Sew Sally

Modern Patchwork

2011-11-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

I am super lucky to count Elizabeth Hartman as a friend, but even if I didn't know her personally, I would be anxiously awaiting her new book! It will be available in May 2012 from Stash Books. See more details on her blog at Oh, Fransson!

Quilt for C + K + A

2011-09-16T23:34:00.000-07:00

My super awesome friend C had a baby. We know the gender NOW that the baby has been born, but at the time of quilt-making, it was unknown.

It was really hard for me to let go of making a feminine quilt (I really thought it would be a girl!).

So I let go of the idea of the quilt being for the baby. I just made the quilt for my friend.

And she liked it.

Which is all I really wanted.

Make your own t-shirt

2010-10-30T21:11:00.000-07:00

If you haven't tried it yet, you might be surprised at how easy it is to sew up a t-shirt. Knit fabrics can be tricky to understand and it can be challenging to learn how to manipulate them. Once you learn that part, you can take off in garment sewing!

I am teaching a T-Shirt Class on Sunday, November 7th at Modern Domestic. Class meets 10am-2:30pm with a 30 minute break for lunch.Because there isn't usually homework between the sessions of the t-shirt class, I am able to offer this as a one-session class.

In class, you will learn how to handle knit fabrics so they lie smoothly during cutting, how to manage those pesky curling edges, how much to hem to prevent the hem from rolling up, as well as countless other tips for making drapey, silky smooth t-shirts. Many of the things you learn will also apply to heavier weight knit garments such as sweatshirts or yoga pants.

Click here to learn more and sign up.

Blind Hem Tutorial

2010-09-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

I have a new tutorial up at the Bolt Blog. It's about BLIND HEMS! Woot!

Emaline Skirt Class

2010-09-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

I'm teaching an a-line skirt class at Aloha Vac and Sew (SW 185th and TV Hwy). It's the Emaline Skirt - very cute, a little sassy, and a flattering fit! Learn to put in a zipper and make a quick and easy skirt that could be your Fall staple!
Call Aloha Vac and Sew to sign up: 503-649-6050
Class meets Mondays, September 20th and 27th, 6pm-8pm. $40. Machines provided.
And folks, you don't have to make it in the clown-ish prints that they show on the front pattern. I'm thinking a nice gray or dark brown linen would look fantastic and hang beautifully. Pair it with some tall boots and you've got it made.

Emaline Skirt

Jeans!

2010-09-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

Upcoming class:
Jeans at Modern Domestic
Sundays, September 12, 19, 26
Noon-2:30pm
$115 plus supplies

Make jeans that fit you just right!

Kimono Dress

2010-07-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

I made the Kimono Dress in the Heather Ross Weekend Sewing Book. I wanted to make it out of knit fabric, and I scored some inexpensive, yet stable interlock knit at my nearest mega-store, so I was willing to consider this dress a muslin.

Yes, I bought the fabric to match my shoes.

The sash fabric is silk from a different mega-store. I got it on clearance in the bridal section and could only get the 1/4 yard that you see there. It is nearly 44" wide and I simply cut it in half lengthwise and sewed it together. I finished the edges with a rolled hem on my serger, using wolly nylon in the upper looper.

The dress itself only vaguely follows the pattern. I made the bodice and then wrapped it around me until I had adequate coverage and a less plunging neckline. Then I took in the side seams of the skirt until it matched the circumference of the bodice. After I sewed the bodice to the skirt I tried the dress on and it was still way too big. So I took inches more off the waist, tapering from under the kimono sleeves to the hip. I got a little carried away and would like it to be a little less snug through my low-waist, but it's soft and comfy and stretchy! I'll be making many more!

Finishing touches

2010-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been over to Sew, Mama, Sew lately, be sure to check them out.

This month is Make It, Wear It!, a collection of inspiration, hints, and tips about garment sewing.

I have a post today about Finishing Touches.

In other news, there are some new classes to check out over at Modern Domestic, including jeans and a bias cut slip! There is also a knit skirt class if you are looking to leap into knits as well as Twist on a Tee, a class where you can design your own t-shirt. I will also be offering an ongoing class called Sewing With Sally where you can bring in any project of your choice (preferably something you've done in a class or private lesson with me) and get the help you need.

Jeans

2010-06-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

I'm still working on my Jalie jeans, but they are slow going.
Most of my sewing projects get done in small bits of time, 20 minutes stolen here and there, maybe 45 minutes during nap time. I've found that the jeans really require a lot more concentration.

The fly is done now and I'm feeling good about it.
I was worried that I didn't have the right size zipper, which freaked me out because I finally had carved out a good hour to work on it and then was disappointed that I hadn't bought a jeans zipper. I often don't buy all the supplies that a pattern calls for because I have such a huge amount of hand-me-down supplies and materials and random stuff.

As it turns out, I needn't have worried.
I had THIRTEEN metal zippers in my stash.
At least four were the right color and had the right size teeth.

So the zipper is in and the next step is to sew on the waistband, which includes cutting off the excess zipper at the top. I would have assumed that I could cut the excess off the bottom, but the pattern has you place the bottom zipper stop in just the right place so that the zipper stop takes all the stress, not the topstitching. Smart. And looking at my store-bought jeans now, I see they are done the same way.

Today I got a nice mention from Amy Karol on her blog Angry Chicken.
If you haven't seen it, I have a post over on the Bolt Blog regarding double needles.
And a post at Sew, Mama, Sew about tools for garment sewing.

It's been busy around here!

Hooded Sweatshirt class!

2010-05-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

**Update**
Class starts next Tuesday (May 25th)
There is still space available!
***

Tuesday evenings, May 25th, June 1st and June 8th.
7pm-9pm

Learn to put together a raglan sleeve pattern, sew a zipper into stretchy fabric, sew on a hood, make kangaroo pockets, and have a ton of fun!

Hoodie class

2010-05-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

**Update**
Class starts next Tuesday (May 25th)
There is still space available
***

I made the raglan hooded sweatshirt from the Built by Wendy Sew U Home Stretch book and I'm a big fan. Because I wanted a snug fitting hoodie, I made a smaller size than normal and it's darling. You'll have to believe me that it fits fantastically - I missed my opportunity for Brian to take a photo of me wearing it. Now the sample is at Modern Domestic.

Because it's a class!

Tuesday evenings, May 25th, June 1st and June 8th.
7pm-9pm

Learn to put together a raglan sleeve pattern, sew a zipper into stretchy fabric, sew on a hood, make kangaroo pockets, and have a ton of fun!

Learn To Sew: Farmer's Market Tote Bag Class

2010-04-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

Have you been lurking, thinking that you might want to learn to sew? Do you have a machine sitting around, and you aren't even sure if it works? Join class on Sunday for the Learn To Sew: Farmer's Market Tote. I will look at your machine and make sure it works. If it doesn't, you will have time to get the machine serviced before the second week of class, which is when we start sewing!

In the first class we will work on cutting out the bag from the pattern and fusing the iron-on interfacing. Does interfacing fascinate and frighten you? Come learn the little tricks to make your interfacing look fantastic!

Class meets three times: Sundays April 11th, 18th, and 25th.
4:30pm-6:30pm
$67

Bias cut camisole and tap shorts

2010-04-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

Sign up now for the Sumptuous Knit Top Class at Modern Domestic!
Class starts tomorrow, April 6th!
If you've finished any other sewing project, you are ready to sew knits!

And once you take the knit class, you can sew the knit camisole, which is taught in the same class as this bias cut camisole (the similarities between knits and bias cut wovens might surprise you!)

This camisole is made from a lovely cotton lawn that I got over at Fabric Depot last week. The trim is stretch lace.

The cami and the tap shorts are cut on the bias.

The back of both.

Soft enough to sleep in.
Pretty enough to wear under a light robe when you have coffee on the veranda with your sweetie.

Class starts May 16th.

Some thoughts on choosing knit fabrics

2010-03-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

I get asked about knit fabrics a lot. I love working with knits, but they come with their own special challenges. Here are some thoughts that I have about choosing which knits you want to sew with, especially for t-shirts, knit dresses, and the camisole/panties sets.

When you purchase your fabric, buy at least 1/4 yard extra for shrinkage and practicing stretch stitches. Pre-wash your fabric as you intend to wash the finished garment. I wash and dry my fabric up to three times before cutting and sewing, just to be sure it won't shrink after I sew it!

Some thoughts on fabric:
There are many kinds of knit fabric on the market, including variances in content (cotton, poly, bamboo, hemp, wool, silk, lycra, etc.) and variances in how the fabric is made, which affects its stretch.

Knit patterns all have a stretch requirement. Fitted garments often require about 40% stretch. There is a line on the back of the pattern marked with a black box and white arrow. You can hold the fabric to the pattern, stretch it, and if it goes to the end of the black box/white arrow, it is stretchy enough to use. Don’t try to stretch the selvedge. Use the middle of the fabric and stretch away from (perpendicular to) the selvedge.

Interlock knits are knit in a special way so the fabric is double-sided, without right and wrong sides. It does not roll, is very easy to work with and I highly recommend it for your first t-shirt! It usually has a 30-40% stretch.

Jersey knits, also called single knits, are very common, fairly thin, and have a tendency to roll. They have an obvious right side and wrong side, just like hand knit items. The amount they roll can be a big challenge when you are cutting out and sewing the pattern. But the fabric has a lovely drape, with 25%-50% stretch. Those who are up for a challenge or who have a serger will find jersey knits very rewarding to sew.

Double knits aren’t just made from that awful polyester from the 70s. Now commonly found in 100% cotton or cotton blends, it is similar to interlock knits in that it doesn’t have a right or wrong side and does not roll. It is usually heavier weight than interlock and has minimal stretch. I wouldn’t recommend it for a t-shirt.

Rib knits are generally used for necklines and cuffs because they have 100% stretch – meaning 4” of ribbing will stretch to 8” and then rebound back to 4” when you let go of it. There are some rib knits that are very fine and delicate, making them good for a t-shirt. They do not have a right or wrong side and do not roll.

When you check the stretch of a fabric, don’t stretch the selvedge edge, but reach down a few inches and measure there. The selvedge will not stretch as much as the rest of the fabric. Stretch parallel to the selvedge and also perpendicular to the selvedge. One direction will stretch more than the other.

Bolt has a lot of very lovely knits. If you choose a stripe or a print, you might be surprised how easy it is to work with! Be sure to note the direction of the stripes! Imagine the selvedge edge running down the center of your shirt from neck to hem and make sure the stripes go the “right” direction for you!

That shirt on your back...

2010-03-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

...did you make it yourself?

Well you CAN!

We've opened YET ANOTHER t-shirt class!!!

This is getting wild folks!

You can join the fun on Tuesday nights, April 6th and 13th,
7pm-9pm at Modern Domestic!

For those of you who want to make the Knit Dress

or the Camisole and Panties,
you need to have made a t-shirt first.

Call Modern Domestic at 503-808-9910 to sign up, or go to their website and you can sign up online!

T-shirt mania

2010-03-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

The T-shirt class that I am teaching at Modern Domestic is almost full. So in addition to the April 11th class (noon-4pm) we are opening another session of the class on May 23rd (also noon-4pm). Come take the class and make a t-shirt in a day!

You have your choice of the Women's tee (nicely fitted, seen below) and the new Men's tee. Both patterns come with 27 sizes (children's sizes through adult sizes), so you can make any size t-shirt you want!

Note to self: get dress form. Our hangers are too wide.

Next note to self: make another sample for Modern Domestic, so this here shirt can be on my body, not on display!
I'm loving the mock v-neck that I did here. I wanted the stripes to line up, so I played with it a bit. Come to CLASS to find out how to do it!

Twin needles in action. Loving the stretch that I get at the hem when I use the twin needles.

Camisole and Pantie Set

2010-03-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

So, with DIY going under-cover, so to speak, I figured it was high time to teach a class on making your own undergarments.

With stretch lace trim, this set is super pretty and still very comfy.

Learn to sew on picot edge elastic and stretch lace. Handle knit fabrics with ease!
Modern Domestic
Sunday, May 16th Noon-4pm

Choose your own adventure

2010-03-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

Knit dress. (I should have modeled it, it's way cuter on a person!)

Make your own at Modern Domestic! We will be using the Built by Wendy book, Sew U Home Stretch (at Amazon(dot)com for $10 right now!). I just finished reading through the whole book and it's really a good one. All you need to know about sewing on knit fabrics, without too many details to confuse. And it comes with a lot of basic patterns.

Class will be held Sundays, April 18th and 25th, 2pm-4pm.

We will spend the first day of class drafting the pattern for the dress you choose. You decide sleeve length, neckline (boat, scoop, v-neck), waistline (empire, regular, lowered), and skirt (gathered or not, flared or straight, long or short). And of course you get to choose your fabric and optional trim for a dress that is truly you. How lucky!

If you have successfully made something else out of knit fabric, come join us!
New to knits? Take the t-shirt class that is offered April 11th, 12pm-4pm.

Going Green

2010-03-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Before:

After:

I had a turtle neck with a very scratchy neck. It was some nylon/wool/angora/cashmere (ha!) blend. And everytime I put it on, it drove me nuts. But I needed something green for St. Patrick's Day, right? So I cut off the neck and cut down the center front. I applied some knit scraps that I had. I cut two inch wide strips on the straight of grain (so it wouldn't stretch much and get all wavy). I folded the strips in half lengthwise and with the raw edge of the sweater lined up with the raw edges of the knit, sewed it on. I folded it to the back and stitched it down.

So during nap time, I got a new cardigan. Yay!

Wanty

2010-02-24T16:52:00.001-08:00

Oooh, I want this bag to be mine. Found while trolling the internet, courtesy of Be*mused. Click the bag itself to see more like it. Navigating the website makes no sense to me. But think about the big stitches on that bag. For one who doesn't totally love handwork, I can totally imagine sitting (while perhaps watching the Olympics) and quilting those big and contrasting stitches!

New Classes!

2010-01-23T22:00:00.000-08:00

The new class list is now available over at the bolt neighborhood blog!

I am teaching:

Belle Skirt 1/31 and 2/7 (full)
Zippers I 2/14
Uptown Coat 2/21, 2/28, 3/7 (full)
Zippers II (invisible zippers) 3/14
Learn To Sew: Farmer's Market Tote Bag 3/21, 3/28, 4/4

All my classes are on Sundays, 4:30-6:30pm.
See you in class!

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2010, I am so excited to meet you and greet you. I feel your optimism and potential. I await the surprises you will bring.

I ushered in the New Year at a dear friend's wedding, standing next to another dear friend who flew all the way from Norway (with her 11 month old!) to be at the wedding! Such good friends and so much love, I can't imagine a better way to start the year.

May your 2010 be full of love and joy!

Quilt for a baby

2009-12-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

A little man was born recently.

And he needed a quilt.

So I made him one.

Amy Butler Dorothy Clutch

2009-12-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

I made this clutch for my mom for Christmas. It was something that she started a long time ago and gave me all the pieces, thinking I might finish it. Well I finally did and gave it back to her!

The inside is the gnome fabric by Heather Ross.

The rick-rack trim on the pocket is from our Stash.

My first doll (in a long, long time)

2009-12-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Having a baby niece is awesome!

Here Gretel is playing with the doll that I made her. I forgot to take a picture before the doll was wrapped, so I'll have to see if I can get another picture of her! She has a velour body, wool yarn for hair, an embroidered face, and a cotton and linen dress with ribbon sewn on the hem of the dress.

I think the last time I made a doll, it was for myself and I was about 10 years old. Making this doll for Gretel, I was working from memory of the doll patterns that I've been seeing popping up everywhere, especially Autumn's cute dolls. She sells the pattern at Bolt, but when I started the doll, it was late at night and there was no way for me to get it!

More of the jacket

2009-12-26T21:45:00.000-08:00

edited to say:
I wrote a review of the jacket for the bolt neighborhood blog and you can find it here.

I heard that the class is already full, but please, put your name on the wait list, you NEVER KNOW what might happen!

So, I cut off all my hair!

And I got some pictures in my new jacket!
The double-breasted-ness of it makes it look a little odd when the top button is unbuttoned. I think I like it better with the collar up.

Here I am showing off the inside pocket that I added.

Christmas Sewing

2009-12-23T11:45:00.000-08:00

I have been sewing up a storm, but except for the things I've sewn for the not-yet-reading crowd, I can't share them here. This jacket is an exception! I started it a few weeks ago with some vintage wool that was in my stash. It is a fabulous heathered tweed and I had three yards, which was perfect, because it gave me enough to cut around the moth holes I found in the yardage!
I also lucked out that I had the lining fabric in my stash (from my Gram Norma, along with the wool!).
I was willing to try out the pattern, knowing that I hadn't invested much in the materials, and as luck would have it, it turned out perfectly!

It is the Uptown Coat by Favorite Things

I only made a couple of modifications. Upon close inspection of the photos on the pattern cover, and wanting as slim-fitting a coat as possible, I chose to make a size slightly smaller than my bust size requirements. I figured that a) the wool + the poly lining would keep me pretty warm and b) I always have at least one small child with me, so it's not like I spend much time in severely cold weather.

I put cording in the buttonholes to make them nice and sturdy.

A nice shot of the lining fabric (and that's the pattern peeking from behind).

It took longer to decide on the buttons than any other part of the jacket! Finally I found some buttons to cover and gave it a try!
Be looking for a full review of the pattern soon!

elna for sale

2009-12-11T09:36:00.000-08:00

Have you been very good?

Are you ready for a new machine?

Because this one is amazing.

Yes, you can sew on vinyl or leather or oilcloth with this awesome roller foot.

With the other feet, you'll be able to sew things that are beyond what you can currently imagine.

$300

Corded strap

2009-11-30T19:59:00.000-08:00

I'm working on the Favorite Things Uptown Coat and it is coming along swimmingly. But I think every jacket is improved with a loop to hang it on a hook. I wanted a sturdy loop, so dug up some nylon cording.

I cut a bias strip 8" long from the lining fabric (because that's how big my scrap was). I folded the bias strip in half around the cording, and using my zipper foot, sewed close to the cording, making sure not to sew through the cording.

Then I slid the bias tube down toward one end of the nylon cord and sewed across the bottom edge of the tube, securing the tube to the cord.

Then I trimmed the seam allowance to about 3/16", give or take.

Then I turned the bias tube right side out by sliding it over itself. The seam where I sewed across the cord was the anchor. You can see in the photo above that I had much more bias tube than cord. This was intentional. Once I sewed the bias tube, I realized it was way too long. So instead of wasting that much cording, I slid the bias tube down to the end of the cord.

Here you can see the corded loop, nicely turned. Because the tube is bias, it stretches a bit as it turns right side out and then relaxes around the cord.

You can also use this technique to make spaghetti straps. Most of the time you will want skinny straps to be corded with something like cotton, and you want to be sure that the cording doesn't show through your fabric.

If you want to make tiny tubes of fabric for applique or other flat applications, you can use my method and slide the tube almost all the way to the end of the cord before you sew the tube to the cord. Then when you turn the tube right side out onto itself, the tube will be hollow and can be ironed flat.

If you skip the step of trimming the seam allowance, you can have a slightly puffy tube of fabric, which is great in some applications (small straps on a doll dress, maybe?).

Christmas Ornaments

2009-11-29T20:51:00.000-08:00

What I've been working on!

I will tell you that attempting to bead during Orion's 30 minute swim lesson, while also trying to keep Soleo occupied in his stroller, was no small feat. Next time I'll plan just to do a little embroidery instead of beading... But a girl had to give it a try!

I took Alicia Paulson's class at bolt and got started on some Christmas ornaments! I'm still a little slow with the handstitching (and Cecily will tell you that my mom and were whispering the whole time, plotting how we could do the blanketstitching on our machines.)

But the class was a lot of fun and I can't wait to hang my ornaments on the tree! We just got our tree on Friday and it's already all set up and decorated. But I think I can find just a little more room for a few of these cuties!

Sisters

2009-11-29T20:36:00.000-08:00

Finally posting pictures from my October trip to Hood River for the annual Sisters Gig!

This year the challenge was to make something using flowers. This is a table runner that I made in time for my friend's bridal shower that I hosted. In the picture I'm wearing my newest Belle Skirt. I made it from IKEA home dec fabric and I love it! It's a bit heavier than my linen one, but has that nice texture!

My mom was the queen of getting things finished! Here she has awesome corduroy overalls for my little one and darling bloomers for my niece!

Me, my mom, her mom, my aunt!

The breakfast table on our final morning!

The view from our rented house.

One of the quilts my mom worked on. I love the vintage feel of the pink and green!

Karen with the Halloween panel that was the inspiration for mine.

Kathy with her floral quilt.

On my way home, I stopped at Bonneville Dam for some shots of the river. I didn't get the picture I was hoping for, but had fun looking around and got some interesting scenic pictures.

Boo

2009-10-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Did I scare you?

This is a wall hanging that I made for Halloween. It was a panel that I quilted and then did the "potholder" technique, so as to skip binding it. If you click on the photo you will get a bigger version and you can look more closely at the picture that shows the back. Because the panel had a nice black edge, I was able to sew along the line and from the front, it looks like I bound it!

I used my BSR and free-motion quilted parts of it, and with the feed-dogs dropped, I outlined around the eyes and some other fun details.

I've been having issues with my binding lately that I'm not really happy with it when I do it entirely by machine. Yet when I attempt to hand finish it, I get all caught up in perfectionism and it takes FOREVER to finish. I needed this done by say, Halloween. Of this year.

Perhaps my handsewing and/or perfectionist attitude will improve upon taking Ms. Alecia Paulson's ornament class over at bolt! I am so excited to be taking a class! It's been a long time since I've gotten to play student. And with my mom in the class, we're sure to have a riot of a good time!

Blog Action Day

2009-10-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

In honor of all that supports sustainability and protection of the environment, I am proud to throw in my two cents about climate change on Blog Action Day.

There is a lot of talk in our house about our carbon footprint. Often I think my husband has gone too far and he has earned the sarcastic nickname "MisterCarbonFootprint". But I really do appreciate the awareness that he often brings, about how to do things in a way that is more gentle to the earth.

If you haven't done it lately, you can calculate your own carbon footprint at The Nature Conservancy's website: http://www.nature.org/initiatives/climatechange/calculator/.

New Classes at Bolt

2009-09-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Bolt's new class list is available at www.boltfabricboutique.com and there are a couple of classes I want to bring to your attention!

First, I am teaching a class in October called "Halloween Helper" to focus on the special project of your choice. Do you have a Halloween costume that you need help on? Bring all your materials and we'll figure out that hook and loop closure on the faux fur!

Or perhaps you are disappointed that a specific class didn't make it on the list this time around? Do you wish that we'd offered the Belle Skirt or the Cute Skirt class? Perhaps the Swing Bag or the Farmer's Market Tote Bag that you wanted to give as holiday gifts?

Bring the project(s) of your choice to class and get some great individualized attention. Class is limited to four students, so you will plenty of time to get all your questions answered!

I am also teaching another session of the Learn to Sew: Farmer's Market Tote Bag. I hear the class is already full, but don't hesitate to get on the waiting list!

Later this Winter I hope to get a Jalie coat class on the list, as well as the popular and flattering Belle Skirt and Jalie T-shirt that I've previously taught.

Well Woman Support Seat

2009-09-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

I was commissioned by my midwife Ellie Legare to sew a cushion to be used by midwives in well-woman care and home births. It was a fantastic challenge!

Because of the cushions needed to be highly water resistant, I made them from 450 denier coated packcloth. Here I am putting in the zipper. I used a teflon coated zipper foot (and a seam guide). For some of the steps, I could have used the regular foot, but when sewing on the coated side, it was important that the foot not stick to the fabric and cause skipped stitches and the like.

Once a hole is in the fabric, it is a permanent hole in the coating, so I couldn't take out stitches and resew seams.

The waterproof zipper. I could have possibly used a regular zipper, but I didn't want to chance it. And frankly, I couldn't resist how cool this stuff is! It is made similarly to an invisible zipper, in that the coils are on the inside. The waterproof coating on the outside of the zipper is really thick and can probably be used in a lot of very wet applications!

The zipper is sold by the yard and the zipper pulls are sold separately. You have to be really careful when you put the pulls on to get them on straight. Here I've sewn across the top edge so I don't accidentally yank off the zipper pull.

I got all the materials at The Rain Shed in Corvallis. I shopped in person and ordered some things over the phone. The store is amazing and their service is excellent, which makes up for not being able to order online! It's like a DIY version of REI! You want to sew your own tent? You want to sew your own waterproof cycling gear? You need fireproof fabric? Reflective tape?
Buttons, gadgets, and gear? Check! They've got what you need!

The finished zipper.

These are two finished cushion covers, waiting for their foam inserts.

I cut the foam with an electric carving knife that I scored at Goodwill. The foam was 5" thick, so it was hard to cut straight.

One of the big challenges was sewing the gusset to the curve without pinning. Since pins poke holes, all the pins had to be within the seam allowances!
But the best part of the project was some hilarious patten testing with my mom, sitting on the cushions and pretending to have a baby. I had both my boys at home with Ellie and my mom had my brother at home with a midwife, so we had some great bonding and some really good laughs!

Technical Sewing

2009-09-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

I was recently honored to be involved in the wedding of two of my dear friends. I've known the groom for more than 20 years and I've known the bride for over 7 years. They are such a perfect match! And being in their wedding was wonderful.

Slightly less wonderful was the bridesmaid dress. Chosen by bridesmaids who are, shall we say, more endowed than I, it was a challenge to fit. A challenge made much worse by me accidentally ordering way too big of a dress.

I ended up taking it to a wonderful alterations place in downtown Portland (picture me parallel parking the minivan and hauling the baby + stroller into the tiny store). It was so worth it! She brought the dress down to a very managable size and from there I was able to fine tune it even further.

It was my first experience sewing with boning and it wasn't nearly as hard as I originally thought. But holy cow, very time consuming! Between taking out the boning, re-sewing the boning, and trimming all the excess seam allowance, I spent a lot of time getting the dress to fit. But it eventually did!

And look! I even got my hair all done! It was so much fun getting all gussied up!

elna for sale

2009-09-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

$350

elna super

The machine has been impeccably maintained and serviced and sews beautifully.

This machine was bought by my grandmother in 1972, the final year that these wonderful machines were made. I have the same machine and will probably never sell mine.

Hard metal case fits snugly to the machine, protecting it from bumps on your car ride to class and sealing out dust when it is stored.

The case is made of two pieces, one of which goes all the way under the machine, so you don't have to worry about setting the machine on the ground as you unload from the car.

The foot pedal fits securely into the case.
This foot pedal is the "electronic" model which has speed control.

The case fits around the machine to give you a large work surface. Remove the case from the machine to use the free arm.

The accessories box comes with all the original pieces:
12 bobbins (one is in the machine)
needle threader, cleaning brush, seam ripper, screw driver, and 12 cams

The cams fit in the machine to expand the stitch selection. There are cams for stretch stitching and cams for decorative stitching. You can combine the built-in stitches with the cams for additional decorative stitches.

The machine comes with 10 presser feet

top row, from the top left:

1. button sewing foot (for sewing on buttons)
2. clear plastic foot (for embroidery and applique)
3. sliding zipper foot
4. darning plate and darning foot
(the plate covers the feed dogs, allowing you to sew in any direction!)
bottom row, from left to right:
5. no-turn buttonhole foot
6. manual buttonhole foot
7. vinyl or leather roller foot
8. quarter inch foot, also called a patchwork or piecing foot
9. gathering foot (feed the fabric through the foot while you sew and the fabric instantly gathers. No need to pull the threads!)
10. teflon foot (on the machine)

The machine comes with the original manuals, including clear photos and detailed descriptions about using the machine. Although the machine was made in 1972, the techniques are all still relevant!

The manual explains how to use each of the presser feet and how to sew the built-in stitches: zig-zag, stretch blind and edging stitch, scalloped edging stitch, overcasting stitch, multi-stretch stitch, and blind stitch.

This presser foot is a favorite of mine. You can use it to sew on just about any non-woven materials, such as leather, vinyl or coated cottons. When you use a regular presser foot with those materials, the foot can stick to the material, causing poor stitch quality.

Once you put a needle hole in leather or plastic, the hole is permanent, so you want it to look right the first time!

Think about making re-usable snack bags out of the newest coated cotton fabrics. Or a rain slicker for someone special in your life! Make bags out of leather or add small leather decoration and embellishment to a project.

A day in the studio

2009-08-13T22:39:00.000-07:00

My mom is here visiting and we got to do some sewing during nap time. I worked on these shorts for the 4-and-three-quarter year old and she worked on a Farmer's Market Tote Bag. There is going to be another baby in the circle of friends and the tote will be the baby shower gift. She is using darling trim that says "welcome little darling" as well as some rick-rack and possibly a bit of lace.

And oh how I love topstitching!
I used to think I would never in a million years make jeans, but these shorts are just shy of "real jeans". They don't have a real fly and the waist is elastic, but that is at the big boy's request. He really doesn't like a button or a snap getting in the way of his hurried hustle to the potty. And the "drawstring" is just like the tightener on his Keens, so I think he'll love them.

The owl is a very old stick-on applique that came from my grandma's stash. She loves owls! I love the little bit of decoration that it adds. I'd already decided on the green topstitching when I found the owl and he just jumped right on!

Here he is, in action!

Red Hot

2009-07-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

edited to add: There is still space in this class!
You could have this skirt in YOUR SIZE!
Call Bolt to sign up: 503-287-2658

Anyone else in the mood for some red hots after this heat wave? Holy cow it's been hot!
Mercifully we have air conditioning (or I would have seriously checked into the closest motel that does!), so I've been working on the class sample for the next class at Bolt.

The fabric is the red silk dupioni that is at the store (near the front door). I had a hard time choosing a color because there are some great choices. But for the heat of the summer, I couldn't resist the red!

Jalie Zippered Skirt
Sundays, August 9th and 16th
4:30-6:30pm
$40

In class you will learn how to properly install an invisible zipper or regular zipper (your choice), how to sew a waistband or waist facing (your choice), and have smooth darts so that your skirt fits you perfectly!

We will also cover blind hems, topstitching to secure a back slit, and working with fine fabrics.

Come check out the sample in the store!

Call Bolt at 503-287-BOLT (2658) to sign up!

I went as far as getting on my strappy heels, so I could take a picture of myself wearing the skirt, but our only long mirror is in the boys' room and the background was cluttered with too many trucks. No sense in squatting down to pick up toys if it means wrinkling the skirt, right?

Feeling the love

2009-07-26T22:16:00.000-07:00

...the love for blueberry season!

Me: in Spanish

2009-07-25T15:02:00.001-07:00

Well, to be more precise, my Zippered Coin Purse Tutorial in Spanish!
See it here: lasmanualidades.com

And if you haven't seen the new Bolt Neighborhood blog, check it out! The coin purse is over there, and shortly there will be info on upcoming classes!

New summer skirt

2009-07-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

This is the Favorite Things Belle Skirt, made in linen.

The slight gathers at the center front and center back give the skirt a little more swing than it would otherwise have. The flounce adds only a tiny bit more twirl to the skirt. If I make it again (this is my second one), I think I'll make the flounce a little flouncier. With this one, I was only barely able to fit all the pattern pieces on the fabric. It's 54" wide, so I knew I needed less than the pattern called for, but I underestimated a bit.

edited to add:

There is a Summer Skirt Sew-Along over at Sew, Mama, Sew.
Check out the inspired ladies and all the skirts being made!

It's been so hot here in Portland that it was almost brutal to turn on the iron, but wearing this skirt totally makes it worth it! I started it last night and in the relative cool of this morning, was able to iron it so I could topstitch it and hem it.

On my work table. And new classes!

2009-07-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

Coming soon - the Anna Maria Horner Multi-Tasker Tote!

And this, the table runner that I was able to get finished in time for the bridal shower that I hosted on Saturday! Whew! We lucked out with amazing weather, and our new deck was the perfect setting. The bride-to-be was as beautiful as always! Now I just have to get cracking on altering that bridesmaid dress that came two sizes too big! Oops. Nothing like a little black satin side pleats and boning to get a girl in the mood to sew... Erg.
But first I'll sew up the sample of the Multi-Tasker Tote!

The new class list is not yet available at www.boltfabricboutique.com but classes have been scheduled!
Call to sign up! 503-287-BOLT

Multi-Tasker Tote: Sundays July 26 and August 2, 4:30-6:30pm.

Jalie zippered skirt! Sundays August 9 and August 16, 4:30-6:30pm

Learn to Sew: Farmer's Market Tote: Sundays September 13, 20, and 27, 4:30-6:30

Harvest

2009-07-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been a bit cool and today I had a great time watering the garden, with the baby on my hip. Since we were gone for the weekend, it had been some time since we'd really harvested. Here I have a cucumber (the first of the season!), a zucchini, stalks of rhubarb, radishes, blueberries, spinach, and strawberries. Already in the fridge: lots of lettuce. Still in the garden: lots of kale.
Yum.
I really lucked out when I married a wonderful gardener.

Cute Skirts class at bolt!

2009-07-05T21:37:00.001-07:00

I am teaching the Cute Skirts class at bolt fabric boutique, starting this Sunday. It is the very popular class that I've taught for a few years now, and EVERY skirt turns out cute. It's uncanny. This is probably the last time this year that the class will be offered. So folks, call now to nab the last space in the class!

bolt fabric boutique: 503-287-BOLT (2658)

class details: Sundays July 12th and 19th, 4:30pm-6:30pm
class fee: $40

Tote-able Towel

2009-07-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

A quickie post -- this is the towel that I made for Orion. He is starting swim lessons next week and I thought this might make toting his towel a little easier on us.

It's from Anna Maria Horner's tutorial, modified with a shorter strap, so it just fits over his 4 1/2 year old shoulder. He can also wear the strap across his body, which he thinks is great too!

In other news, my brother and his wife just had a baby girl!!! We didn't know the gender before the birth and we are THRILLED to have a girl in the family!!! Gretel June was born on the 29th, happy and healthy and all are doing well! I'm headed there now to have another visit before we leave town for the holiday weekend!

Random tip o' the day

2009-06-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

When I edgestitch, sometimes the fabric at the corner gets sucked down into the feed dogs as I pivot around the corner. One solution is to poke a safety pin through the corner to use as a handle. I can hold onto the head of the safety pin and gently pull the fabric to encourage it to feed properly. Just my little low-tech tip of the day!
I'm including this extra shot of my newest favorite project... This shows the heart that I freehand quilted as well as the one of the circles that I quilted around the pigs.

Finished!

2009-06-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

I love the colors even more, now that this is finished!

I pieced the front, to use up every morsel of this fabric! Then, with right sides together,
I sewed the front to the back and turned it right side out.

I edgestitched all the way around and then quilted the two layers together, so that after washing, it won't get poofy. I quilted loops under the cars (like exhaust. Or dust that they're kicking up). And on the top edge I wrote "Soleo, I love you, Love, Mama" by freehand quilting it.

Here he is, trying it out this morning.

Tutorial for Sew, Mama, Sew

2009-06-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

I wrote a buttonhole tutorial for the good folks over at Sew, Mama, Sew.
Check it out here!

Recycled Jammies

2009-06-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Alabama Chanin and an orange event shirt that came home in a size that no one could wear, I recycled the t-shirt into jammies for the wee ones.

For Orion's jammies, I used the bottom hem of the original shirt as the bottom hem of the shorts and I cut down the sleeves of the original shirt to make the sleeves for this shirt. The tractor fabric came from JoAnn Fabrics some time ago.

And then the littlest angel needed a matching shirt. There was just enough fabric left on the original shirt (without using the goofy printed words and logo) to cut sleeves for the little one. You can see in the photo above the recycled hem on the big boy's shirt. I used a zig-zag on the bottom hems, to ensure adaquate stretch and because I was in too much of a hurry to dig out the double ballpoint needle.

Since jammies seem to always come in pairs, and since I had a lot of the tractor fabric, I worked on a second pair for each boy. So far Soleo has his second pair. The blue fabric and ribbing were in my stash, part of the motherload of hand-me-down knits*. I had just enough to make the shirt and shorts. And for those, I did dig out the double needle and you can see I put a proper hem on the sleeves, the shirt, and the shorts. (Well, you'll have to trust me on the hem of the shirt.)

For most shirts, I recommend topstitching around the neck band, to tack down the ribbing and make sure that the seam allowance doesn't curl to the outside after washing. In this instance, I skipped the step because a) my baby has a huge head and I worry about sufficient stretch, even when using the double needle and b) the ribbing is so much wider than the seam allowance that I think the ribbing will prevent the seam allowance from curling and c) these are just jammies!

*My mom's mom used to own a fabric store called The Fabric Lady in Boise, Idaho in the late 70s. We still have old spools of thread, some patterns (they're almost vintage), and a LOT of fabric! I grew up wearing clothes made from some of these knits and now that I have little ones to sew for, some of the fabric is getting passed down to me! Part of the greatness of this is that the knits are 100% cotton and of a quality that is down right hard to find these days!

I guess some families pass down actual clothes. We pass fabric. It always fits.

Little sewing

2009-06-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

For this one:

Some of this:

I get a lot of hand-me-downs from my family. This stack might take the cake! I didn't know that it softened so much when washed, or that it had such wonderful drape! It is Echino by Etsuko Furuya and you can get some here. I'm going to make it into a little blanket for the wee one. A simple blankie that can get tossed onto the grass without worry about staining it!

Sewing Machine Month

2009-06-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

The good folks at Sew, Mama, Sew have declared June to be the month of the Sewing Machine. Here is a chance for all us to get to know our machines a little bit better.

They've started it off with a lovely meme about our machines.

What brand and model do you have?
Bernina Aurora 440QE (Quilter's Edition)

How long have you had it?
2 months

How much does it cost?
MSRP is around $3500, including the optional Bernina Stitch Regulator.

What types of things do you sew (i.e. quilting, clothing, handbags, etc.)?
All of the above.

I have ongoing quilting projects for babies being born as well as an annual quilt challenge with the women in my family. I posted about it here and here. I love my walking foot and my 1/4" foot for quilting. My machine also has the Bernina Stitch Regulator which is about the coolest thing ever for quilting.

I sew a lot of clothes, but mostly simple things for myself and the kiddos, though I am known to throw in zippers and buttons when I need to!

I sew bags. Lots of bags. See side bar for the Farmer's Market Tote Bag pattern I sell.

How much do you sew? How much wear and tear does the machine get?
I try to sew at least twice a week (when my older son is in preschool). The machine gets used, but lovingly. I can really tell a difference when the machine is well oiled and the needle is new, so I clean my machine almost every time I sit down to sew and for sure after each quilt I finish.

Do you like/love/hate your machine? Are you ambivalent? Passionate? Does she have a name?
I loooooooove my machine. Some days even more than I love my husband. She doesn't have a name (yet), but I am passionately in love with her. While my previous machines were really incredibly awesome (see prior post about the one for sale), this one is the first machine that I bought on my own instead of getting as a hand-me-down.

What features does your machine have that work well for you?
Things I love:
-Knee lift for the presser foot
-Needle down (when it comes to a stop and/or at the push of a button)
-Variable presser foot pressure
-Winding a new bobbin while sewing
-Specialty Presser Feet
-Start-stop button (for sewing without the foot pedal)
-A rad needle threader
-Pattern begin button (great when turning corners while zig-zagging or with decorative stitches)
-Speed control (especially with decorative stitches and quilting, to get a consistent speed)
-The Bernina Stitch Regulator. It can be summed up as:

The BSR presser foot reacts to the movement of the fabric under the foot and controls the speed of the sewing [machine] up to the maximum possible speed. The following applies: the faster the fabric is moved, the higher the speed of the machine. A set stitch length is maintained.

Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?
Nope.

Would you recommend the machines to others? Why?
YES!
Of the Bernina Auroras (430, 440, 450), I chose the 440QE because it came with the walking foot (a $150 value) and the 1/4" foot (a $50 value) and the Bernina Stitch Regulator ($a $900 value). The 430 didn't have those particular bells and whistles. The 450 has a 9mm wide presser foot, which didn't appeal to me. I have the option of adding the embroidery module later.
I think Bernina makes the absolute highest quality machines on the market.
And their manuals are very easy to read, making the machines easy to master.

What factors do you think are important to consider when looking for a new machine?
For me, see above under Things I Love.
For you, see my FAQ at www.sewsally.com where I address just that question.

Do you have a dream machine?
Yep, the one I have!

Buttonhole magic

2009-05-09T13:21:00.001-07:00

One of the new classes I am offering at bolt fabric boutique is a Buttonhole Clinic.

If you have been curious about fine tuning your buttonhole making skills, come join us next Sunday the 17th of May. You will receive one-on-one teaching to set your machine to make perfect buttonholes every time!

Call bolt at 503-287-BOLT (2658) to sign up!

There is also still space available in the infamous Cute Skirts class that will be held Sundays, July 12th and 19th, 4:30pm-6:30pm!

Sweet and soft

2009-04-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Soleo giving baby-approval of the first quilt I quilted with my new machine. More on that subject to come!

Photo Challenge

2009-03-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

Before.

And After.
I can't see a huge improvement. I think I need to reread the directions...
To play along with the learning-to-use-one's-camera-properly-for-blog-worthy-photos, go to Quilt Otaku.

Cute craftiness

2009-03-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

My crafty mom knit this sweater!

And then I made the matching pants.

:)
Also coming soon to show off are the other three pairs of pants I've finished this week.

Old stuff I made

2009-02-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Back when I was still pregnant (hence my utter lack of a waist in this photo), I made this quilt for Orion for his bed. He is really into B0b the Builder and fascinated by tools. The fabric is a panel I found and the borders are coordinating prints. It's from The Whimsical Workshop.

And this is the quilt I made from the batik swap. Amazing that it's finally finished.

A better shot of the color.

And here both of the quilts are being used. You can just barely see the red polka dots peeking from under the batik quilt. The red dots are the back of the tools quilt. Orion was so exhausted that while playing a "hibernating bear", he actually fell asleep! That's our laundry basket he's using as a "cave".
:)

I do still sew

2009-02-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

A gift for the next baby!

My friend loved it, which I loved!

I always try to choose backing fabric that makes grass stains impervious. The front of this one was purple batik and flowered flannel. The batik helped to lighten up what would have otherwise been a pretty heavy blankie for a Spring baby.

Zipper-Do-Dah

2009-02-04T11:49:00.000-08:00

image by http://www.allproducts.com

The upcoming Zipper Clinic still has three spaces in it!

Do zippers still give you nightmares? Leave you in a cold sweat?

Call Bolt at 503-287-2658 (BOLT) to sign up for the class!

Class will be held on Sunday February 15th, 4:30pm-6:30pm. The $27 fee includes two zippers, fabric to sew the zippers into, and a handout with pictures that will lead you through putting zippers in, once you are at home and on your own!

In class you will install two zippers. The first is a lapped zipper, similar in concept to the fly on a pair of pants, but well suited to side zippers in skirts as well as pillows and a number of other applications. The second zipper is a centered zipper, perfect for zippers that are on bags or in the center back of a skirt or dress. Both zipper styles are very handy to have perfected and once you learn the tricks, you'll be sewing zippers into everything!

Hope to see you in class!

New Classes at Bolt!!!

2009-01-10T19:33:00.001-08:00

This just in!

The class list is up at Bolt! Call 503-287-2658 to sign up!

Cute Skirts $40

Sundays, 2/1 and 2/8, 4:30-6:30 pm

Zipper I Clinic $27 (incl. materials)

One Night--Sunday, 2/15, 4:30-6:30 pm

Learn to Sew: Farmers Market Tote $60

Sundays, 2/22, 3/1 and 3/8, 4:30-6:30 pm

Knit T-shirt $40

Sundays, 3/15 and 3/22, 4:30-6:30 pm

Amy Butler Birdie Sling Bag $40

Sundays, 3/29 and 4/5, 4:30-6:30 pm

There are also a lot of great looking classes by other teachers. Check them out!
And my calendar is getting booked up for private lessons, so book now to take advantage of the special!

New Year Deal

2009-01-08T10:28:00.000-08:00

***Special deal***
4 hours of lessons in January for only $75!

Fine print: lessons must be taken in January. Book early for best availability.

Once February rolls around, I will resume teaching at Bolt
so book your private lessons now!

SAVE HANDMADE TOYS

2008-12-30T22:50:00.000-08:00

Save Handmade Toys From the CPSIA: A Proposal From the handmadetoyalliance.org:

In 2007, large toy manufacturers who outsource their production to China and other developing countries violated the public's trust. They were selling toys with dangerously high lead content, toys with unsafe small parts, toys with improperly secured and easily swallowed small magnets, and toys made from chemicals that made kids sick. Almost every problem toy in 2007 was made in China.

The United States Congress rightly recognized that the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) lacked the authority and staffing to prevent dangerous toys from being imported into the US. So, they passed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) in August, 2008. Among other things, the CPSIA bans lead and phthalates in toys, mandates third-party testing and certification for all toys and requires toy makers to permanently label each toy with a date and batch number.

All of these changes will be fairly easy for large, multinational toy manufacturers to comply with. Large manufacturers who make thousands of units of each toy have very little incremental cost to pay for testing and updating their molds to include batch labels.
For small American, Canadian, and European toymakers, however, the costs of mandatory testing, to the tune of up to $4,000 per toy, will likely drive them out of business. And the handful of larger toy makers who still employ workers in the United States face increased costs to comply with the CPSIA, even though American-made toys had nothing to do with the toy safety problems of 2007. Toy makers won't be the only ones impacted by the CPSIA, the thousands of US businesses who offer clothing, jewelry and other gifts for children --in essence-- the entire children's industry will be as well.

The CPSIA simply forgot to exclude the class of toys that have earned and kept the public's trust. The result, unless the law is modified, is that handmade toys will no longer be legal in the US.

Thriving small businesses are crucial to the financial health of our nation. Let's amend the CPSIA so that all businesses large and small are able to comply and survive!; - Cecilia Leibovitz (Founder, CraftsburyKids.com)

Slowly.

2008-12-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

Slowly, slowly, slowly said the Sloth.
And slowly I make my way with this blog, having just reached my 100th post in my last post. (And not even realizing it until today.)
And so I share:

In bold: Things I've done.
In italics: Things I want to do.
The rest: no thanks.

1. started your own blog (edited, thanks to Nancy's comment... I had some formatting issues last night when I finally got this posted...) :)

2. slept under the stars

3. played in a band

4. visited hawaii

5. watched a meteor shower

6. given more than you can afford to charity

7. been to disneyland/world

8. climbed a mountain

9. held a praying mantis

10. sang a solo

11. bungee jumped

12. visited paris

13. watched a lightning storm at sea

14. taught yourself an art from scratch

15. adopted a child

16. had food poisoning

17. walked to the top of the statue of liberty (huh? Can you even get inside?)

18. grown your own vegetables

19. seen the mona lisa in france

20. slept on an overnight train

21. had a pillow fight

22. hitch hiked

23. taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. built a snow fort

25. held a lamb

26. gone skinny dipping

27. run a marathon

28. ridden a gondola in venice

29. seen a total eclipse

30. watched a sunrise or sunset

31. hit a home run

32. been on a cruise

33. seen niagara falls in person

34. visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. seen an amish community

36. taught yourself a new language

37. had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. seen the leaning tower of pisa in person

39. gone rock climbing

40. seen michelangelo's david in person

41. sung karaoke

42. seen old faithful geyser erupt

43. bought a stranger a meal in a restaurant

44. visited africa

45. walked on a beach by moonlight

46. been transported in an ambulance

47. had your portrait painted

48. gone deep sea fishing

49. seen the sistene chapel in person

50. been to the top of the eiffel tower in paris

51. gone scuba diving or snorkelling

52. kissed in the rain

53. played in the mud

54. gone to a drive-in theatre

55. been in a movie

56. visited the great wall of china

57. started a business

58. taken a martial arts class

59. visited russia

60. served at a soup kitchen

61. sold girl scout cookies.

62. gone whale watching

63. gotten flowers for no reason

64. donated blood

65. gone sky diving

66. visited a nazi concentration camp

67. bounced a cheque

68. flown in a helicopter

69. saved a favorite childhood toy

70. visited the lincoln memorial

71. eaten caviar

72. pieced a quilt

73. stood in times square

74. toured the everglades

75. been fired from a job

76. seen the changing of the guard in london

77. broken a bone

78. been on a speeding motorcycle

79. seen the grand canyon in person

80. published a book

81. visited the vatican

82. bought a brand new car

83. walked in jerusalem

84. had your picture in the newspaper

85. read the entire bible

86. visited the white house

87. killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. had chickenpox

89. saved someone’s life

90. sat on a jury

91. met someone famous

92. joined a book club

93. lost a loved one

94. had a baby

95. seen the alamo in person.

96. swum in the great salt lake.

97. been involved in a law suit

98. owned a cell phone

99. been stung by a bee

Stockings hung by the chimney with care

2008-12-21T20:48:00.000-08:00

Finished just in time!
The pattern is my own design that I plan to get all written up. They are lined and have cotton batting as an underlining, which gives them a very soft feel. And they are ready for some loot!

Last minute project

2008-12-21T20:11:00.000-08:00

My friend Cecily came over, needing to make a quick project, as in, get-it-in-the-mail-tomorrow quick. Out came the trusty Farmer's Market Tote Bag Pattern and we zipped to the local fabric/craft store for materials. Sadly, they didn't have the webbing that the pattern calls for. So with small adjustments, we made the pattern work with just a yard each of the main fabric and the lining fabric. She had some fusible fleece on hand, so she used that to interface the main body of the bag, using regular interfacing for the bottom (so it wasn't too thick).
And how cute is the small ribbon she added on the side seam?

I love that her bag matches my hallway!

This photo was without the flash and shows the color better. It's the newest Amy Butler, I think.

Back in the saddle

2008-10-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have been patiently waiting, I'm baaaaack!

I am resuming my private lesson teaching schedule and can book lessons starting November 15th. So call or email now to get the date(s) you want!

Maybe you are stuck on a project and need help getting over the bump? Maybe you have ideas of hand-crafted holiday gifts? Maybe you got a sewing machine LAST year at the holidays and haven't mastered it yet?

Whatever the reason, I'd love to lend a hand!

A labor of love

2008-09-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

Some folks asked about my labor sewing project, so here it is. The green cape was the only one that was unfinished when I went into labor. All the capes are for Orion's preschool and I had been asked to make them a few weeks before Soleo was born.
(By the way, his name is pronounced Soul-eee-oh.)

They are a great project and I'm thinking of putting together a tutorial because I finished the neck in a way that makes it easy for a 3-4 year old to put the cape on unassisted. This comes in pretty handy when your hands are full and your superhero needs to get dressed!

The capes have been in use at the school for three weeks now and are getting good reviews from the kids and teachers alike. Orion has announced that he'd sure like to have a red one and a light blue one of his own at home (he only has a dark blue one at home).

Little house for sale

2008-09-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

Casey and Liesl are selling their darling little North Portland house!
2 bedrooms
1 bath
over-sized attached garage
beautiful organic garden
large covered deck
$223,500

Details here:
http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/reo/858527111.html

Growing boy

2008-09-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

These aren't the best ever photos of Soleo, but they show off the gorgeous, fantastic, most wonderful hand-knit sweater that my friend Katy knit! Many of you know Katy as the friend with whom I traveled (to many, many countries). She lives in Norway now, with a beautiful growing family and she sent this to us right before Soleo was born.

The yarn even has a story, as Katy and I were together in Munich when she bought it, more than 10 years ago! It has traveled across the Atlantic twice, and back and forth across the United States before finally getting to be this sweater! I am so honored to have such a great friend who made such a wonderful gift! (Never mind her comment that the sweater can last through "many more children, at least enough to fill the minivan"...)

And while I was taking pictures of Soleo, Orion asked that I capture this moment as well:
He is propped on a birdhouse that he and Papa made at the Corn Roast on Sunday.

I think he misses his gymnastics class, eh?...
Check out those little ribs sticking out!

He's here!

2008-09-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of

Soleo Hess

He was born at home on Saturday the 30th,
9 lbs 12 oz, and 22 inches long!

no baby yet

2008-08-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

Folks have started asking, so I put a little widget up in the sidebar with my countdown. Although I'm hoping the little one comes earlier rather than later, we're prepared to wait until the 21st of September to meet him (that's 2 weeks past his due date, at which point action will.be.taken if he has not yet arrived!)

Once he arrives, I'll post his picture and the details!

And if you haven't yet offered up any good boy names, we're still taking suggestions! :)

There went the summer!

2008-08-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

Time flies!
I'm about to wrap up the last of my bolt classes until December! This Sunday will be my last day teaching until the little bambino is about 3 months old. Right now I have 24 days to go until my due date!

I'll post again after the baby is born, and I'll keep everyone updated on my return to teaching. There will be a class in December and then we'll take a break for the holidays (which will allow me more time for private lessons, for those who have been asking!) and then the regular class schedule will likely resume in late January.

Enjoy the last of summer! School starts in just three weeks for our preschooler!

New Classes at Bolt

2008-07-01T12:07:00.001-07:00

I just updated my sidebar with the classes that I'm teaching this summer at Bolt.

There is still space available in the Learn To Sew class, and the other classes are wait list only.

Please, please, please consider being on the wait list for classes that interest you! In the Invisible Zipper class that I just taught, we had three people have to cancel at the last minute. The SIXTH person on the wait list was able to get in! So even if there are a lot of people already on the wait list, I really recommend giving it a try!

Have a great summer and hopefully I'll see you in class!

Did you know?

2008-06-23T15:46:00.001-07:00

... that Jo-Ann Fabrics is now carrying organic cotton quilting fabric?! On the whole I think the quality of their fabrics is disappointingly low, but I'm willing to give the organics a shot! Especially with my 40% coupon...

Also - if you haven't gotten the bolt newsletter, there are a few classes on the books for July.
Amy Butler Birdy Sling, Jenna Lou's Fiona Handbag, and the Learn to Sew: Farmer's Market Tote. Right now the first two of those classes are full, but there is still some space available in the Learn To Sew class - it is Tuesday nights, July 15th, 22nd, and 29th, 7pm-9pm, $60. Call 503-287-BOLT (2658) to sign up!

Coming in August will be a Jalie t-shirt class and another Cute Skirts class. And then I'll be done with classes until after the bambino is born. Time flies!!! The August classes aren't set in stone, so be watching for the bolt newsletter in your inbox to learn the dates and times.

See you in class!

What's your favorite?

2008-05-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

It's getting to be time to write up the class list for July and August! What classes do you want to see offered? We're thinking about another bag class or two, maybe a t-shirt class, and of course, more cute skirts!!!

Are there other things that you'd like to see? More challenging? More gifty? More garments? More bags?

Let me know!!!

I'll teach through about mid-August and then will take a break to birth this baby! I think I'll be back to teaching by the end of the year - hopefully in time to whip up some holiday gifts!

Come learn to sew!

2008-05-09T08:39:00.000-07:00

I am getting ready to email out the supply list to the students signed up for the Learn To Sew class that we have coming up, and saw that there are still TWO SPOTS open! The class is held at Bolt, on NE Alberta and 22nd -- if you've been thinking that there is someone you know who would love to learn to sew and hasn't made the leap yet, NOW is the time!!!

We will be making the Favorite Things Lunch Bag, which is totally adorable! I made up a sample about 6 weeks ago and we've been using it almost daily. It has just enough padding to protect the apple at the bottom of the bag when my three year old drags the bag through the house. And it fits just the right amount of food, napkins, drinks that the two of us need for an outing.

Class will be held on THREE consecutive Sundays, May 18th, 25th, and June 1st, from 4:30pm-6:30pm, and costs $60.

Call Bolt at 503-287-2658 to sign up! You'll love the class!

MORE Cute Skirts!

2008-04-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

This just in!

We've added two sessions of the Cute Skirts class to the schedule at bolt!

Classes will be held TUESDAYS, 7pm-9pm on May 20th/27th and June 10th/17th. So you can sign up for class in May or you can sign up for class in June. Or you could sign up for both, but that would be a little selfish, don't you think? If you were previously on the waiting list for the class that starts this Sunday, you get first dibs at the new classes. Which is why I say to ALWAYS get on the waiting list!!!

And since the frantic whirl of newly added classes does cause some people to sign up now and cancel later, I still really recommend GETTING ON THE WAITING LIST if you can't get the class you want!

See you in class!
Now you don't have an excuse!

Scissors and things that cut

2008-04-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have a good sized collection of things that cut and I love them all! By my cutting table, I have the rotary cutters and large scissors and by my machines, I have the small scissors. As you can see by all the blue ribbons, I label my scissors, etc as MINE with the same blue ribbon. That way, when I travel to the super fun Sisters Gig and other places where someone else might have the same tool, I know which one is mine!

The scissors I use are all Ginghers. Back in the day, they were made in Germany and Italy, and were stamped with that information. I've heard that the company has been recently bought by Fiskars and the scissors are now being made in Mexico. Mine are all old enough that I haven't had any experience with "new" ones to know if quality has been compromised. I will say (and I tell this to all my students) that although a pair of Gingher shears cost twice as much as Fiskars, they will last 10 times longer. My 7" shears were a gift when I turned 13, I've never had to have them sharpened, and they still cut fabric like it's butter. My 8" shears were a Christmas gift a few years ago and are noticibily sharper, and can cut through much thicker layers with ease. Since my hands are quite small, I really like owning both pairs. That way I only tire my hands with the big ones when I really need to.

But why tire the hands and induce carpal tunnal when there is the good friend the rotary cutter? I also have an assortment of those - one just for cutting fabric, one for cutting paper, and one with a "pinking" blade. I don't really recommend the pinking blade, because I find it really damages my self-healing mat when I try to cut curves with it. When the blade gets dull on my regular fabric cutter, I switch the blade to the paper cutter, saving on the cost of replacement blades. In addition to my 45mm rotary cutters, I also have the 18mm cutter, which is great for cutting curves. It handles better, twisting and curving around garment patterns (think armholes and neckholes) without marring the mat or skipping over fibers.

In addition to a rotary cutter, you also have to invest in a good self-healing mat and some clear rulers. The biggest issue I find with the mats is storage. Unless you have a cutting table where the mat can always lie flat, I recommend buying a medium size mat (18"x24"). That way it can easily be tucked behind a bookshelf when it isn't being used. If they aren't stored totally flat, they buckle and warp and can't be used.

Happy Sewing!

One spot left in the Anna Tunic class at Bolt

2008-04-04T16:13:00.001-07:00

This just in: We just had a cancellation for the Anna Tunic class, meaning there is ONE SPOT AVAILABLE! This is seriously the cutest top that we'll be offering all summer, so hop to it and call the shop to sign up! Class will be held Sundays, April 13th and 20th, 4:30pm-6:30pm. Call bolt at 503-287-2658.

Marching On

2008-03-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

So much for all those posts I had planned for March of The Tools. I may just have to March into April with my tools... Mercifully, our weather has turned from slushly snow and hail to some beautiful blue skies! We're on day two of good weather and I love how it lifts everyone's mood!

Unfortunately, I'm having some odd technical problems getting my photos uploaded to Blogger. And I have such a cute little photo of my "tool" box and of a little wooden box that is labeled "tools". Soon, folks.

Anna Tunic class at Bolt

2008-03-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

I just learned that due to a cancellation, there are TWO spots open for the Anna Tunic at Bolt! This is a totally cute tunic with great details and the class will cover all sorts of interesting things - fit: what to do when your bust and hip measurements don't "match", buttons with loop closures, gathering, facings, and more!

Class is for "intermediate" seamsters, meaning you need to have successfully finished a project or two, preferably a garment. So if you've made the Cute Skirt, you are ready to move to the Tunic!

Grab a friend and call Bolt at 503-287-2658 to sign up!

New Classes at Bolt!

2008-03-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

The new schedule of classes at bolt is now available! Since the owner just had her baby, the website might not be updated for another day or two, so I'll put all the info here and create the links when the website is up. There are a few new classes, so read on!

As always, call bolt fabric boutique at 503-287-BOLT to sign up.

All classes are held on Sundays, 4:30pm-6:30pm.

April 13th and 20th: Amy Butler Anna Tunic
With it's clean lines and modern style, this tunic will be great for any spring or summer wardrobe. You will learn to properly measure yourself for a good fit and you will learn techniques to modify the tunic if you are between sizes or if your bust measurement doesn't match the hip measurement listed for your size. The tunic has a neck facing and gentle front gathers, two useful skills skills to learn! Intermediate skill level please. $40.

April 27th and May 4th: Cute Skirts
It’s that one–the one we keep offering, since you seem to just love it! We use the Favorite Things “cute skirts” pattern-a paneled skirt with a flat front waist and elastic in back. It’s a great first project if you’ve played around with your machine a bit. You’ll learn how to measure yourself to make the right size and have a skirt that you’ll love to wear. Advanced beginner. $40.

May 18th, 25th, and June 1st: Learn to Sew: Lunch Bag
Have you been looking for a good replacement to that disposable bag you pack your lunch in? This is a "learn to sew" class, which means all you need is a working machine (and the manual if you aren't sure how to thread it and wind the bobbin). We will use the Favorite Things pattern to make this great bag. You will choose fabrics for the outside and the lining and will make a bag that includes two handy pockets. Beginner. $60.

June 8th: Zipper Clinic
Are you ready to learn zipper applications? Come learn easy ways to sew zippers in your garments and craft projects. In this hands-on class, we will cover centered zippers and lapped zippers, making you ready to tackle any project that calls for a zipper, from a throw pillow to a prom dress. Advanced beginner. $27 (includes materials fee)

June 22nd: Zipper 2 Clinic (Invisible Zippers!)
Do invisible zippers seem mysterious to you? Have you wondered about their uses and applications? Come take this one evening class and learn to apply invisible zippers. We will discuss the proper uses of invisible zippers, where they are best used, and how to make them look great! Advanced beginner. $27 (includes materials fee)

I'd love to see you in class!!!

Space open in Frenchy Bag class!!!

2008-03-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

I just got news that there is an opening in the Frenchy Bag class that is starting THIS SUNDAY, March 9th. If one of you kind folks is interested in the class, call bolt fabric boutique at 503-287-2658. Call early to nab the space! This class was wait list only and we just had a cancellation!

And who doesn't need a bag like this? The one in the photo is the shoulder bag, and there is also a handbag option that is proportionally smaller, with shorter handles. Very cute! There is a magnetic snap closure, and haven't you always wanted to learn how to put one of those in?!

Come join us in class! Class will be held on two consecutive Sundays, 4:30-6:30pm at bolt -- 2136 NE Alberta St.

March of the Tools

2008-03-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

Over on Heather Bailey's website, I saw she started a month of talking about tools! As any of my students and friends will tell you, I love good tools! They make sewing easier and WAY more fun!

So I'm going to be posting information on the tools I use. All of them can be had at your local sewing store, and I'll post more details about the really unique or hard to find ones!

To start with, let's talk about "pincushions". There are so many cute ones available to buy, and so many darling patterns to make your own. But I use none of them. They all make me crazy, because you have to stop sewing, glance at your pincushion and carefully stab the pin in before you can resume sewing. Who has time for that? In the crazy rush that I have for my sewing time, I need to sew at full speed with as few pauses as possible (this might explain the embarrassing topstitching on a baby blanket I just made for a friend. Oops.)

So I use two magnetic "pincushions". One is a Grabbit - and I love it! It is just the right size and weight, the magnet inside is well placed, and while I sew, I can just toss the pins in the general direction of the Grabbit and it sucks them on to the top. The pins all lie straight and flat on top, ready for me to use them for my next pining.

Last year I got the Fons and Porter red heart magnetic pincushion. It was so cute, I couldn't resist. But it's such a drag to actually use because the magnet is poorly placed. This causes pins to stick to the bottom of it (if you set it on the table near some pins) and when you causally toss pins at it, they don't lie flat. They stick up. Straight up. Pointy end up. This is a real drag when you reach for the pincushion without looking at it, thinking you can grab a pin to help feed your fabric through the machine. It's also a drag when you are pinning anything. Imagine a tomato pincushion where half the pins where pointy end up.

So for now, I use the red heart to catch pins next to my machine. I use the Grabbit when I need to actually reach for a pin. And I regularly move the pins from the heart to the Grabbit when I run out of pins. It works. But it makes me want another Grabbit. ;)

Strangest thing I've seen yet today

2008-02-29T08:27:00.001-08:00

So, it's a cake pan that is segmented to provide different size pieces of cake for each of your picky guests. Would it bake correctly? I would worry that the thick pieces would be undercooked while the thin pieces would dry out. But maybe I'm the one who is picky about her piece of cake?

7 little things about me

2008-02-22T15:30:00.000-08:00

I was tagged way back when by sweet Anjie of studio wellspring and for various reasons (none of them very good), I haven't gotten around to writing up my list of the 7 interesting/unique/unknown things about me. I've thought long and hard and can't come up with much that folks don't know about me, so forgive me if you learned this all the first time we ever met...

1. The first time I sewed, I was three and it was in my grandma's sewing room. I have fond memories of that space, and it was the first that I knew of women having an actual room of their own. At the time, my mom had only a back porch that housed all her sewing. I am extremely lucky to get to have a wonderful sewing room of my own now!
2. Said sewing room is a current disaster area. I don't think anything has been produced in the sewing room since before the holidays. But somehow it is the dumping ground for all that has no other space in our house. We could really use some extra storage around here!
3. In college, I traveled a LOT. In '97-98 I lived in Germany and visited Austria, Switzerland, France (for an afternoon layover), Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Hungary. If I missed one in there, my long time friend and travel partner, Katy will hopefully remind me. What makes this a little interesting is that my most recent trip to Hawaii totally terrified me. I didn't know where to park at the airport or really how to take the shuttle into the terminal. I was mystified by security (what the heck that they don't allow WATER?!), and more than a little afraid of the logistics and details of boarding the plane and staying relaxed during take-off.
4. On my first ever date with my husband, I knew I would marry him. Six months after that date we moved in together. Six months after that we were engaged. Six months after that we bought our first house. Six months after that we got married. It took us another year to get a dog, and another year after that to have our son.
5. My husband brought a cat to our relationship that I have always hated. We have a deal that for as many years as I live with her (we're up to 6 1/2 now), I get to decide the cat-status of our household. Just to spite me, I think she'll probably live to be 22. Ironically, our son LOVES her.
6. I love my sleep. One of my (many) issues with the cat is the regularity with which she wakes us up in the middle of the night.
7. I'm 12 weeks pregnant. This contributes greatly to #6. :) So far the pregnancy has gone pretty well, I haven't been too terribly ill, except when I try to brush my teeth. So if I have bad breath, I'm really sorry! But my toothbrush makes me have dry heaves. It's really inconvenient!

So if you haven't ever done one of these, I hereby tag you!

NEW CLASSES AT BOLT!

2008-02-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

The new class list is available over at bolt!

There are a lot of very interesting classes available including Russian needlepunch, embroidery, pattern making, and the machine sewing classes that I teach. I was out of town when the list first went out, so many of the classes are already full, but it is ALWAYS worth it to be on the waiting list! We had a lovely break from classes in January and it looks like a lot of you are ready to start sewing again!

Also, if there is a class that you're just dying to take, I am still offering private lessons and am now able to give private lessons in Portland on Sundays, prior to teaching at bolt. Generally that means the lesson is 2pm-4pm, depending on how close to the store you live. For rates and other details, go to sewsally.com.

Hope to see you in class!

I'm baaaack!

2008-02-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

It's been a long absence for two reasons -- first I got to go on a vacation to Hawaii, while my son played at Grammie's house. And then when we all got home and got settled, we all got a nasty flu that we're still recovering from!

I'd never been to Hawaii, so didn't really understand all the hype until I'd been there for about 10 seconds and decided I could really live there!

We had a beautiful room that opened out to the ocean for gorgeous views and wonderful sunsets. We snorkeled almost every day and saw literally hundreds of different kinds of fish and coral. We took a sea kayaking trip that totally blew my mind. I'd never been on a kayak before and paddling in the warm ocean was amazing and thrilling and only a little terrifying.

Kealakekua Bay. photo by letsgo-hawaii.com

photo by letsgo-hawaii.com

But the highlight for us was snorkeling with the manta ray at night! We boarded the boat at about 5pm and watched the sun set as we motored about 20 minutes to the snorkeling spot. On the way, we saw a mother and calf humpback whale! Imagine the setting sun and two whales 50 yards away. We got to see the tail flip right before they dove down under the water, an image I'll never forget!

photo copyright Rolf Hicker

Once we got to the snorkeling location, we donned wetsuits and jumped into the water. There were four divers with us and they went down to the sandy ocean floor, about 35 feet down. They turned on dive lights to shine up toward us and each of the 10 snorkelers had dive lights as well, that we pointed down. The snorkelers all held onto a communal floating circle, so we stayed together. It created a sea of light, so to speak, that attracted fish and plankton. Mantas only feed on plankton and since the folks in Kona have been doing this for years, the Mantas know that there will be food there at night.

photo by Lisa Christensen for honusports.com

The Manta swim in figure 8s, doing belly rolls and summersaults as they near the waters surface (where we were all floating). In the US, it's against the law to touch them, but they can touch us! And my husband got "blessed" by the manta (what they call it when one touches you) on one of its turns in the water. It about scared the pants off him at the time, but distanced from the moment he thinks it's very cool.

photo by Lisa Christensen for honusports.com

Having transitioned to big black (Nikon D40X) from the slow and dinky little silver (old Cannon powershot) meant that the photos we took were beautiful, but that we were too shy to actually take the camera anywhere that could get wet. Since we were in the water every day, that means not a lot of pictures of the interesting things we did. But we got an underwater camera that we need to get developed and with it, there might actually be a photo of the two of us together. :)

For now, we're still working on getting well from the flu. We've watched a lot of movies. I've read a lot (I can't stand that much TV) and just finished Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. It really motivated me to work on eating locally grown food. In Hawaii that meant we got lots of citrus, papaya, mango, and bananas. Here that means apples and winter kale, which aren't quite the same. But we're trying!

edited for grammar, sorry!

Peter Callesen paper art

2008-01-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

Fall, 2006

I've been watching the blogosphere (re)discover paper cutting and have enjoyed seeing so many of the amazing things that pop up. Someone emailed me some very interesting paper cuttings and after a little research, discovered Peter Callesen's exhibit at the Helene Nyborg Contemporary in Denmark. The exhibit is called Alive, but Dead.

Beauty and decay are closely linked together in Callesen’s imaginary universes where pure sheets of paper stage open-ended stories. Here birds try to escape their drawings, the Tower of Babel is raised in just one piece and Heaven and Hell are bound together by climbing clematis with fat spiders crawling across their surface.

Take a peek!

17.9 cm tall Tower of Babel, 2006

Bird trying to escape its Drawing, 2006

Burnable Snowman, 2006

Holding onto Myself, 2006

The Impossible Meeting between Image and Reality, 2006

The Lost Sheep, 2006

Traces in the Snow, 2006

Water Always Finds its Way, 2006

The new year

2008-01-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

Ahh, Christmas has wound down, the New Year is here, and all is fresh and new, if a bit dreary here in the Northwest! I've always found it hard to consider January the beginning of the year, when so little is alive and happening. By the time my birthday rolls around in February, the first of the Spring crocus and daffodiles have started to bloom and then it really does feel like a new year. Another year older, another year gone by. And usually by then I will have thought of a good resolution for the year.

So for now, I'm still working on clean up from Christmas! I'm one of those folks who like to get the tree on the day after Thanksgiving and leave it up until the 12th day of Christmas! This year it will probably come down in the next day or two, but with all the winter darkness, I cherish the wee lights on the tree.

And in lieu of the more normal Christmas clean up, we spent the last days of our vacation doing massive tile work in our bathroom! We (by which I mean my husband) tiled the vanity countertop and the bathtub surround. It looks beautiful! I've always been inspired by blogs that show a "corner of the house" and once this remodel is finally wrapped up, I'll post some photos!

For now, here is a bag that I made while teaching the Favorite Things Everyday Bag class at Bolt. I forgot to get a photo of it after I put the square wooden button on it that the closure loops around. I gave it to my mom for Christmas, for a knitting bag. It's a great size bag for lightweight things like that. If I used that big of a bag for a purse (as the "Everyday" part of it implies), I'd load it too heavy to carry!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-20T22:39:00.000-08:00

I'm signing off for the next week as we finally sit back and enjoy some holiday fun! We'll be celebrating with many family and friends in the next week and I hope y'all do the same! Be merry and bright!

Love,
Sally

Gingerbread House: check

2007-12-13T13:37:00.001-08:00

This year was our first attempt at building a gingerbread house as a family.
The kit from Costc0: $8.99.
The amount accidentally fed to the dog: minimal.
The elated sugar high: priceless

ooops

2007-12-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

Sorry the link to the Etsy shop didn't work!

Try this one: SewSallyShop.Etsy.com

Etsy takes PayPal, which is very to use if you aren't familiar with it - and it's the best way for me to receive online credit card payments. Once you purchase the pattern, I get an immediate email and hop down to the post office to mail the pattern directly to you!

Thanks for looking!

Etsy shop is open!

2007-12-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

It's just a small start, but at the urging of one of my students, I finally got my Farmer's Market Tote Bag pattern up for sale on Etsy! Go to SewSallyShop.Etsy.com to buy the pattern!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2007-12-08T19:00:00.001-08:00

Has it really been nearly a month since my last post? Time flies!
Thanksgiving was great ~ a good holiday with lots of good family!
We traditionally spend Thanksgiving with my husband's family in Bend, and we did it again this year, ending the trip with a visit to the Polar Express train in Hood River. It was a bit much, as far as amusement for children goes, but our 3 year old LOVED it!

One of the highlights of Thanksgiving was my father in law giving me his mother's Singer Featherweight. What a dream! It is white, with an aqua case. So very, very special! I haven't had a chance to sew on it yet, but have cleaned it a bit. It's been a very long time since anyone used it, so it needs a bit of TLC, which I am very happy to deliver!
Other recent work has been washing the piles of linens and hankies that I inherited from my great-great grandmother's shop. I think there are nearly 100 of them. Most of them were really musty smelling, so got a few trips through the delicate cycle and now need to be ironed. Some (the ones on top of the pile in the photo) didn't get washed and are still in their original shape - complete with the "Made in Austria" or "Made in Switzerland" or "Made in France" sticker. So sweet.
We got the tree up last week and got some of the decorations up. Still to go are the greenery garlands around the windows. Last year we had them up for something like four months before we were tired of them!
And right before Advent, I finally got the Advent Calendar done for our son. I bought one of those kits, thinking it was the easy way to go... Then I thought it looked flimsy and that I should really interface the pockets for rigidity. Ooops. I ended up scrapping the piece that was supposed to be the back, cutting apart the strips that made up the pockets and just sewing them right on, raw edges exposed. Heirloom quality it is not, but we're making do for now.

It has a dowel and a sleeve for hanging, but we haven't gotten out the nails just yet to attach it to the wall. Inside each pocket is a slip of paper, saying what special activity we get to do. I thought about little presents or candy, but he's getting enough candy these days with what is being handed out everywhere, and it makes him CRAZY. Lucky for me, he actually dislikes chocolate!

So the things we get to do are:
1. Get a Christmas tree
2. Put up Christmas decorations
3. Make Christmas cards (1 or 2)
4. Make gift tags (his drawings or paintings run through my Xyron)
5. Bake cookies and decorate them
6. Buy a toy for charity
7. Make a cape (he's been wanting one)
8. Drive to look at Christmas lights
9. Visit Grammie and Grandpa
10. Read an extra book at naptime
11. Buy a Santa hat (written after he declared he "Had to have one!"
12. Watch a movie with Mama and Papa
13. Make ornaments with Baker's Clay
14. Make pipe cleaner wreaths
15. Go to the Children's Museum
16. Write a letter to Santa
17. Go to the zoo
18. Make a gift for your teacher
19. Have a special lunch
20. Extra book at bedtime
21. Go for ice cream
22. Have a special dinner
23. Wrap presents
24. To Be Determined -- we'll see what works best.

A lot of my ideas came from various places on the internet. The basic idea of doing activities instead of presents came from somewhere that I can't find now. There are also great ideas here.

Project Barbie

2007-11-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

For all of you who love Pr0ject Runway, check out Project Barbie! No joke, this is for everyone who wants to sew along with the talented artists of Project Runway but on a small scale. So you follow the rules and challenges of the show, but make your project doll-size! Very, very cool!

Greatness comes clothed in pajamas

2007-11-09T23:06:00.000-08:00

I just got a CD of photos from my Aunt, sharing more great memories of the Sisters Retreat. What I love most about this picture is the clock. I think that was the day that we all stayed in our jammies. All day. That might also have been the night when dinner got so wild I almost peed my pants, laughing so hard. I was so afraid I would miss something if I got up from the table. It was like being at a slumber party in the 6th grade. But with all the fun and none of the anxiety.

Now that I've been home for six weeks, I finally unpacked my trunk this afternoon. It felt good, but was sad to go through all the projects that I didn't get to finish. With tremendous help from my mom (she's the best!), my sewing room is all spanky clean and organized.

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For those of you who missed the Amy Karol book signing at Bolt last night, I have to say, she's GREAT. Totally sweet, very fun, and incredibly enthusiastic! I was able to say a few words about teaching at bolt and she said she'd heard of me - the greatest flattery! I was all twitterpated to be meeting such a celebrity, and then that she KNEW of me?! It was great.
Even better was the fact that the early afternoon was spent at The Pine Needle in Lake Oswego, where they were celebrating their 15th anniversary and having a big, big sale! They were awesome with the little man (who was a total trooper being dragged along for the ride), and we were able to pick up the Amy Karol book. We got home in time to put the little one down for a nap and then whip up one of the dish towel aprons from the Bend-The-Rules book. That meant I was able to get a little prize when I went to the book signing, since I brought a completed project!

There's nothing as good as being recognized. For being a teacher. And for being a "sewing person" as Amy puts it.

Cheers and happy sewing!

Is it Christmas yet?

2007-11-07T16:23:00.000-08:00

I am one of those people for whom it is never too early for the stores to start stocking Christmas goodies. I love the anticipation, the decoration, the parties. All of it! This year I'll have a bit more decoration at my own house. And on my own self.

These projects were all started at the Sisters Gig. The table runner still needs to be quilted and bound. The back of it has red and green chili peppers for when we either need a bit less wild of a table runner or have already spilled candle wax on that side. The pillow in the center still needs to be stuffed.

And the apron is miraculously finished! Ready to wear! Now I just need my kitchen remodel to get wrapped up so I can start cooking! For the past six weeks we've been without our kitchen and bathroom. It's been nuts! But we're getting close! Next week the floor coverings and countertops go in, then it's just plumbing and putting the finishing touches on everything! Can you tell from all those exclamation points just how excited I am about the whole thing?!

It was a year ago (November 15th) that we discovered the water damage that started this whole remodel/repair. And we'd only lived in the house two weeks when it happened. So when this is all done, it will finally feel like we've moved in!

Some photos finally

2007-11-07T16:16:00.001-08:00

I finally got around to uploading the last photos from the OLD camera. Now the learning curve will begin as I navigate the NEW camera. Of course, now there is so little natural light, I'll blame my questionable photo quality on that (versus, say, my unimaginative choice of backdrops...)

The hood and body of a jacket for the little man's upcoming birthday! The pattern calls for a 1" hem, but I think I'll hem it all the way to the bottom of the zipper. It will still fall well below his hips, so I may add a bit of elastic to keep it from getting drafty.

One space left!

2007-11-07T08:17:00.000-08:00

Due to some cancellations, there is still one space open in the Apron class at bolt fabric boutique! Class will be held Tuesdays, November 20th and 27th, from 7pm-9pm! There are two apron choices: Flea Market Fancy (a tiered half apron) and Flirty Skirty (a very cute bib apron). Come join the fun!