Sew It To Me

Christmas Mice

2011-12-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

Well, lots of changes in my life and Eva's life . . . Eva is busy, busy being a full time working mom. And I know how that goes as well. I recently began teaching at a private school. I really, really love it. And the best part, I am teaching my son! It's more work than I ever imagined, but well worth it. And I am already looking forward to my daughter joining us next year.

And since I am teaching now, I am on Christmas break. Which means I have had some time to do a fun craft with my kids. Hopefully I'll be able to do more over the next week and a half and post them as well. I sure do miss crafting and sewing.

Our Christmas Mice

The Whole Family

Mom and Dad

What You Need:

This project was extremely easy, but a lot of fun. All it required was:

the template
fabric scissors
fabric glue
a pencil
lots of felt
and a few candy canes

The Kiddos

Where You Can Find It:

The complete instructions along with the template can be found here on Martha's website.
I think we'll be eating the candy canes Christmas Eve and leaving the little mice empty so Santa can fill them. Then we'll do it again next year. I do believe a new tradition has started.

Merry Christmas!!

Urgent Need for help in San Diego!

2011-04-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

My grandfather has been missing over 48 hours and spanning three nights. Here is a link and today they are doing a larger search in the oceanside/san diego area to hopefully find him today. My grandmother is losing hope and it is so hard to watch her faith in him coming home disapear. Please re link pass the word around to all you know. Prayers and volunteers for Robert "Bob" Worden to be found. He sufferes from dementia and has difficulty communicating. He also has no ID on him and was wearing house slippers. Here is a link to the news stories that have been broadcasted on the local news the last 24 hours.

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/apr/25/search-continues-missing-oceaniside-man/
&
http://www.10news.com/news/27653690/detail.html

(thanks for all the support for our family, I know this isn't sewing related but it is another medium that we can use to get the word out)

Cute DYI & Awesome Giveaway

2011-03-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

My dear friend just posted her first giveaway. And I might add, it is absolutely adorable. Even better . . . she posts instructions on how to make one of these little beauties yourself!

Check it out here.

This woman is seriously stylish, so don't miss out!

Slowly getting back...

2011-02-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

Wow. I haven't done much since July and I miss sewing. I made some great last minute projects before Ed's early arrival (nursing cover, car seat cover, burp cloths) and then went into a sewing hiatus. I love being a mom and it has been quite a journey these last 6 1/2 months. Our Ed has had a rough start but he is healthy now and has a wonderful and happy disposition. Instead of sewing my life has beeen doctors, insurance and now baby food making outside of working full time. Thankfully since we have figured out and had resolutions to Ed's issues I am getting back to sewing and will soon have my own sewing space again (did I mention we moved Jan 1?)

1st project will be to finish his baby quilt since he is a blanket baby. He loves having a blanket to snuggle with at night.

2nd is the baby care package for the newest baby to join our extended family. Our goal is to have cute boy things to send by May for his June arrival.

3rd is going to be fun. One of my girls (okay young single adult from church) is going to get married in July and wanted me to add sleeves to her wedding dress. I am anti adding sleeves, especially with her style of dress so we are going to be doing a fun jacket/cover-up. Her dress is beautiful and I have the perfect cover-up idea that I know she will love. I will be sure to post pictures! I am especially excited about this since I have had 4 of my girls get married from July to January and between the pregnancy/bedrest and Ed's health issues I have had to decline making wedding dresses/bridesmaid gowns and even missed their weddings :(

So by March 1st I hope to be back to being a sewing queen and Sew It To Me more often.

PS I get to see my Sew It To Me partner next weekend! It will be awesome to see her again (last time was October 2010)!

Long and Lost

2011-02-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

I'm not so sure anyone will even notice if I've made it back to the blog world. It has been so very long!

If you are reading this . . . HI!!

Yes, it has been a long time and yes, Eva and I have been lost in our lives trying to adjust to children and being working moms. It is not an easy thing and a lot of the time you want to take for yourself to do things like sew, just never happens.

But sometimes it does happen! And that is why I am finally doing a post.

Believe it or not, I have not sewn in over six months. I even put away my sewing machine because it was just taking up space and not being used. Perhaps it would be a different story if I had a craft room, but it was chilling in my front room. It was a sad day.

But I decided the other day to rearrange my bedroom so I can squeeze it in there. My husband spends a lot of time on the computer and I can only watch so much TV, so getting out the sewing machine was my solution! It has been a good solution because I finally started my first quilt that I began oh, almost a year ago or so.

However it has evolved from a toddler quilt to a quilted duvet cover. Now, I don't even know if there is such a thing, but I am making one. Hopefully it turns out. I alread have five rows done and love it. The sewing part seems to be the easy part. Laying it out took three hours!

I can hardly wait to see the finished product. And I promise I will post a picture when it is finished. And then I'll need to find another project to work on. I may not be able to sew something start to finish in a day now, but I can work on it over time.

Patience. :) I'm always learning about it.

Blog Leave

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

Eva and I have decided to take a "blog leave" for a month or two. With the birth of her first (and extremely adorable) baby, she has her hands full.

As for me, I recently starting working from home four hours a day and that keeps me very busy; especially when you throw my two children and housework into the mix.

We are both very sad we don't have the time for our sewing hobby, but hopefully life will slow down, or at least run smoother in a few months.

I surely hope I will find some time to get my sewing machine out. This blog has gotten me over my fear of sewing. I don't want to quit and be too afraid to start up again.

On pins and needles until next time,

Vanessa & Eva

Introducing . . .

2010-07-29T09:30:00.001-07:00

Announcing . . .

2010-07-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

The birth of Eva's little baby boy.

He was born this morning at 4:45 am and weighed in at 6 pounds 12 ounces and was 20.5 inches long.

Skirt-a-licious

2010-07-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Check out this skirt by Keeping It Simple. Isn't it so cute?!

It was her first skirt and I think it turned out wonderful.

I love her blog name too. I forget to keep things simple way too often.

You can view the full tutorial here.

Vanessa

Wrap Away!

2010-07-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Star from A Load of Craftt has a great no sew version of a baby wrap. I love it and am looking forward to no bed rest so I can go out and get some fabric to try it out.

If you continue farther on the post she has a sewn version as well if you want to use two different fabrics. Check it out!

Family Activity+Sewing=Perfect!

2010-07-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Katie from Hippos & Dinosaurs posted a great tutorial that is perfect for a family activity and finishes as a simple sewing project that will create a lasting memory and useful item for the home. What is it? Napkins of course!

I am excited to do this with our little boy when he gets older. For now it will make a fun activity with the husband.

Thanks Katie!

Pillows made easy

2010-07-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

Maria from Yay, I Made It! sent us a great link to one of her home decor projects-10 Minute Pillow Covers. I love easy to sew projects and this is a great way to redecorate on a budget and fast. I am going to share it with my mother-in-law since tehy are redecorating her front room and they have a need for new pillows!

Thanks Maria!

Happy Monday!

2010-07-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, I am back. Well I hope to be back full time if this baby wants to cooperate. So far I have spent the last 2 weeks on bed rest and this Friday after my appointment we will see if our little boy is going to still come a few weeks early. It has been an interesting two weeks that have consisted of complete laziness since sewing causes my feet to swell up horribly and too many trips to the hospital and doctors office.

Before all of this I did sew a few projects. Here is one of my favorite. The third sleeper is actually in our hospital bag in the back of the car so I will post a picture of our little guy in it after he is born.

I used the pattern from This Momma Makes Stuff Two of them I added an inch to the neck since I wanted the option to use them longer than just for newborns.

Have a fun Monday and check us out this week for some fun posts.

Busy Bees

2010-07-13T13:15:00.000-07:00

We have been crazy busy here at Sew It To Me.

Summer and blogging just does not mix sometimes.

Eva put up a lovely picture of us in our last post. I'm so NOT photogenic. Plus it doesn't help when you are talking to explain the uses of a ring sling. My baby shower gift for Eva was the ring sling. Now does the picture make sense?

My little man finally lost that first tooth and the Tooth Fairy Pouch worked like a charm. Now if I could just get him to give it back to me!

Vanessa

A Peak into Our Lives

2010-07-11T15:17:00.000-07:00

This is what Vanessa and I did this weekend...

I have to say I am a bit bummed to realize we didn't get a cuter picture of the two of us together...maybe Vanessa will post the one of us from this morning....maybe not or I should say hopefully not. I do have some cute ones of us separate. Being limited in movement makes it harder to make sure you take photos with people.

It was a blast having her down for the weekend for the D family reunion and she was very helpful in helping us get ready for our little one's arrival since it may be sooner than we expected. I will let her explain the picture and yes that is Vanessa's baby but not our Sew It To Me Vanessa :)

Happy Sewing Everyone.

I would love to see projects you have completed since I am a bit limited right now in how much I sew and do right now!

Think Pink!

2010-07-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Here is something we received via email this week we wanted to share with our readers.

"GET STITCHING FOR PINK:

SVP WORLDWIDE INVITES SEWERS TO START STITCHING

TO HELP FIGHT BREAST CANCER

July 6, 2010 - SVP Worldwide, one of the world’s largest sewing machine companies and source of the SINGER®, HUSQVARNA VIKING® and PFAFF® sewing machines collections, invites sewers and embroiderers across the country and around the world to use their skills to help raise awareness and raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation through STITCHING FOR PINK.

STITCHING FOR PINK is a global online campaign to raise breast cancer awareness and help fund a cure through embroidery. By donating $5, you become a member of STITCHING FOR PINK and will receive ten exclusive embroidery designs - along with complete instructions - that have a breast cancer awareness message or theme. The $5 donation will be given directly to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The STITCHING FOR PINK awareness and fundraising campaign will culminate on October 30, the final day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For more detailed information, please visit stitchingforpink.org.

As a proud supporter of this global initiative, SVP Worldwide has created a very special free, pink-themed embroidery project called “Making a Difference” which will be available on MyEmbroideries.com throughout the month of July. The pattern incorporates words of hope and wisdom as well as beautiful pink embellishments. You can download this inspirational wall-hanging project at http://www.myembroideries.com/MyEmbroideries/stitch4pink/default.aspx .

“Myembroideries.com is the most comprehensive embroidery design shop in the world,” said Ann Bragg, Vice President of Aftermarket and Brand Extension Sales for SVP Worldwide. “We are hoping that with the participation of our passionate users, we can build support for STITCHING FOR PINK and its important mission and have an impact on the fight to cure breast cancer.”

****

Breast cancer is something that hits close to home for me and I am glad we are able to share this new site and information with our readers.

PS This week has been interesting and we do have a great spotlight planned but my body has decided that is doesn't like being pregnant anymore so after a few fun days and hospital trips I am on bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy = the blog has taken a back seat during the adventure. Now that I am just home I can spend a bit more time on it. Here's hoping to him staying in for 2 more weeks!

Stay Tuned...

2010-07-05T06:32:00.000-07:00

This week we have our monthly spotlight so stay tuned.

Hint: it is all about a goal a day....

Be sure to check it out as we are making it our main post for the first few days since we love her site and want everyone to check it out and love it too!

P.S. Next month will be an extra special spotlight so don't forget to always look for the 1st Monday of the month to see what sites we are blog stalking and getting to the the authors of!

Diaper Holder Refashioned to Dress!

2010-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have never done a refashion. As a matter of fact, my clothing making skills consist of sewing one toddler skirt. But I still took on the task, so if I did anything completely wrong, please don't judge.

This beauty used to be a diaper stacker.

I forgot to take any before pictures, but here is the process.

I pulled out my seam ripper and took the bottom out of the diaper stacker.

Here is what it looked like after that first step. I was lucky the top was already sewn.

The sides needed to be taken in, so I cinched them to the desired tightness and put a pin in.

I flipped it wrong side out, smoothed out the fabric and pinned the sides.

Then I sewed a straight line down both sides making new side seams.

From the excess fabric I seam ripped from the bottom and cut from the newly seamed sides, I made a ruffle by sewing them all together and then completed it with one long basting stitch.

Then I attached it to the dress and began sewing.

Voila!

One obsolete diaper stacker turned dress.

I love this new little dress!

Dollar Swimsuit Dressed Up

2010-07-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

It is swim season in Las Vegas. Seriously, if you have ever been here you would understand why residents almost LIVE in the pool. It is HOT, HOT, HOT.

On the way back from Regal's Free Family Movies (if you haven't heard about this, click here), my car said it was 110 degrees outside . . . and is will only get hotter next month.

Back to swimming.

Here is an extremely adorable and very inexpensive idea by Big Sis Lil Sis.
She took a bathing suit from the dollar store and added her own embellishments.

You could seriously have one for each day of the week and it would still only be $7!

I REALLY like the ice cream cone and what girl doesn't adore ruffles!

"I'm Buying a Tooth!" Tutorial

2010-06-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

My son started losing his first tooth a few weeks ago.

(Someone please tell me, how long does it take for those things to fall out?!)

Well, a few days ago, I started panicking about his tooth. It is going to get lost under his pillow and I will be a failure as the Tooth Fairy!

Do you realize how unbelievably SMALL baby teeth are???

So, I came up with a "Tooth Fairy Pouch" he can put his tooth in. And it even has room for the Tooth Fairy to slip in some money. Whew. Problem solved.

I'll be doing a "Tooth Fairy Pouch" tutorial today instead of Wallet Wednesday. Hope you don't mind.

I am buying a tooth after all!

Here is what I whipped up in 20 minutes with the fabric I had on hand (everything else is too girly):

Start with two pieces of fabric:

1 3 x 4

1 3 x 5

(I cut mine to 3 x 6 in this picture and had to start over. Oops!)

Cut out a T and an F.

Place on the smaller piece of fabric and sew on.

Sew a 1/4 in. hem on the top of both pieces.

Place the longer piece of fabric down first with the shorter piece on top of it, right sides together.

Make sure to get this next part right or your flap won't be in the right place.

Fold the bottom fabric down so it is even with the top piece, then put it underneath the top "TF" layer.

Now sew a 1/4 in. seam around all three sides. Make sure you don't sew the top closed!

Cut the corners and flip!

And there you have it! My first tutorial!

There are so many possibilities with this little pouch.

I thought it would even make a great gift card cover!

And for a little girl . . . don't even get me started.

I had to keep it simple for my little boy or else I'd hear it from Hubby. Oh men!

Hopefully that little tooth will make its debue soon. And now it won't get lost. :)

The Posh Stroller Cover

2010-06-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

It must be something great if we noticed it AND we had a reader email us about it.

You can't miss this "rolly stroller" recover by Random Charm.

This stroller is now the bomb. (I love 80's slang.)

See the before and more after shots HERE.

Thanks for emailing us Mindy!

Sew For Me

2010-06-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

After sewing two days in a row for the Cinderella play, I had to sew something for me.

I pulled out a project I started a few months ago and finished it. I have so many unfinished projects, but don't we all?

Here is . . .

The Phoebe Bag

(I could not get this to link right, so here it is: http://artsycraftybabe.typepad.com/tutorials/phoebe_bag.pdf)

I also added a lace flower for some pizazz. Lace flowers are so bee-autiful.

Fabric look familiar? It's from the whirly skirt I made awhile ago. And it's from my childhood. I love that my mom still has all the fabric she used to make me clothes out of.

This bag was a little different from others I have sewn, but I love the finished product.

Now I will be sporting a new purse. :)

Yes, it makes me happy.

And I would suggest putting interfacing on both the liner and exterior. Just in case you want to make one.

And then I kept sewing . . .

But you will have to wait until Friday to see.

Here's a hint:

Diaper Stacker/Dress

I'm pretty excited about it!!

Wreathes aren't just for Christmas anymore!

2010-06-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

My mother-in-law is the decorating and craft queen. She decorates for each season. With many of the kids and grandkids living farther away it is harder each year to encourage her to continue the tradition.

When I saw this wreathe created by Amanda at Every Craft Endeavor it reminded me I need to waddle on over and help her get her summer decorations up. This project is sow simple I can even do it and maybe our home will be a bit more festive now too!

There is still time to make one yourself as 4th of July is just over a week away!

Bucket, Bucket, Where is a Bucket?

2010-06-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

At Pippijoe Diary of course! We love Caitlin's tutorial on how to make your own fabric bucket!

I can think of so many great ways to use this.

What would you use it for?

Bees oh My!

2010-06-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Originally I had planned on something for Graduates since it is June but our house has become a beehive-literally-the last 5 days so today is bees.

Here are some cute versions of Bee items to remind me that they aren't horrible bugs that keep me out of my house but cute and useful too!

Who wouldn't want a bee like this in their home? I love the Miss Bumble Bee Tutu from Strawberrie Rose.

This hive and bees are adorable and safe-created by Who knew that there was a way to play with bees without being stung? Check out more items from Mahalo

This bee inspired diaper cover and headband is a cute way to "bee" adorable, thanks to Stacy Bayless.

Applique bees are "sew" cute and not a worry about being stung. Here is a cute shirt by The Rocking Pony.

I feel a little bit better about bees after today's Wallet Wednesday.

After 5 days, over 100 bees in your house, two hives and two trips by a pest control company it makes for a grumpy husband and a evicted pregnant wife. Thankfully it should be over today and bees are cute - if sewn :)

Too many toys...

2010-06-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Judi from Plumtickled posted a great idea for storing her daughters toys! It is "sew" cute and perfect for any purse hoarder too! I wonder if the husband would mind purses in our son's bedroom, maybe if I say they are man bags...

I am looking forward to the tutorial!

Sewing for Cinderella

2010-06-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sewing for a theater production has turned out to be quite a bit different then I expected. There's no need for little detail embellishments because no one will see them and you really have to think about what it will look like from the audience.

You may not be interested, but I'm still going to post pictures of the finished products with musings of the process.

Number One

"Cinderella's Apron"

The costume designer wanted the apron to be blue. I already had the perfect fabric in my stash, but I had to come up with a design. So, after consulting with Eva, I was ready to get to work.

I used the Quick Apron Tutorial from Make It and Love It and added a few embellishments.

In my mind, Cinderella's apron needed to look worn. At the same time, it should seem like she took care of the apron the best she could. So, I added a few patches for the worn look and a pocket outlined with cream and topped with a ruffle for the "I try to make it look pretty" look.

I didn't hem the bottom in hopes that it would fray, but when it didn't, I had to take scissors and cut a tear. That was really hard to do. Even while sewing, I didn't catch some material in the pocket hem to give it a tattered look. It was almost unbearable for the perfectionist in me to not go back and fix everything, but I think it turned out great for its purpose.

Cinderella in her dressing room.

An even closer look . . .

Number Two

"The Fairy Godmother's Bag"

After I offered to make Cinderella an apron, the costume designer asked if I could also make the Fairy Godmother a bag for her wand. As soon as she asked, I knew I was going to make the Hobo Sack from MADE. It's the fourth one I have sewn and I love it more and more each time.

But this time, I was going to be using organza and taffeta. Yikes! I have NEVER, EVER sewn with these materials before. . . EVER. (Did you get that? Just wanted to make it that part clear.) Time to call in my moral support- Mom.

Before I headed down to my trusty sewing companion's house, I fished through my sewing box for some embellishments. I couldn't spruce up Cinderella's apron, but I could definitely spruce up the Fairy Godmother's bag and make it fun. I had bought a pack of clear, sparkly bobbles (that is what I call them anyway) awhile ago to use the round ones for a fabric necklace. A few of the left over tear drops would be perfect.

Sewing with organza wasn't too hard. It was sewing the taffeta to the taffeta. Slippery!

But, I was remembering the 80's and thinking maybe it is time to bring taffeta back. It's kinda cool.

We made the Hobo Sack bigger to fit the wand and only put one grosgrain strap through the casing. So, on one side is the strap with an added bow and on the side are two bobbles.

I LOVE IT! And am secretly jealous of the Fairy Godmother, but I really don't know what I'd use the bag for . . . church maybe???

With the photo glow effect . . .

And without in all its shiny taffeta glory.

To finish. . .

A picture of my little mouse with the Fairy Godmother.

Tonight, I finally get to sit and watch the whole show with 12 of my family members.

I am so excited. It is going to be so much fun.

One more week!

No Headboard? No more!

2010-06-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

We are looking into upgrading from a full size bed to a queen. Yes we still have a full. If we do though we need to get a new frame. Thanks to Stephanie from Made By Stephie we could create a unique headboard ourselves.

Isn't it simple and classic?

Father's Friday

2010-06-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

When asking Mike what I should blog about his response was, "me of course" I married a great guy and he is going to be an amazing dad. I have truly loved watching him get more excited about becoming a father as the pregnancy has progressed. :)

So for this Fun Friday the Feature is Father's. I have loved reading the blogs and seeing their thoughts on fatherhood/memories and craft ideas to celebrate the holiday.

Here are a few of my favorites so far.

A Father's Day Memory by Family Volley

Shaving Cream Painting by Little Birdie Secrets

Napkin Shirt by How About Orange (my M-I-L will love this)

Father's Day Pictures by Happy Together

Rubiks Cube by Obsessively Stitching

Father's Day Room Service Tag by 733blog

Homemade Paper Pad by Vanilla Joy

What are yours?

Apron to the rescue!

2010-06-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Vanessa is still alive :) Her schedule is kind of crazy so it is weird not to hear from her more often but the play is going great AND she is sewing for it. Thanks to Make It and Love It she found a perfect pattern for Cinderella's apron.

Check out the tutorial HERE.

Remember Monkey's 3rd birthday and the cute monkey bag?

This time the same pattern used from MADE will be used for the Fairy Godmother's wand bag!

I am "sew" excited to see the finished items!

All about Dad!

2010-06-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today's Wallet Wednesday has gone to the Dad's.

Here are a few cute gift ideas that I thought were unique and there still is time to shop for this weekend!

If the Dad you know is an avid reader (like my husband, brother, in-laws and dad) this Fabric Patchwork Bookmark from Soft & Cozy is a perfect gift option.

I love how unique the angled wallet from Archer Ave is! Perfect for Dad's who like to keep things simple!

For the Father's out there who love the fun shirts here is a take on the matching ties. Isn't Simple Joys Studio's Matching Ties shirt for Dad & son cute!

Here is a great option for a unique Father's Day Card. I love the details 30one adds-down to the keys and masculine buttons. They even offer to insert a custom photo!

Happy Shopping!

***

Father and Mother Days have always been celebrated in our home by honoring the people in our life that have been an example to us, whether or not they have children, and especially those we love who have passed on. We wish all men a Happy Father's Day and I hope they realize that they have made a difference in at least one person's life and someone out there is honoring them.

To all out there whose father's who have passed on they are remembered and deeply loved, their example lives on in your family. Last to those who don't know or haven't the relationship with your father, this weekend I challenge you to honor those in your life who gave you the example you needed-male or not.

Please leave a comment to honor that someone or many that you think of on Father's Day!

I think of my dad, grandfather's, uncles and husband and am grateful for the examples they have been to me.

Applique My Style

2010-06-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love these applique letters!

They have their own unique personality. They look super easy to sew on and the final product is so fun!

I'd love them on a shirt.

I'd love them just to flirt.

I'd love them on a purse.

I'd love them on a murse.

(man purse or male nurse- you pick.)

For more endless possibilities, suggestions and ideas visit We Wilsons.

When blogging enters the real world...

2010-06-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love it when I/we get to meet the fabulously talented people behind the sites we love and share with you. This weekend at a friend's 30th birthday celebration I was able to meet Tasha from Creation Corner!

I mentioned my Christmas gifts list and one of them is the guitar strap from Cheryl at A Pretty Cool Life. I love it and it will make a great gift for a few of our family members.

Shhh.... just don't tell them!

Be sure to check out Tasha's site too. It was so fun to meet a fellow blogger in person :)

********

Vanessa is in the last 2 weeks of rehearsal for the play her son is in so she may do a quick post here and there but until the play is over she is taking a break from blogging to save her energy and sanity :) I can't wait to see pictures and hear all the stories from rehearsals!

Now Shoes for Mom!

2010-06-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

I hear often to always take time for myself once our baby comes so this post is for all moms of all kinds today.

So in time for summer check out the great shoe refashioning by Cheri at I am Momma Hear Me Roar.

I am itching to do this to my shoes-esp since new clothes aren't in the budget right now.

Friday Already?

2010-06-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

What can I say? Today's post is just a thought on another week has flown by. I wish I could say I have been sewing again and then show pictures but I need to pull my machine out from its nook and attach the new needle first. To take pictures I need to go out and buy a new memory card since in my nesting phase I lost ours.

I still need to find a way to post pictures of the SINGER project. That is what I will add to the husbands to-do list this weekend. New memory card!

Each week is flying by so quickly. Sometimes it goes by so quickly, yet somedays seem so slow. I officially hit 30 weeks today and have 9 week left before I take maternity leave. Any advice for me on the last few weeks? I already lost my brain as you can see-I forgot to figure out a cool post for today!

Happy Friday and I hope everyone has a great weekend-esp two of my nieces! Boo is 7 today and Lily is 3 on Sunday!

Booties for Baby

2010-06-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

I just love looking at baby shoes. They are so small and cute. If we were having a girl she would be a shoe hoarder instead of a purse hoarder...

Here is a tutorial by Aimee at HomeSpun Threads for her Kimono Shoes.

Aren't they cute!

It's Swim Season!

2010-06-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

June is here and the weather is warming up just in time to got to the pool or beach if you are lucky enough to live close to one.

What else is perfect to take but towels and with so many people there here are some unique ones to check out and maybe even give you the itch to shop for new ones this year!

The Spirit of Giving shop has cute personalized hooded towels, perfect for little ones.

Camela Sky Designs has a perfect towel wrap for mom's by the pool or taking advantage of a spa day.

These appliqué towels from Easy Edges Studio remind me of Gram's personalized towels she made her grandson's each year.

I love the many different animal towels from Rubadub Buddies but this Dinosaur towel is a favorite of course!

Happy Shopping!

Reupholstering made easy...

2010-06-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

At least I think Lil Blue Boo makes it look easy! Easy enough for me to try it. She turned this...

into this!

We were given a rocker with an ottoman but the two don't match. I normally wouldn't bother but this is a great first project to try my hand at recovering it! Check out her tutorial HERE.

Anyone else reupholstered furniture or make covers? I would love to see pictures of your finished projects!

Maxi-mize

2010-06-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

Before my trip to Texas (which was a blast!) I was a sewing queen and finished a few of my many sewing projects.

That was until my needle broke and I found out I was out of spares. It had to happen at 10:30 PM on a Saturday so of course no place to buy any then or the next day (we don't shop on Sundays). I was pretty bummed but a friend who has a Bernina gave me an address and a spare so once I can kick this glucose test induced exhaustion I am going to be back on the sewing saddle.

Here is one of my favorites I did finish. I have worn them each at least once and I love how comfy they are.

I did take an easier route and buy the fabric pre-smocked at JoAnn's.

All I did was sew the side seam and had a dress. It is perfect to fit my ever growing baby bump.

This Friday marks 30 weeks along so I better get a move on and finish the quilt (I will do a tutorial of my pattern as I go along to share with you) as well as the other cute projects...

Anyone finish a project lately? Or starting a new one just in time for summer?

101!

2010-06-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Today is our 101st post. Crazy how time flies by!

Vanessa has had a busy week so please excuse the lack of a No Sew Saturday post and quieter week on the blog.

Between her husband graduating with his BA, son finishing his first year of school AND planning the "Kinder Garden" Party for his class, finish it off with him participating in the local production of Roger & Hammerstein's Cinderella she is one busy mom! All she needs now is something to take her little girl to ;) Well not really. At least there is a vacation in the plans this summer to give her a fun break.

Don't worry, we are all still here finding great ideas and sewing. Next week will be a fun one.

Fun Cleaning

2010-06-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

This is completely unrelated to sewing, but I had so much fun, I thought I'd share.

A few weeks ago, I told my mom how much I hate mopping.

You see, I do it the old fashion way- on my hands and knees.

I feel like the floor gets cleaner and it's a cost effective alternative to buying Swiffer Jet pad refills all the time.

Back to my mom . . .

She told me she mops with her feet. She puts two cleaning rags under her feet and skates!

My mom has had rheumatoid arthritis for 21 years, so getting down on her hands and knees is a little difficult.

Well, last Saturday as I was getting ready to mop, I was thinking of two things.

1. This always take forever to mop all the floors in my house.

2. I need to get my kids involved more.

Ding! Ding!

The kids and I had SO much fun skate mopping all of the floors!

There was laughter, a few falls and the kids wanted to keep doing it.

It turned out to be way easier to clean with my feet, my five year old made sure he cleaned every area (even under the hard to reach vanity counter top) and we finished in 30 minutes (including taking everything off the floors and sweeping).

Good family fun.

What Can You Make from a Shirt?

2010-06-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Cubic Dreams made a skirt and a dress.

Now that is what I call thrifty!

Check out her cute creations below.

Shirt to Skirt

Shirt to Dress

Complete with tutorial. I love it!

Blog Honors

2010-06-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sew (I laugh so myself every time I write that word instead of so. . .),

we were selected by We All Sew as one of their favorite blogs this week!

We All Sew is sponsored by Bernina and has tons of great stuff for sewers and quilters.

It is such a great portal for those who sew, want to sew or just plain like looking at other's sewn items.

Thank you for selecting us. It's an honor.

We also received a Blog Star Award from Add Your Blog.com.

Wow! What a busy week for us.

Thanks! We love our Blog Star Award.
We will be showing it proudly on our sidebar.

***

Yesterday, we spotlighted Make It and Love It.

Besides this post, we'll be keeping it up for a few days.

She's that good. :)

Make It and Love It

2010-05-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

As I was falling asleep last night, I kept thinking about Ashley's blog name, Make It and Love It.

Take a minute and really think about it.

Okay.

Are you done yet?

It is really a profound statement! All too often, I don't make something because I'm too afraid of how it will turn out. I just need to toss all those fears aside and simply "Make It and Love It." At least I created something, right?

See. Profound.

The first time I saw Ashley's blog, I immediately loved it. Her sense of style is bright, fresh and inviting. All too often, I wish she could come over to my house and spruce it up with her creative genius.

Have you been following her "Decorate My Home" series? I have. So many beautiful things.

Here is the newest decor:

I love the bright, yellow flower with the black and white backdrop.

It goes with this ruffled shower curtain.

It's been so much fun reading and seeing her decorate parts of her home.

And . . .

Ashley shares her wisdom so you can too.

One of my absolute favorites about her blog are her sewing tips. I even have a few of them bookmarked.

Here are my favorites in the clothing, accessories department of her blog:

Repurposed Skirt

Pleated Shirt

Flip Flops with some bling.

And you have yourself a complete summer outfit!

To find out a little bit more about Ashley, read below:

1. When did you first start sewing and why?

I first started sewing when I was a little girl. My mom always sewed us new Easter dresses each spring and I always wanted to make one too. To satisfy my urge to sew something when I was still pretty small, she would help me sew a pillow case or an apron.....she knew I wasn't ready for a dress. Eventually, when I was about 12 or 13, I began sewing simple dresses or skirts. My sweet momma and all of her patience. Whew, what a woman!

2. Name two sewing blogs you frequent.

Oh, sewing blogs? I love Camille's blog, Simplify found here. She is a fantastic quilter (and pattern and fabric designer) and that is a skill that requires so much patience and perfection. Her work is so precise....and her writing is so darn witty and fun. I love seeing what she's working on. And as for another favorite blog....how about a baking one? Bakerella, found here. I love her ideas, her skill, her pictures, and her dialogue. It's all so cute and fun....and an area that I'd also like to learn more about.

3. Do you have one thing that inspires you?

I don't think that there's one thing that inspires me. But lately I love vibrant color. All different shades of all different colors. And next winter I'm sure I'll love muted colors again. What's a girl to do? Also, people really inspire me. I love walking around people, watching what they're wearing, the accessories they have on, what they have tied in their hair, what they're carrying, it all inspires me. I love to watch someone walk by, see something that they have on, and try to figure out a way to make my own. Eeeeeh, gets me all excited!

4. When you are not sewing, what do you do?

I'm a mom to 2 wiggly toddlers. It keeps me pretty busy.....but wow, I love munching on little baby cheeks any chance I can get.

5. What do you do to relax?

If it's late at night and the kids are in bed.....I love a good movie or TV marathon with my husband. The jammies are on, things are put away, the treats come out, and our favorite shows that we've missed for several weeks come out!! Ahhhhh.......time to wind down after a long week!

You know what else? I really love walking around busy little shops downtown, looking at things for sale, watching interactions between other shoppers, finding a bargain, and eating dinner in a little restaurant. Love it.....and it helps me forget about whatever else is on my mind or causing any sort of stress. Beautiful way for me to relax!

6. And anything else you want to add!

Need a crafting tip? Never compare your talent to others. We all have different skills but I think it's easy to shy away from trying something, in fear that it won't be good enough. I know, it's so easy to do. I find myself doing this exact thing frequently. But really, let yourself create without any fear of failing.....and that's when the best ideas come.

***

Thanks for the great crafting tip. It's oh so true.

Happy Memorial Day.

Vroom...Vroom...Wheel!

2010-05-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Is what comes to mind when I am with my friend Judy';s little boy. He loves everything car related and if he sees a wheel he can't help himself and yells out "Wheel." Yep even during church but he is almost two so it is quite adorable. So when I saw this car mat I knew I had the perfect birthday gift for him now!

I am amazed at what Kimbo from A girl and a glue gun creates! Now I just need to add a glue gun to my craft box.

Hijacked!

2010-05-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

So this Friday's post showing the finished product of the Singer Flat Iron Travel Case has been moved back because....Vanessa has hijacked the blog! Keep reading because she is awesome and has a good reason to. A hint is it must be Grandma's week.

****

A year ago today, my grandmother passed away from breast cancer.

I miss her. A lot.

She and I had a special bond.

I'll admit it . . . I was one of her favorites.

Along with the special attention, she also gave me her bubble butt, hips and Native American cheek bones.

Thanks Grandma.

When she wasn't working as a nurse, we spent our time together shopping or dining. Every year for my birthday, she'd take me out for new clothes; a tradition she had continued on with my children.

Shortly after starting this blog, my mom gave me my grandma's sewing box. I never even knew she could thread a needle!

I love the vintage thread and especially the ones made with Styrofoam (not great for sewing machines.)

Quite awhile ago, I also acquired an old sewing machine in a desk complete with accessories thru her.

This was my very first sewing machine. And it still works.

I love the 50's look of it.

They don't make sewing machines like this anymore.

It is heavy!

The accessories are almost the best part.

Yes, those are electric scissors.

And because her great grand babies were the light of her life . . .

This is what my little one was doing while I was taking pictures.

Pretending to take pictures!

Too funny.

Love and miss you Grandma!

Carbs can be good...

2010-05-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Especially if they come in a cute bag like this!

I can't think of any friend I have that is too carb conscious to turn down a loaf of fresh bread in a hand-sewn bread bag made with Saltwater Kids quick 5 minute tutorial using only a dishtowel and ribbon!

Yum, now I want to made some bread to go with the cute bag.

Baby Needs

2010-05-26T07:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Hump Day! Only four more days of school. :)

Instead of Wallet Wednesday, I have a question about what to buy.

Eva has three months before she has her first baby.

It's countdown time.

As a mom, what items do you think are an absolute must have for new baby?

What items aren't necessary, but sure make life great?

I've already given Eva my answers (when I went with her to register!), so what do you think?

Vanessa

In the Kitchen for Wallet Wednesday

2010-05-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

The husband has been enjoying the chance to use the phrase "pregnant and barefoot in the kitchen" for me, and between cleaning and cooking after my work day that usually describes me. I just need to look a tad more cute so the best way to do that is to find cute aprons!

I love the colors and cneckline of the vintage inspired aprons from Boojiboo but this modern tree apron is my favorite!

Not a collector of aprons like our family? The His & Her Reversible Apron from Daffodillies is a great apron to have in your kitchen.

You don't have to be a cooking fan to have rock a great apron. Here is an adorable craft apron by audzipan designs that serves two purposes: cute and functional!

I absolutely LOVE how simple but sweet this Black and White Damask half apron is. What a cute way to cook and perfect to "accidently" still wear with unexpected guests. The talent behind this is Wonderland Avenue.

Last, this apron is for any woman with a little animal inside them. Check out the fun jaguar print apron by Elsie's Flat.

I hope you enjoyed today's shopping trip as much as I do! Now there may be a barefoot, pregnant AND cute lady in the kitchen!

Tool Time anyone?

2010-05-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

I know at least one general contractor that would love to have these for their children. Our mechanic & friend is actually going to be getting one all glittered and blinged up for his future little girl to wear when she helps daddy work in the
garage :)
shhh don't tell Brad...

Isn't it cute!

The tool belt tutorial from Kim at 733 is simple and I am excited to make one and surprise our friend!

Anything Goes Right?

2010-05-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

So for my anything goes Monday I wanted to share something close to my heart that I learned from an amazing woman, Grams (aka Fran or Greta Garbo)

Doesn't she look spunky. I feel blessed to have 8 years of memories with her a part of my life. When I became engaged to the hubby in 2001 my dad received a job offer out of state and moved 2 weeks later. My mom wanted to follow after the school year but didn't want to leave me homeless for 2-3 months before our wedding. Grams and Grandpa Ed offered their home and I lived with them from June to August and they helped me adjust to joining a new family. After we got our first apartment in the fall we spent every Wednesday evening having dinner with them and continued to after Grandpa passed away July 2003. We actually lived with Grams for a few years until she passed away last year on May 19, 2009. She is my grandmother in every sense of the word and I feel so lucky to have the experiences, memories and lessons she taught in my heart forever. One fact about her is she was an amazing seamstress and crafter. She made beautiful quilts, towels, dolls and even made my mother-in-laws clothes up until she was married at 23! I have two projects she taught me before her health failed that I will treasure and plan on making for our kids and family to carry on her memory. One I wanted to share with you today.

So here is a tutorial for the Grams Baby Quilt (it's my first tutorial so let me know if you have any questions!)

Materials:

1 1/2 yard of a printed baby flannel

1 1/2 yard of a solid baby flannel to coordinate

1/2 yard each of a cotton blend quilting fabric in 2 coordinating solid colors for the border.

Yarn to tie the quilt

Batting (baby crib size usually works, 45" x 60")

First step is to cut 74 squares that are 3 inches by 3 inches from each of the cotton blend quilting fabrics. You should have about 150 squares total. A tip for quick cutting is to cut rows 3 inches wide the length of the fabric and then stack a few rows and cut into squares. A rotary blade and cutting board make this so much easier.

I always square my fabric by lining the selvage edge on a straight line and trimming the bottom edge (seen below my ruler) off.

Here is it squared and ready to cut into rows.

Each row should be 3 inches and you will need a minimum of 5 but cutting 6 gives you a few extra on hand if you need them.

Now into 3 inch squares:

Here are the finished products!

Next is the most time consuming. You iron each individual square in half twice to form a small triangle with a folded edge:

1st fold...

2nd and final fold...

Here is what it looks like unfolded:

On to sewing finally!

Pin the triangles with the open bottom side to the edge of the right side of the printed baby flannel fabric alternating colors and then sew on.

Pinning the triangles

Alternate the colors

Then sew them on:

Here is what a corner should look like

Once the triangles are sewn on, sew the backing and top together (right sides facing) with the batting on the wrong side of the fabric (can be the backing or top print)

Use the pillow case method and sew all around the edge but leave at least 12 inches to turn the fabric out.

You can either hand or machine stitch to close the quilt but hand stitching does leave a more finished look.

Once closed use yarn to tie the quilt and keep the batting in place.

Here is a finished quilt

(yes it is different from the one above... more on that below)

Here is a closer shot of the edging and corners.

I apologize in the different quilts. The first is still in the process of being finished (Grams left it unfinished). The finished quilt is one of the last Grams made and actually the one she made specifically for us to have for our first child. It makes it all the more special knowing that a year later we are going to be able to pass on to our son his very own Grams quilt to love and cherish.

So for this Monday is my first tutorial and in complete honor of a woman who we miss each day.

To Grams, a year has passed but you are ever in our hearts. May we continue to make you proud and never forget what an example and spunky lady you are!

No Sew Flowers

2010-05-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I can't get enough of flowers. They are just so pretty.

Here's a no sew flower for those days you just don't want to poke yourself with a needle. Yes, I have poked myself numerous times while sewing together flowers.

Love 2 Create shares a tutorial on how to make these lovely flowers.

They look like something you'd buy in the store. Amazing!

Decorate your home or accessorize.

Messenger Bag for the Library

2010-05-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

Each week we go to the library so my 5 year old can read to Sherman.

Sherman is a dog.

Last week, I promised my son I'd make him a library bag for next time.

Well, yesterday morning (library day), I had yet to make the bag.

I found a super, easy messenger bag tutorial on Diary of a Quilter's blog

and

whipped one up.

Complete with an added pocket.

(Don't look to close at my sewing skills. Which poses a question. When do you backstitch?)

Throw in a book . . .

And we are ready to go!

(I couldn't get this kid to NOT do some sort of silly pose. So, this is him AND his personality.)

Next time, I have plans to make the strap a little longer.

But he loves it, and sometimes that is all that matters.

Setting The Table Placemats

2010-05-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

My kids help me set the table.

I really need to make a few of these place mats from Seams Simple.

I love it!

Something For Myself

2010-05-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

I must be in a selfish mood lately because all I want to do is go shopping for myself.

Maybe I'm burnt out from school and ready for summer.

I always think I need a new wardrobe when it starts heating up (and cooling down), but the kids get the new clothes. Not me.

So, I'm virtual shopping for myself today!

And I'm in the mood for some new shirts.

Classic black with some ruffles for day or evening by Lily.

She has so many cute shirts and dresses in her shop!

This little ditty by Floremark looks super cozy.

The red accent very cool.

I live in Las Vegas. It gets HOT during the summer.

This tank looks cool and cute.

Ellaina's Boutique is filled with fun stuff.

This virtual shopping trip wouldn't be complete without a little sewing bling on a shirt.

Moxie Madness has a great variety of shirts and they are all fantastic!

Now go out and buy yourself a shirt. I dare you.

I just might. ;)

Nursing Cover Tutorial

2010-05-18T00:10:00.000-07:00

This one's for you Shanda!

nursing cover (n): an essential for every nursing mom, covers baby and all parts of mom's body she'd like to keep hidden/private while still allowing her to take sneak peeks at her little nursing baby

Thank you Amy from Diary of a Quilter for a quick, easy and super awesome tutorial.

I really wish I had had one of these while I was nursing.

Baby shower gift anyone?

My Monday What?

2010-05-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Eva and I have gotten busy with, well, life.

It happens sometimes. To all of us.

So, for the summer months (and maybe longer), we will be doing "My Monday Spotlights" on the first Monday of each month - only once a month.

But on those other Mondays, if we have time, you may catch a tutorial or something else fun from us!

Hope you don't mind.

Wow!

2010-05-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sew It To Me has grown and been so much fun these last 3 months. It is still amazing to think that we haven't been doing this for that long. It has also been "sew" much fun to meet such talented people via the internet and help share their great ideas and talents.

We also have been given some cool opportunities since we started our blog in February. One recent one is the chance to review a product for the CSN Store network. They have a ton of great products in any of their over 200 stores. You can find anything from a new sofa to baby gear to kitchen appliances (the storage ottomans are so cool!) We love sewing but I can attest that there is more to Vanessa and I than just our love of sewing. I love to cook and Vanessa has a great eye for home decor and an excellent baker.

We are excited for this opportunity with CSN Stores to review one of their products and hope you enjoy it on an upcoming Fun Friday! We will keep you posted!

No Sew Saturday-Pizza Time!

2010-05-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

With school ending and the summer coming up I know that one thing my mom always dreaded was how to keep us from getting too bored or fighting. She had great ideas and we took plenty of trips ot the library, parks and had play dates. But there were still days where I know she was at her wits end. Those were the cake for breakfast days. 5 Kids can do that to you :)

To keep our readers from having to have a "cake for breakfast" kind of day here is a great No Sew idea from Jackie & Gabe at avocado & papaya.

Isn't this felt pizza awesome!

It is a great way to keep little ones occupied while you are busy and older ones to make themselves!

What would you create for no sew felt food as a summer project?

*****
And the Spring Bling winners are.....

The Shabby Shack necklace goes to:

Susanne said...

I love either Tiger Tail or Pistachio ice cream -- but my hips don't need ice cream at the moment :-)

May 7, 2010 7:22 AM

The Mom Beach Bag by Half a Dozen Daisies winner is:

Leslie said...

Enter Me! I'm a follower! :)

May 7, 2010 12:48 PM

If you are a winner please email us at sewittome(@)gmail.com by Thursday, May 20th!

A BIG Thank you to our great sponsors of the Spring Bling giveaway and for our fan/readers/followers!

Fun Friday-Tutorial Challenge!

2010-05-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

With traveling on my brain I am excited to share this great and simple tutorial for your own travel bag for a Flat Iron by Becky Hanson.

Who is Becky you may ask?

Well Becky Hanson is director of education for SVP Worldwide, one of the world’s largest sewing machine companies and maker of SINGER®, HUSQVARNA VIKING® and PFAFF® sewing machines.

Download the tutorial HERE

Stay tuned for my next Fun Friday in two weeks and I will post pictures of my own travel bag using her tutorial. I challenge our readers to try this tutorial and send us pictures of your finished project as well!

****

Thanks for participating in our Spring Bling Give-Away this last week. Winners will be posted tomorrow so be sure to check it out!

If you give Eva a book, she will ask for a...

2010-05-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

Bag to put it in :)

I love libraries (and books) and hope to pass that love along to our children. Every adult and child needs their own library bag right? I love the owl on Lulu's Tiles bag below.

Check out her tutorial and see the cute extra she added to make it hard to forget the return dates.

****

Today is the last day to enter our Spring Bling Give-Away. Leave a comment HERE to enter.

Wallet Wednesday

2010-05-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Last week was our Spring Bling week and we have an awesome Give-Away sponsored by two cute shops that are all about cute accessories still open. You have a chance to win one of The Shabby Shack's gorgeous necklaces or a Mom Beach Bag from Half a Dozen Daisies!

Enter the Give-Away by leaving a comment HERE.

*****

I have the travel bug. Who knew at 6 1/2 months pregnant I would be bit by it? So I hope you enjoy these great travel finds as much as I did.

I am flying late at night both times so I am in need of a cute pillow. I love the fabric on the Travel Pillow below made by Sygnet Creations

Maybe with this Travel Eye Pillow by Lavender Aromatherapy I can look as refreshed as a celebrity when I get off the plane :)

No international travel this year for us but I could see this cute passport cover by Gracie Designs getting some use next year (we hope)!

And if you are traveling with little ones this I Spy Pillow by The Pint Size Cove would come in handy to occupy a little one during long car trips or flights.

and I love the added journal pocket on Exclusively Handmade's Travel pillows! This Dora one is adorable.

I'm Leaving On a Jet Plane...

2010-05-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

And will be creating these cute Luggage tags for my bags :)

With the summer almost here I hope you are able to use this tutorial from FUN to Craft! on your vacation travels too!

Why traveling? Well, I am off to East Texas to see my mom in 18 days! It was my mom-to be mother's day present and it will be fun to see her before our little guy makes his debut in August!

I am just a little excited ;)

****

"Whoops! We announced a new winner for our fabric envelope giveaway in yesterday's post, but we shouldn't have. Note to us: check spam folder. Sorry!"

My Spotlight Monday

2010-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love Mondays. Each Monday I get to learn more about another talented person from the blogging/internet world and it is so much fun. This week's key word is celebrate! Here are a few of my favorite projects our Spotlight of the week has shared

This cute Superhero tote-great for any superhero in your life!

This is an adorable take on a taggie. I love the layers!

Our My Spotlight Monday this week is....

LeAnne from Everyday Celebrations!

Her site is heaven for a purse hoarder like me (I have a tote bag from my sister-in-law that says that exact phrase). She has so many cute ideas on purses and sells her own patterns on Etsy too. Don't worry there are many more great projects besides totes and purses.

This site is a must add to any sewing fan's reader and blogroll. You won't be bored I promise!

Here is a little more about the amazing LeAnne:

1. When did you first start sewing and why?

My mom taught me how to sew when I was young. I learned all the basics a mom tries to teach you when you are little. Then in college I took a children's sewing class, which I loved. However, it wasn't until I took a quilting class about five years ago that I realized this was the hobby for me. I've been sewing since then and I can't get enough.

2. Name two sewing blogs you frequent.

Like so many, I adore Homemade by Jill and MADE. They both are so talented! I also love their individual styles.

When I get a quilting itch, I head over to Simplify. I wish I could have all of her quilts in my home. They are beautiful.

3. Do you have one thing that inspires you?

Lots of things inspire me. But one thing that gets me is just seeing a pile of fabric. I dunno what it is. I just love looking at a pile of colorful fabrics. Or a precut from Moda. Or a blank notebook waiting to be filled with ideas.

That was more than one. :) See I said lots of things inspire me.

4. When you are not sewing, what do you do?

Nothing beats being with my family. Nothing.

5. What is your favorite holiday or event to celebrate?

Christmas is by far my favorite holiday to celebrate. I love everything about Christmas: the colors, smells, music, food ... everything. I also love to find little things to celebrate, the first day of school, the last day of a long week ... for me it is finding those little things to celebrate that make life so wonderful.

6. Anything else you would like to share with our readers?

I love that sewing is 'in style'. It is great to see so many sharing and trying their sewing creations. I get caught up sometimes in what other people are doing that I have to remember to just get out there and create something I love!

Here are a few of LeAnne's favorite projects that she has published on Everyday Celebrations

Colors Fabric Book (I love this book and can't wait to make one myself!)

Colorful Hair Barrettes

Valentine Countdown Calendar

Happy Monday!

No Sew Accessories

2010-05-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ahh. . . who doesn't love no sew projects.

Here's a few, really great ones to brighten up your Saturday AND if you hurry up, you can even make a couple before Mother's Day tomorrow.

A Lemon Squeezy Home has a fabulous flower bracelet tutorial with a no sew version.

This next one could possibly be the fastest no sew project you ever make - button earrings.
Thanks for sharing Crafti Gemini.

These Mother's Day Poppies by Grosgrain Fabulous are some serious eye candy.
And you can use them to embellish anything.

Happy Together has the most scrumptious vintage looking pearl and ribbon necklace.
Love the Look!

I see flowers everywhere. Imagine how and what I can make them out of.
Here's a tutorial for felt flowers by Craftaholics Anonymous.
They make me smile.

The perfect end to a perfect week.

Make some flowers for Mum.
By Made.

Oh, and don't forget the card!
Thanks Mmmcrafts.

(Photo courtesy of http://www.mmmcrafts.blogspot.com/)

Happy Mother's Day to all those wonderful, beautiful mother's out there.
And most especially to my mother. Thank you for giving me life. For the times you pick up the phone- even if I just called you two times before. I learn from you daily.

To my mother-in-law. We are two peas in a pod. Thinking of you brings a smile to my face. You are a strong women and a beautiful example.

Finally, to Eva. Welcome to the journey of being a mother. It is the most difficult to undertake, but nothing is more rewarding and magical. You will be wonderful.

Accessories to Giveaway

2010-05-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Giveaway is now CLOSED.

I have been excited about this day for a few weeks now.

We have some very cool, very awesome, very hip items to giveaway.

Have you heard of Shabby Shack?

Well, if you haven't, you've been missing out.

Shabby Shack makes the most darling necklaces I have ever seen.

Don't believe me?

See for yourself.

You're saying "Wow" right now, huh?

The detail is amazing and I love all the lace.

These necklaces are perfect to dress up a shirt and as a mom, I know my shirts could use a little dressing up.

They put the Bling into our Spring.

A little bit of dainty bling.

I heart the mix of flower fabric and blue in this one.

Just look at those buttons!

And one very lucky reader (who I am very jealous of) will be receiving one of these necklaces for their very own.

Which necklace?

You get to pick!

Isn't this the best giveaway ever?

But. . . we are not done.

We still have one more giveaway.

Summer is just around the corner.

(For some reason it is taking longer to get here this year.)

And the ABSOLUTE perfect accessory for summer is a beach bag.

But not just any beach bag.

No, this Mom Beach Bag by Half a Dozen Daisies is a dream.

Here's a few reasons why:

1. It can be tossed in the washer with the towels and bathing suits.

No more sand left in the bag or left over sunblock/chlorine smell.

2. It can hold the kitchen sink and more.

Really, it can hold a queen size blanket, four beach towels and a sand pail.

That's big!

3. There's even a pocket to store your phone, sunblock and anything else small.

4. My favorite feature- a sewn in ribbon complete with velcro to hold your keys. I cannot even count the number of times I dug through our beach bag last year! Now I can just grab the ribbon and pull my keys out. One less thing to stress about. :)

Now, that is a beach bag.

Half a Dozen Daisies has Mom Beach Bags in all prints.

Here are a few of my favorites:

See how big that is?!

And they even have Mini Mama Bags for when the kids go without you (or want to carry their own stuff).

And look what came in the mail for me on Monday!

I've had way too much fun taking pictures and playing with it.
So have my kids.

A cozy place to nap in.

And my almost six year old can fit in it too.
See . . . it is a big bag.

Where are my keys?
Oh, there they are!

AND
The winner of the Mom Beach Bag will get to pick out their very own!
You can get the style you love.

Exciting, huh?

***

Here are the guidelines to enter the giveaway:

Accessories to Hold

2010-05-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

My favorite accessory of all time:

Purses, Bags, Totes

They go by many names, but perhaps my undying love stems from my organizing fetish.

Organize in style and I'm a happy woman.

If you are a mom, you need a wet bag.

This wet bag by A Lemon Squeezy Home even matches my current purse.

(I wish I'd had one of these during potty training.)

See the Wet Bag?

See my Purse?

Oilcloth. I love it, but have yet to sew with it.

Perhaps the stash I have would be perfect for this coin purse by Freshly Pickled.

Made By Lex is an up and coming designer. It's been fun to follower her blog.

Her pleated purse is a must see.

This next bag is for the beach and it is by Fireflies and Jellybeans.

It's made from a shower curtain!

Every sewing mama needs one of these Felt Needle Books by Little Birdie Secrets.

They are just so adorable!

(Mom, if you are reading this. . . act surprised if you get one of these for Mother's Day.)

Maybe we'll have to do one whole week just on purses, bags, etc.

They are so fun!

Accessories to Buy

2010-05-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

A little side note:

I'm being featured/published (not sure how it quite applies to this) on http://www.postpartumprogress.com/ today.
Kathrine Stone does an amazing job advocating for women with perinatal mood disorders and the information she provides on her site is extremely helpful and educational.

I suffered with postpartum depression after my son was born five and a half years ago. It changed my life.
Now I volunteer for Postpartum Support International, an amazing non-profit organization devoted to promoting awareness, prevention and treatment of perinatal mood disorders.

If you want to check it out, click on the Postpartum Progress link above.

***
Just a few things I'd like to buy that any mother would appreciate (hint, hint- if only my husband read this blog):

A Little Penelope Lane oh so pretty headband.

(If you live in So. Cal, be sure to stop by her Open House May 7th.)

This Victorian style Poppy Ring by Much Loveilly.

A ring to decorate any finger.

The perfect every day bag by Sineminugur.

This Dahlia Necklace Flower is breathtaking.

I could stare at it for hours.

I could use this bracelet by Redd Tree for when I'm in one of my hip moods.

And it's made from Amy Butler fabric. :)

The Garden Party earrings created by Art Happens make me sigh in happiness (No, really. I sighed.).

Shopping for accessories is my favorite pasttime!

Accessories to Wear

2010-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Kalleen from At Second Street mentioned Sutton Grace in yesterday's My Spotlight Monday as one of her fav sewing blogs to visit, so I had to check it out for myself.

Imagine my delight when I came across this rosette brooch. It's sooo fun!

For those who are not brave enough to do a permanent alteration (like myself. . . now you know my deep, dark secret- I love it when someone adds flare to a shirt, but I'm not brave enough to do it myself), this is a brilliant alternative.

Big. Bold. Beautiful.

I have an obsession with fabric covered beads.
Check out these beauties by A Lemon Squeezy Home.
(I showed my quick version on This post.)
She has so many great items! You'll be seeing more of her this week on our blog.

Disney from Ruffles And Stuff (a site I know we all love!) has the perfect earrings.
I heart her style. Aren't they a dainty delight?
(Oh, and be sure to check out her Celebrating Mom event!)

All things ocean make me happy, but this bracelet by Sew a Straight Line can be made to fit your taste.
Her tutorial is pretty fun to read too. :)

Creation Corner has some lovely, lovely vintage headbands.
I sure need a bazillion of these for my every day bad hair day. I'd feel pretty all the time.

On Mother's Day, it's Mom's turn to be Queen.
Every mom needs one of these beauties Until Wednesday Calls (The name of her daughter. Kudos for such a cute blog name!).

A little bit of everything you can wear.

My Spotlight Monday

2010-05-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

It is the start of Spring Bling week!

I hope you are excited. I know I am.

I love accessories. A little bit of bling. It makes me happy.

I especially love spring. The freshness and newness of it all.

I really love spring clothing and dressing them up (if only my wallet was as deep as my desires.)

It is the perfect week to look at pretty things.

Mother's Day is this Sunday. Maybe you'll see some great gift ideas.

I know I have.

***

Today's spotlight is the perfect beginning for Spring Bling!

Kalleen from At Second Street.

She's been a serious contender on So You Think You're Crafty and has won quite a few times. Her ideas are original and fresh, she shares fabulous, easy to follow tutorials and she does all of this while being mom to four beautiful children.

Wow. I'm impressed.

I could go on and on, but see for yourself (her sewing skills that is):

When I first saw this Tag Wallet, I fell in love with it's one-of-a-kind bling.

These upcycled bracelets are aMAZing. And yes, she tells you how to make these too!

Sometimes mom's best accessory is the one that keeps their child entertained.
Ahh . . . can you hear that peace and quiet?

This may be some winter bling, but isn't it too chic?

And I just had to add this bracelet. You have just enough time to get a few whipped up for your moms.
A little bit of grandbabies' artwork on your arm.

As always, if you'd like to get to know Kalleen a little more, read on:

1. When did you first start sewing and why?

I started sewing around the age of 8 or 9 years old. My mom was a fabulous sewer and wanted to teach me and my sister through 4H. I hated it and didn't really do it much beyond that. I didn't like patterns and making clothing. I did however use the sewing machine for various "projects" over the years. I'm the same today. I'm not a traditional sewer but I sew a lot for crafts and such. Now that I have kids I've enjoyed making them things as well.

2. Name two sewing blogs you frequent.

I love Ruffles and Stuff and Sutton Grace. Both are very inspirational to me.

3. Do you have one thing that inspires you?

I love refashioned clothing. I get very inspired seeing others create something new out of something old. It makes me want to go through my closet and find a treasure.

4. When you are not sewing, what do you do?

I have four kids so they keep me pretty busy. I love spending time with family.

5. What is your favorite book/author?

These is my Words: The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine by Nancy E. Turner

***

Turning Three & Spring Bling

2010-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm hijacking our blog.
(Shh . . . don't tell Eva.)

As some of you may know, my little girl turned three on Thursday.

I view so many sewing blogs on a daily basis, so I was inspired to sew a lot of her gifts.

Now that she has seen them, I'd like to share them with you with a little help from her as my model.
(Sorry if you have already seen the pictures on Facebook.)

Butterfly Theme Party = Butterfly Cupcakes
(Yes, I made the cupcakes.)

Her big, brown eyes get me every time.

(And her. Made her too.)

Beautiful bracelets she can put on all by herself.

These bracelets were sew simple.

I cut the cuffs out of felt with pinking shears and added some sticky Velcro for closure.

I cut the green flower parts out with a Cricut and then sewed on the button.

For the multicolored flower, I cut a strip of fabric and hand sewed a stitch along the bottom. Then I gathered the fabric into a flower, made some stitches to hold it together and sewed on the button.

Final touch: added a circular piece of felt to the back of each flower and then hot glued them to the felt.

This next one is my favorite flower.
I have a tutorial in the works for this one, which I happened to make by remembering someone else's tutorial incorrectly. You've got to love it when something works out by doing it wrong!

I hand cut these flowers because the first batch of wool I bought will not work in a Cricut.

This flower was made the same as the one on the bracelet above and then I attached it to a fabric beaded bracelet.

I made this bracelet in five minutes. Let's just say, it's not my favorite.

But the tutorial I made it from is wonderful. I can't tell you about it just yet because it's being featured this week.

And my ruffled hobo sack, which I made using Made's fabulous tutorial.

This is my favorite of all the things.

(If you have any questions about anything I made, please email me. This was a quick post.)
Now it is time to sew Mother's Day gifts!

But don't forget. . . This week is . . .
Spring Bling!

Lot's of goodies to spoil yourself or your mom!

Here's the breakdown:

My Spotlight Monday
The spotlight is a surprise, but it's full of fun accessories!

Tuesday
Accessories to Wear

Wednesday
Accessories to Buy

Thursday
Accessories to Hold

Friday
Accessories to Giveaway!!!
(I promise, this is one giveaway you will not want to miss.)

Saturday
No Sew Accessories

***

No Sew Saturday- Memo Board Anyone? (Plus Give-Away Winners!)

2010-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Remember the cute no-sew fabric tacks? Well if you didn't already have a board to use them on how about this one?

Sew Dang Cute's easy tutorial will make it a snap and it's no sew!

***

The Giveaway winners are:

The Fabric Wall Art goes to Comment # 33
Whitney said...

i would use the organizer for coupons!!

April 27, 2010 10:03 PM

The Coupon Organizer winner is: Comment # 21
stacey said...

I followe on FB too.

April 23, 2010 3:30 PM

An last but not least the Gift Card to Never Enough Bows winner is: Comment #8
Krystin said...

I am a follower!!

April 23, 2010 7:10 AM

Please email us at sewittome(@)gmail(dot)com if you are a winner with your address. If we haven't heard from you by Thurday, May 6th we will pick a new winner.

A big thank you to Crafty Things & Stuff & Never Enough for providing such cute items and to our awesome readers for participating in the giveaway!

Fun Friday!

2010-04-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks for participating in our first give away. We are inspired and ever grateful to those creative people we feature and our readers/followers!

Today is all about the Cool Comments we receive here on the blog.

1st up is Leslie who commented on our "I Can Sew With This" post during our first feature week.

Leslie said...

I used it for the lining of a diaper bag that I made... & a matching changing pad. It's easy to just wipe clean so I thought it was perfect.

I am loving this new idea. Thanks Leslie!

For our My Spotlight Monday on Cluck Cluck Sew, our reader Francis' comment is a source of inspiration to use for first time quilters.

Francis said...

Cluck.Cluck.Sew is the reason I became brave enough to venture from small baby quilts to my first king size quilt! I am a young mom & wish there were more young girls learning to quilt these days. If you've done any sewing, you should jump in a try a quilt! You'll be surprised how easy it is.

I had some great tips from reader after my Refashion ideas request on my last Fun Friday Post and wanted to share the great link from Never Enough Bows. Now I just need to refashion the outfit!

Never Enough Bows said...

I fall into that trap where I have a ton of clothes I want to refashion, but no ideas. This blog here is awesome, http://newdressaday.wordpress.com/.She refashions a new article of clothing each day. It's given me tons of inspiration. Hope that helps and good luck!

We love reading the comments, tips, links and ideas from our readers! Have a wonderful and FUN Friday!

All about Tabs!

2010-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

Don't forget today is not only the amazing Coral's 3rd birthday (daughter of the awesome Vanessa) but also the last day to enter our GIVEAWAY! You can still enter it HERE.

****

Tabs? Huh? Why would you want tabs on something other than for practical reasons?

This is why, simple Tab-riffic!

Sew simple, sew cute and sew easy! I love what Cheri from I am Momma - Here me Roar did with a simple sweater. The Tabs make it pop and add a great element and embellishment! Here is to having more tabs in our life!

Wallet Wednesday

2010-04-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

Weather in California can be unpredictable and with the end of April just 2 days away I wouldn't be shocked to see April Showers go into May this year :)

With that thought in mind why shouldn't we still be stylish when in rains.

I LOVE the color of this rain/trench coat. It is the work of Just Kitsch and it even fold up into itself. Cute and compact!

It may be April but here are May flowers on this gorgeous rain coat. Farapinalia's choice of red poppy's is perfect for Spring!

This water resistant rain coat is perfect for any fashionista, especially the ruffles! This is a great coat designed by Chez Kevito

With rainy days that are light enough to not need an official coat but something to perk up the outfit and prevent frizzy hair, go with this darling cloche hat by Moaning Minnie

I couldn't help but add this last adorable shirt from Stutter and Sing's shop. It may not work to protect you from the rain but it does represent a rainy day!

I hope you enjoyed our trip today and are ready for any last rain this spring season!

Tee Time!

2010-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

GIVEAWAY Reminder

If you haven't had a chance to enter our giveaway go HERE.

Thank you to all our readers for your support!

*****

I have to plan for gifts. I always end up buying something if I don't plan ahead. That is why when I saw Junie Moon's tutorial for Golf Towels I had to share it.

I know Mother's day is first and believe me I am very excited celebrating it this year but I know that right after Mother's Day is Father's Day and I am always stumped. I have done ties, books and so many others (for my husband a video game always is a safe bet) but this year I really want to make these!

Maybe I will add in a girlie set for me and finally get the husband on the golf course with me!

My Spotlight Monday

2010-04-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you mix a standard storage item in your home, mix it with anything that is creative (sewing, crafts & more) and start a blog?

Does this picture help at all?

If you haven't guessed our My Spotlight Monday is...

Melanie from The Crafty Cupboard!

I love her site and the many different projects she blogs and creates tutorials on. She is a crafty person and not that other kind, the creative crafty kind! She has so many great ideas from quilting to furniture and home decor. She has great ideas for a simple budget and in this economy I love seeing those.

I hope you fall in love with her ideas and she inspires you to become crafty too!

1. When did you first start sewing and why?

I first started sewing when I was probably in the 4th grade. My mom taught sewing lessons to other kids in the neighborhood and my older sister and I were rounded up to make the class full. I remember making a drawstring bag to hold my sewing supplies. Later, I worked for my mom, who is an award-winning Workroom Professional, sewing drapery panels and pillows and stuff like that. Being a poor college student with a baby made me break down and start making clothes for the wee one. I just started picking up quilting thanks to my BFF... it is really satisfying!

2. Name two sewing blogs you frequent.

Who DOESN'T frequent MADE? I love Dana's ideas and courage to make patterns simply by using existing clothes. And I always get excited when Jill from Homemade by Jill has a new project to share; she is the person who inspired me to start a blog in the first place. She'll always sit high on the crafty pedestal in my book.

3. Do you have one thing that inspires you?

My followers! I go to every follower's profile and like to learn a little about them. I have found so many great blogs, good ideas, and motivation through my bloggy friends.

4. When you are not sewing, what do you do? I really enjoy reading, watching movies with my main squeeze (usually chick flicks- Lucky for me, the man doesn't mind girly movies as long as he can watch some ESPN after), and playing with my kiddos, ages 3 and 9 months. And... go to fabric stores, much to the chagrin of said main squeeze.

5. As a child, what did you want to grow and an do/be?

I wanted to be a mom/dental hygienist, but when I barely scraped out a C in college chemistry... I changed courses and majored in Home and Family Living with an emphasis in Interior Design. Not that you can tell by looking at my apartment... now I just dream of publishing a children's picture book and becoming Ree Drummond, minus the cows in the yard.

6. Anything else to share?

A pitiful fact about me is that I really dislike cooking. Probably because I ruin nearly everything I touch, but it is the bane of my existence. I am always so impressed with people (and my followers) who are great at cooking. Hello, domestic goddesses. I am not one of them. I do, however, love to sing and do all things musical. I am in a small group where we sing together just for kicks and giggles and it makes my week! I am the choir director and chorister at my church, so music takes up a bit of my time :)

Here are some of her favorite projects she has blogged about.

The Anthro-inspired printer letter

Her Coloring Caddy (I wonder if one can be made for 180 markers....that would be handy for me!)

The Framed Silhouettes

(this project I would love to do with our son!)

And the perfect baby shower gift: Ribbon Blanket

My favorites are:

Her Birthday Banner tutorial. My lack of skill in paper crafting makes this perfect for me!

The cute Button Yo-yo's

Cuddle Cubes, they describe themselves perfectly!

There are so many more wonderful tutorials and great projects at her site so be sure to check it out!

No Sew Saturday

2010-04-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

So simple. So Cute.

Refashion an old shirt without any sewing.

Check out this tutorial over at Simply Designing.