craftyNHmom

Sewing For Boys Sew Along

2012-01-24T09:24:00.000-08:00

I was hoping to have time to join the Sewing For Boys Sew Along, apparently I had forgotten just how fast you can make the Raw Edge Raglan!

I was able to whip this one up while Travis was busy watching a few episodes of Avatar: the Last Airbender with Maura, James and Liam.

I embellished this one with faux layered sleeves (is that what you call it when it looks like two layers of shirts?), then I used this rocket ship applique made from scraps of knit fabrics. You can find a free template for the rocket ship here, thanks to Ashley of Lil Blue Boo.

I used Heat N Bond Lite for the appliques. I just drew the shapes on the paper side, ironed it to the t-shirt scraps. Then cut on the lines, assembled the design on the front of the shirt, then ironed. Last I used a basic straight machine stitch around all the edges. This is my favorite method of doing appliques. They seem to launder very well, which is important!

This is a really versatile pattern with endless possibilities.

I love the casual raw edge finish too.

This shirt pattern is found in the book Sewing For Boys, along with a ton of other great patterns and ideas.

Here are a few of my earlier versions of this pattern:

original post for these shirts here

and

my St. Patty's Day version is Here

Today was a two-hour delay for schools because of icy roads and I was woken up by Travis waving the rocket ship shirt in my face telling me to put it on him. I guess it's a winner!

Check out the Flickr Group for the Sew Along!

Valentine's Day Outfit

2012-01-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

Three posts in one week! I'm on a roll.

OK, I confess, I went ahead and ordered some really great knit fabric from this Ebay store. I can never find any good knits at my local JoAnn's and though you can find great stripe/printed knits online, the price and shipping make me feel quite guilty. So I looked for a store where I could buy multiple yards and combine shipping. It worked out great, and I will buy again from them in the future using the same strategy to combine the shipping. That was how I got the fabric for Travis' Stripey PJ's.

Here's an outfit I made for a friend who recently adopted a daughter.

The patterns are both from Too Sweets Patterns. This is the Chic Chic Dress. The colors made me think of Valentine's Day so I added the "chocolate" heart applique. Super easy. I know this will be a go-to pattern for little girl gifts!

Here is the cardigan. Pattern found here. I really love it!

I added a hidden heart on the lining where a tag would go.

I'm still not done sewing up baby gifts.

My husband's best friend and his wife are expecting their first baby next month.

I'm in the planning stages for that one.

I also just heard about the Sewing For Boys Sew Along and I'd like to get in on that if time allows.

Have a great weekend!

Mr. Stripey Pajamas

2012-01-18T08:32:00.000-08:00

When Travis was a little baby I dressed him in stripes so often he gained the nickname "Mr. Stripey".

The very last time I sewed anything for him to wear was back in October when I was told by him he didn't want me to make him any "shirts" anymore. Since then his attitude in general has improved and we noted just the other day, not wanting to jinx the situation, that he's been much more agreeable for the last month or so. Let's hope it keeps up!

So I made him these striped pajamas. He likes them so much he doesn't want to take them off! That's a good sign.

This pattern can be found in Stitch Magazine, which I bought as a back issue.

I downloaded the additional add-on of larger sizes (up to 5T) from Fishsticks Designs Blog. It was a very quick and easy pattern to work with, I highly recommend it!

Snuggling with his brother early in the morning before school.

sewing for baby - Lucy reversible dress

2012-01-16T13:08:00.000-08:00

For what ever reason, since New Year's Day I've been sewing like mad. I have had this urge to get to some of the projects I had in mind since Christmas-gifting mode kicked in. So I have crossed a few things off my list, and the list keeps growing. I also got a few new sewing books for Christmas, which helps with that!

My first project to show you is this Lucy Reversible Dress I made for the same baby who I previously made these gowns for. The parents loved the handmade clothes so I decided to make something larger which she could grow into this spring. I love that it's reversible, making it two dresses in one.

These fabrics were both found at JoAnn Fabrics. I was looking for something unique and stylish, and I love the deep purple color. Not your typical pink dress.

I hope they love it!

Maura's Morty Scarf

2011-12-21T20:24:00.000-08:00

Yep, you guessed it, another Pokemon project.

Well another one of Maura's birthdays snuck up on us. She's 15!! She's been asking for a Morty scarf for a month or two and I decided to surprise her with it for her birthday, just like Last year's Totoro shoes.

Here was the photo I had to work from when making the scarf:

Morty

Her grama gave her that super cool Mew Two sweatshirt. It was from Random Choices shop on Etsy. This hoodie is really good quality and was a steal for the price. Maura's happy, we're happy.

We had dinner out at the Rainforest Cafe.

...& then we topped off the weekend with a Jigglypuff cake!

Happy birthday Maura, I hope you never change!!

bird ornaments

2011-12-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, everyone! I've just finished my Christmas shopping, and starting to think of making a few little handmade goodies to give as gifts.

These bird ornaments are fun and fast and would make a good hostess or teacher gift.

The larger birds are from a pattern found for free here on Daily Dish, the same pattern found in Sewn Spaces by Joel Dewberry. It is a pincushion, sachet or ornament. I have so many scraps around here, I could make these all week.

The smaller felt birds are similar to the ones found in Fa La La Felt.

-----

We still don't have our tree up, but hope to get it tonight. We went to Disney World the week of Thanksgiving and since then I've hardly even seen my husband. He's been working like crazy and been on an extended business trip. I'm really looking forward to the holidays when everyone will be home for the week!

a photo by Liam of us on the DW monorail

It must be easy if I can do it!

2011-11-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad blogger lately. I'm still sewing, but seem to have lost my mojo for taking pictures. Hopefully I can start to catch up. It also doesn't help that every blogging app for my iPad crashes and burns. Has anyone found a good blogging app for iPad? Does such a thing exist yet?

So I've been in the mood to knit or crochet. I'm an extreme beginner and have only made scarves and one headband. When I purchased a few easy patterns on etsy which claimed to be for beginners, I was frustrated that they seemed difficult to understand. I even turned to my handy Knitting/Crocheting references, but no, still too confusing. For instance, when crocheting a hat, at the beginning you are instructed to make a chain of only two stitches and then make multiple stitches into each of these two original stitches. When I tried that it turned into a huge ugly knot! So I turned to Ravelry. I found this great pattern , which is actually suited for a beginner. It turned out to be right at my level. It was my first time using stitch markers and my first time seaming pieces together. My daughter, Maura loves them!

And since I am so far behind in posting projects,

it's probably now or never to show you our Halloween photos:

Ms. Maura as Jesse from Team Rocket.

I made her top using Jalie Pattern 2453, I just changed the shape and shortened it. I also cut the sleeves a bit larger to get a puffed sleeve look. I made her Pokeball candy bag so people would have a hint that she's a character from Pokemon. (I love it that she is almost 15 and is still into Pokemon, she's hanging onto that childhood!)

And I am sure these guys need no introduction:

James and Travis as the Mario Brothers

The only thing I made here was the Power Up treat bag, which was fine since sewing Halloween costumes isn't my favorite kind of project.

and last but not least, Liam the old-time gangster:

We are off to Disney soon, but I hope to get some projects done before then. I'm very slowly drafting an Octoberfest dress for myself (I know it's November). I had visions of wearing it in the beer garden at Epcot Germany.
Maybe it will be done before next October?

KCWC days 1,2 & 3

2011-10-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

It's time again for the Kids Clothes Week Challenge.

Since Travis has asked me not to sew for him I wasn't sure if I would participate. Luckily, I have a need for baby gifts! The shower is this weekend.

These gowns are made from Fishsticks Designs little one layette pattern which I downloaded from Bonnie's Etsy shop where she now sells PDF's! During the spring version of the KCWC I made these underwear from another of her patterns. I highly recommend them!

I also picked up this adorable layette pattern also designed by Bonnie of Fishsticks Designs which is only $5.00 and 100% of the proceeds benefit Orphan Relief organizations worldwide. (The hats pictured are made from that pattern.)

The cat graphic is a freezer paper stencil design. My attempt at making these gowns look like a set.

I loved making baby gifts, and found it hard to stop. I also whipped up these! Pattern found here and here from Herbst Patterns. Very easy and fun!

I can't wait to see what other people are working on this week! Check out the KCWC flickr group!

Prepare for trouble...

2011-10-06T20:28:00.001-07:00

The Team Rocket Motto:

Prepare for trouble...
...And make it double

To protect the world from devistation...
...to unite all peoples within our nation.

To Denonunce the evils of truth and love...
...To extend our reach to the stars above.
Jessie...
...James
Team Rocket blast off at the speed of light...
...surrender now or prepare to fight.

MEEEEEEEEEEOWTH THATS RIGHT!

I think he may really be working for Team Rocket, or at least he wants to.
All of my kids love Pokemon, so no surprise he does too. I decided he needed a villain sweatshirt, and as villains go, Team Rocket is pretty funny and harmless.

So this sweatshirt was made using the All The Rage Raglans pattern. I guess it wasn't stretchy enough fabric (sweatshirt fleece from JoAnn), so it was too tight to fit comfortably over his head. I got creative with the zipper, and I love the look, but guess what, it's still too tight! He put it on for the pictures, but this one isn't going to fit. Too bad!

I mean, check out this awesome pokeball on the back. His 14 year old sister is so jealous, she wants one too. She is going as Jessie for Halloween (I guess I should get started).

Like I said in my earlier post, Travis is getting tough to sew for. Being very fiery and seriously strong-willed, he's been rejecting the clothes I make recently. I know he's trying to get me going, so I'm staying cool. I can focus on other projects for awhile. Besides, getting photos of him in the clothes is exhausting!!

So, next on the list:
Baby shower gifts, Jessie costume for Maura, and skirt for me! That's the short list.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'll leave you with a photo of all 4 kids I took a few days ago, it's rare to get a decent group photo of them all, so I'll take it!

PBF cozy fall outfit

2011-10-06T10:05:00.001-07:00

I've been doing plenty of sewing. I haven't felt much like taking photos! It's been a very rainy autumn in New Hampshire. Not very good for photography, just check out these gloomy photos.

Travis' cozy fall outfit
Details: shirt is Pattern's By Figgy's Tee For Two. Kickin' Back Sweatpants made with a pattern from their new book, Sewing For Boys
Fabric is cut from an Old Navy maxi dress that I snagged on clearance.

He actually told me he didn't want me to make him "shirts" anymore. The little stinker. Too bad I've invested so much in patterns and fabric for him! I'm thinking I will take a break from sewing for him for awhile, though, and sew for those who appreciate it more ( ie. Myself! ...and Maura, James and Liam who have been asking for specific items from me lately).

But first I will post pictures of his completely awesome but ill-fitting Team Rocket sweatshirt, that's next!

Amy Butler Sew Along - the Cabo Halter

2011-09-10T19:13:00.001-07:00

Sara at Sew Sweetness is hosting an Amy Butler Pattern sew along. I had so much fun sewing a Jamie Dress with her that I really wanted to fit this in. The deadline is Sept. 14, so I just made it!

I spent the afternoon at the county fair wearing it, so it may be a little wrinkled!

The only Amy Butler pattern I had on hand was the Cabo Halter, and it's been sitting here for several years, so I finally took a stab at it.

The only thing that bugs me is that my invisible zippers are never invisible. I must be doing something wrong!

The fabric is just your standard calico from JoAnn. I think over the years they have gotten much more modern. I just wish they offered better jersey or knit fabrics.

Overall this was a very easy, quick project. It was easier than other halter tops I've made in the past. Too bad summer's is coming to an end!
Autumn in New England is something to look forward to though. Everyone is getting used to their school routines, and thoroughly enjoying their weekend.

Next up: fall Hoodie for Maura ( yes she still lets me sew her clothes even though she's in high school!)

Little Military Shirt

2011-09-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Here is a project I've had on my list for awhile.

I used the Heidi and Finn Little Military Shirt pattern.

This shirt is made of olive green ripstop with silver metal buttons. I love the tabs and buttons on the sleeves, and the "service bars" just make the look.

This pattern was similar to the Bowling Shirt I made for Travis in the spring. One word of caution on the sizing, both this shirt as well as the Heidi and Finn Urban Hoodie are both "slim fit", ie. run small. I've learned to make a larger size in these patterns so they can fit longer.

Have a safe and fun Labor Day weekend!

another summer project finished

2011-08-17T06:32:00.001-07:00

I'm still slowly checking projects off my summer to-do list. This is a gift for my friend, Sharon. She gave me one of her old, sentimental T shirts to remake into something else.

So I immediately thought of the Little Blue Boo pieced tunic pattern

This pattern was very basic and breeze to work with. I had a little trouble finding stretchy enough fabric for the bust area. I wound up cutting up one of my dresses!
It was worth it.. I love this top!

Off to finish up some more projects!
---------
Next up: summer pj's for Maura and me (done)
Working on: Little military shirt for Travis

New toy, and a case for it!

2011-08-01T08:44:00.001-07:00

My laptop crashed and died a few days ago. I can't believe it only lasted two and a half years!
Anyway it worked out pretty good for me because my wonderful husband just nonchalantly said, "Go out and get any computer you want". The computer I wanted was the iPad 2. It was about the same cost as my last laptop, but much more fun!

I immediately knew I needed a cushy protector for it for when I take it out with me. Here's the quick quilted case I came up with this morning.

I measured my iPad and made a very basic lined quilted pouch with a Velcro flap.
This my favorite fabric right now, Alexander Henry, In The Kitchen. I got it from Hawthorne Threads.

A fun, easy case for my iPad.

I was in such a hurry I didn't think to write a tutorial. If I make another I'll be sure to take step by step photos. Maybe i'll even post more often now that I have a computer that plays nice with Blogger.

Also, if anyone has any iPad app suggestions, I'm all ears!

Summer Reading Program - handmade prizes

2011-07-29T15:49:00.000-07:00

Each summer our library has such a fun Summer Reading Program for our kids. They plan tons of free events for families and kids like field trips, concerts, and craft activities. The kids set a reading goal and try to reach it by the end of the program. At the end there is a huge picnic where each family brings a dish to share and the kids all get a prize. I try to donate some prizes each year because I know it must be costly for our little town library to have a prize for every child who participates.

I realized a few days ago the deadline is the first week of August!

Here are a few of my handmade prizes this year:

pattern is Little Lizard King Crayon Roll

Monster softie - my own design

Pattern Gingercake's On The Go Organizer

and my favorite this year:

Owly McPillowpants!

made from a pattern from the book Small Stash Sewing. This guy is totally worth buying the book. He is HUGE which you can't tell by looking at the picture. He's about the size of a standard size bed pillow.

He's going to make a great reading buddy!

-----------------

Trying to finish your summer sewing to-do list?

Link up here with me!

Sew Serendipity Skirt

2011-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

It's another skirt from the book Sew Serendipity.

I started to panic about the backlog of projects I had, so I made a list of all the projects I have in mind, and then chose to focus on those that I wanted for summer. This was the first on my list.

This is the second skirt I've made from the book. The other one is here.

I love red (it gives me an excuse to wear red lipstick). This fabric is from Tina Givens which I found on Ebay.

1 down, 6-7 summer projects to go!

----------------------

1. summer PJ's for Maura

2. summer PJ's for Me (almost done)

3.little military shirt for Travis

4.Sunny Day Dress for me

5. LBB Pieced Tunic for my friend, Sharon (in progress)

6. 1 or 2 kid's raffle items for the Summer Reading Program, due in August

-------------------

Join the mad dash to finish up your summer sewing. Link up here:

perfect beach outfit for Travis

2011-07-22T07:14:00.000-07:00

I made a few things for Travis last week with my free patterns, and I'm totally in love with this outfit.

It is the Charlie Tunic from Made By Rae and Boys Cargo Shorts pattern from Little Lizard King.

The shirt is made in a super light "linen-look" from JoAnn fabrics with seersucker at the placket. This is great for keeping Travis covered at the beach, his skin is so fair! The fabric is really thin and cool.

The cargo shorts are made from striped seersucker, a classic for stylish little fellas.

Both patterns were a breeze to whip up, the perfect relaxing summer night project.

Blows my mind!

2011-07-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

I know this post is very late, but I wanted to have a chance to thank Adrianna and Susan of Crafterhours for hosting Skirt Week again this year. There's not much I love more than sewing along with people from all around the world. It was a fun challenge. My goal was to submit 6 skirts, but I only got to 2!

Each day I checked out the sweet tutorials on skirt making on crafterhours. I also checked the Flickr pools for A Line Skirts , full skirts, and straight skirts. There is so much inspiration there I could spend all day looking at them! There was also a category for little girl skirts.

So I was in total shock when I actually won the Judge's choice for the A Line skirt category. It made my summer! Ever since then, all these great prizes have been rolling in. I still can't get over it!!

I'm already getting to work on some of the patterns I received!

---

So a HUGE thank you to all the sponsors as well of Skirt Week 2011!

Jamie Christina Patterns - The Twill Tape Guy - Birdsongs and Bows -Whimsy Couture - Sew Liberated - Hawthorne Threads Fabric - Fishsticks Design - Little Lizard King Patterns - Made By Rae - Patterns By Figgy's - and Above All Fabric !

Thanks for making sewing even more fun!

The Sunny Day dress from Jamie Christina and Voile from Hawthorne Threads, just one of the many awesome prizes!

Where was I in June? Sprucing up the house!

2011-07-06T15:37:00.000-07:00

I've been busy, busy the last few weeks, but not sewing!!

I have however gotten to some of my projects around the house and yard.

We decided to put our property on the market. A few years ago my husband, Jim, went from working from home to having an hour and a half (one-way) commute. We are however totally aware that this is a bad time to sell, so if we need to stay here that's really fine with us. We really do love it here.

This is from the front. If you didn't guess, our house is very old! We think maybe even pre-Revolutionary war. The floors look like the floors on the USS Constitution!

So I thought I'd show you what I've been doing this month, even if it isn't sewing related!!

In the kitchen, I repainted the cabinets.

Repainted the upstairs and downstairs hallway and sitting room.

Painted the upstairs office, shown here with my resident video gamer.

The upstairs bathroom finally got painted!

my sewing area nice and organized (and neglected!)

repainted the red on the stairs, very careful not to splash the rug!

I even got Maura to clean up her room! Wow!

And cleaned out the barn.

Also did a TON of landscaping/gardening/weeding!

Pool clean and blue, check!

I'm glad I got so much done

All while this guy was plotting against me...

He's trying like crazy to give up his nap! Little bugger!!

So I didn't blog at all for the whole month of June, but I'm still here. I also neglected to post about my completely unbelievable SKIRT WEEK WIN! So that's up next. I want to show what I'm doing and planning to do with some of my free patterns and fabric.

Alice in Wonderland Dress finished!

2011-05-30T11:20:00.000-07:00

Maura graduates from the 8th grade this year, and it's off to high school already. I feel like she was just 3 feet tall dragging her blankie around the house. Parenthood seems to speed up time or something.

I asked her what she wanted to wear for graduation since her usual attire is jeans and a t-shirt. She hasn't worn a dress in so long, well besides her rennaisance costume. I came up with the idea for this dress to entice her. She's always been kind of a tomboy. I remember making her a skirt with dinosaurs appliqued on it when she was in preschool. She's my only girl, so I do what I can to sew for her!

She reads all the time, and one of her absolute favorite authors is Lewis Caroll. She has three different copies of Alice In Wonderland. She collects anything Alice in Wonderland. So this dress is perfect.

This dress is made with the London Peasant Dress pattern and the adorable japanese Wonderland Awaits Fabric, which Maura helped to pick out for her dress. We're both totally in love with this print!

The dress was so easy and fun to sew. I will probably sew this again. It uses only elastic and has no zippers or buttons. For the bell sleeves, I made my own teacup fabric by making small iron ons with my Silhouette Machine. That was after my failed attempt at silkscreening some teacup fabric.

I'm so glad she likes it, and now she has a dress as creative as she is!

Linking up here:

KCWC - Day 5 - Skivs

2011-05-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Here is what else I made for Kids Clothes Week Challenge...

Skivvys. Or, as my dad would say, Skivs.

These are mostly made from scraps. I used the undercover boxer pattern from Fish Sticks Designs and also their FREE tank pattern from the Fishsticks Blog.

I made both versions in the pattern. First the "regular" boxers with the fly. He kept putting his hand it and telling me it was a pocket. Next I decided to make the training pants version which makes more sense for him anyway. They're nice and soft!

Pardon the gloomy photos, we haven't seen the sun in New Hampshire in about a week I think!

------------------------------

In other news, I just learned of a new sewing challenge I want to be part of! This is just what I had in mind. I have a bunch of skirt and dress projects ready to go! Check it out!

I also have a dress planned for my daughter's 8th grade graduation and the fabric from Superbuzzy finally arrived today. I hope it gets done in time!

spring KCWC - little Lebowski bowling shirt

2011-05-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a project that's been in my mind for quite awhile, that I made for Travis this week.
It's time again for the Kid's Clothing Week Challenge.

A sweet bowling shirt!

Here's the back:

I had to get a little Big Lebowski reference on this shirt, it goes without saying

...The Dude Abides.

The pattern I used is the Scientific Seamstress Bowling Shirt. It's a great pattern to have, very detailed and specific, with plenty of photos/diagrams. This shirt took probably around 2 1/2 hours total to sew. I'm very impressed with my new machine's ability to make perfect buttonholes. This was the first try!

The graphics on the back were made using my Silhouette Machine. Then I just ironed everything on. I also have a name patch I made for the front that I forgot to attach until now! I don't want to sound like an advertiser for the Silhouette, but I never cease to be amazed at how fun it is. I think the best part is that since I have a $10 monthly subscription to the online store I get to download 25 designs per month and they come out with new designs every single day.

So that's all I've gotten done so far this week for the KCWC sewing about an hour a day. I'm okay with that since that was a bit more complex than my usual kid's clothing projects. For the next project, I'm going super simple with a shirt for my 9 year old boy.

a few spring tops finished

2011-05-09T05:50:00.000-07:00

I didn't know if I'd get the photos in on time, but here are my two entries for this year's Spring Top Sew-Along:

Spring top #1:

My Juliet Tunic in lilac/white shirting.

A little see-through, but I love the style and color. I wore this out on Mother's Day with a cardigan. I like the lilac and brown combo.

Spring top #2

Jalie 2804 in aqua and brown interlock knit

This is so comfortable I want to make 50 of them! I used the assymetrical hemline on this pattern. I love how incredibly easy this is to sew!

So those are my entries this spring. I realize they're not the most exciting tops around, but I looked in my closet and decided what tops I needed to round out my wardrobe. I have some pretty crazy looking skirts and needed some basic tops.

Check out the flickr group to see all this year's entries!

this week's projects

2011-04-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

Last week I was busy whipping up a (another) PBF Tee For Two. Man those are easy and fun to do! This was the first long sleeved version I've done. I got this great soft jersey from Fashion Fabrics Club.

I also made this much-needed Sun Hat for my little red head. I was able to make that from scraps!

Maura made these eggs for Easter, I had to include these guys! Love the zombie egg.

And last but not least, I made this dress for a soon-to-be birthday girl in our family.

This pattern is the Perfect Little Party Dress from Heidi and Finn. They are offering a Buy 2 get 1 free so I took that as an excuse for some girly sewing. I already own all their boy patterns!

I've been shopping for patterns like crazy. I just picked up the Monique Dress and the Juliet Tunic from Pink Chalk Fabrics. I love that they always have free shipping on their paper patterns.

I'm also working on a summer skirt for myself. I hope to have pictures soon!

2nd Jamie dress

2011-04-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

It's amazing to me how you can make two dresses from the same pattern and one is a success and the other not-so-much. The dress went together easily enough. Maybe it was my choice of fabric, but I'm really not liking the second version.

I actually took a few inches out of the skirt/gathering this time around, but it looks even more voluminous than the last jamie dress. After 4 kids I'm a little sensitive about looking bigger around the waist.

This is the best photo I got:

This was the worst:

ICK!! What happened in the back of the dress? Still pondering that. I may have done that when I tried to force the front and back waistbands to match up. Maybe I can still rescue this dress.

In this one I think I'm holding down the poofiness of the skirt subconciously. This dress will have to go back to the drawing board if I want to wear it out in public.

Sew Along Dress - finished!

2011-04-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

I finished my dress for the Jamie Dress Sew Along a few days back and was finally able to get some pictures, thanks to my favorite 9 year old photographer, Liam. A few days ago it was too dark, and today it was really bright, maybe too bright. But, I'm not complaining!

This fabric was something I had lying around since last summer. It's from JoAnn's, it a "linen look" fabric. I actually like the drape, it's very light. I was a little worried about the large print making me look large, but I really like this funky pattern - good for summer!

The pattern, the Sis Boom Jamie Dress was actually very easy and enjoyable to follow. I have used Scientific Seamstress patterns in the past and I'm always floored at how great the instructions and photos are. I also loved how easy the paper pattern was to assemble on this one.

The only thing I changed from the pattern instructions was adding a ruched waistband to the back to match the front. Sara added instructions on her blog on how to do that. My favorite thing I learned from this pattern is how to use a glue stick to apply a zipper - SO awesome, how did I not know about this before??

I'm very happy with the dress and I'm already in progress with version #2, it's actual linen. Stay tuned for that one!

Than you, Sara, for hosting this sew along! Check out her flickr group of all the dresses.

Also linking up here:

Sew along progress and New Machine Love

2011-04-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

I'm almost done with my dress for the Sew Sweetness Jamie Dress Sew Along. I just have the bottom hem left to do! The completed dresses are rolling in each day to the flickr group, but there is still plenty of time to join. The finished dresses aren't due until April 21st. I may make another before then.

I picked some pretty crazy fabric!

I got a little sidetracked. I've been learning how to use my new machine and I think I have her all figured out now! Many, many thanks to my understanding husband who agreed to let me purchase her even though my Singer works fine. I just really wanted a Bernina. I love how smooth it sews!

Here she is...

I know there are much fancier machines, but I think this one is perfect for my use. I was looking at used machines, but found this one brand-spanking-new and on sale at my local sew and vac store. I tried out a few features on the machines and fell madly in love with this one.

Move over Silhouette machine, you have competition.

Urban Hoodie for spring

2011-04-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to making a new Urban Hoodie for Travis to replace this one I made in the fall that is now too small.

I really love stripes, can you tell?

This time I made passable buttonholes (and didn't cheat by using vel-cro). I have now resigned myself to the fact that my "automatic one-step buttonhole" setting on my machine is a joke. It will only work on the lightest of fabrics anything with some weight or layers to it, forget it. I had to make these buttonholes manually. It's frustrating since that was the reason I bought the machine! Now I'm on the lookout for a better quality used machine. I must have an automatic buttonhole setting that works, damn it.

pattern: Heidi and Finn

fabric: outside knit stripe from Annie's Second Hand Chic on Etsy (similar one here)

inside ivory interlock knit from JoAnn

meet my new little friend

2011-04-01T11:19:00.000-07:00

It's a ....

Droid !

It's a Droid X to be precise. My phone contract was up and I was able to upgrade to a much better model. I had planned to get the iPhone, but when I compared them side by side, there was something more exciting about this one, so I went for it. I'm so glad I did! I now have access to every song imaginable while out in the car (or anywhere) at the touch of a button, with my Rhapsody subscription.

This phone is HUGE, however so I had to make a new case. This is just a very simple wool felt case with blanket stitching around the edges. It has an outer and inner layer of felt to keep my new friend safe.

-------

In other news, I've joined the Sew Sweetness Jamie Dress Sew Along! You should too! She is even offering prizes! Go check it out!

While I'm waiting for that to start, I'm finishing up another Urban Hoodie for Travis and just cut out a shirt for myself:

Have a great weekend! I know I'll be busy.

"He's All Boy" Blanket

2011-03-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

Travis has a special affinity for soft fuzzy things. At the sewing store he wants to spend hours in the minky aisle. Whenever he pets soft things, he has to suck his thumb at the same time. It's pretty cute.

When I saw this blanket tutorial on This Mama Makes Stuff during Celebrate The Boy 2011, I knew I found a great idea for Travis' upcoming birthday.

Here's my version:

I used black minky (the swirly type) because, well, that's the only type they had that day, so I decided to make it work. Considering the dragging around it will have to take, black might be a smart choice.

This was a very quick/easy project, it took only a few hours!

********

And because I'm such a sucker, I let him have it early...

leprechaun outfit with reverse applique tutorial

2011-03-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Just had to make our mischevious little resident leprechaun a new outfit for St. Patrick's day.

The shirt is another Tee for Two, a pattern that I've gotten quite a bit of use out of lately! My other versions are here. I love making basic knit t-shirts, so easy and fast! Then I can embellish them too. For this shirt I made shamrock reverse appliques and then used my Silhouette (iron on heat transfer) to make the words. Bonus: these fabrics were both from the old shirt pile.

I added the reverse appliques like this:

trace the design onto the knit (t-shirt) fabric

pin contrasting knit fabric scrap to the underside of your design. Be sure it covers the whole traced design with room to spare.

Sew on your drawn shape on the right side of the shirt.

Now trim about 1/8" on the inside of your stitching. This is the fun part!

A super simple way to embellish a shirt! This also washes very well since t-shirt fabric will roll slightly on the edges in the wash but won't fray.

I've also used reverse applique to highlight a design on the shirt:

And last but not least, I made these pants following Dana's flat front kid pants tutorial .

I added some pockets on the front and back. He actually LIKES these pants.

Instant Leprechaun!

**Update: I'm so excited and honored that Shelly and Karen of Pattern's by Figgy's posted my mini-tutorial on their website, and they added a downloadable shamrock template so you can make your own!

Linking up here:

Happy 5th Birthday Ivy!

2011-03-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

Today we're going to a birthday party! My friend's daughter is turning 5. Here's what I made for a gift:

It's the Warhol Dress. Dana has the free pattern here for sizes 6-12 and 3-4 years. I had to draft this pattern myself using her instructions because I needed a size 6X for the birthday girl. The ruffle was my own add-on, it needed a little 'pop'.

I really like the yoke on this dress which ties on one side.

Materials used: interlock knit from JoAnn's and I used my Silhouette to make the iron-on transfer.

Ivy, the birthday girl, collects bikes so I thought a bike graphic would be cool and original for a dress. Then I made a last minute tote with her name on it and added a few books.

It was fun to do some girly sewing for a change.

Future Pilot Shirt

2011-03-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

Liam wants to be a pilot when he grows up and loves playing Flight Simulator almost every day. I've never seen a kid who loves planes more. He's always asking to go by the airport so he can watch the planes land.

I made him this shirt using the All the Rage Raglans pattern by the Scientific Seamstress. I am so impressed with this t-shirt pattern. It contains so much helpful information for every detail of construction! I even found a new way to attach the neckline so it wouldn't stretch out of shape. It was worth buying the pattern for that tip alone. The neckband has been frustrating to me in the past. It's got a much larger boxier fit than the shirts for travis, but I really love both patterns because they offer very different styles of raglans.

The airplane graphic was actually from this free font which I downloaded and printed out, then traced and cut out of freezer paper. I used silver fabric paint in the freezer paper stencil and white fabric paint for the words. My favorite tutorial for stenciling is here on Made.

And here is one more Christmas gift I forgot to post earlier. This is Koji which I made using a pattern from the book Wee Wonderfuls by Hillary Lang Liam loves him!

Have a great weekend!

Celebrating The Boy - Tees For Two

2011-03-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

I'm finally shaking off the winter blues and getting into some spring sewing. This year Dana and Rae are hosting another Celebrate The Boy series, which happens to be my very favorite blog series of ALL TIME. Just like last year, I can't wait to check my computer each day to see what cool boy ideas they and their guests have. It always gets me motivated to sew more.

I made these two Tee For Two (patterns by figgy's) shirts for Travis for spring!

This one is made from a women's shirt (Walmart clearance) and some green interlock knit.

This Oswald shirt is my favorite! Travis is all about Oswald. We watch that show daily. I just wish they made more than one season!! Henry the penguin is my favorite (his voice is actually Squiggy from Laverne & Shirley!). Travis loves the dog Weenie.

I really enjoyed sewing this pattern. It was so quick to make and fun to design the appliques. This is the before photo:

The appliques were both made with leftover t-shirt scraps. I used Heat N Bond Lite. I just draw my shapes on the paper side, then iron it onto my scraps. Next I cut on the drawn line, fuse to fabric and stitch around the shapes on my project. Very easy!

These t-shirt scrap appliques won't fray, so no worries when stitching them on. Just a plain straight or narrow zig zag stitch is fine.

All we need now is some spring weather. It's about 10 degrees here in New Hampshire as I type this!

some cute new softies

2011-01-26T10:14:00.000-08:00

I never get tired of making little creatures with my leftover fabric! This is the latest crew.

The guy in the middle is going to my very close friend Rachel's little son, Luke, for his birthday. Luke is the same age as my Travis. I wish we lived close enough to hang out. I miss her!! She has the best sense of humor of anyone I've ever met. I know Cuthbert will be happy in her home.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here are some new books I picked up recently.

I'm totally loving the Party Dress. I can look through this book for hours. I'm looking forward to sewing some spring/summer dresses this year and using my new dress form.

Small Stash Sewing is a cute little book too. I'm always a fan of projects that take smaller quantities of fabric that I hang on to. I'll probably make a few of these projects for the kids. The price of this book is right, less than 10 dollars on Amazon.

Well Happy New Year!

2011-01-19T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hi! I guess I've taken a little vacation for myself these last few weeks. I think it had to do with all the sewing leading up to Christmas that it was natural to have a little break. It also could have something to do with the Amazon Kindle I just got. I've been spending so much time reading by the fire and being lazy.

I did get to a few minor projects, a Kindle Cover similar to Maura's for myself, and a few new pillows to spruce up the living room. I'd like to post photos, but I'm presently having technical issues with my memory card from my camera. Suddenly it doesn't FIT into my computer's card reader! So either the card GREW or the T-Bomb (2 year old Travis) has stuffed something in the card reader! I hope to have something new to show you soon!

a couple of (11th hour) handmade gifts finished!

2010-12-21T07:41:00.000-08:00

These were a few of the gifts I'd planned for the handmade holiday challenge, and I'm happy to report that they're done with 4 days till Christmas! Nothing like a little pressure to get me moving!

For Travis:

A gigantic fleece blanket shaped like Nemo. This is from Simplicity pattern 3955, and it's HUGE, like 6 feet long.. Look at how it dwarfs my couch in this photo:

And for Maura who is 14, (I hope she doesn't read my blog):

A cool cover/holder for her Amazon Kindle which she will (hopes to) get from her grandparents this year.

Here is a shot of the inside. It has pockets and also a reading light holder. I wrote her name and phone number already...my kids might be a bit forgetful.

This was a great pattern to follow, very sturdy and well-thought out. I got the pattern here on Etsy. The fabric is Michael Miller Script which I love, and plan on using on more projects.

Next I'm hoping to make some peppermint bark to hand out to the teachers next and get to wrapping.

Have a wonderful holiday everyone!!!!

My Neighbor Totoro + Vans = the perfect gift for Maura!

2010-12-18T06:21:00.000-08:00

So yesterday was Maura's 14th birthday. Though we already took her to King Richard's Faire and I made her this dress and gave her spending money for her birthday, that was a few months ago and I wanted to give her something inexpensive to open on her birthday.

I found these plain gray Vans on sale for 15.00! She's wanted some embellished sneakers for awhile and was upset that the Yo Gabba Gabba Vans didn't come in adult size. So I let her choose what she wanted on them and she of course picked My Neighbor Totoro!!

Love these guys, you wish they lived in your woods:

The cat bus, I had no yellow/brown paint so I left him monotone:

I love the soot sprites on the toes:

Materials used: Sharpie fine point marker and Tulip Soft fabric paint.

Back to working on Travis' gift now:

Have a great weekend!

our first craft fair

2010-12-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

Maura and I participated in our first craft fair on Saturday.

I wish I could say it was a huge success, but it was a learning experience for us. There weren't many shoppers there unfortunately. The few people who came through probably thought my table was "weird". One little girl expressed interest in one of my hats, to which her mom said "you'd look like a freak of nature in that!" Nice.

So I learned that a church basement might not be the best venue for my items.
Maura did very well with her dragons however, she sold 4!

On a positive note, we did make a new friend! It turns out my table was right next to another Etsy seller, Andrea, of FabFindings. We hit it off and it was great to have someone to talk to. I bought some of her handmade cards and a hair pin. Maura just about cleaned out her stash of magnets, she has some really cute gifts for her friends to decorate their lockers now.

I also got a taste for how to display my items on a table, which is a good start. I used my Silhouette Machine to make labels and signs.

So it was a fun day even though sales were so slow. Maura and I had a chance to hang out withOUT the T-Bomb (2 year old Travis). And lucky for her, at the end of the day she walked away with a new messenger bag, ipod case, kitty hat, and a stuffed owl. Her birthday is on Friday the 17th, and I know they're going to someone who appreciates them...I don't care if she looks like a 'freak of nature'. She's a great kid!!

Now I'm going to get serious about finishing some Christmas gifts! See you soon!

Look out ladies! Little (reversible) menswear

2010-11-18T05:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, I realize I'm late in finishing and posting this week's gift for the handmade holiday challenge. But look what I was doing!

Making a reversible outfit!

I was asked to be a pattern tester for Little Lizard King Patterns newest reversible vest pattern. This was such an easy, fun pattern to sew. Perfect for dressing up over the holidays. I knew I wanted to try it with menswear fabrics.

The pants I made to match are also reversible. One side is flannel suiting, the other is brown plaid. All fabrics are from JoAnn's. I made the pants reversible by making 2 pairs of pants, and sewing them wrong sides together, folding under the edges to meet. Then I inserted elastic for the waistband. The patch pockets are made using this tutorial found on MADE.

This will be so cute for Thanksgiving. I'm not sure which side I like best. All he needs now is a scali cap to complete this outfit I think.

I just found this pattern Etsy that would look so cute with this. I can't believe it's reversible too! I like that it comes in a wide range of sizes. I think I have to get that one.

I promised him a lolipop for modeling!

UPDATE: This pattern is now available at Little Lizard King's Etsy shop! I'll have to tell Travis that he had a brief modeling career!

DMK Pea Coat for tiny T.

2010-11-11T19:51:00.000-08:00

I had hoped to have this coat done earlier in the fall, but having it done by Thanksgiving is OK. This is made with the DMK Trendy Unisex Pea Coat pattern. Just now looking at the pattern online, I just realized I forgot to attach the wristbands. Will do!

Here is my favorite shot, he can't read so I can get away with this!

The outside is pinwale corduroy, the inside lining is this great Alexander Henry dragon print. I added a little pocket inside for his "guys".

I just love it when I find good sewing patterns for boys!

-----------------------

I need to find something cool to make for his oldest brother. It's more challenging to make something he will wear in a men's size!

linking up here for cool stuff for Guys:

Here she is, gift #1...

2010-11-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Clucky is done. Maura is going to love this gift for Christmas. I've actually had this Melly and Me Pattern since the spring.

Maura loves chickens, and until recently had her own flock which she fed and took care of, until tragedy struck and they were killed by some kind of viscious animal that snuck into the stall one night, only one was left alive. Maura was devastated. She especially misses her favorite, Odin, an all white leghorn who despite a deformed foot hopped around anywhere the other hens would go.

Maura and Odin

I especially loved that this pattern has chicks that fit into the mother's wings (just like my 4 children!). So I made one of them to look like Odin. Maura will be so surprised! Better go hide it now!

Next in line for the Handmade Holiday Challenge: Something for Travis!

If I've been a bit quiet lately...

2010-11-07T17:56:00.000-08:00

...It's because I've been working to refresh my shop a little. It really took a backseat to sewing for my family (and myself) since spring. I decided to make sewing for us a bigger priority, and have been very happy I did!

Here are some new things I've made the last few weeks to add to my shop and sell at my first craft fair in December:

I hope to keep updating the shop right up until Christmas. In between I am making some handmade gifts. I thought I'd be brave and join Emily with her Handmade Holiday Challenge.

Emily is totally amazing. She's also doing crafting with the stars and recently won purse week with this amazing bag design.

Check back tomorrow to see my first finished gift!

more Halloween fun

2010-10-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Maura attended the Teen Halloween Party at our town library. We made these Cauldron Cupcakes from Meg at MegaCrafty. These taste as good as they look!! Mine aren't as neat as hers, but everyone sure did like them.

We also made a Halloween "Tree". I got the idea from martha stewart Living a few years ago. First I spray painted some branches black, put them in a vase, then added some 'ornaments'. This looks great on our kitchen counter!

The bats, cat, and 3-D pumpkins were all cut on my Silhouette machine. The Raven and Owl images I got from the Graphics Fairy, I made two copies of each, then glued them back to back with some cardstock and hanging ribbon in between.

The skeletons are from the dollar store. I went there looking for mini skeletons and there they were! Amazing.

********

And now I'm off to try to get some sewing done before this guy gets up:

We've been BOOED...

2010-10-14T17:51:00.000-07:00

A few nights ago we opened our front door and found this mysterious package. It was full of halloween candy, so the kids were thrilled! We read the note and found out it was our job to keep the "BOO" going by secretly distributing treat bags to two more families. How cool is that?

Here's what we came up with:

We made these homemade goodies to throw in with the store-bought candy. It's Candy Corn Cookie Bark. I got the recipe here. It looks pretty impressive with all those colors, and after a, ahem, taste test I thought it was actually very good!

The papercutting was all done on my Silhouette machine. We also made these little coffins to put candy corn in:

The kids had a rush trying to drop off these treat buckets without being noticed! When they came back to the car their hearts were pounding! Maura got busted, because for some reason her friend was sitting in the car eating applesauce and saw the whole thing!! Liam had a successful mission, his friend was playing on the trampolene and didn't see a thing. That was our excitement for the day!

animal pajamas

2010-10-13T06:10:00.000-07:00

Again with the pajamas, I know! But that's what he needed. I also had this animal fabric laying around since 2005 and needed to do something with it or get rid of it.

The shirt is freezer paper stenciled on a 90 minute shirt both ideas I found from Dana at MADE. I know now I will never ever get tired of making the 90 minute shirt. I can get one done in about 60 minutes now, and the color combos are endless!

I've had a little less time this week, Travis is now in a toddler bed. Some of the time he lays right down and goes to sleep, other times he runs out of bed, and I put him back, and this pattern goes on until he passes out from exhaustion! He's one determined little bugger.

Here he is helping take the crib apart with his toy drill.

----------------

linking up to this today:

Right now I've got a few sewing projects going on. When Travis goes in for his nap I'm not sure what to work on! I'm thinking of making some gifts for the kids to put away for Christmas. I'll have to work on those secretly. For Maura I've been meaning to make Clucky the Chook, so that's in the works. I'm thinking Travis would like some quilted letters, so I started on those too. I'll post the pictures as I complete them. It may be a little while because I just ordered even more new patterns and I'm having idea overload at the moment. See you soon!

Some new hats

2010-10-09T16:37:00.000-07:00

With the cooler weather now here, I whipped up a few hats today!

Maura requested a (what else?) Totoro hat...shocking I know! When looking for ideas, I found this great example that inspired me on Craftster. She thinks it's the best hat she's ever had!

Liam's skate hat I made from a thrifted sweatshirt. I used the graphic on the shirt as a patch on the front and back. I found good directions on making this recycled hat on the Creative Maven blog, instructions here.

Linking here:

fishy pajamas and a peasant boy!

2010-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Here are the latest projects:

Travis' pajamas made from scraps of his rollie pollie. This pattern is New Look 6932. I added this fishy with some orange t-shirt scaps I had.

We went to the faire this past weekend, so I whipped up this muffin hat for Liam. He wanted to be a peasant:

I found a good video tutorial here, how to make a lined muffin hat. I have to say this one was way better quality than the ones they were selling there. So make a muffin hat, don't buy one!

More photos of the faire:

Maura's outfit, the cloak came in handy, it was cold!!

the Big Cat Show

ye olde sandbox?

of course the Tiny Terror would have NOTHING TO DO with the knight's tabbard I made for him. Little stinker, I should have known!

________________

I'm thinking of making Tiny T. a fall/winter coat. I will have to install a padlock on the zipper somehow since he is adamant not to wear any kind of coat or sweatshirt. I got this adorable DMK Warm Hoodie pattern, and also this one, DMK Trendy Pea Coat. I can't wait to try out one of those.

Can't believe I'm a FINALIST!!

2010-10-04T18:33:00.000-07:00

I sat down with my coffee this morning to read the blogs I subscribe to with google reader, and I almost fell out of my seat when I saw that I am now a finalist on Honeybear Lane's APPLIQUE AWAY contest
!!!!!!!!!
my entry is this applique Coffee or Tea? Apron:

If you have a chance, take a look at the finalists and and cast your VOTE HERE!

a HUGE thank you to Honeybear Lane and Skye Reeve Fabrics for hosting this contest/giveaway!

linking up to this blog party:

getting ready for the Faire!

2010-10-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

**scroll down for the Knignt's Tabbard how-to**

As I mentioned before, we go to King Richard's Faire every fall to celebrate our daughter, Maura's birthday. Her birthday is actually right before Christmas, but she chooses to celebrate it at the Faire since she loves it so much. I can't blame her, I love it too!! It's one of the things I associate most with fall. Love the smells of the insense and food cooking, the loud games, the glassblowing and blacksmith demonstrations, and most of all the COSTUMES. Maura's costume was finished last week.

This year I'm going all out for family costumes. This is the shirt (pattern simplicity 3519) I made for my husband:

Here is a detail of the sleeve, the buttonhole caused me some trouble since my automatic buttonhole wouldn't work for some reason! So I did it manually, and it turned out OK in the end.

Once that was finished, I started to think about little Travis, how cute he would be dressed up too! So I decided to make this knight's "Tabard" to fit him out of an old maternity skirt.

To make this I laid the fabric out folded in half, cut a half circle to fit over his head, just as shown in the photo. Next I pinned double-fold bias tape over all the raw edges. Just sandwiched the edge between the fold that was already there, and stitched with a zig zag all around.

For the dragon applique, I used a tracer I had on hand from Maura's past obsession with dragons, and traced my dragon onto the wrong side of Heat N Bond Lite. Then I fused it (very quickly or the fleece will melt) onto the golden-colored fleece. Then I flipped to the paper side and cut out the dragon. Next I peeled off the paper, and ironed the applique to the tabard. I did it on the reversed side of the tabard so I was heating the adhesive from the underside, again fleece can melt a bit. I only wanted it to bond enough so I could easily sew it down. So I did that next...

all done!

I hope he likes it. You never know with 2 year olds!

------------------------------

Now I'm taking advantage of my free time today and going back to my sewing room to make a muffin hat for Liam. I found this helpful video, it's subtitled in english. This lady is so cute.

Applique contest on Honeybear Lane

2010-09-28T14:53:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to spread the word about this contest on Honeybear Lane :

The contest is only open through the end of September, so get your applique projects in now! There looks like she has some amazing prizes.

I just entered a few of my favorite applique projects.

Check out the Honeybear Lane flickr page here.

KCWC - Day 5

2010-09-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

for Day 5 of the Kids Clothes Week Challenge, I created this top for Maura's fall/winter wardrobe. I love how this turned out!

Maura is an quite an exceptional 13 year old author, and spends most of her time writing stories and reading. When I saw this antique typewriter graphic in the Silhouette Store, I had to use this for her shirt! (I am in no way affiliated with Silhouette America, I bought my machine for my birthday this year).
I ironed the silver heat transfer onto a scrap of t-shirt fabric and reverse appliqued it on the shirt.

She has a huge collection of leather and other types of bound journals that she loves.

I used Burda 9861 for this top. I added the ribbing on the sleeves and hem. I've had this pattern for years sitting in my stash. I going through a few months ago and donating the kid-sized patterns for girls because Maura has outgrown all those, and I had a freakout when I realized that, yes!, she could still fit Burda since it goes up to 14 Junior!!! Hooray. It's a bonus that she absolutely loves bell sleeves (and so do I). I will be saving this to make for her in a few colors.

"Portrait of the Author as a Young Girl"

-----------------

I've had a great time this week doing the Kid's Clothes Challenge!! I've gotten more sewing done than I thought I could in a week. Huge thanks to Elsie Marley for hosting this sew-along!

Check out the awesome Flickr Pool of all the projects!

KCWC - Day 4

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

For day 4, I wanted a fun, easy project. So I stuck with one of my favorite patterns right now, the LBB hoodie. This is my 4th one to date!

This one is made from his older brother's outgrown T-shirt. I wanted to use the basketball graphic, so I used it as a reverse applique. I found a good technique for that here from That Darn Cat.

I used to think that sports-themed boys clothes were cliche. Then I had boys, and I realized that most boys get pretty excited about certain sports!! Travis included. He LOVES basketball and football. I guess there's a reason why so many boys say "ball" as one of their first words.

My favorite part of this hoodie is the basketball on the back! I used my silhouette machine to cut this heat transfer. I finally figured those out after a few failures. Tip for Silhouett heat transfer: Press hard while ironing on, and WALK AWAY while it cools completely...lets just say I found it hard not to peel it off while it's still warm, my bad.

He likes it!

KCWC - Day 3

2010-09-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Day three of the Elsie Marley Kids Clothes Week Challenge was today. I worked on finishing the sleeves and hem of this costume for Maura, which was started last Friday.

This is a costume for both Halloween and King Richard's Faire, which we go to every fall. This is made with simplicity pattern 4940 . She picked out the pattern and all the fabrics for this.

Here is a closer look at the collar. It was tricky for me to sew using these fabrics, I was afraid to iron them because they might melt!! So I folded with my fingers and hoped for the best. I think it turned out pretty well!

Perfect for eating a big greasy turkey leg in.

HUZZAH!!

KCWC - Day 2

2010-09-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

For day 2 of the Kids Clothes Week Challenge at Elsie Marley, I tackled the hoodie that was on my to-do list for Travis.

Travis picked out these buttons himself!

The inside is lined with a very soft aqua/white stripe I got on Ebay. I find it a bit tricky to find good knit fabric locally. The brown interlock is from my local JoAnn Fabrics. The pattern I got here. It is the Unisex Hoodie from Heidi and Finn.

I also finished this pair of underwear for Travis using yesterday's scraps! I can't wait to make more of these. This is another pattern found on Etsy, Undies Pattern from ThatDarnCat.

Time to rest! HA, I mean, go clean up the mess. .. then off to my Middle Schooler's Open House!

KCWC - Day One

2010-09-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

I am off to a running start today for the Elsie Marley Kids Clothes Week Challenge. With 4 kids in the house, I'm definitely not at a loss for fall sewing projects.

Today I finished these much needed pajamas for Travis (Thanks for taking a 3 hour nap, by the way):

These were, once again, from pattern New Look 6932. Which is probably the most useful pattern I own, since it includes sizes for my 2 year old AND my 9 year old. Can't beat that.

"Alas, Poor Yoric, I knew him well"

I love these weird poses we got today! Travis is a real character these days. A recent conversation I overheard between him and his 12 year old brother:

James: "Travis, don't throw my things, that's not funny!!!"
(pause)
Travis: "How bout....funny?"
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up next for the KCWC : Heidi and Finn Hoodie, and finish the hem of Maura's Rennaisance costume, also I'm dying to try the new underpants pattern from that Darn Cat...

Pavement Show - Boston 9/18/10

2010-09-19T10:13:00.001-07:00

pavement
Originally uploaded by helium heels

We took Maura to her first concert last night. It was so great. We are so lucky she likes our music.

As huge Pavement fans, we were not disappointed, the band did an excellent job and played alot of songs from Wowee Zowee and Slanted and Enchanted. We all had a laugh about the band having the exact same haircuts that they had in the 90's Cut Your Hair video...if it works, why change it?!

My phone pictures came out blurry so I found this one via Flickr.

Something I didn't notice at the time was the inflatable Mr. Burns on stage! Love it.

Pavement Groupies

Sewing cool stuff for boys is possible.

2010-09-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

So Liam is my most fashion-concious child. He is the most picky about what he will and won't wear. He's a hard client to design for. This hoodie meets his tough standards. It's made from a clearance T-shirt I picked up in a size 2XL. I can't imagine why someone wearing a 2XL would avoid bright yellow with a flashy design. Anyway, yellow is Liam's favorite color and he loves graffiti-like designs, so I picked it up.

This is my 3rd hoodie using this hoodie pattern by LBB.

I've been accumulating quite a few knit fabric scraps, so I just bought this toddlers undies pattern so I can recycle the scraps and make Travis some cool underwear at the same time. I love recycled clothes.

But first I have to start and finish Maura's costume for halloween and King Richard's Faire, which we take her to every year for her birthday. I'm really nervous about messing this up since I've already spent 70 bucks on the supplies! I'll post it when it's done, wish me luck.

new improved Gnome T for Maura

2010-09-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

The Penny Carnival Back To School Sew Along continues!

This is the second gnome shirt for Maura with this fabric. The first one, made this spring, is so shrunk it is now only for pajamas. This one seems perfect!

Pattern used: New Look 6321. I made the XS size for her. It's so hard to find the right size for her right now, she's too big for the kids and a little small for the adult patterns. This one seems good!

even more fall clothes!

2010-09-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a new outfit for Travis. The raglan t shirt is made with one of my all time favorite go-to patterns, New Look 6932. The skateboard graphic is from my Silhouette SD machine, cut from freezer paper and painted in with tulip soft fabric paint.

So it's looks like it's for pajamas. It's great for all kinds of comfortable clothes.

The pants are upcycled from some Land's End pants my mom gave me, I loved the stripes, but for some reason the butt was SO baggy. Not very flattering.

Here is one of my new favorite shirts for Travis:

Another version of the MADE 90 minute shirt which is becoming quite a staple of Travis' wardrobe all year round. This is made with one of those short sleeved colored t shirts I see on sale everywhere this fall. I got this batch 5 for $10 at Walgreens Pharmacy! Travis is a fan of the Aquabats because he loves them on Yo Gabba Gabba. He looks pretty somber in this picture but earlier he was dancing and singing the Aquabats songs he knows.

I'm really enjoying sewing up fall/winter clothes for the kids since the weather has gotten a bit cooler. I've decided to participate in Kids Clothes Week Challenge at Elsie Marley . It is Sept. 20-26th. I can't wait for it to start!! I'm going to make a few shirts for my 13 year old daugther as well as a this unisex hoodie from Heidi and Finn. Should be fun!

on a roll for fall sewing!

2010-09-04T12:26:00.000-07:00

Another finished back to school item! Liam is very happy with how his hoodie came out. We used plain white knit I had in my stash, and he tie dyed it himself. This is my second lil blue boo hoodie Recycled T Shirt Hoodie this week. I'm trying to see how many fall items I can make for the kids. I've joined Penny Carnival's back to school sew along.

If you care to join the sew along, post to the flickr group HERE.

recycled t shirt hoodie

2010-09-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

I finished another sundress for myself, and even though it's still obscenely hot this week, I started on some fall clothes for Travis. My favorite so far is this recycled hoodie pattern from lil blue boo. I know I am going to make several of these. This is completely recycled out of old t-shirts we had laying around. Such a great use for my husband's favorite Pavement shirt, it had a bunch of holes but he still liked it, so I ordered him a new one and took scissors to the old one.

This pattern is SO FUN to make. I thought the instructions were so thorough and easy to understand. I especially love how the sleeves are constructed so super easily and don't have to be set-in. Set-in sleeves are a bummer. I'm currently working on a tie dye version for my 9 year old.

Here is another finished sundress, Burda 8071, which I wore to our friends, Tom and Kristina's, wedding last week. Probably the most fun wedding I've ever been to! It was a 3 day camp out complete with swimming, boating and campfires. They even had a sundae bar instead of the usual wedding cake. We had a blast!

A Productive Birthday

2010-08-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

This week was my 36th birthday!

For my birthday gift I got a Silhouette SD Machine! I've been seeing them all over the web and it looked like a fun toy. So I took advantage of a blog promotion on V and Co. Blog and got one for myself.

Here are a few of the things I've made in the last few days:

This is a dress that I had splattered bleach on. I used the heat transfer to cover the bleach spots with these birds. I have yet to wash it, so I'm holding my breath. I'm worried this will wash off!

I made this vinyl decal by scanning a sketch I made of Totoro.

Of course I had to do a little scrapbooking. I have a ton of time to catch up on. I think it will be easier now that I no longer have to buy stickers for the words and I can print them myself. I'm setting a goal of one layout per week. I'd rather be sewing, but my kids enjoy these albums so much!!

Sew Serendipity skirt done!

2010-08-15T09:40:00.000-07:00

I loved the photos in this book! I had to have it. I needed the skirt on the cover. I looked around in my fabric stash and found this great blue and brown combo. I'm happy with how this came out. I've already worn this skirt out twice.

I thought this was a pretty easy pattern and I was glad this book had full-size pattern pieces included. I heeded the author's advice and bought a ruffler attachment for my machine. I love it! It was so easy to make the ruffles on the skirt. I'll definitely be making more from this book in the future.

detail - I think the pocket makes the skirt!

pretending to be a catalog model

freezer paper stenciling - I heart you

2010-08-06T11:19:00.000-07:00

When I don't have much time, freezer paper stenciling is such a great quick craft fix. (I learned it here: freezer paper stenciling tutorial) It also saves me money! I've been sewing more for my family this year than ever and I love it when I make things that I would normally buy for the kids. Like this Totoro shirt! Maura's been wanting one for awhile and on ebay they're like $17 + shipping . Here I've made one for about $3. This is made with one of those cheap Jersey's T-shirts that are on sale everywhere. The greatest thing about this method of stenciling is how well they wash (using tulip soft fabric paint)! I'm so glad to have found something that works on shirts that can stand up to repeated washings.

Don't you love Totoro?!

Right now I am also working on a skirt from the book Sew Serendipity. I am making the skirt on the cover. I totally did not need another sewing book, but this one I couldn't resist!! It comes with full-sized patterns to save me time. I'll show off the skirt when it's finished.

a few quick projects

2010-08-01T07:49:00.000-07:00

It's been so hot here in New Hampshire in July that my sewing area has turned into a literal 'sweatshop'. I've been opting for some quick and easy projects for the kids.

bomb shirt for the T-Bomb, especially true in restaurants. This was another freezer paper stencil. I can't get enough of those.

A quick and awesome project for a 12 year old boy! The CD Pocket from the book One-Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Fabric Projects; Look How Much You Can Make with Just One Yard of Fabric! It was quick and easy and my son is loving it. It has 12 pockets for his video games to keep them safe from the T-Bomb!

"dawdy yote!" - (aka doggie shirt)

2010-07-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

Here is Travis modeling his newest 90 minute shirt.

I like these because the ribbed trim is so cute on him and the color possibilities are endless. I added the doggie on the front using a stencil I picked up at Michaels near the fabric paint.

a new summer dress

2010-06-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

I feel quite guilty looking at the stack of fabric I have waiting to be turned into sundresses. I finally finished one!

This is made with New Look 6974, which while searching for a link I have found is out of print! The fabric is by Kitty Yoshida, City Girl Espresso Pinwheel which I bought at FabbyFabric.

I really like some of the new New Look patterns. I'm so glad pattern manufacturers are finally getting a clue! That being said, I did have to lower the neckline on this dress because it was too high/matronly for me. I wanted it to look more like the halter dresses I buy at the Gap and J Crew. I also really like the long skirt included in this pattern!!! I've made these twice, and will probably make more. I'm not much for shorts in the summer and wear mostly dresses and skirts, so those long skirts are a staple for me.

Next up, summer robot pajamas for Maura...

simpsons phone/ipod case

2010-06-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

Another case finished. I sent this one in along with the previous Domo case with my son for his school auction. I managed to get them past Maura, no small feat, who wants everything I make for herself. Suddenly she *needed* a Domo Ipod case so badly! I don't feel guilty, her room is stuffed full of homemade goodies. Plus, I have plans to make her a Totoro case soon.

I like how it came out. Some of my favorite characters made it on. Comic Book Store Guy, Chief Wiggum, Gus and Lunchlady Doris to name a few. We're a Simpsons family for sure. Bart is there, too. Which is good since it says "Where's Bart?". He's on the inside of the tab when you open the case.

Up next: finish Mom's birthday gift before Thursday...wish me luck.

The hardest way is not always the best way...

2010-06-04T10:27:00.001-07:00

Today during the T-Bomb's nap I decided I would make something for James' upcoming 6th grade auction.

It's a really cool idea they've had at the school. For the last quarter of the year in 6th grade the kids earn "money" printed with the teachers faces! Each week they 'earn' money for coming to school, they can also earn extra money for good deeds and have to pay money for bad deeds. Then at the end they have a big auction where they can spend their money on donated items. I should have done this earlier, but as is my style, started to think about this today.

I know there is usually a shortage of boy items, so after racking my brain for gender-neutral items to make, I settled on ipod or phone cases. I'm working on a Domo case right now, just look at the mess I make! Here is the finished Domo case. I fought with the fleece a little and ended up with kind of a lopsided face! Maybe it adds to the charm? Maybe not? I'm out of time today. I'm hoping to get some more sewing time this weekend!

the new peeps...

2010-06-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

Look what my kids managed to talk me into this weekend! We already have 11 full-sized hens...what's 6 more???? 17... that's what! I must be nuts.

"But mine are only bantam chicks, three bantams are only as big as 1 1/2 regular chicks"

Not pictured: James' chick, "Rover". James was busy at the time of this photo shoot using his 2 hours of weekend gaming time (no video games during the week, we ARE the meanest parents.)

a skirt and a headband

2010-05-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

As part of the "sewing for myself" theme, I finally drafted and made a skirt from Cal Patch's book. I'm glad to finally have tried one of the projects in the book, it's been on my to-do list for months (along with so so many other things). I have to confess that while I love the idea of drafting my own clothing patterns, and it really appeals to the goth teenager in me, I have such limited free-time to sew that I usually use store-bought or online patterns. I hope when my toddler is a bit older I can draft more clothing patterns. I haven't even used my dress form yet.

This is the new headband I made for myself. I love the retro vibe. I would like tons more of these! I have one similar in my shop and I was tempted to shoplift it from myself so I knew I needed to get busy making one.

That's it for today. It's been a busy week trying to keep the house in order. I hope everyone has a nice long weekend!! We are chick-sitting for one of Maura's friends who are going away. The kids are looking forward to having chicks again!

more selfish sewing!

2010-05-13T10:31:00.001-07:00

I really love messenger bags. This project has been on my to-do list for a long, long time. I decided in honor of Mother's Day I'd finally finish this one for myself. This is loosely based on the messenger bag from SEW WHAT Bags which I love, I really like all the sew what books.

And to replace my old falling-apart wristlet, so I don't lose my keys in that giant bag...
these are made with one of my favorite fabrics, August Fields by Amy Butler. I don't remember where I got it, It's been in my stash for over a year. I love this color combo!
Is it brown or plum, I still don't know! Inside I made a huge velcro pocket on one side to house all the diapering supplies and keep them out of my stuff, I'm pretty excited about Travis and I being able to share a bag peacefully.

A happy Mother's Day

2010-05-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

I hope all the moms out there had a great day! I know I did.

We went to the Bedford Village Inn (my favorite restaurant!) for brunch, which included some of the best food I've ever had. We got to enjoy it with both our moms. I wasn't expecting a gift from Jim since he already gave me a beautiful diamond necklace for an early Mother's Day gift and we just picked up my new car on Friday night. So I was shocked when he and the kids gave me a gift bag containing a new lense for my (new) slr camera. Whoa, I'm so spoiled.

I came home and took a few pictures in the yard.

This is Sauron. The chickens were all escaped from their area and in my garden when we got home. Their area is plenty big enough for their enjoyment (and then some), but for some reason they keep digging under the fence and winding up here. Who knew chickens were so hard to corral. So I used them as a subject for my photography!

My mom loved her market tote and wallet made from her 70's floral wedding dress. Now I wish I took a picture, duh. No sewing today, but I have a few on-going projects to finish.

I finished it! My entry for Spring Top Week 2010

2010-04-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

whoa, I just made it. The flickr pool closes on friday!

I made this top in navy blue because I was going for a basic top which would mix well into my spring/summer wardrobe. Then I decided it was a little too plain and jazzed it up with a freezer paper stencil in light blue.

Here I am freezing to death trying to get a decently lit picture! Wow is it cold in NH today.

Here is the back of the top. (with a few raindrops)

I used this pattern, New Look 6713, which I recently purchased for 25 cents!! Considering the incredible amount I spend on supplies and craft books, I'm pretty proud of that!

This pattern was easy to make, I would make it again in another color.

I finally get one of these awesome buttons! Thanks to Rae for the inspiration!

new owls this weekend

2010-04-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I when I was in my softie craze, I made a pattern for this style owl because I knew he was so cute I had to make more. All weekend was rainy and cold. So it was a great time to make some more.

Now I just need to think of some names for them!

Snow? Are you kidding me?

2010-04-16T05:45:00.001-07:00

We woke up to snow this morning!! Unbelievable! Look at this sad photo of our daffodils.

I've decided to crank up the woodstove and not leave the house today. Luckily I got a shipment of wool felt yesterday to keep me occupied. I'm planning on making some flower headbands to cheer me up. Felt always makes me happy!

2 new T- shirts

2010-04-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Shirt #1-- Chillin with my gnomies -- Sweet gnome fabric from fabricfairy.com and made from an old out of print Simplicity pattern with a few t-shirt options. This was the very first time I have sewn for my little girl using a women's size pattern (boo hoo). She was never one for frilly dresses anyway. I measured her and used size 8. This is her new favorite shirt!! I like how it fits, compared to #2!

Shirt #2-- Raven freezer paper stencil on an Old Navy brand shirt size small. It is kind of an icky fit for a 13 year old, geez Old Navy!, and I'm not even a prude. Because of her long arms and torso, I've started to buy ladies size small for her. Anyways not crazy about this fit, but we like the raven!

show and tell - Maura's owl wallet and Ipod Touch holster

2010-04-13T05:56:00.000-07:00

Both of these were done without any pattern. I just designed these as I sat at the machine. The best thing about these projects is how little fabric they take, so you can use up your scraps. On the Ipod case I lined it with fleece so it would be very soft inside. She loves these. It's a great project for a 13 year old!

I DO have other kids, really...

2010-04-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

OK, I admit I've been posting only things I've made for Travis lately! I've been spending all day with him while the other 3 are at school. And besides he needs clothes the most right now!!! That's my story.

Travis in his new pants. Another quick and easy pair using Dana's flat front pants pocket tutorial. This version is made out of standard blue/ivory pillow ticking.

I did make Maura an ipod case and an owl wallet too, but took no pictures, I may have to rectify that. I also just received my shipment from the Fabric Fairy and plan on making something for Maura or myself out of this great gnome fabric:

Maura and I love all the same things- it's amazing!

Here is the Totoro I made for her bedroom:

I've just got to find some good projects for the 2 older boys...stuff they won't find embarrasing! Possibly some messenger bags or pajama pants.

rollie pollie DONE!

2010-04-12T06:14:00.000-07:00

This has been a slow moving project over the last month or so. I had meant to make it for Travis' 2nd birthday on April 8th. This pattern is available here, and is one of many totally awesome patterns by Dana on the Made website.

I got the insert done in time, but just finished the cover a few days later. I had trouble deciding which fabric to use but ended up going with this fish fabric, which was really a twin sheet set from Target. After the amount of money I spent on this project (the stuffing alone cost 40 dollars), I was glad to save a little on fabric for the cover. What I really like about this project is that I can make a new cover when we get tired of this one!

Travis loves it! I'm glad I made the larger size since my older 3 children can share it and it's big enough for them.

this week

2010-03-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

My sewing "studio" (corner of my room)

custom bag for Aunt Carol --done!

she requested a shorter version of my market tote.

_______________________________________________

Also working on-- plaid skirt for myself using Cal Patch's book, Design-It-Yourself Clothes, I'll post that when I'm done. I'm way into that book as well as this book by Wendy Mullin, Sew U dresses. My new dressform will be arriving this week and I am so stoked! I plan on making some new clothes and especially dresses for myself this spring. Project Runway here I come. I just wish I lived anywhere remotely near a fashion district so I could get some appealing fabric. Joann's is leaving me cold. They sure could use some younger, hipper buyers!

Rockin' Pajamas

2010-03-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Travis likes his new pajamas. They were made using New Look pattern 6932

I used the freezer paper stenciling idea from Made. It was really fun do try! My daughter loves dragons and ravens, so I will be making a raven shirt with her soon.

I wanted to put some text with the guitar, "Travis Rocks" was suggested by 11 year old brother, James.

New camera is here!

2010-03-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received my new camera that I ordered from Amazon. It was time to retire the point-and-shoot I've had for the last 5 years and return to a more manual model. I chose the Canon Rebel Xsi after doing some research and finding a super good deal on Amazon which included free shipping! I was keeping an eye on the price, but wanted an easy to use SLR. I can already see why this model received such high reviews. I love it already!

I was finally able to take a picture of Angus inside the house without those creepy glowing eyes from the flash!

I have much more experimenting to do, but I have to say I'm happy with the accurate colors I can achieve without using a flash inside the house! That was what I missed most about my old manual film camera.

Here's a random picture of Liam!

More sewing for Tiny T

2010-03-15T09:38:00.001-07:00

I've finally gotten around to sewing some clothes for Travis lately. Here are the pants I made for him using this tutorial. I love the big patch pockets on these. I think these would be cute in a striped fabric, like a train engineer.

Right now I'm finishing up a pair of guitar pajamas for him too. I'm on a roll! I will post those when finished. Hopefully my new camera will be here by then. It's challenging enough photographing a moving toddler!

one of his poses...

"I'm done with getting my picture taken now,

... go away."

for the Library Auction

2010-03-12T15:54:00.000-08:00

These guys are going for a great cause. The annual Whipple Free Library silent auction!

Messenger bag for the auction. Black corduroy and 'Koto' fabric. I believe it's by Alexander Henry. This has a ton of pockets.

Another auction item. It's a bonnet and sundress in a size 2. If Travis was a girl he'd be wearing this! I made it in Amy Butler blue and ivory paisley fabric. This is from a New Look pattern which I've made and given before as a new baby gift. These are just fun to make.

cute and easy hat!

2010-03-08T15:14:00.001-08:00

This is Travis' new hat which I made from this pattern.
It was so easy, I will probably make more! Next I have to show off the cute plaid pants I made to go with this hat.

New Etsy Shop Name!

2010-02-28T17:37:00.000-08:00

My new Shop is located at www.shadylaneHANDMADE.etsy.com

I finally finished moving my items over from fangobbles.etsy.com. I'm thinking I'll use my old shop for de-stashing my supplies that I don't need anymore.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unrelated: we have survived a 2-day power outage due to a NorEaster that struck on Thursday night. Luckily it wasn't nearly as difficult as the ice storm of December 2008!

90 minute shirt

2010-02-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

Here is my first attempt at the 90 minute shirt. I found the directions on this blog which I now love! She is doing a month of posts all things you can make for boys. With 3 boys I have been so excited to check what she posts each day.

I love these colors on my little redhead. I can't wait to try another one.. I noticed one sleeve is shorter than the other! oops! This is great practice for using the serger on knits. It is made from an old T-shirt of my husband's, which I think is a great way to recycle.

Celebrate the boy!!! Check out these blogs:

The other completely awesome blog that is featuring boy projects every day in Feb:

What's new?

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

It has been a long, long time since I've updated the blog!

Once I got the Christmas gifts done, I've been very busy sewing new items for my etsy shop. I've also been buying tons of new fabric. Yesterday I finished this blue bird Market tote that I love! It would go so well with a pair of Jeans.

I've got some new messenger bags in the works right now, which I will post soon!

Check out the Dragon Treasury!

2008-03-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

Maura has opened her own Etsy shop!

http://www.dragontreasury.etsy.com/

She makes polymer clay dragons and has been working on a line of original ACEO's featuring beautiful dragon artwork.

ACEO stands for Art Card Edition Original. It is a great way to collect original artwork but in a miniature form. They are the same size as trading cards and are like a portable art collection.

Maura has sold two clay dragons so far! Check out her website.

Maura as Queen Elizabeth...

2008-03-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Maura's 5th grade class read biographies and did oral reports on their people. I almost died when I found out who Maura picked..I knew this costume would be most challenging. We pulled it off though without buying a thing! Every parent should own a hot glue gun! It was amazing, but she dug this dress out of the depths of her closet and suggested adding on to it. I say it was amazing because she isn't at all girly and would never wear a dress by choice, so she hardly has any!

It turned out pretty well. She already has the bright red hair so that was a bonus!