There is certainly a way to know that, maybe, just maybe you’ve had a your sewing project for too long.
When the pin has been in your fabric long enough to rust, it might be time to finish the project.
I think so.
Practice: Rolling Hem Foot
Today, I watched several videos on sewing with a rolling hem foot. This “foot” attachment actually rolls the fabric so it’s stitched down. Didn’t look too hard. But as you can see, I’m going to need more practice.
I’m glad I know how to do a “rolling hem” without this piece. (wink)
Until the next practice, enjoy learning!
Erica
Repurpose: Mattress Covers
My dogs, aka “The Twins”, currently attend doggy daycare. Yes, there is such thing as doggy day care. And yes, my dogs attend. It’s a great way for them to socialize with other dogs and people, especially since we don’t live near a dog park.
Pensacola Pet Resort is the best! The girls get socialization, walks, and playtime with other dogs. The staff is super nice and knowledgeable. I could go on and on but I digress. The last time I was there, they had a notice requesting old blankets, towels and/or comforters. I knew I had old towels but I’ve already repurposed those for rainy days at home. In my efforts to clean up, I found a couple mattress covers. I thought these would be a great donation for them.
The first one is waterproof and has a plastic liner. I cut off the section that secures liner to the mattress. I think I might be able to use that part for lining in my tissue covers.
The second one is the padded mattress cover. I’m cutting away the section that secures the cover to the mattress. If I wasn’t donating it, this would make great padding for one of my many quilting projects.
Since it’s already shirred with elastic, I can see it dyed for a cute top to a sundress.
What do you think? Let me know.
Happy Repurposing!
Erica
Pin Cushion Bracelet
Have you ever been at the cutting table or ironing board, ready to pin only to look at your pincushion on the other side of the room? Huge sigh. I sigh in frustration too often. I’m at the sewing machine and pincushion is on the ironing board. And vice versa. Well not after today. I will longer sigh in frustration. Today, I made my first pincushion bracelet.
I don’t know what I’m more happy about: this cute pincushion or not having to stop what I’m doing to go get a pin. I think both.
I used this Wrist Pincushion pattern, leftover fabric from a dress, a few stitches, velcro and some glue. I couldn’t be more pleased. Will probably make a few more. But for now, I’m ready.
Happy Sewing!
Erica
“Lady in Denim”
The invitation for the 2017 GIRLFRIENDS’ GATHERING read: “Pick a color – red, yellow, green, purple, orange, brown, blue, etc. and wear it (from head to toe), and become one of the many “colored girls”. How exciting! Especially since I love color.
The birthday dinner theme “For Colored Girls” was inspired by Ntozake Shange’s 1975 original choreopoem for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf. The only difference is the party host added several more shades like gold, lavender, black, white, pink, turquoise, denim, etc.
As soon as I saw denim, I knew that was the color choice for me.
The birthday dinner experience was just that, an experience. A room full of women- age 90 to 20, smiles, laughter, music, tears, dancing, conversation, poems, pictures, and love. For my sewing readers, followers, friends and those just curious, I used McCall’s pattern 7543. See pattern review below.
Pattern Photo:
Misses’ Off-the-Shoulder Tops, Tunic and Dress.
Pattern Sizing: Small View D
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Loved the simplicity of this pattern.
Fabric Used: Lightweight denim.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I used the short sleeves from View A and shortened the dress hem (View D) by 2.5″. I used the Small size at top and under arms. According to the pattern, finished product at the bust, waist, and hips measured 36″, 39″, 42″. Since my waist and hips measure 2 inches more, I added 1/2 inch from the Small line on sides for fit.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will sew it again. Instead of the additional 1/2″, I think I’ll make the adjustment from 5/8 to 2/8 in the seam allowance. Will probably add basic side-seam pockets instead of the recommended patch pockets. I highly recommend to others.
Conclusion: This is a great pattern for beginners and experts alike. Just in time for spring and summer.
Happy Sewing!
Erica
**Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”**
Marcus Pointe Thrift Store Deals
All of this for less than $10
Have you been to a thirty store lately? If your answer is no, you are missing out on some great deals.
Shoes: $8
Fabric: 10 cent
Patterns: 50 cent
If you happen to be in Pensacola, be sure to stop by the Marcus Pointe Thrift store on “W” Street. You’ll get a card for 10% off on your next 10 purchases.
The next time you see a thrift store, don’t hesitate. You never know what gems you’ll find or how much you can save. Be sure to let me know what you find and where.
Happy Thrifting!
Erica
Morning Ride
I’m always trying to get a selfie with my girls. Didn’t work out this time either.
