Blog Button Semi-Tute and Sponsorship Swap

Have you ever accomplished something and looked back and had absolutely no idea how you did it?
Welcome to my relationship with html:) [For all you non-bloggers, that's the computer code you use to make magic happen on your blog...links and clickables and all that jazz.]

Out in bloggy-land there is a sponsorship swap going on. Basically, it's a way for smallish blogs to help spread some love to other similar smallish blogs. I put your button on my blog, and you put mine on yours. And I really wanted to play along...I mean REALLY!

Unfortunately, that means that you have to be good enough with html to make that whole button and grab box thing happen. HA! With the help of a new bloggy-friend, Rachael (that's her over there on the sidebar at Imagine Gnats, so go say hi!), I managed to get the crazy thing functional. But, I have no idea how I did it! NONE! Really!

But, I'm quite certain that I'm not the only html-hating bloggy gal (or guy) out there, so I'm gonna try to help y'all!

So for you fellow html-clueless...here's kinda how I did it.

1. You need a square image. I'm a photoshop girl, but for this I highly recommend photobucket. It's just way too simple to make a cute one and get the codes you need. It also cuts out a step because you do the edit right on the host. And if you have no idea what I'm talking about it's ok, I don't either...but, here's what you do.

1a. Find a pic of something that relates to the content of your blog. I chose the pic of the fabric rainbow I'm using in Belle's bedroom (that is - yes- STILL unfinished). It is colorful, fun, a decent photo, and hints at the content of my blog.

1b. Upload that pic to photobucket...you will need to create an account if you don't already have one.

1c. Crop that pic to as close to square as you can. Then be sure to save a copy and work from the squared copy. That preserves your original image so you don't have to upload it again.

1d. Add your text by using the decorating tab. It's super easy and pretty self-explanatory...just click around until you get something you like. You can also play around with the other tabs to make changes...I think I sharpened the image, but that was all...but there are some fun things you can do:)

1e. Save all those edits.

2. So you have your square image...great! I wish I could tell you that was the hard part....but, sorry. No. Now you need some code. I would love to just be able to give you the exact code I used, but I'm pretty sure I messed it up somehow because blogger changed what I typed after I saved it. And unfortunately, I have no idea what I did wrong, what blogger changed, or how to help you use the code that is embedded in my button. So instead, I'm going to tell you how I got to where I am and we will hope that it works for you too! I am completely convinced that the html deities just sit around all day and arbitrarily give you a "WORKS," or "NO WAY LADY!" response depending on their mood or what they had for breakfast. So I really will keep my fingers crossed for you.

2a.Anyway...go into your design tab if you're on blogger...or wherever you make changes to your blog. Open up a text widget...in blogger you click Add a Gadget and select Text from the list.

2b. Then hop over to The Little Hen House and check out the post on button making. There you will find the code that I started with. Go ahead and copy and paste it into your text widget.

2c. Then it's time to make it work. You will need to edit the code you just pasted to include your own links. You will know your blog URL (be sure to include the http:// business). When you need to input the code for your image, photobucket is going to come in really handy. Swing back on over to your image and you will find a little box on the right hand side. Click in the boxes to copy the html code, the img code, or the direct link...depending on what your particular code asks for. There are different codes for different hosts.

2d. Cross your fingers and click save.

3. Now it's time to test it.

3a. Test one...is it there? Yes - Good!

3b. If you click on the pic does it link you back to your blog? Yes - Excellent!

3c. Copy the code from the grab box. Create a new html widget on your sidebar. Paste in the code and save it. Now view your blog. Click on the NEW button...does it link you back to your blog? Yes - SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPEALIDOCIOUS! You did it!

4. Now for those of you who answered NO to one of the above questions...that was me. About 600 times. I actually broke out in a sweat trying to make this thing work. If you're totally stuck, feel free to shoot me an email or leave a comment here and I will try to help...notice I said, "TRY." I really want to help. I do. But, I think I was pretty clear that I have no idea how I actually made mine work, so my assistance will be limited. But, I will try!

Good luck and let me know when you're ready to SWAP!

Easter Swap Project Inspiration #4: Fabric Eggs Tutorial and Pattern

Hello sewers! Is that a word? Seamstress sounds so...I don't know...official. Like you have a little tailor's shop somewhere. But I never can seem to find the right word to describe people like me...oh well!

Another great Easter toy swap inspiration for you! Or just a simple spring sewing project if you prefer:)

I went searching for a pattern for fabric eggs and found this fantastic tutorial/pattern over at Retro Mama. It is really well written, and has tons of pics to explain each step along the way. Whether you are swapping or not, I think you will be excited to add this to your growing list of must make projects. I can see these in bright springy prints for Easter, but also in various shades of natural, brown, or even light blue linen or possibly wool felt to be added to your play food collection. YUM!

And while you're over at Retro Mama, be sure to spend a little time browsing around. Her patterns are gorgeous (just love Ruthie Bear!) and she has some other super sweet tutorials - you're just going to flip for her little houses, I know it:) And you just might find her somewhere else....

Teach Yourself to Knit in Just ONE Day - A Somewhat Tutorial for which I can claim NO credit

Once upon a time, I taught myself to knit. I HATED it and promptly vowed to never again pick up a pair of needles.

But, then I started to feel frustrated at the lack of options available to those of us who prefer to crochet. Those knitters got all the cool patterns, and I was a just a tiny bit jealous.

Go on...click the pic to buy this super cool pattern! After a couple weeks of practice you'll be ready to try it:)

So, I decided to try again (mainly so I could use that pattern up there!).

And guess what...I LOVE it! I'm officially hooked and have been knitting up a storm. In the last few days I've completed two cowls and started a third. I've visited the craft store to pick up additional needles, and even scored a bundle of great yarn on $0.99 clearance (YAY!).

So here's how I learned...please note that NONE of this is my own work! I'm by no means an expert after a grand total of 6 days of knitting. But, because the learning process is so fresh in my memory, I thought that you might benefit from seeing the process I followed. I hope the following links, posts, patterns, etc. are helpful. And if you have any questions, shoot 'em my way and I'll see if I can answer them, find an answer, or locate a video that will help.

So here goes...

You will need:

*a #9 circular needle that is 16"

*a stitch marker (if you want to save a couple of bucks, get a small rubber band or hair band...just something small and round that will fit over your knitting needle to mark your place)

*a skein of SOFT worsted weight yarn (at least 150 yards) - read the package info if you aren't sure if you have worsted weight, and yes, SOFT is important...your finished product will be cuddled up next to the soft skin of your neck...you don't want something scratchy

Here is a link to the pattern that we will be using to create a cowl (that's a short scarf that doesn't have ends). It's from Confetti Creative Knitting and can also be found on Ravelry. Some of the pattern directions will be summarized in this post, but you will need the actual pattern to be able to follow along. This is the very first pattern I attempted. I chose it because it uses only the two most basic knitting stitches, the knit and the purl. I also like the fact that by knitting in the round and using a stitch marker, you don't need to do much counting. Always a plus when I tend to knit while chatting with Belle or snuggling with Bee.

First you will need to cast on. This is how you get your first round of stitches onto your needles. There are a gazillion ways to cast on out there in the world. After auditioning MANY of them, I recommend the "gun" method. It was the easiest for me to figure out and actually remember for the second project. NOTE - Some patterns will specify a particular type of cast on, so as you move on to other patterns, make sure you check that. So, now go view this video and it will get you started.

Now because we are going to be knitting in the round, you will need to know how to join the ends. MAKE SURE THAT YOU DON'T ALLOW YOUR STRING OF STITCHES TO TWIST! Here is your video to show you how to join.

Now it's time to start stitching. Because I began as a crocheter (is that a word???), I really don't like the traditional method of knitting. It feels awkward and clumsy. So, I received a tip from a family friend (thanks, Mrs. Starr!), that I should try the "Continental" method. Well, folks...that's what did it for me! As soon as I began to use the continental method, I fell in love. It has the same easy rhythm as crocheting, but allows me to use those cool patterns that made me so jealous before. So, the videos in this quasi-tutorial will teach this method.

Be sure to use your stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round. You use it by simply slipping it over your right needle before the first stitch of each round.

The pattern calls for you to begin by purling 3 rounds. Here is a video to show you how to purl continental style.

Now you will need to knit 2 rounds. Here's your continental knit stitch video.

From here, you will be able to follow the pattern through the remaining rounds until the binding off. When you are ready to bind off, use this video to see how it is done. She isn't knitting in the round or using the continental style, but you should be able to see how the bind off works.

YOU DID IT!

Disclaimer: This was most likely your FIRST attempt at knitting. If you crocheted in a previous life and have some idea of how to control the tension on the yarn, then you are likely at least somewhat pleased with your end result. BUT, if you've never stitched before, then the whole tension thing is tough, and your cowl may be a little wonky. First, it will still keep you warm in the snow. Second, each one you make will get a little better. My first attempt (even with years of crochet experience) resulted in such mismatched tensions from the top to the bottom that it actually looks like I added some extra purl rounds. But my second one only had one small section that was a little crazy. And my third is looking GREAT so far. So stick with it and keep trying...it does get easier and faster as you go.

Now...if you're in love, be sure to visit Elisa McLaughlin Designs on Etsy. Her projects are quick and so fashionable. And she has been incredibly helpful as I try to pick out patterns that are actually manageable for a newbie like me. That's her head wrap up there...so go click on it, ok!

Show It Off - Quilt Pattern

This quilt is all about showing off! Whether you choose to show off a hand-stitched design or a large print on a beautiful fabric, you'll have this whipped up in a jiffy! The pattern below is really just intended to give quilters the dimensions of my pieces, so they can replicate if they so choose. But, I added more detail so those of you with sewing experience could play along. If you're a total quilt newbie and would like to see a Quilting 101 series, just leave a comment and let me know. I have one in the works, but it keeps getting pushed to the back burner. Having someone hold me accountable, might actually make it happen:) You'll need: 4 center pieces 8.5" square (something you want to show off) 4 coordinating fabrics perle cotton thread if you choose to do hand-quilting crib-size batting (or a 32" square of batting if you're like me and buy big batting and cut it up) 1.5 yards backing and binding fabric Note: All pieces are cut using a rotary cutter and square ruler. All pieces are joined by placing right sides together and sewing using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.

1. From each coordinating fabric: Cut 2 rectangles measuring 3.5"x8.5" and 2 rectangles measuring 3.5"x14.5". [And you experienced quilters can probably stop reading right here and run off to find something to show off:)]

2. Lay-out: Decide which coordinating fabric will accompany each center piece. Then decide on the block placement for the finished quilt.

3. Assemble Block: Attach the two smaller rectangles (coordinating fabric) to each side of the first center square. Press seams toward outside. Then attach longer rectangles to top and bottom of center panel. Press seams to outside. Repeat for next 3 blocks.

4. Assemble quilt top: Sew top pair of blocks together. Then sew bottom pair of blocks together. Press seams in opposite directions (ie. top seam to right and bottom seam to left) as this will make matching seams easier. Sew top row to bottom row matching the center seams. Press seam toward bottom of quilt.

5. Create Sandwich: Place quilt top on batting. Trim batting to approximately 2 inches wider than top on all 4 sides. Place top and batting on backing fabric. Trim backing to approximately 2 inches wider than batting on all 4 sides. Extra around edges allows for any slipping during quilting process and will be trimmed later. Baste well using your preferred method (pins, basting spray, etc.).

6. If machine quilting - Stitch 1/4" on each side of center square outline and 1/4" on either side of seams between 4 large blocks.

7. If hand-quilting - select perle cotton thread to complement block. I prefer to use variegated, but that's just my personal choice. Hand-stitch, keeping stitches as even as possible, 1/4" inside and outside center square. To stitch around the outside edge of each large block, you will need to stitch 1/4" from the 2 inside seams and 3/4" from the outside raw edges. This will accomodate your binding in the next step.

8. Prepare binding - Cut three 3 inch strips of backing fabric for binding. Sew short ends together to form one LONG, SKINNY piece of fabric. Fold strip in half lengthwise and press well.

9. Attach Binding - Place binding raw edges together with quilt top and sew using 1/2" seam allowance and mitering corners. If you don't know how to miter the corners of quilt binding and want to see some pics, just leave a comment and I'll get a quick tutorial together for you:) Fold to back, press well and hand-stitch folded edge to back of quilt.

Questions? No? GREAT! Now go get busy:):):)

Pinwheel Quilt Along

So, a while back, I told you that one of my sewing goals for 2011 was to return to my quilting roots. I think I might have taken that one a little TOO seriously! Right now, I currently have 4 quilts in process that I hope to finish in the next few days. And I have finished two others in the last week. That's a whole lot of quilting! Now mind you...they are all doll or baby/crib size. Nothing large has been completed, though there are 3 of those in the works too! YIKES! Oh, and I just remembered a mini that's almost finished too, good grief! So when my new friends at Sew Lux Fabrics let me in on their little quilt along, of course, I jumped right in:) This one was a no brainer. I could whip it up in a jiffy and I could make use of some of my stash (the other sewing goal that I've revealed...there's one left that I refuse to admit because I'm just too scared to pursue it!). This little cutie is intended for my Belle. She's been a little jealous ever since Bee got a baby quilt for Christmas. Belle plays with her dolls every morning before the rest of the family gets up. She has the doll cradle that my grandfather made for me when I was little in her bedroom now. It already has a hand-knit blanket that her Aunt made her when she was born folded up in it as the mattress, but those poor dollies just look cold:) So it seemed right that she needed a new quilt for the cradle. We won't even mention how CRAZY she has been going since there have been so many dolls and doll quilts flying out the door for orders recently, while none were heading her way:)

This quilt has actually already been quilted and the binding is attached. It's just waiting for the binding to be completed. But, I don't have pictures of it since then, so just take my word for it...and I promise I'll show it to you when it is finished.

And just a note of thanks - My mom sent me the charm pack that I used for this quilt quite a while ago...so thanks, Mom! You've made Belle a very happy little girl yet again (and she thanks you doubly for her new movie!).

ROAR!

I am lucky to have a group of very lovely and very loyal, local customers. I've done everything from birthday party t-shirts, to holiday skirts for these super sweet ladies. And even though I don't know their children, I feel like I am watching them grow up through their clothes, toys, and bedroom accessories.

I "met" Davis through his birthday party t-shirt quite a while ago. You may remember that one with the giant 2 on the front. I even had to privilege of helping him announce his new "Big Brother" status when his mom found out she was expecting. And now that his little brother is about to arrive, Davis is getting a big boy bedroom. His super-creative mom has designed quite a room complete with dinosaur wall decals and a hand-painted growth chart. And I got to add these adorable pillows to the mix.

The dinosaur pillow has a corduroy applique design on the front. The Charlie Brown pillow was made with this tutorial. It is really simple, but really tedious! All the measuring, clipping, and pressing of those tiny points just about drove me bonkers. But it is so cute now that it's finished, that I think it was totally worth it!

I hope Davis likes them...and his new brother:)

TUTORIAL - String Pieced Quilt Block

New to quilting? Tired of traditional piecing? Looking to machine-piece for the first time? Need an eye-catching product that requires little thinking? You've come to the right place!

I've been working on a quilt for Belle's bed for a few weeks now and thought I would take some time and show you all how I'm doing it. This is a standard foundation method for string piecing...nothing fancy here. I haven't reinvented the wheel or created some magic method...just a basic show and tell of the steps in the process.

The tutorial below is heavy on pictures and light on words. You will need a square of foundation fabric (with this particular method this fabric WILL show on the front of you block, so pick something that complements your color scheme), strips or "strings" of a variety of fabrics in a variety of widths, a large square ruler, a rotary cutter, pins, a hot iron, thread and sewing machine.

This is the completed block, and while it doesn't look incredibly impressive by itself, don't let it fool you! When combined with other blocks it is pretty fantastic!

Begin by determining your finished block size...mine will be 12.5" square. Use your ruler and rotary cutter to cut a square that is 1/2" to 1" larger than your desired finished block size. I cut a 13" square of natural colored linen for my foundation. If you are new to quilting and are afraid of making errors you will probably want to go a full 1" larger than your finished block size just to be on the safe side.

Fold your foundation square in half on the diagonal and press well.

I like to assembly line piece these blocks as it saves on trips to the iron, so I prepped 8 foundations. I recommend that if you are new to string piecing, you start with one at a time. As soon as you get the hang of it though, you'll make progress a lot faster if you do more than one at a time. Here are my 8 prepped foundations.

Use your square ruler to draw a faint pencil line 1/2" on EACH side of your fold line.

This line will not show in your finished block, but it is very important for getting everything lined up correctly.

Here are my pencil lines.

These lines will result in a 1/2" strip of visible foundation fabric in the center of your block. If you would like to see more or less foundation fabric you can adjust the distance of your line from the fold on your fabric.

If you are planning a large project then you will need to know which colors to select for your blocks. I used graph paper to design Belle's quilt. Then it was very easy to count up the number of blocks needed for each color combination. You've seen all the blocks with red/pink in them already. Today's block will be blue and green.

Another option is to go SCRAPPY! For this you will select any fabrics from your stash without regard for color or even value...it all works out in the end I promise:)

At this point, you will need to cut your "strings." Strings are simply long strips of fabric cut in various widths. My widths range from 1-3.5". When making smaller blocks I tend to use thinner strings so that there are still 12-16 different fabrics in each block. If you are following my dimensions you will need at least 8 different fabrics of each color (8 blues, 8 greens, etc.) so that you do not have to repeat a particular fabric in a block. I'm sorry I don't have any pictures of string cutting...I pre-cut all my strings for the entire quilt last week. Just use your ruler and rotary cutter and slice away:)

To attach your first string, with right sides together, align the raw edge of the string with the pencil line on your foundation. Pin in place. Use a 1/4" seam allowance to sew the strip to the foundation.

Fold the strip back so that wrong sides are together and press well.

Repeat the process on the other side to attach the second string.

You now have a string on each side and a small strip of foundation peeking out in the middle.

From this point forward you can work on both sides of the block at the same time. Select your next two strings, place them right sides together with the previously attached strings (blue to blue; green to green) and align the raw edges of the new string with the one that has already been attached to the foundation. Pin in place and use a 1/4" seam allowance to attach the new strings to each side of the block.

Open up the strings you just attached and press well.

You will repeat this process to continue attaching new strings to each side of the block. Be careful that you do not use the same fabric twice within a block. Your edges will be messes and that's OK! It is VITAL that your press well each time you attach a string. This will prevent bumps and rumples in your finished block.

When you have covered the entire foundation in strings, it is time to trim the block. I just happen to have a 12.5" ruler and want a 12.5" finished block...this is VERY HELPFUL, but NOT necessary.

If you haven't used a square ruler very much, you are now about to become good friends with your new tool.

Look carefully at your square and you will see a diagonal line running across it in one direction. You need to align that diagonal line with the diagonal fold in the middle of your block. MAKE SURE THAT, HOWEVER YOU MOVE YOUR RULER FROM THIS POINT ON, THESE TWO DIAGONAL LINES REMAIN ALIGNED!!!

Center your ruler on your block.

Check that diagonal again...still lined up??? GOOD!

Now use your rotary cutter to slice off each messy edge.

Keep an eye on that diagonal...your ruler may want to slip a little at this step.

You now have one string-pieced block! Like I said, it doesn't look like much now, but put with similar companions, it becomes a show-stopper!

Now go give it a shot, and be sure to share your results. AND if you're still with me and interested in a block swap let me know and we can set up a little exchange:) I'm working on scrappy 6.5" blocks (a little bit different method, but we can chat about that) for a doll quilt and would love to get some new fabrics into the mix!

HAVE FUN!

Scary Skull Skirt

A while back I made a mountain of skirts for Belle. I had the worst trouble keeping this one secret! Luv it, luv it, luv it:)

Find the how-to details here Basic Skirt Tutorial.

Making Do Monday - Shell Collecting Bag

First, let me apologize for skipping Making Do Monday last week. This is where I was...

Watching this...

And more of this...

And some of this...
So once again, I'm sorry...so sorry!

But, at least I road-tested this week's project:)

Belle has a thing for bags...and HOARDING! So the night before we left for the beach, I thought she might like a new vessel for collecting shells. I raided the stash as usual and here's a quick how-to for a Shell Collecting Bag (or rock/leaf/flower/stick/gum wrapper/fabric scrap/ collecting...we've done it ALL!).

Finished Bag measures approximately 10"x12".

You will need:

Fabric Scraps

Cotton Quilt Batting Scraps

All seam allowances are 1/2" unless otherwise noted.

1. Cut pieces.

Outside: Cut two 10.5"x9.5" (top sections-Fabric A). Cut two 10.5"x3.5" (bottom sections -Fabric B).

Batting: Cut two 10.5"x13"

Inside: Cut two 10.5"x13.5" (Fabric C)

2. Make Outside Panels: Assemble one panel at a time. Sew one piece of Fabric A to one piece of Fabric B along 10.5" side. Press open. Top stitch close to seam. Place panel on one piece of batting. Be sure to line panel up with bottom edge of batting. Machine quilt in desired pattern. I simply stitched diagonal lines zigzagging back and forth across the panels. Repeat for second panel.

3. Assemble Outside: Place two panels right sides together and stitch down both sides and across bottom. Flatten corners and sew across to "box" the bottom of the bag. Clip excess fabric out of corner. IF YOU'VE NEVER "BOXED" THE CORNERS OF A BAG, YOU CAN SKIP THIS STEP...OR WAIT FOR A BOXED CORNER TUTORIAL COMING LATER THIS WEEK!

4. Assemble inside: Place two Fabric C panels right sides together. Sew down both sides and across bottom. Flatten corners and sew across to "box" the bottom. Be sure to sew at same distance from corner as you did for the outside. Clip excess.

5. Create straps: Cut two 3" wide LONG strips (I used remnants from my window treatments:). Drape these across your child (or yourself if you are making a bag for you) and cut them to the desired length. I left mine pretty long so the bag could grow with Belle. Place the strips right sides together and sew down both of the long edges. Turn strap right side out and press. Top stitch both edges.

6. Attach Strap: Place strap on one side of outer part of bag with right sides together and sew using 1/4" seam allowance. Flip strap to other side and repeat. If you pick the bag up by the handle you should be able to see what it will look like when it is finished. Be sure your strap isn't twisted!!!

7.. Assemble bag: Turn outer bag right side out and slip down inside inner bag. Right sides should be facing each other. Line up end seams and pin bags together all around top edge. Be sure strap is completely tucked down in between the layers. Sew around the edge leaving a 3" opening for turning. Turn bag right side out and stuff liner down inside outer bag. The liner is slightly taller than the outer bag so it should form a pretty little border almost like quilt binding around the top. Press a crease into this top edge. Fold the strap up into place and press well. Top stitch at top and bottom edges of liner border. You will be top stitching over the outside of your strap securing it in place.

DONE! Now go collect something:)

KCWC - Project #3

Wait! What happened to Project #2???

No you haven't missed anything, but a second Pintuck Sweatshirt in a lovely shade of orchid just didn't seem worthy of its own post, no matter how sweet the fabric color. So, we've moved on...

Remember those stacks of colorful squares that opened KCWC for me??? Well, here they are!

This was a total experiment! There are so many things here that I've never tried before.

1. Quilt as you go: I joined up with other quilters over here alamodefabric.blogspot.com for the second round of Quilt As You Go Challenge. Never have I ever, but it looked like fun. And since we have absolutely NO need for yet another quilt in this house I really wanted to do something that would be more practical.

2. Quilted Clothing: When I started quilting in the 80's, quilted clothing was not so lovely:) And for the last 20+ years it has left a bad taste in my mouth. But since Belle prefers to wear skirts every single day, I figured I had better start figuring out some warmer versions.

3. Machine Quilting: I'm a purist! Quilts are pieced by hand, quilted by hand, and bound by hand. Now don't get me wrong, I have occassionally pieced on the machine when I was working on a time-sensitive project....but QUILT on the machine...NEVER! But since this isn't actually a quilt, I don't feel as much guilt about breaking with tradition here.

So how'd I do it???

1. Quilt as you go blocks: I created a stack of blocks using the method described here http://sewtakeahike.typepad.com/sewtakeahike/my-patterns-and-tutorials.html

2. Then I stitched them all together to form the main panel of the skirt.

3. Quilt it - The skirt was already round, so this was a bit trickier, but still not too bad.

4. Bind the bottom edge - just like you bind a quilt.

5. Create a waistband - I made the wasitband separately then stitched it on...afterwards, I wished that I had done the extra seam allowance math to put in a French seam...then the skirt would have been totally reversible, but alas, I didn't, so I couldn't, so it isn't.

DONE!

Definitely NOT a project I would ever undertake again, but fun and interesting and worth the effort ONCE:) Will I ever "quilt as I go" again??? Probably! It's a great technique for small projects or a speedy method for large projects, as long as I can get past the machine-made aspect of the whole thing:)

Two days of KCWC still to come...lots of ideas, lots of new fabric choices, not enough hours in the day:) Wish me luck!

And how old are you today???

My baby is ONE...today! I'm really not sure where the last 365 days have gone. It seems like just minutes ago that her curly little head made its way into the world (with black hair!!!). And suddenly she is walking and talking and causing trouble. Whoever has the remote for our little world - will you please push rewind, or at the very least, pause? She's my last baby and I would really like some more time to enjoy her soapy smell, wobbly waddle, squishy thighs, and sweet giggles.

In honor of Bee's birthday - A BIRTHDAY DRESS! So your little gal can tell the world exactly "how many" she is:)

1. I used the Tuesday Top pattern from googooagogo.etsy.com. The body is a gorgeous turquoise damask print and has sweet grass green dot flutter sleeve.

2. For just a bit of additional interest, instead of using a solid panel for the back I added a narrow 1.5" strip of the sleeve fabric down the middle. To do this I cut a long strip of green and sewed it between two rectangles of blue. Then I made sure to center the pattern piece over the stripe before I cut the back panel.

3. When the dress was finished I added the applique "1." I played with the direction of the stripes and eventually fell in love with the diagonal placement...kind of a men's necktie style stripe:) I drew the number on paper, then created a mirror image. The easiest way for me to do this is to go over the outline in dark, heavy marker. Then I can just turn the paper over and trace the outline on the back of the paper. I traced the mirror image onto iron-on fusing paper, cut around the image and followed the package instructions to fuse it first to the wrong side of my fabric then to the dress. I used a wide zigzag to stitch around the edges.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEE!!!!!

Making Do Monday - Birthday Bash!

It's Making Do Monday again and we just happen to be celebrating Bee's 1st birthday, so I thought a Birthday Bash theme would be appropriate:)

On Wednesday of last week I realized that little Bee's birthday party was on Saturday and, well....ummmm....I was TOTALLY unprepared. I had made no plans, bought nothing, made nothing, and was basically in denial of the fact that my baby was turning 1. It was time to get busy!

Belle helped me decided on a theme. Can you guess????

DINOSAURS!

In our family, we don't do big parties with lots of little munchkins until the age of 3 (totally arbitrary rule that we created completely on accident, but we like it, so we're sticking with it), so I didn't need crazy numbers of things to occupy 20 little tyrannosauruses. Just a few party favors for the kids in our life who qualify as "family" even if they aren't actually related. The backyard, all the new toys, not to mention the pizza and cake would provide plenty of entertainment.

We decided that a dinosaur party needed to be green, but then added in a little pink to make it more girly. I raided the stash and came up with a pile of pink and green fabric that was taller than Bee. During nap on Wednesday I drew a few big dino pictures for Belle to color while I cut out all the things we would be making (more on the magic dino pics in another post) .

After 2 days of cutting, pinning, sewing and stitching we were able to put together an entire party with just the things on hand. That's Making Do at its best, if I do say so myself!

As always, if your stash isn't as generous as mine, all the directions below include general guidelines for what you might need to buy.

Table Bunting:

You will need - lots of pieces of fabric (you can make as many flags as you want in as many different fabrics as you want...mine has 15 flags of 15 different fabrics all backed in white), a long piece of ribbon

1. Create a triangle pennant pattern. I did this with a large sheet of paper. Fold the paper in half hot dog style but crease only about one inch at the edge of the paper. Make a small mark at the very edge of the paper right on your crease. That mark will be the bottom point of your pennant. Then using a straight edge, draw a line connecting that point to each of the top corners of the paper. Cut the excess smaller triangles off and discard (or give to your child to color).

2. Trace your pattern onto the backsides of your fabric pieces. You will need TWO triangles for each flag. You can make the front and back match or pick coordinating fabric for the back sides (I just used white).

3. Place each pair of traingles right sides together and pin down the two long sides.

4. Sew down the two long sides of each traingle, then clip the point at the bottom off (be careful not to clip your stitches) and turn the flag right side out.

5. Press the flag and, if necessary, trim so that the top (RAW) edge is straight.

6. Line the flags up and put them in the order you want them to hang. My flags are all about 1 inch apart. Place the ribbon over the top edge of the flags and pin in place. Be sure that the raw edges do not show above the edge of the ribbon.

7. Use a wide zigzag stitch to sew each flag to the ribbon. If you are using satin ribbon, as I was, it is easier to sew each flag on separately and clip the threads between each one. If you are using grograin ribbon you can sew one long stitch line down the entire ribbon.

8. Be sure to clip any loose threads or strings from the raw edges.

Your bunting can be secured with packing tape to your table, high chair, or mantel. It can also be tied to deck rails, fence posts etc. for an outdoor party.

Gift Bags:

You will need - large rectangle of fabric (2 per bag), ribbon or cord

1. Decide how large your finished bag needs to be. Mine are 12x16, but you will not likely need one that large for most types of party favors.

2. Add seam allowances...this is a bit of tricky math so I'm going to show you mine:

a. Double the length 16x2=32

b. Add 2 inches to the length for foldover 32+2=34

c. Add 1/2" to the length for seam allowance 34+1/2=34.5

d. Add 1 to the width for seam allowance 12+1=13

e. Cutting measurements are now 13x34.5.

3. Cut TWO rectangles for each bag.

4. Place the two rectangles right sides together and using a 1/4" seam allowance, sew all the way around the edges leaving a 4" opening for turning.

5. Clip the corners and turn the bag right side out. Press flat and be sure to press the raw edges of the opening under so they will be sewn closed in the next step. Fold the short ends down 1" to form the ribbon casing and press in place. Then fold the bag in half hamburger style and press...you will now see what your finished bag will look like.

6. Sew across the bottom edges of the ribbon casing. Then, using a 1/4" seam allowance, sew down the two sides of the bag from the bottom edge of the ribbon casing to the bottom of the bag. DO NOT SEW THE RIBBON CASING CLOSED!

7. Cut a piece of ribbon that is the width of your bag + 6 x 2 (12+6=18, 18x2=36, so cut 36" of ribbon). Use a safety pin to thread it through the ribbon casing. Tie the two ends of the ribbon together in a small knot. If you are adding a bag tag - wait to tie the ends together until after you have put it on.

Bag Tags:

You will need - small scraps of felt, embroidery thread, small piece of ribbon

1. Draw the shape of your tag on a piece of paper and cut it out. Use this to trace a front and back for each tag you want to make. Mine were dinos, of course.

2. Cut out an initial for each tag if desired.

3. Stitch the initial (or other design) to the front of the tag. I used a back stitch, but you can just use a regular running stitch if you want.

4. Put the front and back together WRONG SIDES TOGETHER. Fold a small piece of ribbon in half and insert the raw edge end between the two layers of felt at the top of the tag. Pin in place. Stitch around the outside edge being careful to use neat, even stitches.

5. Slip the ribbon loop over the ribbon of your gift bag and then tie the bag ribbon ends together.

Softies:

You will need - fabric scraps, felt scraps, stuffing, embroidery thread

1. Design a simple outline on paper. Cut out your pattern and use it to cut two pieces for each softie. Use felt to design embellishments if desired (eyes, spots, spikes etc.). You will need to stitch all embellishments to each piece before putting the softie together. Things like plates or spikes will be sewn in during the final construction step. You can also embroider eyes, patterns etc. at this point.

2. Place the two pieces right sides together and pin. If you are adding spikes they will need to point down into your sandwich and be tucked in completely before sewing. Sew all the way around your softie leaving a 2-3 inch opening to turn.

3. Turn your softie right side out (your spikes will stick up now) and stuff well. Fold the edges of the opening under and slip stitch the opening closed.

Applique T-Shirt: I decided to try to protect the party dress (I'll do a dress post later...I think you'll LOVE it!) from the mounds of cake icing, so I put this together for Bee to wear while she ate her cake.

You will need - a oneise or tee (I keep a stock of the plain white Carters onesies in my stash, but you might need to buy one of these), fabric scraps, iron-on fusing paper (available at craft stores)

1. Draw out your design on plain paper. Be sure that it fits on your tee.

2. Trace each individual piece on the iron-on paper. This will actually end up as a mirror-image, so if you are doing a name or something else that is direction specific, be sure that you create a mirror image of what you want the finished project to look like.

3. Cut around each piece...you don't need to cut on the lines at this point, just cut close to your piece.

4. Place each piece on the WRONG side of the fabric that you have chosen for that part. Follow the package instructions to iron onto the fabric. Now you will need to craefully cut all of the pieces out on the lines you drew.

5. Peel the backs off of all of your pieces and arrange them on your tee. Follow the package instructions again to iron the pieces to your tee.

6. Use a straight or zigzag stitch to sew around the edges of all of your pieces. When you need to make a sharp turn, be sure that your needle is all the way down in your fabric, then lift the presser foot, turn your fabric, and put your presser foot back down before continuing to sew. If you have a lot of small pieces it is easier to use a straight stitch. Large, simple pieces look cute with a zigzag.

TIP - you can use the hand wheel on your sewing machine to sew one stitch at time in small sections if necessary.

Add some ballons and a few pizzas and have a blast at your birthday bash!

Making Do Monday - Beads in Our Hair

Belle loves hair clips, pony tails, and all things bling for her mane. But, the little snap clippies from the discount store are starting to feel like "baby" clips, so we felt an upgrade was in order.

These beaded bobby pins are perfect for tucking those bangs back out of her face (where they are 99% of the time since she refuses to let me tuck her hair behind her ears!).

Super simple....and yep, we're making do, so we found all of our supplies in the playroom closet!

You'll need:

thin beading wire

bobby pins

small beads

wire cutters or scissors

those round nose beading pliers are super helpful, but not necessary

For the sake of easy directions, let's call the rounded end of the bobby pin the "back". And the end that you open up to slip your hair in is the "front".

Twist the wire around the back end of the pin (be sure you are only twisting around the ridged prong of the pin...don't tie your pin closed with wire please) 5 times. Slip a bead on to the wire and push it all the way down to the twists you just made. Pull the wire tight and twist it around the ridged prong 3 more times. Repeat for a total of 4-5 beads. Finish off by twisting around the pin 5 more times. Clip your wire and pinch down the sharp end. Voila! Big girl hair accessory complete.

Making Do Monday - Fleece Hat and Scarf

Introducing: Making Do Mondays on Belle + Bee

Making Do Monday is all about making do with what you have. This is a tough concept for me!!!! When I dream up a new project, the first thing I do is plan a trip to the "projects" store (Belle's name for our local craft and fabric stores). My goal for this new feature on Belle + Bee is that I will learn to make-do with the gazillion yards of fabric that I already have. Now if you stash isn't quite as massive as mine, don't worry...all the projects can be completed with purchased materials. But I would encourage you to try to make-do with me, as much as possible:)

Each week (I HOPE!) you will find a tutorial for a simple project that I made totally out of things I found in my house and stash.

First up...Fleece Hat and Scarf! Belle got a new coat for fall, and as I was actually on my way to the projects store to get yarn to crochet a hat, I remembered the pile of fleece I had collected a couple of years ago. And Making Do Monday began:)

On a difficulty scale of 1-4 thimbles, this is about a 0.5:)

You will need a large piece of fleece fabric and some thread. This can be made by hand or machine. Assuming you don't have a large box of fleece in your closet like me, then purchasing a yard of fleece will be more than enough for an adult-size hat and scarf.

HAT:

Cut the selvage edge off of the fleece. This is your new measuring tape (I was too lazy to go dig one out of the garage).

Measure the circumference of your head (or the recipient's head) at the widest point. Snip the selvage at that length so that you now have a strip that is exactly the same size as your noggin.

Now measure from your brow bone up to the crown of your head, add 4 inches and snip another piece of selvage.

Now use your two measurements to cut TWO rectangles of fleece. Make sure that the stretchy direction of the fleece goes with the circumference measurement (fleece only stretches in one direction and you want that to go around your head).

Fold each rectangle in half hamburger-style (you are going to match up the height-measurement sides of the rectangle). Sew the edges together using 3/8" seam allowance. You will now have 2 cylinders that you could wear like a stovepipe hat on your melon.

Turn one cylinder right side out and slip it down into the other so that right-sides are together. Match up the seams and pin the bottom edged together. Sew all the way around the bottom edge of the cylinders, connecting the two together.

Flip the cylinder so that wrong-sides are together. You can now put your hat on...it's just missing the fun fluff at the top.

Cut a very narrow strip of fleece (about 3/8" wide and 12" long). Gather the top of the hat, wrap the strip around it and tie several very tight knots.

Use scissors to fringe the top edges of the hat. Each piece of fringe on the sample hat is about 1/2" wide, but you can make them any width you would like.

DONE!

SCARF:

Cut a long strip of fleece, approximately 6" wide (you really could make the scarf any width you like). For this toddler-size scarf, I just cut across the entire width of the fleece, which I think is 58". So, my scarf is 6"x58", but you could use any measurement that fits your fabric and your recipient.

If you want an adult-size scarf, or super long scarf, or you just have a smaller piece of fleece, then just cut two lengths and sew them together.

Use scissors to create fringe along both ends. You can make the fringe as long and wide as you like. Mine is 1/2" wide x 4" long.

DONE!

PLEASE DO NOT EVER USE PICS OF MY KIDDOS!!!! I really don't like to post them at all, but on occassion it seems necessary for a post. I love them and want to protect them, so please respect this request!