earlier this month that I wasn't going to sew a ton of Christmas gifts this year. BUT, a couple of days ago I saw a really cute dress. I would love to give credit for where I saw this really cute dress ... but of course now I can't find it : (

Anyway ... it was from a pattern made over here.

Of course, one thing led to another, and the next thing you know, I had purchased a pdf pattern! I have a neice who is 1 and a half, and I thought this would be so super cute on her.

I started this last night, and to be honest it sewed up really fast. I used a 21 wale courdorouy for the outside, and a minkee type fleece for the inside. I had no idea how messy (aka evil) that minkee would be. I am literally covered from head to toe right now with white fuzz. So is the outside of the vest! I took pictures so you could see what I mean.

I am about to throw it in the wash to get rid of the fuzz ...

Now that I have been sidetracked, and have successfully completed the project, I am going back to the quilt a long : )

Happy Birthday to me : )

2010-12-19T18:30:00.000-08:00

Today is my birthday : ) YIPPEE!! I like my birthday this year - next year, perhaps not so much. This year, I turned 39. I have no idea why the idea of 40 kinda freaks me out, but it does. I am full of great food, and ice cream cake, and almost ready to snuggle in for the night with a good book!

I actually did not sew today ... I was a cutting and crocheting fool.

I cut out all the squares for Cara's quilt a long from these:

and from these:

I now have 42 squares .. one step closer to starting to sew. I still need to cut the lattice strips and the background.

I have to tell you, I had a hard time when I thought about cutting them. I have been collecting (or rather hoarding), and these are some of my most sacred beauties. But we buy fabric to use it right?? I am still telling myself this over and over. It was a little liberating to cut into it. AND I still have tons left, so I will have more to use for lots more projects.

I will tell you more about the crocheting another day : )

Have a great night!

It's time to pick a winner ....

2010-12-18T04:08:00.000-08:00

So, before I actually tell you who the winner is, I just want to say again that I am so super pleased that so many people came by and gave some pillow love. I started blogging not realizing what it would do for me. I have met some great people, I have sewn things that are totally outside my comfort zone, and I have had sewing encouragement and support!

So, without futher ado, the winner of the pillow is:

comment #136: Maxwells

The winner of the Nicey Jane fat Quarters is:

comment # 384: Anne

And, the winner of the Sanctuary half yards is:

comment # 95: Barncat

Thanks to everyone that entered!! I am off to email the winners now, but if you see your name, please feel free to contact me with your mailing info.

I had a couple requests for a pattern/tutorial .. and I actually don't have pictures to make one up, but maybe we can do a new pillow loosely based on this one in the new year?????

So ... I am well over 300!!

2010-12-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

458!!!! That is so far above my expectations. I wasn't even really sure I would hit 300 comments to be honest. Thanks so much for showing my pillow some love.

Since it is more than 50% above the 300 comments I was hoping for, I am going to give more away than I had planned. I am also going to leave this open until midnight tonight ... so the winners will be announced sometime tomorrow. Likely not until the afternoon.

If you haven't entered yet, please scroll down and make a comment on the post below (not this one).

So - here are the other two (you heard me) prizes I am going to add to the pillow, so we will have 3 lucky winners.

(3 fat quarters of nicey jane)

(2 half yards of Santuary)

Talk to you all tomorrow!!

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day!!!

2010-12-12T16:23:00.000-08:00

Sew Mama Sew was the reason why I started blogging. I really owe a huge thanks to them! I have met some wonderful people through blogging, and it all started because of Sew Mama Sew!

Anyway ... on to the good stuff! I am giving away this fabulous pillow cover. For ease of mailing, I am not going to send the pillow form, but they are easy enough to pick up on your own.

All you need to do is leave me a comment (international peeps are welcome too). If you want an extra entry, you can become a follower - but you don't have to. If you are already a follower - then just let me know!

I will leave this open until December 17th, and then Mr. Random Number Generator will pick a lucky winner.

If I get more than 300 comments, then I may just have another little prize since I already feel bad that not everyone can win. Perhaps some fabric love????? I haven't got a picture, since I really don't know if we will reach 300, but I promise I will pick out something nice.

Now, please make sure I have a way to reach you if you win. If you have a no reply comment, then just include your email. Thanks for dropping buy and GOOD LUCK!

A discovery!

2010-12-09T15:24:00.000-08:00

Our family lives in a house that was built in 1849. It has been slowly updated over the last 12 years. Room by room.

A couple of weeks ago, we decided to re-do our son's room. We had painted it before he was born, but there was a blue carpet in the room that looked to be in okay shape, so we left it.

Well, this past weekend, we repainted his room, and we decided to replace the carpet with hardwood knowing that the hardwood under the carpet was probably in pretty bad shape.

My husband ripped the carpet up tonight and look what was underneath!

Someone spent a ridiculous amount of time hand painting the floor! Now, we are still going to replace it - it is totally not something that we would keep = but I thought I would show you all just for fun. Here are a few more close ups.

Each one of them is different! Crazy! Now, please excuse the dirt - I wasn`t going to clean before taking the pictures knowing full well it was about to be ripped out!

Now, I haven`t done a whole lot since the last time I posted. I had to finish up the secret santa project - and I didn`t really do anything else until it was done. I told you about that I think. Here is the finished project.

Now that it`s finished, I am ready to start Cara`s quilt a long!!! FUN!!
If only the fabric I ordered had arrived ....

Pillows are done!

2010-11-28T17:49:00.000-08:00

I have finally finished both pillows. I should really stop making two pillows for this swap, since it just makes my life more difficult! It makes me have to choose which one to send.

I am 99% sure I am going to send this one:

It got a lot more love in the flickr pool. But, just to show you the other one:

I was really quite proud of myself on these pillows. I not only put in piping, but, I also put in an invisible zipper! I have put in both piping and an invisible zipper before, but never both together. I do have to say there may have been some curse words that left my mouth, but I think it looks just great.

I also got my very first custom sewing job. One of my daughter's friends has asked Santa for a purple house coat, with polka dots. Her mom has searched high and low for one to fit the bill, but can't seem to find one anywhere. So, I am sewing one. FUN! Let me tell you, it wasn't all that easy to find fabric either. The craziest part is that this sewing job has to be done after hours since my daughter can't see me sewing it.

To all of you in the U.S., I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving!!

I changed my background

2010-11-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

As you can see - I changed my background in blogger. I may change it back, I don't know yet. Will you tell me if you hate it? Or love it?

The reason I changed it was because of the pictures. In the layout that I had before, the right side of pictures was always cut off. Totally annoyed me.

I don't really have much to say today, but I can show you what I have been playing with lately.

This machine has been sitting in my parents basement for the tons of years. I know it's been a really long time because the instruction video was on a VHS tape!! HAHAHA. My mom had never even opened the box. I decided to break it in for her. Let me tell you, threading that bad boy is a challenge. I almost gave up about 8 times, but in the end I prevailed.

I ended up serging the edge of the pillows that I am making right now. FUN! Now I am trying to dream up more things to make, just so I can use it more. I don't really have a finished picture yet, but I have finished one pillow. I even put in piping and an invisible zipper! Right now it is raining and dark, so I will try to show you soon.

Have a great night!

Trying a new background for pictures.

2010-11-20T13:39:00.000-08:00

I have always been a little envious of people who take really great pictures. My pictures are "meh" most of the time. I know that good light is key, and that is my biggest problem. Natural light obviously is better than not. I also understand that my backgrounds could be better ... the floor, the counter ... B O R I N G.

So I am trying something new. What do you think?

The subject isn't all that interesting. It's just the piping that I have prepared, but not yet sewn into the pillow for the pillow talk swap. I think I like it. You may be seeing more of it around here.

I can also show you a few mugrugs. They seem to be all the rage right now. You see them everywhere! I have sent out a couple recently. Two went to my swap partner in the scrappy mug rug swap, and two went out on a side swap.

I should have my pillows done soon, so I should be able to show you some progress before you know it.

Pillows!!!

2010-11-12T13:12:00.000-08:00

Everyone needs a good pillow. The more you have, the better. I especially love making new pillows since it can totally change your look without a ton of work. Actually I think I may be due for some new pillows myself, which is perfect timing, since I joined the pillow talk swap on flickr.

Once again, it's a secret swap, but this time my partner doesn't know who I am, so I can share. She did say that she likes bright and modern, but I don't think that gives away too much since a lot of people feel the same way. She didn't add much more than that, so time for lots of creative freedom on this one!

I didn't plan ahead very much. I knew I wanted to do smallish squares, so I started cutting. As I was cutting I started laying them out on a piece of white fabric.

And because I cut too many, I also started laying them out on top of a ruler.

I thought they both had potential, so I made two pillows. So far, this is what I have.

Please excuse the dark pictures from last night, and the late afternoon shadows from today! I figured outside was better than inside - even with the shadows. It shows the colours much better, but there are a lot of shadows.

I am pretty pleased with both pillows so far. I will just have to decide when they are done which one to send! Which one do you like better?

I have received my placemats!!

2010-11-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

My placemat swap is now complete. I received some FANTASTIC placemats from Lael today. I LOVE THEM SOOOOO MUCH! The little fish, the linen, the handstiching. Perfection.

Now, I sent her some too. I totally forgot to take pictures before I sealed the envelope. But - Lael just posted some, so I hope she doesn't mind me posting them.

She had requested circles, red and blue. I tried my best to incorporate all those things when I was doing them.

Anyway - so much for posting every day huh?? How about I try 3 times a week?? That may be a little more realistic : )

potholders

2010-11-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

I received my potholders today in the potholder pass!!

AND there are two cute little hexie ornaments too.

Aren't they great?? The craziest thing is, I had the same partner in this swap as I did in the Savvy Seasons Swap!!! Two totally different swaps, organized by different people = with tons of participants, AND she got me twice. huh.

Anyway, I am thrilled because I think they are just fab!

I also worked a little more on my scrappy mug rug swap. I made another front (modified cathedral windows from a tutorial over at Spotted stones). I am really happy with the front - but the quilting I did on the front looks weird on the back because I clearly need a lesson in lining things up!

Ignore the binding that I haven't sewn down yet : )

Anyway - I tried picking out the quilting - but it just left very visable holes in the fabric (I know they were tiny - but you could totally see them) ... so I just left it. I am not sure if I may just keep this one for myself with all its faults - and make another one just like it.

Alright - I am off for a full hockey weekend!! Talk to you next week.

NaBloPoMo

2010-11-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

So are you game?? NaBloPoMo - or in other words, National Blog Posting Month??

I heard about it on Kerri Lynn's Blog "Freckled Whimsy". I don't know if I have that much to say. And I know that I won't be able to blog every day this month. I am leaving Friday for an away hockey tournament for my son. But, nonetheless, I am going to try and blog a little more than I have over the last little bit.

I will start by showing a partial finish, and a start that I didn't mean to make.

You know that I have been enjoying my swaps lately. So, I will tell you that I have two more on the go. For the mug rug swap, my partner didn't post a mosaic, but she did provide some ideas. She said that she liked bright colours. I thought about a lattice type mug rug. I looked through my stash, and picked these fabrics:

You will notice that I had cut up some squares?? WELL .. this is where the "start" that I didn't mean to make comes in. Apparently I don't know how to calculate things very well ... and didn't take into account that it takes four squares to make one block. I figured out my final size based on 1 square, not 4 - so my final result is 4 times the size it was suppossed to be:

Maybe I can use this as a pillow instead!

So then, I made the right size ... and here is a little mug rug - front and back, obviously not finished. I still have to put some side borders on the front.

Maybe if I can think of something to say tomorrow ... you will see me again : )

hemming a pair of jeans near killed me ....

2010-10-29T15:06:00.000-07:00

My husband asked me really nicely if I would hem a pair of jeans for him. I said sure, I should be able to do that!

I think he asked me 3 weeks ago, and for some reason I was scared (it may have had something to do with the last time I tried to hem a pair of jeans).
Anyway, about 3 days ago, I started by measuring the length, then I cut carefully, ironed and pinned again .. then the adventure began.
To make a long story short, I broke 3 needles, ripped it out about 4 times and let them sit for 3 days before I defeated them! I have successfully hemmed, and I hope I never hem again.

Now, on to something better ... I received my Savvy Seasons Swap Present!!!

I went to the post office to pick up the mail ... and low and behold there was a package for me!!! A package that looked suspiciously like something that may be a handmade item??? I thought to myself ... could it be?????

To be honest, I could barely contain myself ... I wanted to rip open the package in the parking lot with my teeth. It was a probably a good thing that there was sooo much tape on it!! It made me race home and frantically take pictures before destroying the package. I used brute strength, and some teeth, and then finally grabbed some scissors to wrestle the package open. I paused briefly to take a picture of a great ornament and wrapping job.

I read the note quickly, because my mom always told me that it was rude if you ripped the wrapping off first, then I tore off the wrapping paper like a 3 year old (little bits may have been flying into the air).

There were some giggles, some girly hand clapping, and even a little squeek, when I saw what was inside.

I am super pleased with everything, and want to send out a huge THANKS to my swap partner!!

Hope you all have a great weekend!!

some sneek peeks

2010-10-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

So much of what I have been working on lately, is for semi secret swaps. Semi-secret because I know who my partner is, and they know who I am. We chat about likes and dislikes, and can show sneek peeks - but the final product can't be revealed until the partner receives the goods. This way there is an element of surprise involved.

So ... since I can't show you the whole thing, here are some peeks.

I am almost ready to mail them off ... so in a couple of weeks, once they reach their destination - I will show you the goods.

Creative Festival

2010-10-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

I went to the Creative Festival in Toronto last night. It's a yearly fall event at the Convention Centre that has supplies for Quilting, beading, scrapbooking and stamping. I am sure there are other things too = but you get the idea.

They have lots of vendors, and I went to "look" around. Of course I couldn't leave without a few purchases.

I have been doing lots of little projects for swapping, but since they are semi secret swaps - I can't show you!! We are matched with partners, and can chat amongst ourselves and show sneek peeks - but can't show the finished product until it has been received.

Other than that, I did start this last night. It's going to be a pincushion. As you can see - I still have lots of handstitching to do. I am really slow at handstitching, but I really enjoy it!

More finishes!!!

2010-10-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

I have finished up my potholders and the ornament to go along with them for the potholder pass.

After all my anxiety about the hand embroidered one, I actually really like it! I suppose I just needed to walk away for a bit after all! Hopefully my secret partner will love it.

I also have a little picture I can share now. As part of the Savvy seasons swap where I sent off the placemats, I also included a little scottie dog (pattern is free from the Denyse Schmidt website). I was nervous to share it before, just in case my secret partner happened by my blog (doubtful, but you never know!!). She has a thing for scottie dogs, and I wanted it to be a super fun surprise.

Next up, I have more placemats to finish for a not so secret swap (so I can't show pictures until my partner receives them), and two little mug rugs ... then another pillow swap!! Kinda overcommitted, but LOVING every second.

phew ... it's been a busy couple of days!

2010-10-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

Wow! The last 4 days have flown by in a crazy flurry of activity. It was Thanksgiving weekend in Canada - so we spent the weekend with family and doing some serious overeating. WHY do I do that to myself every single time??

Anyway - I did not get tons done on the sewing front, but I did finish up the baby quilt.

She LOVED it! Yippee!! I don't know about you, but I always get sooooo nervous when I give something that I made to people. I wonder if they will really like it, or just pretend so they don't hurt my feelings. Anyway, it's not huge - only about 45" squarish (I know that's not a word but I like adding "ish"), and I am pretty happy with the end result. I also love that I used up a whole bunch of scraps!

I got the potholders for the potholder swap closer to done too. I just have to sew the bindings down.

Have a great day!! And Happy late Thanksgiving to my fellow Canadians out there!!

baby quilt in a day ...

2010-10-08T08:36:00.000-07:00

Well, not quite a day! But close!

My kids attend a before and after school program. Since both my husband and I work, it's a necessity as we can't really leave them to fend for themselves at 7 and 9.

So the wonderful Amy who takes care of our kids, is about to start a new adventure into mommyhood. She is due to have her first little angel on October 25th. Silly me thinking I had lots of time to make this little boy a quilt, suddenly realized TODAY is her last day at work!! So I frantically started making a quilt. It's not done, but it's close.

I based the quilt on the tutorial for a pillow by Elizabeth at Oh Frannson!

I had lots of scraps left over from another project, so I didn't even have to buy fabric ... and here is a little sneak peak.

I'll post more pictures when it's done ...

I have to get back to it ... only a few hours to go!!

Potholders

2010-10-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you I joined a potholder swap?? I think I did. Anyway, I started working on a potholder this weekend.

When I first started, I thought I had this fabulous idea ... and when I started, I really liked it = but then it didn't really look at all like what I had imagined. Does that ever happen to you??

In fact - I really kinda hated it. But, since it took a little bit of time to do the hand stiching, I figured I may as well continue on ...

Now, it looks a little better, and I don't hate it anymore ... but I am still not really sure. I think I need to walk away from it for a bit. Sometimes that makes you like it again : )

A purse and a finish

2010-09-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

First of all .. I know you may be sick of seeing the christmas tree placemats, especially since it is only September. But, they are finally finished!! So I will show one to you for the last time. I have a couple of other things in the works for my partner too, which I will show a peek of later.

I am pretty happy with them. I really hope my swap partner loves them too!

I also finished a bag or purse ... not sure what to call it actually. I don't think I would use this as a purse, probably more in addition to my purse when I had lots of stuff to carry!! I am really happy with how it turned out!

I learned a new technique for this bag. I put in grommets for the first time, and let me tell you, punching holes right in the middle of the fabric you just spent time sewing together is mighty scary. I put on leather handles that can be removed and put to another bag. Or at least that's how the lady at the store convinced me to buy handles that were ridiculously expensive!!

If I were going to make another one for someone else, I would have to come up with a different solution for the handles. They cost more than the material. That seems a bit crazy doesn't it?

Well ... I am off to sew : )

Quilting the placemats and a sleepy visitor

2010-09-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

I am almost finished quilting the placemats. I decided to use the Essex Linen on the back. I hope it isn't too plain, but it's too late now! I didn't take any pictures of the back, but here are some pictures of the front.

Now I just have to pick the binding material. I am thinking this print by cosmo cricket. What do you think???

So, yesterday, while I was inside sewing, my dog started barking like a crazy freak. Now he occasionally barks at the odd dog walking by, but this was crazy barking. So I went outside, and saw this little fellow snuggled in the crook of the tree. Murphy really wanted to eat this raccoon up, not realizing that raccoons can be vicious fellas. I am glad that he was safely up in the tree!

This raccoon slept up there (and it was really high - like 30+ feet high) for the entire day. I can't believe it didn't fall out. He must have really wedged in there.

Hope you have a great day!

Potholder pass anyone??

2010-09-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of a swap .. and I have joined up in two so far. So, when I saw this new swap starting up for it's 5th round, I jumped right in!

The idea on this swap is to make two potholders, and a christmas ornament for a secret partner. I can't wait to get started!

Just as an aside, I don't understand why some pictures get chopped off a little on the right hand side. Does anyone know how to fix that?

I won't be getting my partner info until next week, but I have created a mosaic to inspire my would be partner. I am still working away on my swap items for the savy seasons swap, but I am getting closer to finishing those off. I will show more pictures of those soon.

For some reason, the description linking to the owners of these pictures is not coming up properly - but if you click on the picture, they should show up. Not all the pictures are of potholders, or of ornaments, but it sure puts me in the festive mood!

More progress ...

2010-09-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

I have been working on odds and ends today, and have made a little more progress on the placemats for my savy seasons partner. I had someone ask about how I made the trees, and I will try my best to do a little tutorial soon. I just didn't really take any pictures when I was doing them, so it may take me a few days. That being said, I should give credit where credit is due!! I did use the idea from the little forest quilt over at the purl bee (although my sizes are a little different, it's the exact same concept so they deserve the credit!).

At this point I can't decide what fabric to use for the back. At first, I was going to use a fun Christmas fabric, but now I am leaning towards more of the Essex Linen that I used on the front. I am going to sleep on it for a few days. The deciding factor may end up being if I have enough of the Essex Linen for the backs of 4 placemats.

I also worked a little on a "mini" Christmas tree skirt. I got this tutorial over at the Moda bakeshop. It ended up a lot bigger than I thought it would, but hopefully it will still work. I am having sooo much fun making these Christmas items for my partner.

I would love to give a HUGE thank you to Ruth at Sew Love Fabrics, and also Rachel at Stiched in Color, where I won this awesome 1/2 yard bundle of Christmas fabrics.

See you soon ...

TA DA! Christmas trees

2010-09-16T17:29:00.000-07:00

I know that you knew they were Christmas trees, but I thought you would want to see them.

It took much longer than I thought it would to finish these little trees. There was lots of finicky trimming to make sure they were all squared up, and all the same size.

It was totally worth it. I love these little trees. Now, off to make them into something.

progress ...

2010-09-13T16:22:00.001-07:00

Well ... a little progress has been made. Can you tell where this is going??

My partner in the Savy Seasons swap has a Christmas theme, so I am thinking these are going to turn into some placemats. I have lots of other ideas too, but not sure if they are going to come to fruition. I will be sure to show you when/if they do.

I actually created a mosaic of the things I liked for my secret partner. Pretty cool stuff huh?

There are so many talented people in this swap! I have to say it is a little intimidating at times. I want to make sure that I make something that my partner is happy with, but that isn't too much out of my comfort zone! I think I have a pretty great partner, so I am hoping to make them something they will enjoy and use!

Anyway, other than this, not much going on in my little crafty world. With the kids heading back to school, and sports starting up again, my sewing time is disappearing!! I am missing the laid back easy going non-schedule of summer already.

I really good when I have a purpose.

2010-09-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

Or even better, I am really good with a deadline : )

I joined a swap called "The SavVy { Seasons } - a modern Swap" on flickr. This is the second swap that I have joined where you make something for a "secret" partner. The first one that I joined was a pillow swap.

I must say, IT IS SOOOOO FUN! It challenges you to work with someone else's likes and dislikes = which may or may not be the same as yours. And you also get a surprise in return. How cool is that???

I got my partner info today, and the stalking (in a good way) and the sewing has begun!! My partner opted for a Christmas theme. So ... I have started with this:

Did lots of slicing, and now I have this:

Stay tuned!! I see lots of christmasy fun coming!!

Done!

2010-09-06T07:10:00.001-07:00

Hey!! I finally finished something!! From start to finish, without doing anything else!!

I used an Oliver + S pattern called "a day in the park backpack tote". It makes a fun little bag. It can be used as a tote, or as a backpack. It has two pockets on the inside, one of which has a zipper. I love it!! I have to say that this pattern was so easy to follow. Sometimes when I follow a pattern, I have to read each step over and over and over, and still kinda wing it. NOT with this pattern! It is written in a language I understand.

I had a little helper ...

He slept beside me pretty much all day in a little patch of sunshine.

dots are fun ...

2010-09-04T17:47:00.000-07:00

I started working on another new project - because who doesn't need even more wips?? I was flipping through the book called "make" by Cath Kidson, and got inspired.

I have never done applique before, but it seems to be working ..

I just have 30 or so more to sew on ...

I am feeling scattered

2010-08-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't made much lately ... I am feeling scattered. Do you ever feel like that?

I have at least 17 different things in my brain that I want to make, but I don't know which one I want to do right now, which means I am not really doing anything!!

I started making this shirt ... I modified the socalite dress pattern by Anna Maria Horner into a shirt ... but I am not feeling it. It's not the pattern. It's not the material - I really like both - it's just me. It's almost done, and I just don't feel like sewing that.

So, since I have 3 other quilts on the go right now, It made a lot of sense to then pull out a whole slew of pink fabrics to make a baby quilt right?? hmmmm ....

I spent the better part of the afternoon at work drawing quilt designs. I think I am going to just do it anyway .. even though it makes no sense.

A coin purse for camp

2010-08-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

My daughter (and son) are both at summer camp this week. When my daughter came home today, she asked if I could make her a coin purse to put her money for tuck shop in. Sure!! I love that I could whip it up pretty fast, and maybe show a little tutorial here too!!

She choose the materials:

She was insistent that the stripes be on the outside and the flowers on the inside. AND she wanted the blue zipper.

I cut the fabric to 5 x 8 inches, and just made sure the zipper was a little longer than the short side (I think it was a 7" zipper). I also cut a piece of fusible interfacing the same size.

First, I ironed the interfacing to the striped fabric, just to give it a little more stiffness.

Then I centred the zipper on the striped fabric at the top (shorter) edge and using a zipper foot, sewed the zipper to the fabric.

This my friends is where things went wrong ... do you know what I did wrong??? Well - I forgot about the little girl who wanted a lining in her coin purse!! Oh well ... I didn't feel like ripping things out, so I finished it up anyway - then made another one after with a lining!! She was okay with a red zipper instead, since I didn't have a blue one left. oops - serves me right for trying to "whip" something up!!

So, anyway, after sewing the first side of the zipper on, you fold the fabric up, with right sides together, and sew the zipper to the other side of the fabric. Here, you want to make sure the sides of the fabric line up.

Okay. Next, you sew up one of the sides. I sewed a couple of times over the zipper just to give it a little strength.

Finally, you need to sew up the other side = but = make sure you open up the zipper first so you can turn it the right way out!! Before you flip it right side out, you just need to clip the zipper, and the corners too, and then you are DONE!!

Since I wanted to make another with a lining, the instructions are the same, just first, I sewed the two pieces of fabric together (leaving a little spot to turn the fabric the right way), and I also made the zipper part way down the coin purse.

She loved both, so I would say my mess up worked out just fine : ) Now - I just need to re-paint her nails and we are good.

A little of this a little of that ...

2010-08-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

So ... It's been a bit of a slow week for the completion of anything. I was back at work after two weeks of vacation, so that always puts a major damper on the production of sewing. I figured I should drop in anyway and write a little post. I wouldn't want to have you thinking I was lost forever!!

I did manage to work on my quilt a long quilt. I am behind again, but ... I will make it eventually. I have all the strips completed, but I have to sew them on to finish the top.

This quilt was a bit of a beast. Lots of little squares, and lots of sewing. I am looking forward to having this one behind me.

Then I was working on a couple of napkins from the tutorial on Sewtakeahike's blog. I haven't finished those either ... but I have finished one. I guess if I was having dinner by myself, I would be good : )

I don't even have a good picture of this one napkin!!

You know, if there is one thing I have learned during this blogging adventure, it's that I can not take very good pictures. I think they will get better over time, but the majority of my pictures are taken inside, and at night, and that my friends makes it very hard to get anything that looks good.

Going to a shower today ...

2010-08-08T07:03:00.000-07:00

One of my girlfriends is having her very first baby - a little girl. She is due in September .. and I can not wait! I did some baby girl sewing yesterday and I just love love love it!!

First, I made a diaper clutch using this tutorial from Noodlehead. It was soooo super easy. The hardest part of the whole thing was getting the linen to cooperate. I find that linen likes to move around and get all bent out of shape. I just used the iron and tons of starch, but still tricky!!

Then I used the itty bitty dress pattern from Made by Rae.

I did make a few little adjustments. I did some top stiching around the top, and zigzagged the seams ... just a couple of little things that she did not mention in the pattern, but I am sure that most people would do!!

Then, I made a cute little pair of bloomers to go underneath the dress. I have no idea if they will even fit - but they look super cute!!

When my daughter was born, I did not really sew anything for her. I did lots of knitting and crocheting, but no sewing. ALMOST makes me want another baby. I suppose I can be satisfied making for other beautiful babies.

A quick messenger bag

2010-08-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

So, on Monday, my daughter got invited to a last minute birthday party. Instead of buying the entire gift, we decided (or shall we say I decided), that a little messenger bag would be really cute. We could then go and buy a couple of little things to put inside the bag. There is nothing like saving a little money!! More money to spend on fabric perhaps???

The party was on Tuesday at 3. I started making the bag at about 11 ... And sure enough, I had lots of time! I was finished by about 1:30.

I used the pattern in the One yard wonders book.

I used a blue polka dot canvas for the outside of the bag. I picked this up on sale at IKEA for $2.99 a metre.

Then, my daughter picked a stripe that I got from Fabric.com during that Westiminister sale. I think it was $3.95/yard.

The pattern was pretty simple, although I did have to use the handy seam ripper. I am not sure if it was me, trying to go to fast, or if the directions could have been a little clearer. When I was sewing the lining into the bag, I put the flap and the strap on the wrong side of the seam I was sewing. It ended up being inside the lining instead of outside ... so I had to rip it out and start again. Oops.

In the end, I think it turned out pretty cute??

The birthday girl seemed pleased with it - so really, that's all that matters!!

I heart Nani Iro

2010-07-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

So ... I really really really love Nani Iro fabric, and I recently purchased her sewing book. It has been mocking me while it sits looking really pretty. I wanted to make the beautiful tunic dress (but a shirt version)on the front cover of the book - but being honest with myself I wasn't sure I could do it!!

I scoured the internet for tutorials, and I stalked peoples photostreams on flickr, but alas, there were none to be found. Lots of people had made the tunic, but no one wrote about it : (

So, I decided Japanese or not - I know a bit about sewing, I am going to try it!! I am going to share my journey. Not that this is by any means a full tutorial, but there is some pictures as we go.

So, first thing first, here is the book:

And these are the two pages with the pattern instructions. There are lots of pictures, but .. I being honest, I am really not sure I understand them.

Then .. I pull out the page with the actual pattern - YIKES!!

Okay, maybe it's not that bad. I can find two of the 3 pieces no problem - but the third one is no where to be found. It is that long skinny piece. NOT Anywhere. I looked for like half an hour. It is not there. So I made one. I had no idea if it would work like it was suppossed to, but since I can't read the directions, I figure, I will never really know what I am suppossed to do.

Okay, then, somewhere on the internet .. I read that you have to add in your own seam allowances, so I marked every little bit, and then played connect the dots. Now we are getting somewhere!!

The next part was simple - pin and cut out the pattern.

Now, the one thing I can say for sure, there is TONS of waste!! That means scraps for another project??? Another thing I know for sure ... I need to make sure that I look at what is in the background when I try to take pictures!! Nice coathangers : )

Okay. Step 1: NO CLUE is what is running through my head. Shoot. I just cut out my lovely double gauze Nani Iro fabric, and I have NO CLUE!! So ... I winged it. I folded over one edge of the long skinny piece like the picture showed, and then sewed it right sides facing to the piece that looked like it would go over the shoulders.

Then I folded that piece over, so there was a nice piece of fabric on the inside of the neck line, and sewed that in place. It sort of looks like the picture, but I am not really sure that this is what you are supposed to do???

Okay. Step 2: Okay, there is no step two in the instructions! What?? Okay, it does show a picture of steps 1-3 all together, so from this, I figure that I have to sew the top two pieces to the bottom two pieces. I didn't take a picture of this for some reason ... but it was fairly straight forward. I also sewed the back of the two neck pieces together so it was attached at the back, but not at the front. I also didn't take a picture of this for some reason.

Step 3: I zigzaged everywhere ... along the seams that were just sewn, and also along the outer edges of everything.

Step 4: Sew along the sides of the shirt/tunic (the long sides), so now it actually looks like a shirt.

Step 5: Based on the pictures, I figure you are suppossed to make a pretty seam around the armhole, then sew at the bottom to re-inforce it. Finally, it looks like you are to do a topstitch along the edges of the zigzaged portion to sew it down.

Step 6: Hem the bottom, and ta da!! Done!!

I don't think it turned out too bad .. in fact, I think this one is a keeper!! Phew!!

All in all, I think that I WILL make more from this book ... I am pretty happy with the overall result.

and ... they are home : )

2010-07-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

... the kids that is ...

It's been a quick two weeks!! It is once again, LOUD, in our house and so far, I am loving every minute of it. The kids had lots of fun, but I think they were ready to come home and sleep in their own beds ...

On a little crafty note, the table runner was a hit. I was able to finish up the binding on the drive up, and managed to sneak a couple of shots of it in it's place:

I really don't think Murphy wanted to come home. He spent the ENTIRE weekend chasing ducks. He did not catch them (thank goodness), but he tried really hard. The ducks were such a tease. They knew exactly when to take off ... but ... they kept coming back!!

Since we have been home, he has barely lifted his head from the floor. Tired him out.

I will just leave you with a couple more shots that were taken over the weekend ..

Have a great day ...

A little table runner ...

2010-07-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

My kids have been up North with Nana for the last week, and will be there all this week too. They are having a fantastic time, and I thought that a little present for Nana was in order. She loves every minute of her time with the grandkids, but, lets be honest - watching a 7 and 9 year old can be hard work!!

Of course - I decided this on the weekend, while I had my feet up relaxing on a crate/table/footstool, and had no access to a sewing machine. You see, right now, Nana has 4 placemats in the centre of this crate/table/footstool thing. It was screaming out to me - YOU NEED TO MAKE A TABLE RUNNER FOR RIGHT HERE!!

Since we are heading back up on Friday, I really didn't have a lot of time!!

I drew up a little template while I was at work yesterday, but of course, I kinda lost track of the pattern somewhere in the middle since I left the template on my desk (good place for it right?). I started with this little pile of fabrics:

I used Kona cotton, and Essex Linen (natural).

I decided to use a little tutorial from Oh Fransson! a.k.a. Elizabeth Hartman over on Sew Mama Sew.

I ironed the pieces onto a piece of fusible interfacing:

Then, I folded them at the appropriate spots, and then sewed with a 1/4 inch seam. You then have to cut the interfacing and iron. When I first started, I wasn't sure it was going to be faster, but, I tell you, it took no time at all!!! It really helped make sure things were lined up nice and square, and there was no stopping once you had the ironing done. Just sewed it all up sooooo super fast.

Before I knew it, I had this done:

Then, tonight when I got home from work, I was able to finish it up, and make my quilt sandwich!!!

Now all I have to do is some quilting, and the binding. Since the drive up to the cottage is 2.5 hours - I think I should be good!! I am thinking some straight line quilting .... Does that sound good? I guess I need to decide what colour to do the binding too ... hmmm ... maybe brown??? I am not sure.

wow! It's been busy around here ...

2010-07-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

but sadly ... not so much with crafty goodness : (

My kids are up North at Nana's cottage for the next two weeks, which is great and sad at all the same time. It means that I have lots of free time in the evenings, and it means that they get to spend some serious quality time with Nana = but it means that I don't get to see their smiling faces and get squishy kisses and hugs. It also means that I should get some stuff done in the evenings after work, like cleaning and all the other fun stuff that usually takes a back seat.

We left early Saturday morning to take them up there, and we had a great weekend filled with sunshine, swimming and eating well!! But = no sewing. Our next two weekends will also be spent up North, so I will try and bring my camera next weekend to get some pictures.

We didn't get home until late Sunday night, and after working all day Monday, I did NOTHING but sit on the couch last night. THEN, I woke up this morning in a serious fog. I feel really crumby!! Kinda think I may have picked up some illness. I have a headache and I don't like it. BOO : (

I have however, managed to catch up to week 5 in the quilt along. Since week 6 instructions were posted yesterday, I would say I have caught up!!

Also, since I like lots of pictures, I thought I would show some pictures of Murphy. He is one beautiful hunk of furry love, and since I posted pictures of Henry a while back, I figured Murphy deserved his time too!!

I also wanted to mention that I have received a few more of my swap fabrics!! I don't have pictures to show, but thanks to Nancy, Nettie, Sarah and Stephanie!! I hope I didn't miss anyone - I have done lots of swapping with some seriously fabulous ladies!!!

It was a good mail day today!!

2010-07-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

Over the last little while I have ordered a lot of fabric, and I have swapped a lot of fabric. Well ... none of it had come, so I had started moaning to whoever would listen about customs. I was honestly starting to get worried about some of it. Perhaps someone hijacked my lovelies??? BUT .. then I went to the post office today. It was a good day!! I take back most of the bad things that I said.

Now, I didn't get everything yet, which makes me feel a little embarrassed - but I thought I would share what I received today!!

I got these beauties in a swap from Lesley (THANKS LESLEY)!!! Love these = so much!!

And what about this beautiful piece of fabric???

Should I be embarrassed yet??

Well there are still three more pictures ...

I bought this next fabric because I did a swap with someone, and I said I had Tangerine dots - Amy Butler, which I did - but I had the Tangerine from the Love line, and she wanted the Tangerine from the Lotus line. I didn't realize until after the fabric had gone out in the mail. I panicked and bought this in case she wasn't happy with the Tangerine from the Love line. Now, she was happy, so I bought this for no reason = but, now that I have it, I am not concerned about that one little bit!

And finally .. there is this ... from Jenny. Such a sweetheart!! She knew a place that had this on sale. She went shopping for me, and packaged up this loveliness and sent it my way. How can I thank her enough??? I LOVE it!! So - Thanks, thank you, and thanks again Jenny and Lesley, and the others who have swapped with me and I have yet to receive your packages!!

Okay - that's all for today : ) When more arrives, if I am not too embarrased, I will show you the rest.

Starting to catch up!!

2010-07-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

So, I have been working away at the quilt a-long quilt, and I have finished up to week 4. I am loving it!! I am trying really hard not to over think the placement of the squares. I really want it to be random, but I also don't want two of the same colour or print right beside each other if I can help it.

I should be caught up by tomorrow - and then I (gasp) might have to work on something else while I wait for the next weeks instructions!! I can't be doing nothing now, can I??

Here are a few pictures of the progress:

I love "andrew" he is sooo super cute : )

I have ordered some new fabric lately, and also doing lots of swaps .. so I may start showing pictures of fabric soon - is that boring?? I haven't gotten a lot of it yet, as for whatever reason, customs seems to be taking longer than usual. I hope that changes soon. It used to take 7-10 days for things to arrive when I ordered it online. Lately it has been taking like 3 weeks. For someone like me who has serious patience issues, this is seriously driving me insane. I need instant gratification, and I am not getting it!!

On another note altogther, I have actually started to consider selling some of the things I make. I have a few things to make for upcoming babies, but I have so much inside my little head waiting to be made that it has to go somewhere!! I haven't decided for sure ... but it is a thought ...

HAPPY CANADA DAY!!!

2010-07-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

Happy Canada Day to all my fellow Canadians!! Beautiful day outside today, so I tried not to stay inside all day!

In between swimming, biking and lots of other fun outdoor stuff, I did spend some time cutting, and sewing, and cutting and cutting some more. Phew - there was lots! I think I am going to be caught up in no time.

Now - I just have to iron them all!! 490 squares (x two if you count the white background) is a lot!

I'm back

2010-06-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yeah!! My exam is over, and I needed a couple of days to spend with the kids. Now, I am back and ready to sew!!

I think I have about 8 projects on the go = but I am starting another one today.

I was reading through the 800 blog posts that I had to catch up on in Google reader, and I found a little quilt along over at crazy mom quilts. I am going to give it a try. I am a little behind, but I should be able to catch up!!

I had bought some pure charm packs a couple of weeks ago that I wanted to use, and then I pulled out some co-ordinating fabrics to try and come up with the amount I need. I think I am going to use these ones:

I have a lot of cutting to do. I think there are 490 2.5 inch squares .. so that should keep me busy pretty much all day!! I will come back and show you some of the stuff that I done in a little bit!!

Giveaway loot

2010-06-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

Remember a couple of days ago I told you I won some Flea Market Fancy??? Well, it has arrived at my house, and I thought I would share.

And just because I took two pictures, here is a close up:

So not only did I get two prints, I got huge pieces of two prints. Like 1/2 yard of each big. Can you imagine the happy dance?? I know, I know, I am bragging, and you aren't supposed to do that. I'll stop now.

I have to go and study ... I have exactly 1 week and 1 day left before my exam (yikes). Once that is over, I will actually be able to sew and blog again.

val

Little folks flannel is dreamy

2010-06-12T13:17:00.001-07:00

So, I have finished the quilt top that I started about a week ago. I have to say, this went together much faster than I thought it would! I was able to cut the quilt in two nights, and then sew it all together last night and today.

I should really be studying instead of sewing, but who wouldn't choose fun over work??

Do you think it's too busy?? My husband said - "wow, that one is colourful". I think that means he doesn't like it. I don't really think he needs to like everything I make, and I am glad he doesn't come right out and say he doesn't like it!!

On the other hand, my mother in law is here, and she L.O.V.E.S. it!! She just keeps coming into the room and rubbing it. I agree, it is so soft and just makes you want to cuddle up!!

It is really drab and rainy here today - so the pictures aren't the best - but ... something is better than nothing right??

I just laid it out on the floor first:

Then to give you a better idea of the size - I put it on top of my bed (queen):

Like I said, the pictures aren't the best - but I will take more pictures when it's done. I have to go and get some batting first, and I don't feel like going out today. Something about the rain, and I should also really go study : (

One last thing before I go - I won another giveaway!!! I have been really really really lucky with giveaways. And I really wanted to win this one, so I was dancing around like a crazy woman when I found out!! I don't have pictures yet .. because it isn't here = but stay tuned. As soon as it arrives I will post pictures (a little hint - FMF).

Now that my room is clean ...

2010-06-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

What's better than a nice clean sewing table (a.k.a. dining room table)?? Since I had lots of room, I pulled these fabrics out of the bin to get started on something brand new.

I heart Anna Maria Horner. Her fabrics are yummy, and this flannel is so super soft and cuddly!! It is thick, and soft and buttery. I am super excited about how comfy this quilt will be when it's done.

I got to cutting right away, and before I knew it, I had a nice little pile going.

I also had lots of bits ... all this cutting makes a mess.

I think I have cut about a quarter of the quilt ... but my back is killing me. I should really get a table that is higher, so I don't have to hunch over to cut. I have seen others who have their table up on risers - sounds like a really good idea! But I think to do this, I would have to have a room that was a dedicated sewing room (and that's not going to happen until the kids move out of the house).

On another note, I am taking a night course, so 3 nights a week for 4 weeks, I won't be home. That means 3 nights a week of no sewing!! I am sad. I will totally miss it. I also find it hard not to be at home with the kids at night.

I have 12 classes total, and I have already started a countdown - 10 to go!! Anyway, I am going to get some kid time, off to read some stories!!

I should be embarrased to show this to you ...

2010-05-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

We were having friends over today for an afternoon bbq, and I while I was sitting reading some blogs this morning, I looked over at my coffee, and saw this:

I kinda thought to myself, man, it's a little messy in here. Then I looked around some more ...

I seriously don't know what happened!! This is my dining room people!! It was time for a little (or should I say big) clean up!! So .. here's proof that I spent some time this morning cleaning before our friends came by ...

This is where I put most of it:

Yikes - does your craft room or "dining room" ever get this bad??

Before I realized what a mess the dining room was, I made myself a shirt. It was a really easy pattern called the "megan peasant dress" by Jennifer Paganelli. The pattern gives options for lots of different lengths, and also for different sleeves. I was able to cut the pieces and sew the whole thing together in one night. I still have to cut some threads, but here she is:

Okay ... so now that I have shared, I need to be clear. The rest of my house doesn't look like this!! : )

Pillows are done

2010-05-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

Phew .. my pillows are finished. Now I just have to decide which one to send to my partner!! I am leaning towards the one with the boxed patchwork ... but I still haven't decided. Here they are:

The back is the same (pretty much) on both of them:

At first I was going to add a zipper, but then I decided to do an envelope type back because I wanted to add the binding on. I really like the way they look, but I think if I did this again, I would add some buttons on the back so it sat nicer.

Not to brag or anything, but I think I did a pretty good job considering I have never made a pillow before. Start to finish, it goes so fast compared to a quilt, so it was really nice for a change!!

I think I also need to learn how to take better pictures! I totally didn't make the first pillow look pretty, and the bottom of the pillow is flipped under weird. Oh well ... Hope you like it partner!!

... I'm off to watch the hockey game. See you again,
Val

What I am working on now ...

2010-05-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

So, now that the sew mama sew giveaway is over, and the parcels are off in the post to the winners - it's time to get back to my pillow swap!! I am actually making two pillows right now. They both have the same fabrics, and now that I am looking at them, they are really similar. What do you think?? Do you like one more than the other??

Here is a close up of the quilting on one of them ...

I really like them - but I have seriously started giving myself anxiety that my partner isn't going to like the one I send her!!

Anyway ... on another note, a couple of weeks back I won a giveaway of my own!! A la mode fabric hosted a giveaway, and the winner got to choose a scrap pack of fabric from Hawthorne Threads. I chose to receive the "fresh" scrap pack. It is spring and all!! Anyway - it showed up yesterday!!! There is a lot of BIG pieces of really great fabric inside!!

I would seriously recommend this purchase!!

Anyway - off to do the backs of my pillows!

val

I think it's time to declare a winner!!!!

2010-05-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

First of all ... WOW ... second of all, I think we achieved what I consider "a lot a lot"!!! Which means, I am sending out FQs of all the fabric I showed pictures of.

I knew that I would have more visitors than normal, but my goodness!!! There were 382 comments. I think that calls for a whoop whoop.

Okay - since I know you all really want to know who won, let's get to it.

Comment #202 = handmadehappiness (numbers)

Comment # 185 = karelle (Lecien)

Comment #76 = wenchywoman (Umekomachi)

Now, I used the Random number generator - but I couldn't figure out how to post that here, so you will just have to trust me!! I am also going to have to figure out how to number comments when I do this next time. I had to count each one out like 3 times to make sure I didn't mess up!! The lucky thing was - Karelle and Wenchywoman chose different fabrics, so the third fabric will be going out to handmadehappiness who didn't put a preference. If you all could get back to me with your addresses, I will put your new goodies in the mail.

I will try and send you a message right after I finish this post.

And because a blog post isn't a blog post without a picture, here is a picture of what my 7 year old did when she made toast all by herself!! OOPS. I guess I should have told her that you don't need to put it on a plate.

See you all again soon.
Val

It's giveaway time!!!

2010-05-16T14:39:00.000-07:00

Ok ... here we go!!! This is my very first giveaway, so since I am a rookie, I don't want to mess stuff up! I have had a really hard time deciding what to give away, so instead of me deciding = you can decide!! Hello to people visiting for the first time from Sew Mama Sew!!

I have picked three fabric sets, and the winner can pick which fabric set they like the best!! IF there are lots (and I mean a lot a lot), then I will give away more than just one set : ) I have a fat quarter of each fabric to giveaway.

All you need to do to win is become a follower, and then leave a comment telling me which fabric set you like the best! Easy right? Oh yes, and also make sure I have a way to find you. Remember - I am a rookie!!

The first group is Japanese fabric. It says "Umekomachi" on the selvedge. It is a heavier weight fabric, that may be a linen/cotton mix, but I am not 100% sure.

The second set is by Lecein. Really cute, quilting weight cotton fabric:

And the last group is American Jane Patterns (Sandy Klop), again, quilting weight, cotton:

I will ship anywhere, and the giveaway is open until May 20th. Good Luck!!

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day!!!

2010-05-16T05:54:00.000-07:00

This is where I got started with discovering blogs ... Sew Mama Sew that is. I participated as a participant in the last giveaway day. I didn't win anything = but that's so okay, as I have been lucky with some wins since then!!

So, I am going to play along this time with a giveaway!!!

I haven't decided what yet - but it will be something that hopefully people will want!!

Come back tomorrow to see what it is!! Or maybe later tonight (I think I will have to post tonight so I don't break the rules :)

Pillow Swap

2010-05-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

So, how's it going?? I haven't been around this blog much. I have been busy studying for an exam (blech). I have also been busy stalking other people on their blogs :) AND I have joined up for a pillow swap!! FUN!!

Now that the exam is over (yes!!), I have all sorts of crazy pillow ideas in my head. The hard part is = I have no idea what to do!! It is a blind swap = so you know who your partner is = but they have no idea who is making a pillow for them. Which also means that I have no idea who is making a pillow for me!! See - FUN!!

So ... I made this mosaic of pillows that I love:

Pretty awesome pillows aren't they??

Anyway - then I had to start trying to figure out what to make for my partner. So I have come up with two designs so far:

And I think I am going to use Hope Valley ...

Ack = I have no idea if they will like it !!!!

I know I like it - but that's not the point!! They are supposed to like it!!

I will let you know what I decide ...

Hexie love

2010-04-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Well ... everyone said it was addictive, and man = they are right!!

I decided I would give it a little try, making hexagons that is. I had some scraps left over from the Single girl quilt (that I still haven't finished), so I thought I would give it a try!

My husband keeps asking what I am going to do with them. To be honest - I am not really sure.

Maybe I will use them for a pillow?? I have signed up for a pillow swap. Speaking of swaps - I have been BUSY swapping. So fun!! I have taken a couple of pictures of things that have arrived .. but I will save them for another post :)

And just for fun .. here is my cat. His name is Henry.

I WON SOMETHING REALLY COOL (or should I say HOT)

2010-04-22T05:47:00.000-07:00

So ... I have a notion had this really cool giveaway. For her 1 year blogiversay, she gave away something everyday for 30 days. I entered - why not I figure??? Maybe I might win one of the really cool prizes!!

So - go figure - I did win!!! Now, I already know what it is, but since I live in Canada, things sometimes take a while to arrive. BUT ... when I came home from work yesterday, this is what I saw:

Not only has hubby been working really hard on our new porch, BUT, the UPS man braved the plank to drop of something for me!!

and here it is:

I am not sure I can describe how exciting this is!! The iron is very fancy, and it is big, and I can't wait to give it a try!!

Apparently, the iron is from a place in TORONTO!! Imagine that! I live in a suburb of Toronto!! So, where normally packages have to make the long trip over the border from the states, and brave the customs people, this one came from just around the corner.

I am very pleased, and very thankful!!

Have a great day!

Coin top finished

2010-04-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

I have finished the quilt top that I started a couple of nights ago. It was so fast! I didn't start with a charm pack, which is how I would normally do one of these quilts, but I still whipped this off in only a couple of hours!!

On another note, it wasn't the warmest day by my house yesterday, but look what I discovered!!

Don't worry, even though mama robin was not very happy with me going close to her nest - she was right back on her eggs as soon as I left. She didn't really choose the best place to build this nest - it's on a pile of tarps in a temporary shelter in our backyard - but we will make sure we don't disturb her nest until her babies fly away. I can now officially say - spring is here!!

Mama robin usually comes every year to build a nest, but this is a new location for her. Usually it is in the kids swing set. This is definitely more sheltered.

Off to sew - have a great day!

What's a girl to do . . .

2010-04-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

I used to be so good at sticking to one project - but let me just tell you, that has gone right out the window.

I decided to join up in the Hexagon Quilt-a-Long, and man, am I ever excited! But, there is a small snag. Apparently, the mail man does not want me to start. He is holding my fabric hostage. Somewhere. But not at my post office.

So, intead of just waiting patiently, I did this:

I just cut up a whole bunch of coins. I am just going to do a quick little coin quilt. A really nice mom of one of the boys on my son's hockey team is having a baby. What a great, easy, fun project to keep a new baby warm.

I am also in the middle of this:

This pattern is called "there's a square in there", by Kate Conklin. Very easy! But also not done.

I am in the middle of quilting it right now ...

I decided to do straight line quilting on this one. It is really hard to keep those lines perfectly straight!! It's a little wonky = Here is a close up:

And here is one a little farther back:

I used the Riley Blake line, which I think may be called "all stars" for both these quilts.

While I anxiously stalk the post office, I will be working on these. I will show you more soon!!

I have a notion giveaway

2010-04-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Wow Wow Wow Wow ... can I say this a little louder?? If you haven't seen this giveaway, you need to go here right now:

The blog

The Website

They are giving away some super duper prizes (30 days worth).

Ok, go there now.

Hexy quilt-a-long

2010-04-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Well .. I have noticed and really liked some of the hexagon goings on out there, and I have joined a quilt along:

I am scared of committment : ) but I am going to give it my best. I have a couple of other works in progress - so hopefully I am not going to run away screaming.

Val

My very first fabric swap

2010-04-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

I participated in my very first fabric swap. It was co-ordinated by Jo at A bit of this and a bit of that.

The theme of the swap was montessori based. The plan was to focus on a specific county/region, and then send a traditional and a modern fabric from that region. Even though I am not involved in montessori, I thought = why not? I can give this a try. I wasn't sure what to expect, but let me tell you, I will so be doing this again!!

Here are some pictures of what was sent my way:

I am going to be keeping my eye out for more swaps!

Done ...

2010-04-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

Not done blogging, although you would think that was the case based on how often I am here. I won't make excuses, cause it's not like there are a lot of folks out there following me, wondering where on earth I am ...

Anyway, that's not what this was suppossed to be about. I have finsihed the zig zag quilt. Actually, I finished it about two weeks ago, and it has been keeping me warm on the couch since then.

Here it is :

And here are some close ups:

You can see in the close ups that I still haven't trimmed all the threads .. and it is covered in dog/cat hair. Sorry about that : )

This quilt started as a gift for a baby ... and then my son claimed it (can't really say I blame him), and we have all been snuggling under it on the couch since then. I used a high loft batting, and minkee on the back. It is dreamy.

Now, I have to make another one for the baby ...

Off to work, have a great day!!

Pillow Factory Alphabet Down Filled Pillow GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2010-02-23T15:17:00.000-08:00

Pillow Factory Alphabet Down Filled Pillow GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Stolen From Your Sisters Closet GROSGRAIN GIVEAWAY!!!!

2010-02-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

Stolen From Your Sisters Closet GROSGRAIN GIVEAWAY!!!!

Heather Ross is selling fabric on spoonflower

2010-02-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

I was reading through Heather Ross`s blog and she has fabric for sale on spoonflower. I know it`s expensive, but you can`t find it anywhere without paying an arm and a leg ... so I thought I would share just in case someone has some extra $$ lying around.

Denyse Schmidt should do this with her free market fancy line ... someone should tell her ...

Giveaway ...

2010-02-20T16:10:00.000-08:00

I would like to say ... whoever came up with this whole giveaway thing is very cool. One day, when I have lots of people who follow my blog, I will have one ... but for now, I want to tell you about one. Go over to Heather's blog. She is having a giveaway that you won't want to miss !!

I got distracted

2010-02-18T11:42:00.000-08:00

Normally, I am the type of person that works only on one thing until it's finished ... and then starts the next thing. Now this doesn't mean that I don't want to start something new = in fact it's quite the opposite.
If I had a choice, I think I would be working on 100 things all at once, but, I don't think I would ever get anything done that way. So, I try really hard to focus and finish each project before I start a new one.

Well .. I have been distracted from this little rule, and I started a new quilt.

Here are the fabrics I started with:

Then, following this really cool tutorial over on Bee square blog, I have been making a zig-zag quilt.

This is after doing the strips:

Then, I cut them into smaller squares:

And then ... I had to try and lay out the smaller squares ... I NEED MORE ROOM !! My husband hates when I do this, because I always steal the kitchen table. I suppose I could try and do it on the floor, but ... I don't want to:

I am not really sure how to rotate these pictures ... does anyone know how to do that?? Advice would be appreciated : )

This quilt actually has gone together pretty fast. I will show more pictures of this one, and the single girl quilt when they are done.

Ta ta for now,

Val

Please try and ignore the mess in the background .. I have issues with keeping my sewing area (aka my dining room) clutter free.

To embroider or not ....

2010-01-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Well ... I am undecided right now ... do I want to embroider some detail = or not.

Here I did one little row of embroider:

but then ... I thought I would add two more:

and now I can't decide if I like it ... here is a picture with and without the embroidering:

Aghhh ... what should I do???

If I was the type of person to move on to another project I would ... but I am not that gal. I tend to start one, and finish it before I move on. I think I am heading towards the plain - no embroider.

I guess I could sew the blocks together first, and then decide. It's just harder to work with them all sewn together. I will keep the one that I did embroider for a pillow ...

My husband thinks that the plain is better ...

A couple of random things

2010-01-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

I was just going to post a list of 100 things and identify what I have done, want to do, and never want to do... but after it was done, it was WAY too long, and I know that no one would ever get through the whole thing ...

Insead, I will just tell you some quick random facts:

1. I have an insane love for all things chocolate.
2. I love blood and gore on tv, but in real life, I am totally squeemish.
3. Before kids I could sleep anywhere, anytime .. now - totally the lightest sleeper ever (so annoying), and once I am awake, can't fall back asleep.
4. I love to travel.
5. I love my job (most of the time).
6. I love animals.
7. I love reading other people's blogs .. but there has to be lots of pictures ...

so on that note, I am stopping, since there are no pictures to go with this post.S