Sentence of the Day- Masterpiece

While Ted and I were in the office filing paperwork this afternoon, Katy called from the kitchen where she had been painting. Ted went to see what the "emergency" was. Failing to see a problem with the pumpkin painting Katy had been diligently working on, Ted complimented her on her artwork. Without preamble, Katy declared, 'This isn't a masterpiece! It's a DISASTERpiece!!!"

Ahh....the life of an artist.... we just about died of laughter!!

Chalk Drawings

This week is "Daddy Camp" for Lil' Miss. She's savoring these last few moments of summer vacay at home, with Ted and she's loving every moment! After an appointment on Tuesday, we broke out the sidewalk chalk and traced ourselves on the driveway.

Presenting.... the Jones Family... as Olympic-themed Chalk Drawings....!

Katy as a Gymnast (Notice her patriotic leo ;0)

Mommy on the high dive!

Daddy on the still rings!

Artist, hard at work!

Wordless Wednesday- Modinari (aka, "Chalk Art")

Wordless Wednesday- Sally Rabbit by KGJ (our little artist!)

Blogging for Books- little book of BOOK MAKING

little book of BOOK MAKING by Charlotte Rivers

There was once a time when I dabbled in the art- and it is most certainly an art form!- of bookmaking. It took place at my alma mater, Ringling College of Art and Design. In other words, eons ago. ;-)

I had the wonderful privilege of discovering the humble, paper book as a rare and stand-alone piece of art. Through several bookmaking classes, I learned everything from pulp to paper, to binding to create a book. A fine arts piece. The content was not always relevant- the construction and the beauty that went into it, was the goal.

It's been a long, long, long time since my days of mixing pulp into paper and stitching book signatures together. However, when I recently had the opportunity to review little book of BOOK MAKING by Charlotte Rivers, the excitement of creating something tangible and artistic in the form of paper and spine, came flooding back to me. 

little book of BOOK MAKING by Charlotte Rivers is a beautifully illustrated book that takes the reader through the basic anatomy of a book (page 8) to intricate spine stitching, such as the French Link Stitch (page 156). In between these extremes are beautiful examples of the book as art from around the world. USA, UK, South America and Asia are all represented with their contributions on the bookmaking world. Example pictures are rich in detail and excite the reader to observe the lowly printed paper book in a whole new light.

Later in the book, step-by-step instructions are included to help the reader create everything from a simple pamphlet stitch book to a flag book  to a more complicated Dragon book. Pictures in the step-by-step section are less than impressive but they do aid in the overall understanding of the construction of a book. 

Overall, this book is exciting to read and shows beautiful examples of fine arts books and the art of bookmaking. While not a staple in every creative person's library,  little book of BOOK MAKING by Charlotte Rivers definitely delivers in it's promise to, "Timeless techniques and fresh ideas for beautiful handmade books."

***Disclaimer- "I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review."***

Blogging for Books- Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder

It's been awhile- almost two years, to be exact- but I've decided to get back to reviewing books for the Blogging for Books program. They recently widened the selection of books available to review, so I felt that it might be fun to jump back in.

First up, after my long hiatus; Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder...

I love to sew and have been doing so for several years, now (in earnest). However, I'm self-taught, so that means that there are chunks of sewing knowledge that I lack. Sure, I took basic home ec back in the day. However, most of my sewing knowledge is due to the fact that I learn things as I go and as I need them. The pattern calls for a "french hem." So I google it and learn how to accomplish one. The Elsa dress that Lil' Miss is dying to dress up as for Halloween (already... And it's only June...!) needs as zipper. So, I google, struggle, google and try again. You get the picture. Anyway, suffice it to say that I have a lot to learn when it comes to the world of sewing!

Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder is a great, basic "reference guide" for sewing enthusiasts of all ages and stages.  Just as the title suggests, this book is all about the basic backbone of sewing- the stitch!

The book starts out with the "straight stitch" and then progresses to topics such as, "Darning," "Hand-Stitching," and more. Each two-four page- spread covers one stitch. First, there is a photographic example of the highlighted stitch. Then, there is a chart listing out, "Essential Facts" about the stitch ("Also known as," "Key feature," "Common uses," "Fabric types," "Needle," etc.). Next, there is a step-by-step illustration(s) of how to accomplish the specific stitch. Last, but not least, an "expert tip" concludes each section.

I would consider myself an intermediate sewer. Yet, I was able to fully benefit from reading and reviewing Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder. I loved the simple illustrations and detailed instructions. Also, the "Also known as" section was helpful for decoding a variety of different patterns by different designers. Since I have still to conquer a successful zipper, I'm anxious to follow the instructions in Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder, to finally finish that Elsa dress (October will be here before you know it!).

For more information on Super Stitches Sewing, go to: http://www.randomhouse.com/book/231578/super-stitches-sewing-by-nicole-vasbinder

For more information on the author, Nicole Vasbinder, go to: http://www.randomhouse.com/author/180930/nicole-vasbinder

To add Super Stitches Sewing by Nicole Vasbinder to your own library, go to: http://www.amazon.com/Super-Stitches-Sewing-Machine-Sewing-Hand-Stitching/dp/0770434797/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

**Disclaimer- “I received this book for free from the publisher’s Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review”.

Wordless Wednesdays- This Is What Memories Are Made Of....

Wordless Wednesday (Almost)- Portrait of Mommy

(Katy recently drew this picture of me. I totally see it- glasses, dark hair- can you? :-)

Sewing Pattern Testing- Made for Mermaids- Aurora Everyday Princess Dress

Aurora Everyday Princess Dress

Truly a dress for everyday wear!

Sitting Pretty

Aurora Everyday Princess Dress- Back

I recently had the opportunity to test a sewing pattern for the talented Megan Gorman of Made for Mermaids. Gorman has a whole line of "Everyday Princess Dresses," perfect for little girls that love to dress up as their favorite princess.... all day, every day... but without the itchy fabric. So fun! So perfect for my little princess-wanna-be!

The Aurora Everyday Princess Dress Pattern is a simple peasant style dress with peplum accent. I chose to make a pink version of the dress (opposed to blue), but really, you could do this dress in any color/fabric combination! The pattern was easy to print, put together and follow through the tutorial. Since it's a peasant-style dress, there aren't any buttons or zippers to deal with (yay!). There is an optional shoulder sash (I did not do) that can be sewn, as well.

Of course, Lil' Miss LOVES the dress!! She couldn't wait to put it on and she had a great time showing it off in our "photo shoot." "Sew" fun to sew and "Sew" fun to watch Lil' Miss enjoy wearing the Aurora Everyday Princess Dress!

Thanks for the opportunity to test for you, Made for Mermaids!

Family Portait

Um, tell me this isn't the cutest? Okay, okay, I'm a little biased on the subject, but it is pretty cute, if you ask me! Katy drew this picture, this morning.

She told me it was a picture of our family- Daddy on the left, Mommy on the right and Katy in the middle. When I asked her why she was in the middle, she said while stretching out her arms, "Because you and Daddy love me so much!!" So true, so true, Katy Grace, we really do love you lots!!

On the bottom of the picture, Katy told me she drew a see-saw. I can see it, can you? I mistakenly asked her who the little sticks with circles (thinking they were people) were and she corrected me by saying, "No, Mommy- those are the handles that hold onto, when you are on the see-saw!" Ha!

Sewing Pattern Testing- Serger Pepper- Sheer Plaid Top

Sheer Plaid Top by Serger Pepper

I recently had the opportunity to test a pattern for another talented sewist, Irene Valle, of Serger Pepper. This time, I tested a pattern for me, the Sheer Plaid Top.

The Sheer Plaid Top is a super simple pattern that contains of three pieces- that's it! No zippers, no buttons, no fancy extras! The results, though, are a light, airy top that flows nicely. The top is done in a sheer material (I found my black and white fabric on the clearance table at Hancock Fabric), and can be worn over a long turtleneck, a cami or as a swimsuit cover-up. Since the temps here in the Carolinas have been downright frigid, I wore mine over a turtleneck. Come summer, though, I believe I'll make another, slightly longer, and use it as a swimsuit cover-up.

The Sheer Plaid Top introduced me to a new type of finishing seam technique called, The French Seam. Basically, you sew a straight line, iron, fold back on itself and enclose with another straight stitch in what is known as French Seam. I had never done one of these until this pattern, but it was such an easy, clean way to finish the seam and reinforce it (since it was a sheer material).

I tested size medium, but in retrospect, I probably could have done a small. The pattern is meant to be worn over something, so it's a little looser in fit. From start to finish, it took me about two and a half hours to sew (that includes printing, putting the pattern together, cutting fabric and sewing). This top is probably not something that I normally would have tackled on my own, for myself. However, after completing it, I love the end result and I'm so glad I sewed it! This would be a great beginner piece.

So fun! Thanks for letting me test this pattern, Irene! :-)

Sewing Pattern Testing- Amelie Clothing- Victoria Dress

The Victoria Dress

I recently had another opportunity to test a sewing pattern for Amelie Clothing. This time,  a sweet little dress, the Victoria Dress.

How do you like those wild colors/pattern I put together for the dress? The colors seem to scream, "SPRING!" so I just might save this dress for her Easter dress. Since it snowed, last Easter, we just might need the 3/4 length sleeves, too...

The Victoria Dress tutorial is  probably Amelie Clothing's best tutorial, yet. It was clear, concise and easy to read/follow. The pictures were a perfect accompaniment to the written instructions. I love the contrasting belt and cuffs on this dress. Next time, I might even add a ruffle at the bottom.... I will definitely be making this dress again, soon!

Thanks, again, Susan and Amelie Clothing, for another wonderful pattern! I love it!

Sewing Pattern Testing- Amelie Clothing- The Mina Blazer

The Mina Blazer- Front

The Mina Blazer- Back

I had another opportunity to test a sewing pattern for Amelie clothing (formerly, Kikoi Patterns). This time, a sweet little blazer- just perfect for cooler, NC fall weather. This pattern was very straight-forward- easy to read and follow, just a little time-consuming- but no questions with the pattern/tutorial, itself.

I'm so happy with the end result! I admit, the Robert Kaufman Princess fabric that I chose to do the pattern (with hot pink accents) is a little wild. However, it will go swimmingly with a dress I have in the works for Lil' Miss (for no other reason than I LOVE that fabric and so does Katy!).

I love how Amelie clothing includes lots of pictures and color-coded guidelines in the tutorial. They say that a picture can say a thousand words and in the case of sewing patterns/tutorials, that is so true! The fit of the blazer is roomy and light. I love cuffing the sleeves to get a hint of the accent lining.

This pattern could easily be made reversible and has lots of opportunity to personalize. Also, next time I sew with this pattern, I'll be making the pockets functional (in the pattern, the "pockets" are just flaps).

Fun, fun- thanks for allowing me the opportunity to sew for you, Amelie clothing!

Sewing Pattern Testing- Kikoi Patterns Lily Ruffle Blouse

Kikoi Patterns Lily Ruffle Blouse- Front

Kikoi Patterns Lily Ruffle Blouse- Side

Kikoi Patterns Lily Ruffle Blouse- Back

I recently had another opportunity to work together with Kikoi Patterns to test out a new a sewing pattern (Thank you, Susan! :). This time, the Lily Ruffle Blouse  I really wanted to try this one out because the pattern involved sleeves and I still struggle with sewing sleeves onto dresses/shirts.

I decided to use some holiday fabric that I had on hand, along with some accent geometric fabric for the ruffles/button loops. I have to admit, this pattern challenged me.I made a couple of mistakes along the way and it definitely took me longer than normal to sew. However, I love the end result! Look how cute Lil' Miss looks in this shirt. The button closure detail in the back really make the shirt and of course, Lil' Miss Fancy Pants loved the ruffles in the front!

As a side note, speaking specifically about the pattern, I really felt that this pattern was sized appropriately. The length of the shirt hit her just right and there was plenty of room in the torso, without being too voluminous.

Now, how many days until Christmas...? ;-P

Sewing Pattern Testing- Kikoi Patterns Reversible A Line Dress

Reversible A Line Dress- Main Fabric (Isn't that the most darling ballerina fabric from Robert Kaufman?)

Reversible A Line Dress- Accent Fabric

Guess what?!

For the first time, I got to test a sewing pattern for the talented Kikoi patterns! I've heard of fellow sewists doing this, but never had the opportunity... That is, until today! I was pretty psyched!

What is pattern testing, you ask? Well, basically, I get access to a specific sewing pattern before it is released to the public. Then, I go through it and give feedback to the creator (in this case, Kikoi patterns).

I got to test out the Reversible A Line Dress from Kikoi Patterns. This is a super-simple pattern that even a beginner seamstress can tackle and end up with a really nice end-product. I love that it's reversible (I've got a thing for reversible things!)! The pictures are easy to follow and this pattern doesn't require too many "extra" notions. Because this pattern is so simple, it's easy to embellish and make your own. I'll definitely be making this one, again... and again and again.

Thanks, Kikoi patterns, for giving me the opportunity to test out the Reversible A Line Dress pattern! I had a lot of fun!

**Look! Katy's famous!! She's featured on the pattern's etsy page.**

"Vogue"

"...Strike a pose..."

"...Let your body move to the music (move to the music)..."

"...Come on, vogue..."

"...Let your body go with the flow (go with the flow)...

You know you can do it..."

Fall is here and with the cooler temperatures, we say good-bye to all of Lil' Miss' sundresses! Up until this point, I've shied away from sewing dresses and tops with sleeves because I've found them intimidating and above my level of sewing knowledge. Unless I want to give up sewing dresses for Katy until next Spring (and I don't), I need to figure out this whole sleeve thing...

I've done peasant dresses with some success but when I venture off and try to do sleeves on my own (without a pattern), that's when I get in trouble. So, I turned to Pinterest and found this little tutorial from the The Sewing Rabbit/Me Sew Crazy for a flower tunic.

Lil' Miss would wear a dress every day of the week, if I let her. So, instead of doing a tunic, I decided to lengthen the hem and create a dress, instead. The provided pattern is a size 3T and I sized it up a bit to fit my little 4T cutie. The provided tutorial doesn't mention a seam allowance, so I used 1/2" all around. Also, I added a long sash for the waist. Otherwise, the tutorial delivered and was clear to follow.

So, what do you think? I think Little Missy liked it from the looks of her "photo shoot." :-)

Peasant Dress

Peasant Dress

Here's another little gem that I found on Pinterest- A Peasant Dress by Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. The tutorial and pattern were as simple as can be. I usually shy away from patterns that include sleeves (I'm just not very good at them!), but I decided to give this one a whirl and it couldn't be easier! I made the 4/7 size and the only modification I made to my dress, was the fact that I added a ribbon belt with loops. Fun!

Summer Picnic Dress

Summer Picnic Dress- Tie Straps

Pretty in Pink

I came across this little gem from The Cottage Home while perusing Pinterest, recently. I had some random pink fabric hanging around and figured I'd try it out. I'm not much one for store-bought patterns (being a mostly self-taught seamstress, I find them hard to figure out), but this tutorial was simple and easy to follow. 

I did alter the pattern, slightly, by adding two extra inches to the main body on the 4T pattern (I like Lil' Miss' dresses to be a little longer in length). It did seem to take me awhile to finish, though (about an afternoon). I guess that's what happens when you sew with a three-year old interrupting you every couple of minutes! 

This was also the first time I had ever used rick-rack in this manner (I admit, I was a little worried). Next time, I might add a small ruffle, instead of rick-rack, but for this dress, I liked the trim addition.

All that time and effort paid off, though, when Lil' Miss informed me that, upon trying on the dress, that it had the perfect "twirl."

Sentence of the Day- Portrait

Portrait of Mommy by la artiste

Katy was drawing on her Magna Doodle, this afternoon, while I was sewing. She ran up to me and excitedly told me that she had drawn a picture of me. So, I stopped what I was doing to inspect her "masterpiece." Then, after I had properly "oohed" and "ahhed" over it, she told me, "You like my picture? You need to take a picture of it and post it on the blog."

Hahahaha! So, here it is, Katy Grace- your masterpiece debut on the world wide web! ;-) I love it!

Tie-Dye Color Theory

Tie-Dye Fun!

Katy had the opportunity to do some patriotic tie-dye with some friends on the third. But, because nothing can ever be that simple, I decided to have Lil' Miss tie-dye an adult large shirt so that I could later make it into a dress. Katy has started to amass quite a collection of tie-dye shirts, so I thought that it'd be fun to change things up a bit and make a dress, instead.

White t-shirt + red dye + blue dye = Patriotic. 

HOWEVER... when we got home and the shirt had set for the allotted amount of time and I unwrapped it, we ended up with more of a PURPLE tie-dye, instead. Red and blue make purple- every good artist knows that! (I guess we got a little too vigorous in our dying and let the colors blend together).

No worries, though, the shirt still turned out cute and I was able to make a fun, summery dress for Katy to wear. Plus, I made it so that when she grows up, all I need to do is remove the shoulder straps and -voila!- she has a cute tie-dye skirt! :-)