Shwin&Shwin

Terra's Treasures {cute patterns}

2012-03-03T08:17:00.002-08:00

We get the honor of introducing our newest sponsor today!

Her shop has some adorable patterns for boys and girls!

Like this super cute bib:

What's not to love about a country western bib? I LOVE that little pocket!

Need clothing? How about a cute and basic tee pattern?

Cute comfortable and so many possibilities for both boys and girls to wear.

I am also loving these cute Monkey Pants pattern.

How cute is that bum? and the cute little heart... so many ideas!

Don't worry if sewing isn't your thing she also makes a few sets to sell.

Like this adorable sailor set perfect for a cute little boy. I LOVE that anchor print! SO stinking cute!

So go pay a visit to Terra's Treasures you won't be sorry!

Instagram Friday {Waffles, dogs and potties}

2012-03-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Instagram Friday!

A little glimpse of life beyond sewing and crafting...

This week started out like any other week... Abbey and daddy making waffles. They do this nearly every weekend. While I am not a waffle eater myself I love that the two of them have that special time together. (Jude helps with the eating :)

We had a zoo at our house over the weekend (and most of the week) we were dog sitting a great dane (her behind made it in the photo) and another american eskimo, so in total we had 4 dogs and a cat hanging out with us this weekend. It was crazy but the weather was great and the kids loved having the animals around so it was pretty fun.

Abbey got a little cozy with her "long lost" favorite toy the sprinkler... she can't wait for summer.

Abbey potty trained herself over the weekend it was sweet. She just woke up and said she wanted underwear and no diapers, so I packed all the diapers away and we never looked back. She made it Saturday and Sunday accident free and things were looking pretty. She earned her reward (the potty dolly ironic isn't it?) Then Monday she flat out refused to go potty and we had several accidents. It's been a long week I should have known it was "too easy" to have her just do it herself. I think we are back on track now, no accidents but "going potty" is quite an ordeal... (oh and those darling leg warmers? there will be a post soon)

The kids take turns pushing each other in the car, I always laugh a little when it is Abbey's turn to push.

My little "diva" (and you should know I hate the word diva) when it came time to pick up her brother from school she decided she couldn't leave the house until SHE was ready, and she had to do it by herself. So she grabbed her shades slipped on her boots and was ready to go looking quite hip.

Lastly we are finishing out the week wonderfully. With a big bowl of fruit! I love fruit, seriously all of it. I saw this bowl of fruit at the store and I knew I wouldn't even look at the overpriced tag I would just get it because it looked so good and I go through a serious fruit withdrawal every winter since it is hard to get good fruit here when it is not in season. This fruit? it was worth every penny. The kids thought so to but pennies don't mean much to them :)

So how was your week?

Fabric, buttons, and bows oh my...

2012-03-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for something fun??? Starting Monday (March 5th) we are going to have a boys sew along! If you don't have a boy it's ok we are making pants and they are pretty easily gender neutral. We will be making cargo style pants that roll up with button tabs. Perfect for Spring and summer. I don't have the finished picture yet because it is my upcoming project. (like as soon as those sweet little heads hit the pillow) I found the fabric I want now I just need to pick out the buttons. But incase you want to pick out your fabric choices this weekend I thought I would give you a heads up for supplies.

I am using a denim chambray. Lightweight and breathable. Any denim, cotton, twill (like a khaki) will be fine. I will be making a size 5 (with a little extra length) for my little guy so I bought a yard and 1/4 of the chambray. I wanted to be on the safe side since I would be making pockets and what not, but a yard may have done it. You will also need 5 buttons, some elastic (I use 3/8 inch non roll) and some lightweight cotton for lining. Not much maybe 1/4 a yard. I also got a little embroidery floss to add some details but we will go over all of that when the time comes. So get ready for pattern making on Monday! Or if the idea of pattern making scares you we will be altering a simple pants pattern like the Nowhere man pants pattern, so if you rather you can use that pattern as your starting off point and we will alter from there.

In other happy news I finally found it! There was a print I was dreaming about in my sleep and I haven't been able to find it. Then like it was meant to be I was wondering around Joann Fabrics (as I often do) when tucked away out of place was this beautiful, perfect fabric. The print the feel the lightweight airy texture, it was everything I wanted. I am beyond thrilled and can't wait to use it!

I also completed finding all the fabrics for my summer collection. Finally feeling super inspired!

One piece is done I am just working on the pattern. I am pretty thrilled with them! So if you are a facebook fan keep on eye out for pattern testers coming up, I won't need very many and the spots go really fast, but the summer collection will hopefully be done in the next few weeks... (hopefully)

An embroidered tee

2012-02-29T11:25:00.001-08:00

When I was in 4th grade our school had explore, which simply meant that for the last class of the day we got to sign up for an activity that would explore a talent. They had tons to choose from, juggling, drawing, calligraphy, and embroidery (there were more too but I don't remember them all) Can you guess what I choose? Yep even in 4th grade I had a love affair with needles and thread. I made a pillow case with an embroidered monkey on it. I LOVED that class and I still today LOVE all things embroidery. Have you ever noticed if something is embroidered it seems to cost twice as much? Ridiculous! Well not really if it is done by hand but most of the time it is just a machine. So why pay for it when you can do it yourself? Catch up on a show one evening and embroider away. (this tee was done in about 3 hours)

Then you can be proud of your handy work, and well, just love the pop of interest. Who would have thought this was a 2 dollar tee? (or you could make your own, but this cute tee was just too cheap)

Embroidery adds the perfect pop to an an outfit! So let's get started shall we? I have a few tips for adding embroidery to a tee (you know since it stretches)

Start with interfacing. Lightweight interfacing has one direction stretch to it so you don't ruin the stretch of the tee but it does offer stability to the tee while you are stitching. You don't want the tee to get all warped when you are adding your design. I use the fusible kind since it is easy peasy. Just iron it down to the inside of the shirt where you want your design to be. (I traced the interfacing so you could see where since white on white is hard to see. Also I reversed sides later incase you think your mind is playing tricks on you it's not)

Next draw, print, or trace your designs on to some paper. Words don't have to be reversed since you will trace them on the shirt from behind. I drew out some flowers and then cut out the designs.You could get some supplies at Office Depot crafts and print, cut and design it on paper.

Place the paper cutouts behind the shirt and trace them onto the front using a fabric marker or pencil. (anything that the marks will come off) I like the disappearing ink because if I change my mind about the design a little water erases the marks. With the white shirt I could see my designs through the shirt quite well but if it is hard to see you can hold it up to a window to see the designs better.

Next use a hoop. You don't want to stretch your shirt to get it in the hoop you just want it to be in the hoop nice and snug so the fabric doesn't pucker as you stitch. Move the hoop as you go making sure it is always snug but not overly stretched.

Next let's talk thread. You CAN embroider with any thread really. I use embroidery floss usually and there is a difference. My favorite to use whenever I am going to do a satin stitch (filling in a design with really close stitches) is the cotton perle.

It is a little more exspensive then the run of the mill floss but the strands are thicker and twisted together better so the finished look is a little better in my opinion.

Then stitch away. I used a combination of stitches (shown in this post if you need help) The only stitch that wasn't shown was the satin stitch which is basically the same as the back stitch only they are next to each other side by side you just go back and forth close together to fill in the design (like you would if you were coloring) In no time at all your design will be done.

since I always wonder what the back should look like I thought I would show you, that for the most part the back looks like the front, especially for the satin stitch.

That's all there is to it. A cute new tee.

all perfect for a spring outfit... now if only spring would come.

Abbey got upset during the photo shoot. She wanted me to take a picture of her "bracelet" (which is actually a hair thing she wears on her wrist) not a picture of her shirt.

So here you go. A photo shoot decided by Abbey...
Got to love her.

Link Party #9

2012-02-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Ready for another great link party??

You guys always share the best things! Which is great because everyone needs a little inspiration sometimes. Especially when I spend the day sitting in my craft room staring at the piles of fabric feeling zero inspiration. Something finally "clicked" late last night... but I had a week of projects started, then stopped when I just didn't "feel" it. Hopefully I am out of the rut now. It happens you know? So it was great to see such amazing links last week!

Like this one from Nest full of eggs. She always shares the most beautiful and thoughtfully put together clothing. This darling outfit is no exception. I LOVE that skirt.

A couple of craft addicts shared these cute headbands she made. I love that they are made from scrapbook flowers. So pretty.

Last Melly Sews shared the cutest ensemble for her kids. I love the his and hers henleys with that hounds tooth print... so cute. The fact that the pants are made from the nowhere man pants pattern is also awesome, you need to check out the back pocket detail, they are so cute! It is nice finding supplies in Walmart fabrics and designing outfits.

Thanks for sharing so many great projects! I can't wait to see what you have come up with this week!

New to link parties? That's totally fine here's what you have to do:

Find a entry on your blog that you want to link up.

It can be ANYTHING (unless it's an ad or something let's keep it spam free)

Say it is a great new project you just made and have been dying to share it with the crafting world.

the link should look something like this:

http://(your blog adress/website)/(the post you want to link).html

Linking to the post is the easiest way for people to get back to that post.

Then click where it says "click here to enter"

follow the steps to link your post and create a title, and select your picture.

Keep in mind the picture will be small thumbnail so pick a picture that shows it off the best.

Lastly if you were so kind to add our button to your page or post, or where every you store your link party things that would be super cool. You don't have to use the button to link up, it's just there for you if you can't live without it.

cool? cool. Let's get the party started!

The "Shwin" Skirt by Ruthie Pearl

2012-02-27T07:00:00.001-08:00

Ok as an awesome reader (yes you) you know how awesome our readers are. Well Lauren of Ruthie Pearl is no exception. When she saw this post (that happened to feature my first attempt at crocheting something since learning to knit and crochet over the summer)she saw that while I am getting into knitting and crocheting I have NO idea how to create a pattern or read on for that matter. Lauren does! Not only can she create a knit patter but they are beautiful fresh modern and amazing! (unlike so many others which is why I mainly sew) So she emailed me with a great idea to collaborate on a design for a knit skirt and she would create the pattern for it. Not only that but she offered to make one for Abbey (you know since I am still learning and I would likely have it done sometime next year :) So we had lots of fun emails where the creative and cute Lauren put together a dream skirt!

Big fat rugby stripes, pockets for treasures, buttons (since everything is better with buttons) and it is in Abbey's favorite color... purple! Although I am already dreaming it up in every color of the rainbow!

I LOVE everything about how the skirt turned out! It is so comfy and soft! The size was perfect for now and with the soft stretchy waistband she has room to grow. It would be great for the cooler spring weather with the thick tights of legging underneath or come summer even worn plain, since it is a skirt it wouldn't be overwhelmingly warm.

I love layering is with different designs and patterns, the bold stripes add that perfect mix-matched look that kids look so dang cute wearing.

I just picked up the sweater she is wearing at a clearance sale at the GAP (my favorite place to find a bargain I LOVE their clothes)I have to say I kind of love the knit wear from head to toe. Makes me want to snuggle with her.

Funny story...So during the photo shoot, I thought we would have a little "fun" you know something other than getting dresses going in the backyard snapping pictures and then being done. So we went and picked out some balloons and we were headed to the park with the mountains in the background amateur photographer me was excited I had it all planned out in my mind. Then we got to the park... there was mud everywhere. I mean everywhere. So back home it was to the backyard, (you know because I am NOT a real photographer and the park was the only idea I had) the balloons were great anyway I love kids and balloons in pictures. Well about 10 pictures in Abbey figured out how to get the knot untied of her wrist... and just like that the balloons were gone. (a few pictures before they were gone you can see that the slip knot had slipped up so it was super loose on her wrist, something I did not notice until editing the pictures later) It was a fun idea anyway.

So If you want to see more details about the skirt from the lovely lady who designed it (and knit it) Visit her post about it here
If you want to follow a new and cute blog about knitting, life as a momma, and many other cute things follow along with Ruthie Pearl
Seriously you should check out her other patterns... they are so dang cute!

And if you are like me and dying over the "Shwin Skirt" (and the awesome name ha!) Check out the pattern for yourself!
Here on Craftsy
or
Here on Raverly

Instagram Friday {on Saturday} and a winner!

2012-02-25T08:39:00.001-08:00

First real quick we have a winner from the KK Children's Designs designs!

Kendra L. who said: I pinned 2 of her dresses! Love Tree and Summer Totem.

Thanks for pinning! You will be getting an email from me shortly!

Now welcome to Instagram Friday {on Saturday}

A little glimpse into life beyond crafting...

Jude goes to Preschool 3 days a week for 2 and a half hours and I love the "girl time" it provides. Hanging out with Abbey is such a joy to hang out with.

Jude thinks he finally figured out how to wink. It's more of a "double wink blink" but he looks tough when he tries.

Abbey LOVES to play with toys I love when I catch a glimpse of her imagination. Like when I see her little "family" cruising around in the mini van. My favorite is the monster dad and cowgirl mom.

I made some banana bread this week then I introduced it to the new bananas since I am sure that will be the fate of the new bananas as well. (no complaints from the kids of course)

The weather treated us to some lovely weather perfect for tree pruning. Now we are ready for spring to fill the tree with blossoms.

Abbey was a pirate this week. Among other dress up items she likes to be, the pirate is my favorite.

Playroom Reveal {Before and After}

2012-02-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Well today is the day of the "big reveal"

I am even sharing before pictures but let's not judge. The playroom had zero effort put towards it since we moved in until now. Which was fairly obvious as to why the kids didn't really like to play in the the playroom. It was pretty bad.

As you can see plain white walls. (let's pretend they don't look pink in the picture) Toys just scattered about. The kids playroom is in the basement and even though it does get a lot of sunlight from the window it is still a basement and that always has a "creepy" feel to me, but since the basement is fully finished and accounts for 1/2 the square footage of the house I really wanted the playroom to be as cheerful and welcoming as any other room in the house. So the walls got a fresh coat of paint in a pale earthy green. (with a small splash of white as an accent above the wall to wall shelf)

Yes those are kids in Pajamas, (yes Jude's pajama's are 3 sizes too small have you ever tired to tell a 4 year old he has out grown something?) yes that was also improved in the "after" picture where they are fully dressed. The new curtains and removal of the cardboard moving boxes as toy storage were a huge improvement right off the bat.

Now all the toys are stored neatly away in bins, dolls went in a new toy box, baby toys were stored away and toys they no longer play with or broke were thrown away or donated. (I think we got rid of half their toys in the process it was good :) The closet has floor to ceiling cubbies that store all of their books (sorry no pictures of the closet) The closet also stores the large play-sets (other than the doll house) that can be pulled out when in use and put away when they are done. So here are the details:

I used my silhouette machine A LOT I went a little vinyl happy, but it was fun and I like the outcome. I created labels for all the drawers so they clearly knows what belongs where. It also helps learn reading along the way which is a plus. I put the alphabet on the wall just above their slide, and I put their names above their desks to clearly mark their workplace.

One side of the room is their art and creating side. We hung a wall to wall shelf. I cut out vehicle shapes using the silhouette, I just cut them from colored cardstock and stuck them on to a piece of white paper. Stuck them in some frames and placed them layered on the shelf. We hung a wire with clips just below the shelf so they could hang their art. (as soon as it was hung Jude filled it up with art) That is also where I hung the sight words, which we work on at the desks. On the shelf I also added a cross stitch picture I made from one of my kids favorite books "Mary had a little Ham" I sketched it out from a drawing in the book. I may share a tutorial on that someday but I made this one long before the blog was around.

On the opposite side of the room is their "play area" it is also the wall with the wall mural, playful and fun.

So in the end I had one goal in mind for the playroom, a place my kids could create, play, and learn. I wanted it to be bright, colorful and inviting. Since it is now one of the most favorite rooms in the house (by everyone) I would say it was a success. Thanks for letting me share the playroom!

Tutorials from Playroom Series:
Butterfly Pillow
Beetle Pillow
Sight Words Printables
Wall Mural

"Be Nice" Wall Mural

2012-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Playroom Makeover Series

In case you missed the other posts from the playroom makeover check them out here:

Butterfly Specimen Art Pillow

Free Sight Words Printables

Beetles Specimen Art Pillow

Today I thought I would share the last piece before the "tour" of the playroom makeover. There was a large blank wall that I wanted to make a statement on. I wanted the kids room to be fun and playful and whimsical. The "be nice" is from a rule we have in our family and probably the thing the kids hear the most throughout the day.

The playful butterflies? They were inspired by all the pretty butterflies I found popping up on pintrest (which have also been popping up all over blogland good minds must think alike) and they tied in really well with the specimen art pillows which pulled everything together and added a fun pop of interest on the wall. I love the Girly aspect of the butterflies with the masculine color or the "Be Nice". So here is a quick breakdown of how I did it.

For the "Be Nice" I bought paper mache letters. Then using acrylic paint I painted the front and sides of each letter. Let them dry and then I hung them on the wall with 3D foam Stickers, about 4-6 on each letter but 2 would likely do the trick just fine. I don't know how rough they would be on the wall if you are thinking of removing them sometime but I plan on leaving mine up for a good while. If you are worried about it you could use a 3M command strip or something close to that. The letters are super light weight so they hang well.

Next for the Butterflies. I used my Silhouette to cut out the butterflies since it was easy peasy. You could cut them out with scissors just the same. Fold the paper in half and you will have a symmetrical butterfly. I used a variety of colors and sizes using all heavy cardstock. I like the textured paper found at the craft store. It added a great element. Then I folded up both wings so the middle was flat.

I stuck on a foam sticker and they were good to go on the wall. Nice and secure. Much like the letters if you are thinking you will want to remove them, or if they are temporary then you could use tape or 3m command products that are easily removable.

I just scattered them around mixing up the colors as I went. I love the 3D effect from the wall.

As they take off across the wall.

It makes me happy to see, and I love the very simple reminder to just "Be Nice"

Tomorrow will be the "grand tour" of the new playroom. See you then!

Beetle Specimen Art Pillow

2012-02-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Remember the Butterfly Specimen Art Pillow from Monday? Well naturally I needed to make a pillow for Jude as well. I wanted the pillows to "go together" enough so I was thinking about what kind of specimen art I could do when my mom suggested Beetles. Well since I am fairly obviously a Beatles fan, I was of course on board with the idea of another beetle. Plus Jude loves all things creepy crawly. The bright colors make them a little less creepy.

The pillow was made the same way as the butterfly pillow. If you need a refresher I cut out 3 21X21 inches squares from a plain white cotton. Also one 15X15 inch square from interfacing and then ironed the interfacing onto the center of one square for the front piece.

Then for the beetles I cut out some legs a body (with a curved top for the head) and two wings. I cut out 6 from 6 different colors and same with all the pieces then I mixed and matched them.

Stack all the pieces on top of each other and sew some wide zig-zags through the wings to get the texture the wings usually have.

Then line up all the beetles and sew them in place right down the middle of the wings. (yes we will pretend they are sewn in place in the picture even if they are not)

Next for the embroidery. Here are some tips. I printed out the words that I wanted to embroider on. In this case the numbers and some general information about beetles since Jude likes to learn about anything.

Then with the paper behind the fabric I used a disappearing ink pen to trace the words on.

A tip for better embroider is to use a hoop. They make the fabric nice and tight so your stitched can be tight without puckering the fabric.

For the basic back stitch that I use to trace the letters you come up where you want the stitch to start and then stitch back to the last hole. Simple as that.

The other thing I use is a french knot. Pull the thread up where you want the knot.

Wrap the threat around the tip of the needle 2 or more times. The more you wrap it the larger the knot will be.

Then while holding the thread that is coming up tight push the needle through right next to the place the thread came up. Then the front should be done.

For the back fold the end under an inch and sew in place. Then it down again 5 inches.

Then with underside of the fold (the side with the flap) facing down overlap both back pieces at the fold so that they make a square that is the same size as the front piece.

Place the front piece face side down and sew all around the edges.

Clip the corners and then turn the pillow case right side out. You will have a nice little envelope style pillow case. Put the pillow form in and you are done.

A cute little pillow perfect for a boy.

With creepy crawly bugs that are cute enough they kind of make me smile.

Goes perfectly with the Butterfly pillow to add some fun color and education to the kids playroom.

And the kids love the big oversized plush pillows.

Perfect for curling up with a good book.

Link Party #8

2012-02-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Link Party #8!

Before we jump right in here are a few of my favorites from last week. (which was full of awesome posts!)

SewVery shared this beautiful tote she made. I love the fabric combination, it is simply lovely.

Blooms and Bugs shared this adorable skirt that looks so comfy! I love the orange and blue and white together.

A Jennuine Life shared this great shoe rescue. Not only is it such a great fix I love the shoes and I even want some for myself!

Thanks for sharing so many great projects! I can't wait to see what you have come up with this week!

New to link parties? That's totally fine here's what you have to do:

Find a entry on your blog that you want to link up.

It can be ANYTHING (unless it's an ad or something let's keep it spam free)

Say it is a great new project you just made and have been dying to share it with the crafting world.

the link should look something like this:

http://(your blog adress/website)/(the post you want to link).html

Linking to the post is the easiest way for people to get back to that post.

Then click where it says "click here to enter"

follow the steps to link your post and create a title, and select your picture.

Keep in mind the picture will be small thumbnail so pick a picture that shows it off the best.

cool? cool. Let's get the party started!

Sight Words {free printables}

2012-02-21T06:30:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about the kids playroom is that there is a desk for each kid to color, paint, play with play-doh and Learn to read and write. (since I like things to be educational as well) One of the things I made for Jude were these sheets that have some sight words for him to learn to read, rhyme, and write the words.

We use the sheets to:
Read the words
Practice writing the words
Play "spelling bee" games
Learn to rhyme and say other words that rhyme

We have a reward system for spelling words right and Jude loves earning stickers for getting the words right. He really just loves learning. Most of the words are things they are teaching him in Preschool and then we are just working on them more at home. Jude thrives on learning new things so we spend a lot of time learning everything and anything he is interested in reading being a big one.

So if you are interested in the sight word printables to use in your home I made them into a PDF file. There are only 4 since that is what we are using right now.

Here is the link:
Sight Words PDF

Also is teaching your toddlers something you are interested in? I have thought about sharing more of the things we do at home for teaching purposes. If you are interested I would love to share.

Butterfly Specimen Art Pillow

2012-02-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

I finally finished the kids playroom and I am so excited to share how it all came together. So there will be a few posts on that this week. My goals for the playroom were simple. I wanted a fun bright and colorful space that they could play in, create in and learn in. Something created for boys and girls since they would both play in there together and something that could grow with them. So when I was thinking of creating a reading nook of some sort I thought of a couch, or padded area but space is an issue since the room isn't huge. I decided on large pillows that they could cuddle up with and they could easily be used in other ways later. Then I decided to make specimen art pillows which could be educational, and cute at the same time. So here is how I made this one.

I used a pillow that was 20X20 inches. Then using simple white cotton I cut out 3 squares that were 21X21 inches. 2 are for the back and 1 is for the front. I also used heavy weight interfacing (the fusible kind) I used interfacing to add stability to the cotton since I would be embroidering and stitching the butterflies on. Then I ironed the interfacing onto the center of the square.

Next for the butterflies. I made a template by folding paper in half and free hand cutting half a butterfly on the fold. Then I had a symmetrical butterfly as my guide. I also cut out some leaf like shapes in 3 different sizes as well as some small circles. For my butterflies I cut out 6 butterflies in 6 colors I mixed and matched the colors for the small pieces. To the pieces to the butterfly I simply sewed a line through the middle. You can barely see the thread when it is done so I didn't worry about matching it up.

Then line up the butterflies on the square (the interfacing should be on the back) Rearrange the butterflies until you like the placement then make a small marking to where they are.

Use a ruler to draw a line marking where each butterfly will be, the ruler can make sure that you have everything lined up even. (oh and I used a disappearing ink pen to make the lines which go away in 24 hours)

Then sew each butterfly on at the marking by sewing right down the middle.

Next with the disappearing ink pen I wrote the number above the butterfly and the color below. It worked well with the specimen style as well as being a great educational tool for Abbey with the colors and numbers. Then I used a basic backstitch to embroider the words.

Then for the back of the pillow I turned under the top edge and stitched it in place. Then fold that edge down again a few inches. (about 5 inches) Do this for both back pieces.

Then with the fold face down place the other folded piece face down on top. Line them up so that they create a square the size of the front when overlapped.

Then place the front piece face down and sew around the edges. Clip the corners then turn the pillow case right side out.

Put the pillow in through the folds in the back.

That's all there is too it. (I forgot to mention that when I added the embroidery to the words I added the middle of the butterfly and antenna)

Simple fun and cute. They made the perfect addition to the play room and I love the 3D effect of the butterfly wings. Coming up later this week is the version I made for Jude, something cute and perfect for a boy.

KK Children's Designs Giveaway!

2012-02-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

A Big Saturday Welcome to our newest sponsor!

KK Children's Designs!

They are a lovely shop on etsy that focuses on delivering simple and elegant dresses for little ones. I love the array of A-line style dresses they offer in a rather impressive fabric selection. And as I am a sucker for buttons you know I melt when I see the fun bright pop of button at the shoulder. So shall we take a mini tour?

First up is this fun and bright print "What's your number?" Ready to go out the door in size 6 months. I love the fabric by Alexander Henry and how cute would this look on a little girl? Ah I want one! (and a little girl too :)

Next up since I am a sucker for simplicity you know I couldn't pass up a beautifully simply dress like the "Gorgeous red with Yellow flowers" I love the design the colors and everything! So modern and fresh.

They also have a fun selection of other items like this beautiful cape. Perfect for the Spring weather coming up and how cute would this look over an easter dress?

How about this beautiful dress? I love the colors and the style, available in sizes 5-8 it is perfect for the older girls in your life.

So do you want to know the best part? KK Children's Designs is giving away one of their darling dresses a lucky reader! The reader will win their choice of size of the Summer Totem in Grapefruit Dress {Fabric by Anna Maria Horner} (pictured above) The sizes available are 3M-4T.

To Enter:
Visit KK Children's Designs on Etsy and leave a comment here about your favorite item in their shop. Leave your email address in your comment as well so I can contact the winner.

Bonus Entry:
Pin something from their shop leave a comment saying you did so.

Giveaway will be open until February 24th, 2012 {ending at midnight} The winner will then be selected and announced on the blog February 25th.

Goodluck!

Instagram Friday {Snow and Valentines}

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Instagram Friday a glimpse of life beyond sewing and crafting.

We got a "mini blizzard" last weekend. The snow stayed on the ground for about 24 hours before melting away and the kids were so excited they went out to play in it before it was gone.

Our Neighbor has ducks. Yes ducks. She has a whole slew of them. Which is fine they keep the kids and the cat very entertained when they wander over to our front yard.

Jude got all ready for his first Valentines Day party at school.

He wrote his name on each card all by himself. Even if half way through he asked if he could right something else instead. Obviously he is not cut out to be famous he gets sick of signing his name too quickly. :)

My "instagram valentine" to my husband... "won't you bee mine"
He said yes.

The kids grandparents gave the family a new game for Valentines. I think Jude loved it the most (he won)

I also have been working on finishing the kids playroom. It is nearly complete... of course I always say that and then another week goes by... but really it is almost done and I am loving it. (as are the kids)

So how was your week?

The Maggie Dress {from Maggie Mae Pattern}

2012-02-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have a favorite pattern... There I said it. The Maggie Mae tunic Pattern has been so much fun to remix (not to mention the few tunics she already had from the pattern) Don't worry though I have re-mix ideas for the other patterns too. This dress is one of my favorites but Abbey was in no mood for a photo shoot, so bare with me for the 3 pictures I could get.

I paired it with the fluffy belt from this dress. The fabric was a perfect match so it just kind of happened. The perfect dress for the transition into spring.

So to make the dress follow the pattern and instructions for Front and Back A piece. Then for the Front and Back B piece we will make two of the same size pieces. To do this cut both out on a fold but move the piece over from the edge several inches. Then cut the side at and angle for a slight flair. Cut the piece the length you want the dress (keep in mind you will have the Front and Back A piece sewn to the top)

Then you should have something like this. Front and Back A and Front and Back B.

Finish the Front and Back A as instructed in the pattern. Then sew the Front and Back B as if it were the Skirt piece of the pattern. (pockets included) Then you should have the skirt piece and top bodice with buttons.

Gather the top of the skirt piece and sew it right sides together to the bodice.

Then flip it right side out and top stitch. Hem the bottom and you are done.

Easy as one two three? You will be whipping these out in no time.

There are still buttons in the back so you should be able to easily get it on and off. (the fit over my daughters head was just a touch snug, so you could always make the neck opening larger if you needed.)

There you be a cute little dress (and let's ignore the wrinkle in the bottom, slub linen has a mind of it's own most days)

I Love You {3 times} Tee

2012-02-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Valentines day may be over. There was a tee that didn't make the blog before Valentines day, but that is fine since it is not actually a valentines top, it just has hearts on it. You see I have a thing with my kids, where they say "I love you" I say "I love you more" and then we both say "I love you most"

So for my perfect Navy and White striped tee I added three hearts each getting larger in size.

Making the tee was really easy. I made it like I do all my go to tunics, following this tutorial. Only this time instead of using measurements I used a shirt as my guide. The shirt was a touch small so I made the sleeves longer and I added length. This made the tunic a slimmer fit.

Then when the top is unfolded width wise it looks just like a tee. There will still be a fold along the top. So the front and back are one piece. I also cut a facing for the neck, and then I finished the top just like the other tutorial only I skipped the cuffs at the sleeves.

Then I cut out three hearts from wool felt. I simply stitched around the edge to sew them to the top.

Then the top was done.

Simple, quick, and cute. I love the reminder of our love.

It may be time for one in my size...

Link Party #7

2012-02-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to this weeks Link Party!

And a happy Valentines Day to you all! We are finally all healthy and Jude returned to preschool today just in time for the Valentines day party! So in honor of today, and loving everything that was linked up last week I thought I would share a few of my favorite Valentines day projects.

Sew Country Chick shared this super cute tunic that was an upcycle too boot! I love the whole style of this and that it can be worn well beyond today.

Me Sew Crazy shared her cute Valentine holder... yep totally whipped up a non ruffled version for Jude to collect his Valentines in. I love this! Especially since Jude didn't make a box at school... what's that all about?

Vixen Made shared this adorable Valentines day skirt. I love the sheer overlay that would probably be great as a lace or any other sheer as well.

Thanks for sharing so many great projects! I can't wait to see what you have come up with this week!

New to link parties? That's totally fine here's what you have to do:

Find a entry on your blog that you want to link up.

It can be ANYTHING (unless it's an ad or something let's keep it spam free)

Say it is a great new project you just made and have been dying to share it with the crafting world.

the link should look something like this:

http://(your blog adress/website)/(the post you want to link).html

Linking to the post is the easiest way for people to get back to that post.

Then click where it says "click here to enter"

follow the steps to link your post and create a title, and select your picture.

Keep in mind the picture will be small thumbnail so pick a picture that shows it off the best.

cool? cool. Let's get the party started!

Maggie Button Down {from Maggie Mae Pattern}

2012-02-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

So I love when you have a pattern that can be remixed in many different ways to make a totally different garment. Like when I made Abbey a winter Jacket using the Abbey Jacket Pattern (a fall and spring jacket) So with the new spring patterns here I thought I would put them to use to make a few different things. Like a button down top for example. A perfect little staple to any little girls wardrobe.

I love the curved yoke from the Maggie Mae tunic, and the sweet little gathered top and buttons... well it's love.

So to make your own I used the Maggie Mae Tunic Piece Front and Back A. For the Larger sizes (like 7-10) You may want to cut the curved part shorter so it ends just under the arm opening since the actual tunic has a longer yoke than you may want for the button down top. Cut out as instructed for Front and Back A and then for the second piece I used some craft paper to draw out a piece (yes my kids drew on it) Follow the curve of the Front and Back A piece and extend it out a few inches so you have some extra room for the gather. Then Draw the "fold" line to match the fold line on the Front and Back A piece. Then you want the piece to be as long as you want the top to be and I did mine pretty straight with a slight curve along the bottom edge. Then cut 2 not on a fold at the full size of the pattern piece and then match up the fold line to the fold in the fabric and cut on on the fold.

Follow the instructions from the pattern to complete the top portion. Then I added some embroidery. (which if I had thought about it before hand I would have added the embroidery before I sewed the facing to the front, that way the back of the embroidery would have been covered but I decided to add it after being inspired by Danielle's PR&P final project, which was after I had the top part all sewn, but worth it anyway) Then take the back shirt piece (the one cut on the fold) and gather a few inches of the middle together so that it is the same size at the curved piece.

Sew them right sides together. Fit the curve as you sew which should be fairly easy since it is gathered and should curve very well.

Then press it flat and top stitch the seam.

Gather the front pieces the same way gathering a few inches in the middle so it fits the curved edge. Then sew right sides together. Press and top stitch like you did before.

Then with right sides together sew the sides together from the arm opening down.

Then turn right side out. Turn front edge under by 1/8 inch. Then turn it in again 3/4 inch. Top stitch all around the edges.

Sew button holes on one side and buttons on the other. Then hem the bottom edge and you are done.

A cute little top front and back.

Which can actually be worn forward... with the sweet gather in the back and buttons down the front...

or it can be worn backward for a different look and buttons down the back (one of my favorite things) Either way you can enjoy your top and be ready for spring...

Even if the weather is dishing you out the first heavy snow of the season... It was a lovely day.

Instagram Friday

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another Instagram Friday!

A glimpse of life beyond the crafting and sewing.

Jude provided a lovely rainbow display when he lined his cars up by color.

The kids playroom underwent a transformation last weekend. It was a long time coming (and will be shared soon) Let's just say Abbey loves the slide. She spends most of her day there.

They have been enjoying the new art space even if they have trouble sitting in the "right" spot.

Jude drew a boat in which he told me was "super fast it has two motors!" I love seeing his drawings.

It was Abbey's turn to be sick and miserable this week (besides the flu bug that hit us all) Broke my heart sitting in the Dr.'s with a sad little girl with a high fever and a fear of the Dr.

Remember the great days of childhood where you could build a fortress of solitude out of cereal boxes in the morning? Abbey has discovered this joy and asks for the boxes as soon as the cereal is poured.

I made my husband promise that this would be the last 4 legged addition to the family. He has a big heart and when he came across the 6 year old welsh corgi up for adoption he just had to take him home. So sweet mellow Colonel Sampson joined our family. Everyone seems to be happy with the decision.

I love catching Abbey around the house "sneaking" a view of the ipad. The kids have been banned from electronics since the playroom was finished and so Abbey will sneak it as often as possible.

So how was your week?

Gathered top with a yoke

2012-02-09T08:41:00.000-08:00

Remember the love is in the air top? I shared the applique tricks the other day for a guest post on icandy. Now today I thought I would share the top. Easy top with a sweet gather along a yoke.

Start with a basic pattern for a tee. (need help drafting? Check this post)For the front piece cut it where you would like the yoke to be.

When you are cutting out the yoke part add a seam allowance to the bottom.

for the bottom half cut it several inches over from the edge to make it wider.

Then here are all the pieces. For help with neck facing check this post here. I also added pockets to this top (which got left out of the tutorial so info on adding the pockets see this post here)

Then we will start by sewing the Front A (yoke piece) to the Back at the shoulders. Then also sew the facing pieces together at the shoulders.

Then with right sides together sew the facing to the bodice pieces along the neckline.

Then turn the neck facing to the inside and top stitch in place. Then for the Front B piece gather the top of the piece and sew it right sides together to the Front A piece.

Top stitch you you like.

Sadly this is the last picture for the tutorial (I am not sure what happened) SO I will just talk you through it. Fit the sleeves in the arm opening and sew right sides together. Then add the pockets in the side if you are having pockets. Place them the same place for the front and back. (follow the steps here for sewing the pockets) Then place the top right sides together matching up the front and back at the side seams and sleeves. Sew from the sleeve to the armpit and then down the sides. Turn top right side out and hem the sleeves and bottom edge. Then you are done. Embellish how you want or leave it plain.

Check out the post on adding the hearts and love here

I {heart} You tee

2012-02-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Looking for the perfect Valentines day gift? Check out Dolce Dreams. As seen on MarthaStewart.com she has the most beautiful and perfect gifts for the people you love!

So yesterday we were over at icandy for pink week, and we shared something that wasn't pink... so naturally today's top is pink. If you have been around the blog for awhile you may have noticed that pink is not my color. Abbey is getting older now and she has decided that she likes pink. So when I came across the super stretchy comfy pink and white knit at Joanns, I decided I had to finally make Abbey something pink. (I am a good mom that way) I also made a style that was a nice loose tunic so it will fit her for a while, since she grows like a weed.

Perfect for Valentines Day with cute little hearts and shiny glam.

Everyone needs a little jewelry for the holiday. It is also perfect for any other time.

So the tunic is basically made like this one with a few changes along the way. Start with the fold at the top and the folded in half.

Then for this one I used a tee shirt as my guide. I wanted the top to be gathered a bit at the neckline so I moved the tee over from the edge, and down a tad from the shoulder. Then cut the neckline.

Next I cut the sleeve and then I had the top angle a bit down.

Then using the tee as my guide I made a half circle neckline piece. (I switched the stripes for the neckline) Cut out 4 half circles.

Then to stabilize the neckline I used fusible interfacing. Fusible interfacing has stretch one direction so I cut it so the stretch was up and down and then pressed it on to the back of all the half circles.

Then sew 2 together at the shoulders. repeat with the other 2 so you have 2 circles.

Then sew them right sides together. Use a stretch stitch if the neckline needs to stretch to fit.

Then with right sides together sew one circle to the neckline. (gather or pleat to fit)

Then turn it to the right side out and press the neckline piece to the inside. Using a double needle sew along the edge of the circle and the shirt.

Next I cut out some hearts from some white knit and I ironed some interfacing to the back.

I sewed them on with the double needle as well so it kind of gathers up the edge of the knit.

A tip for hemming the sleeves if you use a small strip of interfacing on the edge of the hem allowing the stretch to go up and down it makes the knit easier to sew.

Turn it under and sew with a double needle to get a nice finish.

Then with the top right sides together (sorry no picture of that) Sew from the sleeve edge to the armpit and down the sides. Then turn the top right side out.

I finished with some jewels from the jewelry section of the craft store. I sewed each one on by them selves so if one breaks they don't all fall off. Then since it is a choking hazard I was sure to use 5 strand embroidery floss and stitched them on several times to secure. I also added a little heart to the neck line.

Then you have a cute little tee for your little one. You know so they can take up dog training...

or dancing...

Or just looking sweet in pink. Enjoy!

Link Party #6 and a guest post

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's time to party, link party style! Before we begin the ladies over at icandy homemade are hosting a fun series this week, Pink week! Celebrating all things valentines related. So I made a sweet little love is in the air top.

Details how to make the actual top with gathered front will come later maybe next week.

So you can pop over and visit us at icandy and then link up for this weeks party!
We are excited to see what you have for us this week!

So are you ready to link up what you made this week? We can't wait to see it!

New to link parties? That's totally fine here's what you have to do:

Find a entry on your blog that you want to link up.

It can be ANYTHING (unless it's an ad or something let's keep it spam free)

Say it is a great new project you just made and have been dying to share it with the crafting world.

the link should look something like this:

http://(your blog adress/website)/(the post you want to link).html

Linking to the post is the easiest way for people to get back to that post.

Then click where it says "click here to enter"

follow the steps to link your post and create a title, and select your picture.

Keep in mind the picture will be small thumbnail so pick a picture that shows it off the best.

cool? cool. Let's get the party started!

Instagram Friday

2012-02-03T10:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to instagram Friday a glimpse at life beyond sewing and crafting...

The week started with my "get well" flower being in full bloom. A great way to start the week since the cyst ruptured and I have been well on my way to recovery and off pain meds. (so if you emailed me and never heard back emails suffered the most so I am sorry if you didn't get a response)

I was able to get out an celebrate an anniversary with the love of my life. Even if our getaway will wait for another day.

Abbey our little toy player. It's so fun watching her play with toys (animals are her favorites) She was a trooper on a trip to Joann's and found the only toy in the store a tub of farm animals, naturally I had to say yes. Jude never played with toys (excepts cars and trains from time to time) I kind of love watching Abbey play with her little imagination.

Pepper is our neighborhood watch dog. He is quite good at it too. Nearly any given moment you will find him gazing out the front windows barking at any passing thing.

Since I was feeling better, and feeling bad for my kids who had to stay house bound with me for 2 weeks we made a stop at the toy store after preschool one day. Do you ever take your kids to the toy store to play? It's my kids favorite thing to do. Sometimes they are lucky and even get an allowance of a couple bucks to pick a treasure to take home.

Abbey doesn't understand the concept yet so she likes to fill her hands with treasures... And she has a love affair with minnie mouse so a whole aisle of minnie toys was more than she could handle.

Jude played super heros. His favorite? Captain America... until tomorrow when I sure it will be another one.

We made mickey mouse valentine cookies... I didn't hear the timer go off and, well they were all inedible, but we had fun making them.

Abbey likes to show me toys and her new thing is wanting me to take a picture of her toys.

So how was your week?

Paper Bag Pants {Free PDF Pattern}

2012-02-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

I have had a bit of a love affair with paper bag style clothing, pants mainly. I would love to wear the comfy pants myself but I am pretty sure my hips don't need the added poof. Abbey on the other hand? They would be super comfortable for any child loose, baggy, stretchy waisted pants. So I made some, I love them and I made a pattern for you. Not a graded pattern, but a pattern, in size 3T, well maybe like a 2T waist and a 3T length? Abbey is kind of between sizes and they fit her like some 2T and some 3T. (link for pattern below)

The pants are pretty forgiving for the pattern since they are loose and baggy. So if you are making a larger or smaller size you should be able to adjust the height of the waist (front and back) Width (along the straight side) Length in the inseam.

Free Pattern can be found here:
Paper Bag Pants PDF

*Disclaimer*
I use media fire to hold the free patterns, I don't pay for a media fire account just the free account this means they stay free for you and you may have to view a pop up ad, just close it please don't send me an email complaining about the ad. Simply click the green download button and your download should begin. If you have trouble downloading the pattern send me an email at
shwinandshwin@gmail.com
I am more than happy to send out the pattern to you, please be nice in your request (seems silly to even ask such a thing but it happens) It may take me a little time to get it out to you but I do my best.
Ok disclaimer (rant) over with and we can move on to the tutorial.

Few tips before we begin, I used a 3/8 inch seam allowance.
Also the pants can be made with almost any fabric but since they get pleated and sewn at the top waist I reccomend a light weight fabric. I used this really light weight chambray denim. (plain cotton for the facing)

Start by sewing right sides together, the pocket facing to the front of the pant.

Then turn the pocket facing to the back of the pant and top stitch.

Then with RST place the pocket piece down on the pocket facing. Then only sewing through the facing and the pocket sew them together along the edge.

Now you should have your two front pieces done. Tack the pocket in place to secure along the top edge and side edge. (it makes sewing later easier)

Next there is not a pattern piece for this but I decided to add faux welt pockets to the back of the pants. There is a tutorial on that here.

See, cute little faux welt pockets. Totally optional.

Now for the pants sew a front and back leg right sides together along the straight edge and from the curve of the crotch to the ankle.

Then with one leg right side out and one leg inside out place the right side out leg into the other and line up the top curved piece. Sew the "U" shape to sew the two legs together.

Now you have some very large looking pants. (Which seriously for like a size 4 or 5 you could just add and elastic waistband and have a cute pair of pants, just saying)

Take the facing pieces. (the strips cut from the top part of the pattern) Sew them together at the back and side seams like you did for the pants. That way you should have a large waistband. (if you are using a one sided fabric sew right sides together for all the seams)

Match up the front and back and match all the seams (sides and front and back) So the facing and the pant waist match up. Then sew them together.

Press the facing up. Finish the top edge. I serged mine but you can turn it under if you rather. Then fold it down.

Sew the facing down all around the pants. (you can see the stitch line) Now this part looks kind of messy, but it works. Measure your child from side to side across the front of their waist (or half their waist measurement) That is the size you want the front of the waist to be when you are done pleating. Add pleats across the front of the pant until it is the right size. It may take some adjusting to make sure the pleats stay even. Then sew right through the pleats to secure them all in place. I just followed the stitch line that was already there.

Next take the piece for the elastic casing and fold both side length wise inward.

Then sew it in place along the top and bottom leave the sides open. Slide your elastic in place. I used 1/2 inch knit elastic. How much you use will depend on how stretchy your elastic is and how tight you want it, I used about 6 inches. I usually use the rule of thumb that the back should be able to stretch to full size when the elastic is stretched.

Sew the elastic in place at both ends to secure.

Then for the front, I don't have the best picture for this but I used some nice and wide ribbon for the front tie. I sewed it in place at both sides. Then I tied it in bow being careful that it was not loose but not pulling the front pieces tight. (you can put it on your child to tie the bow then take it off to sew it in place) I tacked the ribbon and bow in place so it wouldn't come untied. Since if it was going to be anything like shoes they come undone every two seconds and that would just be annoying. Lastly hem the bottom of the pants. The pattern was made pretty long, so you can hem them to whatever length you need, but keep in mind that wide leg pants look short really fast so keep them a little on the long side or they will be flood worthy in no time.

Then thats it! Enjoy your new comfy pants.

With super deep pockets for the treasure keeper in your family!

(if you make some pants share them in our flickr group we would love to see them!)