Peasant Top

I finished McCalls 5050, view A, a few weeks ago couldn't decide on how to finish it off. I didn't want the bow at the neck as I thought it would make me look like a kindergartner. I decided to try a thin "belt" effect instead. I think I like it and although I wore it today as is, I will add mini belt loops to hold the corded belt up high.

The fabric is a raspberry cotton eyelet purchased on clearance at JoAnn's last year. I think it cost me $2, no lie! The elastic cost more than the fabric.

This was a very easy pattern to make with one exception. I HATE elastic in casings. It was really hard for me to massage the elastic around so it was uniformly distributed. Not sure what my problem is; others don't seem to have the same issue.

Forgive the photo - used my Treo camera in the ladies room at work. LOL!

Cropped Cardigan

I finished the Cropped Cardigan from Blue Sky Alpaca. I was able to use up some stash yarn - Knitpicks Merino Style in petal pink (doubled). This cardigan was super easy to make. I love that the edges are self finished in seed stitch - no need to pick up any stitches. I figured out how to knit on two circs with this project - easy peasy. I can't believe I never tried it sooner. I like it way better than DPNs - no ladders!

I will probably wear the sweater open but I closed it in the photo with one of the cool shawl pins made by Romi and purchased from Scout's Swag.

As much as I hate to repeat projects, I may make another of these.

Sewin' Sunday

I finished up two sewing projects today. Isn't Lola looking lovely in her new halter top?


McCalls M5048, View C
Fabric - woven cotton poly blend from JoAnn's

I just love this "party dress". Now I need an invitation....



McCalls 4826, View C (I omitted the bow. I didn't think the dress needed it.)
Fabric - Polka Dot is a pimatex cotton from Kaufman; pink is a poly/cotton blend (both purchased from fabric.com)

We have a winner!

LOLA

“Her name is LOLA.

She was a showgirl.”

Spanish meaning - Strong Woman

How can I go wrong with a strong woman who used to be a showgirl? Congratulations to Linda & Allison for suggesting the name! A prize will be headed your way soon!

Name That Dummy Contest

I have always wanted a dressform. I've seen the homemade duct tape versions (ick!), and the paper maché prototype (too much work) but I've always wanted one of the adjustable models. In the past, they have cost more than $200 and I couldn't justify diverting fabric / yarn funds on a dressform.

Over the weekend, I re-visited the idea and thought, "I'll have to remember this idea next time my family complains I’m so hard to buy for asks me for gift ideas." Hey.... wait a minute..... Didn't I just receive a JoAnn's gift card for my birthday? And doesn't JoAnn's online have them on sale right now? And don't I also have a free shipping coupon for JoAnn's? CHA CHING!

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY, MY LITTLE DRESSFORM!! Isn't she lovely? I've only seen pictures but the stork should be delivering my new addition in a week or so.

Now, she needs a name. Debbie has given me some good suggestions but I'm not sure I've found exactly the right name yet. So I propose a contest. Suggest a name (leave a comment with your email address) for my new dressform and if I adopt the name you suggest, I'll send you a prize. The name should be a little spunky, maybe a little diva, have a little attitude. There is no set deadline. I'll end the contest when the perfect name presents itself (even if I think of it myself!)

Sewing Progress

After the Easter baskets were found and the cooking was just about finished, I was able to spend the afternoon sewing. I made some progress on my daughter's headboard and cut out the black / pink polka dot dress. I have the bodice just about put together but after checking the sizing, I realize it's too snug. I need to add about an inch if I hope to breath. Not quite sure how I'll expand it yet. I could take it all apart and let the side seams out but then I'll have to cut new contrast pieces. Not the end of the world but I'm going to ponder it to see if I can come up with a better (i.e. easier!) solution.

Happy Easter!

I found this adorable graphic at Mandy's blog. Too Cute!

The baskets have been found; much of the candy has been eaten; the food has been prepared; so it's time to relax.

HAPPY EASTER!!

Yarn & Fabric Puchases

Allison once again talked me into buying yarn. I purchased these little beauties from Little Knits, a company in Seattle, Washington that I highly recommend. Great communication - the shipper even sent a notification when the package was delivered to my front porch. The top yarn is a Lace Weight Misti Alpaca - purfect for a mini shawl / scarf. The four skeins on the bottom left are a yarn called Peru Luxury DK, a blend of merino, alpaca and silk. Mmm mmm. Great for hand warmers. And finally, the dark purple is the softest merino lace weight I've ever felt called Cashwool. Will make a beautiful lace shawl. Someday.



I was inspired by this dress and will make something similar using these red and red/white print silky fabrics and Vogue 8182, view A.


This picture doesn't do much for the fabric but it's a lovely sheer cream color with brown and tan flowers. I hope to make S3956 with it.



Finally, this brown fabric will make a nice top using New Look 6655 or maybe New Look 6669.


And I leave you with the latest Devil Dogs' escapade. For those of you who have read Marley & Me by John Grogan (LOVED this book), Marley was NOT the World's Worst Dog!

GO BUCKS!

National Champtionship Tonight!

Is it Spring Yet?

I finished up this halter top this afternoon. It's a beautiful spring day here but alas, it is turning cold later in the week so I won't get to wear it any time soon!

Breakfast Goodies

My family loves the carbs for breakfast. Yesterday I made waffles and today I made sticky buns - a quick and easy recipe that turns out sooooo yummy! Your family will applaud you for making it (or they might complain that you put nuts on it, like mine did.)