tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40852589804660199692012-02-11T00:35:14.555-08:00Sewing projects, patterns and tutorials: A writer and editor by day, Lindsay Conner sews stuffed toys and custom creations by night. You can keep tabs on her crafty ventures at this blog, or follow on Twitter and Facebook.Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125LindsaySewshttp://feedburner.google.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-52370643432339061662012-02-10T05:41:00.000-08:002012-02-10T05:44:58.177-08:002012-02-10T05:44:58.177-08:00I am so excited to share with you a secret project I've been working on.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6832946297/" title="Glass Half Full - Quilt Pattern by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Glass Half Full - Quilt Pattern" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6832946297_864ff78286_z.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;">Meet <i>Glass Half Full, </i>my first <a href="http://meylah.com/lindsaysews/glass-half-full-quilt-pattern" target="_blank">downloadable PDF</a> quilt pattern!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Since starting this blog, I've so enjoyed learning and quilting along with the online community. One of my 2012 sewing goals is to design sewing patterns. I plan to release several patterns this year - many for free and some for purchase. (The next one will be free!) I have been sketching ideas for quilts, bags, and more, and I can't wait to share them with you as this year unfolds!</div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6832935851/" title="Glass Half Full Quilt - Yellow Tumbler by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Glass Half Full Quilt - Yellow Tumbler" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6832935851_99b721cc1f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <b>Glass Half Full</b><br /> <br /> The name for this quilt came from the tumbler shapes that make up the front, and the expression, "Is the glass half empty or half full?" To me, this quilt is a gentle reminder to see the good in life and not worry about those things I cannot control. Easier said than done, but I really do want to be a glass half full kind of girl. :)<br /> <br /> This crib-size quilt is filled with bright and whimsical fabrics by Lotta Jansdotter from her new Echo line, and the design is inspired by the prints. For my next version of this quilt, I'd love to try a scrappy approach or create with some <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/pinkcastlefabrics/search?search_query=outfoxed&amp;search_submit=&amp;search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_6190532&amp;shopname=pinkcastlefabrics&amp;langid_override=-1" target="_blank">Outfoxed</a>. The background is Kona Ash and I am inspired by pops of color that peek through gray.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6832935381/" title="Glass Half Full Quilt - Orange Framed Tumbler by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Glass Half Full Quilt - Orange Framed Tumbler" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6832935381_73c0588517_z.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br /> I started working on this quilt in November, and the top came together in a weekend! The square quilting design I chose is the most detailed I have ever quilted, so developing the pattern and the quilting are the parts that took the longest.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6832934819/" title="Glass Half Full Quilt Front by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Glass Half Full Quilt Front" height="629" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6832934819_e17ed14477_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Glass Half Full</b></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Fabrics</i>: Echo by Lotta Jansdotter, Windham Fabrics + Kona</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Pattern</i>: <a href="http://meylah.com/lindsaysews/glass-half-full-quilt-pattern" target="_blank"><b></b></a><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=4085258980466019969&amp;postID=5237064343233906166" target="_blank">Original pattern available for purchase here</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Size</i>: 45" x 45"&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">If you do make this quilt or anything inspired by my blog, <br /> I'd love to see it in the new Lindsay Sews <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1881954@N20/" target="_blank">Flickr group!</a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQzZR4G3WQU/TzRrmjWdC9I/AAAAAAAACHQ/XgpJrZNLma8/s1600/Fabric+Requirements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQzZR4G3WQU/TzRrmjWdC9I/AAAAAAAACHQ/XgpJrZNLma8/s640/Fabric+Requirements.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2yq6w2xIL8/TzRrQDlqMQI/AAAAAAAACHI/XkVPBHFF5qk/s1600/Fabric+Requirements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /> </a></div><br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Special Thanks</b></span><br /> <br /> Thank you, thank you, thank you to my pattern testers <a href="http://junebugworld.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">June</a> and <a href="http://gretam.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Greta.</a> They each completed a unique spin on the <i>Glass Half Full</i> pattern to help me work out the kinks! <b>Check out their work <a href="http://junebugworld.blogspot.com/2012/02/glass-half-full-pattern-test.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://gretam.wordpress.com/2012/02/10/glass-half-full-quilt-by-lindsay-sews/" target="_blank">here.</a></b> <br /> <br /> Also a huge thanks to my friend and cover designer <a href="http://craftbuds.com/" target="_blank">Mary</a> and to <a href="http://inspiremegrey.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a> for helping me finalize and proofread the pattern. Couldn't have done it without you!<br /> <br /> <b><span style="font-size: large;">Giveaway! </span></b><br /> <br /> If you've made it this far and would like to win a copy of the pattern, just leave me a comment.<b> </b>(If you need some inspiration, go ahead and tell me if you've ever bought a PDF sewing pattern or not.) I'll pick one winner Monday via Random.org.<br /> <br /> My friend Sara is also giving away one of my patterns on her blog, so <a href="http://www.sewsweetness.com/2012/02/giveaway-glass-half-full-quilt-pattern.html" target="_blank">head on over to enter</a> for a second chance to win!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-5237064343233906166?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-79624978569544376362012-02-05T20:00:00.000-08:002012-02-05T20:00:36.052-08:002012-02-05T20:00:36.052-08:00Over the weekend, I stitched up some New York Beauty blocks and learned some new techniques in foundation piecing. It was so fun to see these come together, and incredibly rewarding!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6820386135/" title="FTLOS Swap by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="FTLOS Swap" height="422" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6820386135_b1a26fdab4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Then, I decided to turn one into a small item for a solids swap I'm in. It's a custom size to match my starting block, and I'm so happy with how this turned out!<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6827437465/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="New York Beauty Drawstring Bag by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="New York Beauty Drawstring Bag" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6827437465_6a7f0a8e53_z.jpg" width="429" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York Beauty block: <a href="http://www.lenzula.com/pattern/free/nyb.php" target="_blank">Pattern </a><br /> Lined Drawstring Bag Tutorial: <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/2011/10/lined-drawstring-bag-tutorial.html" target="_blank">In Color Order</a></td></tr> </tbody></table><br /> Also picked up some Amy Butler and Denyse Schmidt at 75% off at my local quilt shop... woooh! The lines were Black Friday-esque, but I brought some friends to keep me company.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/p480x480/409447_618713112363_56201083_32533616_1186509379_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/p480x480/409447_618713112363_56201083_32533616_1186509379_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Did you do any Superbowl sewing?</div><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-7962497856954437636?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-46880867831788583252012-02-01T08:35:00.000-08:002012-02-01T11:11:59.877-08:002012-02-01T11:11:59.877-08:00<div style="text-align: left;">For those of you who participated in the handmade ornament swap, you might be interested in this fun, year-long ornament challenge put together by my friends at <a href="http://inspiremegrey.blogspot.com/p/2012-ornament-challenge.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Grey.</a>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://inspiremegrey.blogspot.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15ZTg0VJHRE/TwEYYtYU-II/AAAAAAAAAIU/Xlg683scNjo/s210/ornamentchallenge.gif" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Each month, they'll pick a topic for a handmade, soft ornament and you're invited to share your version.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://inspiremegrey.blogspot.com/2012/01/love-12-months-of-ornaments-february.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4kM2G99c6o/TyIBaH-jG-I/AAAAAAAAAJY/oYL_vyKrqkQ/s320/rustic_heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> February's theme is "LOVE." You can jump it at any time, so <a href="http://inspiremegrey.blogspot.com/p/2012-ornament-challenge.html" target="_blank">head on over</a> to check it out!</div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ellisonlane.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Modern Mini Challenge" src="http://i1127.photobucket.com/albums/l623/ellisonlanequilts/buttons/modernminichallengebutton125.jpg" /></a></div><br /> You've most likely already heard, but there's a <a href="http://ellisonlane.blogspot.com/2012/01/challenge-and-contest-for-you.html" target="_blank">Modern Mini Challenge</a> going on over at Ellison Lane Quilts with some fabulous prizes, including Flea Market Fancy!<br /> <br /> <br /> <span class="title"> </span><br /> <span class="title"></span><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qt2ZLOo4pIA/TyhZ6KtEBoI/AAAAAAAACEI/OHg2O_wzPMA/s1600/Crafty+Links+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qt2ZLOo4pIA/TyhZ6KtEBoI/AAAAAAAACEI/OHg2O_wzPMA/s400/Crafty+Links+.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> And here are some more crafty links!</div><br /> <span class="title"><a href="http://sweatersurgery.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-crochet-chain-silver-lame.html"> Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery</a></span>:<span class="descr"> How to crochet a chain bracelet</span><br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://www.mixed-media-artist.com/2012/01/marbled-fabric-quilt-part-four.html">Mixed Media Artist</a></span>:<span class="descr"> Cyndi has finally finished her marbled fabric quilt. Yay!!</span><br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://craftside.typepad.com/craftside/z-jan-20-26-2012/">Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world:</a></span><span class="descr"> This week at Craftside there is a tutorial on how to make Steampunk photo hanger out of a knife and key, how to draw a wide-angle view, a unique quilted canopy photo, and a recipe for whole wheat cinnamon raisin bagels.</span>&nbsp; <br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://the-artful-crafter.blogspot.com/2011/08/awesome-mixed-media-earring-organizer.html">Eileen - The Artful Crafter</a></span>:<span class="descr"> Take a look at this awesome mixed media earring organizer.&nbsp; </span><br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://tammypowley.com/?p=5979">Crafty Princess Diaries</a></span>:<span class="descr"> The Crafty Princess reviews the Embroider Everything Workshop: The Beginner’s Guide written by Diana Rupp.</span><br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://aileensmusings.blogspot.com/2012/01/easy-peasy-felt-flowers.html">Aileen's Musings:</a> </span> <span class="descr">Aileen shows you how to make easy peasy felt flowers using her BIGKick.</span><br /> <br /> <span class="title"> <a href="http://familycrafts.about.com/b/2012/01/23/make-it-over-monday-craft-challenge-77.htm">About Family Crafts</a></span>:<span class="descr"> This week's craft challenge is all about the tooth fairy. Make and submit your own tooth fairy projects.</span> <span class="descr">&nbsp;</span> <br /> <span class="descr">&nbsp;</span> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-4688086783178858325?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-10175185646846924732012-01-29T19:22:00.000-08:002012-01-29T19:22:19.925-08:002012-01-29T19:22:19.925-08:00<a href="http://blackfordphotography.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">A friend</a> snapped a photo this morning, and I thought I'd share. That's my husband and me in the bulls-eye of this huddle. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/404328_337427632957636_154101601290241_1114230_1906640190_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/404328_337427632957636_154101601290241_1114230_1906640190_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> This is a snapshot of the church community that was formed eight years ago, and today we shared the news that Matt would be stepping down as the pastor to move on to full-time writing. It's been a privilege to have this group of people by our sides, and a wonderful feeling to feel the genuine love of the people around you when life brings change. Thank you for supporting us! Love you guys.<br /> <br /> In other news, remember the whirligig blocks I <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2012/01/whirligig-blocks-and-shirt.html" target="_blank">sent out</a> to the ladies of the 4x5 Bee? Well, my blocks have arrived, and they couldn't be more gorgeous. My colors are gray, yellow, and aqua, and all of the fabric choices are spot on. It's a wonderful feeling to get something in the mail that was hand-stitched for you by a friend.<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6786595089/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="4x5 4th Quarter Received by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="4x5 4th Quarter Received" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6786595089_f55757fea6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6644937047/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="4x5 Blocks 4th Qtr by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"></a> Top row: blocks from&nbsp; <a href="http://freshlypieced.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lee</a>, <a href="http://triostitchstudio.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Deb</a> &amp; <a href="http://thesometimesquilter.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy,</a>&nbsp; Bottom row: Blocks from Deb (an extra!), <a href="http://www.dontcallmebetsy.com/" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a>, and <a href="http://www.purplepandaquilts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lyanna</a>.</td></tr> </tbody></table><br /> And here they are with my bee blocks from the last quarter! A few more blocks, and I should be ready to stitch up a mean sampler quilt. I've really lucked out so far that half the blocks have a white background, and the other half have colored backgrounds. So perfect.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6786547837/" title="4x5 Bee 3rd and 4th Quarters Received by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="4x5 Bee 3rd and 4th Quarters Received" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6786547837_94e042c992_z.jpg" width="563" /></a></div><br /> I am so happy to have your friendship as a quilting and sewing community. Your support via comments, encouragement, and creative living has become a huge joy in my life. Have a lovely week!<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-1017518564684692473?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-29091554161361948812012-01-26T19:10:00.000-08:002012-01-26T19:10:39.604-08:002012-01-26T19:10:39.604-08:00The <a href="http://indymodernquiltguild.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Indy Modern Quilt Guild</a> had a challenge a few meetings ago where we each brought in a fat quarter in one of three colors, orange, yellow or aqua. We then tore them into strips and were asked to make something with whatever fabric we took.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6768708839/" title="Fabric Scraps by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Fabric Scraps" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6768708839_b3ea8f2fda_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> So, that was several months ago. You wanna know how often I'd thought about these strips? Maybe once.<br /> <br /> Until I saw the <a href="http://quiltytherapy.com/fat-quarter-tear-challenge/" target="_blank">cute baby quilt</a> whipped up by Tisha in these fabrics. It was so awesome! I knew I needed to revisit my fabrics again.<br /> <br /> So happy I did! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6768708521/" title="Patchwork Pleated Pillow by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Patchwork Pleated Pillow " height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6768708521_60655113a8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> To make the pleated boxes pillow, I started off sewing the fabric strips into a stacked books quilt block, and then I sliced, and sliced again into 3" squares. I took the most colorful squares, and interspersed them with all-white squares, for a total of four columns of 7 blocks each.<br /> <br /> I then cut a 3" strip (the fabric rows that are gathered below) and used it to join the columns. I borrowed the gathered idea from a technique I used making a dress last summer. You just iron messy pleats into the fabric, then sew straight lines to keep the gathers in place. The back is an envelope pillow back, my favorite way to make pillows.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6768708163/" title="Patchwork Pleated Pillow &amp; Murph by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Patchwork Pleated Pillow &amp; Murph" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6768708163_1e9f75c664_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> It was really liberating to jump right in and stitch up something without knowing the end result. I keep thinking there is some metaphor for life in there. :)<br /> <br /> This pillow is listed in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85854038/pleated-boxes-pillow-orange-yellow-and" target="_blank">Etsy shop.</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-2909155416136194881?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-7065211024974016802012-01-15T07:17:00.000-08:002012-01-15T07:17:04.844-08:002012-01-15T07:17:04.844-08:00Just getting back from vacation, and I'm getting ready for my long-awaited <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink" target="_blank">Heartsy</a> sale. It goes live tomorrow, Monday, January 16!<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6622750391/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Echino Fabric Earrings by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Echino Fabric Earrings" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6622750391_b2e75dab8a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Newly listed Echino earrings</td></tr> </tbody></table><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>For $10, you can buy a voucher to <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/" target="_blank">my shop</a> worth $23!<br /> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>For $10, Heartsy V.I.P. members can get a voucher worth $33.&nbsp;<i>&nbsp;</i></b></div><br /> <b></b><b> </b><br /> <b>To take advantage of this deal:</b><br /> <br /> 1. <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink" target="_blank">Sign up for Heartsy</a> (It's free!) <br /> <br /> 2. Purchase the deal on January 15 (for VIPs), 16 or 17. You'll receive instructions on how to redeem it at my <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>, with all proceeds going towards our adoption fund.<br /> <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>A sincere thanks to every person who has supported me in this earrings project! </b><br /> I could not have dreamed or done any of this without you.<b><br /> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=badges-heartsy" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="51" src="http://heartsy.me/images/affiliate/heartsy/468x60-heartsy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>&nbsp;</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Also a note on <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink" target="_blank">Heartsy:</a> I am a Heartsy V.I.P., and I highly recommend it for regular savings on handmade goodness<i>.</i> As a V.I.P., you'll also get early access to the sale, so you can buy a voucher TODAY (Sunday) before they sell out. You can also cancel the V.I.P. membership at any time if you find you are not using it.&nbsp; Happy browsing!</div><br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-706521102497401680?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-81138390753074136172012-01-10T11:25:00.000-08:002012-01-10T11:25:00.414-08:002012-01-10T11:25:00.414-08:00I'm on vacation this week, but thanks to scheduled posting, it appears that I am "here." Excited to be featured today at <a href="http://craft-you.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft.You.,</a> a new blog by the multi-talented creator/blogger/author Margot Potter!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://craft-you.blogspot.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZmMRRU9QeI/TrAdm4NgSNI/AAAAAAAAHKY/RXvC2BnUhqQ/s320/Brighter+Logo.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Margot had some great questions for me (and some doozies, including how I try to balance my creative hobbies with work and family time.) <a href="http://craft-you.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Click here to check out the Q and A.</a> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/photos-ak-ash1/v286/49/78/56201083/n56201083_30906254_4568.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/photos-ak-ash1/v286/49/78/56201083/n56201083_30906254_4568.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;">Thanks Margot!</div><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-8113839075307413617?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-42936318467770731572012-01-05T19:53:00.000-08:002012-01-05T19:53:22.501-08:002012-01-05T19:53:22.501-08:00I'm leaving for vacation tomorrow, so I'll be back to blogging in about a week! But before I left, I needed to finish up by blocks for the 4x5 Bee, which are due the day I get back. I decided to make some whirligigs, inspired by <a href="http://www.sewcraftyjess.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jessica's</a> blocks last quarter. These are time-consuming, but I think they turned out pretty cute, so I'd make this block again down the road.<br /> <br /> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody> <tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6644937047/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="4x5 Blocks 4th Qtr by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="4x5 Blocks 4th Qtr" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6644937047_0ca00f6998_z.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr> <tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clockwise from top: Blocks for <a href="http://www.dontcallmebetsy.com/" target="_blank">Elizabeth</a>, <a href="http://triostitchstudio.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Deb</a>, <a href="http://www.purplepandaquilts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lyanna</a>, <a href="http://freshlypieced.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lee</a> and <a href="http://thesometimesquilter.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wendy</a>.</td></tr> </tbody></table><br /> Earlier this week, I also tried out a sewing pattern I won during Celebrate Color. This is the <a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/MIP/Shearwater_Kaftan.html" target="_blank">Shearwater Kaftan</a> pattern by Make it Perfect, and I shared a little more about the process of making it over at <a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/how-to-transfer-a-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Craft Buds </a>earlier this week.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6636217911/" title="Shearwater Kaftan by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Shearwater Kaftan" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6636217911_a1ea8dbc49.jpg" width="500" />&nbsp;</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm going to make this shirt again in a looser fabric, but I first tried it out a lightweight poplin I got on clearance at Fabric.com. And sometime this year, I'm hoping to make the <a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/MIP/The_Honey_Blouse.html" target="_blank">Honey Blouse.</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Thanks for letting me share! I'm very thankful for this season of life, and thankful for all of you. Reading <a href="http://maureencracknellhandmade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">a friend's</a> blog, I was recently reminded of the very reality of life's ups and downs. Our lives may not always be perfect, or we may be going through a downright horrible season.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">In the midst of whatever you are feeling today, whether that's tired, joyful or many things in between, I hope you are encouraged by the ability to create. To create a quilt, a block, a pillow. A moment. A memory. We are all creators, and I am very thankful to be a part of this community of such caring and wonderful people.</div><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-4293631846777073157?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-10299550734540185742011-12-28T22:17:00.000-08:002011-12-29T15:33:23.176-08:002011-12-29T15:33:23.176-08:00I was reading <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/12/test.html" target="_blank">Jessica</a>'s blog the other day and <a href="http://www.freshlemonsquilts.com/?p=1519" target="_blank">Faith</a>'s blog tonight, and felt inspired to look back at my year in sewing. I didn't always get to spend as much time creating as I would have liked, but wow, I am really happy to look back and see the projects all together. <i>Did I make all that?</i><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6592164509/" title="2011 Wearables by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="2011 Wearables" height="512" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6592164509_bb0377242b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Thanks to your encouragement, I started a huge fabric earrings project, which is going to be a great ongoing fundraiser as we continue to work toward adopting. One thing I love about the online sewing community is the chance to grow and learn from each other, whether that is through tutorials, sew-alongs or following all of your lovely blogs. :) Some of the highlights of my year in sewing were:<br /> <ol><li>Sewing the Jamie Dress during the Sew-Along at Sew Sweetness.</li> <li>Being a part of the 12 Gifts of Christmas Blog Hop and the 12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt-Along.</li> <li>Joining the 4x5 Modern Bee.</li> <li>Making my Bottled Rainbows Quilt with Stitched in Color.</li> <li>Participating in two rounds of the Goodie Bag Swap on Flickr. </li> <li>Joining the Billboard Quilt-Along hosted by Oh, Fransson.</li> <li>Hosting Craft Book Month </li> <li>Taking part in two fabric challenges with the Indy Modern Quilt Guild. You ladies rock!</li> </ol><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6592166649/" title="2011 Quilts + Home Sewing by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="2011 Quilts + Home Sewing" height="512" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6592166649_1fd4e56af1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">I was also thankful to see some of my projects in print and continue to work with my friend Mary on our shared blog <a href="http://craftbuds.com/" target="_blank">Craft Buds</a>, a site we launched in March. In fact, we were able to share our tutorials and handmade business tips with readers in 176 countries. I'm blown away by the reach of the Internet and the lightning speed at which I can make something in my craft room and share it with someone across the globe.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">In 2012, I'm excited to . . .</div><ol><li> Write my first quilt pattern. In fact, this should be coming soon!</li> <li>Be a featured seller on Heartsy on 1/16.</li> <li>Host a sewing retreat for my quilt guild in March.</li> <li>Sew myself a couple shirts from my newly acquired Make it Perfect patterns.</li> <li>Make friends with my free-motion foot.</li> <li>Meet up with inspiring sewists (maybe you?) at Quilt Market and Sewing Summit.</li> <li>Create lovely quilts with the Mod Stitches Bee.</li> <li>Avoid last year's <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/07/so-this-girl-walks-into-er-and-some.html" target="_blank">sewing-related injuries</a>.</li> </ol><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/12/test.html" target="_blank">Jessica</a> invites you to link up your year-in-review posts. It doesn't matter if you've sewn two things or cranked out two hundred projects this year. We are all in this to learn and share what we love. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/2011/12/sewing-industry-reflections-predictions-what-do-you-think/" target="_blank">Sew Mama Sew</a> invites you to link up your sewing industry reflections &amp; predictions.<br /> <br /> And we're having a link party for all types of goals (crafting and personal) over at <a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/craft-buds-2011-year-in-review-link-party/" target="_blank">Craft Buds</a>. Join us!<br /> <br /> <b>Have you made some sewing or blogging goals for the new year?&nbsp; </b>I'd love to hear the ONE thing you are most looking forward to, whether it's an event, acquiring a new skill or finishing some works in progress. <br /> <br /> <br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-1029955073454018574?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-65966529454223936812011-12-27T22:03:00.000-08:002011-12-27T22:03:16.787-08:002011-12-27T22:03:16.787-08:00<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6586228035/" title="Collage1 by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Collage1" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6586228035_9a862445a1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> There's a fun contest going on over at <a href="http://quokkaquilts.blogspot.com/2011/12/bloggers-choice-fat-quarter-bundle.html">Quokka Quilts.</a> I chose my dream fabric bundle from Fat Quarter Shop, with some fun novelty prints mixed with solids and blenders! <a href="http://quokkaquilts.blogspot.com/2011/12/bloggers-choice-fat-quarter-bundle.html" target="_blank">Head on over</a> to make your own selections by January 15, and you may win your very own bundle.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-6596652945422393681?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-90087984585566812372011-12-24T11:44:00.000-08:002011-12-24T11:44:05.844-08:002011-12-24T11:44:05.844-08:00<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6565395351/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Christmas 2011 by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas 2011" height="528" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6565395351_c9438ec33d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6565409465/" title="Presents and Murph by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Presents and Murph" height="273" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6565409465_772fbf218b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp; </div><div style="text-align: center;">A non-traditional Christmas enchilada bar is in the works.</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Oreo balls and Applebee's blondie dessert are prepped and ready to go.</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"> And white elephant gifts are cleverly concealed.</div><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6565424191/" title="Banana Muffins and Mom's Kitchen by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Banana Muffins and Mom's Kitchen" height="360" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6565424191_97d77782e4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Joyful remembering the blessings of this year.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankful for family and warm friendships.</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy holidays to you and yours!</div><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-9008798458556681237?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-51201410250930442412011-12-16T20:22:00.000-08:002011-12-16T20:31:10.321-08:002011-12-16T20:31:10.321-08:00Tonight I sewed with some Anna Maria Horner voile, picked up on sale from the lovely <a href="http://www.modernfabricstudio.com/" target="_blank">Modern Fabric Studio</a>. And Rafflecopter chose a winner for earrings and Echo fabric scraps giveaway . . .<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6523961389/" title="Anna Maria Horner voile by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Anna Maria Horner voile" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6523961389_7d39f75076_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> <blockquote class="tr_bq"><b>#683 Erin,</b> who said: "I cant seem to get rafflecopter up. I would love to win this. The Lotta fabric is great. Thanks, Erin"</blockquote>About 20 of you were having trouble with the Rafflecopter form, so I entered entries as I received them. Congrats Erin! You'll get some earrings and some lovely Lotta fabric for your troubles!<br /> <br /> If you didn't get your fill of entering giveaways, there are some great ones still going on at the <a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/giveaway-roundup/" target="_blank">Craft Buds giveaway roundup.</a> Have a great weekend!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-5120141025093044241?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-21191236276689519882011-12-11T22:21:00.000-08:002011-12-11T22:26:17.679-08:002011-12-11T22:26:17.679-08:00This weekend I . . .<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6488283097/" title="Owl Ornament from Toni (swap) by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Owl Ornament from Toni (swap)" height="334" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6488283097_9129e8f638.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /> <br /> Found an owl-dorable stitched ornament in my mailbox, thanks to <a href="http://hoosiertoni.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Toni</a>! Don't you just want to eat him up? Toni drew my name in the ornament swap here on my blog, and she sent some delicious chocolates too! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6496715569/" title="The Tiny Bag by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="The Tiny Bag" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6496715569_22e7eec8a2.jpg" width="397" /></a><br /> <br /> Stitched up the smallest size of the <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/2011/11/lined-drawstring-bag-pattern.html">Lined Drawstring Bag pattern</a> by Jeni at In Color Order. Since it's so tiny, I used ribbon for the drawstring instead of fabric. Now, who will get this for Christmas...?<br /> <br /> Went to a fundraiser concert and two holiday parties, one of which was with the ladies of the Indy Modern Quilt Guild. Received another fab ornament (of our guild's logo!) and spent so much time snacking and chatting that I really didn't sew a thing. <br /> <br /> Stayed up late quilting, to make up for a weekend of not much sewing. How was your weekend?<br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b><br /> </b></u></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/12/giveaway-handmade-earrings-echo-fabric.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Looking for the giveaway?</b></u></span></a></div><br /> <b>Some Crafty Links </b><br /> <ul><li><a href="http://www.mixed-media-artist.com/2011/12/autumn-leaf-bouquet.html" target="_blank">Mixed Media Artist:</a> If you’ve still got any autumn leaves available, here’s a pretty idea for using them up!</li> <li><a href="http://sweatersurgery.blogspot.com/2011/12/how-to-make-recycled-sweater-with.html" target="_blank">Stefanie Girard’s Sweater Surgery</a>: How to make a recycled sweater wreath with a candy style bow.</li> <li><a href="http://familycrafts.about.com/b/2011/12/05/make-it-over-monday-craft-challenge-70.htm" target="_blank">About Family Crafts</a>: Play along with the current craft challenge and submit an angel craft or two.</li> <li><a href="http://carmicimicata.blogspot.com/2011/12/december-birthday-wishes.html" target="_blank">Carmi’s Art/Life World</a>: A post about remembering the December birthdays!</li> <li><a href="http://craft-you.blogspot.com/2011/12/craft-you-interview-heather-mann.html" target="_blank">Craft. You.</a>: This week on Craft. You.: Heather Mann of Dollar Store Crafts</li> <li><a href="http://craftside.typepad.com/craftside/z-dec-2-8-2011/" target="_blank">Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world</a>: This week at Craftside there is a fun new video on how to tint gesso with pastels by Traci Bunkers, tutorials on how to draw Christmas trees and poinsettias, tips on cleaning glassware, and a yummy recipe for vegan maple bacon doughnuts.</li> <li><a href="http://aileensmusings.blogspot.com/2011/12/glitzy-crystal-lacquer-christmas-trees.html" target="_blank">Aileen’s Musings</a>: Aileen not only offers you a fantabulous Glitzy bleached Christmas tree project but also a giveaway on her blog this week! </li> <li><a href="http://the-artful-crafter.blogspot.com/2011/10/yarn-bombing-in-dallas-for-opening-of.html" target="_blank">Eileen - The Artful Crafter</a>: Do you know about yarn bombing? Whimsical hand knit and crocheted art is circling the globe!</li> <li><span class="title"><a href="http://tammypowley.com/?p=5807">Crafty Princess Diaries:</a></span><span class="descr"> Tammy takes a look at a craft book packed full of projects. </span> </li> <li><a href="http://margotpottertheimpatientcrafter.blogspot.com/2011/12/retrofabulous-christmas-craftabration.html" target="_blank">Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter</a>: It’s a video! It’s two craft projects with instructions! It’s RETROFABULOUS! Yay!</li> </ul><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-2119123627668951988?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-30359104338059425132011-12-09T08:45:00.000-08:002011-12-16T20:17:05.234-08:002011-12-16T20:17:05.234-08:00I just love giveaways. Guess what? Someone is going to win any item from my shop, <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/" target="_blank" title="Lindsay Sews on Etsy">Lindsay Sews</a>! Pick out a trio of fabric button earrings or something else that catches your eye.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85808750/yellow-on-navy-lace-fabric-covered?ref=v1_other_2"><img alt="Assorted Button Earrings" class="aligncenter" height="260" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.285084487.jpg" title="Assorted Button Earrings" width="400" /></a></div><del></del><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /> <div style="text-align: left;">I'll also throw in some<b> fabric scraps</b> from a recent quilt - nearly<b> two charm packs of Echo by Lotta Jansdotter!</b> This fabric is yummy in every sense of the word.</div>&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSq32t2G-pA/Tr2zrrlH5KI/AAAAAAAAEZI/Q_Ojc1WazVc/s1600/Lotta_Jansdotter_Echo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dSq32t2G-pA/Tr2zrrlH5KI/AAAAAAAAEZI/Q_Ojc1WazVc/s320/Lotta_Jansdotter_Echo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;">Giveaway open worldwide through Friday, Dec. 16 at 8pm (EST). One winner will be chosen to receive both prizes! </div></div><br /> <del></del><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>To enter:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: maroon;"> </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strike>Fill out the Rafflecopter form below. It's easy!</strike><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Giveaway Closed&nbsp;</span></div><strike><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span><b><br /> </b></strike><br /> <script id="rafl-script" type="text/javascript"> RafflecopterSettings = { raffleID: 'MDdhZjNhZjNhZjIyOGE2M2EyYjk3ZjA3NDgwMzhmOjQ=' }; </script><br /> <script src="https://rafflecopter.ssl.dotcloud.com/static/js/widget/rafl-widget.js" type="text/javascript"> </script><br /> <noscript>&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://rafl.es/enable-js"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;You need javascript enabled to see this giveaway&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;.</noscript><br /> <strike><i>Only if you cannot fill out the Rafflecopter form with your browser,</i> please leave one comment with your e-mail address, and I'll fill out the form for you. :)</strike><br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sale!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div>Through December 15th (in plenty of time for shipping holiday orders), you can get 52% off everything in your cart with the coupon code MYOWNHEARTSY. These earrings and hair pins are perfect for stocking stuffers. <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/" target="_blank" title="Lindsay Sews on Etsy">Look around the shop</a>.<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><b>Enter more giveaways at:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/giveaway-roundup/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Craft Buds"><img alt="Craft Buds" height="100" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_28rjkKlVwNo/TXaULxtMcrI/AAAAAAAABhk/sX1GvXNlqt8/craft-buds-button.jpg" style="border: medium none;" width="100" /></a><a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/2011/11/giveaway-day-december-12/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="http://www.sewmamasew.com/blog2/november2011/GiveawayDay.jpg" width="100" /></a><a href="http://quiltinggallery.com/quilters-fun/quilters-blog-hop-party/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Blog Hop Party with Give-Aways" border="0" height="100" src="http://quiltinggallery.com/images/blog-hop-party-125.jpg" width="100" /></a></div><br /> <div align="center"></div><a href="http://quiltinggallery.com/quilters-fun/quilters-blog-hop-party/"></a> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-3035910433805942513?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-83240329202810642382011-12-08T18:59:00.000-08:002011-12-08T19:06:52.854-08:002011-12-08T19:06:52.854-08:00I'm excited to share a project that I've been keeping a secret for quite some time. It hasn't been a total secret, since I used to have it as one of my rotating banner images. But, since I've never blogged about this little guy, let me introduce you to Hugh Manatee.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/5158391093/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Manatee-Header by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Manatee-Header" height="208" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1120/5158391093_720f8b3f5d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Over a year ago, I was thinking about a plush toy I could design to submit to the sequel to one of my most beloved sewing books, <i>One Yard Wonders.</i> The call for submissions asked for project ideas designed using a variety of fabrics. I set out to design a project with fleece, and started to think about animal designs that were not currently out there.<br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qMLaZP0LNOw/TqrW0t1p3II/AAAAAAAACAY/tp1_o34_uiU/s1600/manatee.jpg" imageanchor="0" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qMLaZP0LNOw/TqrW0t1p3II/AAAAAAAACAY/tp1_o34_uiU/s640/manatee.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> After searching and searching the Internet, I did not find any sort of manatee sewing pattern that was larger than a desk toy. I was searching for a big, cuddly friend, like a snuggle pillow.<br /> &nbsp; </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">So I set out to design a manatee sewing pattern, with my trusty roll of teal-striped wrapping paper that I use for most of my pattern designs. My first manatee was in light gray, and I also made one in blue, which photographs better.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">The most difficult part of designing this pattern was getting the mouth and face to look wrinkled and adorable. I knew I wanted a comical, cute face rather than a true-to-life frowny manatee. I spent a lot of time arranging felt faces on the manatee, then snapping photos. Then I'd go back later and rearrange the eyes and nostrils until I loved it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/155034_183107658372574_180002538683086_731114_5918398_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/155034_183107658372574_180002538683086_731114_5918398_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Then it was time to ship him off, to be photographed for the book. I've heard he went to the book release party with the other 100 projects. </div><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/4614011290/" title="100_4071 by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="100_4071" height="481" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3346/4614011290_1d2e6f472c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here he is in the book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fabric-Fabric-One-Yard-Wonders-Projects/dp/1603425861"><i>Fabric-by-Fabric: One-Yard Wonders.</i></a> </div><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6479858205/" title="Hugh Manatee by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Hugh Manatee" height="344" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6479858205_d3e6d8d9eb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> And my original, with top hat!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6479855743/" title="My Project, Hugh Manatee by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="My Project, Hugh Manatee" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7155/6479855743_4cd13294e9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Next week, I'll tell you how you can win a copy of this new book. And if you don't win, please put this immediately on your holiday wish list! It's such a great value, with some really classy patterns for clothing, bags, home decor, toys, accessories, and lots more! You are going to LOVE it.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 0em; margin-right: 0em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-8324032920281064238?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-57020527310332778932011-12-05T18:51:00.000-08:002011-12-05T18:51:38.349-08:002011-12-05T18:51:38.349-08:00This weekend, I vended at a little craft show. Some friends popped by to see me . . . <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455727655/" title="Craft Show Friends by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Craft Show Friends" height="474" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6455727655_272a234170_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> I whipped up this colorful felt banner, which I'll keep around for future shows. I didn't get a great photo, but I displayed the earrings in muffin and mini muffin tins.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455620805/" title="Craft show banner by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Craft show banner" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6455620805_47eb332c2c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> To spice up my table, I stitched together some felt gift card holders (<a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/felt-flower-gift-card-holder/" target="_blank">tutorial here</a>) and felt flower hair clips. They were very quick and fun to make!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455627253/" title="Felt gift card holders by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Felt gift card holders" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6455627253_fd21f5c847_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> And here are some little ornaments I had left over from last year's show. I especially loved making the frowny-face mittens.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455614057/" title="Felt Ornaments by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Felt Ornaments" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6455614057_64a946120c_z.jpg" width="428" /></a><br /> <br /> My favorite little thing might be this record business card holder I picked up at a handmade gallery.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455625971/" title="Rosette bobby pins by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Rosette bobby pins" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6455625971_17ca45c6ed_z.jpg" width="428" /></a><br /> <br /> There are still 10 days left to shop <a href="http://lindsaysews.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Lindsay Sews on Etsy</a> and get a whopping 52% off with the code MYOWNHEARTSY. Promo ends 12/15, in time for me to ship orders before the holidays.<br /> <br /> A little note to say thanks to those of you who voted for my Jane Market Bag in the Celebrate Color contest. :) I won second place and picked out some pretty Heirloom voile in <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/swimbikequilt/5714628244/" target="_blank">this print.</a> Isn't it lovely?<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-5702052731033277893?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-20367073395081531992011-12-04T15:18:00.000-08:002011-12-04T15:18:22.671-08:002011-12-04T15:18:22.671-08:00<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455852049/" title="Gift Ideas for Guys by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Gift Ideas for Guys" height="214" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6455852049_a8a835efe8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Thanks for the guy-gift suggestions! Here's a little list for your reference, in case you find yourself scratching your head when it comes to gifts for men.<br /> <ul><li>Home brewing kit</li> <li> Pocket knife</li> <li>Electronics</li> <li>Board games (Dominion and Carcassone)</li> <li>Magazine subscriptions</li> <li>Golf accessories</li> <li>Handmade PJ pants</li> <li>Noise canceling headphones</li> <li>World War II memorabilia</li> <li>Knit viking hat&nbsp;</li> <li>Tools</li> <li>Music</li> <li>Car wash coupons</li> <li>Hand made stocking with gift cards&nbsp;</li> <li>Homemade New York-style cheesecakes</li> <li>Steampunk jewelry</li> <li>Clothing and guy accessories round-up at <a href="http://www.coletterie.com/style/holiday-gift-guide-for-the-guys" target="_blank">The Coletterie </a></li> </ul><br /> Out of 20 comments, the two winners of the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/12/lapel-stick-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Lapel Stick giveaway</a> are #1 and #15:<br /> <dl class="avatar-comment-indent" id="comments-block"><dt class="comment-author" id="c4932628007802440916"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/12968507050556926477" rel="nofollow">Scenic Pit Stops</a><span class="comm-num"><a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/12/lapel-stick-giveaway.html?showComment=1322752791931#c4932628007802440916" title="Comment Link"></a> </span> </dt> <dd class="comment-body" id="Blog1_cmt-4932628007802440916">Cool giveaway, thanks! My husband is really into history, especially war history (WW2, in particular), so I found some memorabilia on ebay and bid on them - old field manuals, propaganda, etc. I'm super excited to see his reaction! Good luck! </dd></dl><dl class="avatar-comment-indent" id="comments-block"><dt class="comment-author" id="c7679480889568525758"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/12475931662014505249" rel="nofollow">karen608</a><span class="comm-num"><a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/12/lapel-stick-giveaway.html?showComment=1322787678209#c7679480889568525758" title="Comment Link"></a> </span> </dt> <dd class="comment-body" id="Blog1_cmt-7679480889568525758">I give a little hand made stocking with gift cards in it to most men and also homemade New York style cheesecakes. &nbsp; </dd></dl>I'm headed to the post office tomorrow to send out my ornament for the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/11/sew-holiday-ornament-swap.html" target="_blank">Sew a Holiday Ornament Swap.</a> Jenelle has already received <a href="http://echinopsaster.blogspot.com/2011/12/mail-day.html" target="_blank">a beautiful ornament</a> in the mail, so pop on over to check it out!<br /> <br /> I had enjoyed a visit this weekend from my mom, and she helped me use my stash of fleece to make this sweet owl pillow. Now you see where I get my crafty side.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6455631415/" title="Crafting with mom: Owl pillow by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Crafting with mom: Owl pillow" height="503" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6455631415_3f4955b364_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> I'll post soon with some photos from the craft show this weekend. Can you believe Christmas is only three weeks away?<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-2036707339508153199?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-28499588018270992792011-12-01T07:11:00.000-08:002011-12-01T07:11:00.552-08:002011-12-01T07:11:00.552-08:00Last winter, I got the chance to review a new-to-me product called the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/02/product-review-giveaway-introducing.html" target="_blank">Lapel Stick.</a> It's a glue stick that's especially useful for sewists and would come in handy for applique projects like the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/07/finished-bottled-rainbows-quilt.html" target="_blank">Bottled Rainbows quilt.</a><br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5454236473_63b3414f79.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5454236473_63b3414f79.jpg" /></a></div><br /> You can use it for a variety of things! I used it when holding the zipper in place for my <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/04/rockin-new-dress-and-i-think-i-like.html" target="_blank">Jamie Dress. </a>It's also great for "pinning" down that first strip of a <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/10/squares-strings-circles.html" target="_blank">string quilt block.</a><br /> <br /> Would you like to give this product a try? The folks at Lapel Stick would like to give away this product to two of my readers! <b>Leave a comment telling me a gift idea for guys,</b> <b>and I'll choose two random winners on Sunday, 12/4.</b><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-2849958801827099279?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-3024458854591615262011-11-28T20:08:00.000-08:002011-11-28T20:08:45.480-08:002011-11-28T20:08:45.480-08:00Happy mail day for me! I told you already that I'd joined the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/goodiebagswap" target="_blank">Goodie Bag Swap</a> on Flickr. Well, my international parcel was waiting for me when I got home from work today! The package said open immediately, so I had to obey. I ripped open the envelope and . . .<br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6422425207/" title="Goodie Bag Swap Received! by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Goodie Bag Swap Received!" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6422425207_f52a6fbc45_z.jpg" width="461" /></a><br /> <br /> Found this lovely, roomy, pretty bag sewn from Joel Dewberry Heirloom! The pattern is the Practical Bag by Grand Revival, and it is the perfect tote to throw over your shoulder and grab packages for the post office (which is me a lot these days). This bag and fabric are just my style, and <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/p/celebrate-color.html" title="Celebrate Color">Vicky (</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/49053002@N02/6372096973/in/photostream" target="_blank">Patchwork Queen)</a> did such a great job on the details.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6422425959/" title="It's Reversible! Goodie Bag Swap Received by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="It's Reversible! Goodie Bag Swap Received" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6422425959_0d9a0c6150_z.jpg" width="428" /></a><br /> <br /> It's also reversible, which is super fun! The inside fabric is also from Heirloom, Blockprint Blossom. Love! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6422425531/" title="Goodie Bag and Scraps by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Goodie Bag and Scraps" height="421" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7145/6422425531_5772fdb3a6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Vicky is from the U.K. and included some fun extras like these London-inspired toothpicks (I was so tempted to put one in my sandwich), a sweet little owl ornament and a collection of fabric scraps from her stash. The owl is going on my Christmas tree, which is still in a box. Anyone else have this problem? I'm usually a Thanksgiving weekend tree decorator, but this year . . .<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="Back View: Jane Market Bag" height="200" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6031/6342263710_99e070c577_z.jpg" width="132" /><a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2011/11/vote-for-celebrate-color-november.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Celebrate Color"><img alt="Celebrate Color" height="150" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-MybSYPxNptg/TlZf4LsF1xI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/lmGAEeGXD_M/Celebrate%252520Color%252520simple%252520photo%252520150.jpg" style="border: medium none;" width="150" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> Earlier today I found out that the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/11/jane-market-bag.html" target="_blank">Jane Market Bag</a> I made for my secret partner is one of the Wearables finalists for Celebrate Color. There are some fabulous projects from many of my blog friends, so I'm really happy for all of them to be recognized and have a chance at the prizes! You can <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2011/11/vote-for-celebrate-color-november.html" target="_blank">vote for your favorites</a> in all four categories through Wednesday.&nbsp;</div>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you had a happy Thanksgiving!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-302445885459161526?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-65251790206212136232011-11-26T08:09:00.000-08:002011-11-26T08:09:47.155-08:002011-11-26T08:09:47.155-08:00I just found an awesome new blog called Moments with Love, with a <a href="http://momentswithlove.blogspot.com/2011/11/shop-with-purpose.html" target="_blank">recent post</a> on making your holiday gifts matter. I sent this to a co-worker, who told me she was looking to make a difference through her Christmas shopping. What a wonderful, thoughtful goal! <br /> <br /> Anyhow, my hedgehog bobby pins are featured here, but all of the shop are supporting a non-profit, ministry or adoption fundraiser. You can check out her wonderful round-up of gift ideas <a href="http://here./">here.</a><br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XECj0CY81pQ/TsnuQg_AsPI/AAAAAAAADJ0/C0JxgrW1O-U/s640/shop+with+purpose--the+littles..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XECj0CY81pQ/TsnuQg_AsPI/AAAAAAAADJ0/C0JxgrW1O-U/s640/shop+with+purpose--the+littles..jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">In other news, Jaime is hosting an adoption fundraiser and giveaway over at <a href="http://littlebirdcreations.blogspot.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-adoption-and-orphan-care.html" target="_blank">Chirpings of a Little Bird</a> through Dec. 2. I've donated a set of button earrings as one of the prizes, and you can enter to win one of three lots of handmade goodness by donating $5 or more to support a wonderful organization called Orphans at Play.&nbsp; You could win:</div><br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXuc02mUtVU/TsqZeNjlHfI/AAAAAAAACDY/VKWhb-yHd5I/s400/DSCF0136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXuc02mUtVU/TsqZeNjlHfI/AAAAAAAACDY/VKWhb-yHd5I/s400/DSCF0136.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">This bit of cuteness...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ExfuczeYF4g/TsqZDWPQMNI/AAAAAAAACDA/h8aFVtZPAD0/s1600/DSCF9634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ExfuczeYF4g/TsqZDWPQMNI/AAAAAAAACDA/h8aFVtZPAD0/s400/DSCF9634.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Or some adorable handmade accessories. Lots and lots of them! Low entries right now, so you'll have a great chance of winning while supporting a great cause. <a href="http://littlebirdcreations.blogspot.com/2011/11/thanksgiving-adoption-and-orphan-care.html" target="_blank">Enter to win!</a></div><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-6525179020621213623?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-66901403774724856872011-11-21T18:54:00.000-08:002011-11-21T18:54:09.607-08:002011-11-21T18:54:09.607-08:00Several weeks ago, I applied to be a featured seller on <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink">Heartsy.</a> For those of you who haven't heard of it, Heartsy is like Groupon for handmade goods, where you can score deals at 55% to 65% off beautiful little gifts. <br /> <br /> I get their daily deal e-mails, have made several purchases through Heartsy, and loved the products so much that I knew this is the company I'd want to work with for promoting and selling my handmade button earrings for the <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/p/adoption-fundraiser-order-handmade.html" target="_blank">adoption fundraiser.</a><br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVwNpsLzbCc/TsQFVnmUt-I/AAAAAAAACAk/brWxi6X_Q-w/s1600/DSC_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVwNpsLzbCc/TsQFVnmUt-I/AAAAAAAACAk/brWxi6X_Q-w/s640/DSC_0282.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> The good news is, my deal is going to be featured on Heartsy, so you can get half off all products in my shop! The bad news is, this isn't going to be happening until January, so I'm kind of missing out on the holiday shopping season. I understand they are booked solid though, and it's not Hearty's fault. <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size: large;"><b>So, I am having a secret sale for readers of my blog . . .</b></span><br /> <br /> . . . because I want to give you the same deal that Heartsy buyers will get, in case you need to think about holiday gifts! Just use the coupon code MYOWNHEARTSY for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lindsaysews" target="_blank">52% off everything in my shop.</a> <br /> <br /> I'll leave this code up through December 12 (that's 3 weeks from today), so I can ship out holiday orders in time. <b>Feel free to share </b>this coupon code with friends and family! I'm just looking to move these earrings and start making another round. <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.280264919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.280264919.jpg" /></a></div><br /> I have earrings in two sections: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lindsaysews?section_id=10683448" target="_blank">stainless steel</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lindsaysews?section_id=7211379" target="_blank">iron posts,</a> and the steel are better if you know someone who typically has metal allergies. I personally like the iron posts, because they feel more substantial! I've also added <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lindsaysews?section_id=10687768" target="_blank">bobby pins</a> to my shop.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.286911498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.286911498.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;">And while supplies last, get a cute pillow box gift wrapping included with your earrings or bobby pins order!</div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.264850098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.264850098.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> I still do love Heartsy a lot, and I'm even a V.I.P. member, which means I get special deals on handmade things. If you've never heard of it or don't know what I'm talking about, you can <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink">sign up for Heartsy e-mails via this link,</a> and you'll earn <b>$5 towards your first purchase,</b> no strings attached. You can use it to buy my earrings in January if you'd like, or some other lovely handmade holiday gifts! <i>And I'll make a Heartsy bonus of $10 for each friend that <a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=plink">signs up</a> and makes a purchase.</i><br /> <br /> So generous, right?!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://heartsy.me/users/153155/referral?c=badges-heartsy"><img alt="Heartsy - Exclusive deals on fabulous handmade designer items at members-only prices." height="60" src="http://heartsy.me/images/affiliate/heartsy/468x60-heartsy.jpg" width="468" /></a></div><br /> If you are interested in knowing more about how Heartsy works and you think it might work for your handmade business, I'd be happy to answer any questions. <br /> <br /> <br /> <center><script src="http://www.etsy.com/assets/js/etsy_mini_shop.js" type="text/javascript"> </script><script type="text/javascript"> new Etsy.Mini(5914612,'gallery',4,2,1,'http://www.etsy.com'); </script></center><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-6690140377472485687?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-10704005301194017962011-11-17T04:48:00.000-08:002011-11-17T04:51:37.196-08:002011-11-17T04:51:37.196-08:00<b> </b><i> </i><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sewsweetness.com/2011/10/12-days-of-christmas-sampler-quilt.html"><img alt="12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along" class="aligncenter" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gix-KImkT3M/ToE9Azl8LGI/AAAAAAAAA4U/aAwZqisR16w/s1600/12+Days+of+Christmas+button.jpg" title="12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along" width="244" /></a></div><br /> I'm participating in a quilting blog hop, the <a href="http://www.sewsweetness.com/2011/10/12-days-of-christmas-sampler-quilt.html" target="_blank" title="12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along">12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along.</a> It's hosted by my friend Sara at <a href="http://www.sewsweetness.com/2011/10/12-days-of-christmas-sampler-quilt.html" target="_blank" title="12 Days of Christmas Sample Quilt Along Tutorials">Sew Sweetness</a>!<br /> <br /> I've posted my block tutorial over at my other blog <a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/noel-paper-pieced-quilt-block/" target="_blank">Craft Buds</a>, so please stop by to check it out!<br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6248826550/" title="DSC_0044 by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><br /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/noel-paper-pieced-quilt-block/" title="DSC_0050 by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0050" height="472" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6096/6248301173_34dfe94a6c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;">Also, there's still time to enter the <b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/giveaway-modern-fabric-studio/" target="_blank" title="Modern Fabric Studio giveaway">fabric giveaway</a></b> from Modern Fabric Studio! The shop is offering a great pre-Thanksgiving <b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/giveaway-modern-fabric-studio/" target="_blank" title="Modern Fabric Studio giveaway">fabric sale</a></b>, too. </div><br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Amy Butler Lark" class="aligncenter" height="300" src="http://www.modernfabricstudio.com/components/com_fpss/images/lark.jpg" title="Amy Butler Lark" width="500" /></div><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-1070400530119401796?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-13565876426695932122011-11-13T16:29:00.000-08:002011-11-13T16:29:36.023-08:002011-11-13T16:29:36.023-08:00Lots of sewing projects in the works, but it's been a little while since I've posted a finish. Well, tonight I'm happy to report that I finished my tote for the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/goodiebagswap/" target="_blank">Goodie Bag Swap!</a> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6341516903/" title="Jane Market Bag, front view by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Jane Market Bag, front view" height="500" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6039/6341516903_7345506d7e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> I chose Anna Maria Horner for the pocket and center panels (Summer Totem in Tart from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/pinkcastlefabrics" target="_blank">Pink Castle Fabrics</a>) and more Loulouthi for the handles. The linen print on the sides is by Yoshiko Jinzenji (from <a href="http://shop.sewmodernonline.com/" target="_blank">Sew Modern</a>). I lined it with Kona pale flesh, which is what we'll all have in a few months. Hah!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6342263710/" title="Back View: Jane Market Bag by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Back View: Jane Market Bag" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6031/6342263710_99e070c577_z.jpg" width="428" /></a><br /> <br /> This was my first time making the <a href="http://rosylittlethings.com/janemarketbagpattern.html" target="_blank">Jane Market Bag</a>. I really like this pattern and it is very easy to follow. However, I made a few modifications so the bag would hold its shape. I added thick interfacing (Pellon 808) to everything but the lining and stitched pintucks around <i>all</i> edges of the bag, including the bottom. With these changes, I didn't need to add any cardboard to the bag bottom, because it stays pretty boxy on its own.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6341516119/" title="Jane Market Bag, bottom view by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Jane Market Bag, bottom view" height="428" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6041/6341516119_1c483fdb43_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> I also added piping above the pocket on both sides. My secret swap partner is very into simple, functional totes, so I hope she digs this! <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6341516511/" title="Goodie Bag Swap: Finished! by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Goodie Bag Swap: Finished!" height="631" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6051/6341516511_71800c718b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> I really like how these fabrics play off each other. The bold, feminine florals can really pair well with the strong, masculine lines of the Japanese linen. Who knew?<br /> <br /> Linking up to <a href="http://www.canoeridgecreations.com/" target="_blank">Sew Modern Monday,</a> <a href="http://quiltstory.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Fabric Tuesday</a> and <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/p/celebrate-color.html" target="_blank">Celebrate Color!</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-1356587642669593212?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-84672214873910707062011-11-11T08:16:00.000-08:002011-11-11T08:16:58.242-08:002011-11-11T08:16:58.242-08:00<div style="text-align: center;">Did you hear? You can link up a mini quilt, new or old, for a chance to win some fab prizes.</div><br /> <br /> <center><a href="http://www.mommyandbeyond.blogspot.com/search/label/mini%20quilt%20challenge" target="_blank"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dm80QuCmR4M/Tq4sL1an5hI/AAAAAAAADgM/-7hkzC0kbHk/s1600/miniquiltS%2526T-button.jpg" /></a></center><br /> <br /> I've decided to enter an oldie but a goodie into this mini quilt challenge. This is my Kona solids mini quilt, inspired by Rachael's larger version from the <a href="http://indymodernquiltguild.blogspot.com/2011/05/robert-kaufman-solids-challenge-rachael.html" target="_blank">Indy Modern Quilt Guild challenge.</a> I love this mini, and it's hanging on my wall!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/5996149625/" title="Cathedral windows mini quilt by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Cathedral windows mini quilt" height="481" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/5996149625_5bb8638cd8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /> <br /> Also, a little <a href="http://www.lindsaysews.com/2011/11/sew-holiday-ornament-swap.html" target="_blank">Christmas ornament swap</a> update. With sign-ups now closed, we have 15 participants (yay!), so I'll be e-mailing you with partner assignments. Looking forward to this simple swap!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lindsaysews/6307468353/" title="Handmade Ornament Inspiration by Lindsay Sews {@CraftBuds}, on Flickr"><img alt="Handmade Ornament Inspiration" height="240" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6229/6307468353_2d9f43942b_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://sweatersurgery.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-to-make-recycled-zipper-ring.html">Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">See how to make a recycled zipper ring.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://the-artful-crafter.blogspot.com/2011/06/use-3d-clay-accents-to-adorn-decoupage.html">Eileen - The Artful Crafter</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">Here's how to use 3D clay accents to make your decoupage projects pop.&nbsp; </span> <span class="descr"><br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://www.mixed-media-artist.com/2011/10/printed-silks.html">Mixed Media Artist</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">Cyndi has used some low-tech tools to make some fun printed pieces of silk for a future project.</span>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://aileensmusings.blogspot.com/2011/11/phenomenal-mini-star-ornaments.html">Aileen's Musings</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">Aileen had a phenomenon happen while creating mini star ornaments from some microwave clay.&nbsp; </span>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://familycrafts.about.com/b/2011/10/31/make-it-over-monday-craft-challenge-65.htm">About Family Crafts</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">This current craft challenge is all about vacations. Do you have a vacation related craft you can submit?</span> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://lampworkdiva.blogspot.com/2011/11/on-my-bookshelf-stitch-workshop-right.html">Cindy Gimbrone Beads</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">Cindy tries her hand at right angle weave and reviews Stitch Workshop: Right-Angle Weave published by Kalmach Books.</span>&nbsp; </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://tammypowley.com/?p=5703">Crafty Princess Diaries</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">Tammy reviews a new book out called Craft Activism and gives you the inside scoop about how you can read the first chapter for free.</span>&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="title"> <a href="http://craftside.typepad.com/craftside/z-oct-28-nov-3-2011/">Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at a crafty world</a> </span> <br /> <span class="descr">This week at Craftside there is a tutorial on how to sunprint with paint on fabric, how to identify torch flames, a recipe for vegan white and milk chocolate and how to design the size and shape of your eyebrows.</span>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /> </div><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-8467221487391070706?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4085258980466019969.post-71400186033928332892011-11-08T07:53:00.000-08:002011-11-08T07:53:00.809-08:002011-11-08T07:53:00.809-08:00It's no secret that I love craft books.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/250x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/A/m/Amy_Butler_s_Style_Stitches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/250x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/A/m/Amy_Butler_s_Style_Stitches.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><br /> Well, <a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/2011/11/04/win-up-to-500-of-chronicle-books-for-you-a-friend-and-your-favorite-charity/">Chronicle Books</a> is having a huge contest where you can enter to win $500 worth of books! Bloggers can blog about their wish list (mine are all crafty books, of course), and everyone else can enter to win just by commenting on that post. So, you should <a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/2011/11/04/win-up-to-500-of-chronicle-books-for-you-a-friend-and-your-favorite-charity/">blog your own list</a> or comment on this post to win. Brilliant contest idea.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/HappyHaulidays11_webbadge1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/HappyHaulidays11_webbadge1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> If I won $500 worth of Chronicle Books, I'd probably choose...<br /> <ol><li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/cake-pops-by-bakerella.html?utm_source=CB_Blog&amp;utm_medium=Text_Link&amp;utm_campaign=Sidebar">Cake Pops</a></li> <li> <a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/holiday-crafting-baking-with-kids.html">Holiday Crafting &amp; Baking with Kids</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/pattern-making.html">Pattern Making</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/stencil-201.html">Stencil 201</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/the-liberty-book-of-home-sewing.html">The Liberty Book of Home Sewing</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/fashion-design-third-edition.html">Fashion Design Third Edition</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/world-of-geekcraft.html">World of Geekcraft</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/amy-butler-s-style-stitches.html">Amy Butler's Style Stitches</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/amy-butler-s-little-stitches-for-little-ones-autographed-copy.html">Amy Butler's Little Stitches for Little Ones</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/lotta-jansdotter-stencils.html">Lotta Jansdotter Stencil</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/titles/art-design/craft/appliqu-your-way.html">Applique Your Way</a></li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,7630/path,1-4-22/title,Handmade-Hellos/">Handmade Hellos: Fresh Greeting Card Projects from First-Rate Crafters</a></li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,7084/path,1-4-22/title,Lotta-Prints/">Lotta Prints: How to Print With Anything, From Potatoes to Linoleum</a>&nbsp; </li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,7129/path,1-4-22/title,The-Pillow-Book/">The Pillow Book: Over 25 Simple-to-Sew Patterns for Every Room and Every Mood</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,5966/path,1-4-22/title,Sublime-Stitching/">Sublime Stitching: Hundreds of Hip Embroidery Patterns and How-To</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,5136/path,1-4-22/title,Denyse-Schmidt-Quilts/">Denyse Schmidt Quilts: 30 Colorful Quilt and Patchwork Projects</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,8921/path,1-4-22/title,Every-Days-a-Holiday/">Every Day's a Holiday: Year-Round Crafting with Kids</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,9018/path,1-4-22/title,Artful-Accessories/">Artful Accessories: Create your own headbands, barrettes, bags, belts, and other masterpieces!</a>&nbsp;</li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,7882/path,1-4-22/title,Lotta-Jansdotters-Simple-Sewing-for-Baby/">Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing for Baby: 24 Easy Projects for Newborns to Toddlers</a></li> <li><a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,8893/path,1-4-22/title,Little-Book-of-Letterpress/">Little Book of Letterpress</a><i>&nbsp;</i> </li> </ol>My total comes to $494.28. Are there any craft books on your Christmas wish list?<br /> <br /> <a class="plist" href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/index/main,book-info/store,books/products_id,8893/path,1-4-22/title,Little-Book-of-Letterpress/"><b></b></a><br /> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AmiJ4QrWG-M/TRGEKNuiqMI/AAAAAAAABkE/c0tbx10GEFM/s1600/sigpost2.jpeg" /></a> <br /> <div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /> <div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.craftbuds.com/">Craft Buds</a> and <a href="http://lindsaysews.bigcartel.com/">My Shop</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/4085258980466019969-7140018603392833289?l=www.lindsaysews.com' alt='' /></div>Lindsay Connerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11280837364298961726noreply@blogger.com52