Tracy's Craze

Guitar Cake

2011-11-10T18:40:00.003-05:00

Joshua had his second guitar recital (which he nailed!) and he asked for a guitar cake :)

Tutu Fun!

2011-10-18T01:10:00.004-04:00

The kids wanted to make something for an upcoming craft show (which, as it turns out, is the same day as the boy's guitar recital... we'll have to catch the next one!)

They are still for sale if you don't want to wait until the next craft show.

Dress for June Wedding

2011-06-16T20:22:00.003-04:00

I had originally bought this fabric for an Easter dress, but that didn't happen, so it has become a summer dress. We have a wedding to go to this weekend, and I think this will be quite perfect. This is a modified pattern. I think Simplicity? I just added a row of piping under and on top of the smocking. The back is my favorite (the girls', too).

Summer dress and matching purse

2011-06-03T15:09:00.002-04:00

This is for my Patricia's BFF in North Carolina. Her mom (my BFF) gave me a sheet to play with, and this is what evolved. I had some light colored denim fabric that I used to make a lined matching purse. I wanted to try something new for the strap, so I braided long strips of the sheet. According to Patricia, it's awesome! She's getting the next one!

Summer outfit for Patricia

2011-06-03T14:56:00.003-04:00

This was completely her inspiration. She picked out the pattern and the fabric, and I have to say, it's cute! She wears it several times a week. It was super easy! Simplicity, It's So Easy 2429. The only alterations I made was to line the top crossover part. Also, I used an elastic loop and button for the back closure instead of a zipper.

Smocked Purpleness

2011-06-03T14:53:00.002-04:00

I made this for my cousins' daughter. She's living in Italy, and I'm pretty certain that's the farthest any of my clothes have traveled!

Easter Cake

2011-06-03T14:51:00.003-04:00

I found this idea online and thought it would be perfect for the Easter BBQ! Most of him is cake, but the legs and feet were made with shaped sugar cookies.

Joshu's First Guitar Recital

2011-06-03T14:50:00.002-04:00

He did great!

Kanzashi Flowers

2011-06-02T16:55:00.002-04:00

Well these are awesome!! Thanks Jnet!

http://vimeo.com/6608216

Tutu for niece

2011-03-23T21:54:00.002-04:00

I had some chiffon in my stash and my niece loves to dress up... add some elastic and as much ribbon as I could fit, voila!

Angel Sleeve Bishop RTS

2011-03-23T21:44:00.002-04:00

RTS angel sleeve bishop. I made 2 of them. One is spoken for, but the other is up for grabs!

BSA Pinewood Derby Car

2011-03-10T08:24:00.003-05:00

Our kids are involved in Boy Scouts of America and American Heritage Girls, and last weekend was our troops Pinewood Derby.

The boy debated between a flaming guitar theme or the Zachry NASCAR truck.

Tough decision.

He went with the truck! Overall, he got 3rd in his den.

The driver, David Starr, got wind of the boy's car (well, truck), and made a video to personally congratulate the boy. What a guy!

The boy in on cloud 9, and is determined to win it next year!

Knit summer dress/PJ's

2011-03-01T17:30:00.002-05:00

The problem with knit fabric is that it's just so expensive! And not good quality, I'm afraid. It's just cheaper to buy a knit dress than to make one...

I happened to find this fabric on sale, so for about $2, the girl got a dress/pj's. The fabric is very thin, so I'm not sure I'll let her wear it in public, but it's super cute, and according to her, very comfy... sooo, pj's it is!

Newborn Outfit... daisy print with smocking!

2011-03-01T17:27:00.002-05:00

I LOVE this fabric. This is a super simple dress. The top is fully lined. I piped some edging for the waist, then pleated the skirt for smocking. The bloomers are fully lined, too.

Hot Wheels Wii Gaming Outfit??

2011-02-16T21:18:00.003-05:00

This is what happens when you bring a 6-year-old boy to the fabric store. He saw the flame print and immediately insisted that he needed... NEEDED... an outfit that he could wear while he was playing Wii Hot Wheels. I used an old long-sleeved black T-shirt for the top. I ironed some interfacing onto the inside of the front, then zig-zag stitched the "J" on. Very simple. Alas... I present, "Hot Wheels Racing Outfit".

**I should add... the pants were cut the WRONG WAY because the boy insisted that the flames needed to be SIDEWAYS. Indeed.

Picture Frame Pillows

2011-02-16T21:16:00.002-05:00

The girl has been working on earning her "Sewing" badge. She accomplished it with these! She made a total of 12 of them. Aren't they cute! She gave them to all of the girls in her American Heritage Girls class.

Valentine's Day Cakesters

2011-02-16T21:11:00.002-05:00

Ooh, these are so wonderful! I got this idea from bakerella.com... and I actually posted a similar cookie about 2 years ago.

Just mix 2 eggs and 1 stick of butter and add to a cake mix of your choice (I used strawberry) and spoon onto a cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Let them cool and squeeze some buttercream frosting between two of your cookies. Couldn't be easier!

We made these for the girl's American Heritage Girls V-day party. So fast, so easy, and so much cheaper than chocolate chip... just sayin!

Pillow with Picture Frame

2011-02-09T10:10:00.003-05:00

Ooh, I found this idea in a kids' craft idea book. Isn't it darling? I wanted to try it out to make sure it was as easy as it looked, and indeed it is! The girl is going to make them as gifts for Valentine's day.

It's just 2 large squares cut with pinking shears (no need to turn/press/hand sew!).

On the top square, add a coordinating fabric square (I used a toilet paper square as a guide... no joke!) and an acetate cover to make the frame. What is acetate, you ask? Beats me! I used a report slip - those plastic paper covers you get at Staples. You can get about 8-12 out of one folder.

I sewed the ribbon frame on the plastic first, then sewed 3 sides onto the coordinating fabric. Embellish to your liking, then sew onto pillow top (be sure you don't close up the picture frame!).

Sew the pillow squares along the edge (WST) leaving a nice wide seam allowance. Leave a section wide enough for stuffing - stuff, and close it up!

Add a picture and voila!

Fabric Walmart bag

2011-02-09T10:07:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I've sewn anything, and when I get out of it, sometimes I just sew something simple to remind me how much I enjoy it! Whipped this out yesterday. I used a Wal-Mart bag for a pattern - aren't they the perfect size? It's fully lined with a handy pocket on the inside. Took about 45 minutes! The project definitely did the trick! I'm fully motivated! :)

NFL Cake

2011-02-09T10:04:00.002-05:00

We had some friends and family over for Superbowl Sunday. I've been dabbling in the art of cake making, and this is what I came up with! The stars and football are fondant, but the rest is homemade buttercream icing.

Snowman Plate Craft

2010-12-23T10:16:00.002-05:00

Found this idea online somewhere - years ago!! Just use 2 paper plate... cut the rolled edge off for the face, use some fabric strips and buttons for accents, and voila! Pictured here with our friend from North Carolina, Ms. Flat Aubree!

Perler bead T-Rex

2010-12-23T10:13:00.002-05:00

The boy was so proud of this... and for a 6-year-old boy to invest more than 30 minutes on anything that's NOT electronic, well, I'm pretty proud, too!!

PJ Set for Nephews - With Initial

2010-12-23T10:06:00.003-05:00

My brother and sister-in-law had twins back in May so I figured they needed a way to tell them apart 10 Christmases from now... felt appliqued initials! I just bought some white T-shirt onesies (regular T for the toddler), ironed some interfacing underneath, and stitched a felt cut-out on top. I will definitely be using this technique again!

Puppets and bag

2010-12-23T10:01:00.003-05:00

This set is for my nephew... Mandy, don't peek! I just searched online for puppets, and with a few attempts, I was able to come up with a variety of animals. But animals weren't enough. My nephew loves to wear a cape and be "SUPER WILL", so I figured he needed a Super Will puppet, too!

Bib and matching booties

2010-12-23T09:58:00.002-05:00

I've been practicing applique. This set is for my son's guitar teacher. The fabric has little guitars on it - how perfect! To make it more boyish, I used a denim fabric to tone it down.

Jewelery Pouch

2010-12-23T09:47:00.002-05:00

Well, I got a crazy vision on how to create a jewelery pouch (like the one's "Thirty-one" sells). This was my first attempt, and I'm okay with the way it turned out. I was more concerned with how to insert the zippers and maintain the "fully lined" look. Definitely going to try making some more of these. Great stash buster! And if you can find zippers 50% off, you've got a great gift for a buck!

Christmas PJ pants

2010-12-23T09:43:00.003-05:00

Ahh, the PJ pant tradition continues! This year, I made a total of 9! The trend is catching on :)

Matching Mom and Daughter Aprons

2010-12-23T09:26:00.002-05:00

I've never been big on aprons... until my aunt found a vintage style pattern that I fell in love with! She made a few suggestions (she's a connoisseur and lifetime wearer) and this was the result. It's completely reversible and the ruffle at the bottom is actually a flounce. To make it reversible, I just put the buttonholes on the apron, and the neck strap has several buttons on each side (so you can remove if you want to reverse the apron, but also to make the size adjustable).

The child's apron is slightly different. I recently visited a craft show with my mom and one of the vendors was selling these adorable child's aprons. It's a simple smock style apron, but the straps are a satin ribbon. And instead of sewing the ribbon in place, there's a casing along each underarm side. Insert the ribbon at the bottom side opening, send it out the top at one neck side, then send it back down the other neck side, and out the opening at the other underarm. To secure, just pull the sides - it adjusts the entire apron to grow with your budding chef! Sounds a little confusing, but it makes the apron completely adjustable, and oh, so easy!! Just be sure you have a really looooong ribbon!

Smocked Bishop for Thanksgiving Dinner

2010-12-02T20:34:00.004-05:00

I finished up this bishop literally the morning of Thanksgiving for my daughter! They're so classy... it was worth the effort.

Camo Cake

2010-11-29T20:03:00.004-05:00

The boy asked for a special ops helicopter cake... he got a camo cake, instead! Made with a million star dots!!

FOUR hours and a BOTTLE of wine later... voila!

Halloween Luminarios

2010-11-29T19:56:00.002-05:00

Found this idea in one of those recipe idea books that you find at the check-out. They were so easy. Recruited the kids to help with the cutting and pasting. That was they're ante for making me go trick-or-treating with them!!

Why, YES! I CAN make sushi!!!

2010-11-29T19:53:00.003-05:00

My awesome cousin, Alicia, taught me and supplied me with all of the necessary know-how and gadgets to make sushi at home. And it's so much fun!! The kids got to pick what they wanted in them... and what they wanted omitted, more importantly!

Pumpkin Cake Pops

2010-11-29T19:49:00.003-05:00

I WISH I could take credit for these!! My friend, Heidi, made these. I've been wanting to try for years, but was always intimidated. No longer!! Perhaps Frosty the Snowman pops - coming soon?

Pumpkin Nachos

2010-11-29T19:44:00.003-05:00

How cute!! Just use a pumpkin-shaped (or any other shape) cookie cutter on a corn tortilla, top with cheddar (it's orange) and broil for a few minutes! Ghosts are also easy with mozzarella. The kids liked these so much, they requested them for lunch AFTER Halloween, too!

New top - - - for ME!

2010-09-26T19:04:00.005-04:00

I haven't sewn anything in months. Boys went to a gun show and the girl is sick, so I took advantage of some ME time!

This is Simplicity "It's So Easy" number 2962, and man, was it easy! I used a combo of view A and B - I didn't want sleeves, but the pockets were ADORABLE! Plus, I liked the longer length.

Really, there were no alterations. I used cheapo fabric since this was my first go with this pattern. Under the arms needed to be pulled in, and if/when I use this pattern again, I'll pull in the shoulder seams about an inch on each side. AND, the next time, I want to add some jewels to the collar. This top is dying for some BLING!

ACK... and without the glare!

Cake for a dinner party

2010-09-12T23:13:00.003-04:00

Learnt how to fan strawberries... thank you YOUTUBE! Simply slice the strawberries, but leave the top and stem intact. The thinner the slices, the better. Then just push down on the stem and fan the strawberry out. So simple and so elegant.

Cake Practice

2010-09-06T18:47:00.003-04:00

Wow! It's been a while!! We moved across the country - that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it!

The kids' birthdays are right around the corner. I let the kids pick out the cakes they wanted from the local grocery store. $40 a piece! Yeah, so I'm making their cakes this year. (Unless Super Cyndi wants to fly out and be on cake duty.)

I've always wanted to be a great cake decorator, but I must give props to those that can do it. It's HARD! Steady hand is necessary, and I just don't have it.

This is my first attempt with rolled fondant. I've played with marshmallow fondant. It's fun, but not quite as classy (looks powdery).

This cake is just a yellow cake mix with the Wilton buttercream icing recipe on top. Rolled fondant on top of buttercream icing. I also added a few drops of almond extract to the fondant, since fondant is actually pretty gross.

The key is to stick the cake in the freezer for about 45 minutes between each step. (bake, freeze cooled cake, apply icing, freeze, smooth icing with hot knife, freeze, apply fondant, freeze, apply decorations, done!)

New Flannel PJ's for spring!

2010-04-09T21:04:00.001-04:00

Made these while in FL. The kiddos love them! The boys' is a dino print and the girls' is a pastel print that she'd picked out, ohhh, 2 years ago!

SpongeBob PJ pants

2010-02-12T09:49:00.001-05:00

Yay for spongebob! The kids absolutely LOVE these! I took the picture on my phone so it's a little blurry!

Crocheted hair accessories

2010-02-12T09:37:00.002-05:00

Okay, these are so fun! And so simple it's really a crime!

They only require a few yards of yarn, so it's great for using up scraps.

You can find the pattern here:

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/70sponyties.html

Scrap blanket

2010-02-12T09:36:00.003-05:00

This is the mother of all grannies!

I had some leftovers that I simply couldn't toss, so this is what evolved.

Knit dress

2010-02-12T09:33:00.002-05:00

I really would like to master the art of working with knits. It's harder than I thought it would be... really hit or miss.

This came out "okay". The girl loves it because it's so soft and well, has bright flowers on it. I have enough fabric to try at least one other pattern, so I'm going to give it another shot.

Fun spring butterfly dress

2010-02-12T09:29:00.002-05:00

This is just a simple dress pattern... it wasn't designed to be smocked, but this alteration is super easy to make. Instead of using the bottom part of the dress pattern, simply use the entire width of the fabric for both the front and back and pleat a few rows. The simple addition of a few smocking rows really adds a personal touch. Sorry this is a wrinkly mess!

Matching brother/sister outfits

2009-12-06T20:10:00.003-05:00

Some friends of ours are having a boy so I made a brother/sister match for them to wear this spring. They're in Florida, so they can get away with this kind of thing by March! If you look carefully, you can see that the boys' romper is a cowBOY fabric by Michael Miller and the dress is made with coordinating cowGIRL fabric.

Matching PJ pants

2009-12-06T20:06:00.002-05:00

This fabric was purchased after Christmas LAST year... back when the kids are shorter. It was meant to be a pair of pants and a gown, but the kids have grown 1/2 yard and a gown wasn't possible. I like the way the pants turned out, and with a coordinating T-shirt, I think they'll be cute. I added a cuff to the bottom and added piped trim for the boys' pants and rick rack for the girls'.

These are for some friends, who, I'm sorry to say, will wear matching Christmas PJ's for the rest of their life if their mom has her say.

Towel with hoodie and Ribbon trim

2009-12-06T20:03:00.003-05:00

I made these for my nieces and nephew. I swiped the idea from Jnet. Very easy to make. Just connect a full-sized towel to a hand towel and add some trim! Very fun with a personal touch! Great for kids with siblings!

Another Pancho

2009-12-06T20:01:00.002-05:00

I'm addicted to making these. I'm on my 5th!

The boy turned 5!

2009-12-06T19:57:00.003-05:00

The boy turned 5 years old. He wanted a "FORT" cake, so with a little help from a Pillsbury book, we came up with THIS.

Indian Costume

2009-11-19T16:36:00.003-05:00

A friend asked me to make an indian costume for her son for a school play. I found some really fantastic felt cloth that was very suede-like.

Poncho

2009-11-19T16:32:00.002-05:00

Fun poncho. This is Martha Stewards "Coming Home" pattern. It's free at http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/70368AD.html?noImages=

Picture-smocked Romper

2009-11-08T18:44:00.002-05:00

I was commissioned to make this for a church up the road. They're putting together a basket for a new mom. It had to be unisex, so when I found this plump little clown I knew it'd be perfect. I also crocheted some red booties to match, but for some reason they didn't make it to the camera.

Lion's Brand Pancho

2009-10-19T08:55:00.002-04:00

Super easy and super cute!

I found the original pattern here: http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/khs-scallopEdgePonchoKids.html?r=1

But I didn't finish the edge with the giant scallops. It's for a toddler, and it was getting too big!

Fun Halloween Food

2009-10-19T08:41:00.005-04:00

Halloween crafts are my favorite... well, and Christmas. And Easter has beautiful spring colors... ah, well, here's some Halloween food fun!

1. Mummy on a stick. These could not be more fun... Just jab a few giant marshmallows onto a large kabob. Using fruit leather (I used Fruit by the Foot, and while it was still rolled, I cut it into thirds - easier than you'd think), wrap the little guys up!

Found this idea here: http://www.pillsbury.com/Recipes/ShowRecipe.aspx?rid=37963

2. Ghoulish Shepherd's Pie. Follow your favorite shepherd's pie recipe, but instead of spreading the mashed potatoes over the top, fill a large plastic baggie with the mashed potatoes (don't try this if they're steaming hot!), cut a bit of the corner and pipe ghosts onto each plate. Add green sweet peas for the eyes and viola!

Found this idea here: http://www.recipezaar.com/Spooky-Shepherds-Pie-189511

Christopher Columbus Craft

2009-10-19T08:35:00.002-04:00

The kids finished studying Christopher Columbus on, well, Columbus Day. We made this neat craft to celebrate knowledge of this great explorer.

Really, no explanation necessary. Simple and fun... We'll probably use the same concept during our study of the Pilgrims!

Butterbeer

2009-10-19T08:24:00.005-04:00

Well, I've finally gotten around to reading the Harry Potter books. Wow! What and adventure! I began in early September and finished in about 6 weeks. I "get it" now!

If you haven't read the books, the kids celebrate Quidditch wins by drinking butterbeer. Well, this sounded so delightful, I set off on Google to find a recipe. Apparently, it's an actual beverage they drink in Europe. Here's a recipe for those interested. And YES, it tastes EXACTLY like... well, "butterbeer"!!

Ingredients:
1 beer - your choice... I'd recommend something light
1 egg
2 T. sugar
dash of nutmeg
2 T. butter

Directions:
1. Bring the contents of one beer to a boil. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk egg, sugar, and nutmeg. Add to beer.
3. Continue whisking on LOW heat for 2-3 minutes.
4. Whisk in butter.
5. Enjoy!

(I got the recipe from http://whatismyrrhanyway.blogspot.com/2009/07/butterbeer.html but I changed it a bit!!)

Dog Day Out

2009-10-05T09:04:00.004-04:00

The local 4-H puts on a "Dog Day Out" show here in town, and this year the kids' entered our beloved "Dan".

The girl was in the Costume Class, and the boy took Dan in the senior class. They both won 1st place blue ribbons.

I've been wanting to try making a dress with an overskirt for at least 2 years, and the Little Bo Peep costume was the perfect opportunity. I didn't have a pattern, though I used several different patterns and pieced them together. I used the Barbie Bo Peep doll for inspiration. It was a lot of work, but I had fun with it!!

A Wolf in a Sheep's Costume

2009-09-18T22:05:00.003-04:00

...well, maybe not a wolf. Come to think of it, I've met houseplants more aggressive than this guy! He is the dog half of a costume project for a 4-H sponsored dog show in a couple of weeks. The girl will be Little Bo Peep. I'm hoping the girl will be more excited about her costume than the dog is of his!!

Happy Constitution Day!

2009-09-17T10:27:00.002-04:00

Remember to thank our Founding Fathers today for giving us a Constitution that has given all Americans the greatest and freest country in the world!

New PJ's

2009-09-17T10:16:00.003-04:00

These are for the girl's friend. It's McCall's M4646, with a sleeve alteration. The fabric is a cozy flannel, and I was afraid long sleeves would be too warm, so, I left off the sleeves and bound with bias tape. I also cut the pants at an angle and added lace trim with a satin bow. Another pair of these to come shortly!

Cake With Marshmallow Fondant

2009-09-17T10:09:00.002-04:00

Everyone loves the way fondant looks, but the palatability does not necessarily cause one to salivate with anticipation...

I found a recipe for marshmallow fondant, and I was quite pleased with the results.

You simply mix a jar of Marshmallow Creme (found in the baking aisle) with about 3 or 4 cups of powdered sugar and roll/cut away!

You can add food coloring, but be warned, a deep color will require a LOT of food coloring!

It's not that I'm ignoring my blog...

2009-08-21T10:04:00.006-04:00

...but the current state of affairs in our country is causing me to try and read and interpret 1000-page house bills. Suddenly, I can recall the name's of random congressmen from state's I've never even visited. Perhaps the most time-consuming, however, is my new addiction to conspiracy websites such as http://www.prisonplanet.com and http://www.wnd.com/. (Highlight the link and use ctrl-C if you do not wish to navigate away from this site.)

If you haven't seen The Obama Deception, you can see it in its entirety here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAaQNACwaLw.

WARNING: Do you remember The Matrix? When Laurence Fishbourne is explaining to Keanu Reeves that once he learns about the Matrix, you can't ever go back?

I'm just sayin'...

Smocked Twirling Dress

2009-08-21T09:57:00.002-04:00

This fun dress is for one of the girls' friends. I just used a bodice-type dress and used the entire width of the fabric for both the front AND back of the skirt to allow extra for the pleats. It was very fun and easy. I would reccommend this type of pattern to any beginner smocker.

New Smocked Flower Dress

2009-06-18T11:33:00.002-04:00

I made this so the girl would have something to wear after the wedding she flower girled in last weekend. This idea came from an Australian smocking magazine. I don't remember the name of the pattern... I'll post it when I get back home. The smocking pattern is also from the same magazine, just a different dress. This is also the first time I've attempted an English hem with the fold. I love the way it turned out, but it took a lot of effort with a ruler and the iron to accomplish.

Instructions for the lined sleeves (attach sleeves after neck and shoulder, but before side seams):
1. Cut out one fabric and one lining. Add piping to outer edge of right side of fabric edge if desired.
2. Sandwich fabric, piping, and lining, rst. Stitch along outer edge. Turn and check piping... I always have to make another pass.
3. Gather raw edges of sleeve fabric and lining, then stitch sleeve (lining and fabric) to shoulder seam, being careful not to catch lining of bodice.
4. Align armhole fabric and lining RST with the sleeve INSIDE of the shoulder - lining stuff is always sooo weird!
5. Stitch armhole seam, then pull fabric through. Voila! Repeat for other arm.

Green Romper and accessories - $25

2009-06-18T10:17:00.004-04:00

This is a mint green romper with a white country scene print. It's a size 6 months. It snaps at the crotch for easy diapering and has satin ribbon ties under the arms for a more custom fit. It's fully lined and comes with a matching headband and crocheted yarn booties. It was made as a "gift set".

Big Girl Frannie

2009-05-31T17:25:00.002-04:00

This is the big girl version of the Children's Corner "frannie baby" that I use so often. I made a quick ruffled short to go with it.

Smocked Mary De

2009-05-31T17:14:00.003-04:00

Rainbow smocking!! And it turned out fantastic against the black! This is one of my favorites.

.

Another Jefferey

2009-05-04T18:01:00.002-04:00

It was so easy I decided to make another one! This is some super cool fabric I got from Debra at Palmetto Kids. It's Huckleberry Finn! This outfit is for my nephew. He celebrates his first birthday this week!

Tried out a new pattern!

2009-05-04T12:18:00.004-04:00

I finally got around to trying out a new Children's Corner pattern. It's the "Jeffery". The original pattern calls for a section of smocking across the front, but I wanted to try out the pattern before going through the trouble of actually sticking a smocked insert in there, so I just cut 2 lining pieces. It made the pattern extremely easy! Total time, cut to buttons was about 2 hours. It's fully lined and it has the cutest little tabs on the side. This is for a friends' kid. I hope he digs it!

Vintage Simplicity Pattern

2009-05-04T08:34:00.003-04:00

I found this is in the stash I inherited from my grandmother. It's a 1976 Simplicity pattern, number 7407. It's crazy easy. One piece, and one lining. I used a different shorts pattern, though. This pattern came with a super short bloomers pattern, and I don't like that much leg to show! I made piping to go all the way around the edge... tedious, but worth it! I also tried out a new technique I found in an Australian smocking magazine. Instead of just attaching the ruffle to the hem of the shorts, why not throw an edge of piping to separate the ruffle from the fabric on the shorts. A very nice touch. I'll definitely be using that technique again!

Cowboy Shirt

2009-05-03T18:07:00.002-04:00

The boy has been telling everyone for the last month or so that he is going to be a "cowboy from Arizona" when he grows up. I have no idea what inspired him to (a) be a cowboy or (b) be from Arizona. I thought cowboys were from Texas? This is a Simplicity pattern, number 3852. It doesn't require you to top stitch around the yoke and sleeves, but I always do. The collar edges, too. It makes it look less "homemade".

Vintage PJ's

2009-05-02T17:06:00.002-04:00

The girl has been asking me for new PJ's for about 6 weeks, now. They're never fun until I have something I want to try... if it doesn't work out, no one has to see it but the family! Well, I inherited this 1976 Simplicity pattern from my grandmother and I needed some placket practice before making another bishop. It turned out quite perfect. I must mention this fabric is probably 15 years old. I wanted to do something spectacular with it, but there just wasn't enough. There is some sheer pinstriping lengthwise throughout the fabric, and it's quite darling. Light and airy and perfect for summer!

Perler Bead Masterpiece!

2009-05-02T17:02:00.002-04:00

The girl has been working on this for 2 days. She told her brother she'd make it for him... and with unparalleled vigilance and persistence (she IS only 6!!), she finally finished it. It quite possibly may have been the slowest and most careful walk EVER down the hall to the iron. Way to go, P!

Sweet Cherry A-Line

2009-05-02T12:28:00.004-04:00

I'd seen an ensemble using the cherries and polka dots somewhere in a boutique a while back. Well, I completely swiped the idea and came up with my own version. The long ribbon thing is for her hair. The A-line is Simplicity's 4927 shortened to about 2 inches above the size 3 line. Usually I shorten it up about 5 inches, but this one doesn't have a ruffle, so it needed to be a little longer.

A-line outfit

2009-04-30T10:40:00.002-04:00

I've had this fabric for over a year and I knew it'd be great... for SOMETHING! I was finally inspired to do something with it when I decided the ribbon needed to play a bigger role than just an second-thought embellishment. It needed to be PART of the outfit. I couldn't be happier with the results!

It's not that I haven't been BUSY......

2009-04-27T19:49:00.003-04:00

It's been ages since my last post. We have been so busy! I finally got around to getting some things posted...

Another homeschooling family and I took the kids on a couple of field trips. We've been doing a unit study on Mesopotamia and Egypt so a visit to see the King Tut Exhibit was a MUST! Here's the girls (6 and 7) getting ready to go in and watch the 3-D Mummies movie! It was fantastic!! Those Pharaohs had it made!

We also took all of the kids to the Marietta Museum of History in GA. We got to see the Confederate locomotive "The General" that was stolen by the North, then reclaimed by the South. There was also a re-enactment going on just outside, so the kids got to mingle with Civil War soldiers and the maidens of the 1800s.

Another Frannie Baby set

2009-04-27T19:44:00.002-04:00

This set, the pink smocked set and the pink booties are all part of a commission job. This is a Frannie Baby set. It's fully lined (of course) and has the accessories to match! This kid is going to be the best-dressed in town!

Smocked top and bloomers

2009-04-27T19:42:00.003-04:00

Pink and completely girly! Hand-smocked and hand-beaded. For some reason the bloomers aren't in the picture. They're pink, too!

Pink baby booties

2009-04-27T19:38:00.003-04:00

I made these the other night while catching up with TiVo. I had to modify the original pattern, mostly because I don't remember where I put it :) I've made tons of these things. The ribbon just adds a girly flare! This pair is a commission job. They go with the next few posts. She wanted "very girly with lots of accessories."

Smocked shorts set for toddler

2009-04-27T19:35:00.002-04:00

I made this for my neice as well. It's a Hallie top with shorts. I just added the ruffle, well, because ruffles are fun! I think she'll be adorable!

Another baby Bubble

2009-04-07T10:27:00.003-04:00

My niece just celebrated her 1st birthday so I made this for her. I like the funky colors in this fabric. It's the same baby bubble pattern that I've used before (children's corner). It's super easy - as are most of their patterns.

Romper

2009-03-15T15:57:00.003-04:00

I found this pattern at JoAnns. It's really easy and super cute. It'll be fun to wear to the park - when dresses aren't necessarily appropriate. It's a See & Sew pattern #3888. The back closure called for buttons, but I didn't want the girl to need help everytime she had to go to the bathroom, so I put velcro on the closure flaps and just added a couple of mock buttons. She didn't want to take it off, so she's wearing it today - even though it's 42 and raining. I guess we're not going anywhere, anyway!

2009-03-15T15:54:00.002-04:00

Aren't these cute?! This is some seersucker I'd bought at Walmart for $2 a yard. The gingham is seersucker, too. I used the shorts pattern from McCalls' M5306 and just added a ruffle along the hem. Then I made the top from Simplicity 3749 and lined it, because, as mentioned previously, I hate facing. I can't wait until the girl can wear this with her friend. They'll be in tweeny heaven!

2009-03-15T15:48:00.002-04:00

The girl picked this fabric out eons ago. It has a whimsical bug motif along the bottom. I used New Look, pattern 6493. I lined the bodice instead of using facing... I hate facing. She loves it and can't wait to go jump on the trampoline in it. According to her, it is a "floating dress".

Ruffle Skirt

2009-03-14T19:43:00.002-04:00

This skirt is really cute, but not exactly something you can whip out in an hour. Lots of gathering and hemming - my two LEAST favorite tasks. Not hard, just tedious. Of course, it's got "6-year-old GIRL" written all over it. Sorry to say, I'll be making more soon.

Bobbie Bubble and Accessories

2009-02-26T10:40:00.003-05:00

I was commissioned to make this for a friend. It's a Children's Corner pattern (Bobbie Bubble) and I love it! I added the draw ties under the arms for "flair". And no baby is complete without accessories. Matching hairbow and cloth booties. This is some fantastic Michael Miller fabric from Debra at Palmetto Kids. It's super soft!

Baseball PJ pants

2009-02-26T10:38:00.003-05:00

I made the boys (my boy and a friend boy) matching baseball pants. T-ball is just around the corner!

Clothes for Kit

2009-02-23T18:14:00.002-05:00

Although it's not EXACTLY the same (the girl was quick to point out that Kit's isn't smocked), it's EXACTLY the same FABRIC. :D

Australian Smocking Magazine Pattern - Toffee Apple

2009-02-23T16:17:00.002-05:00

This pattern was in Australian Smocking & Embroidery, Issue 81. It's super cute and super easy. The pattern needed to be altered a little. They used facing, and I wanted it lined, and they had actual shoulder straps, and I wanted ribbon. Also, they used rick rack instead of the piping, which is REALLY cute, but I couldn't find rick rack that matched, so I was forced to make piping. I also added a machine embroidered accent to the hem of the capris.

Homemade Cakesters!

2009-02-23T14:28:00.003-05:00

I found this FANTASTIC idea at www.bakerella.blogspot.com. If you've never been to her site, you have GOT to check it out!! She made a similar "cakester" using Red Velvet cake for V-day. I used Butter Fudge Recipe cake mix and a homemade buttercream icing recipe that I found on her site, too. It's out of this world!

Ingredients and Directions:

Cookies:
1 pkg cake mix
1/2 cup butter (softened)
2 eggs

Beat eggs and butter, then add cake mix. Spoon mixture (or to ensure uniform cookies, use a small ice cream scoop). Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

Buttercream Icing
1/2 cup butter (softened)
8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1 t. vanilla
1 lb. confectioner's sugar
1-3 T. milk (if needed, as needed)
**For chocolate, add 1/2 cup dark powdered cocoa**

Beat butter and cream cheese, then add vanilla. Slowly add sugar and continue mixing until smooth. You'd add cocoa now if you were making the chocolate icing. You can also add milk if the icing is too dense for your liking.

Once the cookies have cooled, simply plop a dollop of icing in the middle and add the top cookie. Smoosh to perfection!

Matching Outfits

2009-02-19T09:20:00.004-05:00

My friend and I got together yesterday and had a blast making some outfits for her daughters. They're just simple A-Line dresses with capris. We shortened the length of the dress and added a ruffle, then added a matching ruffle to the capris. I think they'll look adorable (when it finally warms up enough to wear them!). Ruffle Tip: Cut double the width of the ruffle and seam allowance, and instead of hemming it, fold the ruffle (wrong sides together) and gather BOTH raw edges, then attach ruffle to bottom of dress (and lining). Saves an enormous amount of time! No one likes hemming!

A new outfit for the boy

2009-02-16T16:45:00.003-05:00

The girl is always gettin' new stuff, so today it was the boys' turn!

Chiffon Ballerina Skirt

2009-02-10T10:13:00.002-05:00

If you've ever tried working with chiffon, you know it is a royal pain in the rear! I'd bought some a few months ago because it was only $1.44/yd and I figured I could certainly come up with a ballerina skirt cheaper than the $15 they charge at the ballerina store.

Attempt #1 was a disaster. I had to come up with a new plan. One that didn't involve hemming! This is what I came up with...

I just doubled the length of the skirt that I wanted and folded it over. Both ends are at the top. I serged and stitched them, then turned the seam inward, and stitched another seam again (this one for the elastic casing. I fed the elastic through and french seamed the ends together.

It turned out just like I wanted! All for about $0.40!

Book Covers

2009-02-09T16:58:00.007-05:00

I wanted to try a new "recipe" that I found!

I don't know why I can't make this a hyperlink... you'll have to ctrl C then ctrl V...

http://www.fiber-images.com/Free_Things/Projects_Patterns/free_patterns_sewing.html

Danish Woven Hearts

2009-02-09T16:51:00.004-05:00

I found a video for this craft idea. It uses the same familiar concept of making Danish woven heart baskets, but instead of using paper, you use fabric. I had to soak the fabric in glue/water to stiffen it. The girl wanted them to be purses, so she stitched the side seams on the machine.

Here's the link:
http://www.curbly.com/DIY-Maven/posts/5784-Curbly-Video-Podcast-How-to-make-woven-fabric-hearts-

My very first quilting attempt

2009-02-08T20:40:00.003-05:00

I wanted to see if I could do it. That's usually how my projects come about. The boy asked for a bed for "Power Rangers" his Webkinz, so I figured I could come up with something "bed-like". I didn't use a pattern... well, I tried. Originally, this was to be a pinwheel quilt job, but those pinwheels, well, they're hard and confusing. So, this arose, instead! He loves it, and that's all that matters. I had to learn how to miter corners - need to practice.

Getting a head start on summer!

2009-02-08T14:53:00.003-05:00

This is the "Hallie" top that I posted earlier. It's smocked with chevrons across the front. I added a ruffle to the hem to close up the lining, so this top is completely lined - the smocking back is hidden! I wanted to make some shorts to match it... they have a ruffle, too.

2009-02-02T21:17:00.002-05:00

Here's a new pattern I tried. It's a Children's Corner pattern called "Mary De". I absolutely love it! It crosses in the back and closes with 2 buttons situated horizontally. I actually shortened the top - it's supposed to be a dress!Ahh, and more ruffle pants!

Busy smocking

2009-02-02T21:14:00.002-05:00

Here's that dress for my daughter's friend. The smocking turned out pretty good. I really like the lace trim. It makes it look old-fashioned, and in my opinion, smocking only works one of two ways... either old-fashioned or totally retro. There's really no in between!

Another Bishop

2009-01-14T18:57:00.004-05:00

I've been trying to get a bunch of things ready smock/hand sew so I can take them with me to Florida. This is a bishop I made for a friend's kid. It's one of the prettiest things I think I've ever made. The girl picked the fabric out herself, and I must say, for this dress, I don't think she could have picked a better print. All of the seams are in french! Ooh la la! And it has one of those fancy hidden hem things and lace trim around the collar. I'm so excited!

Trying out a new pattern... the smocked "Hallie"

2009-01-13T15:45:00.005-05:00

I REALLY like this pattern! I can't wait to get it smocked and finished. It has a fantastic sash and a ruffle hem (which I can't add until I'm done smocking it - it'll be FULLY lined!) I added piping along the top and bottom of the smocked insert. It was my first go at it. I think it makes it look more "professional". I can't decide if I should use a coordinating gingham for the pants, or stick with the polka dot. What do you think?