Bon Souvenir

Fireworks Dress

2009-07-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

I finished this dress for Saga this morning. It was meant to be for the Fourth of July, but I didn't get it done in time. This was a good thing because Saga found a dirt mound to play in while we listened to a band. The dress is based on a nightgown pattern, and I just added the tie to give it some more shape. She wants a princess dress which I need to get to, but I have other dresses already cut out and in the queue. Enjoy the weekend!

Elodie

2009-07-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

There is a good reason for my time away. Here she is. We named her Elodie. Well, actually I named her and my husband was kind enough to go along with it. She is two months now, and a total cutie.

Okay, back to sewing. I have been sewing, but mostly out of necessity. Making tote bags as gifts and the sort. Saga needs some new summer dresses because she is growing so quickly. All the tops I made last summer will not fit me anytime soon. Belly be gone! So I am working on something new today. I did make a couple of knit maternity tops using the BBW 3835 pattern. They worked out well, and I will be cutting them up to repurpose the 3 yards of fabric needed to make them. Hope to post again soon with a new top.

Happy 2009!

2008-12-31T12:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have no other excuse as to why I was away for a month other than this pregnancy has made me into a semi-functioning human. I feel so bad to have been away so long, and even worse to not have been visiting all my favorite blogs. I am feeling better due to the winter school holiday. There has been a lot of sleeping in and lounging. Christmas here was wonderful. I did manage to make a scarf for my mom and brother. Finished just hours before we left to join them for Christmas Eve.

The big news this month is that Saga turned 2! We had a small family party for her. My brother gave her a laptop computer that teaches letter sounds, and she has not let go of it since. She is talking so much now. She has also started singing, and entertains herself with a song. I hope to finish of a couple of pairs of pants for her before I go back to school on Monday.

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday, and the best to you in the new year!

Making Preparations

2008-11-29T09:09:00.001-08:00

I went to Joann's to buy some fabric for stockings and a Christmas tree skirt. I had to search through bolts of of starchy, glittery, and yikes fabrics. I almost lost hope. Until I found these three. They are festive, but simple enough to use year after year. I hope to get to them this weekend because then we need to buy the tree, right.
I have been hibernating a bit, actually a lot. I nap any chance I get, and have been sick in the stomach way. I have finally made it to the other side of the first trimester. After a very bumpy start, I am so thankful to say I am pregnant. Now the nausea needs to go away so I can get all this Christmas sewing done!

Cape

2008-11-16T07:59:00.000-08:00

A new cape was in order for Saga. I made her one last winter, but sadly it slipped out of my bag and was lost. So this weekend I made her a new one. I used fleece the wonder fabric. I know it is a fancy polyester, but it is so warm. She needs it for the car ride in the morning. These capes are perfect to use in carseats. We won't be using it this weekend. It is in the 70's here, and look that tree in the picture hasn't even started to lose its leaves. There is a beautiful view of the lake behind that tree so it needs to get to it.

I have spent part of the weekend looking for Thanksgiving recipes. I am making the dinner for my small family this year. I will just make turkey breasts not the whole bird. I felt really nontraditional about this until I saw even Ina does it! I will use her recipe, and make my mom's traditional sides. Fingers crossed it will all work out.

Overalls

2008-11-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

As soon as I saw this fabric at the end of the summer I knew what I would make with it. It is the softest corduroy and makes Saga say, "So Cute!" It can't get better than that. It was so easy to put together. It did prove that my buttonhole function is no longer working. It just creates a knotted mess. Thank goodness for snaps.

This is how she decided to dress up her new outfit. She is really into her purses. They are filled with this and that, and must always be on her arms when we leave. She can also put on her own shoes now. The shoes and the overalls clash in a way that hurts the eyes, but there was no telling her that. The sunglasses are another must have before she leaves. She is very proud that she can put them on herself. Growing up so fast...

Lounging Pants

2008-11-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I finally got to sew this morning! I made these corduroy pants for Saga. I cut them out without a pattern, and luckily they fit nicely. After I went to Joann's for more corduroy and found that it was on sale for $3 a yard. So now I have a stack ready to be made into pants. This means I have plans to get up very early tomorrow to get a head start.

To Remember Forever

2008-11-04T20:33:00.000-08:00

Here is my family on this extraordinary night. I waited for my husband to get home so we could vote together. When we got home Obama was projected the winner. Our country will be changed forever. Once again there is Hope.

Pink and Fuzzy

2008-11-02T19:40:00.000-08:00

Even though I got early and cut out a pair of pants for Saga I never got to them. Today she wore a little dress I made for her last December. It is more of a tunic now. The cutout is from a cloth napkin I bought at a tag sale 10 years ago. My husband told me she looked like a Viking baby in this dress. Okay, I see he has a point.

Here she is wearing it last January. She was proud of those new teeth you can see

2008-10-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

I survived the move, but just barely. Most of the house is together except the sewing room which is filled to the ceiling with boxes. I hope to make a sizable dent in it this weekend, fingers crossed. We moved back to the town where I grew up. If you would have told me I would be living in this town again I would never believe you. This morning driving to work a packed bus of teenagers rode past. I knew they were on the way to my old high school. That was the same bus I took to school. Yesterday Saga and I went for a walk along the creek behind our house. I grew up along this creek. Saga loves birds, and the creek and nearby lakes attract many migratory birds. She had a great time bird watching, and I thought about how funny it felt to be back at this place. Strange, but comforting. I was the mom now, and I didn't have to think of an excuse of why I was late for dinner.

Let Me Explain

2008-10-19T20:32:00.001-07:00

I admit, I made Saga and I matching tops. I bought this Erin McMorris fabric and thought I would make a shirt for myself. I ended up making my standby, and I felt bad to keep this awesome fabric all to myself. This is how Saga's top came to be. This is the part I can't believe I am going to reveal. We have worn them at the same time, but just once. I was visiting my mom and she reminded me how she would make us matching dresses every year for the church tea. I remember one of the dresses, long and green that a had a 70's vibe with its belt and huge collar. So that day for my mom's benefit we wore our matching tops, and I found out people really notice that type of thing.

Beginning of Fall

2008-10-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to a harvest festival. We had a lot of fun, and there was finally a chill in the air. We walked through a cornfield collecting Indian corn, and listened to some old time music. Saga was dancing and dancing and we had to stay until the music ended. On the way home we enjoyed beautiful views of San Francisco and the bay. Excellent fall weekend.

Can you guess what Saga is going to be for Halloween? I had to hurry and make this Little Red Riding Hood costume because I need to pack up my sewing machine. We are moving in less than two weeks. I am so excited that we are moving to a larger place. While my husband stayed at home with Saga for a year and a half money was tight. Now we have the opportunity to move to a more spacious home, and I will have a room dedicated to sewing! I will share some photos when all is settled.

Hope I will need this soon...

2008-10-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

I made this scarf in an attempt to welcome fall, but it is still no go. It did rain in San Francisco on Saturday for the first time since May, I believe. Saga was amazed and went out to walk around just saying, agua, agua, over and over. The scarf was a my bathtime project. Often after work I just can't sit still, so while Saga is in the bath I crochet. The funny thing is I get tennis elbow from crocheting. Obviously, I have bad form. I need to experiment with different positions to see if it improves.

This weekend Saga and I went to visit my mom in the Central Valley. We went to a small fabric shop that carried many designer fabrics. It was great to see them in person. I bought the ones above. The first 3 were in a group labeled 1940's prints. They were all on sale that made them even more attractive. I was also excited to find 100% cotton gingham. It was wonderful to be in a fabric store with my mom again. She is an amazing quilter, and I must of asked her a hundred questions. I actually keep a list that I go through when I see her. Just a great weekend overall...

Present for a new friend.

2008-10-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

Today is one of my colleague's birthday. She is an amazing teacher who has helped me heaps since I started at my new school. She is the type of teacher parents hope for, and the type that young girls imitate at home teaching their younger brothers and sisters. As I was sewing this I knew she was at home going through student data and making a strategy how to teach the next lesson. I knew I wanted to make her something for her birthday. I settled on this tote bag with a elongated pocket on front to hold pens and pencils. I know she is going to stuff it full of books and papers to take home for the night. I am so lucky in my new position. I have made wonderful new friends, and feel like I have been there for years. There is nothing like sitting with fellow teachers at lunch eating school pizza, laughing and laughing until the bell sends you all back to your students. Happy Birthday Kelly!

Get your dirt on.

2008-09-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks into the school year I realized I need to make Saga some play clothes. Specifically tops she could wear and I would not gasp when I say how dirty they were at the end of the day. Don't get me wrong I love that she is gardening and playing so freely during the day, but the condition of her clothes is scary. So, I made her a few basic tops out of old German duvet covers to wear over turtlenecks this fall. They are all bright, cheerful, and ready to play in. As you can see, she had this one on for an hour before she was wearing cinnamon. See they work perfectly.

Last one, for a long while. (I promise.)

2008-09-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

I finished this shirt a few weeks ago and packed it away in my closet because I was a bit angry with it. It had to do with the sleeves. Now you can guess why it is wearing a cardigan. I love this fabric, but I need to learn that I should use "safe" patterns with expensive fabric that I am in love with. I have made 3 other shirts with this pattern which you would think would make it safe. This time I went for a better fit and ended up with a slim silhouette, yet funky sleeves. So, unfortunately I will have to cover up my fitted look with a cardi. Maybe soon I will get over it and just redo the sleeves. In the meantime I am cutting out some more love fabric using a sure thing pattern. I bet you cannot guess what pattern I am going to use. Thank you all for the nice comments about the skirt:)

The 50 minute skirt!

2008-09-24T05:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, my plan worked! Cut out a pattern on the weekend and sneak in sewing time at night. I was able to get this skirt together quickly. As you can see it takes 10 minutes more than the 40 minute skirt, it's the trim. I wanted to use this fabric for myself, but I knew a whole skirt made from it would be too much. So, I just did a cutout. I never sew with black fabric so that was a little strange. It felt like I was making a witch's costume or something. When I added the color it started to look like an Amish quilt to me. (I love Amish quilts!) But I have to say that I am the least precise "seamstress" ever. I swear it would kill me to use a measuring tool. I am sure stone age women were more accurate in their sewing of animal skins. If you look closely you can see the pieces in the front are not even the same size. oh, well. I added the bias trim because I don't like to wear black skirts and black tights together. The trim breaks the two up, and the fabric is very lightweight so the trim gives it some heft. I won't be wearing this skirt anytime soon because it is 85 degrees here! I am not a fan of the Indian Summer. I can see how fall in approaching through others blogs, and I am jealous.

*Disclaimer* I realize I made Saga and I garments using the same fabric, but I promise you will never catch us wearing them at the same time...

New Dress for Saga

2008-09-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

I made Saga another one of these dresses. I love how it turned out. I wasn't sure if the fabric combo would work. I wanted to make her a dress she could wear with her favorite patent red shoes. I had her try it on over her clothes and she wouldn't take it off. This is a good sign. She really enjoys putting her hands in the pockets. Other than sewing we have had a busy week. I finally have my work stamina, and can get so much more done. On Wednesday we went to the Mexican Independence Day celebration in our city. It was a great time with an amazing atmosphere. I saw so many families I know, and Saga danced the night away.

So good to be back.

2008-09-14T21:37:00.001-07:00

I can't tell you how excited I was to sit down at my machine and make this tote bag. After 2 weeks of a serious dry spell, it was heaven. I have been so busy getting back into the swing of things. I have not been able to keep up with my fave blogs, and having the energy to sew was out of the question. I now have more of a handle on things, and I have been daydreaming about sewing all day. Let me tell you a little about this simple tote. I bought the fabric at the Alameda Flea Market last weekend. It is a nice canvas, and I love the print. The pocket is made from one of the many German, gingham duvets I bought. I really like how it turned out. I always use totes. I have so for so long that having to use a proper purse feels very fancy.

Even after posting this sign in my classroom, I got a cold. The first one this year, but it was not bad. It moved through the classroom like wildfire. Colds are just considered an occupational hazard. I also saw this sweet doll at the flea market. I have had this same doll since I was four. It surprised me to see it sitting all alone. I took the picture to show my mom because she saved my dolls for me for so many years. Saga plays with them, and that makes me so happy.

Endings and New Beginnings

2008-09-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

So the summer is over. It was wonderful, and I can't wait for next years. I am excited about working in a new school, and meeting 20 new children that I know I will love and grow with throughout the year. Over the past weeks I have been working to prepare my classroom, and let me bore you with some photos.

Here is what the room looked like when I moved in.

Remember how I made a goal for myself to make 6 shirts. I thought I was going to have to settle with one short, but I got this one together over the weekend. I end the summer with a BBW just like I started. BUT, I have learned so much between these two shirts. Now it is time to set new sewing goals, and I can't wait to see where it takes me.

40 minute skirt!

2008-08-29T21:15:00.001-07:00

Here is my 40 minute skirt. Yes, 40 minutes from the first cut to the finishing the hem. I just used another skirt as a pattern, and wished for the best. I actually made 2 skirts. You can see the first blue one peeking out on the side. After that one worked out I was brave enough to cut into this beautiful fabric (Kaffe Fasset, Verbena Trees). Oh, If I were to design a fabric it would look just like this one. I can't wait to wear my skirt with brown tights and a cardigan. Since it has been near 100 degrees the last few days I think I will have to wait a little longer. The funny thing is that I made these two skirts on Monday, but I just have been so busy I didn't have time to photograph them.

Fall, Where are you?

2008-08-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

I am officially tired of hot weather. I can't wait for the chill of fall. I will need to wait a while longer because we always have a long Indian summer in California. What is making me happy is making this new dress for Saga. It felt so wonderful making her something again. I have so many ideas right now. This is the simplest dress, but I love how it is so easy to add layers. A red turtleneck would be so cute. The trim on the neck came for i heart linen. I just love it, I wish I had more. When Saga wears this dress I know she is going to look like the big girl she is quickly becoming.

Last One

2008-08-23T23:26:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this shirt for more than a week. It gave me quite a fight too. I am happy how it turned out in the end. It was so nice to sew on the buttons while it is on the dress form. This first night I had the dress form Saga walked into the bedroom and quickly ran out after seeing it out of the corner of her eye. I guess I am not the only one that finds it creepy. I have been working so hard in my classroom, and I am finally done. I have never finished early. Usually I am running around finishing in a race with the security alarm the day before school starts. Now I have next weekend to relax and spend the last restful days with Saga. I will try to make something for Saga this week. I so miss making a new dresses for her.

Almost there, #4

2008-08-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

Surprise another shirt. This is one of my favorite fabrics. I have had it for years. I used it to make my ironing board cover a few months ago. Here it is finally a shirt. I really took my time with this one making adjustments to get the perfect fit. It was the first time I used this pattern and next time I will make a smaller size. I finally lost all my baby weight and have to realize that I don't need to make everything so big. I have transferred to a new school this school year which is life changing for me. This week a friend helped me move my classroom, and now I just need to to go organize the "mess". This is a lot of work. That is why I have been a little absent. Sunday is usually my sewing day, but today I need to work in my classroom. Believe me the move is worth all this work. I have one more week of vacation, 2 more shirts to make, one classroom to organize, and one sweet girl to hug every moment.

First Etsy Fabrics

2008-08-14T04:01:00.000-07:00

So they have arrived and I love them!
These two are Two Young Street-Hugs and Kisses and Alexander Henry-Bijoux Dot
Heather Ross-Mermaids Mendocino line This will soon be a little dress for Saga. Two Japanese fabrics Little Red Riding Hood (be still my heart!) and Animal Village (This reminds me so much of 70's wallpaper, which is a compliment.)My Folklore from Lecien
I can't wait to use these, but I am happy just looking at them.

And another...

2008-08-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

Here is another school blouse #3. I love the tie sleeves, and will use them again with a more fitted pattern. This shirt is the one that finally convinced me to order a dress form. I can never get the fit right by the process I use now; try on, alter, try on, fix alter, try on, and again and again. The only issue is my sewing table is in my bedroon and having that dress form in there is kinda creepy. I am I the only one that feels that way? I may need to cover it at night. Officially two weeks left of my summer vacation. The bummer work news was thankfully a false alarm, although it gave me quite a scare. I am starting to look forward to a new school year. If I could only find a way to sneak Saga in with me each day all would be perfect.

L'odeur de boutons

2008-08-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

These are the vintage buttons I bought about 6 weeks ago. I finally got around to taking them out of their ziplock bag today. The reason it took so long is they have a serious stink on them. It is an old, musty, stale smell with a kick of something worse. I don't have a lot of experience with vintage buttons so maybe this is just how they smell. Today I washed all the loose ones and discarded the random nonbutton pieces I found in the bag. After I washed them the colors were so vibrant, but they are still stinky. If you have any advice please tell me! I am still trying to finish my school blouses, but I have been so distracted with organizing my home. There is not a nook or cranny that has been overlooked, everything now has its place. I am convinced the more organized I make our home will translate into an easier transition back to work. Well we will see how well it works soon enough.
Now I have those shirts to finish.

Another Blouse...

2008-08-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Who knew getting bummer news from work and getting up at 4am because you can't sleep can lead to so much productivity! I cut out two more blouses, bought fabric on ETSY (a first for me, too fun), bought a watch on Amazon, and caught up on my blog reading. I should get up at 4 more often. Yesterday after hearing the bummer news I came home, and made this shirt in 2 hours. Saga thankfully was spending the afternoon at the babysitters, where she has the best time playing with her buddies. I love the two fabrics, but they would be too matronly alone. So I made a contrasting collar. You will soon see as I finish these blouses I am very conservative, in clothing only that is. Remember my fashion icon is Caroline Ingalls, although I also love the stylings of Eliza Jane Wilder Walnut Grove's favorite teacher. Thank you sewing for being there when I get down, you are such a good friend.

Option #2

2008-08-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

This little dress had a change of plans. After I put on the collar I just wasn't sure. So I looked at it for a few days and knew I really didn't like it. So I made it into this top. I have made so many of these for Saga and I adore them. I can whip one of these up in no time.
Now I need to get going with my blouses for work. It is hard to find time to sew with my husband away working. Above you can see what Saga does when I sew. Three more weeks before I go back to school, so I better squeeze out some sewing time.

Flea market treasures.

2008-08-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

Early this morning Saga and I went to the Alameda Antique-Flea Market. I found a few things that I really love. I love this one stall that sell old nightshirts. She has the unbleached linen ones that are over 100 years old. I love just touching them. She also sells bolts of vintage linen. I finally bought a nightdress. I can't stop looking at it, with its beautiful French seams and sweet collar.
I also bought these gingham duvet covers and one sham. They are from Germany, and were just $5.00 a piece. I wanted to make a shirt for me and a dress for Saga, but I can't imagine putting scissors to them.
I picked up these vintage knitting and crocheting books. They have wonderful patterns. I have to make this coat for Saga. What a day. It is funny because it is always freezing there. Located on the bay, and always under the fog. I can't wait to go back next month.

Six Random Things

2008-08-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

So I was tagged by Lisa to list 6 random things about myself.

Here are the rules ...

1. Link to the person who “tagged” you.

2. Post the rules on your blog.

3. Write six random things about yourself.

4. Tag six people at the end of your post.

5. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

6. Let the tagger know your entry is up.

So here it goes,

1. I really loved to travel alone. You actually meet lots of people that way. I have even traveled alone in the Middle East. I learned it is not customary for women to take overnight bus trips through the Sinai.

2. I go crazy if someone is eating popcorn next to me at the movies.

3. I almost only listen to music from the 70's. I have the TIME LIFE Classic Soft Rock collection and I love it.

4. I am a complete germaphobe after catching a dozen colds from my students. My student teacher and I actually sprayed Lysol all over ourselves after a particularly germy day last fall.

5. I just learned today that Blue from Blue's Clue is a girl, and the dog with pink and purple polka dots is her brother. And that is just fine by me.

6. It scares me when I hear someone give the Dow Jones report in the Californian valley girl accent. Does this mean it is socially acceptable to talk that way? Like really?

I now tag:

You

WOW! Isn't it cool how the names lined up like that! Totally random, no lie.

Excellent news, minor freakout

2008-08-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

Whoa, this is the longest I have gone without posting this summer, but I have a good excuse. My husband accepted a job and he begins on Monday. We have been running around buying everything he is going to need, like $175 boots. I don't know what happened, but I got so, well I had a minor freakout because so many things were changing in one week. My husband will be traveling for work and will be gone for 4 days each week. I also had to accept Saga will have to go to a babysitters during the school year, and summer is almost over! I also received an email I have been waiting 3 months for that will lead to an exciting (but challenging) change for me.

My freakout consisted of me not being able to sew. I was working on this shirt, and I just couldn't finish. Instead I started organizing the house with a mission to end all clutter. I gave myself a pep talk, and made myself sit down and finish this blouse. I like it, and it is comfortable enough for the classroom. I have vowed to upgrade my work uniform this year. I want to make six blouses for the start of the year. So I better get out of my, "Oh, my gosh summer is almost over!", funk and get sewing.

I was tagged for the first time, yeah~ Thanks Lisa. I will start working on that now.

My favorite dress yet.

2008-07-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

This dress helped me face another sewing goal. Decorative Pockets. I bought this pattern (Butterrick 4172) and said I don't care how long it takes me I am making those pockets. It wasn't difficult at all, and they have great possibilities because you can use contrasting fabrics for the inside and outside. I used restraint with this dress. I always want to use so much color. I love the clothing made of muted linen fabrics that you see in Japanese craft books, but I just can't do it. The fact that this dress is just two colors is progress for me. I wanted to slap a green button on the front at the end, but I made myself just walk away. This dress is also the best fit I have managed for Saga which I am very happy about. So another goal down. I should face making a romper again.

I am so happy!

2008-07-28T13:46:00.000-07:00

Astrid from Connecting the dots... gave me the E for Excellent Blog award. Let's just say she made my day. I was so thrilled to receive it from her because I enjoy her blog immensely.

So now I will pass it on to a few blogs that I love, and look forward to each new post.

To Jeanne at Nantucket Mermaid. Jeanne and I have shared some pretty exciting times together. She is an amazing artist, and also has very talented sons. You are very lucky if you get to spend some time with Jeanne because she will have you laughing nonstop.

To Lisa and Sarah at A Spoonful of Sugar. How can I not love reading about a mother and daughter sewing team. They have excellent organization tips and tutorials. I can't wait to see what projects they do together in the summer.

To Jessica at Turkey Cookies. I feel that Jessica and I are on the same mission, to enjoy this summer to the fullest. I love reading about her summer days, and her commitment to local food.

Enjoy ladies, and thank you for making my day brighter!

Got to love orange buttons.

2008-07-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

I visited a new to me thrift store and was met with with a wonderful surprise. Patterns! I am never lucky at the thrift store, but it was my day. I found the sweetest size two patterns and they have never been used. Most of them are from the 70's which just excites me to no end. I also found a group of patterns from the 80's for me.

This is the new shirt I made for myself using one of the found patterns. It is from '82. I really like how it turned out. The fabric is an old sheet which I also found at the thrift store. I wanted to try out the pattern first before I used new fabric because I had to make size adjustments. I actually like this sheet shirt. Does it scream hello, I used to be a sheet? I also love how I got to use my vintage orange buttons. Really how many opportunities do you have to use orange buttons. I think I am going to take my sheet out for a spin today.

Let the sun shine!

2008-07-24T21:06:00.001-07:00

There is reason to celebrate in our home. My husband has graduated from a solar installation/maintenance program. For years he worked in Logistics and IT and was not happy. When I had Saga he became a stay at home dad, and loved every minute of it. He has always been interested in alternative energy, and vows one day we will live off the grid. I am so thankful that he was offered this training through a Federal grant. Now he can do what he is passionate about, and that is cause for celebration.

Last of the summer dresses.

2008-07-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

I think this will be the last summer dress. Saga has several now, and luckily it will stay warm here until mid-October. I just cut this out with kimono sleeves and hoped for the best. I added a front center seam which I really like. I also like the combination of the two fabrics together. I am so happy with how this dress turned out. Yeah success! It is a simple little dress, but suits Saga well.

Mission Santa Cruz

2008-07-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

I love history. My husband and I have always spent our vacations like this: fly into an airport with loads of camping gear, rent a car, drive around for two weeks stopping at every historical marker.Well living in California we are a bit historically deprived. I grew up in a town where an old house meant it was built in the 1940's. But we do have our Mission's all 21 of them. I see the missions as Mexican and Californian history, known as the history of Greater Mexico. So we started this weekend by visiting Mission Santa Cruz for the first time. It is one of the few missions that has the original adobe apartments used by the converted Native Americans. They are beautiful in their simplicity. My husband lived in an adobe home just like them as a child in rural Mexico. Visiting Mission Santa Cruz reminded me how each mission has its own history and "personality". I look forward to sharing California with Saga and showing her how many became one which is what California is really about.

We have a zipper.

2008-07-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

So I faced my fear of my zipper, actually it was the fear of the zipper foot. Just figuring how to get that thing on the machine was half the battle. (I have a old school machine, but it has never let me down.) I started with Michelle's glue stick zipper tutorial which is great, and guess what, it was easy, easy! I did start my zipper down too far and had to add a hook and an eye at the end. I can't tell you how many times I pass on a pattern because it has a zipper, but those days are over. Yeah! I haven't put in a zipper for 15 years, and all I've got to say is what's next.

I think you can see why Saga loves breakfast at IKEA. I do too, $5.15 gets you breakfast for three.

My Old Friend

2008-07-19T12:23:00.001-07:00

Okay this is my good friend. I am embarrassed to say it, but it is my 5th BBW top. This is my favorite type of top to wear when it is 90 degress and your classroon has no air conditioning. I know I need to take risks in sewing if I want to improve. But I need to take baby steps. Years and years ago I made most of my clothes. I was always trying new techniques, and often becoming frustrated. Eventually I became focused on what I could not do and not the progress I was making. I just gave it up, didn't sew clothes again for years. I can't help myself from thinking what I would be able to do now if I never walked away. I am making some sewing goals for myself. One of the wonderful things about sewing is there is so much to learn. (That is also what I love about teaching.) So here I go on my way to goal number one. Zipper.

ps. Can anyone share how to take a picture of gingham without it getting "wavy"?

Hi shirt, we are not friends.

2008-07-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

It started off so well. I really liked the pattern, and I love this fabric. I was happy with the pleats, and I made my machine sew through that bias tape and it hates thick layers. I accepted that I would have to make adjustments, and I promised myself not to get worked up about it. But the neck is huge, and there was no way my machine was going to go through those layers again without a bent needle or worse. I was going to abandon it all together, but I kept going. I planned all along to wear this shirt over a fitted knit shirt. When I was putting on the buttons I realized just one at the top looked better, and kind of made the collar acceptable. (I may just be fooling myself here. ) But I swear I think it really works. I think I should rename this blog, The Misadventures in Sewing. Now I am going to make a BBW shirt to just get over this experience.

Following the rules.

2008-07-14T09:07:00.000-07:00

I made this top (McCall's 4756) over the weekend. I added a collar, and I really like how it turned out. This polka dot cotton fabric is so soft I couldn't wait to use it. Believe it or not, I also made a pair of denim white shorts to go with the top while Saga was playing in the room with me. As I finished the last seam I was just amazed at how long she entertained herself on her own. She was wrapping her baby doll up in scrap fabric and elastic, and this lasted for 1/2 hour. It may never happen again, but it was wonderful. As the photos above prove I followed all my self imposed rules. I used pins, used tools, and followed along with the pattern. Maybe I am turning over a new leaf...

Weekend Fun

2008-07-12T23:48:00.000-07:00

I took this photo of Saga a couple of days ago. She added some decoration to the bedroom wall. Her expression says it all. The funny thing is she tried to hide the crayons from me. She really is growing up fast. I made this dress for her right before summer started. Just look at the colors I was dreaming of summer time.

On Saturday I went to the Renegade Craft Fair in San Francisco. It was great to see in person what people are making. The fair was held in a beautiful area of SF. It was nice to walk around and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. It was very overcast, that is why I don't have any decent photos to share. The cool weather was welcomed after the heat wave we had this week.
Hope you are all enjoying your weekend.

The romper that became a jumper.

2008-07-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Well here it is. I couldn't get a shot of Saga wearing it because I will not fit her until she is 5, or grows 5 inches in all directions. I haven't added the buttons because I am waiting on a package of vintage buttons I bought on Etsy. So what went wrong?
It all started when I decided not to cut out the pattern notches when I was cutting out the fabric. So when I began to sew I had no idea where to start/stop the rise. Instead of having Saga try it on or break out the pattern, I guessed. Obviously, I guessed wrong and decided to go with the jumper style. ( I had to go a buy more fabric too!) No need for an intervention, I promise myself to never do this again! For now on when I sew I will follow the cardinal rules of sewing:
1) use the pattern guides
2) mark the fabric when needed
3) peruse the pattern instructions
4) use pins
5) fix mistakes immediately and not just think it will still work out
6) use measurements
Okay, I think that is all I can handle right now and stick to my word.

I want to thank the ladies who always encourage me. You have made sewing not such a solitary activity.

Little House...

2008-07-09T19:49:00.000-07:00

My brother and I in 1973.

It started way back when my mom would make me clothes that looked like this yellow dress. Almost everything she made me had a pinafore and a bonnet. During this summer I have rediscovered my love for Little House on the Prairie. I have decided that I want the entire wardrobe of the Caroline Ingalls. Yes, I will have to shorten the skirts, and have some short sleeved shirts, but I love how simple her dress is. So, when I see the shirts I make with my favorite calico fabrics I am not going to worry is it too Little House. I am just going to admit completely inspired by Caroline Ingalls.

Update: The romper I made is no longer a romper. I had to make adjustments due to my refusal to follow a pattern. I will post it on Friday.

New dress. Okay, maybe nightgown.

2008-07-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

I so anxious to use some of this trim that I made up this little dress last night. When it was finished I immediately thought it looks like a nightgown. I am always overly critical of what I make so I just put the thought aside. This morning before going out when my husband saw Saga in her new dress and shoes he asked me why is she still wearing her nightgown. I said it is a dress and went on to story time. But tell me, is this a dress or a nightgown?

Oh well, at least Saga is starting to pose in pictures for me. This is a big improvement over me chasing her with the camera and only getting shots from the back. I am working on a romper right now, but if you want to see the cutest one ever check out what Frida's mom made her.

Day out in SF

2008-07-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco. They have a butterfly exhibit that I wanted Saga to see. It was wonderful, although she was nervous when butterflies would land on her. Yesterday I bought some new patterns that I want to try. I feel I need to push myself to move away from all my tried and true patterns. But I want to keep it simple because I want sewing to always be enjoyable and not a time of hand wringing or cursing. I am proud to say both Saga and I are wearing tops that I made. That is such a good feeling.

Fall sewing begins.

2008-07-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend Saga was given a couple of sundresses. I realized she now has plenty of summer clothes, so I need to start making things to fall. I love this simple dress (Butterrick 3477) because I can add a top underneath to match the weather. I left the hem unfinished until the fall. Today at Joann's all notions are 50% off. I have several tools I want to get and have been waiting for this sale. I have my list ready.

New Top with Touch from the Past

2008-07-01T08:46:00.000-07:00

This has to be the quickest and easiest shirt to make, ever. I love the fit, and how they just say summer. I used some chambray that is very soft and a great hue of blue. The best part is the trim on the sleeves. My mom gave this to me over the weekend. When I was growing up my mom kept all of her trims and ribbons in a drawer. I would go through the drawer and make requests, a dress with this ribbon , or a shirt with this ribbon. Luckily my mom saved all of them. While sewing on the trim last night I could remember looking at it long ago. Thank you, mom.

2008-06-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

I made this shirt using McCalls 3610. I changed the sleeves and the collar. The fabric was really inexpensive, so I experimented. Next time I will make it a little smaller overall. Yesterday I was at my mother's house we were looking through some of her trims and bias tapes. She had a whole collection from the 70's. There was so much orange and brown! I now have some, and can't wait to use it.

Morning at the Farmer's Market

2008-06-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday morning we go to the Farmer's Market. It used to be a relaxing trip where I strolled along with Saga. Now she does not want to stroll, she wants to explore. This means she explores, and I chase after her. She only stops to listen to the bluegrass band. She loves music, and I swear she is a better dancer than I am. While she bops along to the music we eat freshly made tamales. Hope you all had a relaxing weekend.

Memories of Lavender

2008-06-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

I used to live in Paris a lifetime ago. I enjoyed Paris, but I loved the French countryside. I would travel through the countryside during the harvest seasons amazed by the simple beauty of nature. Nothing would compete with the harvesting of lavender. Year after year I would go to the fields right before they were to be harvested, and I would be speechless. I have several postcards that I love looking at to remind me of the past. I think it would be fun to use them as inspiration for the clothing I make for Saga. When she wears this dress I will visit those fields again through memories.

Day Nine

2008-06-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a new dress for Saga. I love the fabric. (I bought it on clearance, only $2.00 a yard.) This is how the blue dress should have looked if I had enough fabric. I much prefer the updated version. I am going to participate in the mini wardrobe challenge over at Creative Reveries. I better start finding some patterns. I only want to use fabric from my stash, so this really is going to be a challenge.

Day Eight

2008-06-24T12:29:00.001-07:00

I took a dress of mine and some polka dots and turned them into a kimono top for Saga. You can find the pattern here. It was very easy, and enjoyable to make. I love the bold and colorful fabrics that Amy uses. I remembered this dress and thought I would be perfect for this project.

Thank you Amy for sharing.

Day Seven

2008-06-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

Here is Saga wearing her new smock made from the pattern in Bend-the-Rules Sewing. She just woke up from a nap, and went looking for her water and came back with these lemons. I am working on the Simple Kimono from Habitual. I should have it ready for tomorrow.

Day Six

2008-06-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

I have fabric envy. I constantly see the beautiful fabrics everyone uses and I know I just can't swing that right now. I support a family of three on a teacher's salary, you get the picture. But I am lucky enough to visit Joann's regularly with my 40% off coupon in hand, and I do so happily. I teach and live in the same neighborhood. When I visit our local Joann's several of the employees there have children at my school. These fine ladies have befriended me, and give me little perks. They hold aside remnants that they think I would like, they will offer to check back stock on patterns for me, and most importantly they do their best to entertain Saga in her least favorite store. (childhood karma coming back to get me) I always leave happy to have seen these women and to have another connection to our community. Connecting with your community in the Silicon Valley is not easy. In the end, I wish I was waiting for a huge order from Super Buzzy or Sew Mama Sew, but then I would miss my time spent with the ladies at Joann's.

Oh, and did I mention teachers get a 15% discount on everything.

Day Five

2008-06-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

Starting in the fall I will be facilitating teacher trainings. I was thinking that I need some nice blouses to wear for these trainings. They have to be lightwight because I am going to be so nervous speaking in front of a large group. They also need to look like I put some effort into what I am wearing, know what I mean. So, I tried this pattern Simplicity 4112 BBW. I am happy with how it turned out, but I did change the sleeves. At first I sewed a gathered sleeve then changed my mind after I tried it on. They just seemed too puffy for me. I then just did a standard set in sleeve, and I feel more comfortable with that style. Feeling comfortable and confident in this shirt is what I am going for.

Day Four

2008-06-20T16:23:00.001-07:00

I have to admit when it comes to sewing I am stubborn and a poor planner. This dress is meant to have a full gathered skirt. I did not have enough fabric, so I just made it a straight skirt. To tell you the truth I am not very fond of how it turned out, but I have created a purpose for this little aqua dress. It is perfect to pull over Saga's swimsuit after a swim. I swear I am going to start measuring the fabric first before I start cutting.

Day Three

2008-06-18T22:31:00.000-07:00

I finished this pair of denim shorts for Saga. Making sure the rickrack was straight takes forever, there must be a better way than what I am doing. I am planning to make one more maybe with red rickrack. She figured out she could take off her own clothes today, and I know lots of fun is going to follow this discovery. Tomorrow I will go to San Francisco for the day. It will be one of the summer's Spare the Air days. All public transportation is free. Now if this could coincide with the SF Zoo free entrance day I would be set.

Day Two

2008-06-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help myself . I made another BBW 3835 top. I It is made from chambray and two fat quarters. I just loved the way the two fabrics went together. I have experimented with different sleeve variations. (Here is the view of the back.)This top has short sleeves with ties. I have also made it with elbow length sleeves with ties. Every time I make one I think I don't like to do casing, but I love how forgiving casing is. I have at least one more of these tops in me. I made a blue gingham one and love it. I found some red gingham that would also work well.

I need to give another pattern a try.....

Day One

2008-06-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Last night I finished the shorts to go along with this little top. I used my own pattern. I made the top too big, but I just want to get some miles out of this fabric. I bought the fabric at the Alameda Flea Market. It was only $4.00 for the 2 yard piece. The vendor just opened a vintage fabric shop in San Francisco. (I am hoping to visit later this week.) I lined the top using one of my old button down shirts. I have enough of the gingham left to make a slightly larger pair of shorts later.

Off to a new routine

2008-06-05T21:49:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the completion of another year teaching first grade I will sew my way through the summer. I plan to work on a piece of clothing each day. I will fight the urge to just use the same tried and true patterns. I already have a collection the ubiquitous BBW shirts. I want Saga to have clothes I have made for her. As a child almost all of my clothes were made by my mother, those clothes and memories of them are now almost entirely lost. This summer I will document what I make for Saga, a bon souvenir.