My First Swap Contest

I have entered a "SWAP"contest,sponsored by Pattern Review.You can check it out here.

http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/sewingclasses/board.pl?t=22114

"SWAP" means "sewing with a plan".A certain amount of garments are created to mix and matchable wardrobe.This contest requires 11 garments by July 31.I've been wanting to try this for a long time and always chickened out.This time I signed my name on the list and began digging through my fabric stash for summer fabric that matched.I came up with this bundle for my swap.

The colors are orange,tan,creme and 3 prints of the same color scheme.I hope to avoid buying more fabric.I can see a nice dent in my stash.

Friday, I cleaned up my sewing room,changed the serger thread and planned my cutting time.Saturday and Sunday,I cut,marked and interfaced 5 garments,2 top and 3 bottoms.Here are the cut fabrics and pattern choices for the first five.The tan will be walking shorts and a matching safari top.The orange will be a skirt and top.The cream,orange and tan stripe will be pants.

I spent a lot of time sewing the pants and shorts Monday.I had everything I needed on hand.It really pays to plan everything in advance.No emergency trips to the fabric store or wasted time,waiting till morning because I didn't have a zipper,interfacing,ect.

I took my time and enjoyed the process.I'm resisting the urge to rush through,with the deadline in mind.I've got plenty of time and I'll end up with a cool mix and match wardrobe.I really need that.

All of these pattern are "TNT".I know they fit and are kind to my figure.I don't want to spend time fitting and adjusting patterns.I'm almost finished with the both pants and shorts.I did not get any sewing time in today.I'll make up for that tomorrow.

Wish me luck.

Slinky Dress Photos at Last

Please forgive me for not posting anything last week.I've had some crazy problems with my computer.Everything is OK...I think.Here are the pictures of the slinky knit dresses I promised.I finally got my DD to play photographer for me.

I made the flowered one first,then the sleeveless one.I haven't worn either out and about yet.I have some reservation about showing my upper arms.However,it is getting really hot as the season moves toward summer.I think I may need to "get over it".

Another "Threads Magazine"Adventure

This adventure features the March 2007 issue of Threads magazine.The article I choose to test this time is found on page 53-55.It called,"It's a Wrap:Custom-covered Belts".This article teaches covering belts and buckles.

I decided to do this one because I needed something to give my new handbag a little zing.I wanted something fast and I did'nt want to buy any new supplies.The supplies listed for this project were all on hand already.It needed to be fast because,I foolishly decided to challenge my Mom to a race in handbag making.I have challenge my Mom in craft making,before and she CREAMED me.However it is fun and I love to see what she comes up with.

Anyway,back to the project.I grabbed one of my DD old belts and went to work.I follow the instrutions to the letter,changing only one thing.I did not do the handstitching underneath the buckle as suggested.Instead I used a zipper foot and sewed close to the buckle and then frayed the edges.(I thought it would be artsy)

The only thing I found dis-pleasing about the article is that there were no phote of eyelets and the method to make them professional looking.

Here's is the one sentence concerning this matter"To make an eyelet,punch a hole in the belt using an awl,then hand sew around the hole using a buttonhole stitch."After testing this on another scrap of the newly created fabric covered belt,I found my stitches were extremly hideous.I ended up using the circle stitch on my machine.I only punched a hole in the eyelet I'd be using to connect the buckle.The other two are decorative(even if they are slightly crooked).

This is the completed bag.I plan to carry my knitting,I made special inside pocket for knitting needles,Ipod,phone and cash.It is very roomy.Perfect for my creative adventures.On to the next adventure.

A Thread's Adventure

This is the way I start my day.Depending on how much sleep I get the night before,this cup is usaully filled with coffee,orange juice or water.

For my latest sewing adventure,I've decided to test drive some of the information found in various Threads magazine articles and give you the scoop on what works and,what doesn't.

I 've started with January 2007 -issue 128,page 54-59.This article is called ,"The Secret to Slinky Knits".I have selected this fabric and pattern.It is slinky knit.I choose this pattern after viewing Melody's beautiful example .You can see it here. http://crazedsewer.blogspot.com/2007_04_01_archive.html

The article list basic tools-rotary cutter,cutting mat,walking foot,stretch needle,polyester thread,pressing cloth,and fusible stabilizer tape.(the brand I choose was Steam-A-Seam)

The article suggests using a rotary cutter and cutting mat.I did not use those ,because my cutting mat is to small.I used very sharp scissors and stayed close to the cutting surface without lifting the fabric too much.This worked fine.I also used weights instead if pins.I would suggest using as few pins as possible to avoid snags from pins that may not be sharp enough.The information for cutting was,right on the money.Everything went well.

And sew on...

I don't have a walking foot,which was one of the tools listed.I will be getting one.I was able to control most of the fabric shifting,but with a walking foot,I know this project would have went along a lot faster.All information for sewing and pressing was perfect.The Steam-A-Seam is something I plan to stock up on.It gave a smooth neckline and hem with no rippled edges,while adding a hint of stabilization.The stitch lenght,2-2.5(I used 2) and width 0.5-1(I used 1) was a traditional zigzag.The article advised that a serger was not necessary,so I didn't use one.This is my first slinky knit dress,It went together so fast,that I went out and bought more slinky knit and made a second version the very next day.

And sew on...

The verdict is in. This Threads,article is a winner and has helped me conquer my fear of knits.I'll post pictures as soon as I can get DD or DH to take them.Sew on to the next article.

Results of My 2 Week Sewing Challenge.

Here are the projects,I started and completed,during my self-imposed,2 week sewing challenge.

First is the lavender shirt.I used Butterick 3907,for both shirts.The pattern is fast and easy.It went together without any problem.I needed some shirts to wear over tank tops,because I don't like to expose my upper arms.

I already worn this shirt twice.It has a sheer floral pattern on a lightweight linen blend.This fabric was in my stash for 2 years.Next up,is the same shirt in a printed cotton fabric.I haven't worn it anywhere except outside for pictures.I'm planning to make a pair of solid color bermuda shorts to match.I haven't decided between white or beige.This fabric has been in my stash for 1 year.

Last on this list is the pink cotton sundress for my DD,Ashley.This is from Simplicity 4224.I plan to make another in a tropical print.She wore this to church today.She likes it and has asked for another for next Sunday.

This "sewing challenge"has taught me the joys of taking time for myself and spending that time doing something that I greatly enjoy.I will continue sewing daily for relaxation and enjoyment.

On to the next sewing adventure.I've got a big pile of Threads magazines.I'm feeling brave...hmm.

I'm Sew Glad,I Sew

I went shopping with friend who happens to be a full-figure beauty.We went to the mall and visited 4 well-known department stores,all of which,have a "woman's"department.I watched her try on one black sack dress after another.There were plenty of beautiful spring colors to choose from and many exotic prints but,she only choose black."Black make you look slim"she said,when I suggested a turquiose and white geometric print wrap dress.
Ok.I've heard this a million times before.I know I look like a plus size woman whether I wear black,red,white or any other color.I'm not hiding in black.I'm showing out in living color.I encourage all women to do this regardless of what size she may be.Here's a fact about me: I don't own one black dress.I've got a pair black pant which belong to a suit,I made.I've got 1 black skirt suit and 1 skirt(which may be going into retirement soon).
My friend also complained about the lack of up to the moment stylish,clothing.I agree with her completely.I'm so glad that I'm not trapped in the limited world of plus size retail.I can sew any style,I like in any color I like.I plan to teach my friend to sew.Her freedom is waiting.
I am sewing daily and enjoying every minute of it.So far,I've completed 2 blouses,and one top.4 dolls and 1 dress are in the process.
This has been a busy week,but I still made time for myself and my passion.

Saturday's Loot

Goodies,goodies and more goodies.This has been a wonderful day.I truly enjoy the simple pleasures.I started the day with early by heading out to the flea market.With a hot cup of Starbuck's in my cupholder and my DD riding shotgun,I was feeling lucky.I found some great embroidery floss,metallic thread and an embroidery book.The best part was the cost,$2.Check out the goods.

Here is the book.It's really nice and practically new.It has a lot of projects from beginner to advance .Very simple,fresh and contemporary.I like many of the Reader's Digest craft books.

After the flea market we went to Hancock Fabrics,where I picked up this pattern,Vogue 8406.I can't decide which to make first.I'm leaning towards the white bag with the black handles.

After pattern shopping,we ate lunch and went home for some quality time in the sewing room.I stuffed two more doll bodies,painted two faces,and cut,marked and interfaced a dress for my DD.

This has been the first week of my 2 week "sewing challenge" and I've spent time sewing everyday.I've been taking time to really enjoy the process and it paying off in every way.I'll wait until the end of week 2 to post pictures of the items completed.

It's after midnight.I'm off to bed.

I spent a bit of time playing in the sewing room.When I say playing,that refers to making dolls.I make it a habit to honor my inner child by making dolls.I love to sew and I love dolls.
Here are two heads and a pair of arms.I hand paint the faces.Freehand,no patterns.It is had to decide on hair and costumes.I plan to experiment on African style,head wrapping.I went to a class on this several months ago.There are so many wrapping techniques.I hope I can remember at least one.
I've also completed 2 blouses,mentioned earlier in this blog.I've got to slow my DD down to take a picture for me.
I've been spending quality sewing time every day.I'm really enjoying it.No rushing.All relaxing.

Sewing Challenge,Day 2

Today was a typical busy Monday filled housework,phone calls,errands,and 2 art business meetings.I was still able to pull off setting 1 hour aside for sewing.
I warmed up by,flipping thru a back issue of Threads magazine,where found an article on embellishing garments,using stencils and fabric paints.
When I browse thru my closet I see very few creative pieces,things that stand out.I would like my clothing to represent,who I am,so I've been seeking out embellishing techniques.So,here's the plan.Create figure flattering,artsy pieces for daily wear.This is what,I'll explore during this challenge. The blouses I'm working on now,feature lively fabric and I'm not really sure how I can add a creative "zing"to it,but I'll figure it out.
I'll be back in my sewing room before I go to bed this evening.Sewing is a great evening indulgence.Much better than a bowl of ice cream and less fattening of course.I have pictures to post tomorrow.

Sewing Challenge

After reading one of my favorite blogs,http://crazedsewer.blogspot.com/index.html ,Melody has inspired me to challenge myself.I havent been sewing much lately.Well at least,not "Zen "sewing.It's the kind of sewing that is sheer pleasure and you get into the process and the next thing you know you are in that relaxed,all is well,peaceful mode.

I've recently made a quick unlined jacket for my DD to wear on Easter.I did it the day before and I was rushed.The "Zen" was in site,but not in reach.The jacket turn out well and she loved it.Here is her pic.

After we return home from church,Sunday,I began cutting out a pattern for 2 blouses.I figure that's a good place to start because I've got some old favorites, in my closet ,that have run their course.I got all the cutting,marking done while listening to my favorite tunes.After that,one of my favorite movies came on ,Stephan King's "The Stand".I watched it while I steamed interfacing, stitched and pressed.My DH bought Subway sandwiches for the family,for dinner and I didn't have to cook or wash dishes.More time to sew.It was so relaxing.It was "Zen"sewing at it finest.I stopped sewing to spend quality time with the family which is always time well spent.

Now it is 2:41 am Monday morning.I'm going to bed and dream of sewing project for this 2 week challenge.Sweet dreams everyone.

New Artwork

This is my lastest completed painting.It is curently hanging in a gallery.I've sold prints of it but,the original remains unsold.I'm not complaining.That's the way it goes sometimes.

This painting is called,"Rejoice".I love to paint.I've got a few paintings to post.Maybe I'll do one every week.

I haven't spent any time on creativity today.Just back to back meetings,errands and housework.With that I'm off to my studio.

What's New or Old

I know I haven't post in ages and I promise to do a better job in the immediate future.
I'm an artist.Selling my paintings,sewing alterations and a few Ebay sales are my only means of making a little $$.I've got a few habits that require spending $$.Those habits are sewing,reading,knitting,doll making and creating art.I hang out at the fabric stores,book store,yard/estate sales and really junky flea markets.Any great weekend includes time spent at one or all of these places. Lately I been finding some really cool treasure.I usually search for fabric,vintage sewing notions,books any anything else that think I can use in my mixed media artwork.

This jacket was made recently from a damask table cloth from an estate sale.This very moment I'm washing another tablecloth for some future sewing project.I haven't decided on what it will be.Maybe after I iron it ,it will "speak to me"

This is a close up of the buttons and collar. This is a Simplicity pattern,Khalia Ali design.It is an unlined jacket. The fabric was a bit stiff,until I pre-wash it with a little fabric softener. After that,it was a breeze to manipulate and sew. It is soft to the skin also.

I also found some nice vintage buttons at a yard sale.Look at the price on the box top and you'll see why,I couldn't pass it by.

Adventure of The Amazing Pants Part 3

Whew! Finally a moment to play on the computer.I finally made a wearable pair of pants.The time it takes, to fit a pair of pants, is well worth it.My latest pair are so comfortable.No riding up,digging in or clinging.

Sorry, the pictures are so dark.The pants are navy blue.You may notice a couple of wrinkles.That's because I took these pics after wearing them to church.

I'm going to spend some time today working on the fourth pair.Maybe I'll finish tonight.

Adventure Of The Amazing Pants-Part 2

My goodness! I had no idea how much tweaking is involved in fitting my pants.I'm still working on the fitting muslin.I'm on the second go round.I've got a neck ache from looking at my butt in the mirror.My husband is sick of me,jumping in front of the TV and asking him,"How do these pants fit my butt?"He has said"Good,now move it."three times.He's trying to watch football and he'll say anything to get me to leave him alone.
So here my progress so far.I think I'm getting there.

Adventures Of The Amazing Pants

I'm currently working on a pair of "Amazing Pants".I call them amazing,because the will be the first pair of pants I will sew,that have a perfect fit.I'm participating in a sew-a-long with a few of the fluffy babes at PR.You can check it out at http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/sewingclasses/board.pl?t=19383 .I'm using Simplicity4068 ,view B. Check that out here.
http://http://simplicity.com/dv1_v4.cfm?design=4068

I made a muslin out of some hideous fabric that was donated to me by a friend.(I'm not ungrateful and she was the first to admit that it was hideous).I selected the size to make by my waist measurement.I cut that size and made them as is and tried them on.Here are the results.
As you can see from all the vertical folds that the fit is too big.Also the waist is too big.The crazy part is,I have made pants in the past that fit like this with an elastic waist, and wore them in public. I will Never do that again.So off I go,back to the cutting board.I am armed with two issues of Threads magazine,featuring pant fitting articles,coffee,scissors,pins,time and determination.

The Last Rose


I thought this rose bush would become a terminal victim of the dreaded rose disease"blackspot".However it continues to surprise me.Here it is,December,and I find one blossom waving at me in the cold morning wind.
I guess there is a lesson to be learned from my rose.

" DON'T LET LITTLE THINGS GET YOU DOWN.CONTINUE TO GROW AND BLOOM FOR ALL TO SEE." - Rose in December

I had a little time to do something creative last night,so I made a little snowman.He's made from onasberg cloth.He has a hand sculpted head made from paperclay and painted with acrylic paint.He is posted atop of a vintage brass candleholder.I'm thinking about selling him on "Ebay",but I'm going to have to take a better picture.

I spend (way too much)time browsing around Ebay,looking and admiring all kinds of works done by independant(Indy)artists.While I've sold plenty of items on Ebay,none of them were my own creation.I'm just so afraid of rejection.I've always been this way.I know this is an unreasonable way to think and I have had many of my paintings and artdolls purchased from a gallery.That fact alone, should push that silly fear right out of my head,but it still lurks there.

I plan to get over this fear by taking action often.Today this snowman will be re-photographed and placed up for bid.My mind is made up.Wish me luck.

She's Got Me Under Her Spell

I've been in a sewing slump lately and I was advised be another sewing fan,that I should try making something for a good cause.So I pulled out my doll patterns and found a pattern that I'd purchased at a sewing expo,3 years ago and never made.I immediatly dug through my scrap bag and notions drawer and gathered everything I needed to complete this doll.
I was determined to start and finish this project in one session.I knew that,if I stopped for any reason,she would end up on the "UFO"pile.I've got plenty of stuff in that pile and that story will be in a later post.
Anyway,I completed my doll as planned and I intended to donate her to a silent art/craft auction to raise money for the non-profit gallery,of which I am a member and president.When I took her to the gallery,I could not bring myself to put her on the auction table.So placed her on the drink bar instead,as a festive,not for sale,decoration.All through the event people commmented about her and ask about her price to which continued to respond,"Oh she's not for sale".I'll have to make another one to ease my guilt over the fundraiser.

My Jamaican Getaway

I spent the past weekend in beautiful Jamaica.I'm still reeling from the sites,scents and sounds of that beautiful island paradise.For 4 days,I was totally relaxed.I spent time knitting and reading on the beach.Whenever it got too hot,I'd put down my book or knitting and take a dip in the ocean.Sooo refreshing.
I got hooked on the local food specialties-Jerk Chicken,Pumpkin Soup,Curried Conch,Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and Rum Punch.I was invited by a lady in my women's prayer group,whom I did not know very well.She could not get anyone else to go with her on short notice,so she ask me.Am I blessed or what? All inclusive resort vacation for a woman with no job.
She and I spent some time getting to know each other and I think we might have bonded and become new friends.Time will tell.
I took lots of pictures and I hope this trip will inspire my art work.I had uninterupted time to think and pray about things I want to do ,but have been to afraid to try.(I have a fear of failure)
I got lots of things in mind and maybe I'll get brave enough to put them out in blogland.

Check out these pics from the trip. This is a great place to knit read and think.

My Getaway

I recently traveled to Detroit,Michigan to visit my parents,brothers,nieces and nephew.I was born and raised in Detroit and it is always great to visit and spend time with loved ones.One of the perks of visiting at the end of September is,the "American Sewing Expo".This is BIG FUN.My mom and her friends sew and we go to the event together.

Notice the bag we are holding,are empty,but by the time the we left,they were filled beyond capacity.

I also had the joyous opportunity of meeting a wonderful woman,whom I met on http://www.patternreview.com .Her name is Melody and she is absolutely charming.I must figure out a way to get her to move to Georgia.LOL.

I took a class by Louise Cutting,and learned so much.I already own some of her patterns and purchased 2 more.I shopped and shopped.Then after we left the expo,we went to "Joann Fabrics"and shopped some more.

Here are some of my goodies.Cool fabric and patterns.The green pieces are corduroy and the blue is rayon.I love indie patterns.I don't know where to start first.

I've cleaned up my sewing room and I'm all ready to swing into action.

I've been crocheting a shrug for my DD.I know it doesn't look to cool on the dress form and also I'm not finished yet.I have to add ruffles and sleeve bands according to the pattern.I'm following my first crochet pattern,so I'm a little excited.But I should warn you.I am an artist and the more I learn,the more I will toss into my work.After I get the basics down,then I will start to to add my own style.There is no telling what kind of monstrosities I might turn out.

Later,I will add a pic of my DD wearing the finished product.Maybe I can have it done by the end of the weekend.


I've been painting and collaging a new piece.It is also a work in progress.I'm stuck right now,so I thought I'd take a break.As usual,I got a few projects going on at once.

This is inspired by my shoe obsession.I love shoes but heres the thing.My feet are big.Excuse me,I mean ....BIG.(I wear size 11 and 12) Now don't get me wrong.There is nothing wrong with my self esteem or anything like that.In fact my issue is with shoe manufactures and designers.They don't seem to realize that there are plenty of big footed fashionistas,who want fashion forward shoes. I personally,know a lot of women who wear the same size shoe.We buy plenty of shoes and will buy plenty more as long as we can find our size.

Anyway,after an unsucessful day of shoe shopping.I came home with a bad attitude.After medicating myself with a bottle of beer and a bag of Nacho Cheese Doritoes,I began this painting/collage.I post it again when it's done.





I finished reading"Susannah's Garden".It was kinda boring .Now I'm reading this. So far so good.