andrea creates

New Stash

2012-02-01T10:09:00.000-05:00

I went to a far away fabric store and bought some new old favorites.

And some new new favorites too.

Oh No!

2012-01-31T10:03:00.011-05:00

I hate when that happens...

Started up another leaves long beanie and wasn't paying attention to the amount of yarn left :0

I have lots of leftover yarn and thought this would make a nice hat. 

I'm so tempted to continue on and see if I have enough or not, but I haven't even finished the first pattern repeat(!)
What do you think? Keep going and risk tearing it all out?
I might...

Stay tuned ;)

Art Deco Organizer

2012-01-30T09:58:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite style eras ~art deco!

When I saw this print ~I couldn't resist.

I love how the clothes looked. The furniture. Colors...

I loved these colors too-an orangey coral on pink.

I love making these organizers. I usually call them crochet hook organizers, but they can certainly be used for art supplies~makeup brushes etc...

I added a vintage flower button and some scraps of ribbon and antique crochet trim for fun ;)

What are your favorite style eras?

leaves long beanie

2012-01-28T15:07:00.004-05:00

I made another hat!

Have been working on this one for a month or so. I kept frogging it.But finally got it finished up yesterday-and wore it immediately. Who needs to block a hat, lol?

Malabrigo's one of my all time favorite yarns-super squishy. 

I'll probably make some for gifts this year~ the pattern's from Weekend Hats.

update...P.S~I'm already working on another ;)

Super Soft Organizer

2012-01-28T10:14:00.000-05:00

I made up a new style of travel sized crochet hook organizer for the shop.

The bifold style features a snap instead of my usual ribbon tie closure.Just something a bit different.

I love how the fabrics looks vintage, crinkly & faded ~the colors are so muted and pretty.

It's super soft~I backed it with cotton batting, and added a snippet of vanilla colored vintage crochet lace trim and crinkled seam binding behind the dusty pink button....

If you're not into crocheting, it could also be used for pens or makeup brushes :)

In the shop

Sac Parisien

2012-01-27T12:20:00.001-05:00

I have been working on this one for a few days.

This is the same design as the most recent clutches I've been making, but I decided to add some red vinyl handles I got recently....

and some pretty red and white crochet trim.

It's in the shop now. 

P.S~ I've discounted the wallets that are expiring soon.Please see yesterday's post for info :)

Wallets Expiring Soon

2012-01-26T13:26:00.000-05:00

I have a couple of wallets expiring over the next few days.

I'm not sure if I'll relist them anytime soon.

I usually like to wait awhile if I do...

So if you'd like one of these, you may want to get them while you can ;)

I Won A Print!

2012-01-25T10:55:00.000-05:00

I won a print from Krys Kirkpatrick!

She does the sweetest watercolours.

See more here too :)

Thanks Krys!!

Felt Valentine Rose Wreath~Snow Day Fun

2012-01-23T11:12:00.000-05:00

My daughter made some of these the other day...

She got the idea from this magazine.

I gave her a lot of felts -mostly acrylics that I don't normally use.

She made roses in all colors as you can see in the top photo~ but decided to 

make a wreath from red, pink white and purple.

Sweet!

Papercakes Feature

2012-01-22T07:38:00.000-05:00

I forgot to mention the other day~ I was featured on Papercakes...

Come see it here: Papercakes Flickr Friday

:)

Thanks!!

Orange and Blue

2012-01-21T12:14:00.000-05:00

When I come up with a new pattern I like~ I tend to get carried away making them. This one's been no exception. 

I have so much fun choosing unusual prints. This Asian inspired one has been a favorite in my collection for a long time. It's very finely woven and soft.

I paired it with a creamsicle color combo of polka dots (by Fig Tree Quilts) 

and a big blue vintage button and lacy trim.

My 2nd favorite part of making these bags?

Smashing down those gathers with the iron!!

I'm sure that's a big no-no in the sewing world but I like how they look this way. It makes the bag feel like a favorite vintage piece :)

P.S~ have you heard picnik is closing ? I used some of the premium features ~which are free 'til they close~ on a few of these photos here today. I'm not sure how I'll edit my pics in the future~ maybe try and finally learn my photoshop elements! ;)

Rosy Clutch

2012-01-20T13:36:00.000-05:00

I've been working on this little gathered clutch for 2 days.

I love bags that are multipurpose like this one ~ it can be a bag on it's own-quick errands...party etc...or a larger scale pouch inside a big bag.

I added some vintage trim to the front and a cute green detailed button...

it's in the shop ;)

Treasuries

2012-01-19T15:19:00.000-05:00

Sweet Treat

2012-01-18T17:06:00.000-05:00

I hadn't made one of these in almost a year...

Somehow I had lost 1/2 of the pattern.

Had to remake one.

Couldn't remember exactly how to put it together.

Picked a few threads

But, I finally got it done!!

 And I think it turned out really sweet.

Valen~Pouches Are Back ; )

2012-01-17T11:32:00.001-05:00

UPDATE: SOLD, thank you :)
An original design of mine I came up with a few years back~I try to remember to remake a few around this time each year.

This one's in the shop and a few more are currently underway :)

A sweet treat with zero calories ;)

Teeny Tiny Box Pouch

2012-01-16T11:38:00.001-05:00

I had an idea yesterday that I could make a box shaped pouch without visible raw edges inside-(and without having to leave an opening for turning).Hard to explain exactly what I mean, sounds impossible, and I think it pretty much is.

I had the pouch turned every which way, stitched every which seam, googled tutorials and even found a few patterns in my own stash....none were/are exactly what I wanted~ so I went ahead with a seam in the bottom inside lining, it works & at least no raw edges are showing, but I'll still tweak my pattern as the technique is still not exactly what I had planned ;)

I quilted some prints I have had for awhile, and overlook all the time. I think they turned out cute on this tiny box pouch. 

See how tiny!

I think these would be cute to organize anything in your purse or office?

And you can even hang it up by the little handle ;)
I'll be adding this one to the shop and making up more soon!

Coffee Time

2012-01-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

I haven't made a coffee~or tea~ cozy in awhile and thought these muted taupes would make a great sleeve. I added a favorite velvet and lace trim to the side....

Now I just need some coffee ;)

Treasuries

2012-01-11T23:00:00.000-05:00

I though I'd share some new ones before I get too far behind ;)

thanks everyone!

:)

Grey Floral

2012-01-11T12:11:00.000-05:00

I couldn't wait to work on my new stash~and came up with this:

I added the tab to the side, then decided it needed something on the front, and stitched on the vintage lace and mother of pearl button. Now I'm not sure if it's too much?

I think I could get used to it :)

New Stock

2012-01-10T10:15:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I visited a local quilting shop.

I had plans to (hopefully) stock on some customer faves before they were all gone. I hadn't been in awhile, and suspected they might have some new prints on hand...

So, I went in for this:

and wound up with all of this:

aren't they pretty all together?!

Love the Paris map print~looking for places I used to go ;)

(3 sisters/moda)

beige and yellow to brighten it up~sweet birds (robyn pandolph)

these remind me of some Japanese prints I got last year~ muted beiges and dusky purples, blues and browns(Evening mist).

some florals to go with both :)

Granny Chic Kindle Cozy

2012-01-08T17:26:00.000-05:00

I've been on a roll making these sleeves.

I thought I'd make one up in one of my favorite styles...'granny chic', complete with a vintage olive colored button :)

And Finally

2012-01-08T15:44:00.001-05:00

I think this is finally caught up...new year's resolution...not get so far behind in my treasury sharing :)

Thanks to all who have included me!!

Catch ~Up Part 2

2012-01-07T15:35:00.000-05:00

And a few more:

Treasury Catch ~Up

2012-01-06T15:29:00.007-05:00

While on the subject of treasuries...here are a few more to share...

Treasury Day...2 Posts today ;)

2012-01-05T15:26:00.001-05:00

Today was a big day for treasuries for my little shop :)

Thanks so much everyone :)

1000 Admirers

2012-01-05T12:37:00.002-05:00

I've hit 1000 admirers on etsy!!

:)

I don't usually look at those numbers, but I know it was in the high 900's recently so it must be true (?).

That makes my day :)

I've been busy working on custom orders. 

Like the cozy, above.

Sometimes customer requests turn into new design ideas. Like the flap closure here. I like my usual style, but this is pretty nice too~ and I think I'll make up some more like this :)

What do you think?

Kindle Cozies

2012-01-04T10:55:00.002-05:00

I love this print by Anna Maria Horner. And had just enough to make a cozy for a smaller Kindle.

These seem to be quite popular and I've received some very nice compliments on them :)

Thanks everyone!

Vintage Fabric

2012-01-03T09:42:00.001-05:00

The other day we went ice skating in Oxford.

Not the one in England ;)

But it was a university~ and we did have fun...but not before.....

stopping for a coffee and a stroll through an antique shop where I got this:

A vintage apron I am dying to turn into a project. I know it seems a shame to chop something up like this but I won't use it as is. There are parts that aren't usable, so I'll need to cut around places.

I just loved the colors and the roses~ and the price was definitely right!

I bought this the other day too. It's not vintage, but a print designed by Liesl Gibson. I know someone whose name is Lisette~ & even though I love the print and the weight of the fabric,I really bought the piece especially to use that selvedge for something gift related ;)

Back On Track

2011-12-30T08:44:00.001-05:00

I'm back.

I just had to take some time off.And get rid of the 'autumn' banner,lol.

I have been working ~just not (obviously) posting as much.

We've been busy with the festivities and family visits from out of state that are far too infrequent, on all sides, so I had to take advantage of that :)

Above are 2 of my most recent kindle cozies. I cannot seem to keep them in the shop for long-which is a(very)good thing :)

The bottom one is off to a new home today(!)

I love the fabric-it's from the Happy Camper line. I even like the name ;)(You can see it in the banner too)

I'll be making more soon in other variations.

I have some plans for the new year including pdf'ing (is that a word?) some of my patterns and hopefully getting them up for sale in the shop. Possibly some fabric designs?? ;)

 I got some tools to work on that. I have a lot to learn but am very anxious to get started!

Do you have any creative goals for the new year?

**Best New Year wishes to you, from me :)**

Blog Feature

2011-12-16T07:33:00.001-05:00

I feel so far behind this month in getting things done.

I'm trying to relax and enjoy the season all the while, getting lots of work done, visiting with family, and all of the other usual busyness this time of year...

Better late than never (?) I meant to share this the other day~

A little project of mine that was featured on the creative collective blog.

Check it out, and make sure to look through all of the other tutorials-every day a new one...lots of great projects!!!

:)

Mint Forest Headband

2011-12-12T11:03:00.000-05:00

I made up another gift....

I got a little tired of sewing(!) and even though this includes (quite a bit of) sewing~I wanted to make a flower headband on a smaller scale than the other, for someone I know.

I wanted to do one of my more usual color combos like mustard and magenta or mint and chartreuse :0

but wasn't sure they'd like that~ so I stuck with a more subtle mint and forest green :)

I think they'll like it.

Prizes

2011-12-11T10:15:00.000-05:00

This past month I have been so lucky to have won a few giveaways in blogland :)

Yesterday, I received these goodies in the mail from Lola Nova:

The wallet that was featured in the Mollie Makes magazine(!).

She also sent along this cute felt ornament.

I love the tags and packaging too ;)

~~~

I've been busy (blog absent)these past few weeks, with family visiting from out of state~ which is always hard when good byes must be said...

Ive done this my whole life, either as the one who comes, or the one who goes... and it never gets easier  :(

Time to make some decisions about where I really want to be.

And finishing up Christmas presents.

 Today we'll get and decorate our tree.

How about you~what have you been up to?

And Finally...

2011-12-01T12:56:00.000-05:00

I think I may be caught up now?!

Phew!

Thanks to all who have included my items in their treasuries! I try to comment on all of them and share them here :)

And Some More ....

2011-11-30T12:54:00.000-05:00

Continuing my treasury catch up from the past few days...

Catching up on My Treasuries Continued...

2011-11-29T12:50:00.000-05:00

Some more treasuries~continued from yesterday :)

more to come...

Cyber Monday

2011-11-28T12:50:00.000-05:00

How is your cyber Monday going?

I've made up another little red floral wallet. This is one of my favorite prints by Lecien.

It's getting cold here and I hear we have snow on the way :(

I think I'll go make some vegetable soup and stay warm!

How's the weather where you are?

p.s~ i'm a few treasuries to share behind, so i'll share a few in each upcoming post:

What I've made this week

2011-11-27T14:25:00.000-05:00

I have been busy sewing and filling orders this week :) and haven't had many free moments to take some photos 'til now...

I just bought a new pattern from keykalou~the above wallet. What a fun design. I love the interior zipper...

I made up some of the felt flowers again-but this time a bit smaller, and attached them to headbands.I'm keeping the top one ;)

butterscotch mint headband

and finally another gathered clutch. These are tricky to make and I'm not sure how many I can make before retiring this new design-or else I'll have to rework it :0

...Both of the original ones I made have gone to new homes however, and this one is just listed :)

What have you made this week?

Mustard and Teal

2011-11-23T10:00:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I took advantage of a very small window of opportunity of a tiny bit of brightness in the day and took some photos of this new pin I made. Still a bit on the dark side ;), but I wanted to share anyway...

The front~mustard felt wool, edge stitched in teal and I'm not sure what you call the center loopy fringe (?), but it's also felt wool ...

and the back...

contemplating listing or making a tutorial....

but this one will be for me ;)

Dreary Weather

2011-11-22T10:51:00.001-05:00

One of the reasons I haven't checked in to post for a week-is because the weather is so dark and dreary I can't take a decent picture of anything I've made or wanted to share.

For some reason I can't seem to get enough artificial light indoors, that doesn't mess up the true colors....but I gave in and took a couple this morning anyway:

First up some lovely prizes I won in Harmony and Rosie's recent giveaway :)

Love them!!

Some kindle sleeves I've been working on:

A long, pleated pouch~ pattern from keykalou, but with her permission, I enlarged it to fit a larger sized phone... and as soon as the rain goes away I will probably list it :)

What have you been working on?

Olive and Red

2011-11-15T12:29:00.003-05:00

If you've come here via button floozies, you're probably looking for this post ;)

having fun with buttons

A new Bag-same new gathered clutch design.

Loving these new prints :)

Now listed ;)

Design Done

2011-11-14T12:34:00.000-05:00

I couldn't wait to share the new bag-even though it was still a work in progress, in the drawing stage when I wrote the last post an hour or so ago (!)

The plan was to make a gathered bag -not too big or small, that looked like a 'clasp purse', only with a zipper.

I pressed the gathers flat- it looks more vintage to me that way~ not perfect & new. The big teal button is old too :)

I love this new Denyse Schmidt line. This cherry print reminds me of those mid century tablecloths ...

What do you think?

Design In Progress

2011-11-14T10:33:00.000-05:00

gathered olive bag

Design in progress, or 'dip'?-(as opposed to wip? Though this falls into both categories ;)

I wanted to make a coin purse/smallish zippered pouch- inspired by coin clasp style purses -sort of like the little bag I made the other day and my larger round top versions....which were also inspired by clasp purses.

inside

Of course this has a bit of tweaking to do.

I'm already at the 'design table /cutting board' working on a new one. Hopefully it'll work out better this time 'round.

I guess I'll be keeping this one myself ;)

Some New Supplies

2011-11-12T09:18:00.000-05:00

I went to Joann for a magazine and ended up in the fabric aisles where I spied these new (to me ?) Denyse Schmidt prints...I'm not sure how long they've been out but I filled my cart with only my favorites and some coordinating prints. I got a bit extra for the shop-half yards or less, in case you're interested...I'll slowly be listing them.

I have some new ideas design wise, inspired by the prints. I like that they look retro and modern all at the same time- the color combos are great too :)

I'm Back

2011-11-11T11:54:00.001-05:00

Back to hopefully, regular blogging. It was hard not being able to get online when or where I wanted. It's become such a habit. In a way it's also nice to have a break from it~ like being in the 'old days'-not so long ago ;)

I'd like to say I was super-uber productive during this time off, but I also took a bit of a creativity break too.

I had a custom request recently, and made a trial pouch, which I think turned out to be a really cute size and shape... Maybe I'll add some to the shop soon? :)

~Happy Weekend~

I Didn't Disappear, lol

2011-11-04T16:37:00.001-04:00

Hi there-just checking in...I didn't disappear, the phone company is doing construction and in their 'renovation and upgrading' have managed to ruin the phone lines or something... We haven't had the internet or a phone for a few days and they're giving us a few more days til the problem is fixed...meanwhile I am checking in with my phone and when I get the chance : )

Have a super weekend,

Andrea

Crochet Hat and Bow

2011-10-29T10:06:00.001-04:00

I made up this crocheted hat a little while back. Right after Christmas last year-I decided I'd just keep making things as potential gifts, and now I have a little collection going.

This morning my Mom needed a gift for someone so she asked if I had any hats ready to go....

It didn't have the little polka dot bows 'til today...

I just brought out my scrap basket, cut 2 rectangles from 1 pre-cut length, pinked around all edges, cut that in half down the middle, and tied them to the hat in bows.

This is a quick hat to make-great for gifts. I think the pattern is from this book, but it's been awhile so I'm not sure. You can find similar patterns around the web...

I priced some knit hats at one of my 'favorite stores' recently and they were (very cute) but quite a bit of $ and not handmade which is half the fun, right? ;)

Petite Pochette

2011-10-28T13:08:00.001-04:00

I have been pretty (un)busy with sewing this week. I cleaned out the studio a bit-did some paperwork -boring stuff.

Today I finally got around to making up a couple of little pouches like this:

not sure if my photo is showing the scale too well -but these are small :)

or if my bieber polish is distracting (?)-it is one of my favorites(!) 

When I get out of the swing of things for a few days I tend to screw up a project or 2 before I get back into the groove. This was no exception-I won't show the one I messed up, but this one turned out pretty nicely, I think.

I thought I'd add a few more of these to the shop-they make nice little 'stocking suffer' sized presents. A great petite size to throw some makeup,cards, money etc etc into your pocket or purse...

Don't forget -the 'make it a set' sale is on 'til the end of October :)
edit--
p.s - pouch pattern by keykalou

With a Bow

2011-10-24T13:29:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the earwarmers I was working on-this time completed with a bow:

I finished a couple more-but haven't gotten the bows done yet~ will share soon :)

What are you working on today?

Some Cozy WIP's

2011-10-21T12:51:00.001-04:00

I've been knitting up a storm. A storm of earwarmers at least ;)

I love these 3 colors together-the bottom one is called 'pear' which I think is a good name but I would also call it chartreuse.

Every year I try to make as many gifts as I can.

See some here.

and here.

and here-where i seemed to be crocheting up a storm ;)

I have a lot of birthdays and holidays coming up to make for~ a lot of skinny yarn I need to use up and thought these would be a quick knit. I can make one a night before my arm gets tired. I sort of adapted a pattern myself after reading several tutorials online. Not much to it. Circular needles, some ribbing at the beginning and end and knit a few inches in the middle...

in the same colors, but nothing to do with~another wip i had going on-a brooch with felt and some of my favorite fabric

However-the earwarmers are not yet done...I will be adding some fabric to them- I'll show you when I'm done :)

New Design Sample Sale

2011-10-18T12:00:00.000-04:00

O.k- So I've never had a sample sale. But now's as good a time to start as any, right?

Actually this is a new design I've been working on- off and on for awhile now. 

It's basically the card wallet design with a zippered coin pocket.

Because of the pocket placement and the zippered section, there is also a 3rd pocket/section (behind the zippered pocket). Phew, that's confusing.(The photo will do the explaining for me with the 5 euro bill)

I think I'll make up some more of these, maybe tweaking here and there... but basically the same plan.

Now for the sample sale part:

Because I can't justify keeping every sample I make when designing something new- or give them away to everyone I know...lol, you should see my Mom's (and Aunt's and... purse- full of all the things I make ;)...I have decided to go ahead and list this one. It will be discounted, just because.

It will also be my 70th item in the shop! Wow! I've never gotten that many things listed at once! I'd like to hit a hundred, but don't know if that's too ambitious right now. We'll see...

Features and Treasuries

2011-10-17T15:21:00.000-04:00

If you like coffee, my blog friend Lisa over at ZiBagz, has a nice collection of coffee inspired goodies-including my coffee sleeve. Thanks Lisa!

Here are some treasuries I've been included in too....Thanks everyone!!

Set Of 3

2011-10-14T13:55:00.001-04:00

I decided to try out all 3 of the keykalou pleated pouch patterns using some French General prints,to make as a set for the shop. They are so fun to make up, and I'm sure I will be making some Christmas gifts with this pattern.

I've made the price about 10% off of what I would normally ask for them individually, so it's a good deal. Again, you could keep one for yourself and give 2 as gifts or keep all 3 etc etc.

I really like the 'tall' version myself. It's a bit too small for my phone and I wouldn't recommend it with the snap closure.(The larger one has a velcro closure and button stitched to the outside as an embellishment). I might make some up with velcro if I find that some phones fit in the case.

Orange

2011-10-13T10:02:00.000-04:00

I was always told orange was not a pretty color-but now, I find I like it-in small doses and accents.

And this would be one I like ;)

I bought this print last week, and this pattern-another keykalou, and I love it too. It's a great quick project and I can see lots of future presents ;)

This one will go to the shop though.

I've been busy making and sewing. Sometimes I have no ideas,like a kind of crafter's block (I currently have knitter's block), but I try not to beat myself up about it.

Other times, like now, I have so many ideas, I wish there were more hours in the day-or that I could clone myself. Maybe an assistant would be easier, lol?

Add A Strap

2011-10-12T09:58:00.001-04:00

I decided to take the keykalou pattern I've been making clutches with, and add a strap to one of them. I looovve it!

I also used one of my current favorite fabrics by Anna Maria Horner. Just love the big roses!!

I meant to take a photo with the strap inside the bag-as it can be used as a clutch this way too :)

And one on a model- to show the strap length (it fits just under the arm)-but I'll have to wait 'til they get home ;)

Added a vintage purple button and a opalescent purplish one in mother of pearl (?)

Do you like the strap idea?

Make It A Set

2011-10-10T10:01:00.000-04:00

I've been pondering having a promotion for the month of October, on purchases of things that 'go together'~ such as the business card wallet I made the other day-and the new matching clutch:

Let's start with this one... if you buy both of these (has to be these 2items shown here) items, I'll refund 10% via paypal.

If one item gets sold first without the other, then obviously the discount won't apply. And I'll choose a new 'set'.

I plan to add more 'make it a set' combos this month :)

Happy Monday!

I Went to The 'Far Away Joann' Again...

2011-10-09T07:23:00.005-04:00

and picked up some 'new to me' Denyse Schmidt prints they had. Whenever I get to the 'Far away Joann', I try and find the prints mine doesn't carry- and a little extra for the shop~ as I know these can be hard to find sometimes.

Anyway, just a half yard of this available:

and 3/4 of this one.

~~~~

I have big plans to get things done today, so I'd better get going~ organizing and (slowly ;) getting things ready for the holidays. I think I'm maintaining (so far) that goal of making, and or listing something every day or so...

What will you be working on today?

An "Old" Favorite

2011-10-08T10:19:00.001-04:00

I decided to whip up another curvy card wallet.

I hadn't made one in awhile, and just realized these would also be great to organize little papers or perhaps coupons and what not-not just your cards.

In the shop very soon

Have a super lovely weekend : )

Because I Love Blue Roses

2011-10-07T08:16:00.000-04:00

I made another kindle cozy with Heather Bailey's prints...I love these florals, and fussy cut the big blue rose for the back...

and added a sprinkling of buttons to the flap.

It's in the shop now...

This is one of my favorite projects to make :)

New Teacup Bag

2011-10-05T12:06:00.000-04:00

I have been getting lots of requests for these little pouches and some have even been 'favoriting' sold 'cups'~ so I've decided to go ahead and make a few more.

french general prints

Of course I have been a little better in organizing things this year, however I cannot seem to find my original pattern, so I've had to redraw it.

This one came out a wee bit bigger than the others I have in the shop...I'll probably keep this size unless I hear otherwise ;)

Before I Get Too Far Behind...

2011-10-04T18:00:00.000-04:00

I will share this week's treasuries....

Those created by others~thanks so much everyone, I appreciate it! :)

and one made by yours truly:

do you have a favorite?

A New WIP

2011-10-03T11:43:00.000-04:00

I decided to try and restyle my card wallets. 

I like the look.

The only thing I did really different was stack the card slots and the new flap has a rounder shape... But I realize now, this makes things a lot harder and bulkier to turn out, so I'm not sure if I'll continue this way, or the way I have been making them.

If I do make more this way I will have to re-figure the stacking method ;)

What do you think? Do you like this way or the original better?

With pockets on either side like this one...

Scrappy Bird Wristlet

2011-10-02T09:41:00.003-04:00

So, after having been critiqued for my pattern choices (see the last post) ;)

I decided to ask said someone, to choose some fabrics themselves for a wristlet.

I/we added the bird in the scrappy collage style~ like I did for some other totes and projects, a few buttons and a scrap of lace (from an anthropologie gift card!) and voila~

This is what they came up with~ and I must admit I like it ;)

As you can see, these little wristlets are rather tiny. They fit a smaller camera like this one. I myself would maybe take it to an event, or shopping, little errand runs where you just wanna run in and take your wallet or keys...

This one will go to the shop (reluctantly ;)

Orange Kick

2011-10-01T10:30:00.004-04:00

I bought a pattern by keykalou yesterday.

I have a few things made from her patterns in my shop.

I've admired this one for awhile and wanted something new to work on...

This is also one of my favorite fabric prints (the green one)and I have no idea who makes it. If anyone knows-Id love to know. I have hardly any left ;( and would love to get more some day. 

So, needless to say I'll be keeping this one.

My daughter's helping me choose prints for the next one to go in the shop. Stay tuned :)

Like all of keykalou's patterns I've worked with so far, this one was fun, and clearly written. I was a little confused thinking some parts were meant for other places, and I just had to force myself to go along with the directions-hard when you're so used to doing your own thing, right? But that was my fault- I was having a brain freeze day,lol. In the end, I just went along with it and the little bag turned out just right~I think. 

My daughter said no one would want a bag with those prints, lol :)

Groovy!!

2011-09-29T18:48:00.000-04:00

This morning I was telling my Mom that, instead of going out and buying fabrics and crafty fun stuff- I needed to stay in the studio, not spend any more money on supplies, and make as much as I could, and only then go out and buy supplies necessary to finish those projects with.(see yesterday's post about making something everyday or so in an attempt to get ready for holiday sales ;)

I started up this groovy wallet....

No sooner had I told her, almost to the finish line (attaching the snap)~

I reached into the glass yogurt jar I store my smaller snaps in and realized, no more snaps. Just odds and ends. 

No parts with the prongs.

I called her back and we went and got more.

And I came home and finished the wallet ;)

Now in the shop-

better hurry if you want 10% off, coupon code expires tomorrow midnight :)

P.S: fabrics are by happy zombie for lecien-I just got these and I think they're totally groovy :)

Getting Ready

2011-09-28T11:52:00.002-04:00

I'm trying to add a little something to the shop every day or so. Or at least make something to add...I want to be ready for the Holidays which are coming sooner than I'm currently ready for ;)

I've been taking it easy this week as I've been sick and not sleeping or eating much...

but I did manage to make this today...

 These have been pretty popular, so rather than trying to work out a new design today, I went with something familiar~ Modern style birds and clouds on a burnt orange background and a vintage black button.... It goes well with the season too!

Now I think I'll go be lazy in front of the t.v for the rest of the day ;)

It's in the shop now-don't forget coupon code BDAYSUNDAY good 'til the end of September for 10% off : )

P.S: note to self-make new autumn banner ;0

Something New

2011-09-24T19:02:00.000-04:00

I managed to make something today...

I love these prints! In the shop now :)

Just about a week or so before the coupon code expires: BDAYSUNDAY

for 10% off at checkout :)

Treasury Catch Up Continued

2011-09-24T07:13:00.004-04:00

And continuing on yesterday's treasury catch up....

Do you have a favorite?

Treasury Catch Up Again

2011-09-23T07:12:00.001-04:00

I managed to get sick this week, and the dr. prescribed 2 different meds yesterday!...Ug.I hate taking medicine. But I guess I'm glad to have it when I need it ;0

Probably picked up some kind of bug at the Fair. So I've been a little lazy this week. And of course, I have some ideas I'm anxious to try and places I wanted to go this weekend. Not sure if that'll work out as planned...

I was looking through some treasuries and remembered that I hadn't shared any here lately so here goes:

I think I'll save the rest for tomorrow :) note to self: remember not to wait so long to share ;)

One of my favorite recent treasuries was even featured on this blog:heartmadeblog.com

-Off to get some (more) rest- 

Knitters Block Unblocked?

2011-09-19T11:49:00.000-04:00

This morning I was reading about 'knitters block'~as in Writer's block but for knitters. 

Unfortunately I cannot remember where I read this story-if I see it again I'll be sure and post the link.

I realized that's what I've been suffering from-until possibly yesterday, when I remembered I had this book by Cathy Carron called 'Hattitude'.

I thought I'd use this pretty pink angora blend yarn and a vintage buckle I got at the fair this weekend.

I cannot tell you how many projects I've started, failed at, and ripped back out lately.

I've been trying to knit up a bunch of Christmas presents.

I have a lot of yarn to use up-(see below)-and that's not all of it!

Please excuse the blurry photo-I sort of did that on purpose so it wouldn't look as bad-maybe just looks like a swirling blur of pretty colors this way?

This cabinet was organized the other day. Every time I start a new project, it all falls apart. I have so many skeins of fingering, or dk weight yarn, and lots of patterns that require bulky :0 -but I think this pattern might work out. Wish me luck :)

Country Living Fair 2011

2011-09-18T11:00:00.000-04:00

I don't have time to write a long post about yesterday just now, but I did take some photos of some things I got.

A great day~ perhaps I'll share more photos soon ;)

We had lots of fun and I got to meet the super nice, and talented Jennifer Paganelli of Sis Boom! I've admired her work for years now :)

Lots of lovely inspiration~I can't wait to get started!! :)

~Have a lovely Sunday~

Might I Interest Anyone In A Phone Cozy?

2011-09-16T13:01:00.000-04:00

Finally. Done.

For some reason I struggled with making something so small this time. Usually I prefer smaller projects.

This is one of my all time favorite fabric prints. And buttons

;)

I was thinking of making these for the shop but as I was browsing around etsy-it seems like there are so many variables of phone sizes, with or without the bumpers, pockets and so on...now I'm not so sure. Mine is bigger than an iPhone.

I might make a few and see how it goes.

I have some new kindle cozies in the shop too.

And a sale going on you might not want to miss out ;)

Coupon code in the shop announcement-good 'til the end of the month :)

Parlez Vous Francais?

2011-09-15T11:19:00.000-04:00

 I hope you aren't tired of seeing these cozies ;)

This one is for a kindle.

I think there may be some confusion about the cozies... Some are for kindles or e-readers. Some are for iPads...

I try to throw my hand in some of the shots to show scale- hopefully that helps a bit...?

I haven't yet made any for phones but, I got a new phone for my birthday and it needs a new case so I'll try and make extras for the shop :) It's not an iPhone but a nice one like that, and I'm still getting used to it. My old one was pretty old and barely had lettters or numbers left on it ;0

P.S ~I got this nail polish for my birthday. It's called 'mint sorbet' by Sally Hansen. I usually have wild colors on if anything, and apparently I am becoming well known for it as I also got a bright pumpkin orange and a taxi cab yellow bottle as gifts too! Stay tuned they'll probably be in a 'scale shot' soon :)

Off I go -I have more things to work on today~what have you been making?

I Think I'm In Love With Making These ♥

2011-09-12T12:16:00.005-04:00

I love making these cozies  :)

I squeaked by with just enough fabric to make another one.

Yay! 

I'm not sure how ~ but the 2 cozies managed to have the blue rose in the same place without even trying!

Here's a closeup of the big fancy chartreuse button I added...

These 2 look very similar but I did have to change the pocket trim and the flap lining. In some ways I like this one better-

but...

to the shop it's going :)

Edited to add:
What a weekend/first part of the week....

*So far my laptop completely crashed and burned(not literally but it's a goner) I've lost photos I don't want to think about or try and remember which.

*My car won't start and it's stuck somewhere I hope won't get it towed-the post office where I was delivering an order :0 I've had trouble with that car for ages. It only ever doesn't work for me. Thankfully my Mom lives nearby and picked me up so I could get my husband's car(that had trouble too and I'm hoping will cooperate for the rest of the day so I can pick up kids...)

I did come home and managed to make/finish up this tablet sleeve. It's perfectly granny chic style :)

It's in the shop now :)

It Was My Birthday

2011-09-12T10:11:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was my birthday.

I never know what to post about-no words seem enough.

Talking about a birthday on 9-11 doesn't seem right.

Just thoughts and prayers for peace.

I Hate When This Happens (lol)

2011-09-10T10:03:00.001-04:00

Oh no!-

You'd think this would be a good thing, right?...

A new iPad cozy...

All the stars aligned...

Or at least the velcro did ;)

The iPad fits...

I've made something I meant to add to the shop-

BUT, I really want to keep it ;)

As you might know, if you've been reading my blog for awhile-I'm partial to blue roses.

And, I really need one of these cozies myself ;)

Keep, or not?

Buttons, or not? 

Decisions, decisions...

**Don't forget Coupon code:BDAYSUNDAY (yep, it's mine tomorrow:)
for ten percent off anything in the shop -to be entered at checkout :) **

New Fabric Find

2011-09-08T10:32:00.001-04:00

Not sure if anyone goes back and reads the replies to comments in the comments section, but in case not, I just wanted to thank everyone really quick~ for all their kind comments on my kindle cozies-and ideas/advice and whatnot for the cases. I have some new ideas to work with :)

I just came back from Joann's to get some more supplies to work on iPad and iPhone cozies.

I spied some of this Denyse Schmidt fabric, which I had never seen before in this maroon color. I keep looking for the green colorway.Anyway I got some to add to the shop just for fun-it's just a half yard. I got all they had left :0

Don't forget -my birthday gift to you-coupon code:

BDAYSUNDAY

for 10% off-anything in the shop~all September :)

New One & Coupon Code

2011-09-07T11:15:00.001-04:00

These have been keeping me busy lately. Here's another I made with French General fabrics-one of my faves ;)

Very soon I will be adding iPhone and iPad sleeves :)

P.S-Sunday's my birthday- I've added a coupon code for 10% off this month~ starting now :)

Code: BDAYSUNDAY

If The Kindle Fits ...

2011-09-06T12:34:00.001-04:00

O.k- I went to 'work' and the kindle fits-yay! This one will be listed as soon as I'm done here....

Through design trial and error -I have also created one that fits the 'cruz' and a 'pandigital'. I'm not sure which of any of these are  the most popular. I know they all are a bit different.

The pink case I made,  has a rounded bottom and no gusset-I'm not sure which way I like better.

Feel free to let me know what you like best-Or if there are any important features I'm missing. I like to keep things as simple as possible but cute and functional at the same time....

wider version

I wanted to thank my blog buddies: fernandflora for asking about these the other day. Which reminded me that these were on my to do list(!)

Becca too~ thanks for the tips on iPad cases...I just got a version of one of those myself ~and need to make one for myself as well... so I'll be working on those too :)

Something New I've been Working On

2011-09-05T15:55:00.000-04:00

I've had lots of requests over the past while, to make kindle cozies-or e-reader cases.

I've just gotten around to it.

I do not have one myself, alas, so I've had to work with dimensions on e-reader websites, then go to a family member's workplace to trace a real live one. Hopefully, this is the right size (now):0

I will be making quadruplezillion percent sure tomorrow by putting a real one inside the case-before I add it to the shop.

I'm hoping it's right because I'm anxious to work on a new one ;)

These seem very similar to my phone cozies-only larger and are inspiring me to work with new/old fabrics I have :)

*I do have a question for those that have one. Do you think a gusset is necessary? The e-readers seem so thin that I'm not sure there's even a need for it.If not, I have another idea to try for the shape.

Are you working on something new?

One More

2011-09-04T13:33:00.000-04:00

Here's another little wallet for the shop. A tone on tone dusty purple print and matching beigy purple flowery pocket and flap. These prints are from Japan -I believe they're Lecien-.They're super soft.

Have a great Labor Day Weekend :)

Mauve Rosy Wallet

2011-09-02T08:03:00.000-04:00

I love this fabric~I seem to be drawn to blue roses-and the faded prints are so pretty,I think.

It's in the shop now :)

Maybe today I'll make another purse like the one from yesterday's tutorial ~ for the shop?

Tutorial: How To Sew Vinyl Handles To A Bag

2011-08-31T11:01:00.002-04:00

I don't write tutorials often enough here~so when I decided to add these vinyl handles to the bag I just made ~I thought it would be a great opportunity, and took some step by step photos :)

Please note:I've never stitched this kind of handle on before and I couldn't really find a tutorial ~ so if you know of a better way~ I'm listening ;)

I should mention, the handles are from Inazuma, and I got them here

I chose to stitch the handles on with perle cotton. (I also

got this from the same shop as the handles.)

First, measure where you want your handles to be on your bag. Then, pin through one or 2 of the holes to keep them in place.

I lined up one, then matched up the second side.

Second, cut a length of the perle cotton, and thread a needle.One with a big enough eye and not too sharp is what worked best for me. A thimble would also be nice to work with on this project-but I don't have one(!~runs and adds one to shopping list)

3rd, On your first handle, come up under the first hole with your needle(so the thread doesn't show on the lining side).

click on photo to see it larger :)

4th, Go all the way around in this way. Your last stitch (since there are an odd number of holes) should end with the needle coming up through the handle.

Last stitch comes up through last hole

Now, just go back, down into the same hole as your 2nd to last stitch (see photo)

Continue around this way 'til you get back to the other side... Ending, going down through the 2nd to last hole.

Tie a knot where your last knot was. Tuck ends under the handle.

I may cheat and add glue here just to keep things in place  ;)

Repeat for the remaining 3 handles.

Ta~da!

Bag Complete :)

If something isn't clear or you have any questions, please let me know in the comments section...

Something New

2011-08-30T13:22:00.000-04:00

I hadn't made one of these in awhile

I missed them ;)

Another Head Band

2011-08-29T10:46:00.001-04:00

We made up another headband. This one is made from one of my favorite rosy prints by Grand Revival~along with some vintage crochet trim and seam binding....

I can see how these could be addicting to make. I have so many smallish pieces of fabrics and trims I hoard ~I should have enough to make quite a few!

Also plans to make some brooches~and felt flower brooches...Lots of goals let's see what I get accomplished...

What are you working on today?

P.S~ via a comment here on my blog-I've discovered a lovely new blog called millefeuilles.She lives in Tours- I lived near Tours when I was younger and went to school there for awhile! Anyway, she has a giveaway for a beautiful book and a knitting pattern ~going on til September 11...Check it out via the link :)

Serre Tete

2011-08-28T17:01:00.006-04:00

Serre Tete is the French word for headband.I like tight(serre) headbands myself, but these are just right-not too tight, not too loose.

My daughter wants to add something to the/my/her own(?) shop. She's a great little artist and I'm really tempted to sell prints of her work... She did a self portrait the other day that looks exactly like her! 

I love to draw, but realistic is definitely not my forte.

Anyway, she decided that for now, headbands would make a good project to work on, they seem to be popular too. I told her to help me pick and choose some fabrics, trims and buttons ~along with the felt we shared in the last post,we'd put them together together ~and we'd give her the 'profits'

from the sale.

What do you think?

Shop Love

2011-08-27T10:57:00.000-04:00

We made a field trip to Columbus last weekend and I always like to make a point of stopping at a fabric shop called Sew To Speak.

I got all these pretties you see here. Well, some from a trip or so ago-love these felts-I'm working on a project with them right now :-)

My daughter recommended the nose for the smiley face ;-)

I also have a plan for the blue handles and wish I would've gotten more. Next trip-when we go to the Country Living Fair?

Treasury Catch Up Part 2

2011-08-26T17:53:00.001-04:00

Here are some more treasuries to share-I sure got far behind ;0

New Goodies

2011-08-26T13:21:00.001-04:00

The other day I found out that there are more -new- Denyse Schmidt prints at Joann.

I went today and tried to find the Whimsy Bouquet-love the colors. However (my luck)that one wasn't there.

I know it can be frustrating to try to find all of these -especially if you live somewhere where there isn't a Joann~or somewhere they won't ship to...I have a few semi close to me so I will eventually find it ...crosses fingers...

I picked out my favorites and will be adding small quantities to the shop.

The vintage buttons won't be included ;)

I got those at a shop in Columbus on a fun trip last weekend :)