Two Little Banshees

Fabric Combinations

2012-02-03T12:20:00.003+08:00

I am not allowing myself to start something new without finishing something, but I don't think playing around with fabrics and making piles counts as starting something new.

School and Sewing

2012-02-02T09:17:00.004+08:00

The twins started year 2 yesterday in different classes and Eva is at her first morning of kindy this morning and, fingers crossed, everything seems to be going ok. So I have a few hours to myself. The downside to this is that everyone asks you "what will you do with all this free time?". Umm actually get some work done, maybe I won't be sewing at all hours of the night, those toy patterns I promise people in emails I will get around to writing, I may actually get around to writing them, and the ideas I jot down in notebooks maybe I will get to try some of them.

The first job today - a quilt that has been sitting half finished for well over a year and hopefully a little pattern writing.

My Wagon Wheels pattern is now up at the Fat Quarter Shop and also in my store.

In sewing news the New Look 6429 dress I made over a year ago has been worn and worn - it is perfect in really hot weather so I made another in a cotton black and white spot jersey.

Clothilde - finished

2012-01-29T12:32:00.003+08:00

Clothilde is off the needles and blocked. It was an enjoyable pattern to knit, not too difficult, but enough to be interesting. I did not love knitting with the Malabrigo silky wool, but it makes a beautiful shawl and I love the finished result. More details on ravelry.

Wagon Wheels Pattern

2012-01-28T09:28:00.002+08:00

This quilt pattern has been a long long time coming. The blocks and top were sewn together quite quickly and then I thought I would hand quilt it and this is where things came to a sudden stop. While I love, love, love the look of hand quilting especially with perle cotton and I am not a natural at it. I didn't like how it looked when I tried it and because of this I did not enjoy it. Not one bit. So it sat in a the pile of unfinished quilts until the end of last year when I decided to machine quilt it.

So finally the pattern is available. It is in my re-opened bigcartel store which now has all the PDF patterns available as instant downloads.

Quilt for Jane - finished

2012-01-25T09:10:00.003+08:00

I have decided I need to finish off quilts completely when I make them (yes I know it sounds obvious, but starting something new always seems much more fun). There are quite a few in various stages around here, including some tops which just need quilting and binding. I basted, quilted and machine bound this quilt for my sister Jane this week when my girls were have a holiday with their grandparents. It is such a big quilt so I just quilted it with straight horizontal lines. I think trying to free motion quilt this might have driven me insane and I love the look of straight lines through the shoo fly blocks.

It is quite a big quilt and 2 lengths of fabric was not enough to cover the back so I added some fabric in the middle and some across to make a big cross. I really wanted to make a big shoo fly block to cover the back, but my brain just couldn't manage it in this heat.

This week

2012-01-23T15:46:00.004+08:00

The week in instagram pictures:
Soap Making.
Shawl knitting.

Coriander collecting.

A little quilting. The pile of unfinished things is getting smaller.

Made in Cherry

2012-01-21T06:02:00.003+08:00

I finished my miniature version of Sarah Fielke's Made in Cherry. I have always wanted to make a lone star quilt, but the thought of all those y seams has always put me off. This pattern is so much easier and gives a similar look.
I wanted to use up some scraps and make a small enough size to hang on the wall so my squares are all 2 1/2" and my centre square is only 8 squares across instead of 10. The finished size is 32". I did machine sew the binding, it was definitely easier and looks a bit better on the back than the first one I did.
There is a quilt-along going on over at Pins and Bobbins if you want to join in.

Machine Sewn Binding

2012-01-20T10:22:00.004+08:00

I have been wanting to try machine sewn binding for a while and Rita at Red Pepper Quilts has a great tutorial. I thought I would try it on this little quilt I made last year that was in Fat Quarterly issue 5. It has been folded up ever since waiting to be quilted and bound. After trying to machine bind the first side and unpicking it 3 times I nearly gave up, but I am glad I didn't - it all of a sudden came together and the quilt was bound in no time.
It is by no means perfect (see the picture below), but with practise I know I can get better at it. The thing is I actually enjoy hand sewing the binding. I find it quite relaxing and it is a good excuse to sit down and watch something on tv and I love the way hand sewn binding looks. On the other hand I do love how much time can be saved by machine sewing so I am glad I had a go and have a new quilting skill.
I have quilted my Made in Cherry and I think I will have a go at machine sewing the binding on that.

Interesting Things

2012-01-19T11:41:00.003+08:00

My girls are fascinated with the pictures of twins in the latest National Geographic.

Some summer reading:

When God was a Rabbit

How to be a Woman

Poorly Made in China

Rick Stein's Far Eastern Odyssey - every page is mouth watering.

A Sue Codee pendant.

A Miki.o calendar ( sorry a bad picture taken on my icky yellow wall - it is a lovely calendar!)

I made a decision

2012-01-18T08:47:00.002+08:00

Well the husband had the final decision. I still couldn't choose. Thanks for all your input - it is always good to have fresh eyes have a look and give an opinion. Now to decide on how to quilt it ...

Decisions Decisions ...

2012-01-17T11:55:00.001+08:00

A blue or green shot cotton or a red and white polka dot?

Summer

2012-01-16T19:08:00.003+08:00

We are back from a great week in Albany with my parents, sisters, their partners, nieces and nephews. There was swimming, boogie boarding, playgrounds, food (lots of great food!) reading, dvds and unfortunately suck little girls and much vomiting. I can't believe how fast these summer holidays are going, school is not far away.
After a week without sewing meant I really needed to get something done last night. I am joining in the Made in Cherry quilt along. I am making a small scale version which will be about 32 inches across.
Craft withdrawal last week also made me commit to the Swoon-along, although I have not thought this through at all and it could take a while and Jodie started a rag-rug-along. I have pinned a few lovely rug tutorials, I think it is time to have a go at one.

Wonky Log Cabin

2012-01-08T23:22:00.001+08:00

I think this should be my year of fearless quilting. I have already tried to take that approach with my clothes sewing. I have tried new patterns and fabrics in the last year and much of my wardrobe is now handmade. There are many quilting techniques, ideas and patterns that I want to try and some of those have been on the to do list for a few years.
One is the wonky log cabin. I have promised my Mum a dress for her birthday, but she really needs to come and stay with me while I make it so I thought I would make a little wall hanging for her. I decided to have a go at a wonky log cabin and not think too much about the process. This is the result. I was really worried after I cut the block into quarters that I had made a big mistake and I should have left it as a wonky square, but now it is finished I am really happy with it and the best thing - so is my Mum.
I used scraps of some patterned fabrics and the solids (except the cream) are Kaffe Fasset and I love them. The colors are amazing. I can't believe it was the first the I have used them I will definitely he using them again soon.

Simplicity 4171

2012-01-05T20:38:00.001+08:00

I am going to attempt to blog from my new iPhone. My computer is away getting fixed so I am very glad I have this phone and am wondering how I ever managed to live without it!
I have wanted to make a shirt dress for a while and had planned on making Simplicity 2246 but then I discovered I had Simplicity 4171 which has more shaping (back and front darts) and also comes in B,C or D cups. I used the D pieces and did not making any other major alterations, just took the hem up a couple of inches and gathered the sleeve instead of pleating it. It was much easier than doing a full bust adjustment.
I used some quilting cotton called Little Apples from Moda by Aneela Hoey.
I love it, it fits perfectly and I can see myself making more in long sleeves when it is cooler.

Molly Jacket

2012-01-03T08:24:00.003+08:00

A few weeks ago I was lucky enought to win some Violette Field Threads patterns from Lisa at A Spoonful of Sugar. The Molly Jacket had been on my list of things to sew for a while. I had really meant to knit the girls some short sleeved cardigans for summer as it can a bit chilly down here in summer, but knitting takes forever compared to sewing. The Molly Jacket is the perfect alternative. I used some light weight denim and lined it with a red and pink spot that Amelia chose. I made a size 5/6 for her and added about 3/4 inch in length. I would add a little more next time. I chopped about 3/4 inch off the sleeve length as it was a little long.
I only had one big red button so that is all I used. I would like to make this again with three buttons and I will definitely make this again. It is a great pattern that went together really easily with easy to follow instructions.

Knitting Bags and Organisation

2011-12-31T09:35:00.003+08:00

I have seen a lot of posts and resolutions for 2012 focusing on organisation and sorting out sewing rooms. I probably should focus on this too. I really need a clear space where I can find what I need and see all my supplies. It would make sewing easier and less frustrating. I think it will need to be done in very small steps otherwise I get overwhelmed and give in.
As a start I made some bags to hold all my knitting projects (yes there are at least 5 things on the go). I used this pattern from In color Order. It is a great pattern - I love sewing sometimes when someone has done all the Maths for me. Sometimes I have to sew and not think too much. I made 2 different sizes. One to fit a hat, socks or shawl in and a bigger one to fit bigger projects like cardigans for the girls in.
Happy New Year to you all and hope you all have a great 2012!

New Look 6972

2011-12-29T08:51:00.003+08:00

Amelia wanted a dress for Christmas from this green Denyse Schmidt fabric. I was going to make a Oliver & S Jump Rope Dress, but Amelia had other ideas and insisted on New Look 6972 View B using the pockets from the the Jump Rope Dress (there is not much made in this house anymore without those pockets). I am glad she chose this pattern, it probably took me less than half the time of the Jump Rope Dress which meant much less late night sewing last week. I used my tutorial for the headband.

Colette Parfait Dress

2011-12-27T19:53:00.003+08:00

After making a muslin for the Colette Parfait dress over 6 weeks ago I finally have one finished. I loved this one when I saw it and have made one pretty much the same. I used a navy and white spotted cotton from Spotlight. The muslin fit pretty well and the only change I really made was adding a dart to the front on the side of the bodice. This is the first Colette pattern I have made and I was so excited to cut out a muslin to my measurements and have it nearly fit perfectly (something that really does not happen with the big pattern companies). The instructions were easy to follow and there was nothing really tricky about it, especially if you just follow one step at a time. I think this might be the perfect summer dress and I think I need to make another one soon.

Butterick 3768

2011-12-24T09:40:00.003+08:00

I finished all the Christmas sewing yesterday and thought I should make myself a new Christmas skirt. I used a vintage pattern - Butterick 3768. There is no date on the pattern, but it is obviously from the 70s.

The fabric is red cotton spots from Spotlight. The skirt is cut in one piece. So some is cut on the grain, some against and some ends up on the bias. If I made it again (and I have no doubt I will) I would probably use a very soft cotton so it falls nicely from the hips. I think the lawn you can buy at Spotlight would be great.

In the pattern it is meant to wrap at the back and tie at the front, but I am going to wear it the opposite way so I waited until I had finished and then put the pocket on so it would be on the front. I also cut the pocket a little smaller as it is a huge pocket.

The only downside to this pattern is because the skirt is cut in one piece it uses more fabric that a normal skirt (I think I used a bit under 2 metres), but luckily I am short as a tall person would need ever more. If you are looking for the pattern - search Etsy I found mine there.

Merry Christmas everyone I hope you all have a wonderful day wherever you and whatever you are doing!

Dresses and Shorts

2011-12-22T21:58:00.003+08:00

I made a few dresses for the girls from Simplicity 2437. They all seem to have grown in the last month and suddenly everything from last year is way too short. The same size for all three, just shorter for Eva's dress. I added some of my favourite pockets (Oliver & S Puppet Show shorts or Jump Rope Dress) in contrasting fabric.

I think these might be the best shorts ever. Red and White spots - how could they not be. Pattern - Oliver & S Puppet Show shorts.

Loganberry Tiramisu

2011-12-21T12:03:00.003+08:00

Loganberry Tiramisu using this recipe. I used a pink moscato instead of marsala and loganberries from our bush which is spreading rapidly. I think there will have to be some cutting back after it has finished fruiting.

Simplicity 2437

2011-12-19T14:35:00.003+08:00

I seemed to have left the Christmas sewing until the last minute, but that is nothing new. Simplicity 2437 is very similar to some dresses I made a couple of years ago, which were based on a picture I had seen and cobbled together from different patterns and a bit of free form pattern drafting. It still never fit perfectly so I thought I would try this pattern for the girl's cousins for Christmas.
I am glad I did, all the pieces fit together perfectly and it was very easy to sew. I made a few changes. I cut a size 5 as all the cousins are a bit taller then Eva and added a ruffle at the bottom as it is meant to be shirt length, not dress length. I did not cut out the facing and just bound the neckline with bias binding.
I think the next one I make will have pockets from contrasting fabric. It is one of those very forgiving patterns and the size 5 fits Eva and the twins (which means I don't have to trace another size - I am not a fan of tracing patterns). The length is the only thing that needs altering.

A matching hat.

A half metre skirt.

Big Butt Baby Pants

2011-12-15T07:19:00.002+08:00

How cute it this pattern? And the perfect thing to make for little ones for Christmas. For this one I used light weight denim and some cotton I found at Spotlight. I love the bottoms that you can roll up, it means these will fit for a bit longer.

Spiderweb Mini Quilt

2011-12-14T07:28:00.002+08:00

Last year when Amy requested Spider Web blocks for the Around the Block Quilt Bee I thought I should make a practice block. It is made using this tutorial, which is very clear and easy to follow. I found it recently during a clean up and thought I would make 3 more blocks and turn them into a mini quilt.
I quilted about 1/2" each side of the seams.

I'm going to hang it in the hall way which is currently black walls except for the gorgeous mini quilt Mel sent me. I think it might become a gallery of mini quilts when I get around to making some more.

Spiderweb Quilt

2011-12-12T05:56:00.002+08:00

What to do when you have soooo much Christmas sewing to do and you don't know where to start?
Make a spiderweb mini quilt.

Baked Loganberry Cheesecake

2011-12-09T18:56:00.004+08:00

The loganberry bush is covered at the moment. Well I think they are loganberries, if anyone thinks differently let me know.
Some of them were turned into a baked cheesecake (yes it is a little burnt - after 2 years using this electric oven I am still not used to it).
The recipe is adapted from one in an old Marie Claire/Donna Hay book.

125g Arrowroot Biscuits
125g ground almonds
125g melted butter
Combine the above and press into a springform cake tin and put in the fridge

250g soft cream cheese
250g ricotta cheese
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
200ml sour cream
1/2 - 1 tbs grated lemon rind
2 tbs lemon juice
1 tbs cornflour mixed with 1 tbs water
250g berries.
Combine the above in a food processor or mixer and mix until smooth. Por over the base and bake at 150 degrees for about 50 minutes or until just set.

We pulled up the garlic last week before it rained and they are hanging under the house. It has such amazing flavour.

Jump Rope Dress

2011-12-07T12:44:00.002+08:00

An Oliver & S Jump Rope Dress for Grace. I love this pattern and the finished dress, but this pattern certainly doesn't sew itself. There is hours of work in these dresses. I used some Denyse Schmidt fabric from Spotlight and made a matching hat too.

New Look 6674

2011-12-06T11:19:00.002+08:00

I am back from a really wonderful weekend at the Fremantle Arts Centre Bazaar. If there is anywhere you want to be on a really hot weekend in Perth it is sitting in the grounds there under the trees. The only downside was seeing the bar from my stall and all the people walking past with icy cold beer while I was trying to work.
In amongst the market sewing the last few weeks I realised I needed three days of good clothes for the bazaar. I made New Look 6674 as it looked quite comfortable. It was very straightforward to make. I used a cotton/polyester (I think) blend that had been in my stash for ages. It looks ok in the photos, but it is actually too big and and it gapes at the top. You definitely need a singlet under it.

I tried it again in some lovely lawn I bought at Spotlight in a size smaller and it fits better around the bottom and is fine with a singlet under it, but would need major alterations if you did not want to wear one. I love the lawn - it was perfect in 36 degree heat. I went back to Spotlight yesterday and bought some more in different patterns. I used a press stud on the first one instead of a button, but on the second I just sewed on velcro with the machine which worked really well. I also managed to machine stitch everything on the second one (no hand sewing at all) as I wanted to finish it fast. So the facing on the band was machine stitched down as I top stitched the band on the outside.

The Winner is ...

2011-11-29T17:58:00.002+08:00

The winner of Modern Blocks is #13.
Which is Rachel!
Let me know your address and I will get it in the mail.

Butterick 4443

2011-11-25T10:42:00.002+08:00

A very warm yesterday inspired me to finish Butterick 4443 and wore I it out last night. I made a quick muslin of the bodice and didn't need many alterations. The only big one was changing the shape at the back at the top. It was gaping so I cut it into a v and problem solved.
Once the muslin was finished it really didn't take long. It is lined which used to put me off patterns in the past, but it is easier than facings I think and sits much better.

I think I took 1 1/2 inches off the length

The fabric is Secret Garden by Sandi Henderson from Michael Miller. Available here and here.

Modern Blocks

2011-11-24T08:29:00.002+08:00

My copy of Modern Blocks - 99 Quilt Blocks from your Favorite Designers is here! So many interesting blocks. Pieced, appliqued, foundations pieces - there is something for everyone.
I have two blocks in there - Higgledy Piggledy

and Stuck in the Middle.

I have one copy to giveaway (I am sorry but it is for Australians only as the postage costs for a book this heavy are completely ridiculous). You don't have to do anything tricky, just leave a comment by Tuesday 29th November 6pm telling me what you are sewing at the moment.

Dress Sewing and Broad Beans

2011-11-23T12:44:00.005+08:00

It is 35 degrees today. I am taking a break from market sewing to sew a dress. I think the combination at the top is the winner today. Butterick 4443.
Although I really love this pattern, but there are a lot more pieces and it is fully lined and the pockets look like a bit of work. Vogue 8577.

Mmm I seem to own quite a few shirtmaker dress patterns (and there is more). Simplicity 2403, Buterick 5315 and Simplicity 4171.

In other news we picked 2 zucchinis yesterday - it is going to be a long zucchini season and I think I have found the best broad bean salad
Blanched broad beans
Cherry tomatoes
Red Onion
Feta
Mint
Olive Oil and White Wine Vinegar.
Yum!

This week...

2011-11-19T08:26:00.004+08:00

Making carrot cake

Making five spice caramel pork (thanks to Stacey's tweets about it)

Back at the gym on the treadmill

Free motiong quilting

Decided jogging and free motion quilting are quite similar - when you are in the zone, both are very good and when you aren't then it is bad and not fun at all.

Sewing, sewing sewing for markets. Upmarket is next Sunday 27th and Freo Bazaar is the 2nd - 4th December.

Simplicity 2152

2011-11-16T11:22:00.002+08:00

I think this Echino fabric is some of my favourite of all time. I only bought a metre of it (I have no idea why I did not buy more) and wanted to make a skirt from it, which is difficult when I only had a small amount.
Simplicity 2152 was perfect with the bonus of having pockets. I used a denim for the pockets tops and the band and band facing and it came out the perfect length. Another Simplicity pattern with easy to follow instructions that fit together perfectly.

Simplicity 2226

2011-11-15T11:27:00.005+08:00

Simplicity 2226. I made view C without the belt loops or the tie using some cotton (I think it might be Japanese cotton) I bought at Tessuti maybe 18 months ago when I was in Melbourne. It had been sitting in my stash waiting for the right project.
I found this a pretty simple skirt to make, I glanced at the instructions briefly and then did my own thing (there is a sew a long over at Noodlehead if you need help) and all the pieces fit together perfectly. I did take out some fullness in the front and back so there is not as much gathering. The last thing my hips need is too much gathering at over them.
I think if I made it again I would make the pockets a little less deep as I can't reach the bottom of them when I am standing. I really thought when I was half way though making it that it was going to be dreadful on me with the gathers, but was pleasantly surprised when I put it on and I do love a skirt with pockets.
Worn with my new Lotta clogs - the first thing with heels I have bought in about 8 years. So, so comfortable and with a little gentle stretching my duck feet actually fit in them.

Sunshine

2011-11-14T20:59:00.003+08:00

Every verandah needs a little sunshine.
From an old Sunshine Harvester.
Thanks to my Dad for finding it, framing and hanging it for me.

Excitement!

2011-11-11T11:02:00.004+08:00

I'm just a little bit excited. I am sharing here as I don't think anyone in my house quite understands how exciting this is. My new dress form came in the mail today. A big thanks to Bec for her tweet about the Lincraft sale last weekend and the special on dress forms. Mail to WA can be verrryy slooww from the Eastern States, but I ordered this on Sunday it must have been posted on Monday and arrived today. Very impressed.
She doesn't have a name yet. I asked the 3 year old for ideas, not sure what I was thinking, completely ridiculous name ideas.
She is modelling my second Hotpatterns Cosmopolitan Dress.

Sewing Ideas

2011-11-10T11:12:00.003+08:00

I have markets and other sewing deadlines looming and there hasn't been much chance for other sewing yet this week, but I am thinking about clothes for me as I sew.
I have seen a few skirts from Simplicity 2226 and think I will try it. I am not so sure about all the gathers at the front, but I will never know unless I give it a go.

I love this dress from Modcloth I discovered on Pinterest. McCalls 3537 (found on Etsy) is quite similar.

I have made a muslin of the Colette Parfait dress on the weekend and made a few adjustments so I need to make another muslin to check them.

I love the skirt on this vintage pattern - great pockets. I am not so sure about the top so I may make the skirt and use another dress pattern for the top.

Shirt - Ottobre 3/2006

2011-11-09T13:47:00.002+08:00

A little shirt for Evie from Ottobre 3/2006. Made from a pink floral voile I bought last year at Spotlight.
I made size 104 and the only modification I made was leaving the elastic off the sleeves.
Gorgeous pattern for little girls, except for the zip at the back. Evie is in and out of dress ups and her clothes all day long so a zip at the back has caused a few problems. So as much as I love it I don't think I will be making another one.

Favourite Toy

2011-11-04T08:06:00.002+08:00

I think the best value children's toy we own is the magna doodle. We actually own three. I first bought one when the twins turned 2 and it was used so much we bought another and then another when Eva could use it.

It is so lovely tofind these little pictures and messages left all over the house, but to be perfectly honest not all the messages I get given are nice and loving. Grace wrote last night I was horrible when I was cross. Which is true, I don't like being cross either, so today I will breathe, relax and hopefully we will all have a good day.

Quilt for Jane - Tutorial #2

2011-11-02T11:13:00.006+08:00

I had planned to just sew these blocks together in rows, but as I had pressed all the seams to one side in the half square triangles I knew where they join there would be a lot of fabric and very hard to get the seams to meet perfectly. So inspired by these lovely quilts I decided to add strips between the blocks.
Each strip was 3 1/2" by 9 1/2" and I needed 58.
I made

5 rows with 7 blocks in each and 6 white strips alternating with

4 rows with 6 blocks plus 2 end blocks and 7 white strips.

I spread the whole thing out on the floor and made sure the colours and fabrics were evenly spread. (There can be a lot of work in making sure something looks randomly placed).
I then sewed the rows together and pressed all the seams towards the white strips. Then I sewed the rows together.

Finished size - 81" x 81". I am still not sure how I will quilt this, I am thinking maybe straight lines or freemotion circles. I am not sure when I will get the time to baste it (this requires a lot of furniture moving for a quilt this big in my house) and get it quilted, but I guarantee you will have it by next winter Jane!

Quilt for Jane - Tutorial #1

2011-11-01T10:41:00.003+08:00

As promised a little tutorial for the quilt I made for my sister Jane (and yes it has the original name of Quilt for Jane as that is how I have been thinking of it).
For each block you will need:

4 squares of patterned fabric 3 1/2" x 3 1/2"

1 square of white fabric 3 1/2" x 3 1/2"

2 squares of patterned fabric 3 7/8" x 3 7/8"

2 square of white fabric 3 7/8" x 3 7/8"

Draw a line with a pencil diagonally across the back of both 3 7/8" squares and then place on top of the patterned 3 7/8" squares, right sides together. Sew 1/4" each side of the drawn line.

Cut on the drawn line.

Press the seam towards the patterned fabric. Trim each block to 3 1/2"

Sew into three rows as shown in the pictures.

Press the seams in the top and bottom rows towards the middle and the seams in the middle row towards the oustside.

Sew the three rows together and press the seams towards the outside of the block.

I made 59 of these blocks.

I made 8 edge blocks for the edges of my quilt.

For each one you wil need

1 square of patterned fabric 3 1/2" x 3 1/2"

1 square of patterned fabric 3 7/8" x 3 7/8"

1 square of white fabric 3 7/8" x 3 7/8"

Make 2 half square triangle as above and sew to each side of the other square.

Tomorrow I will show you how I put it together.

Onion 2007

2011-10-29T13:07:00.003+08:00

If you need a quick easy raglan knit dress pattern I recommend Onion 2007. It has darts above the bust and on top of the sleeves which gives it a great shape. The only problem was the neck binding was a little long and I should have made it shorter so it sits a little better. I used some king of stretchy knit with very thin stripes I found at Textile Traders which is thicker than most knits. Not much else to say - quick and very comfortable, my kind of dress.

Hot Patterns Cosmopolitan Dress

2011-10-27T08:30:00.002+08:00

I know everyone was making this about four years ago and I have been meaning to for about that long. I am glad I finally got around to it. My new favourite dress pattern - the Hot Patterns Cosmopolitan Dress.
Excuse the facial expressions, these were taken early this morning. I used a very drapey, almost too drapey jersey fabric which I wasn't going to be too worried about if this was a disaster (I thought I would try this without a muslin). I cut according to my measurements, but by the end I had taken it in a whole size. I cut a new sleeve as I wanted something I can wear all summer and the pattern had a choice of two different long sleeves.
I have read that the Hot Patterns instructions are a little scarce, but I think that is only because there are no illustrations. I read through them and then didn't glance at them again. I think if you have made a stretchy dress the instructions are all pretty much the same.
I also altered the neckline and left off the facings and added a binding like this tutorial, but I did not cut any height off first as I had read it was a little low cut.
I wasn't planning on making the whole thing yesterday, but 15 minutes here and there and it was done. I already have some fabric ready to cut another one.

Family Reunion Dress

2011-10-26T15:27:00.002+08:00

My niece Lyssie is 5 today and she requested a pink and white dress. I made the Oliver and S Family Reunion Dress. This is a gorgeous little dress with pintucks and buttons up the back.
I used this pink and white floral fabric that has been in my stash for a while. I have no idea where is came from. It is kind of Liberty-ish, but definitely doesn't feel it. It is quite stiff and fells a bit like polished cotton. I nearly didn't use it as I thought this dress would be better in a voile, but I don't have that much pink and white in the stash so I hope it softens as it is washed.

I made a size 5 and I tried it on Eva (3 1/2) and it is a little big and long, but I would probably use this size for her but make it shorter. I tried it on the girls (6 1/2) and it fit, but was tight across this chest so I would make them a 6 and a bit longer. They all loved them and added it to the list of thing they want me to make them.

Quilt Top

2011-10-25T13:01:00.005+08:00

I have finished all the Denyse Schmidt blocks and was so excited to see how they looked I sewed and sewed yesterday until I had a quilt top. I love it. I love all the fabrics together and I think this simple block really shows them off.

Originally I was just going to make blocks and stack them together, but I hadn't pressed any of my seams open and feeling quite lazy this week I didn't want to have to deal with trying to make them match perfectly and the thickness of them so I thought I would add strips between each block and eliminate the problem of sewing a half square triangle seam to another half square triangle seam.

I am hoping to get some time in the next week to write up a mini tutorial on how I made the blocks and put the quilt together.

Single Girl

2011-10-24T06:47:00.004+08:00

The Single Girl is finished!

This quilt is huge, so I quilted it with straight lines, the easiest thing I could think of and I love all the ones I have seen quilted the same way. I agonised for ages over the right colour for the background and finally chose artichoke in Kona cotton and I am very happy with it.

Not the best photos, but it started raining as we started to take them. With this finished I can tick one present off the Christmas list. This is for my sister (and I am not giving away secrets, I have consulted with her as I made it). Now to start on the rest of the Christmas sewing.

Quilts, Dresses and Roses

2011-10-22T08:57:00.005+08:00

More shoo fly blocks - I can see the end in sight.

When I bought these fabrics there were a few I loved, some were ok and a few I didn't love at all, but I liked how they all looked together. As I have sew them my mind has definitely changed about a few and now it is hard to pick out favourites.

Although I do love these two a lot at the moment.

As I have sewn this week I have thought about making some more fitting dresses. I think the Denyse Schmidt fabrics I have been using for the quilt would be perfect in summer dresses especially Simplicity 2403 (below) and the Colette dresses such as Parfait and Macaron. I have been hesitating about trying these for fear of wasting fabric and wasting time making something completely unwearable, but after making a few muslins last week my new resolution is to not hesitate and just it a go. Muslins do not take a lot of time and once you make one you can make a dress knowing it will actually fit. And if it all does go wrong, then it is only fabric you can cut up for kids or dolls clothes.

If you have ever wondered about pruning your roses with a chainsaw - don't hesitate. Mine are looking better than ever at the moment.

School House Tunic #2

2011-10-21T09:54:00.002+08:00

I have worn my first School House Tunic a lot this winter and wanted to try it with some lighter weight cotton. This is a voile I bought at Spotlight at the start of the year. Made using exactly the same modifications I made to the first one. Still not the most flattering tunic, but so comfortable and it goes perfectly with my new Elk beads.

As I made Amelia's Shirt last week I remembered that Jorth had made some pants from the same issue of Ottobre. I had not even noticed them before, but I loved hers made in denim so I made a pair for Grace from some soft lightweight denim. The same denim I used for the Puppet Show Shorts.

Ottobre Sewing

2011-10-19T08:01:00.002+08:00

I have been wondering if I can make most of the girls clothes for this summer. I don't think I can commit to making them all. I know I will end up buying them a few basics like t-shirts and leggings, but everything else I think I will try and sew.
This shirt is from Ottobre 2/2005. There has been a post it note stuck on this pattern since the twins could fit into the smallest size and now they need the biggest size I thought I should get round to making it. I didn't put on the ties, I thought a few buttons would be easier. I bought this fabric at Spotlight last year - it is a beautiful weight for shirts.

A dress for Eva from Ottobre 4/2011. An easy quick dress. Great as a sundress or with a t-shirt and leggings. I omitted the big bow which I could see just getting in the way.

Puppet Show Shorts

2011-10-18T19:53:00.002+08:00

I made a couple of pairs of Puppet Show Shorts (now available as a digital download) last week. A size 3/4 ish for Eva (I will definitely make sure they 4 next time) and I sized up the pattern to a 6 for Amelia. Great pattern, easy, great instructions. I love them and the girls love them. The perfect shorts pattern.
These are the most sensible pictures I managed to take.

Damson

2011-10-16T17:22:00.002+08:00

Knitting is meant to be soothing and relaxing, not nail biting and stressful. I really wasnt't sure if I would get this finished before I ran out of yarn, but I did with less than 2 metres left over.
Here it is pre-blocking.
I love the colour, the pattern and the yarn. This is a fantastic, easy pattern. I didn't do the garter stitch section, it is just all stocking stitch. More details on ravelry.

Muslins

2011-10-15T19:34:00.003+08:00

It feels like I have sewed all day, but I have nothing to actually show yet. Today was muslin sewing day. I have so many patterns I want to sew, but I know they will all need a few adjustments. I found some cheap old fabric I don't like in the stash and just went for it.
I have had this book (ISBN 4579111831) for a while and I was seriously thinking this tunic on the front would never work on me. With a few adjustments it is not too bad and made out of voile it will make a cool summer dress. It is still not the perfect fit, but it is not going to get better unless I decide to add a zip to the side, but it is no worse than the schoolhouse tunic.
I really meant to make Colette Crepe Dress last year and never got around to it. I think I have managed to get the top fitting, but it is a little tricky to do by yourself. I have some very soft lightweight denim I found at Spotlight last year to use. I am still not sure whether to do a contrast tie.
Another pattern which has the potential to be really great or a complete disaster is Vogue 1228. I have read many reviews saying the front was low and they were right. It was quite tricky to adjust this. I took it up at the shoulder and it is still not perfect, but I will give it a go. This really is an easy straightforward pattern otherwise.

Progress

2011-10-13T08:19:00.003+08:00

I've completed a few more blocks. I really love how these are looking and the fabrics in them, but I am over making them now and just want them to be done so I can put the quilt together. I really love the green and blue fabric on top, I might have to look for more of it.
I am up to the bottom part of my Damson shawl and wondering if I will need a second skein to finish it.

Yesterday was Strawberry Jam day and while I was in the cooking mood I tried Salty Caramel Ice-cream from my new ice-cream book. Mmmm I'm thinking I should practise making caramel before I try putting it in ice-cream. Then I made Chicken Phanaeng from South East Asian Food. Yum. Will definitely be making that again.

Holidays

2011-10-11T17:26:00.003+08:00

We are in the middle of the school holidays and besides the few days in Albany where it was typical Albany weather it has been beautiful. The children were outside from 8am until 6pm yesterday with the wonderful neighbours children and I only saw them for food. By the end of the day they had made a flower garden and a scarecrow and there were plans for many more projects.

Shave a Sheep was great on the rainy days we had. You can't go wrong with anything lego.
Macarons have always scared me a bit so I thought I would try the Donna Hay packet ones. They may not look like something on Masterchef, but they were very easy and I am ready to try them from scratch.

Butterfly Dreaming

2011-10-09T18:31:00.003+08:00

The new Homespun Magazine (No. 101 Vol 12 No. 10) kids issue is out and my latest quilt Butterfly Dreaming is in there! It is made from the gorgeous Flower Sugar fabrics by Lecien.
I loved making this quilt and my girls loved helping me, organising the fabrics for each block and helping me place the blocks in their final spots. I must hunt out the extra Flower Sugar fabric I bought and make some cushions to go with it.

Fabric Shopping

2011-10-05T16:39:00.002+08:00

It is not often I get to go fabric shopping without children, but I had some time the other day in Spotlight. There is a lot of fabric jammed onto the racks in Midland and you need time to search as a lot of fabric has been put into random places. I found this stash. I think there is a colour theme emerging for summer. There was a definite lack of good red fabric this time. If any of these came in red I would have snapped them up.

Hat Knitting

2011-10-04T11:04:00.002+08:00

A couple of hats for presents. Both knit using Cascade 220. I can see why there are so many projects using it on ravelry. Nice yarn at a good price. I really enjoyed knitting with it and love the feel of these hats.
The first is a Zumthor. Love the folded brim. I think I may need one for myself by next winter.

Love this hat - such a quick and easy knit. More details on ravelry.

Wandering the Moor

2011-09-29T17:07:00.002+08:00

Wandering the Moor is blocked and finished and I am wearing it as I type. Love it. The yarn is so soft and it blocked to a great size, not too small and not too big. I treated myself to some blocking wires as I can see myself using them a lot in the future. More details on ravelry.

After winter returned at the start of the week it was lovely to have sun today and be out in the garden.

Perth Upmarket

2011-09-29T07:26:00.001+08:00

Perth Upmarket is on this Sunday at UWA. I will be in my usual spot in the Undercroft. Come and say hi!

What I'm Reading

2011-09-28T11:44:00.002+08:00

I have just started reading Buried Treasure by Victoria Finlay. I read Colour - Travels through the Paintbox a few years ago and loved it. I didn't want it to end. They are a travel, history, sociology book all rolled into one. My idea of a perfect book.
I am also reading, well drooling, over these. My sister recently sent me The Free Range Cook by Annabel Langbein and the new updated South East Asian Food by Rosemary Brissenden. When I saw Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams at home I had to get a copy. Y.U.M.

What to do with left over sock yarn #1

2011-09-26T15:50:00.002+08:00

Tangled earphones can drive me a little crazy so I thought I would give this a go.
Easy Peasy even for the slightly crochet challenged such as myself. I think it took about an hour and a little bit of left over sock yarn. Ravelled here.

Strawberry Frozen Yoghurt

2011-09-25T12:11:00.003+08:00

There were yummy cheap strawberries in the shop this week and Grace requested frozen yoghurt. I used this recipe and it is good. Even the people in my house who apparently only eat ice-cream not yoghurt loved it. I used 2/3 cup sugar, but next time I think I would only use 1/3 to 1/2 a cup.
It says in the recipe to eat straight away or it will go icy. Mine still looks great 24 hours later and has a great texture.

Bees in your Feet

2011-09-23T09:35:00.002+08:00

Apparently Eva has bees in her foot. I said it was probably pins and needles. She looked at me quite strangely and said no, definitely bees.

I don't want to jinx it, but I may be ready for Upmarket without having a complete nervous breakdown. Now if only we had a reliable car to get there. Crossing fingers we can have a couple of weeks without it needing to go to the mechanics.

Wandering the Moor

2011-09-20T10:50:00.002+08:00

How do people who don't knit cope with life? There is nothing so calming as knitting. It definitely makes me feel a lot less stabby.
My Wandering the Moor has been neglected for months, but I picked it up a couple of days ago and have knit the rest of the stocking stitch and am ready to start the lace.

Matchy Matchy Skirts

2011-09-17T11:31:00.002+08:00

I don't dress them the same on purpose. I gave them all a choice from the stash (and to be honest - there is a lot of choice in there!) and this is what they wanted. Matchy matchy skirts.

Hippos and Hats

2011-09-13T16:37:00.003+08:00

Lots of market sewing over the weekend - hats and hippos.

Picnic Blouse

2011-09-12T07:52:00.003+08:00

I tried the Oliver & S Picnic Blouse over the weekend. Grace chose a red gingham (definitely a child of mine). As always with Oliver & S patterns this one has great instructions. This is one of their easier patterns and really did not take long to make. I made a size 6 which fits perfectly with a little room for growth. I tried it on Eva who us 3 1/2 and she could wear it as a dress with leggings, if the sleeves were just shortened a little.
Modelled with a skirt I made last year and new short (unbrushed) hair.

Elephants

2011-09-08T11:36:00.003+08:00

All of a sudden Upmarket is only three weeks away so I have been sewing. My pile of felt has been turned into a pile of elephants.
Two little quilt tops have been made. Now I might have a little break and knit in the sun on the verandah while Eva makes mud pies in the sand pit.

Something New

2011-09-02T16:36:00.003+08:00

A couple of skeins of Cascade 220 at the front for hats, maybe a Zumthor and a Boy Hat. Three balls of BFL sock yarn I dyed this week (I can't get colour in the photo right, it is a slightly darker shade of grey) probably for a Drifting.

From shades of grey to a rainbow explosion - Amelia's blanket is slowly progressing. I should probably weave in the ends as I go, I know I won't want to at the end.

Felt

2011-08-31T16:37:00.002+08:00

I have been dyeing some new felt for elephants. I love the mottled colours. Especially the green. I might have to dye some yarn that green and knit myself a cardigan.

Milo for Edward

2011-08-29T12:19:00.002+08:00

The girls have a new cousin called Edward. I have only seen pictures so far, but he his gorgeous. I had to cast on a Milo for him straight away. I love this pattern, it is so perfect for boys or girls and the pattern is so easy to follow and quick to knit.

Golden Wheat

2011-08-27T12:25:00.002+08:00

Just as the sun has come out and Spring looks like it will be here soon I have finished my Golden Wheat Cardigan. I am pretty sure winter hasn't completely gone so I should be able to wear it a little this year. I used Bendigo 12 ply Rustic in Russet which is lovely colour and the yarn really softens up after you wash it.

Another Onion 2026 and a Review

2011-08-21T17:54:00.004+08:00

Another dress/smock made using Onion pattern 2026. The black was jersey from Spotlight and the patterned fabric was on sale at Knitwit a few months ago.

A have almost finished To Die for: Is fashion wearing out the world by Lucy Siegle. I think this is a must read. It is a book about the toll that fashion has on the environment and on the people that work in the industry. If you have ever wondered how some chain stores can make clothes so cheaply the answers are here and they are not pretty. As I sewed the dress above I wondered where the cotton came from and crossed my fingers it wasn't picked by forced child labour in Uzbekhistan and wondered how it was dyed and printed and the impact on the environment.

This book has definitely made me think about what I will buy in the future and what questions I want to ask about where and how fabrics and clothes are made. I hope with more and more people doing the same that we will be able to find the answers to these questions.

Strawberry Skirt

2011-08-19T11:34:00.003+08:00

Eva has taken to wearing skirts with everything. Over jeans, over leggings, under smocks, over her pyjamas. She discovered this very cute strawberry fabric in my stash (I think I found it ages ago on the bargain rack in Spotlight) so this morning we whipped up a new skirt.

Knitting and Crochet

2011-08-11T16:34:00.002+08:00

I seem to have lost my crafting mojo the last few weeks. I am hoping it returns soon, I have lots of ideas, but no enthusiasm for actually doing them.
Eva and I have been cooking, reading and playing and there has been a little crocheting and knitting.
I have been slowly working on this blanket for the girls. Not really my colours, but this is exactly what they requested.
I am up to the arms on my Golden Wheat Cardigan. I really should get a move on and finish it so I can wear it while it is still winter.

Sewing and Reading

2011-08-07T11:31:00.002+08:00

Slowly, slowly more blocks are being made.
The pile of books currently on the bedside table.

To Die For - Is fashion wearing out the world? by Lucy Siegle. I have read the first chapter - I think it will be a very interesting book.

Here on Earth by Tim Flannery

Stolen Harvest by Vandana Shiva

Music & Silence by Rose Tremain

Sandbox Pants

2011-08-05T09:10:00.002+08:00

I have finished Eva's pants. Love this pattern for girls as well as boys.

It has finally stpped raining and I could take a picture of the new shelves on the verandah. Really cheap shelves and some spray paint from Bunnings and now I am not tripping over shoes every time I step out of the door.

Mermaid Doll

2011-08-04T08:56:00.002+08:00

Clever Susie has been designing great craft activities for kids. I was lucky enough to win a mermaid doll and I knew Amelia would love it. They are available in Spotlight so Grace and I are going to go and choose a different one for her and then we are having a doll making afternoon.

I think I cut out these Sandbox pants to take to craft camp in May and just rediscovered them on my cutting table. Perfect as Evie has had a little growth spurt and is in need of more pants.

Sewing and Sickness

2011-08-01T12:21:00.003+08:00

I had so many plans for last week, the first week back at school, but unfortunately sickness took over the house and not much was done at all. Luckily before it did I finished some platypii and they are on there way to Antipodean Love in Melbourne.
Crossing fingers everything can get back to some kind of normal this week.

Pencil Cases

2011-07-25T07:27:00.002+08:00

It is the last day of school holidays. As usual they seem to have flown by and we could all do with another week.
The girls needed new pencil cases, the zips had both gone on the ones we bought at the start of the year. Hoping these last a lot longer.

Gardening and Sewing

2011-07-22T11:14:00.003+08:00

It has been a really busy few days here. My parents and in-laws have all been here helping in the garden, which was starting to resemble a jungle. All the roses have been pruned and the garden beds weeded and it looks amazing.
In craft news I have cut into the stack of Denyse Schmidt fabric and started a quilt for my other sister. Simple blocks, but they look great in this fabric.

A couple more pillowcases finished so now the girls have one each.

Dotty Socks

2011-07-20T07:16:00.002+08:00

The never ending Dotty Socks are finally finished. I am not sure why they took so long. It is a straight forward pattern and the Madelinetosh Sock is beautiful to knit with (and wear).
All the details on ravelry.

Around The Block

2011-07-18T08:34:00.002+08:00

My last 2 blocks for Around The Block are finished. I have really enjoyed being part of a quilting bee. I have tried new techniques and worked with fabrics and colours I wouldn't normally work with and it is really interesting to see what other people do with the same set of instructions.

Single Girl Quilt Top

2011-07-17T08:07:00.002+08:00

The Single Girl quilt top is finished. Well worth the effort and pain of cutting out all the templates. The sewing was not difficult. The curves are so huge that with a few pins it is easy to sew the pieces together. Now it just needs basting and quilting which I think will need to wait until after the craft room clean up. This quilt is huge and I think I will need all the space on the sewing table I can get.

The Farm

2011-07-16T07:44:00.003+08:00

Bike riding, mud, puddles, lambs, bush walking, rock puddles, toasting marshmallows, cousins. Life doesn't get much better when you are 3 or 6.

Single Girl Progress 2

2011-07-09T14:31:00.002+08:00

The Single Girl quilt is still a work in progress. I have finished all the block quarters and I can see the end in sight. The weather has been freezing though for weeks and I would rather be knitting at the moment than sewing. I am going to make myself sew a little of it each day and try and get it finished.

Kitchen Aid

2011-07-06T11:51:00.003+08:00

There has been less crafting this week and more baking due to the arrival of this! No pictures of the cupcakes and the blue velvet cake based on this recipe. Cake presentation is not my strong point, but they were all eaten fast so they must have been delicious.
And with it came the perfect size box for Evie to be happy in all day.

Red Coat

2011-07-03T11:47:00.002+08:00

I bought this pattern in 2004 in Denmark and I have been going to make it every winter since, but for one reason or another it never happened. The completely freezing weather this week, the lack of coats in my cupboard and the realisation that the cardi I am knitting won't be magically finished today meant I needed to sew.
It was a very easy pattern, no lining and only 4 pieces. I also 'cheated' on the buttons by using press studs and sewing buttons on the outside. I thought the coat needed big buttons and new if I tried big button holes they would look a little untidy. These are the last of some hand made buttons my Mum bought back from Sydney a few years ago.

In Bloom - pattern

2011-07-02T22:13:00.002+08:00

I seem to be in the pattern writing zone at the moment (it is a rare thing so I am trying to take advantage of it) so I finished off In Bloom. Now available here and here.
This quilt is a great one if you have a spare jelly roll lying aroung. It uses pretty much the whole jelly roll and a few metres of background fabric for the top.

Crossroads Quilt

2011-07-01T10:00:00.002+08:00

I finally wrote up the pattern for the quilt I made for my Mum last Christmas. It is now available here and here.

My Pdf patterns are now available at the Fat Quarter Shop!

Random things from this week

2011-06-30T13:24:00.003+08:00

Cute things 3 year olds say - "Mum I have the bless yous" (sneezes)

Not sute things 3 year olds say - "I've cleaned the toilet for you"

I made Soozs Tom Ka Gai (sooooo yummy).

Catching up on blocks for the quilting bee.

Green Scarf

2011-06-29T12:15:00.003+08:00

I finished my first machine knitted thing. I could just leave you with the pictures and pretend it all went smoothly, but the truth is that there was tears, frogging, yarn jammed in the carriage, random loops and annoyingly they were all user errors. I am glad I used some really nice yarn (Madelinetosh sock in Jade) as it made me persist and fix the mistakes and now I am wearing a lovely new scarf.
Ravelled here.

Scarf

2011-06-28T19:10:00.002+08:00

There was a lot of experimenting with punch cards and patterns today. Cast on and cast offs were practised. There was also a little swearing and frogging. Hopefully there might be a scarf by the end of the night.

Marie Claire Idees

2011-06-23T16:42:00.002+08:00

I have 3 more hats to finish, 8 hippo nostrils to sew on, 3 children to bath and feed and then I am going to lie on the couch near the fire and read the latest Marie Claire Idees my sister picked up for me in France.

Upmarket

2011-06-21T14:19:00.002+08:00

Perth Upmarket is on again this Sunday. I have been madly sewing and there will be lots of new things including bears and quilts. I will be in the same spot in the undercroft. Come and say hi!

Onion 2026

2011-06-20T11:28:00.002+08:00

I think I have a new favourite dress pattern. Onion 2026. I bought a few Onion patterns way back in 2004 when I was in Denmark and really liked them. I have made the fishermans skirt and pants (sadly now out of print) many times. I bought this dress pattern from Shop Onion. When you buy the patterns you are sent the English instructions as a pdf.
I used a grey and black stripe I bought as a remnant from Knitwit. I only had a bit over a metre so I used some black cotton/elastane from Spotlight for the sleeves and arms.
I made my usual changes to the side seams, taking it in at the waist and hips and I also adjusted the sleeves to make them more fitted. The pieces went together perfectly. I think it is great over jeans or leggings and I can see myself making more of these soon.

This top is from yet another Knitwit remnant - I used a pattern from Ottobre 2/2010.

Knitting

2011-06-16T21:45:00.002+08:00

If I just kept one WIP at a time I'd have something finished to show you. Instead I have 3 half finished projects.
Dotty Socks - finally turned the second heel - the end is in sight.
Wandering the Moor shawl.

Golden Wheat - it has been freezing here. I need to knit fast so I can wear it.

All the details are on ravelry.

Quilt Story

2011-06-15T21:52:00.003+08:00

One of my favourite quilts I've made is featured on Quilt Story today! I love the colours and simplicity of the blocks as much now as when I made it. Pop over to read lots of great quilt stories.

Queen Anne's Lace - again

2011-06-13T12:40:00.002+08:00

Another Queen Anne's Lace Scarf. The last one, well for now, I'm sure there may be another one in my future.
Made from Sublime Cashmere Silk Merino Aran - beautifully soft yarn, lovely to wear and I loved the colour. One ball was great, but the other one 'frayed' a lot and broke in a few places and was horrible to work with.

Ravelled here.