saraisabee handmade

Rapunzel

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Another handmade costume by request...Rapunzel from Tangled. Even though Rapunzel is probably one of the most popular costumes for little girls this year, I asked Sasha about a month ago, "Would you rather I make your costume or should we buy it?" How could I possibly resist her reply that she wanted it handmade by me?

I promptly found Simplicity pattern 2065 and, with a friend's advice on how to make some changes, purchased all sorts of satin and sparkles, laces and trims. The dress sewing went smoothly, though slow-going, especially because I used fusible interfacing on the entire bodice and the skirt seams to try to reduce fraying. I even learned how to use the blind hem feature on my sewing machine, thanks to this tutorial on CraftStylish. Instead of the big overskirt and lining, I did a pink satin inset right on top of the sparkly purple satin skirt. I also opted to do little ribbon loops instead of eyelets for the lace-up bodice. I left off the long organza sleeves, figuring puffy striped satin was plenty. And I skipped the entire lining, why would I want to sew this whole dress twice?

The yarn hair crown went well, though the pattern instructions were comically off on the measurements. Kadiddlehopper's blog helped me realize it wasn't just me and provided better measurements. I think the hair ties the whole costume together so nicely.

All in all, Sasha and I are both so pleased!

Canary Cardigan

2011-08-06T21:10:00.000-07:00

At long last, I present a finished item...Anneke's new sweater.

To say that not a lot of crafting is getting done in these parts now that I'm back to work full-time, with a baby at work, plus a 4-year-old whose preschool means an hour of driving per day - well, that would be an understatement. I actually finished this sweater at the end of my maternity leave but took many moons to pick the buttons from dear friend MarinaMaroo's impressive stash.

The pattern is Knitted DROPS Jacket in size 6-9 months. I used Cascade Yarns Sierra in this buttery yellow. It actually knitted up pretty fast and was a nice pattern and yarn to work with. Ravelry details here.

Since Anneke is already six-months-old (what? how did that happen?) and a chub-chub, I expect she'll be wearing this any day now!

Kerchief Bibs

2011-07-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

Two months go by in the blink of an eye, huh? In a rare moment I was able to whip up three kerchief bibs for this baby who drools all the live-long day. The pattern is from Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing for Baby, and I used some fabrics I've had in my stash for too long to remember where they came from.

I really like this bib pattern (it's not all curves like most bibs!) but I think in the future, instead of following the instructions to hem all the edges, I'll double the fabric and turn it inside out. With only one layer of cotton, this baby is done with the bib by the time I have it tied. The style is so cute though!

For a baby boy

2011-05-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

For a baby boy due any day now, what every parent needs/laughs at: the peepee teepee. Using this tutorial, I made four of them so that a clean one will always be around to use/amuse the parents. If you're not familiar with the concept, they're meant for use during diaper changes for baby boys. Are they useful? I don't know, I have girls! They are certainly entertaining, at the very least.

Taggies

2011-05-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Three taggie blankets for three girls born within months of one another, including my own Anneke.

Ribbons from my stash, pink minky from Joann's, and I can't recall where I got the balloon fabric many moons ago.

Barrettes

2011-05-01T16:39:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the barrettes Sasha always wore as a baby, I decided to try my hand at making barrettes with metal clips and ribbons. For three friends with girls, these were fun to make!

Forgive the last photo taken on my iPhone on a rainy day.

Cloth Napkins

2011-04-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

When I took a tablecloth off my fabric-hoarding-friend's hands long ago, I had no idea what I would do with it. I only knew I was drawn to it and couldn't let it go through multiple fabric purges.

Lo and behold, a few days ago I stalled out on a project in the works that suddenly require a trip to the fabric store while the baby was sleeping: no go. The tablecloth called out to me from the corner of my stash, and by the end of that (extremely long) baby nap, nine cloth napkins were born!

In yellow, gold and white, these napkins really please me because they're beautiful and not disposable!

Wet bags

2011-04-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

Since I'm going back to work in three weeks (sob!) with Anneke in tow (phew!), I decided to make some wet bags for the cloth diapers, bibs, and other wet items that will need to come home each day. My dear friend D made me one as a baby gift, and it inspired me to make some more so I'll have plenty!

This one is the largest, measuring about 8"x13", with a zipper. Boy, was that tricky. It felt like I spent more time picking seams out than putting seams in. Difficulties were only due to my own impulse to get it done fast, so I'm sure anyone else attempting this would have no problem. I mostly used The Polka-Dot Umbrella tutorial without the strap. Outer fabric was (again) gifted by co-workers as wrapping paper. The lining is white PUL waterproof fabric from JoAnns.

Then, a slightly smaller flat version, measuring about 8.5"x10" with a velcro closure.

Outer fabrics are scraps of Heather Ross Mendocino leftover from the never-ending quilt project. The lining is the same PUL waterproof fabric from JoAnns.

No tutorial used for this one, except perhaps my previous experience making velcro snack bags.

Girls x 3

2011-04-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

Our dear friends who live afar had a baby five months ago, and I finally got around to a baby gift. For three girls, how could I resist three matching skirts? Answer: I couldn't.

In sizes 6-12 months, 3T and 4T, I hope these girls continue to love dressing alike for months to come. I received this fabric as wrapping paper on a large baby gift from co-workers who know me and my crafting tendencies well. Since it was a little sheer, I lined each skirt in plain white cotton.

The mom of the three beauties has an Etsy site of her own: Punkiboo. So adorable! She made Anneke the most darling custom onesie!

Caps for Good

2011-03-04T15:13:00.000-08:00

I did it! I managed to knit a newborn hat for a baby in need during the first month of Anneke's life. Hip hip hooray!

I used this simple rolled brim hat pattern and Sugar'n Cream yarn in a peachy color. I worked on this during random baby naps while resting in bed. I never dreamed I'd be able to squeeze knitting back into life so soon after a new baby, so I'm thrilled. I'm so happy to contribute to this great cause, sending baby hats to those that need them, in honor of Anneke.

Crafting complete: Anneke

2011-02-06T09:11:00.000-08:00

Introducing my latest craft project, completed in just over nine months:

Anneke Louisa, born January 27th at 2:53am, weighing 8 pounds 5 ounces and 21 inches long.

In honor of Anneke and newborns all over the world, I would love it if you would consider knitting a hat for a newborn in need. When I read this information at Snickerdoodle's blog, I felt so inspired to knit a hat this month. Can I do it with a newborn? We will see! Can you? All the information you need can be found here:

Caps for Good Action Kit

There are simple instructions for making a hat, and Snickerdoodle's blog has some basic knitting lessons if you want to get started.

Welcome to the world, Anneke Louisa!

More Odds & Ends

2011-01-25T15:45:00.000-08:00

I've been working on lots of little projects in these final days before the new baby arrives...

A drawstring knitting project bag, using heavyweight vintage cotton/canvas. I made it very boxy with a large opening at the top so it's easy to see everything that's inside.

Inside is... yes, another knitting project!

A VW Bus applique to cover a ridiculous duckie on a baby outfit.

And a tiny dog in a teacup applique to a newborn wrap shirt. Dog fabric by Heather Ross.

An amazing narwhal calendar gift from a dear friend! Fabric she acquired from Spoonflower.

With assistance on a safety chain and magnetic clasp from Talisman Beads, this beautiful birth bracelet, featuring beads from my loved ones.

And last, a simple reusable fabric gift bag. Phew!

Catching up...

2011-01-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

Last month for a kids gift exchange, I made a few things for Sasha to give to a friend.

First, legwarmers made from women's socks. I didn't actually use this tutorial, but it's the same idea.

And, from the adorable pre-printed doll fabric I got at Scottie Dog Quilts, a fabric doll.

Knit Pants + Bonus

2011-01-22T12:06:00.000-08:00

Before we began a long drive to Portland to visit dear friends, I had a crisis thinking of all that time off with no crafting. So I quickly used a gift certificate at Fabric Temptations in Arcata to get yarn for this project: Knit baby pants/diaper soaker. I got about half-way through the project on our trip, and then they sat around for a few months. Until lately, with that nesting urge, I finally finished them up.

Here are the details on Ravelry, if you're a member. The pattern is Pear's pattern for longies and shorties. The yarn is Mission Falls 1824 wool. Since the pattern is to make a custom size of one's choosing, I am hoping mine turn out to be about newborn through three months. And in the two nights that followed that project...

I decided to make Sasha's babydoll a matching pair. Yes, I have officially lost it. Ravelry details. Same yarn. The pattern is Sally's Longies. I think I created a monster though, the first thing Sasha said was "Can you make a matching shirt? And sweater?" Oh boy.

Odds & Ends

2011-01-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

A few things I've been working on...

Binkie clips for the new babe, if she decides to use pacifiers.

I found the adorable ribbons on Etsy and the suspender clips at JoAnns. These came together super fast.

Our dear friends are letting us use their amazing custom-built co-sleeper, complete with a natural latex mattress. I made an extra fitted sheet for the mattress.

Sweet pea flannel fabric from JoAnns.

We've lived in this house for five years and never had a kitchen curtain. I had ordered a panel to match our living room curtains for this very purpose from JC Penney, so I finally hemmed it to size. Unfortunately, I had a case of pregnancy brain at the time and cut it exactly to size, leaving myself no fabric to hem the bottom! Bias tape to the rescue.

Then I added an aqua-colored cotton tie, sewn to the middle of the backside of the curtain. Every morning, we pull the sides of the curtain together, tie it once, and voila! A functional kitchen curtain.

Baby carseat

2011-01-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

We had saved Sasha's baby carseat but I truly didn't think I could look at this awful fabric for the next year:

So I used a tutorial from Etsy's Puking Pastilles to dismantle the old cover and make it anew.

Sasha helped me select a sweet bird fabric I had gotten from Fabric Depot about a year ago from my stash.

This was a fairly fussy project, but not difficult, and it went much quicker than I thought it would. I had some trouble with the pieces that wrap under the seat to keep it in place and had to do some hand-sewing to fix it up. A very pleasing project because it's such an improvement!

A quilt for Christmas

2011-01-04T13:45:00.000-08:00

I decided to make a quilt for Sasha's bed a few months ago, something large enough to tuck in around her in her toddler bed and hopefully stay put through the night. The final dimensions turned out to be 44" by 64".

If there's one thing I've learned about crafting for Sasha, it's that she needs to be involved in the project and fabric selection or she won't like (or wear or use) the final product. So I let her pick all the fabrics she liked from my stash in only blue and purple. The result is quite the eclectic array of fabrics, from Dora and princesses to vintage flowers and Amy Butler. But you know, somehow it works.

For the back, I used a big piece of bird-themed flannel from Fabric Depot in Portland. I also embroidered a little label for it.

Sleeping Beauty

2010-11-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

At Sasha's request...

In honor of her favorite princess, Sasha wanted to be Sleeping Beauty in a blue gown. Disney usually markets Sleeping Beauty in a pink dress, but the story actually goes that the fairies argue over the color of her dress, and it alternates from pink to blue and back again. So Sasha latched on to the blue version. Which means, no storebought dress would do!

I found the out-of-print Disney Princess pattern Simplicity 9382, which ended up being much more advanced than other pattens I've worked with. After purchasing yards upon yards of blue satin, I set to work. I altered the pattern a bit by choosing not to line every pattern piece with blue chiffon. In the end, Sasha and I were both very happy with how this dress turned out, and how authentic it looks. It was definitely a challenge and I picked up some new skills along the way. Need to know what a godet is? A peplum? Ask me!

My first attempts at hemming this gown ended in strife, so I tried simply cutting the edge with pinking shears (see above). The hem still started to fray, so I added gold bias trim to the hem and sleeves (see below), which worked out great.

Paired with a dress-up bin crown made by Marina Maroo and sparkle silver shoes, this princess was ready for trick-or-treating and the Yogoman Burning Band!

Heather Ross Studio Sale WIN

2010-11-01T19:47:00.000-07:00

In September, my favorite fabric designer, Heather Ross, held a studio sale to get rid of fabrics, Munki Munki clothing, drawings and more. I managed to get my order in during the half hour spree!

Today I received my loot, and I couldn't be happier. I asked for older fabrics and kid clothes, and that's just what I got!

Five fabric scraps including her out-of-print Racecars and Goldfish designs.

A crazy adorable Munki Munki little girl outfit in size 6 months. Frosty blue knit shirt with cardinals sitting on trees. A coordinating dress, in what feels like velveteen, with a fuzzy cardinal and the words "what's in your bird feeder?" embroidered. The dress says it can fit size 6 months - 24 months.

Last, a tank top for me with this darling applique. I am so pleased by everything I received!

Butterfly Flyaway Jacket

2010-10-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Another item for baby-on-the-way!

Using the Flyaway Jacket pattern from One-Yard Wonders, which I won from Scottie Dog Quilts Creative Sewing Center, this was a super fast project.

I had this butterfly flannel fabric in my stash from JoAnn's remnant bin. Add a little pink bias tape and a button, and it's ready to go.

Binky taggie

2010-10-19T18:24:00.000-07:00

Since Sasha has a hardcore addition to pacifiers, I've been trying to think of how to ease the rehabilitation of this addiction. When I realized part of her obsession is actually stroking them with her fingers in addition to the oral fixation, I came up with this idea to solve half the problem:

A binky taggie! Hopefully this will help ease the pain whenever the binky fairy comes. I actually cut off the tips of two pacifiers and hand sewed them into the taggie, because my sewing machine did not appreciate them at all.

Excuse it's wrinkled state, I had to snatch it out of her bed. She actually loves it!

14k Gold Baby

2010-10-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

This baby likes gold.

I've never in my life liked the look of yellow gold on me - always silver, white gold, platinum. Suddenly, I had this strong desire for yellow gold earrings.

I went to Talisman in Old Town Eureka, bought the essential things I'd need, came home and whipped up these solid 14k gold earrings with glass and crystal beads.

I've been wearing them every day. I really wonder if I'll feel differently about these earrings once this baby is born!

VW Bus Kimono

2010-09-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

My first handmade item for baby #2.

A newborn kimono shirt using my precious stash of out-of-print Heather Ross VW Van Fabric.

Who can resist these characters?

Which one is your favorite? I love them all so much, I don't think I can pick.

The pattern is also from Heather Ross, from her book Weekend Sewing.

B.baby Gifts

2010-09-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

A special baby was born recently, and I managed to mail these gifts off just in time. First, an appliqued onesie for the little Italian.

A taggie blanket (excuse the lack of ironing due to morning sickness please).

And a BlueBerri hat!

Be Well quilt squares

2010-09-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

I just realized I never posted these quilt squares!

Our Underground Sewers group decided to quickly make a quilt for a friend who was about to undergo medical treatments and could use something warm and comforting.

We all chipped in fabrics from our collections and made squares following the pattern for Denyse Schmidt's "What A Bunch Of Squares" quilt.

I think it turned out beautifully, and the recipient adored it!

What I've been crafting

2010-09-05T10:01:00.001-07:00

Estimated completion: January 2011

Old fashioned Dora

2010-05-26T21:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make Sasha an old fashioned nightgown. I probably wouldn't have chosen this fabric for said nightgown, but hey, I'm also not three years old.

It ties in the back because it's super big. Hopefully that means it will fit for a long while.

I used vintage pattern Simplicity 5534 with many modifications, especially, adding long sleeves. Thanks to MarinaMaroo for the pattern!

At first, Sasha wasn't happy with the fit and how big it is. But tonight, she decided to wear it to bed! A month and a half after completion, that finally inspired me to post this.

Dutch bicycling

2010-04-25T21:53:00.000-07:00

The Dutch do love their bicycles...

And the color orange! So for Dutch relatives that recently had a baby girl, a little white skirt with a row of orange bicycles on pink fabric sounded just about right.

Pink bicycle fabric by Heather Ross, now out of print.

Spring dress for springing

2010-04-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

Inspired by this dress over at Posie Gets Cozy, I made Sasha a new dress for Spring. I had the pattern, Simplicity 5695, from when I made this little orange pom-pom number for Sasha. I loved Alicia Paulson's fabric choices, and I knew with my overflowing fabric stash, something good would come!

The fabric at the top is Heather Ross' Wildflowers in pink. The next fabric down, aqua with little white, pink and yellow flowers, is Treasures from the Past by Nancy Mahoney for Clothworks, purchased on sale at Fabric Temptations in Arcata. The last two fabrics were giveaways from friends - thank you!

Puppet theater

2010-03-26T22:43:00.000-07:00

Come one, come all to the puppet show!

For Sasha's school, a puppet show theater. They saw one in a preschool supply catalog and asked if I could do something similar. Thanks to Amy Karol's Bend the Rules Sewing, yes, I can!

For the main blue fabric I used a sheet I got at a yard sale to save on hemming. The purple curtains are cotton from my stash, and the valances are an adorable hand-me-down fairy fabric.

A tension curtain rod holds it in any doorway, and two wooden dowels help it hold it's shape.

The bottom valance features four pockets so that the kids can also use it as a storefront. I'd like to buy some grapes and strawberries, please!

Triple word score

2010-03-24T23:16:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to a fellow Scrabble partner!

Knit twist hat: part two

2010-03-13T16:00:00.000-08:00

After making this hat for dear friend Z in brown, his brother requested the same hat in charcoal gray with orange. Love that!

Unfortunately, the brown Sugar n Cream cotton I used before does not come in a charcoal gray. After some detective work, I found the very similar Peaches n Cream cotton in a charcoal gray and paired that with the Mission Falls 1824 cotton to make this work. Same orange yarn, same pattern.

Baby doll diapers

2010-03-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

For a dear one who turned two years old, diapers for her baby doll. So far, it sounds like they are a hit, with both diapers needed at all times because one is dirty and one is clean - of course!

Thanks to MarinaMaroo for letting me borrow her (superior) template for baby diapers. Much better than the one I freestyled for Sasha months ago.

Fabric bookmarks

2010-02-15T09:01:00.000-08:00

Along with the checkbook cover, I made these two fabric bookmarks for a birthday friend.

This first one has orange birds from Ikea, and on the other side is a little cut of out-of-print Heather Ross: City Dogs. Who can resist a tiny dog in a teacup?

The other bookmark features a vintage scrap with woodland creatures on one side.

The flip side uses a Japanese owl print.

Vintage checkbook cover

2010-02-14T11:09:00.000-08:00

A simple gift: a checkbook cover made with vintage floral fabric!

Pattern from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross.

Hot rice packs

2010-02-08T21:20:00.000-08:00

For a friend who is fighting the never-ending migraine, two handmades that promote relaxation and reduce stress! Rice packs - one to wrap around the back of the neck, and one for the eyes/sinuses.

The stripes are an Amy Butler print. The backside is a soft, cozy flannel. They are filled with brown rice so they just go in the microwave and then the tension melts away!

First custom purchase

2010-02-04T19:19:00.000-08:00

My first custom item was sold on Etsy! Three cheers!

The red corderoy Valentine's Day skirt with a white chenille pocket was made in a size 6. I hope it is well received!

Bibs!

2010-01-26T21:08:00.000-08:00

The night before we left to visit dear friends in Portland, the idea of bringing a gift for Mike's friend who is expecting twins was sprung on me. So what did I decide to do? Pack for our trip? Clean the house? No! Make bibs!

Bibs are so simple, but I really don't appreciate sewing those tight curves. I decided to do velcro this time, since I feel like that's easier and more adjustable than snaps.

Fruits, geometric shapes, how can you go wrong?

Yoga mat bag

2010-01-15T08:50:00.000-08:00

My friend N loves that crazy hot yoga where it's so hot I think I would pass out just lying there, let alone doing yoga. So for her birthday, I decided to make her a yoga mat bag.

I mostly just used my own yoga mat for dimensions and design.

A friend gifted me the batik cotton for the outer bag, strap and tie. Another friend gifted me the slippery fabric I used as lining to help that grippy yoga mat slide in easily.

I'm thinking about making some of these to add to my Etsy shop. With my little girl skirts. Is that too weird?

Oliver + S shout-out!

2010-01-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to find that one of my whale skirts got a shout-out on the Oliver + S blog! Check it out here:

http://www.oliverands.com/blog/2010/01/principles-of-fabric-selection-approach.html

Valentine's Day skirt

2010-01-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

Just listed in my Etsy shop! A skirt just perfect for a little Valentine you may know...

In red corduroy with a heart-shaped chenille pocket, this is a skirt that any little girl could wear through Valentine's Day and far beyond.

This time, I have enough fabric available to make more of these skirts in custom sizes. The one pictured is a size 3/4T. I can also make additional skirts in sizes from 12-18 months through 4T!

Craft It Forward part II

2010-01-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

Yay, I can finally post my 2nd Craft It Forward gift! I started this entry 23 posts ago, but forgot to mail it. Sorry, Rachelle!

I made this crazy cup cozy because I knew Rachelle could appreciate creepy doll fabric. When I bought it at a yard sale, my friends looked at me like I had lost my marbles. There is just something oddly appealing about it.

One side features the doll fabric in all it's glory.

The other side (in case the doll fabric was just too weird) has brown flannel with a silver stitched "R" for Rachelle.

Here she is enjoying her new cup cozy!

Secret Santa

2009-12-31T19:09:00.000-08:00

For a fun little gift exchange, I decided to give up attempting to be a "secret" Santa since handmade would be the biggest Santa clue ever. I'd rather go with handmade and lose the secret anyway!

First I made a felt business card holder, using this tutorial from Jennifer Ladd Handmade. If I were to do it over again, I might make some changes to take down the thickness of the end result, but it still turned out cuter than the formerly used cheapie plastic sleeve.

Next: rose quartz earrings.

Phew! December was a busy month.

A doll skirt to match

2009-12-31T15:49:00.000-08:00

The very first skirt I made Sasha has withstood the test of time and is still her absolute favorite skirt.

With the small amount of fabric I had left, I decided to make her baby doll a skirt to match her own favorite skirt.

A quick and easy stocking stuffer!

Stocking #4

2009-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

Stocking #4 was inspired by the deer on my stocking from last year.

This time, he's Rudolph with a swarovski red nose!

And a moon and crystal stars in the sky.

The other side is the E ornament finishing up L-O-V-E...now all the ornaments together!

Hooray.

Stocking #3

2009-12-31T08:49:00.000-08:00

This third stocking is for H's younger daughter, modeled after Sasha's stocking from last year. Plus swarovski crystals in her hair.

Love those rosy cheeks!

The other side is a V ornament as we continue spelling L-O-V-E.

One more ornament to go!

Stocking #2

2009-12-30T22:45:00.000-08:00

Stocking #2 is for my friend H's older daughter, so naturally, it's fashioned to look similar to her! Also modeled after Sasha's stocking from last year, with swarovski crystals.

The other side features an ornament O as L-O-V-E is continued.

All four stockings are made entirely from felt, with the children's stockings featuring glitter eco-felt.

Stocking #1

2009-12-30T21:03:00.000-08:00

When a friend commissioned me to make her family of four Christmas stockings similar to the three I made last year, I jumped at the chance!

We brainstormed all the designs together. One side of this first stocking has a bird on branches, similar to the one on my stocking from last year, plus red swarovski crystal berries/flowers and bird eye.

The other side of the stocking is an L ornament for L-O-V-E, which will be spelled out with the other three stockings.

More to come!

Oilcloth amp cover

2009-12-30T17:47:00.000-08:00

When Mike was gifted this vintage amp a year ago, we knew we needed a way to keep it protected from kids and cat hair. So we stared at an old flannel sheet over it every day. Charming.

For his birthday, I made this custom oilcloth amp cover. Now his 1963 Fender Bandmaster can be protected in style, and our living room looks a whole lot better too. The oilcloth is from Fabric Temptations in Arcata.

Cherry earrings

2009-12-23T17:51:00.000-08:00

I'm back in the jewelry making! Only for a while longer, I suspect, because I'm going to tire of jewelry making supplies all over the dining table by Christmas dinner.

I made these earrings to go with another gift for my dear friend N, whose name I drew in the Christmas gift exchange. The pink beads are known as cherry quartz, which is actually glass and not a gemstone. Along with a milky glass bead and sterling silver wire, I think they turned out pretty fun!

Tooth Fairy pillow

2009-12-21T20:48:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to have someone the right age to make a Tooth Fairy pillow for! We drew O in the gift exchange and the timing was just right.

I used the tutorial on mmmcrafts and made a more boyish version with a red sparkly mouth to put the tooth in. Then the pillow can either be left on the bed, or it can hang on the doorknob with the ribbon top for easy fairy delivery!

The tooth is all eco-felt, with buttons and ribbon from my stash. Bamboo stuffing rounded the tooth out nicely.

Zipper Pulls

2009-12-20T13:52:00.000-08:00

A fun, simple gift for kids - zipper pulls!

These zipper pulls can be attached to any favorite zipper - a coat, backpack, sweatshirt - wherever!

I found these darling beads at our local bead stores, and had to refresh my memory of wirework. Fortunately, it came back to me.

My original plan was to use lobster clasps, but when I found these lanyard hooks in fun colors, I thought they would work much better for small hands.

Sasha's Christmas skirt

2009-12-12T13:51:00.000-08:00

Kids are silly. I had bought this fabric at a thrift store ages ago and didn't even love it. But it called to Sasha - she pulled it out of my stash and proclaimed that she needed a Christmas skirt. So she got one for her birthday!

I added a red rick-rack hem to make it even more Christmas-like. The fabric has grown on me now, those little pine needles and cones are pretty cute with random red dots.

A handknit!

2009-12-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I finished a knit item - April 2008, to be exact. Seems like I go from craft to craft, and just dive deep into whichever one is my favorite of the moment. Since I got back into sewing, my knitting certainly has suffered. Until my dear friend Z said he would help me turn my logo from concept to digital reality in return for a beanie - now that is a trade I am up for! With his color preferences in mind, I crafted this up.

The pattern is one I found on Ravelry: Subtle Twist Hat designed by Jennifer Tallapaneni. I used two strands of brown cotton yarn held together throughout, Mission Falls 1824 Cotton and Sugar n Cream Cotton, along with the orange yarn held in that section too. A very nice pattern that took me forever to knit because (a) I rarely knit anymore and (b) I had to undo all the cabling and start over because I got off track at some point.

The most important thing is that Z loves it and I haven't seen him without it since I handed it off! A crafter's dream!

We have a winner!

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

Congratulations to Lisa of Question Everything, you have won a skirt! The 18-24 month sparkle owl skirt is yours!

I used random.org to select a random winner, and Lisa - you're it! I will email you for your mailing address. Thanks to everyone who visited my blog and entered the giveaway!

Giveaway Day!

2009-12-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

Today is the big day!

I love the Sew Mama Sew blog for amazing ideas, tutorials and inspiration. Today they coordinate a huge internet-wide Giveaway Day. So go visit their blog and enter tons of contests to win free stuff! But first, scroll down to enter my giveaway...

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
saraisabee.etsy.com

My Etsy shop is open! I am selling skirts for little girls ranging in size from 12-18 months through 4T. Surely you have a little girl in your life who would love a new skirt to twirl in!
To enter my Giveaway:
1. Visit my Etsy shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/saraisabee and choose a skirt.
2. Come back to this post and leave a comment letting me know which skirt you would like to win - your choice!
3. The contest is open now through December 6, 2009 at midnight Pacific time.
4. Comments must be through this post on www.saraisabee.com, not through Facebook or any other method.
5. I will ship anywhere in the United States.
6. Be sure your email address is available in case you win!
7. The winner will be selected randomly.
Good luck!

Heather Ross Wildflowers

2009-12-01T18:53:00.000-08:00

Ah, Heather Ross...how I love her designs.

This darling little 2T apron skirt is almost too cute to part with. A plum purple solid skirt with apron overlay using the fuschia Wildflowers print from the Heather Ross collection Lightning Bugs & Other Mysteries. It's long out of print and rare, so this is special!

In other news, my Etsy shop is now open! I have a new sidebar link with photos for your viewing pleasure. Don't you have a little girl in your life who really deserves a new skirt?

Next up: Giveaway post no later than Dec. 2 at 6:00 a.m.!

Deck the halls with boughs of holly...

2009-11-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season to be jolly!

This skirt really has the spirit of the holidays in mind.

In size 3T, this vibrant red skirt with machine smocking will carry a girl through the Winter holidays and even into Valentine's Day with a smile.

Ye Olde Smocking

2009-11-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

Since I combined smocking and this lovely Aunt Grace fabric to create this sundress and bloomers, I knew this skirt would be a winning combination.

Machine smocked in a size 3T, this skirt is adorable and comfortable - and will probably last a girl long after she's outgrown her other 3T clothing.

Hoot! Hoot!

2009-11-28T15:55:00.000-08:00

Two hoots for two skirts...

This little number is double the owl fun with one version in size 18-24 months and another in size 4T. Perfect for sisters!

This twirly skirt combines a darling print in brown with pink owls with a panel of sparkly pink cotton on bottom. Not only is glittery silver thread woven into the pink fabric, but the hem is also a sparkly silver.

Tree skirt

2009-11-27T09:43:00.000-08:00

No, not a Christmas tree skirt - a little girl skirt!

This little skirt is size 12-18 months and features a fun cotton printed with trees and flowers. For a little nature girl!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is not typically the most animal-friendly of holidays. So I am celebrating this animal skirt today!

Perfect for Christmas (hint, hint) with red polka dots on top and fun & funky animals on bottom, doesn't a little girl you know, who wears size 18-24 months, need this?

When I first grabbed this animal fabric from a friend's giveaway pile, I wasn't sure I even liked it, but I was drawn to it. Now that it's paired with these polka dots in a darling skirt, I can't even decide what I like best about it! The camel with the purple humps and an all-knowing look? The seal with no face and a bouncing red ball? The kangaroo with a baby in her pouch? Or perhaps the slice of watermelon, or what looks to be the top of a pineapple with no fruit underneath? The love is endless!

Smocked Skirt with Flowers

2009-11-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love smocking?

Ever since I learned machine smocking with this dress, I've thought of many fun ideas to incorporate the technique. This skirt, size 12-18 months, uses smocking at the waist - which is sure to make the skirt last long past that age.

The fabric is from a dress I picked up at a rummage sale for myself. When it didn't fit quite right, I knew it would make the perfect skirt for a little girl. White cotton with little pink and red flowers - so sweet.

Stars and Flowers

2009-11-25T08:30:00.000-08:00

For a girl who loves to twirl in skirts...

This skirt is perfect for any girl who fits size 4T to run, jump, play and dance in. Why? What girl doesn't love purple?! Though the color looks a little more blue in these photos, the top of the skirt is actually purple cotton with stars, and underneath are pale yellow flowers. It reminds me of running in spring wildflower fields...

Skirt mania! Until Giveaway Day!

2009-11-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

Skirts! Skirts! Skirts!

I have a lot of exciting news today. Starting today through December 2, there will be a blog post every day. Why? Because by December 2, my very own Etsy shop will be up and running!

To start, I'll be listing 10 little girl skirts in my Etsy shop, ranging in size from 12-18 months through 4T. Ever since the beginning of Sasha's skirts-only phase, I've gotten really good at making skirts! My objective as I get this off the ground is to use only fabrics from my extensive fabric collection to make high quality skirts. All skirts have French seams and no unfinished edges.

On December 2, you'll definitely want to come back and check out my Giveaway! I plan to participate again in the Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day. So if you can't keep up with all the skirts coming your way, at least come back and enter to win one on December 2!

This skirt was made from 2 fat quarters I received in a fat quarter swap. Both fabrics are from Amy Butler's Midwest Modern collection. For a little girl who wears size 18-24 months and loves pink!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T18:25:00.000-08:00

Sasha had several Halloween costume ideas...until her friend Randi announced she was to be a cow. Then Sasha had to be a cow too. Fun!

I bought the cow print faux fur at JoAnns, along with the McCall's 5740 pattern that I used as a template. Faux fur is not something I plan to work with again - what a pain. I followed the pattern loosely and added a tail to the pants and ears to the hood.

She didn't really like wearing the hood, but that's ok. She was super cute either way! And she got to go Trick-or-Treating with the bag I made last year.

Quilt Bee: Project Six

2009-10-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

Deirdre was our sixth Underground Sewers project (we have a website now, thanks Lynn!). She chose almost every design in the Lizzy House Red Letter Day fabric collection. Her instructions were 10" square log cabin style quilt blocks. Super fun!

For the first block, I chose to stick within the pink colorway and combine the birds, trees and stripes. Love those birds!

For my second block, I painstakingly matched up all the seams to make continuous circles in the various colors. Very tricky, very fun. Great for a perfectionist like me.

The winner is...

2009-10-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

Ed McMahon, aka Sasha Dronkers, assisted with the random selection of the winner of the 100th post celebratory potholders. The winner is DEIRDRE! (Actual Deirdre not pictured above.)

Further proof that the first person to enter a contest can win! I wrote all the names on post-it notes, sealed them in half, shuffled them into a bowl and had Sasha pick the winning post-it. She picked it, opened it herself, and read "Deirdre" to us. Wait, that last part isn't true. Sasha can't read.

Deirdre, I think this is your karmic answer to helping me figure out how I wanted to quilt these potholders. I hope that makes you love them even more! Thanks to Mike for his mad Photoshop skillz. And thanks to all who visited my blog! And entered the giveaway!

100th post! A giveaway! Free stuff!

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Do you like to win stuff?

Thank you for reading my blog! To celebrate 100 posts on www.saraisabee.com, I invite you to enter my little giveaway. Handmade potholders!

These are like mini-quilts with Alexander Henry's Apples & Pears fabric on one side, red with white polka dots on the other, and brown cotton binding. In between there is a special heat-protective layer so you don't burn your fingers when pulling things out of the oven.

Each potholder was quilted and hand bound lovingly, with bonus hanging hooks too! Who doesn't need potholders? Who doesn't need a Christmas gift for someone who cooks? Who doesn't like free stuff?

To enter this contest, leave a comment on this post at saraisabee.com (not facebook!) by Sunday, October 18 at 8pm Pacific. Make sure you leave contact info if you're not sure I have it already, in case you win. The winner will be selected at random. Happy 100th post to me...happy 100th post to me...

Welcome, Finn!

2009-10-13T20:53:00.000-07:00

A little boy named Finn Smith G. was welcomed to the world over the weekend. We can't wait to meet him in person!

Since he and his parents live in Portland, we shipped off a little care package. First, a taggie blanket that will hopefully be as big a hit as the last one I made.

Vintage cotton print with blue sky and white puffy clouds on one side, soft blue minky on the other. In between the layers, I added a layer of crinkle - babies do love that stuff. Along with assorted bits of my ribbon stash.

Then, what Portland baby's wardrobe would be complete without something bicycle-themed? A long sleeved shirt with an old fashioned bicycle applique.

Last, a super silly t-shirt I came upon. Welcome to the world, Finn!

Last but not least, I'm afraid I was a tease last time. This is really my 99th post - next up will be my 100th post! Don't give up on me yet! The giveaway will begin tomorrow, Oct. 14 at noon o'clock Pacific time!

Snack bags

2009-10-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

Reusable snack bags for dry snacks like crackers, pretzels, etc. To replace ziplock bags in Sasha's lunch! Using this pattern and some scrap fabric, these are a super fast project. We've already been using the yellow one for weeks to hold goldfish crackers - "Mama, they match yellow!"

Next post! 100th blog post! GIVEAWAY! Stay tuned!

For strolling

2009-09-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

After:

Before:

For a dear little one who loves to walk and push, when I saw this doll stroller at a rummage sale I snatched it with these plans. At long last, my second doll stroller project is complete.

Retro green flower fabric from Scottie Dog Quilts in Eureka. I made my own yellow bias tape for the edges and seat belt from plain cotton fabric. Yellow chick ribbon at the top from Fabric Temptations in Arcata. No pattern, just used the hideous version as a template.

Soon! My 100th post! And a giveaway!

Quilt Bee: Project Five

2009-09-09T21:38:00.000-07:00

Marina was our fifth Underground Sewers project, and she divvied out her beloved vintage fabric scraps for her quilt. In an effort to break out of our type-A tendencies, she also gave some challenging instructions forbidding us from using our rotary cutters and rulers and use only scissors to make strips and rectangles improv-style. The results were eclectic and fun.

Birthday superhero

2009-09-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Every four-year-old boy needs a cape, right? I'm going to count wearing the cape for the rest of the party as a notch in the win category.

Pattern from Stitched In Time by Alicia Paulson. I've had this book for awhile now and have really looked forward to using it. This pattern was very simple and fun, I'm looking forward to making even more projects from this book.

A yellow applique "R" on simple white cotton, with white pompoms and navy blue rickrack. The reverse is a glittery moon, stars and sun theme that I've had for many years.

Quilt Bee: Project Four

2009-09-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

That's mine! The girls of Underground Sewers (our new official name!) contributed to my quilt many months ago. So many squares, I'm amazed. I decided to primarily use the Mendocino fabric line by Heather Ross since it so wonderfully ties in our living room colors and love of the sea. Other than that, I let everyone do whatever inspired them, with the instruction to keep it simple. Look at all these squares - this isn't even all of them!

Lynn had the wondrous idea of spelling out our last name in the nautical flag alphabet. And was even silly enough to worry someone else might have the same idea. Creative genius!

Next up, collect squares from the girl-who-shall-remain-nameless that is still working on them, assemble all the squares into a quilt top with aqua sashing, find a soft fabric for the back, quilt and bind the whole thing. Whew! A long way to go yet...

Passport & document clutch

2009-08-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

I set out to make a little purse I could use in Aruba for a few essentials, and ended up making this little clutch that could serve that purpose, but for the flights ahead will instead organize our passports, boarding passes, etc. Who knew a little week vacation would inspire so many crafts? I didn't even get to several of the others I had planned.

Black and white flower fabric from Kauai, yellow lining fabric from JoAnns. Pattern from (and on the cover of) Bend the Rules Sewing by Amy Karol.

Ayo! (That's goodbye in Papiamentu)

Another skirt?

2009-08-17T19:22:00.000-07:00

When a girl who has only worn skirts for two straight months asks for a new one, it's not hard to oblige. After making so many, I have it down to a science! This one took exactly one hour.

Pink mushroom fabric and ribbon hem from JoAnns.

We'll see if it beats out this one for the top spot.

Drawstring bags

2009-08-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

Drawstring bags based loosely on the pattern in Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. For organizing random stuff like snacks and sunglasses in the huge Aruba bag! The countdown has begun...T minus six days!

Green gingham scraps from a rummage sale, lime green Fabric Temptations ribbon.

Vintage pillowcase from a yard sale or thrift store, yellow ribbon tape from Fabric Temptations in Arcata.

Hand-me down fabric, pink ribbon tape from Fabric Temptations.

Very thrifty projects!

Safe Motherhood Quilt Project

2009-08-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

The Safe Motherhood Quilt Project is a national effort developed to draw public attention to the current maternal death rates, as well as to the gross underreporting of maternal deaths in the United States, and to honor those women who have died of pregnancy-related causes since 1982. In 2005, the United States reported 15.1 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, up from 7.5 per 100,000 in 1982. The quilt is made up of individually designed squares; each one devoted to a woman in the U.S. who has died of pregnancy-related causes since 1982. One quilt square is designed and dedicated to each mother's memory. The Safe Motherhood Quilt is the voice for women who can no longer speak for themselves.

According to her obituary, Judy Dominguez Trunnell, age 33, passed away May 5, 2009 in Harlingen, Texas. She dedicated 8 years as an educator at the Mercedes Independent School District, serving children with special needs. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, and mother. She is survived by her loving family: husband, Steven; two daughters, Hannah Rayne and Gabbie Ella; parents, brother and sister. Provided by the Safe Motherhood Quilt Project, Judy had slipped into a coma while ill with swine flu two weeks previous to her death. Her healthy baby girl was delivered by c-section, then she died.

I struggled a bit with this project, but for some reason was drawn to blue and stars, along with some nursery items pictured on blue fabric. This was my first experience with printable fabric, and I'm pretty pleased with it. A simple square, but it serves the purpose.

Aruba, Jamaica, ooh I want to take you...

2009-07-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Inspired by our upcoming vacation to Aruba, I made the Everything Tote from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross.

This bag is huge. It may not look massive in these photos, but trust me, it is. Big enough for 3 beach towels, a bucket and shovel, and snacks. This bag will be beachbound.

Both bird fabrics are from Ikea. The pattern called for the interior pocket divided in two to hold your cell phone and wallet, I added the hook for easy to find keys.

The pattern was a little confusing/fussy when it came to the binding and handles. I used the measurements and initial instructions and then improvised from there.

With the sides tucked in, it looks like a hobo style bag. I foresee this bag getting lots of use, in and out of Aruba!

Skirt bonanza continues

2009-07-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Since Sasha is going strong on her 2 month skirt spree (all skirts, nothing but skirts, all the time), I figured I would make yet another. This time my inspiration was to make a skirt to match her Bob Marley shirt ("Get Up Stand Up" is my favorite! - Sasha) that always sits in the drawer suffering from not having any skirts that match it.

The color is a little funky in the photos, but it's just a plain solid red. I used this tutorial to make a 3-tier skirt, and my usual Lazy Days Skirt instructions for the ribbon hem. Red fabric from JoAnns, ribbon from Michaels.

Up next, a non-skirt item! I promise.

Vintage pillowcase

2009-07-12T08:55:00.000-07:00

A new pillowcase so Sasha can sleep with a pillow during naptime at school. I kept it simple, using part of a vintage sheet I got at a yard sale not long ago.

I also made a new brown flannel pillowcase for her bed pillow at home, but every time I think to photograph it, she's sleeping on it! It's not very exciting anyway.

The Little Green One

2009-06-26T22:10:00.000-07:00

Brobee!

For the times Sasha gets to watch tv, Yo Gabba Gabba is definitely her favorite show. A few weeks ago she was watching this video (careful - a video automatically starts playing when you click that!) she said "I want a shirt like them!" I had a white shirt on hand so I put this together with eco-felt and a template for Brobee's face. She loves it!

This is Sasha in her new Brobee shirt after utterly exhausting herself at Bounce-A-Palooza tonight, looking at her dad's new iphone (Happy Father's Day!).

Birthday girls!

2009-06-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

For two girls born almost exactly two years apart, who can resist matching skirts?

These girls are about to start sailing the seas of blue, so this fabric seemed to suit them: little whales wearing sailor hats!

The three-year-old's red gingham pockets are trimmed with blue rickrack, as is the hem. The one-year-old has a white ruffle hem and white rickrack on the pockets.

All supplies are from JoAnn's, except the red gingham from Fabric Temptations in Arcata. I can't get enough of this Lazy Days Skirt pattern!

Craft It Forward part 2

2009-06-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

I posted my offer to Craft It Forward three months ago(!), and finally delivered one of my handcrafted gifts today. A what-not bag similar to the one I gaveaway.

The orange fabric with birds is home decor weight and from Ikea. The black & white floral lining is from our trip to Kauai last year. Ribbon from Jo-Anns.

April, I hope you enjoy a new spot for your what-nots!

I made three of these what-not bags at once to be more efficient. One was botched, so I'm keeping it!

See that little gather on the side? FAIL.

Rachelle: was your comment on my original Craft It Forward an entry for a handcrafted item? Or just an innocent comment?

Oriana: are you in? I still have one spot available to receive a craft!

A cozy gift for someone new

2009-06-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

A baby blanket for a new little guy. Pattern from Bend the Rules Sewing. I swore I wouldn't make that pattern again, but here it is, and it turned out better this time. I still don't appreciate sewing all those curves though.

Another little hand-embroidered patch. Solid brown flannel on one side, thrifted cotton fabric on the other, and 50% bamboo/50% organic cotton batting in between.

I have a logo!

2009-06-10T17:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a very, very good friend, I now have my own logo that you can see in my new header. If you're reading through Google Reader, click on through to www.saraisabee.com!

I came up with a basic idea of what I wanted, and Zeke helped me turn it into a digital image and refine it in ways I didn't even think of. Zeke, a handknit hat is coming your way!

Hopefully some craft labels will be in my near future featuring my new logo for saraisabee handmade. I need to get on that.

Sasha's green skirt

2009-06-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

Another skirt for Sasha! This time she picked some green gingham I found at a rummage sale. I added the white ruffle and round pockets. The pattern, again, is free from Oliver + S. It's a nice, fast pattern!

The key to making clothes Sasha will actually wear seems to be letting her pick out the fabric. Then she adores it and wants to wear it daily!

Next she's requested a Brobee shirt from Yo Gabba Gabba. Hmm...

And the winner is...

2009-06-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

Sue of Suebee's World! Congratulations!

Thank you to everyone who visited my blog and commented. I am blown away by the number of comments, and more importantly, the kind things people said!

Giveaway Day!

2009-05-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

SewMamaSew is a blog I follow with great ideas, tutorials, and inspiration. May 27 is the beginning of Giveaway Day, where through their blog, you can find tons of other blogs posting giveaways. Here is mine!

This is a small storage container for storing whatnots, notions, scraps, buttons - you name it. It's handmade by me using this pattern from vlijtig and fabric from Moda's American Jane line.

To enter the contest, just leave a comment by May 31st! Make sure you include your email so I can contact you if you win. I will ship anywhere within the U.S. and the winner will be selected randomly.

Seashells and Mendocino fabric for display purposes only :).

Summer Skirt for Sasha

2009-05-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

Sasha only wants to wear skirts and dresses these days. When I came home with this hand-me-down fabric, she instantly chose it for her mama-made skirt.

I used this simple, free pattern and it was smooth sailing. The only thing is, I made it too long. She doesn't mind, and that means it will last even longer, so I guess it's a good thing.

Look alive! Next post will be a giveaway contest!

Turning lemons to lemonade

2009-05-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

Rather, apple and pears to appleade and pearade? This shirt came brand new in the package, and when we opened it, it was riddled with holes and stains. Since it was purchased far away, what could we do, but applique it?

Fabric is Alexander Henry's Apples and Pears.

Stay tuned for updates ahead and a give-away!

For a Superhero

2009-05-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

What do you give a boy turning two years old when he lives in a daycare with all the toys in the world? Something personalized!

Now he can be a superhero with his cape and glittery mask. Pattern from The Long Thread. Mask template from FamilyFun. The cape is all cotton fabrics, the mask is ecospun felt.

Finger Update

2009-05-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

How does a finger almost completely regrow? Somehow, it does.

Quilt Bee: Project Three

2009-05-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

For our third quilt bee project, we worked with retro fabrics for a quilt for Lynn's soon to be completed house. We each created 12x12" squares with one instruction: no curves. Nothing but straight lines and angles. My first block, above, is just a checkerboard of all the different fabrics.

A house block for the new house!

Check Lynnerd for future updates on this quilt!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

One of my Mother's Day gifts from Mike was the afternoon free time to finish these coasters. Yay! That is a real gift.

This is the project I started that fateful night when I lost part of my finger. I decided to pick it back up yesterday, and voila - they're done. The pattern is from Last-Minute Patchwork & Quilted Gifts, my second time using it. Nice pattern. The fabric with woods creatures and sayings is from ReproDepot Fabrics, and I used it on another project last November. The other fabric, which reminds me of woodgrain, I purchased some months ago on sale at Scottie Dog Quilts.

These coasters will live on our dining table, and the Autumn leaves will retire until next Fall.

Mission: Smocking

2009-04-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

My new favorite book, Heather Ross' Weekend Sewing, gives a very simple explanation for how to do smocking with a normal sewing machine using elastic thread. As you can see in the closer image below, smocking is a method often used on sundresses and it's crazy cute. I was so excited to try it that I was able to overcome my finger's fear of my craft area, and give this dress a try.

The fabric is from Fabric Temptations in Arcata, and though I can't find it online, the selvage says it's from the Aunt Grace line by Judie Rothermel for Marcus Brothers Textiles. I made matching bloomers, though (surprise, surprise) Blogger is not cooperating so you have to crane your neck sideways.

Quilt Bee: Project Two

2009-04-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

For our second month of the quilt bee, Nikki decided to use her turn to create a surprise birthday quilt for Antonio! He was surprised, and didn't it turn out beautifully? All the girls except for one were there to present it to him on his actual birthday.

We each created a strip that was 5" x 36". Nikki found these amazing batik fabrics, along with some textured fabrics to use with the idea of creating a strip with an aquatic theme. I chose to do a wonky piecework backing with a kelp applique of blue microsuede.

Nikki combined all the quilt strips into a beautiful quilt, using the soft blue microsuede fabric as the edge and back. Here it is, assembled and close-up, half at a time:

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

Sasha awoke to find this bunny in her Easter basket, along with other fun things.

This bunny was created using a pattern from Purl Bee, and the clothes to match. There's another pattern for a rabbit dress, so if Sasha shows interest in changing the bunny's clothes, maybe I'll make that too.

Blue polka dot fabric scrap from...a yard sale? A scrap bin in a fabric store? Little Dutch-looking people fabric on the cuffs from ReproDepot.

p.s. I made this before the finger incident.

Bloody Sunday

2009-03-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Warning: graphic photos ahead. Not for the faint of heart.

I don't remember many specifics about what happened. I decided to make us some new Spring coasters and was cutting fabric with my rotary cutter. The next thing I knew, part of my finger was on the cutting mat.

I called Mike for help. I wrapped it in a paper towel. I fainted and fell to the ground (and had super crazy dreams). I came to and coped with the fact that this wasn't a dream. We talked to Mike's mom who is a nurse, and she got a doctor on the line for a 3-way call. We decided not to go to the emergency room. We went to the kitchen sink to clean the wound. I fainted again, had crazy dreams, and again had to come back to the reality of what had happened. Attempted to sleep on the couch with my arm elevated. Slept for maybe 2 hours total.

This morning, Mike went to the store and got essentials: gauze, medical tape, latex gloves, antiseptic antibacterial pain relieving spray, and Peanut M&Ms. I'm home today and kept Sasha with me to avoid having to drive. Hopefully I'll get a nap in this afternoon. And hopefully I won't have a chunk out of my finger forever.

Stop now if you don't want to see the aftermath.