Monday, August 30, 2010

Pillow Cases

I made some cute pillow case dresses for the girls out of my favorite sheet set. I just laid a dress they have onto the pillow case and traced it with fabric marker, then added 3/4 " to each line and cut away! That may seem like a big seam allowance, but then I have enough room for a French seam.

I loved these sheets, but it has been washed a few too many times and no longer fits the bed. The good news is - the girls get these way cute dresses that will be easily turned into tunics come fall and winter and I have a whole sheet set to make into something for me!
I was really excited to test out the elastic thread I used for the shirring at the bust-line. It was so easy! I didn't have any problems, even on my cheap-o sewing maching.

These were queen sized pillow cases and if I do this again, I'd do it with king sized ones. I didn't have enough fabric to double roll the hem or the sleeve & neck openings. Even still, these were a quick project and super cute!

Monday, August 16, 2010

Jaelyn's Stash

A few months ago, my friend Jaelyn and I worked out an awesome trade - photos of my babies for a basket of hand sewn goodies. I couldn't be happier with the trade. If you want to see her amazing work (and hire her), check out her blog at Complexions Photography!

Here are some more photos of the cute stuff she picked out!

Those are rolled up Art Aprons on the right hand side of the photo...

The adorable baby shoes came from Sweet Pea Patterns - they are reversible!

Oh, So Busy!

Gee whiz! I can't believe its been so long since I posted! With busy toddlers and a husband and 4 year old about to start school, it has been crazy! In my spare time (about 10 pm and later) I have just been sewing. Its seems that the sewing machine, and my fabric stash, are constantly calling my name. I'm afraid I have no photographs to share of finished products, instead there are just a lot of pattern folders, cut fabric and notions in my sewing basket.

I'm hoping to finish all the projects I have cut out by the end of next week so that my machine can be serviced before I being all the holiday sewing. We'll see how that goes...

The world of food has us eating a lot of Mango Slaw and Bruschetta. Yum! Since there are few true recipes for Bruschetta, I will share how we make ours.

8 roma tomatoes, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1 T. olive oil
1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn or finely chopped
salt & pepper
crusty bread to serve

In a large bowl mix tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Slice bread and lightly brush with olive oil; grill or broil to desired crispness. You may also rub the bread with a cut piece of garlic before grilling, if desired.

Notes: Taste a lot - not just because it is delicious, but depending upon your taste and ingredients, you may need to increase or reduce some ingredients - especially the garlic or basil. This may smell quite garlic-y (our whole fridge does, even when sealed in Ziplock bags), but the mixture itself is fine. If you have any left over, it is especially delicious the next day!