cassie cakes

Weekend Sewing

2012-02-13T09:45:00.002-06:00

I sewed from two new patterns this weekend. The coin purse is an Amy Butler pattern. I purchased her bag pattern book from Joann with a 40% off coupon. This pattern was really easy to use. I added keychain hardware and assembled it the same way I do all zipper pouches. The only issue I have with this is that you can either look or reach, you can't do both. The zipper opening is just wide enough to fit your hand inside. When I make this again, i'll widen the top band so it's not so cramped when you reach in. On a positive note, it does fit the iphone!

This is the Go Anywhere Bag from Noodlehead. I purchased this pattern over the holidays when she was having a sale. This is the second purse I've made of hers, so this one was a breeze. Her patterns are SO easy to use. She provides a picture with every step. I didn't buy fabric specifically for this purse, so I just paired together what I had enough yardage of. I used some new Lotta for the outside, some gray quilters "linen" and a DS polka dot for the lining. The pocket is made out of seersucker from my scraps. I used fusible fleece to beef up the outside so it's super sturdy. I skipped the magnetic snap because I didn't have one on hand.

Another Hexie

2012-02-10T15:19:00.003-06:00

I made another hexie pouch. I used one of my new keychain hardware sets from Joann. I like it. I think the next one I'll make an inch wider to fit my iphone in sideways.

Hexie Linen Clutch

2012-02-09T11:25:00.001-06:00

I made my first linen clutch! I machine appliqued a hexie flower, too! I love the look of linen and am glad I took the leap to sew with it. I was always afraid of it because of washing, ironing, and its general shiftiness. Turns out it's pretty much just like cotton in terms of sewing ease. Do you like it? Visit my Etsy shop if you want it!

New Fabric!

2012-02-08T10:03:00.002-06:00

My first batch of zippers from Zipit. I can't wait to order more. I also want some of their cute zipper pulls.

Here are my new cotton prints. They come from Golden D'or, Joann, Fabric.com, and Stitch Lab. Don't worry, they're all half yards.

I splurged on three cotton/linen blend screen printed fabrics. They are Melody Miller for Kokka and Echino.

Som basic linens and a couple printed "linens."

Here's my fabric.com stash that arrived in the mail as I was photographing the rest. This is new Lotta and a bike print from Michael Miller.

Hexies

2012-02-07T09:42:00.001-06:00

I've been English Paper Piecing! If you have read my blog for any amount of time, you know I go through obsessive phases of crafting. This week it's hexagons. I'm not quite sure what I'll do with them yet. I'm thinking applique on some wristlets or dish towels. It is such a great way to use tiny scraps and revisit fabric you've forgotten about. I've searched tutorials for months on paper piecing, but it just seemed too tedious. It's not. It's super fast and addicting, like making yo-yo's. I have to admit I'm a bit nervous to remove the basting stitches and paper. I'll let you know!

Texas Half

2012-02-01T20:39:00.001-06:00

before the race, staying warm

Around mile 10

going uphill to the finish line

after!

the reward/Gabby's birthday cupcakes

celebratory pizza at Mama's (the best pizza in town)

I completed my first half marathon with my run club last Saturday. It was amazing! We trained well and had a great day. It was really cold and we managed to stay together and all finish within a minute of each other. I've run a couple 5k's and one 10k, but this by far blew them away. I feel so accomplished. Now where's my 13.1 sticker?

Scrappy Clutches

2012-01-30T08:35:00.001-06:00

small yellow

small blue

medium pink/red

large orange/blue

I got scrappy this weekend! I set out to make a patchwork heart and ended up making bags instead. I'm keeping the orange/blue one for myself and will probably use the other two as gifts. I think it's time to break down and buy zippers in bulk. Zippered pouches are so addicting!

Fabric List

2012-01-26T09:10:00.000-06:00

Half Moon Modern Tangerine fabric bundle by Moda

Echo Fat Quarter Bundle from Lotta Jansdotter

LouLouThi Fabric Bundle by Anna Maria Horner

I've been window shopping on Etsy for new fabrics. I have found that buying bundles is the way to go if you like to make lots of little projects (which I do). I also shop on fabric.com, but they don't have the bundle selection that small fabric Etsy shops do. My go to fabric shops on Etsy are Fresh Squeezed Fabrics, Fabric Shoppe, and Sew Fresh Fabrics. I can't wait to order some for the spring.

wristlets

2012-01-24T14:23:00.004-06:00

I made a couple of wristlets recently that I haven't blogged about. My coworker/craft buddy/jazzercise crush is making some really adorable bags right now with linen. It makes me want to embellish more and be more daring with fabric purchases. If you like mine, they're in my Etsy shop!

An iPad Case

2012-01-20T10:03:00.001-06:00

I made an iPad case for my sister in law. I didn't follow a pattern. I just did some math (ha!) and made a simple zippered pouch. I am really bad at seam allowances. I always think I am giving myself plenty, and it always comes up short. The case on the right was my first attempt. I added an inch to the size of the iPad measurements. It ended up being the same size as an iPad. I added two inches to the one on the left. Success (I think).

linings

The winner. She hasn't told me it doesn't fit, so I'll take that as a good sign.

Dresses

2012-01-13T09:02:00.001-06:00

Cacharel

Wiksten

Madewell

Wiksten

I have some dress crushes. I like these because they are simple and I might be able to sew them one day. It's too cold to wear dresses at work right now (hello 66 degrees in my classroom).

Cloth Napkin Tutorial

2012-01-11T18:57:00.006-06:00

Cloth napkins are one of my favorite things to make, not to mention easiest. They are a great housewarming gift or surprise sussie. I keep a stack on my dining room table for easy access. I also throw one in my lunch and use it all week as a napkin/placemat. I have majorly cut down on my paper towel usage. They wash and dry with ease, I have never even ironed them. They get softer and more absorbent with each wash. I usually make them in sets of six, but occasionally eight or four. It depends on the recipient, but six is usually a good amount for most people.

I hope this tutorial is super easy to follow. I've included lots of pictures. Be sure to read the entire tutorial prior to starting. (can you tell I'm a teacher?)

What you'll need (for a set of six):

-6 (pre-washed and pressed!) fat quarters of various coordinating fabric. You can also use 3 half-yards of three fabrics

-3 packages of medium rick rack. Each package has 2.5 yards, so get three to be safe.

-thread (thread colors should match your rick rack)

-sewing machine

-scissors/rotary cutter

-ruler
-iron

-optional: cutting mat

Get it all ready:

1. Cut your six fat quarters into 17 inch squares.

2. Measure rick rack into 17.5 inch strips. You will need 12 of them.

3. Pair up your napkins with rick rack. I usually buy different colors of rick rack and match them up with each square of fabric and set them together.

Let's sew:

1. Pin each strip of rick rack on opposite sides of each square. I usually eyeball it and pin it about 2.5 inches from the edge of the square, making sure it's parallel to the edge of the fabric. I prefer to do each step to each napkin, like an assembly line. It seems faster to me.

2. Make sure your top thread matches the color of your rick rack. I always have white thread in my bobbin and change the top to match. Sew all twelve rick rack strips to your napkins, no need to backstitch.

3. Press rick rack and napkin. Trim any rick rack that hangs off the edge of your fabric.

4. Now that the rick rack is attached, it's time to hem your napkins. Almost done!

5. Press/iron all four edges of your napkin 1/4 inch. At this point I go to my machine (without pinning) and hem. I fold the raw edge over as I go, taking care as I sew over the rick rack. If you aren't so steady, I would suggest ironing your 1/4 inch fold over one more time, pinning, and hemming. Hem all six napkins and press! I fold mine into thirds.

Helpful Hint: rick rack and corners can be tricky. I usually slow down and help my machine go through the rick rack by pulling the napkin a little as it goes through. When you reach the corner, make sure your needle is down in the fabric, raise the presser foot, and rotate your napkin before lowering the foot to continue.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment and I will respond directly to you or update the tutorial. Feel free to link up your napkins in the comment section as well.

Clogs Clogs Clogs

2012-01-10T12:57:00.001-06:00

These are Danskos. I have tried on a different color at Whole Earth, but I think I like this color better.

Above three images are from Wiksten. I have a clog/sock crush on her. She has such great understated style. When I read her blog it makes me want to throw stuff away in my house.

I want clogs! I wanted them a while back and got over it when I found my Frye mule/slip on boot type shoes. I love them and wear them regularly, but I still have the want for clogs. I think they will be super cute with jeggings and again in the spring and summer with dresses.

The Saddest Dinner Ever

2012-01-05T20:11:00.001-06:00

I had my heart set on tomato soup and grilled cheese. It wasn't meant to be I guess. :(

Kitchen Gifts

2012-01-03T10:51:00.001-06:00

I love receiving kitchen gifts and handmade gifts most of all. I did pretty well this year!

Hand stitched tea towel courtesy of my Moma

Ceramic fruit crate from Anthropologie

I got this awesome elaborate tea towel from Anthropologie.

Homemade Apple/Pear butter from Brian and Misty and homemade citrus and smoked sea salts from Cathy Jo and Mark. I love my foodie friends.

Hank's mom got me this ceramic egg crate. I have want this thing for at least 5 years. I can't believe I resisted the urge for so long.

Clems!

2011-12-30T16:29:00.001-06:00

I'm on my third box of clementines for the season. I dipped some in dark chocolate! They're chilling in the fridge right now. I can't wait to try them!

Testing!

2011-12-29T20:07:00.001-06:00

I'm trying out my new blogger app. Here's some yummy pumpkin bread that Hank's mom sent with us to Austin.

A Quilt!

2011-12-25T14:00:00.000-06:00

I made a quilt for TJ and Katy for Christmas! This is the gift I am most excited about giving. I used all scraps and quilted as I went (machine quilted squares and then joined them). I used a vintage sheet for the back that is so soft. It's about a full size, though I didn't officially measure it. It will be great on their sofa or to wrap up in on a cold morning.

Bias Tape!

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

When I try something new and it actually works, I get giddy and obsessive. I tried making my own bias tape (or binding) and am hooked! I have saved this great tutorial for almost a year and finally got to it. On the first try, I accidentally cut the wrong piece of fabric for about 4 inches, cutting my tape short by a yard or so. I also made it too thin. The tutorial calls for 1.5 inch strips, but my bias tape doo-hickey is for 2.5 inch strips. So it didn't iron easily. So I begrudgingly ironed all 17 yards or so. It makes so much! Then I tried 2.5 inch strips. They were a little too big for the bias tape thingy. It ironed easier, but still was a bit wonky. This morning I made the purple, and made 2.25 inch strips. Perfect! Of course all three are usable, and I loved putting them in little baggies to admire them. I'll have to share with my sewing friends. Who needs 50 yards of bias tape anyway?

Nap Mat

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

I had so much fun making this nap mat for Jamison. He is starting pre-school in January. Apparently you will be a big loser if you don't roll up with a premium nap mat. Jamison can brag that his is handmade and local. Ha! I used Urban Zoologie fabric and chocolate brown "minky" from Joann. I used this tutorial. I tweaked a couple things like using velcro instead of buttons, making the tabs one inch thinner, and using a gray strap instead of elastic covered in fabric. It was very easy to follow and I didn't do any seam ripping. The foam pad is removable for washing. I hope he likes it and doesn't grow out of it too soon!

Vacation

2011-12-20T09:36:00.001-06:00

I had a booth at the Deep Ellum Market on Saturday. It was a bust. I made a fraction of what I usually do. It was disappointing, but I had lots leftover to use as gifts or to keep for myself (green chair napkins).

I made paper bows (using this tutorial) during the last few days of school and ended up making a garland of them. I spent way too much time on each one to see them get thrown away with the wrapping paper.

I made a Christmas pillow from napkin scraps. It's a nice change for my sofa.

I have the same tree with the same ornaments, but it looks better against my new paint job.

Secret Gifts

2011-12-16T14:13:00.000-06:00

I've been whipping up some Christmas gifts for people who shall remain nameless. These holiday napkins sets are going to two super special ladies. I have some other major gifts in the works for my family. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to you and yours. Thank you for reading my blog and leaving sweet comments. I hope this break (if you get one) leaves you refreshed and inspired (to craft) in the new year. You too, Mr. Marvelle! xxoo

Gingerbread Cookies

2011-12-08T17:26:00.001-06:00

Easy Gingerbread Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon grated or ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

In a large bowl, with mixer at slow speed, beat flour, sugar, butter, molasses, egg, cinnamon, baking powder, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well mixed. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350. On a lightly floured surface, working with half of the dough at a time, roll 1/8 inch thick. With floured cookie cutters, cut dough into shapes. Using a metal spatula or pancake turner, place cookies 1/2 inch apart on greased cookie sheets (or sheets lined with parchment paper). Re-roll trimmings and continue to cut shapes. Bake 8 minutes, or until very lightly browned. Transfer cookies to racks to cool completely.

Royal Icing
2 1/4 confectioners' sugar
2 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Optional: food coloring, sprinkles

To make the royal icing, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the sugar, egg whites, vanilla, and cream of tartar on high speed until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form, about 5 minutes. It is best to use the icing immediately.

San Diego

2011-11-29T19:18:00.001-06:00

(fake pie)

I went to San Diego with Hank's family last week. We had a blast. We stayed in a super nice hotel with so many awesome native plants. Here in Texas they would be in a tiny pot. I really enjoyed the USS Midway and making photo collages with my pictures. Hank has an awesome family and I was honored to spend my favorite holiday with them. My Moma fed me leftovers last night!

Austin

2011-11-22T10:46:00.001-06:00

Katy has these, so of course I needed them too. They are silent bangles from Paper Source made from recycled flip flops.

Saturday was Hank's birthday. I baked him a yellow cake with chocolate icing.

We did a five mile jog at Town Lake.

We undid our five mile jog by eating wings at Pluckers. They have awesome lemonade.

This light fixture at Walton's made me think of my Aunt Connie Sue.

I went to Hill Country Weavers for some Manos yarn. I dove in and got the hot hot pink! I can't wait! I'm off to San Diego with Hank's family for the rest of the week. I am so excited! I hope I can see my blog/sister friend, Casey, even if its just to give her a hug. I haven't seen her since I was 18! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Moma, save me some dressing and some pie.

Soup!

2011-11-16T12:36:00.001-06:00

I've made this soup twice this year and have had great results. I just made up the recipe, though I'm sure there are plenty out there that are very similar. Here's mine.

Non-Tortilla Soup

1 rotisserie chicken torn into bite sized pieces
2 cans chicken broth
2 cans of Rotel
1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
olive oil

1. Saute the onion and pepper in olive oil until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add remainder of ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes or more.

Serve with cheese, avocado, tortilla chips, etc. Serves 6.

scarving

2011-11-15T11:59:00.001-06:00

I photographed some of my scarves today. My assistants kept making my model giggle. I call this The Many Faces of Cadence. I think she is smizing in a couple of these.

Bags

2011-11-14T13:51:00.001-06:00

I have a new addiction. Thanks, Jenn for the inspiration!

new fabric

2011-11-02T12:24:00.000-05:00

I got this fat quarter bundle on Etsy yesterday from Fabric Shoppe. It's the latest Amy Butler line. I have lots of little things to make before Christmas. This bundle should do the trick.

Gift Tags

2011-10-28T16:00:00.000-05:00

I busted out my traveling collage box. I made some gift tags. Now what? I don't know. Trina and I are doing the UPFlea, a flea market on Sunday benefitting the University Park Library. We love a good craft fair, so we are setting up shop once again. I'll package these up and see if I get any takers. If not, I guess I have all my gift tags made for the next year or so. Come see us at Snider Plaza on Sunday from 11-5pm!

B T Dub Run Club

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

We started a running club at school and it is awesome!!! We go every Wednesday on the Katy Trail after school. Right now we are doing intervals (walk run walk run) and we are logging between 4 and 5 miles per week. We are so pumped to have an official logo (thanks, Hank). I never thought I'd look forward to running. We are all about the same level so we are a great fit. Highlights of the Katy Trail include: counting six packs, creepy ski pole guy, creepy jump rope guy, creepy guy running in gladiator sandals, creepy cat stroller lady, passive aggressive thumbs up guy, and my personal favorite, creepy (front side only) spray tan guy.

New Holiday Fabric

2011-10-27T09:06:00.002-05:00

I never thought I'd buy holiday fabric, but here it is. It started at Hobby Lobby with a few half yard cuts. Then I made the mistake of looking on fabric.com. There are so many cute hip fabrics for the holidays. I ended up with eleven half yard pieces or 5.5 yards total! Oops! I think I'll make some napkins and sell them individually so people can mix and match. We have a few markets coming up, so I'll try that out before I put them into sets. But for now I'm just admiring them.

Fabric Scarves

2011-10-26T14:18:00.001-05:00

southwest print in jersey knit

plaid fleece

floral fleece (kind of Amy Butler-ish)

floral flannel with pom pom trim

I attempted some fabric scarves this week. I got the idea and the general instructions from here. The fleece ones are just sewn into circles, but the southwest print and the floral pom pom one took a little more effort. My lesson for these? PIN PIN PIN. I had to completely seam rip the flannel one and redo it, with about 20 pins and my zipper foot. The southwest print sold right away, but I have enough fabric to make another. The rest are on my etsy.

Scarves

2011-10-26T14:09:00.000-05:00

I've made some scarves since the market. Check them out on Etsy!

Market

2011-10-17T19:49:00.000-05:00

Here are our crammed tables! We had so much stuff! It thinned out through the day. My best sellers were clippies and skinny scarves. Trina sold out of her ephemera packs. I stole the best one before they sold. Overall we had a great day. The weather was perfect, and the zombie watching was great.

Sweet Katy got me these Texas earrings from the booth next to us. I think I'll wear them all week since the Rangers won the ALC on the day I put them on.

Trina from Feed the Birdies has THE BEST found paper and collage goodies. She says this is only the tip of the iceberg! How cute are her bookmarks? We trade a lot if you can't tell. Check out her awesome vintage finds here.

Baby Bedding

2011-10-10T14:49:00.002-05:00

I made some baby bedding for an expecting friend. I ordered the Amy Butler fabric this summer, and added a Joel Dewberry print from City Craft. I have never made a crib bumper before until now. I kind of used a pattern. I used the pattern pieces, but did not follow the vague one sentence directions. The pillows were easy and fun. The quilt ended up being my favorite part. I knew I wanted it to be toddler sized, so I just started cutting 20 x 20 squares and laying them on the floor. Then I started cutting and rearranging them until I got this random pattern. I'm really happy with the way it turned out. Though my picture makes it look all wrinkly, it really isn't in person. I backed it with some green polka dot from Joann. I used the quilt as you go method, and I will definitely do it again. The top came together so fast. Once I finish hand quilting my current quilt in progress, I'll be making another one of this style! Thanks Mandy for trusting me with your baby bedding!

Some Sewing and Salading

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

I made this super fun apron top for my little friend, Laurel, in North Carolina. She is totally Punky Brewster in toddler form. I'm going to send this with a clippie that doesn't match. She'll love it.

So, Cathy Jo makes the best salad. I attempted to recreate it last night. I shall call it the CJ salad. It has field greens, Honeycrisp apples, pecans, and blue cheese crumbles. The dressing is a champagne vinaigrette. The recipe can be found here. I couldn't find champagne vinegar or even white wine vinegar, so I got white balsamic. It still tasted great.

Purge

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

The changing of the seasons brings on a need to purge, to clean, to sort out, and rearrange. William Morris said, “Have nothing in your homes that you do not know to be useful and believe to be beautiful.”

My mom sent this quote out last week. I am really good at purging, de-cluttering, and donating stuff I don't ever use. I opened my make up drawer the other day to find all of these! I don't even wear lip gloss! I stick with my peppermint Burt's Bees lip balm, and only use it after I brush my teeth! How did I even get all of these? It's time to either use these up, or throw them in the trash I guess. I wonder what else I can throw away?

San Antonio

2011-10-05T08:42:00.001-05:00

Downtown San Antonio was really cool. We visited the Alamo, went to El Mercado, walked the entire Riverwalk, and tried Dough Pizzeria (as seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives). It was super yummy and worth the trip. Since I finished the novel, Texas, about a week ago, all of the history of the Alamo was very fresh in my mind. I love that I actually knew what happened inside and outside of those walls.

Weddings

2011-10-04T20:20:00.001-05:00

I went to two weddings two weekends in a row.

They were both so different and so much fun.

I helped with the rehearsal dinner centerpieces.

Baby Grace is the new family baby.

Bitsy stayed on the dance floor the entire night.

My pretty Moma holding our Grace Ann.

San Antonio wedding: Courtney (one of my oldest friends) and me

My handsome guy.

A Special Tote

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

This is a very special tote for a very special girl. It's her birthday! CJ, I hope you like it! I'm sure you were on to me when I had you pick out your own fabric. The fabric is Prince Charming by Tula Pink and the tote pattern is from here. I'm off to Austin and San Antonio for another wedding. I love weddings.

catch up

2011-09-29T12:41:00.003-05:00

Mini scarf/necklace out of a small ball of cotton-this is very Halloween.

scrap hat

napkin set that's part of a wedding gift.

I've been playing catch up to get some serious crafting done. I love to craft, but when you're on a deadline, procrastinating is bound to happen. I finally got all of my wedding/birthday gifts finished (5 gifts to be exact!) That paired with knitting and clippie production for the October market has had me pressed for time. I'll be out of town for another wedding this weekend, but I'll pack my yarn and needles to squeeze in some knitting. Have a great weekend!

Cards

2011-09-24T12:19:00.000-05:00

I put together this elaborate collage bag to take to work to make my cards. There are birthdays and weddings galore this month and next. Once I got started, I didn't want to use anything I brought except sticker letters and my new Washi tape. I like the simplicity of them.

Pinterest Muffins

2011-09-23T10:24:00.000-05:00

We are all addicted to Pinterest. I thought I would actually try a recipe rather than just pin it and forget it. Pumpkin puree and a yellow cake mix, that's it? I didn't do much research on this recipe other than reading the caption on the pin. I did add some cinnamon and nutmeg. I just put them in a bowl and stirred them together with a rubber spatula. The muffin tins were quite full. There were little pellets of cake mix that didn't dissolve, but I just stuck with the plan. I baked for 25 minutes. They didn't change much in appearance. The taste? I give them a B. They were really dense. The flavor was subtle pumpkin, not too sweet. After I tried mine, I got online to see what other people did. One person added icing, another powdered sugar. If I made this recipe again, I would definitely use my mixer to generate more air. I would also try it in a bread pan rather than muffins. I love pumpkin anything, but this might not be the best recipe for me. I love to bake, so I wouldn't mind the extra work to get a better result.

Austin Lately

2011-09-22T08:52:00.000-05:00

How cute is Kelsey in her birthday jumper I made?

Hank makes the best breakfasts. This is a fried egg taco with roasted potatoes, cheese, and Hatch chile salsa.

Hank is pretty good at lunch too! Nachos: grilled chicken (with homemade pesto (I made) marinade), red onion, cheese, black beans, cilantro, and roasted Hatch chiles.

We went bowling. Hank and I dominated.

I cut a huge stack of circles for yo-yo's for Saturday football watching.

All done!

Eye Candy

2011-09-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's Katy (my favorite knitting buddy) and me at the Amarillo airport. Our flight was delayed, so we did some tandem yarn balling.

Gorgeous yarn from Hill Country Weavers in Austin

(my other knitting buddy, Macy)

I think the more I knit, the faster fall will arrive, don't you think?

Necklace Holder

2011-09-20T09:55:00.001-05:00

I scored this spoon holder for $2 at the Goodwill in Amarillo last month. It was calling my name. I have been looking for a cheap/easy way to hang my necklaces. For me, if I can't see them, I won't remember to wear them. I stuck a fake flower at the top to hide the nail it's hanging on.

knits

2011-09-19T13:38:00.002-05:00

Hand dyed Merino wool in "highlighter."

Cotton/poly blend skinny scarf

Highlighter hat

Merino wool/silk blend in a double drop stitch

I wrapped up a few projects this weekend in Austin. I have lots to do before the October 15th Deep Ellum Market. I hope you can stop by and visit Trina and I. If you're the lazy type, visit our shops online! See Trina's awesome vintage scores here. You know where to find me.

extra clutch

2011-09-10T13:01:00.000-05:00

I made this clutch a couple weeks ago, and my friend Courtney snatched it right up! I haven't had much motivation to make bags until recently. I figured I have way too many bags, so does everyone else. They are a great challenge. I've been following Travel Handmade and it has really inspired me to make more bags and pouches. I want to create a messenger bag that will hold my knitting looms, needles, and hooks.

Knit Photo Etsy

2011-09-08T13:49:00.000-05:00

I had one of my students model for me during class so I could list some of my knits on Etsy. Isn't she cute? These are some of my favorite shots. Visit my shop to see the rest. I also put a ton of stuff on sale for the end of summer. Check it out!

knitting season

2011-09-06T22:19:00.002-05:00

It's knitting season! I can't stop. I have so many sewing and knitting projects going on right now I'm actually scheduling them out so I can get them all done in time. I have birthday gifts, wedding gifts, and a few custom orders. It's good to be busy. I got this super soft Spanish combed cotton at Woolie Ewe at the beginning of the summer. These wash cloth sets will be part of my wedding gifts.

241 Tote

2011-08-29T07:00:00.002-05:00

I bought this 241 Tote pattern last week and have been excited for the challenge. I got some new Denyse Schmidt Sugar Creek fabric this weekend, and got busy. This was a really great pattern. The instructions were clear, there were tons of photos, and I didn't do any seam ripping! I highly recommend this pattern if you are looking for a great bag/tote to sew. I cut all of my pieces the night before, so that helped break up the time it took to make this. I think it took me about an about an hour to cut pieces and two hours to construct it. Not bad for a weekend project.

Ring Bearer Pillow

2011-08-27T13:00:00.000-05:00

Happy first weekend of school! I made this ring bearer pillow for TJ and Katy and their upcoming wedding. Katy picked this vintage quilt square from my stash and gave me the brown wooden button. I was restless one night this summer and made this and immediately hid it in my closet so she wouldn't see it. I'm giving it to her today at her shower. I hope she likes it!

Zippers

2011-08-24T08:41:00.000-05:00

School is back in full swing. I find myself with less and less time for sewing. I put in my first zippers the week before I went back to work (before I made the clutch that I blogged about last week). Thanks to confidence from my friend, CJ, and locating my zipper foot, I was good to go. I used a simple zipper pouch pattern from the book The New Handmade. I was amazed at how easy they are! I'm sure I won't feel the same way when I try one on a dress. I'll let you know!

Clutch

2011-08-19T14:49:00.000-05:00

I got really ~~envious~~ inspired when I saw that my coworker made this super cute clutch over the summer. I had to try it. I used this tutorial. It was a little confusing at times. The pictures didn't always match the instructions, but I figured it out after reading through the comments section. I only seam ripped once! It's the perfect size for shades, keys, and phone! I'm off to Amarillo for the weekend for antiquing, Wonderland, good food, and family! I hear it gets down to 67 at night. Can't wait.

Little Things

2011-08-12T10:23:00.001-05:00

I got crafty with my scraps this week. I guess this is what they call "stash busting."

I had one large piece of muslin left so I made a dish towel.

I whipped up a couple drawstring pouches to use as sussies or gift bags. I used leftover grosgrain ribbon for one, and a shoelace for the other (oops!)

I made a patchwork comp book cover after I saw it here. The tutorial referenced was way too confusing for me, so I just figured it out for myself. I'm working on a pdf tutorial for this so I can share it with you. There are lots of these online if you are curious.

Obsessed

2011-08-11T11:42:00.000-05:00

I loved the gingham dress so much, I just had to make another one. I chickened out on taking in the shoulders. I didn't want to waste/mess up this awesome Alexander Henry "Heath" cross-hatched orange fabric. I did make the back tie smaller, and shortened the hem to above the knee. I have an idea to trace the original boddess pattern onto paper, taking in the shoulders, and trying it on some not so awesome fabric. If I can modify this into a tank dress, the pattern will be really versatile. Excited! Today is my last free day to sew all I want. I have to make it count!

Dress Success

2011-08-10T10:56:00.000-05:00

Finally, a pattern I understand! I love to look at patterns and buy them with the intention of making something. It's rare. I would rather stick to what I know. Most of the time I use a pattern, I get really frustrated, and it never turns out. The instructions are vague, and there is lots of seam ripping.

I got all my pieces cut, I used oversized gingham by Lisette. I have been on the lookout for this kind of fabric ever since I saw this cute waitress at Justine's wearing a black and white gingham dress with oversized pockets.

I had to seam rip about 6 times, but they were all small seams, and I understood what I did wrong immediately after. The boddess was hard, but I was able to visualize the finished top as I was making it, unlike most patterns. Most of the time I just stare at the directions with the pieces in my hand for an hour and give up.

Ta dah!!!!! I added the pockets. Part of me thinks they are a tad too close together, but not enough to redo them. The cap sleeves are a little dramatic, I will probably scale them back next time I make this dress, which I will, for sure.

The keyhole back is my favorite part. I used the exact pattern size for the straps, which I think is a little big, I'll make those thinner on the next one.

I love it. I think it's a little too big, but I don't think I'll cut the pattern down. I'll just scale down the shoulders. I can't wait to wear this. I had so much fun making this yesterday, that I think I might make a shorter one today in orange. I have so many projects I need to tackle before I go back to work next week. Here's to craging for the rest of the summer!

Sunday Sewing

2011-08-09T17:17:00.000-05:00

I've had the fabric for both of these napkin sets for months, but I spent most of June and July burned out on sewing. I started sewing again Sunday afternoon, and I have the bug again. The napkins are in my Etsy shop, the skirt is a commission for Katy. She's giving it to her 8 year old niece. I loved picking out the giant pink rick rack.

Vintage Day Bed Score

2011-08-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

My home is complete! I FINALLY found the sofa meant for my living room. It's a day bed. I've had the day bed idea for a few months, but wasn't quite sure what style I wanted. When Trina sent me the link to an estate sale near my house, I met her the next day. There were two of these beds, and I needed to visit them. I figured I would go in, see the bed, see that it was out of my price range, and walk away. I was so wrong! It was only $75! Trina and I all but laid on them so no one else could have them. My brother helped us haul. We washed the cool 80s sheets underneath, and set them up in our places. I love mine already. I might have already taken two naps on it. Go visit Trina to see hers!

Austin Pics

2011-08-06T09:44:00.000-05:00

Hank and I at Uchiko for my birthday (I had a fever, yuck). The food was amazing as always.

Hank bought me a dress. A DRESS! He did so great! It's a Tracy Reese dress from Anthropologie. I never would have picked it, but I love it. I can't wait to wear it this fall with tights and boots.

Gordough's Granny's Pie donut. Yum.

Hank took really good care of me while I was sick. Black bean tacos.

Peach and Fig Salad from Second Bar and Kitchen.

Lakehouse!

Lakehouse sunset

Cruising around Lago Vista, using my new Instagram app. LOVE IT.

Feeding deer at sunset.

Workshop

2011-08-05T08:59:00.000-05:00

I took an AP Drawing and Design workshop in July at UT Austin. It was so fun to be the student and draw again! I love drawing, but rarely choose it over other crafts/sewing. We drew chairs with ebony and gesso, did a sepia toned hand drawing, and did a pear study. I drew the apple on the last day just for fun.

tutorial fail-waterbottle cozies

2011-08-03T11:10:00.000-05:00

We were really smart and made measurements, seam allowance included (so we thought)

we cut

we are so awesome

her sewing machine was being mean, lots of thread yanking

oops, too small

time to remeasure, this time, account for ALL seam allowances.

mismatched bottom? who cares, we just want to finish this.

here we go, this might actually work

Yeah, not cute. Lesson learned.

Pump Up the Jam

2011-07-23T11:45:00.000-05:00

Sterilizing jars and lids at 175 degrees in my oven.

Strawberries, sugar, lemon juice,lemon zest, and a little bit of water (I didn't have enough juice to dissolve the sugar)

Cooking down took twice as long as the recipe.

hot liquids into hot jars, on a clean towel.

Pretty pretty jam pics taken outside!

Next day jam on freshly baked biscuits. Yum!

I have never made jam before. I followed Barefoot Contessa's recipe. I read many of the reviews before starting and found them mixed. I doubled her recipe and used half pint jars (making 8). They are small and cute and I figured I could share the jam love with more people that way. I was slightly stressed out because I started the process of sterilizing, and then realize that I hadn't hulled and chopped three pounds of strawberries or juiced any lemons. I figured that the jars could stay in the oven for the duration of the cooking, so I had them in there about twice as long as the recipe called for. I started by combining the sugar and lemon juice. There wasn't near enough juice to dissolve the sugar, so I added a little water and that did the trick. I cooked and cooked those strawberries, but the juice never quite set up. Many reviews said that would happen. I figured it would taste good either way, jammy or not. Once I poured the hot liquid in the hot jars, I cleaned the rims with a clean wet paper towel, and put the lids on. I put them in the fridge overnight and immediately started bragging to people that I MADE JAM!

The verdict: It tasted amazing. Nice and sweet with chunky strawberries. The juice never quite set up, so the strawberries sat on my biscuit, while the juice soaked in. No complaints. Yum. The next night, I brought a jar of jam to my Moma's house. I told her how the jam never set up. She said the same thing always happened to her, and her fruit would float. That didn't happen to me, but she suggested pouring it over ice cream. She had just enough Bluebell Homemade Vanilla for us to each have a small scoop with my strawberry "jam" on top. YUMMMY! Way way better than on the biscuits. It was so perfect on ice cream, that I don't even want to call it jam. Strawberry topping is more like it. If I made jam again, which i will (the jars are too cute not to) I would choose a different fruit (strawberry isn't even my favorite) and follow a recipe that calls for pectin (the liquid setter-upper).

Summer Doin's

2011-07-22T11:39:00.000-05:00

I made PW's Avocado Egg Salad. Mine turned out more like a dip, but tasted amazing on baguette with tomato. Great summer lunch/snack.

I'm still making bracelets and marathoning law and order episodes (SVU of course).

My auntie and I went to the Woolie Ewe for the first time. I have always known about it, but I can't resist those Joann coupons. I like to go to nice yarn shops when I am going to knit something special, usually for myself. I didn't realize that it was so close to my Moma's house (.2 miles). It's in the old Music Manor location, I couldn't believe it! Music Manor was quite the hot spot in high school. I picked up 3 skeins of variegated combed cotton. Connie Sue and I did a little happy dance when we were realizing how much cotton they had.

The best part of the trip was when I used a gift card I received back in December. I had no idea how much was on it. Cha-ching, $40!!!! Thanks, Mary B! So I have some left over! I'll definitely be back.

Home-mage to Homey

2011-07-21T10:44:00.000-05:00

I lost my 12 year old kitty last week. I just wanted to share some of my favorite pics of Homeboy, aka Homeslice, Homeskillet, Handsome. The night I knew he was gone, I dreamed about him, he came to the back porch and he was in his prime. Except he was white. Love you Homey kitties!

Friendship Bracelets

2011-07-18T10:29:00.000-05:00

I have a new obsession. I came across this post and immediately went to Hobby Lobby in Austin to grab some embroidery thread. I already had tons at home, but I had to make one right away! I have never ever made one, not even in middle school. In fact, I don't think I've ever even received one. I followed the tutorial and was hooked. My first one took several hours, but now I can make one in about an hour and a half. It's similar to knitting to where you can sit and watch law and order and make them at the same time. So far I've made 13! My favorite one is reds and pinks and extra tiny. See Bitsy wearing it. Her mom cut off the ties so it would stay on "permanently" like in middle school. It's so cute to see her wear a bracelet. She also likes that we all have one on too, she fits right in.

That cool thread holder was giving to me by my mom's bff when she moved. I just threw it in my craft closet. When I got back from Austin, I got it out and got it all organized. I only purchased a few new colors. I don't know what I like more, making bracelets, or winding the new thread on one of those paper spools. Who needs a bracelet?

Summer and Austin

2011-07-17T17:21:00.000-05:00

I trimmed some Lantana from Hank's flowerbed. I had to girl it up a bit at his house.

Hank and I had Homeslice with our best friends to commemorate Hank and my one year anniversary. We had pizza that day with CJ and Mark, so we had to recreate the event, but with much better pizza. Earlier that day, Hank and I tried Stand Up Paddling or SUP on Town Lake. I just call it paddle boarding. It's where you stand on a big surfboard and paddle with an oar. It was a pretty good workout heading upstream.

Here's a tired doggy after she spent a couple hours at Redbud Isle chasing a tennis ball in the lake.

Cathy and I have been planning a trip to Gordough's for a year. We finally met for dessert on Sunday night. This is a peach filled doughnut with cinnamon, sugar, and cake mix topping. Four forks, but CJ and I ate most of it. It was glorious.

Here's Bitsy having her first Push Pop.

This is Miss Grace Ann, or "Baby Gace" as Bitsy calls her. She is breaking in her quilt I made for her back in March. She's a perfect fit!

My mixing bowl was on my counter and made a super cool reflection, had to document.

I've been doing some major quilting. I'm about halfway. It sure is hot under a quilt in the summer.

Strawberry Cream-A No Bake Pie

2011-07-16T11:37:00.000-05:00

I made this easy strawberry pie for the Fourth. I have never made a pie before. I have a pie plate, but it was way too small for this recipe. I smushed that graham cracker crust in 4 dishes before settling on a square casserole dish. Here's the recipe:

serves 6-8

2 lbs. fresh strawberries (about 2 containers) tops removed, plus four strawberries, reserved

1 1/4 cups milk ( I used lactose free milk)

1/4 cup sugar

5 tbsp. cornstarch

3 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon)

2 1/2 graham cracker crumbs (I bought a box of graham crackers, smashed them in a ziplock bag, then measured from the bag)

10 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

1 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp. confectioners' sugar (if you don't want to make whipped cream, you could always sub cool whip for a faster topping)

Place two pounds strawberries in a blender and blend on high until pureed, about 10 seconds (do in two batches if necessary). Combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch in a heavy bottomed sauce pan, and whisk until dissolved. Add the strawberry puree and lemon juice. Cook on high heat, whisking frequently, until the mixture is thick and bubbling (about 7 minutes); remove from heat. Place graham cracker crumbs in a 10" x 1 1/2" deep pie plate, drizzle with melted butter and mix until all the crumbs are moistened. With the back of a spoon, press evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate to form a crust. Pour strawberry filling into crust and let cool completely (about 30 minutes). Cover and refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, place heavy cream in a mixing bowl and, with an electric mixer, blend on high until stiff peaks form. Add confectioners' sugar and blend another ten seconds. Using a spatula, spread the whipped cream over the filling. Slice reserved strawberries, add to top and serve.

I wasn't sure if I was going to like strawberry pie in this format, but the lemon juice gave the strawberries a nice crisp taste, and the buttery graham cracker crust balanced it out so perfectly. Bobby Heath had three pieces. Hey Mrs. M, are you gonna make some pie? I hope so!

Good Food

2011-07-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

A sneak peak of Bobby's famous barbecue on July 4th

I made some yellow tomato salsa, though I think it should be called corn salsa. It's very sweet and fresh. I don't have the recipe with me anymore, but its yellow tomato, fresh corn (cooked only for 3 min), chives, poblano pepper, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, tomato juice, and salt/pepper.

This is the best Italian sandwich ever from Jimmy's.

I made onion and tomato casserole one night to go with some grilled chicken. Easy. Get the recipe here.

More Vintage Finds

2011-07-05T20:37:00.000-05:00

cheese platter with lid

hot pink Thermos

smallish orange Pyrex bowl

large white Pyrex bowl

I went to the Mckinney Square last Saturday with my Moma and Katy. We were bummed to see the Clyde's Bargain Barn was gone, but we still scored some treasures. It's great to see that the square is doing well, but we missed the old junk shops that have been replaced with restaurants.

Hank Pillows

2011-06-29T14:31:00.000-05:00

I finally finished Hank's pillows. I already had the navy rope fabric that I planned to make a bag with, but I lost interest. I picked up two pillow forms from Joann and one yard of the sailboat fabric. These are "interior decorating" fabrics. They say "dry clean" but I just washed them on delicate and dried them. They look fine. These have envelope backs with the opposite fabric on the back. Total cost: $25!

Peach Pancakes

2011-06-29T14:27:00.000-05:00

I made peach pancakes this weekend! I found the recipe in Better Homes & Garden but modified it a bit to make it easier. I highly recommend these! I didn't need syrup with the diced peaches on top, but with no peaches I would use powdered sugar or syrup. I made a whole batch (serves 6) and froze the rest. They did quite well in the toaster a few days later. Here's the recipe:

Instead of whipping cream, I used half n half. Instead of the wheat flour, flour, and baking soda, I just just an equal amount of Pioneer pancake mix.

Start to Finish: 30 minutes

Ingredients

2 15-oz. cans peach slices (juice pack)
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1-1/2 cups oat flour or whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
1-1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1-1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
Fresh or frozen peaches, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Drain peaches; reserve several peaches to serve on top. In blender process peaches until smooth. Transfer to bowl; stir in cream and eggs; set aside.
2. In large bowl combine flours, brown sugar, baking powder, spices, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add peach mixture. Stir just until moistened. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto hot, lightly greased griddle; spread to 4-inch circle. Cook over medium heat 1 to 2 minutes per side. Serve with chopped peaches. Makes 6 servings.

vintage finds

2011-06-23T11:01:00.000-05:00

Vintage Coca-Cola crate with Dallas on the side! I wanted this to house my collection of jars.

Smallish Pyrex-I know these are all the rage.

1960s juice jar-this is currently holding my cold coffee

At Value World Thrift Store, (there are about 7 thrift stores less than a mile from my house) I found two vintage pillow cases and one large flat sheet. It will be a great quilt back. I think the pink one should be a new pillow or a pillow case dress.

living room redo

2011-06-22T13:38:00.000-05:00

I finally repainted my living room. I used to have completely different furniture to go with my dark brown walls. It looked amazing. See the old living room here. When the furniture left, I was too lazy to repaint. Now that it's summer, I have no excuse. I painted the trim a bright white, and the walls a gray blue called River Rock. All of the furniture is the same, but I rearranged some of the artwork on the walls. I love how bright the room is now. I also took the curtains down. I love the naked window, it looks much cleaner now. All I need to do now is find that perfect vintage sofa.

The start of summer

2011-06-16T10:28:00.001-05:00

tomato/basil/mozzarella salad (homegrown basil)

This was my first visit to Barton Springs Pool. It's a cold 68 degrees all the time! I was skeptical, but it was so hot, it felt amazing. There was some great people watching. We also went kayaking on town lake and we saw so many turtles.

watermelon/mozzarella/basil/proscuitto salad

green chili cheeseburgers and homemade zucchini fries

lunch at Walton's

coffee at Jo's

I took advantage of some rotting bananas. This recipe is the best I've ever used.

Macy, my BFF in Austin while everyone worked.

Hank pulled over so I could snip some wild sunflowers (weeds).

I didn't want to come home, but I had to so I can get ready for the Deep Ellum Market this Saturday. I'll be selling my stuff, some paper goods for Trina, and the remaining inventory from The Shining. I really really hope Vicki has this silver bracelet left that I have been coveting for over a year. Hope to see you there! We will be in the covered lot (no sunburns!) from 11am-5pm.

Down and Dirty

2011-06-06T09:14:00.000-05:00

(all photos by Theresa Green)

Yesterday I participated in the Merrell Down and Dirty 10k Mud Run. It was a blast! I dreaded the training, but I am SO glad I followed through because it made it easier than I expected. I would definitely do another one, but maybe just a 5k. It was a great way to kick off my summer.

mugs and rugs

2011-06-02T09:09:00.000-05:00

My friend Paige and I made some retirement gifts for our lunch bunch. She made the mugs and I made the rugs! Mug rugs are great coasters for your coffee, with room for a snack. We hope our ladies enjoy their coffee as they rock in their chairs and think about all the things they are going to do, or not do from now on!

Weekend in pics

2011-06-01T11:21:00.001-05:00

Hank repaired my screened in porch this weekend. It was busted through in four places. It was such a cheap fix I accidentally got some new plants and chairs while I was out. We put in some serious porch time this weekend.

I made herbed butter with fresh herbs from my garden: sweet basil, Thai basil, chives, parsley, and thyme.

I slathered it all over grilled corn and topped it off with parmesan. Best corn ever.

I did a little baking...cinnamon streusel muffins

Here's the afternoon light I promised my new plants that they would get. Now I have to remember to water these too!

Countdown to Summer

2011-05-24T14:00:00.000-05:00

I've made a few more apron tops before summer. I hope to sell them before school is out or at the market in June. There's a short window of time where they are popular and easy to sell.

I am so swamped at work, training for a 10k, and doing way too much sewing/standing. I have finally started hand quilting to give my lower back a break. I can power through whole seasons of Law and Order SVU on netflix and quilt the day away. I think the first Pride and Prejudice viewing of the summer is in order. I have 33 more squares to go. End of summer maybe? Only 7 days of work left!

last week-skirts and stuff

2011-05-18T13:05:00.000-05:00

I love my cone flowers. They came from a $1 wildflower seed packet from Target. Four years later they look like they are here to stay! They remind me of Boston!

Here's cute Montana sporting my first shirt dress of the summer. It's open in the back, but looks like a dress in the front.

I whipped up this skirt for a quick graduation gift. It has one side pocket.

I found some seersucker at Joann and trimmed this skirt with some red rick rack. I used the selvedge to add a little interest.

This is another mini with two pockets. It's made for teeny high school students or 'tweens.

We made these strawberry cupcakes for my mom's 60th. They were super good!

a week of sewing

2011-05-15T20:42:00.000-05:00

I did some major cutting and assembling this week. I want to take full advantage of my cute models before school is out.

A girly dress for Bailey

Mini skirt with pockets from the jumper pattern

Apron Top

Apron top from my Stitch Lab purchase

A yellow dress with cool hand drawn hill thingys

model session

2011-05-11T09:28:00.000-05:00

Look at my cute model. I needed to list some items on etsy and I wanted to have a little fun.

my best customer

2011-05-06T15:26:00.000-05:00

tops listed

2011-05-05T18:42:00.002-05:00

I've listed these on etsy, here and here. I'm off to Austin this weekend. I hope to come back with some cotton lawn from Stitch Lab. Have a great weekend!

cooking and stuff

2011-05-04T07:00:00.002-05:00

On Monday night I made the Pioneer Woman's shrimp scampi. This lady is serious business! She makes cooking easy, simple, and yummy. This is one of her sixteen minute meals. It might be one of the easiest, best dinners I have ever made. Ever.

The herb planter is thriving. I've managed to toss them in almost every dinner I've cooked this week.

I don't know where cake mix cookies have been all my life. I found out about these a couple months ago, but didn't try them until saturday. Easiest cookies ever.
1 box cake mix (any flavor, I used devil's food)
2 eggs
1/2 cup oil
1 cup of whatever chips or nuts ( I used butterscotch chips)

When you stir the ingredients it turns to dough immediately. Use a tablespoon size and round them in to balls and bake on parchment paper at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. They are so soft even after three days.

I also learned a new method of hard cooking eggs. I used to boil them for about 10 minutes, but this time tried Everyday Food's method. Bring to a boil (eggs in the water) and remove from heat immediately and cover for 12 minutes. The yoke is a perfect yellow and the whites aren't rubbery at all. I have never cared about the texture of my boiled egg, but now I see what they mean!

I did some yard work on Saturday and rewarded myself with some perennials for my skinny flower bed by my walk. I already have Mums (that bloom in spring, they're confused), some Austin transplant Agave, and some Purple Heart/Wandering Jew. Hopefully they will fill in and come back every year like the rest of the bed.

I had two empty pots so I planted some shady color and some sweet basil (not pictured).

I hope you had a fun, productive weekend! I only have 21 days of work left until summer!

a week of sewing-part 3-skirts n stuff

2011-05-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

This is Katy's skirt. It's an Alexander Henry Larkspur print. It's 25 inches long aka teacher appropriate length!

I bought this fabric with no plan. I just had to have it. That's the worst reason to buy fabric. But we are all guilty. I looked up some measurements for a ten year old and made this. So I'm considering it "tween" size. Hopefully 'tweens think chairs are cool. I doubt it.

Oh the sofa fabric! I bought this at the same time as the chair print if you couldn't guess. This one is great for summer since it's short. I think I'll classify this as teenager size, even though I would totally wear it.

This is an extra special pressie for an extra special girl that goes to UT. It's not exactly burnt orange, more of a sherbet color. It's Amy Butler Midwest Modern.

a week of sewing-part 2-tops

2011-05-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

I made these two Thursday night. I have a real problem with ordering fabric online. I think I need to stop for at least two weeks. The first print is a faux denim with poppies. The second is a Moda print. I love how mod it is. As soon as I see my model in class I'll list these.

a week of sewing-part 1-dresses

2011-05-01T20:35:00.001-05:00

I cut and sewed the parts for this dress but didn't assemble until Sunday. I love this Jay McCarroll Habitat print. I want to keep it. I say that about lots of things though.

I made this dress for a student. She picked out the fabric. It's Amy Butler Midnight something or other.

This is my semi-fail halter dress. I tried to follow a pattern. The directions are so vague and made me feel really stupid on Saturday when I spent three hours making it. It's only missing one part of the pattern, so I guess it's considered "modified" right?

I made this skull dress Thursday night and sold it Friday. I miss it already. It's Alexander Henry's Indigo Skulls.

weekend in pics

2011-04-26T09:56:00.000-05:00

I had the best meal at this new place in Plano called Whiskey Cake. Everything was so good, especially my cocktail. It was like a Mojito with basil instead of mint.

On Saturday we went to White Rock Lake. I jogged while Hank rode.

I went to my first Ranger game in about 10 years. It was just as fun as I remembered.

I'm sporting an apron top that I made. Ranger colors!

I made Hank a soft boiled egg with little soldiers. They remind me of the continental breakfasts I had when I visited Paris.

I scored two Easter baskets! I don't know how I managed that.