Lizards Little Luxuries

Yummy Soap

2012-01-22T17:39:00.003+08:00

I made two new soaps yesterday. Based on the usual recipe I use, as the last time I tried a new recipe it was absolutely horrible. I know this one works, and is lovely to use.

So I tried my hand at making layered soap this time. First was Vanilla Mocha Soap, using Chocolate and Vanilla fragrance oils. The top layer was left unfragranced and coloured with titanium dioxide. I used coffee grounds for exfoliating. Also put some cocoa powder in to give it a nice rich brown colour - it is deepening as it dries.

The second one was using a new fragrance oil called Coconut Citrus Sorbet. Yum! It is a very sweet citrus-y smell that makes you want to eat it! I did a yellow bottom layer and a green top layer. The only problem was that I didn't appear to mix the fragrance oil in properly to the top layer, so when I cut it, there was a few pockets of the oil. Oh well. Or maybe I just put a bit much in. Next time I would mix it through the whole batch before seperating to do the colours - but I wasn't sure how it would act, so this way was safer first. Betonite clay beads are the exfoliant for this batch.

Both are now drying and I can't wait to use them. We are trying a little experiment and have put one bar of each into the jerky cooker, to see if it dries them better in the hot humid weather we are having at the moment.

Cheers!

Say Hello to Matilda

2012-01-19T21:18:00.003+08:00

The kids suggested this name, and I think it appropriate, as when we brought her home, a large bag of sheep fleece came too ;)

She is a gorgeous Ashford Traveller about 15-20 years old.

With no knowledge of spinning, other than a great interest, youtube and one book that I was reading, I asked for tips at the shop when I purchased her. It was suggested that I start with a raw fleece, as due to the lanolin, it made the fibers more 'grabby' and easier to learn how to spin.

So I headed home with my supplies and started to play. Using a comb to tease and clean the fleece as I worked on it, I just jumped right in! I managed to get 2 bobbins about 1/2 filled yesterday, and left them to sit overnight. Then I plied them together this morning. My first skein of yarn! Yay :) It works out to about 20m lol, so not very much. But I made it and that is all that matters.

I have another 2 bobbins sitting, and they look much more uniform today - so I will try and ply them tomorrow.

Cheers!

Takes After His Dad

2012-01-09T13:33:00.002+08:00

If you think you can make it, you probably can. And you can probably do it with things you have scrounged up from around the place. Need I say more.

p.s. I should say that this started by him doing a quick drawing on my whiteboard that I forgot to take a photo of :( Then he raided my kitchen for parts.

Cheers!

Last One For The Year

2011-12-31T08:46:00.002+08:00

Quickie post to finish off 2011.

Kids Christmas outfits, consisting of:

Ottobre 2/2005 #32 Safari Shorts in size 122 & 140. Fantastically easy unisex pattern.

Ottobre 2/2005 #31 Girl's Top in size 122 - but lengthened to 146 - this top is ridiculously short! Even lengthened to the biggest size it is only just long enough to cover DD's tummy. But it is a nice shape, so I will forgive it.

Ottobre 3/2010 #35 Beat T-shirt in size 140. Love this top! Looks fantastic on my DS too.

Monsters from The Big Book of Knitted Monsters. There is Cecil (for DH), Dot (for DD) and Tony (for DS).

Some Pimpicuffs for my nieces. Really must make one for myself now.

And some Monster Chunks for my 2 SIL's :)

Also an 18m size Milo as a birthday present. I used the ladder and daisy stitch instead of a cable.

I think that is about it. What a great learning year 2011 was!

Cheers!

Project Round-up To Finish Up The Year

2011-12-03T13:18:00.001+08:00

Just about anyways. All that I am making now is pretty much Christmas presents, so I won't be able to share them for a few more weeks yet.

My knitting needles were in the KnitPicks binder when I got them, but I found it fiddly and rather bulky to store everything in there. Plus I also needed somewhere to store my collection of sock sized fixed circulars. So one day I decided to sit down and design my own, exactly how I wanted it. I used some nice sturdy denim from the op-shop, I think it was the same stuff I used for my bag, and some cute mushroom fabric for the inside. I only had 1m of the inner fabric, and I tried to use it as wisely as I could, but I also wanted to sew the inner, with as few seams as possible. So the pockets were created by folding the fabric in a sort of flat concertina style.

There is a velcro pocket up the top for my end caps and keys, and an open pocket for my needle sizer. The top folds down to protect the tips of the sock circs, and to keep the cables falling out, and there is a flap over the interchangeable tips to protect them.

In making things for myself, I finally ordered the Farbenmix LangeneB pattern from Crafty Mamas. I had some beautiful hemp denim (also from CM's) sitting around waiting for the perfect project, and this was it. Just gorgeous to sew, and a lovely pattern with a nice fit. Plus check out my invisible zipper!

In the making of things for others there has been some poncho style things for DD's teacher - quite literally a square of fabric with a neck hole in the middle, that her class use for simple dress-ups. I think I made about 11 all up. These are just the first 3, I didn't photograph the rest.

There was some baby gifts for some friends - the blanket took me ages, but looks pretty good. And the vest is a Milo, in a size 9 months so bub will fit it for next winter.

For the kids - I knitted some washcloths - mainly for practice and to whittle the stash down a little. A flower and a star.

Some more dyeing - the blue-y colour is an op-shop lot of wool, that was originally a piney blue-green and is planned for a cardigan for my DD. The purple, red-black, and purple-red-blue, are all BWM 4ply, originally Frost. They are all planned for socks.

And lastly, some soap (we are nearly finished this batch), some doll dresses for my little niece for her birthday and a shawl, that I used the wrong yarn for so it isn't very good. But it was good practice.

Cheers!

Wowsers!

2011-10-26T11:59:00.001+08:00

I just had a quick look through my photos and there are quite a few projects I haven't shared yet!

So I am going to post the boring (aka ones that don't need much describing) now, and hopefully get back to updating ones that I want to write a bit more about over the next few weeks. As I would really like to get them all blogged before another year disappears (and it is traveling pretty fast!)

Birthday present for a 7 year old boy, back in July I think. Ottobre pattern - not sure which one, Stella and Hilco (I think) fabric from Crafty Mama's.

2 Ottobre tops for me - my standard, slight v-neck pattern. Both in Stella. I don't wear the white one much, because apart from the fabric being a lot thinner than the black, I feel like a giant dirt magnet (me + white = grub!) The black one ended up being 3/4 sleeves as I ran out of fabric.

Book week costumes - yes it was ageeeeeeeeees ago. Charlie and Lola. Easy. Farbenmix Olivia dress with improvised collar and button placket for Lola, complete with her butterfly hair clips.

Charlie is Ottobre again, teemed with a pair of jeans. Simple! I just printed out Charlie in the closest font I could find, ironed some double sided web onto the back of some felt and cut out the letters and stuck them on the top. When DS decides he doesn't want to be Charlie anymore, I will just pull the letters off.

Okay, I think that is enough for today :)

Cheers!

Remembering

2011-10-10T13:11:00.000+08:00

This weekend just gone, my darling dog made the journey to Rainbow Bridge. She was very old (she would've been 16 in December) and she had finally exhausted the puppy spirit that she had always possessed. Every visit, except for the last one, I could encourage her to bark and jump around and wag her tail. Unfortunately on the last one, she just didn't have it left in her.

She lived a lovely life on the farm with my parents and various cats and dogs, and even though she never lived with me in the city (I could never have done that to her - she loved the farm life too much), she never, ever, forgot that I belonged to her.

I remember my Mum commenting on her weird behaviour on the days I was due to come home from Perth when she was only a few years old. She would run around barking and being a total peanut. Until I got home. Even when she was older and would happily obey my Dad, when I was there, his word meant very little :)

I can still remember the day that I brought her home. Dad had taken me to look at a litter of puppies, of which there were two left. His words were along the lines of "now don't go falling for the first one you see". Needless to say he went all gooey the minute she climbed on him. She climbed all over him in the car on the way home too. And I have never known a puppy since, to be able to escape from a tall washing machine box without tipping it over. That was her bed for the first few nights and we never did work out how she escaped.

So goodbye my beautiful Darcy. I will never, ever forget you and all the memories you helped to create.

PJ Pants

2011-10-06T15:00:00.000+08:00

boring, but necessary. Thankfully the flannelette designs are pretty funky! All from Spotlight - mine is last years stock, the kids are this years.

No, I didn't make them just now - these were made back in the middle of June. Except I hadn't taken a photo of mine, so this was taken today as they were having a swing on the washing line :) (except it has taken me a whole month to post this post, so it wasn't really taken today).

My pattern is Simplicity 3571 - I think I traced the seam allowances as 5/8" but only sewed these ones at 3/8" - it makes for nice roomy pants though.

The kids are Otto 4/2003 #34 in sizes 128 & 140. I didn't do the bias hem though, just made them a tad longer.

Styling of the kids pj's by them - flat pj people just in case you need help with your imagination ;)

Cheers!

Hmmm - Been Slacking Off A Little

2011-08-27T11:48:00.000+08:00

I was just having a browse through my photos, and it appears that I haven't shown much of what I have made over the last few months. So I will attempt to update my blog over the next few days.....hopefully I can do that :)

So first up is a t-shirt I made for a birthday present wayyyyyy back in May. For an 8 year old boy, who seems to love my handmade presents almost as much as my DS does :D

Ottobre 301 design B t-shirt, with long sleeves. All fabric is Stella from Crafty Mamas - and I love the two colours together.

The stencil was free from the Ottobre site. It was a bit fiddly to trace and cut out - but well worth the effort.

I traced it onto freezer paper, and used Jo Sonja paints with a fabric medium for the paint - it holds up well. I have used it for a few projects now, and they still look great! (there is a plane top somewhere, but I can't find it lol)

Next up will be some boring but necessary sewing - luckily the fabric is cute and the clothing very comfortable!

Cheers!

Because The Kids Can't Have All The Fun...

2011-08-11T16:06:00.005+08:00

Following on from this post, I did some dyeing of my own after I had helped the kids with theirs. Mine was more simple, as I was after a tone on tone sort of look, with speckles. And for some reason I wanted yellow. Actually I wanted orange, but I didn't have enough orange mixed up so settled with yellow and orange for the speckles.

The yarn is BWM Luxury 4ply - I am giving it a go to make socks for myself. The pattern is Diagonal Lace Socks by Wendy D Johnson. It is my first try at toe-up socks, and I am also doing them two-at-a-time on 2 circulars. Here is the wool wound into 2 separate balls to make it easier to do them both together.

It is slow going, but pretty straight forward. There are a few yarn overs in the wrong spot due to some "lack of attention" knitting sessions, but they will be hidden by my shoes (and I am pretty sure no one else will care except me, and I don't care enough to go back and fix them - knowing how it happened is enough knowledge for me - if I pick it up early enough I do stop and fix it).

I can't wait until they are finished and I can wear them (and cast on some more in a different pattern). I have plans for a pair of purple socks - I just need to dye the yarn :)

Cheers!

New Bag

2011-08-02T16:41:00.002+08:00

A while back, sadly about 3 months ago now - where does the time go! - I made myself a new bag. Unfortunately the one I made here, was starting to wear out at the corners from such constant use.

I liked that bag, but I wanted a few changes - such as better pockets inside, a zip closure and a key clip at DH's request (so I wasn't always digging into the bottom of my bag for my keys).

The shape of my old bag was lovely, so I used that as a base to draft up my own pattern and cut out the sides. It was way too big, so I cut the front and back in half and removed a good chunk - this left me with the problem of seams in the middle of the pieces. Scrummy ribbon to the rescue. What a better to use up some of my ribbon stash :)

Midway through I chose to add a gusset(??), not sure if that is the correct terminology, anyway, so that the pockets I was planning sat in the right place and weren't wrapped down along the bottom seam. Oh the joys of designing something yourself :)

So inside I did 3 elasticated pockets, the middle one, due to a slight miscalculation on the designers behalf, incorporated a pleat hehe. A zippered pocket that sits between the lining and the outer, and a key clip. That key clip has been invaluable. No more scrabbling for my keys when running through the rain or with hands full of shopping.

I followed the instructions loosely for the pockets and the top zipper from The Bag Making Bible. It is a great book that covers many techniques that are found in most bag patterns - lots of pictures and clear instructions.

Fabric is denim from the op-shop, I think it cost a grand total of $1 for a huge piece, and some quilting cottons - possibly Michael Miller. The ribbons are Farbenmix from Crafty Mama's.

To go with it I made a small zippered pouch - to use some scraps hanging around.

Cheers!

Yarn Dyeing With The Kids

2011-07-30T10:50:00.005+08:00

On the school holidays, the kids wanted to have a go at dyeing some yarn. I had bought some new colours of Wilton's Food Colour Paste, so we decided to test them out.
I had a voucher from Spotlight that they sent out for my birthday, so stopped in there to get some 100% wool for the kids - Moda Vera Pure Wool 8ply. Only cost me $2 after the voucher, so a good activity :)

The kids decided what colours they wanted to use, and where they wanted them to go on their skeins. They did most of the applying, I just helped and tried to guide it a little to avoid muddy patches.

DD went for more colours in smaller sections.

DS decided on fewer colours with larger sections.

Don't they just look so bright and happy?!

I have started to knit DS's into a scarf, using the Biba Trellis stitch I found in a stitch pattern book.

Cheers!

Socks For Little Witches

2011-07-17T10:27:00.001+08:00

Finished! And they are so cute.

Pattern details are here on Ravelry. It wasn't a hard pattern - took me a month doing little bits here and there. Not bad considering they are only my 2nd pair of socks.
I did do one silly mistake when it came to decreasing for the toe. I think it was mainly because the pattern was for DPN's, and I was using one circular doing magic loop. I got it sorted though, and learnt how to undo a few rows and not drop my stitches.

Cheers!

Hip Hip Hooray

2011-07-04T21:02:00.001+08:00

It's my birthday :)

Aside from it being a Monday (total monday-itis here lol), it was a lovely day. A chatty one with lots of phone calls from my lovely family.

Hubby had been working on my present for a few weeks, and even though it was finished a couple of weeks ago, I wasn't allowed it until my birthday (I did know what it was, as I had some input into it - see here on hubby's blog).

So what is it? A hand made swift and ball winder. Lets just say that the swift was relatively simple in its design and planning. But a ball winder is a whole other ball game ('scuse the pun)! DH got there though, as I knew he would :)

I did have to give it a test run to make sure it all worked great - it makes lovely center pull balls.

The kids got me some lovely BWM wool to practice my dyeing on, so I can use my swift to skein it up for dyeing and then wind into balls with the ball winder when I am done. I can't wait!

Now I am all birthday-ed out, so I am off to bed.

Cheers!

p.s. Photos were all taken by my husband :)

Yarn Dyeing - So Much Fun!

2011-06-17T13:34:00.004+08:00

Base yarns - some grey unknown from the op-shop, approximately 10g. Bendigo Woollen Mills 'Luxury' in cream, leftover from this project, about 30g (I think).

Colours - Wilton food paste colours in red, yellow, blue and green. I made up each of these colours and also orange and purple. I used vinegar as the acid for fixing (I was using lots of bits and pieces I had found when looking up information, but it was a few weeks ago, so I don't remember the specifics - please don't follow my approximations, best to go and research it properly).

To apply the colours, I lay some Gladwrap on the table, and then the wool. I just poured the colour where I wanted it and gently massaged it in.

Once I had applied it all, I wrapped it up in the Gladwrap and popped it into a pan of hot water.

I kept the water just simmering or thereabouts (I wasn't getting too technical this time around). Once all the extra colour that floating around in the Gladwrap turned clear, I took the wool out to cool. On rinsing there was no extra colour loss.

To be quite honest, I was really, really surprised at the depth and vibrancy of the colours that emerged.

I did a swatch with the original grey yarn, as I wasn't sure what ply it was, but I got a bit bored just doing plain stitches, so I did a few yarn overs and knit 2 togethers to see what it would look like. I have come to the conclusion that is about an 8ply.

As I had a little more time left after dyeing those, I decided to do some small samples using a bluey-green 100% wool, also from the op-shop with the same colours, and also put the grey in the yellow, orange & red. I am liking the results.

There will be more yarn dyeing in my future - it was fun and a great way to use yarn that I don't like the original colour of :)

Cheers!

Argh Me Hearties

2011-05-22T13:38:00.001+08:00

I am very late in posting this project, but better late than never :)

In first term DD had a pirate dress up day at school. What a great reason to make her some new shorts and a t-shirt.

Both are from Ottobre. The shorts are Celine Knickerbockers #38 from 1/2008. Easy and straight forward apart from my mistake of putting the fly shield on the wrong side and making it so that the zip doesn't go all the way up. Whoops!

The top isTangerine #14 from 1/2011. I found this to be very short and lengthened it from a size 116 to 122. I would still prefer more length on it, but it is fine for a play top.

To make it a little more pirate-y I stenciled a girly skull onto the front of the top and added a pick ribbon - so cute!

Both projects were from the stash too - got to love that!

Cheers!

My Socks!!

2011-05-14T20:01:00.000+08:00

Still on the knitting adventure I wanted to try some socks. So I did. I wasn't ready to tackle sock yarn yet and I didn't have any needles small enough, so I used some BWM Classic 8ply that I found at the op-shop for 75c. Score! There was 120g on the ball, which was enough for 2 socks.

This was a great easy pattern for a sock newbie like me.

Sock 2 is definitely neater and nicer than sock 1, but I won't discriminate and will wear both. I discovered how to get rid of the hole formed at the heel turn (I think that is what it is called?) when picking up the stitches after doing the heel flap. Sock 2 is on the left, sock 1 on the right.

The Kitchener stitch for the toe is certainly neater on sock 2 :) Sock 2 on top, sock 1 underneath.

There will definitely be more socks in my future!

Cheers!

A New Skill

2011-05-14T17:15:00.001+08:00

At the start of the year I thought about writing a list of what I wanted to try/learn craft-wise this year. But I didn't. Write a list that is. As I really only had one thing I wanted to learn, and that was to knit. I thought it was beyond me. I tried and tried again on some cheap plastic needles and acrylic yarn (also cheap). It didn't matter how many stitches I cast on, I always ended up with more by the time I had reached the end of the row. I didn't know knit from purl and would just get frustrated.

For some reason, by the end of March I really felt I had to "get it"! So I headed to Spotlight and got good wool and a circular needle (I did have a pattern ready, so I knew roughly what to buy). Casting on and knitting on the circular needle seemed to make much more sense to me - don't ask me why, because it is nothing like crochet. Other than a few hiccups that turned out to be yarn overs (from holding the yarn in the wrong spot) when I swapped from knit to purl rows I successfully made a cowl.

It was about 34C when the photos were taken, not exactly cowl wearing weather, hence the short sleeve top.

It is super soft and squooshy, but I think my needle size was a bit large, so it doesn't seem like it sits close enough to my neck to keep it warm. I may pull it back and re-knit it as I love the wool.

My M1 stitches have visible holes so I am not sure if they were done correctly.

So this has started me on the adventure of knitting.

Soon after, a lovely lady on one of the craft forums I frequent, gifted me her KnitPicks interchangeable needles that she didn't use anymore. All I can say is WOW!! They are fantastic and I am forever grateful. Every time I use them think of her :)

My next project was a beanie. Mainly for the practice. I used some lovely 100% wool from Spotlight and this pattern. I didn't make it as slouchy as the pattern said (mainly because I got a bit bored with all that ribbing).

I also made a few changes (ah the joys of being a newbie, you just do things as you wish! Actually I find it the best way to learn.) At the top, instead of stopping when the pattern called for, and then threading the tail in to pull the circle closed, I kept decreasing until I only had a few stitches left. This has made the top look different, but I now know what the effect is.

In the first few rows I did the same as the cowl - yarn overs creating an extra stitch or two. So my ribs got all out of sync and I now have a funky border - if I hadn't told you, you would probably think it was intentional ;)

It is meant for me and DS kindly modeled it for me.

A nice easy 2nd project - I am hoping to get lots of wear out of it this winter.

Cheers!

There Is Now An 8 Year Old Living In My House

2011-05-01T19:47:00.002+08:00

And he still loves his Mummy made presents best of all :)

Sewing clothes for him this year was a little more challenging, as he is tall and skinny, so I need to make sure that pants will fit. So once I had got to the waistband part of his pants I blindfolded him (he was very excited to do this lol) tried his pants on him, marked where to hem them and roughly how much I needed to gather the back of the pants with elastic. Which was a fair bit. He managed to get in and out with the blindfold on and not pin himself once. Then he went on his way without peeking.

A top and pants, both from Ottobre. The top is a size 140, and this should give him enough room for growth and to get him through to the start of the cooler weather next year as well. It is #37 from 4/2010 made in stella from Crafty Mamas.

Pants are #39 from 4/2009 in a size 134. I love the details on the pants - pin tucks in the back yoke, shaped back pocket flaps, and that fantastic shaped front of the pants. Love it! There is nothing boring about this boy sewing.

The other challenge was that this year our Easter holidays were quite late, and I misjudged how much time I would have to sew while the kids were at school. This meant I had to sew when they were at home, but without them seeing (night time is no good as I make too many mistakes). So when it was rest time, I shut the passage door and gave them strict instructions to knock before coming out. It worked wonders and I got everything finished in time.

Melly & Me - I Come In Peace alien - he is the favourite present and totally loved.

A new camera case to go with his new camera - I used the Keyka Lou pattern again, but changed the straps to make it more boyish, and added velcro to the back pocket to prevent the spare batteries falling out.

And we can't forget the cake - he picked out an octopus as a number 8, from one of the Women's Weekly cake books - they are just wonderful for kids cakes.

Cheers!

Blocking. Did I Do It Right?

2011-03-27T10:44:00.000+08:00

I am not sure. I think I did. I didn't ruin my shawl, so maybe I did :)

When I finished the shawl back in November, I didn't have a chance to block it before needing it. I also didn't know how to. After stumbling across a thread on Ravelry about how blocking can make your lace items truly stunning (and my luck is that I can't find that thread again), I decided to give it a go.

Here it is just on the floor before.

And on me before.

I soaked it for 15 minutes, rolled in a towel and laid it out flat on a blanket on the lounge room floor (one of the few benefits of having not got rid of the ugly carpet just yet - I can stick pins in it!)
There is a pin in each of the edging loops, down the middle line, and across the top sort of evenly. I tried to get it symmetrical, and left it overnight to dry.

I am not sure it made a huge amount of difference, but it is slightly bigger - both width and depth. It also feels softer and well, at least it has had a wash :)

So if you can point me to any great pages on blocking feel free to leave a comment.

Cheers!

Knipmode 101B March 2010 Top

2011-03-26T15:04:00.000+08:00

Ever since I saw this pattern in the Knipmode special I have been wanting to try it. I finally got around to it a few weeks ago.

The fabric was a cotton interlock(??) with not much stretch - which is pretty much the only downfall of this top. It stretched out a bit when I had to unpick along the top front and didn't recover. But that is ok, because I still like to wear it (I might put some elastic there at some point if I can be bothered).

Things I changed - I shortened the elastic on the sleeve edges, and the bottom hem is different to the pattern, as it wasn't until I went to do the hem that I realised that I should've traced both parts for the length. Duh!! It would've made it much easier to hem had I done this.

Overall the top is comfortable and easy to wear. It is a good length for me and rather easy to sew once you work out exactly where you need to sew each bit and don't have to unpick it lol

Cheers!

Farbenmix Tini

2011-03-13T16:24:00.001+08:00

Having had this pattern for quite a while now (oops, nearly 2.5 years!), and in my attempt to try and use my stash, I made one up for my niece for her 3rd birthday.

She picked the fabric from my collection for it, and it is just so cute! It originally came from my mum's fabric and was in two pieces. She said she made us pj's out of it, so it is pretty old.....
I had to fussy cut around some marks that were on it, but managed to get the bottom tier out of the pattern - just.

As my niece is 92.5cms tall, and the pattern runs 86/92, 98/104 etc, I went for the next size up. Well, not only will she be able to wear it all winter with leggings and a long sleeved top, but next summer and possibly next winter too! Ah well - she loved it and that is all that matters :)

Cheers!

Somebody Turned 6!

2011-02-24T12:29:00.003+08:00

So that meant there was to be lots of presents and cake (2 cakes to be exact).

In what seems to be becoming a tradition, many of DD's presents were handmade. A dress, Farbenmix Roxy, the pink was some old fabric (it was from my grandma's stash - feels like cotton and seems quite cool to wear).

A soft toy - one that I have had traced for nearly 18months and that she had asked for about that long ago (it was meant to be a Christmas present back in 2010 - but I ran out of time). It is Bubbles the Unicorn, from Melly & Me - in her book Kaleidescope.

And lastly a camera bag, pattern by Keyka Lou, from some fabric leftover from a pillow case that our neighbour made her for Christmas. I had promised to make it into a bag - and this was it. She also got a brand new camera to go in it (our kids love to take photos!)

Cake number 1 was had on her actual birthday - a chocolate sponge with a (kind of) smartie rainbow lol

Cake number 2 was for her party with her friends, and was a doll in a cake.

Cheers!

Blossom Number 2

2011-02-15T15:41:00.003+08:00

Title says it all really - I made another Blossom, from Melly & Me. The original can be seen here.

Why 2? Well, Blossom 1 had a day trip to school when DD got to take her favourite soft toy in. The teacher took quite a liking to Blossom, especially because her wings were removable, therefore she would be quite handy to demonstrate the life-cycle of a caterpillar/butterfly (The Very Hungry Caterpillar was being read often at this time).

So here we have Blossom 2, and she even got her very own cocoon this time - hopefully it will help keep her safe in a classroom full of little hands :)

Cheers!

My First Crochet Item

2011-02-12T13:17:00.001+08:00

with armholes and shaping and stuff! That is wearable :) And isn't a scarf or shawl.

I have been spying so many lovely knitted or crocheted items lately, from many of the totally talented Crafty Mamas in the forum, that I was completely inspired to have a go. Then the lovely Tracy started up a Yarn-Along, and I decided to jump in feet first, not expecting to even finish an item.

But I did, and it is gorgeous! I love it! DD on the other hand, isn't as impressed, as it is a bit big. Pfft! She is doing nothing but growing lately, and really, it was my first ever cardigan. I think she should cut me a bit of slack lol

I do know why it is slightly too big, and that is because the pattern calls for a size 6mm hook, and I only had a 7mm. I knew it was going to be slightly bigger, as I did do a gauge swatch thingy.

Anyways, the pattern is the Bebop Cardi. I found it on Ravelry - it is a free pattern and is rather easy for a beginner. It was also quick. I managed to have it finished in 4 days - about 10 hours tops. The yarn is BWM Luxury in cream - DD picked that out of the colours that were available. And I must say, it is an absolute pleasure to work with such beautiful wool!

I added some button loops as I was finishing the edges, and they are a bit hit and miss - but they seem to work ok. Two extra rows were added when I was working the bottom, so that it had a bit more length and I think that works well.

Mis-matched buttons, just because they were there and it is helping to reduce the stash :)

Also crocheted lately is this simple granny square blanket for my niece. She drags her bigger ones everywhere and trips over them. So this one is to drag around with less chance of tripping.

Cheers!

Pencil Tubs (made from a collection of bits and pieces)

2011-02-11T12:30:00.002+08:00

A note was sent home from school after a few days, asking the children to please bring in 2 tubs/cups for their pencils to live in on their desk (this is for DD's class). I could've driven to the shops and bought some, but then they would've been like the other kids ones. Can't have that now, can we?

A chat with DH on what sort of size we needed, and dig in the recycling box for some tins..... Then DH comes up with the idea using PVC pipe. He even had some in the right diameter. So I left him to it and went back inside to cook tea. Not long after he brought 2 inside, complete with an MDF base - nice and sturdy!

So as we sat watching TV after the kids were in bed, I was armed with the fabric, and DH had the hot glue gun (because I am not very good at it, and managed to have the first attempt go hard before I even stuck the fabric to it, and then burnt myself when I tried again - some things are best left to husbands), and between us we managed to get them prettified :) Not perfect, but DD certainly thought they were wonderful.

Cheers!

New Iron with a Difference

2011-02-10T20:12:00.003+08:00

A while back my iron started giving me the fits. I wasn't too surprised, as it was a hand-me-down from my sister, and had had a good few years of regular use before me.
I spent some time researching, as I wanted an iron that had good steaming abilities, and had a bit more weight as it would be a sewing tool, and very rarely used for just ironing clothes (pfft!).

A Philips was my final choice, and a lovely purple one too :)
Except it had a few annoying qualities - like timing out and shutting off when I tried to press interfacing on, or having to reach under the ironing board to turn it off at the wall switch when I was done pressing a seam.

So I gave it to DH and asked him to work his magic :) Now it has a magic switch on the side and no longer has automatic shutoff hindering my interfacing pressing abilities. DH has a few more words on this, so do pop over and read his blog.

Cheers!

Silk Skirt and Burda Top

2011-02-09T20:45:00.001+08:00

Another wedding, another outfit :) After I accidentally shrunk my red silk dress (and possibly gained some Christmas pudding), I had to make a new outfit. What a shame! lol

I wanted simple, yet dressed up, but also with the potential to dress down slightly. I think I achieved that.

The skirt is Ottobre 5/2007 #18. Fabric is Dupion Silk from Spotlight that was on sale for $8/m - thankfully, as it is normally $30/m.
I lined the skirt with cotton voile as the wedding was in the middle of summer. This made it beautiful to wear.

The top is Burda 11/2008 #113 in a poly/chiffon fabric, also on sale for $8/m. What a bear to work with!! OMG! It slipped and frayed and was a real pain in the behind. Until I mixed up some starch and painted all my seam allowances to make them stiff enough to work with. Worked like a charm.

As the chiffon was very see through, I made a camisole from the cotton voile. I had picked up a copy of the Kwiksew Lingerie book at the markets late last year, for a grand sum of about 50c.

To finish the outfit I wanted a thin black belt and a silver bag. The op-shop came to the rescue for me, with both :)
A friend gifted me the gorgeous necklace.

Cheers!

Back To School Roundup

2011-01-31T20:05:00.001+08:00

School starts back this week - just 2 more sleeps.

DD is in year 1 this year, so needed a few extra items - an art shirt/smock, and a pencil case. I looked quickly online for a pattern for an art smock, but couldn't find one that I was happy with, so I pulled out my Enid Gilchrist books and flicked through. I found one that was roughly the right size, so using DDs measurements, drafted up a rough pattern. I didn't get it quite right, as when I sewed the sleeves on the neckline was rather uneven, so the casing for the elastic is far from perfect. But it will work and that is all that matters.

It is sewn from an op-shop bed sheet - a lovely thick cotton. The sleeve bottoms and neckline are gathered with elastic to make it easy for her to get on and off herself.
I think by the thumbs up it is satisfactory :)

Listed on the year 1 booklist is a pencil case, but I didn't want to buy one as they are not very nice quality at all. I also wasn't sure if she would use it, as DS didn't when he was in year 1. So I delved in the stash to see what we could come up with. This fabric was a remnant from SL, and the zip is a very old one that was given to me. I like that it matches almost exactly to the green :)

Packing the school supplies in bags to take to school, I noticed DS's pencil case from last year had started to get holes in it. He asked very nicely if I could make him a new one. So we picked some red corduroy (from the op-shop) and a bright blue zip from the stash.

Nice and shiny and new, all ready for school.

Cheers!

Kings Park Visit

2011-01-16T20:29:00.001+08:00

We decided to take a picnic up to Kings Park today, as the kids haven't been up there since they were quite small. It was very warm, but also a lovely day out.

We started with a walk around the parkland, stopping to watch the water fountains, and play at the waterfall.

Then it was over the elevated walkway, looking out over the river and the city.

We then drove up to the playground and had a picnic lunch. Cooling off under the water sprayers before we headed home.

A lovely summer day!

Cheers!

Super Dooper Quick Christmas Present Roundup

2011-01-01T20:55:00.003+08:00

(coz I forgot to do it before now).

For the kids, they both received a mummy made outfit. Ottobre shorts for DS, with a Farbenmix Hilde t-shirt. Ottobre tee and Farbenmix Carolyn skirt/leggings combo for DD. All fabrics are from Crafty Mamas, also the ribbon embellishments.
EDIT: The Otto patterns are: shorts - 1/2004 #24 (I think they were pants, but I made them shorts, in a size 134).
DD's tee is 3/2010 #31 in a size 116 - I found it is on the small side, or intended for a very slim child.

They also asked for a set of beanbags - so I did 4 sets, so my nieces received a set each too. Except I was a little overzealous making these, I made the outer with velcro so they could be removed and washed - never, ever, again!! That was pure madness - though they will be easy to wash :)

For my younger cousins, and another young family member, I made covered journals. Super happy with these. The bigger ones are A4, and the smaller ones are A6. Embroidery designs are all from Huups.

A lanyard for a great Aunt. I was unsure of the colours in this before sewing it up - but it is just perfect for her.

And lastly, a Keyka Lou Half-Moon Bag in Meadowsweet fabrics. This was for my Aunty and she loved it! So do I :)

Cheers!

Hello 2011!

2011-01-01T17:10:00.001+08:00

Here is a picture to hopefully make you smile - it makes me smile (and look at those busy bees in the middle).

I have no lists of what I have achieved to post up - it is not that I don't want to, I do, but that would involve sitting down and looking through all my photos. Maybe I will make a tally list this year? I am good at lists lol
I have been really enjoying reading other bloggers lists of crafty stuff they have completed in 2010, some people complete so much. Which makes it feel as though I haven't done much, but I know I have so maybe I need to go through it all, even if it is just for me. I will leave my progress list up for a bit longer, maybe, to jog my memory :)

I hope you all had a merry time welcoming in the new year last night. We went to a friends house and had a great time, but I didn't stay up until 12, I went to bed and read my book instead - but did hear some nearby party people doing the countdown, and then the fireworks, so that is good enough for me :)

Cheers!

Christmas Has Passed

2010-12-29T21:26:00.002+08:00

for another year at least :)

We spent a lovely time with our families. Lots of fun was had, including....

Fishing with Poppy, and catching 4 fish (especially boast-worthy as Poppy is a fisherman and caught none!)

Lots of swimming as it was nice and hot.

Collecting the eggs for one of their great Grandmas.

Growing magic trees (a present from Santa).

Giving Poppy a haircut.

Tree climbing and piano playing.

And going out for yummy coffees!

And that was just a few of the things we got up to!

Cheers!

p.s. A huge thank you to my husband for the photo's as I didn't seem to take very many at all.....

Only 3 More Sleeps

2010-12-22T21:29:00.002+08:00

Christmas is nearly upon us.

The presents are all finished and wrapped. I can't share any photos as my family read my blog, so I will share them after they have all been received.

I must say though, the older I get, the more joy I get in the giving. I love making or even buying, a present that you can't wait to give to the recipient.

So all stay sane, and be merry and enjoy Christmas - I am looking forward to spending it with my family.

Cheers!

Eva's Shawl

2010-12-19T11:05:00.001+08:00

After seeing the gorgeous shawl that Tracy made here, I was inspired to make one too. Despite the fact that I haven't managed to crochet much beyond a granny square and a few misshapen motifs.

The pattern is from here. It is just lovely.

I used 4 balls of 50g Moda Vera Faith from Spotlight as it was only $2 a ball, and I didn't want to use expensive stuff in case I got bored or really struggled with the pattern. I can't remember the composition of the wool, and I have put the tag in a safe spot. They only had 2 balls at my local store in the cream colour, so when I realised I was going to need more, I rang around to find some more. The only store that did was on the other side of the city, about a 40min drive one way..... Luckily for me, DH was headed up that way for work and was able to pick 2 more balls up - though I wish I had asked for 3, as I didn't have quite enough to finish the 2nd row of edging. It was also a different dye lot, but it isn't too different (one benefit of being new at something - you don't mind quite so much!) But it still looks pretty, and was quite warm.
I used a 4mm hook, as this was the biggest I had in my stash - I have since acquired some larger ones to make another shawl at some point.

I wanted it to wear for the wedding last month, and I got it finished the night before - so it hasn't been blocked, though I have no idea how to do that yet either :)

I used a big pin to hold it together (please excuse the very tired face - it had been a long day).

Cheers!

Teacher Appreciation Gifts

2010-12-09T16:38:00.002+08:00

We gave the teachers gifts early this week, as DD's main teacher will be away for the last week of school.

I am really into trying to give useful and consumable gifts at the moment, mainly fueled by the feeling that my house/life is too cluttered. I really don't want to give a gift that either, won't get used or is just going to take up space and the recipient finds annoying.

So this year I made some lanyards for DS's teachers, as they carry their keys on them for easy access.

DD's teachers I made key fobs for, as they don't use lanyards.

Not content to leave it just as that, I made some biscuits and some truffles. Biscuits I have done many times, but it was my first time making truffles and I read so much that I was totally confused. Some places said you could keep them for up to a month, others said no more than 3 days. In the fridge/definitely not in the fridge - argh! So I did my usual take on things and went my own way.

I followed the advice of some, slightly boiling the cream, and coating them in chocolate (apparently this is NOT how real truffles should be, but tough, I needed them to last and be a little more foolproof).

Lets just say - they worked! And were totally scrumptious! They passed my 3 taste testers with flying colours and requests for more lol

I think the teachers appreciated the gifts, and I hope they found them useful.

All recipes are from here. I used Baileys Truffles, Dark Chocolate & Rum Truffles, Lemon Poppyseed Swirls and Cranberry & Pistachio Biscuits - though I swapped the pistachios for walnuts.

Cheers!

Wedding Outfits

2010-12-04T21:44:00.001+08:00

Last weekend, my husbands sister and her fiancé got married. They had asked for us all to be in the bridal party, so I set to work planning to make the kids outfits. The first place I looked for patterns was Ottobre (of course!).

I wanted to match DD's dress colours as close as possible to ours, but man, that was hard work! The choice of colours just didn't seem enough. But I managed to get them pretty close, and the end result was just gorgeous! Both fabrics were a taffeta - but it wasn't a heavy taffeta - quite light actually. The underskirt was just bridal tulle. Pretty much the only changes I did was to leave off the bow on the dress, and the ribbon on the underskirt (oh, and forgetting to read the instructions and mucking up how to attach the bodice lining to the skirt - woops!)

DS's outfit was a little more complex; jacket, pants, shirt, vest and tie! I used black linen/cotton for the suit - it was a dream to sew. Stretch cotton poplin for the shirt, again, a dream to sew. The vest and tie were from DD's fabrics to match. Changes to DS's outfit were to lengthen the pants from 3/4 to full length. I also lengthened the sleeves on the jacket as he has monkey arms lol. The one problem I did run into, was that I made the patterns in a size 128, then remeasured DS, I really should've gone up a size.....so I told he wasn't allowed to grow until after the wedding....thankfully he didn't - but it won't be an outfit he wears again, except for maybe the pants because I left them a bit long and they can always be converted to shorts later.

They were both so excited to be part of such a special day and were so well behaved. DD loved getting ready with us, and being able to wear a little bit of makeup for the day. And doesn't she look gorgeous with her hair curled! And DS spent the day doing 'boy' things and getting ready with the big boys.

Patterns used were:
Dress - #19 3/2008
Underskirt - #20 3/2008
Jacket - #27 3/2006
Pants - #29 2/2004
Shirt - #21 3/2009
Vest - #20 3/2009
Tie - #22 3/2009

Don't we look all spiffy dressed up! :)

Cheers!

A New Art Folder

2010-11-21T09:26:00.000+08:00

A party for an 8-year old a few weeks back, meant I put on my thinking cap for a useful present I could make. It was for a classmate of my DS. I do find boys a bit harder to make for, but most kids tend to like to draw or write, so I settled on an art folder.

The fabric was approved by DS :)

I decided to make it a bit different to the last one I made, and have the pencils in a pencil case type part.

This works rather well, but the velcro can be a little sticky - may need to rethink the application if I make it again :)

Cheers!

Blogtoberfest Is At An End and Some Lovely Views

2010-10-31T20:47:00.003+08:00

Just some of the fantastic views that graced our weekend. It was a weekend spent with family, and a lovely time was had.

I hope everyone enjoyed Blogtoberfest - I know I did. It was a challenge to post every day, but I am glad I did it lol

Cheers!

Cosy Cocoon

2010-10-30T07:30:00.000+08:00

Found at my sister's house, and it now lives on the nature table at pre-primary. Very fascinating to look at.

Cheers!

Sometimes...

2010-10-29T21:30:00.001+08:00

Yes it does.

My DS stuck all these magnets onto the bottom of his ceiling fan. They were very hard to photograph, as my photos show lol

Cheers!

I've Been Holding Out On You

2010-10-28T20:29:00.001+08:00

About two months ago, I found out my Aunty was coming over from the America. And she so kindly offered me some of her suitcase space if I wanted to buy any fabric from over there.

Well, I wasn't going to be asked twice! lol Yes please! And the dollar conversion was pretty good (not quite as good as it is right now, but good enough). So I ordered. When the fabric arrived at her house, she checked it out and then emailed me to say that it came with a discount coupon - did I want to order some more?

Teehee - yep! But this time I made sure it was just for me :) So I got a linen/rayon blend and some patterns - a Jalie one and a Hot Patterns.

The rest of the fabrics are quilting cottons, and they are just so lovely! I can't wait to use them.

So a huge thank you to my Aunty - enabler that she is ;)

Cheers!

Little Tired Today...

2010-10-27T19:57:00.000+08:00

I spent the day with DD at pre-primary today. I did some work with DD, and also helped with the other 23 kids in the class. It was great fun, and I love helping them.

After commenting to my sister that I was feeling rather tired after that, she rightly stated "Now you know why the kids are tired each day after school". lol

So very true!

And just because I don't like leaving a post picture-less, here is a strawberry flower - hopefully it will yield a very yummy strawberry.

Cheers!

It's Started!

2010-10-26T19:32:00.000+08:00

Daylily flowering time that is. I love this time of year when my daylillies flower - they are always so big and happy. I smile when I see them.

Cheers!

New Growth

2010-10-25T20:52:00.000+08:00

And hopefully they will grow into giant sunflowers!

Cheers!

My "No Need To Worry" Contract

2010-10-24T20:51:00.001+08:00

DS wrote this contract out for me this past week. So now, I have no need to worry anymore :)

Cheers!

Giveaway Winners

2010-10-23T11:30:00.000+08:00

My helpers have helped, and winners have been drawn. Because there are two helpers, it sort of dictates that there are two winners :)

I really wish I could have given a prize to everyone who entered, all the lovely comments made me smile!

So congratulations to both ottomania - you have won the clutch and a surprise, and mummy_chelle - you have won a surprise, I will contact you both.

Cheers!

Oops - Nearly Forgot

2010-10-22T21:25:00.000+08:00

to post today :) So here I am.

Look how busy this little guy is! Yet another play around with my camera ;)

Just a reminder - giveaway shuts at midnight my time (so about another 2.5 hours left to enter).

Cheers!

Well Now

2010-10-21T16:15:00.001+08:00

look what I have learnt....

With a very big thanks to my very patient husband, I have learnt that my camera CAN take those fabulous photos.
A couple of weeks ago I read Nic's post on her new toy. And I fell in love with the purple flower picture (not the actual plant, it grows like a weed here lol) but the close-up-ness of the photo. The talk of amazing macro mode, and then the lady bug photo made me want to buy a new camera!
I explained to DH what I wanted to do (take more macro photos of my flowers), so we dug out the DSLR and I had a play around with that. You have seen some of the results from that camera over the last few posts. They are not bad photos, but still not the 'right-in-there-can't-get-any-closer' type that I was looking for. So I was pestering for a new camera, as surely that is all I needed to take such great photos.

Well, ahem, DH showed what settings to use on my little Canon A620 this morning before leaving for work, and boy, did I have fun! I need more flowers now :) But best of all, I don't need a new camera - the one I have works brilliantly - it really is all about the operator!

Cheers!

p.s. I still have some even closer, but I will share them at a later date.

Running Out Of Words

2010-10-20T20:03:00.002+08:00

with this blogging everyday :) So please enjoy the hibiscus.

Cheers!

Lemon Blossom

2010-10-19T20:52:00.000+08:00

What started as a scraggy little tree that I didn't expect to live, is now in it's 4th or 5th year and has a healthy crop of lemons each year.

And aren't the blossom pretty? They have a lovely scent too.

Cheers!

Hair Cuts & The Workings of a 7 Year Old Mind

2010-10-18T19:44:00.001+08:00

It was haircut day the other week, ready for back to school. Now DS prefers his hair to be cut in a #2 length. So it is easiest if I do it - makes sense as it is cheaper too!

During term, his hair is left to grow, so when it is time for a cut, there is a fair bit there.

Mid-cut he looked down at the piles of hair and exclaimed.....

"It looks like a rat died and all its fur fell off!"

Yep, my 7 year old is gross.

Cheers!

Rose Petal Tea

2010-10-17T20:44:00.000+08:00

When the marquee breaks and falls down, you make a tent. And serve your guests rose petal tea :)

All while looking adorably cute!

Cheers!

Ta-Da

2010-10-16T20:41:00.001+08:00

Isn't this just so gorgeous? It is a set I made for a birthday girl who just turned one :)

Complete with ruffles on the bottom!

Patterns are Ottobre 3/2008 #2 & #3.

Cheers!

Sneaky Peek part 2

2010-10-15T20:54:00.001+08:00

Another bit to go with yesterdays post.

I can reveal the entire photo tomorrow night :)

Cheers!

Sneaky Peek

2010-10-14T19:32:00.000+08:00

at a birthday gift for a small person celebrating soon.

I will share the rest after it has been received.

Cheers!

A Bit Crumpled

2010-10-13T16:37:00.000+08:00

This poppy is looking a bit how I feel - slightly crumpled. Though I am not looking quite so bright and cheerful as this lovely flower.

A bit tired, so much to do, and just wanting to rebel and not do any of it lol Oh well, it will get done, bit by bit :)

Cheers!

Growing...

2010-10-12T20:28:00.001+08:00

A baby beetroot in the aquaponics - read more over at DH's blog.

Cheers!

Day 11 (Wordless)

2010-10-11T20:19:00.000+08:00

Cheers!

From One to The Other

2010-10-10T20:04:00.000+08:00

From shorts and frozen jelly yesterday, to jumpers and ugg boots today!!

Lovely grey skies :)

Look a puddle - even if it is a small one lol

It was lovely to wake during the night and hear rain falling - we haven't had enough of that this year.

Cheers!

Frozen Jelly

2010-10-09T20:58:00.000+08:00

Was our treat for today. It has been warming up in Perth - 28C today. Summer is approaching - that is for sure!

Cheers!

A Ride Down The Park

2010-10-08T20:49:00.000+08:00

End of the week, nearly the end of the school holidays. A bike ride down the park was in order to break the same old, same old.

The light was perfect for photos - I just wish I had taken the camera. All I had was my phone - and I couldn't hold it quite still enough for the good shots. I will have to go for another bike ride I think :)

Cheers!

Day 7 - Giveaway Day (NOW CLOSED)

2010-10-07T15:49:00.003+08:00

I have finally reached 100 posts :) It has only taken me 23 months! lol

So now I am having my very first giveaway. It is a wristlet/small bag/clutch/whatever you really want to call it :) Ever since I made one to match my dress back in March, I have been wanting to make another. And here it is.

It is made from a gorgeous cotton canvas-y type fabric with white flowers and ladybugs on the outer, and lined in calico. It has a triangle ring with a swivel clip attaching the strap - this is so you can take the wrist strap off if you don't want to use it. Big enough to fit some cash/cards, your phone (i-phone size) and your keys.

So how to enter. Easy - leave a comment and a way for me to contact you if you win. If you care to tell me what your favourite post has been over the last 23 months, that will get you a second entry ;)
If you are a follower, then I will pop in an extra little thing if you win. Happy to post worldwide.
The giveaway will close on the 22nd of October midnight Perth time. I will draw the winner either by random.org or with the help of my kids on Sunday :)

So what are you waiting for - go comment!

Cheers!

Day 6

2010-10-06T14:12:00.001+08:00

Yes, another flower photo. This is my neighbours lovely Strelitzia (Bird Of Paradise). I really love these flowers, that bright orange is just gorgeous! And the plant is rather pretty too.

Cheers!

p.s. Seems that my next post will be my 100th! I do have a giveaway planned, so stay tuned tomorrow :)

Day 5

2010-10-05T20:35:00.001+08:00

Chincherinchee in flower for the first time in my garden.

Cheers!

Blogtoberfest Day 4

2010-10-04T20:21:00.000+08:00

I can't think of a better heading but I do have a gorgeous photo to share.

This is one of my DS's fantastic drawings :) Isn't it just great!!

The kids were very gorgeous today - DD washed a sink full of dishes for me and DS hung out a full load of towels - and they offered!!

Cheers!

Sunday Funday

2010-10-03T20:19:00.000+08:00

Tired kids are in bed, and their tired parents are having quiet time. The kids had a lovely day, but it unfortunately ended in major tears from DD, who I think had just a little too much fun.

Our shopping centre was open today, celebrating the refurbishment of the centre. There was a bouncy castle, face painting, balloon animals and more. So DD lined up for face painting.

Then they came back home for lunch. DS wanted to go back to the shops after lunch because David Wirrpanda from the Eagles was going to be there. So he put on his Eagles tracksuit, and went back to see Wirra! He got an autograph on the back of his jacket, a signed poster and a photo!

I am so proud of DS. Going up there isn't something he would normally do, as he can be quite a shy boy sometimes. And doesn't he look pleased!

I must say a HUGE thankyou to my DH for the kids having fun today, as he took them to the shops both times, allowing me to stay home and cut out patterns that I need to get sewing asap!
Also, the photos were taken by my husband - you can see more of his great work over here at BjBlaster. Thanks sweet.

Cheers!

Trains and Marbles

2010-10-02T20:23:00.000+08:00

These are what made up a birthday present for one of DS's friends last weekend.

T-shirt is Ottobre 3/2008 #29 - the spider t-shirt. This is a great pattern. The embroidery is one that is stock on my machine, as the birthday boy loves trains.

He also loves marbles - and happened to have a bag of them handy, so I made a storage bag to keep them in. I cut out circles and sewed scraps of fabric behind them to make them look like marbles.

He loved them!

Cheers!

Blogtoberfest - I Am Joining In

2010-10-01T21:33:00.000+08:00

Yes, I am late to the party. But it is still the 1st over here, and I am well known for my procrastination :)

Now I am committing myself to posting every day for October - hmmm, I think you may be seeing some flower photos from my garden.

My 100th post is coming up very soon though, so I will definitely be having a giveaway at some point in the month :)
A big thank you to {tinniegirl} for organising and Curlypops for looking after the list of giveaways that are happening.

So here is to Blogtoberfest! If you want to join up - pop over here and put your name on the list.

Cheers!

Thanks For The Push

2010-09-30T09:21:00.001+08:00

Vic posted yesterday that she made some play dough for her DD for the first time. I always remember my Grandma making play dough for myself and my siblings to play with. But shamefully I had never, ever made it for my kids :( I commented on Vic's blog and woke up this morning to an email that simply said "Make it! Go on! ;)"

Well I have a doctors appointment this morning and my two darlings are going to my sisters so I can go in peace. My DS who is 7, can be slightly hard to entertain, as my sister has 2 girls and he just gets a bit left out I think, with no boys to play with. I suggested play dough to my sister, and she was more than happy - so the challenge was on - make some play dough for the first time! hehe

I wasn't fussed on having to cook it though - I like simple. I quickly googled realised I use boiling water instead of cooking. And did you know that there is a recipe for play dough on the back of the cream of tartar tub!

So I used that recipe, substituted boiling water for cold and just stirred it altogether in a bowl. Tipped it out, kneaded it on the floured bench top until it was smooth and then added my colours. Easy peasy. I think it took me about 15 minutes tops!

So the recipe I used is:

2 cups plain flour
1 cup of salt
2 tablespoons cooking oil
4 tablespoons of cream of tartar *
2 cups of boiling water

*I only used 2 tablespoons as I didn't have enough.

Put all ingredients into a big bowl and mix until they are all nice and stuck together. Tip out onto a floured board or bench and knead until it is smooth - be careful though, as it will be hot! Seperate into as many lots as you want different colours. I did 4 - purple, orange, lime and aqua.

I put mine into ziplock bags for storage after they hand cooled down.

Seems like they are a hit already!

So thank you Vic - I tried something new today :)

Cheers!

I Was Tagged :)

2010-09-28T20:35:00.000+08:00

With a Beautiful Blogger Award by Heather from Sewing on Pins. Thanks Heather.

Now apparently I need to share 10 things about myself that you, as readers, don't know. Hmmm - that is going to be tough.....so I will give it my best shot - so no laughing ok ;)

1. I studied horticulture. I wanted to be a vet but didn't get the marks - which is probably a good thing, you can rescue unwanted plants by the trailer-full, not quite the same with un-wanted animals lol

2. I grew up on a dairy farm. I loved milking the cows, doing cattle work - pretty much all aspects of farming. And there is nothing better than icy cold fresh milk straight from the vat!

3. I only started sewing 2.5 years ago - there is still so much I don't know, but I am looking forward to learning.

4. When I started sewing, I wasn't afraid of anything - I just jumped in and tried it, I still do mostly.

5. My husband and I got engaged after just 6 weeks together. We were 19 :)

6. I love swimming at the beach, but don't do it often enough anymore.

7. I had two horses growing up - one called Johnny who I got when I was 7 and Tiffany who I got as a foal when I was about 13. I haven't ridden in about 8 years though.

8. I really don't like watching reality TV shows. I think I half watched the very first Big Brother, but that was it. Can't stand Masterchef, X-Factor or Idol (or any of the rest). But I do love watching Australian TV series - we have some very talented stars here :)

9. My longest running hobby has been competitions - love entering and waiting for something in the mail, though I don't do as much now.

10. One of my nick-names growing up was motormouth - guess I talked a lot :)

So there you go - 10 things. Good thing I didn't say they were going to be exciting lol

Now I need to nominate 5 people for this award. It is just a fun thing to do - so don't feel pressured or anything.

So:

Tas - from Little Boozle, because she has such a fabulous way with words, and sews some awesome clothes for herself and her kids.

Sara - from Willow & Moo - her sewing is just amazing!!

Joy - from 21 Wale. I love seeing all the clothes she makes for herself.

Helen - from Stitcharooney. Not only does she create gorgeous clothing for her kids, but she shares scrummy cooking.

Vic - from Punky & Me. Not only does she find some fantastic stuff at her op-shops, but she is pretty awesome with her drawings!

Cheers!

Well finally!

2010-09-16T17:37:00.000+08:00

I have some pictures to show of my new jeans :) My first pair of jeans (in adult size) that I have made. Woohoo! Even though they are not quite perfect, it does not detract from that fact that I made a pair of jeans lol And they weren't hard to do.

I did procrastinate for a fair while, a month or two at least, because I was scared. And it was probably a good thing I did, as the denim I had bought wasn't enough. Also it had lycra in it and if I had used it, well, I wouldn't be so happy right now. Although I used the size according to my hip measurement, they were slightly too big, so a smidge of adjustment over the hip/waist area got them fitting snugger.

But oh dear, one slight problem, they are most definitely considered high waisted on me :( Sitting pretty much at the smallest part of my waist, they are a good 4cm + too high for my liking. This is ok and live-able with in looser tops, but certainly not with anything that fits snugly - well not after wearing for a few hours, as I develop a little pooch in front lol But I know what I want to change next time around, so it isn't a waste of time.

The colour of the jeans screamed home made when I first finished them, very solid and flat, with no high/low lights. So I took to the jeans with some steel wool - what fun that was! The result was much preferable.

To go with my jeans, I decided to make a new top as most of my long sleeved ones are looking pretty tatty. Gorgeous charcoal marle stella from Crafty Mama's, with some LoveChirp embroidery from Huups. (I know it isn't centered perfectly, I still need practice).

The joy of this top is that I got to use all 4 of my machines on the one project, sewing machine, overlocker, cover stitch and embroidery - I knew I needed all of them for a reason!

Top is Ottobre 2/2006 #1 with a slightly rounded v-neck. Jeans are 5/2007 #10, the bootleg variation.

Cheers!

My First Knipmode Pattern

2010-08-20T14:24:00.005+08:00

And I love it!

As soon as I saw the sleeve-less top (#4) in the July 2010 issue of Knipmode, I knew I wanted to make it. And as far as patterns go, it appeared relatively simple. Perfect for a first try sewing something for me from a foreign language magazine (it is in Dutch).

So after working out what colour lines I was looking for, and on what sheet (thank you babelfish), I traced out my size, added a good 5cm extra length to the hem and set about cutting the fabric.
I bought this fabric because I love purple, and I have another style of top a want to try that needs a light weight, slinky-ish knit. It was a bit slippery to work with, but lots of pins help.
I wasn't going to do the pleats at the neck, I was just going to gather it, but the pleating was so simple I went ahead. And I am glad, because it looks nice.

I am not sure what they intended you to do with the neckline, because you cut three pieces, 2 for the front neckline (one left, one right) and one piece for the back. I had already sewn a shoulder seam by this point (oops!), so I joined the neckline pieces together into one strip. This worked out ok, but the pieces were all too long (I don't know what the seam allowance included was, so it may have been my fault). Easily rectified and on I went.

The armholes were easy, but again, the binding seemed too long (next time I will shorten it and pull it a bit when attaching, as I feel it doesn't sit close enough to my body).

I do love the gathering in the side seams - helps hide the lumps and bumps :D

I could have not added the extra length, it seems these patterns are about spot on length-wise for me! Woot!

Cheers!

Dortje (finally)

2010-08-20T14:13:00.003+08:00

These pants have been made for ages! At least a month if I remember correctly. But every time DD wears them, I totally forget to take a photo. Well, here they are, and DD declined to model them for me.

I used both mid wale and baby cord and stitched the embroidery directly onto the pants. That was a worrying time, as I had already put the pockets onto the front, and have done very little stitching onto the actually garment before. The design took about 40 minutes to stitch out, and I sat there with my fingers crossed that it would work properly and I wouldn't ruin the front of the pants, as I was using remnants of both fabrics.

Thankfully it did, and it looks great!

I did have one issue with the pants, and that was after stitching the legs together, and overlocking, my elastic for the gathering in the side seams wasn't so gathered. So I stitched some clear elastic in to make it more obvious. It worked, but seems to pull the legs in on themselves a bit. Never mind, she will grow and then I will need to make more soon :)

Cheers!

A Many Pocketed Apron

2010-08-20T14:07:00.003+08:00

Recently my DD's teacher asked if I could make her an apron. One with many pockets to hold little bits and pieces for stories and fun things for pre-primary class :)

All the pockets are different fabrics, with different textures and colours. I used a basic apron pattern, and cut the pockets just big enough to fit a hand into.

I do love the result, bright, colourful and interesting :)

Cheers!

Kids Dress Up Day

2010-08-20T13:50:00.006+08:00

Last week, both of the kids had dress up day.

For DS, it was NAIDOC week, so he was to wear NAIDOC colours to school. He wanted a bit more though, and asked for an Aboriginal flag on his t-shirt. Since he was using his red sports tee, I didn't want to paint onto it, as it is sports week in the not too distant future.
A quick look at my felt collection produced yellow, red and black. So I cut out a small flag and stitched it onto his t-shirt for the day. Quick and easy, and the flag is there for next year should he ask again.

DD was dressing up as a nursery rhyme character, and wanted to be little miss muffet. Well, little miss muffet had a slight wardrobe deficit, so borrowed her top and skirt from little red riding hood. But she did have a new cap, apron and spider :)
The cap I made with a circle of fabric, roll hemmed the edge and sewed elastic in about 6cms from the edge (like a shower cap).

And the apron was just a rectangle, gathered a little at the top, a sash tie with velcro at the back, and a ruffle.

The spider, brown felt and wool covered dowel - quite simple really.

Cheers!

Cover Stitch Itch

2010-07-31T21:39:00.006+08:00

After 18 months of saving, researching, and reading about many of the different cover stitch machines available, I was really itching to get one. I looked out for secondhand machines, but they seemed to be very rare. And the only one I did come across, was so close in price to a new machine, I didn't bother to check it out.

I decided that a Janome Cover Pro was basically the one machine that fit my budget, and my needs. But there were no specials on. So I rang around this morning to see what the best price was, and if there was any saving if I paid in cash. Turns out that it can certainly help :) But it was only available for this morning. Well, to save $100, I guess we were going shopping!

After a quick demo (I pretty much knew what I was getting myself in for), I walked out with this:

Happy happy joy! The Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX! A new learning curve for me :)

Cheers!

Skinny Jeans....

2010-07-22T10:32:00.004+08:00

....okay? Or no way!??

I confess - I have never in my life bought skinny jeans. Until now. And now I am feeling a little unsure - do they look ok? Am I trying to dress too young? Is it totally wrong for my body shape? Please chime in with your opinions.

I can't really take them back though, as they are hanging on the line drying :)
I am not sure I would wear them with anything other than the boots, as they just aren't long enough in the leg for me. Oh, and the tunic/top I am wearing them with - came with a tag saying it was actually a dress!! Oh my!

So what with all the reading I have been doing on what to wear for your body shape, and how to work out what body shape you are, I think I have finally worked out what shape I am. An hourglass with a tendency towards a pear at my hips/thighs. I think. lol
This is helping me be a little more decisive in choosing patterns that I want to try out and also open to the idea of ones I would never have picked before.
If you remember back to here, I think it is helping me feel less despondent about my wardrobe, as I have a slightly better idea of what will work, and what not to waste my time on. So I think the jeans have helped alleviate the daggy (gosh I do hope so!), and the new Burda pants certainly make walking to school more enjoyable (those pants make me happy - they just fit so comfortably!) Now just to swap out the old brown jumper lol But I must say, it doesn't look as terrible since I have nicer fitting pants to wear with it.

Once I finally settle on some patterns I really want to try, I might post up a picture, see if they will work together, like a mini wardrobe or something.

Cheers!

Another Birthday, Another Year Older

2010-07-04T17:03:00.005+08:00

But I made my first pair of fitted pants for myself! Woot! So I may have started the climb into my 30's, but I have some pretty spiffy pants to do it in :) It is funny how numbers affect us, this time last year I wasn't having such a fun time - must've been the big zero on the end lol Hate to think what I will be like hit 40! Add a 1 and it doesn't bother me!

So pants first, they are Burda Magazine, 4/2008 #113. In the magazine they are 3/4 length cargo pants with a cuff. I omitted the cuff, lengthened the leg, lowered the side pockets by 10cms and did my very first welt pockets with a flap (well I think they are welt pockets).

I also used the Sandra Betzina video to put the zipper in, and it worked a treat! So easy. But I forgot to take note of which way it went in, so now I have a fly that I need to open with my left hand instead of the usual right hand ones, like on RTW.

The pants look a little dressy done in the black drill, and would look great without the cargo pockets, but these pants are for walking the kids to school, so I wanted the pockets for my phone and keys. I want more though, as they are comfy and I think they look nice with the wide leg.

They are completely wrinkled, as we had just got home from the movies after seeing Toy Story 3 - totally fantastic movie :) The kids sat so still and were glued to the big screen.

To finish the day off, we had pizza and Mars Bar cheesecake for tea with my family and my sister and her family. Lovely!

Cheers!

Bits and Bobs

2010-06-30T13:11:00.006+08:00

I figured it was time to round up some of the stuff I have been doing, and share them :)

The kids needed some new pj's and I am still trying to use my stash (it doesn't seem to be disappearing though....) Pattern is Ottobre #20 4/2005. Which is shown in the mag as a boys pattern. I did a size 116 for DD & 128 for DS. They fit well and they love them. I did leave off the ribbing from the ankles - just lengthened the legs a bit. And I was lazy and didn't create the V in the neckline - just treated it as if it was a normal round neckline. This worked well and meant it wasn't too high and uncomfortable for them to sleep in.

A friend of my sister had been looking for nice brimmed hats for her daughter, but couldn't find any, so asked if I could make her some. I used the Mamu Design Elin hat pattern which has quite a few variations for both boys and girls :) I made the small brim reversible hat, once in red with co-ordinating spots.

And once in a gorgeous turquoise-y colour with a matching print (of which I forgot to take a picture of the finished hat, and only have a picture of the swatches - numbers 1 & 5 - top left and top right).

Some nappy wallets and clutches have also been made. My sister wanted one, and a friend of hers (lucky me that she has lots of friends :)!) wanted 2 clutches and a wallet!

I also made one for a friend of ours who has just had a baby and made a spare clutch to either sell or have on hand should anyone else have a baby soon :)

Cheers!

Crafty Mamas Giveaway

2010-06-12T09:14:00.003+08:00

My favourite place for gorgeous fabrics and patterns, is having a giveaway! Some fabulous Farbenmix fabric is up for grabs, so do pop over and enter.

Cheers!

Clothing Dilemma (aka procrastination in poor disguise)

2010-06-07T14:37:00.004+08:00

I have been lurking over at Pattern Review lately - it started out as innocent looking at the patterns, and getting ideas on things to sew for me. Then I stumbled upon the 2010 wardrobe contest, where participants are sewing a number of items, that can all go together. So all the tops go with all the bottoms etc. WOW! This is a little out of my comfort zone (ok....wayyyyyyyy out of it to be honest, 11/12 items that go together to be completed in just 3 months!), so lets just say I won't be joining in. But I am reading the thread and ogling all the story boards that members are posting - they all look fabulous.

I have also seen around the web, talk of SWAP sewing - (Sewing With A Plan). And that looks more my style - but, I don't know. Maybe I have sewing commitment phobia or it could just be procrastination :)
Looking through my clothes (most of which are RTW at this point in time), they are getting old, tired and just aren't my favourite any more. In fact most of them are from straight after I lost weight, and needed stuff that fitted. They are all pretty basic styles, jeans and knit tops mainly.

Sure I will continue to wear them, probably until they become no longer acceptable to go out in public, but aside from my favourite jeans, I don't really love them. I have never been one to care too much about what I was wearing - as long as it suited the situation/outing and were comfy, then I was happy.

But lately I have been feeling a wee bit too daggy, even for me. Mainly on the walk to school for some reason. It is rather cool in the mornings here, so I have been layering my tops, and the top layer is a particularly daggy brown knitted jumper. Oh it is warm, but man, paired with my mens, at least one size too big, cargos, and topped by a hat (yes, I wear a hat even when it isn't sunny - it keeps my head warm!), I am very glad I never stop long in front of a mirror - except to see if the collar of my t-shirt, under said jumper, is straight.

Maybe it is part of getting older, but I feel like I am missing something with the clothes I wear. I want to look and feel slightly better put together. I still want to be casually dressed, but a nice casual instead of a daggy casual. And even though I have never liked wearing skirts - I love the skirts with boots style I see. Any ideas on feeling comfortable wearing skirts? Not long ankle length ones though - they totally don't suit me - I need them to be about knee length.

I have a few ideas I am hoping to sew, but I tend to get overwhelmed just thinking about the whole prospect.
So far, I have patterns picked for my walk the kids to school wardrobe - a pair of cargo's from Burda magazine, and a Beala as replacement for my daggy brown jumper. I am also planning on making the 5 pocket jeans from Ottobre Woman - wish me luck - I have never sewn jeans before :)
Where to go from there though, I really have no idea! Anyone have any good book suggestions on dressing for your body type? Or site links? Or any helpful hints? I am going to have to do this again when summer rolls around, as that half of my wardrobe is possibly even more pitiful :(
Oh, and the kids won't stop growing, so they will need more clothes all the time.....

Cheers!

Oh Blimey!

2010-06-02T09:32:00.005+08:00

I had forgotten all about posting my May challenge!

Zips. May was all about zips. I did get one put in, and was happy with the end result. Though I did try to be clever and had to do some un-picking, as my clever-ness was off-set with extremely wonky top stitching. Lesson learnt :)

The pattern is Otto #28 3/2003, in the jacket version. Fabric was from Crafty Mama's. And it was a birthday present for a lovely 7 year old this past weekend. I am very happy that our friends kids love my handmade clothes as much as our kids do. It is a smidge big on the birthday boy, but he will grow and it should still fit him for the start of next winter.

I didn't realise the pictures were so bad - oops! Should've checked them before giving the jacket away.

Cheers!

Farbenmix Fano

2010-05-14T19:28:00.003+08:00

Yesterday I received a scrummy parcel from Crafty Mama's. Best of all, it contained 3 patterns just for me! One of those patterns was the lovely Farbenmix Fano. I had it traced and completely sewn and was wearing it out the door within 24 hours! New record for me.

As the pattern is in german, I just picked the pieces I wanted for the long sleeve version, minus the pocket (no point adding extra bulk to the old baby storage area lol) After that I abandoned the instructions and it went together just like a t-shirt.

Excuse the pj pants ;)

I am super impressed by this pattern, I did no modifications anywhere - other than adding the seam allowances, and it fits beautifully! The sleeves are slightly long, perfect to keep your fingers warm, and the hem is adequately long, but next I will add a little extra (I like my tops just a touch longer). The fabric is very similar to Stella, but isn't - it was hiding in my stash.

It is comfortable, red (one of my favourite colours) and I want to make more. Shame my twin needle played havoc again......galloping horse, galloping horse lol

Cheers!

Farbenmix meets LoveChirp

2010-05-08T20:35:00.006+08:00

And a very nice meeting it was!

I had two new baby girls to make gifts for, so I pulled out my copy of the Farbenmix Baby pattern pack (it has a very long, unpronounceable name I can't remember) from the CM Shop. I decided to do the jacket, as it is coming into winter here and I had some gorgeous cotton velour I wanted to use (stash busting and all that).

LoveChirp was the very first embroidery I bought from Huups - and wow! It is just so gorgeous :)

The jackets are identical apart from the colours I used in the embroideries. A slight mishap with my placement meant that I ended up making them into badges to sew on - but that also allowed me to position them exactly where I wanted.

I used a size 62/68, so the bubs can grow into them, and they should be light enough to wear through spring.

Cheers!

Keyka Lou Pouches

2010-05-07T16:08:00.003+08:00

The kids had a Mother's Day stall at school this week - they both needed to take a gift to the value $3. Well as I despise shopping so much, and trying to find a lovely gift for $3 to take - I gave up, stayed home and sewed one instead lol

I used one of my new Keyka Lou patterns - The Pyramid Pouch. Small yet useful and cute too. I did modify the flap slightly, as I wanted it to have a button closure like the Boxy Wallet - as I had no small snaps on hand.

I used some lovely mushroom fabric and some spots (love them spots).

The kids came home from school today - where they bought something for Mother's Day from the stall - and they were both a little disappointed that the pouches weren't there when it was their turn to buy - as they wanted to buy one for me! :)

Hope all the mums out there have a lovely Mother's Day!

Cheers!

Ottobre Saves The Day

2010-05-05T16:26:00.004+08:00

It is dress up day at school tomorrow for the letter I. I forgot this until I got to school yesterday morning. So after shopping I sat down and went through my Otto's. DD was going as an Indian (so much simpler for me). There had to be something I could use.
I was also limited with my fabric, so had to choose carefully.

I settled on a simple elastic waisted skirt, #11, from 4/2004, and modified the bottom to make a V-shape, and also chose the girls t-shirt from the same issue, #38. Now I just needed a vest.
There was a perfect one in 3/2006, #15 - but it only went to a size 104! I needed a 110. Never mind that it was a boys - we can ignore that fact. So I up-sized it one size when tracing (fingers tightly crossed that it would fit). When it came to cutting out though, I didn't have enough fabric, so I took about 10cms off the bottom - I didn't really want it anyway.

As I sewed it together, I didn't like how sharp the front was (it was meant to be button up), so I shaped it for a softer look. I used some of my previously made bias binding for the facings - it isn't perfect, but this is dress-ups!

The t-shirt I made from an old t-shirt. Now whilst the pattern states to use a firm knit, this fabric has no give at all. So I should've used a bigger size, but it will fit for tomorrow.
The fringing is fantastic (from CM Shop) - easy to sew on and completes the look.

Everything is from the stash, and the embroidery is one that came with my machine.

Cheers!

A Birthday

2010-05-05T10:25:00.006+08:00

Was celebrated last week. My boy turned 7! I still don't know where all those years went. One moment he is a baby, wanting constant feeding, next he is at school, can read by himself and needs a bigger bike! (Which luckily was a birthday present).

As seems to be the tradition since I began sewing, my kids get a new outfit for their birthdays. DS actually checked to make sure I was making one :) And when I handed him a present to unwrap, he said "Ohhh it's from Mummy. Must be new clothes". Well then, no surprises there.

I had fun picking the patterns, as he is now a size 128 (euro sizing for those thinking he is a giant lol). So that means for a lot of the Ottobre patterns, he is in the next/bigger size range, and there is some seriously cool boys wear for older boys.

Some influence for choosing patterns came from a piece of fabric I received in a Crafty Mama's swap from the lovely Lissy of handmade - homegrown. It was a woven in black with awesome dragons on it. I knew immediately that I wanted to make a button up shirt. But heading into winter and with only just enough fabric to scrape a short sleeve shirt from, also taking into account the fact that DS really didn't like button up, collared shirts, I was in for a challenge. The pants fabric was some widewale cord that I had been hoarding for years! The t-shirt fabric was a remnant of a stretchy knit - probably a cotton/elastane blend - beautiful to sew.

1/2007 had exactly what I was looking for! A button up shirt, combined with a long sleeve t-shirt (#31). Perfect. Even better, the pants paired with it in the magazine (#32), were just what I was looking for. DS loved it!

I also realised after beginning to sew the t-shirt part, that it was navy blue not black like the shirt. But it works well. I had to fussy cut the sleeves in the dragon fabric, and didn't notice that the blue dragons were different sizes at each selvedge. But these are unimportant details - it looks great overall - and I am finally getting to the point of "blind man....galloping horse" about my sewing (ie: it is perfect to my hubby, it is only me that notices the fiddly bits).

Little boast for the binding - look how great it went on with the twin needle :) Though the stupid needle decided to skip when I did the hem and I had no more, so I won't show you that.

Oh, and a sugar laden cake :) The Treasure Island cake from the Womens Weekly Kids Cake Book.

Cheers!

Pitt Pants

2010-04-22T20:18:00.003+08:00

Farbenmix Pitt. My first try at using a German pattern and it worked, so I must be doing something right :) If I am honest, I had to redo the zip a few times, and I stuffed up the top of the pockets a whisker, but all in all, the pants went together rather simply.

I did have the photo tutorial to help me along - though the babelfish translation really leaves so much to be desired. And just a side note, when they tell you (show you) to sew the tops of the pockets when they are right sides together, they really do mean it lol. I thought, what are they on about, ignored that part, turned, top-stitched and then realised what a dill I had been! That has been safely stored away for the next pair I make.

The best bit is that my son loves them! They do look a little too big on him, skinny, tall weed that he is. There is also a bit of length left in the hems, so that I can let them down when he grows. IF he doesn't wear the knees out first.

Fabric is a gorgeous soft cotton drill from the CM Shop, that has been maturing in my stash for many months. DS picked a bright orange zip from my limited collection.

And out of 5 belt loops, I managed to get one perfect bartack - I think I need to practice them a bit more.

Cheers!

April's Challenge Completed

2010-04-22T19:43:00.006+08:00

Well it may not be a completely lined item, it was about all I could muster this month. For Carolyn's April Challenge of Something Lined, here is...... a hood! lol

It also completes a sew-a-long over at Crafty Mama's where many of us had a try at the Farbenmix Imke pattern.

I did one each for my kids, off the paper pattern not from the book, as I didn't feel up to tackling the tissue patterns in the Sewing Clothes Kids Love book. I also used the pieced version for both the kids. Fabric, cotton knit (I think the pink print has a touch of poly), is all from the stash - I am trying really hard to use it up - no small feat, let me tell you!
I really like this pattern, and the sizes I chose, the kids can still wear a t-shirt underneath for winter. I would like to try them in something warmer, more as a jumper style - but with the sporty hood from the book.

I did find the neck opening with the hood to be a little snug on my big headed people, so for DD's I cut the seam allowance from the jumper part, but not the hood, and then attached. I jsut means there is a bit of a gap between the edges of the hood, instead of them crossing over. Still looks fine though :)

Cheers!

Nappy Wallet & Clutch

2010-04-12T19:56:00.004+08:00

Several months ago, my sister designed and made herself a nappy clutch. While she was at it, she also made a smaller version, a nappy wallet. The clutch can hold up to 4 nappies, a hard case of wipes, a disposable change mat and several bags for disposing of the nappies. The wallet holds 1 nappy and a small soft pack of wipes, along with some disposal bags.

My sister wanted a boys one for a baby gift, and asked if I could make it. In other words, *make one and make one for your congocart or else I will get grumpy with you* lol. My sister can be very persistent and persuasive! So I did.

It was fun, and so I made a nappy clutch for the congocart as well :)

I really like the clutch, it almost makes me want to need it!

Cheers!

April Challenge

2010-04-06T15:49:00.007+08:00

is something lined. Now, I am not sure if I will partake in this challenge, as my dress from the last post was lined, and I am certainly in no hurry to re-visit that particular challenge.
It wasn't a horrible experience, far from it really. It was just slow. And tedious. And needing perfection (and I am not a perfectionist - can't be bothered really).

So right now I am sewing clothes for my kids. Because they are really lacking in winter clothes, and I don't feel like going and buying them any. Also because I have cupboards full of fabric that I need/want to use up. Their clothes don't require perfection, they are easy to sew, and fun. As long as I remember to sew one of my labels onto them, my son is happy.

Just thinking about the current project, it has a lined hood. Would that count as fulfilling the challenge I wonder? I need to sew some of the same tops for my daughter, so maybe if I do a few it will count :)

As I can't leave this post without a picture, here is a peek at what I am currently sewing. If all goes well, it may actually be finished and wearable by tomorrow afternoon.

So maybe I will join in this challenge after all. If you want to have fun with the rest of us, head over to Carolyn's blog and put your name down. See you at the end of the month to share your projects!

Cheers!

That Dress (aka Simplicity 4653)

2010-03-29T08:45:00.006+08:00

The dress was finally finished last week. It involved a decent amount of hand sewing, which is something that I am not very good at. But it was passable, and is also proof that practice can make perfect (though I am not very willing to get it perfect, that would require way too much practice!)
The pattern is one of my Grandma's and from what I could work out, is from sometime in the 60's. My Grandma originally made the long dress, I liked the red one :)

I had to do a few modifications, like take the front of the bodice in a bit at the top, and take about 6cm off the waist seam (I am guessing I am quite short in the waist!). I also added a smidge to go over my hips, so it wasn't clingy. All in all, it worked out well.
I made it from raw silk, which was interesting to work with, I had to interface the bodice, and all the seams and darts. I also fully lined it (another thing I have never done). I am glad I did it, to say that I have made a formal dress, but I am certainly in no hurry to make another. Some of the photos were taken after we got home, as the before ones, the dress was a bit scrunched up - so hence the swing set and no shoes or makeup :)

I think hubby scrubs up rather well too - poor bloke had to wear a tie for the occasion - first time I have ever seen him in one - and we had to go and buy it specially. :)

Look at that zip! The seams match up perfectly! I am very proud of this zip. (Sorry for the white bit at the top, seems the flash decided to overexpose my underarm lol)

Oh, and I needed a bag to match, but none of my black ones were quite right, so I dug out a zip, shortened it to the length I wanted, and made a bag with some leftover fabric :)

Cheers!

The Season Has Finally Broken!

2010-03-22T20:19:00.005+08:00

Summer has finally been broken here in Perth. After a huge number of days without rain, we got rather battered by a storm front that has hit the city, from north to south.
I commented that I had never seen a storm quite like this since I have lived in Perth, and the news confirmed that - this is the worst storm the city has seen in over a decade!

The kids and I had a ball sitting out the back watching the lightning and listening to the thunder, until the loudest crack ever that made us all jump and cover our ears. But once the wind started up, we ran inside, as it was blowing rain and branches all over the place.

I think we are lucky, as many people sustained car and house damage due to the hailstones and the amount of water in such a short time.

With the flash on. All the little specks are the rain drops - they almost look like stars :)

I think we should pack the pool up now, not sure I want to swim in that! It is full of tannin from the gum trees.

Some of the flooding in our backyard - at least we won't need to water for a while now.

A bit of the mess that will need cleaning up when we dry out a bit.

Cheers!

It's News Time!

2010-03-15T13:25:00.003+08:00

Yes, finally, I can share (well at least I hope I can lol)

The Crafty Mama Marketplace opens tonight! Woot! It is happening about 7:30pm EST, which I think is about 4:30pm here in the west :)

A big thank you to Lisa, from Crafty Mamas forum and shop who is hosting the marketplace, allowing long term active forum members (like me) to all join in and have a collection of little shops for our handmade goodies, including some of mine (look for the banner like my blog - well the coloured threads anyway).

And goodies there are - these lovely mamas are super talented and their wares are gorgeous.

So without further ado - The Crafty Mamas Marketplace

Cheers!

Hellooooooooo

2010-03-13T20:28:00.003+08:00

Yes, I am still here. Plugging away on many projects at the moment. A formal dress for attending a wedding, some stock for a market at the end of the month, and some more stock for a special space to be launched on Monday the 15th of this month - I will keep you updated :)

But I have finished something. A cute strawberry redondo for DD's best friends birthday at the end of the month also.

I also owe my dear sister a present for her birthday, she asked for a knitting project bag - I have the zip and the fabric ready.
Does anyone have any time to spare? I am thinking March is a tad busy!

Cheers!

A Birthday and 2 Challenges Completed

2010-02-22T20:04:00.005+08:00

Last week it was my baby's 5th birthday - she is growing up. Awww. I also joined in with a Sew-a-long at CraftyMama's for the gorgeous Mamu Vivi pattern and I finished my item for the February challenge at Carolyn's blog :) These two items made up part of my daughters birthday present.

The Vivi pattern is gorgeous! A funky little skirt that has about 6 variations. I chose the college skirt variation, and altered it a bit too. This skirt has a pleat in the front and the back, I decided to make the pleat from a contrasting fabric, and used that same fabric for the waistband.

My knit fabric challenge was the Farbenmix Antonia top. I used a cotton/lycra for the body and stella for the sleeves and shoulders.

Both items were well received, and DD had a lovely day - she even got to take a tub full of biscuits to school to share with her class.

Cheers!

Tut tut me!

2010-02-18T10:33:00.004+08:00

I should've shared a little more about my sewing room makeover - it was part of the February Challenge over at Crafty Mamas - with the theme of Lets Get Organised. I must say I am really enjoying the space being more organised, it is so much easier to find things (who'd a thunk it really!)

As a reward for taking part in the challenge, one of our lovely members made a button/badge to showoff on our blogs - isn't it gorgeous!

So if you like doing crafty things, or just like thinking crafty, then come and join us and share the love!

Cheers!

Sewing Area Makeover

2010-02-06T11:17:00.007+08:00

Since the kids are back at school and my dear husband is on holidays, what better to do than re-arrange my sewing area to try and maximise my sewing experience (aka clean up my mess).

So we start with a trip to Ikea - with the kids and on a Saturday - not something we care to repeat in a hurry, but I must say the new store is rather nice to wander around. So we got some boxes and some more magazine holders, as hubby didn't feel like making more of the ones he made me before.

Then a trip to Bunnings to price materials and work out what we wanted to construct with. Back home for a cuppa and a sit down and work everything out. We stayed very close to my original design, but modified it slightly to work with the size of the wood we chose.
So after 2 days I had this (and yes, I had to stack the shelves the night they went in). It even has a special part at the end for my ironing board!!

And then another 1 & 1/2 days passed and we installed this half :)

It is brilliant! And it doesn't make the space look or feel closed in either, which did concern me a little, as it is a walkway and isn't a very big space either.
The kids share the bookcase side, and have their books at the bottom, while mine are up the top.

Things are still finding their place in the shelves, but I am sooooooo happy with how they turned out. Isn't my husband just the best!

Cheers!

Back to School We Go

2010-02-06T11:00:00.004+08:00

The kids headed back to school this week just gone. My DS is now in year 2 and DD is in pre-primary. So they are both at school 5 days a week this year! OMG! DD had a settling in period this week, just 2 half days and one full. Next week she has 4 full days and Wednesday off. The following week is 5 full days - along with her 5th birthday! But more on the birthday another time.

So to get them ready for school DS needed a pencil case, as they don't have them in year 1. So I had some great space fabric and DS chose the positioning as to what was showing where. I also embroidered his name on a scrap of fabric and sewed it on the back.

This was also the year that DD needed a library bag - some leftover denim and gorgeous cherry fabric were perfect! I added a unicorn embroidery and her name on the front to make it a bit prettier for her.

They both look so grown up in their school uniforms this year :)

Cheers!