Strictly Homemade

Monogrammed Seersucker Bows for the Summer!

2013-05-16T12:18:00.001-04:00

It is summer time and summer time means SEERSUCKER season. Yippee!!

In honor of all things southern a timeless classic material with a beautiful monogram!

Boy’s Bow Tie: $22.00

Measures 4” across and 2” wide.
Velcro closure with a matching band around the neck, helps adjust.
3 Lengths available: 15”, 16”, 17”

Girl’s Monogrammed Hair Bows: $17.00

Sizes: Small 4” across and 2'” wide or Large 5” across and 3” wide.
Availble with covered clip, or headband

Color Options:

Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. All items are handmade by me and monogramming is by Mayken Stitches.

To order please go to my SHOP Page! Thank you!!

If you are interested in a matching onsie dress. Email me at maridithdesigns@gmail.com. Prices start at $17.

Boys Chevron Bow Ties- Free Shipping and Giveaway

2013-04-25T16:59:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my weekly Thursday Night Special. Each Thursday I host a giveaway of a special deal. I am so happy you are here!!!
It is BOW Time!!! (Have you heard the commercials for Bojangles and they say it’s Bo-time!) No, yes??
Anyway it time for a BOW TIE GIVEAWAY!!

Tonight through Friday evening visit my Strictly Homemade Facebook Page and enter for your chance to win a Chevron Bow Tie. Your color choice!!

To enter to win a Bow Tie by Strictly Homemade!!
1. “Like” my Facebook Page
2. Share my Post on Facebook
3. Comment on my FB page that you shared.
Easy as that! I will announce the winner Saturday morning and the winner has 24 hours to contact me with their color preference and mailing address. If not a new winner will be picked.
About the Bow Ties:
This bow tie can be made for ages newborn-13 years old.
- all ties are pre-tied, with a matching strap and velcro closure
- 100% cotton
-custom and handmade by Strictly Homemade
Tonight through Friday 8PM. I am offering this beautifully handmade Chevron Bow Ties with FREE SHIPPING!! I normally charge 3.00 for shipping but today it is FREE (US Shipping Only) outside residents please contact me.
Each Bow Tie is $15.00 These were a huge hit at Easter Time and the pictures I got back from my happy customer’s were priceless. Don’t miss out!!!

Select your color and tell me the age of your child and I will ship them out in 1-2 weeks!!

GIVEAWAY AND SPECIAL OFFER IS OVER!! Thank you!!

Thursday Night Special Chevron Infinity Scarf Sale

2013-04-11T17:00:00.000-04:00

Tonight is the night!!! Now from 12PM EST the much desired Infinity Scarf will be on sale here at Strictly Homemade.

Material: Soft Jersey Knit, screen printed
Quality Finishing:This scarf is finished in tube style so no raw edges are showing, double sided, wonderful weight and full of body

Options: Plain or Monogrammed If you get this monogrammed you will not see the monogram underside either! All monogramming is done by Mayken Stitches.
Scarf Measurements:Approximately Width: 9” Wide X 72” tube length circumference
Quantities Limited!!
So shop early before it all sales out!
Colors: Navy, Royal Blue, Gray, Lime Green, Red, Watermelon, Coral, Black, and Aqua

Prices: Infinity Scarf (no monogram) is $15.00 Infinity Scarf with monogram is $22. Shipping is $3.00
(add the monogram buy it now to your purchase)
Details:
Purchase your scarf here with the link below. There you can place your order from 5-12PM.
Turn-around time is 1-2 weeks. US. Shipments only, sorry friends outside the US!
Be sure like my Strictly Homemade Facebook Page. Lots of great things coming out of this shop weekly!!

SALE IS OVER!!

Children Elastic Shorts $18

Details About Thursday Night’s Special: Chevron Infinity Scarf Sale

2013-04-10T16:44:00.001-04:00

Thursday Night, April 11th at 5PM-12PM EST the much desired Infinity Scarf will be on sale here at Strictly Homemade.

Material: Soft Jersey Knit, screen printed

Quality Finishing:
This scarf is finished in tube style so no raw edges are showing, double sided....

If you get this monogrammed you will not see the monogram underside either! All monogramming is done by Mayken Stitches in the monogram shown above.

Scarf Measurements:
Approximately Width: 9” Wide X 72” tube length circumference

There is an assortment of colors but limited quantity.

So shop early before it all sales out!

Colors: Navy, Royal Blue, Gray, Lime Green, Red, Watermelon, Coral, Black, and Aqua

Prices: Infinity Scarf (no monogram) is $15.00 (lowest price you will find anywhere), Infinity Scarf with monogram is $22. (add the monogram buy it now to your purchase)

Details:

Tomorrow here on Strictly Homemade I will have a blog post with a Buy It Now Button. There you can place your order from 5-12PM. There is limited quantity so once it sales out it sales out!

Turn-around time is 1-2 weeks. US. Sales Only, sorry friends outside the US!

Be sure to come back tomorrow for this fantastic sale and all my weekly “Thursday Night Special” and like my Strictly Homemade Facebook Page.

Easter 2013- Customers’ Pictures

2013-04-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

One of the greatest joys for me, as a seamstress, is seeing my creations on other people. This Easter I can’t even explain to you what an amazing feeling it was to see my newsfeed and email full of pictures of your loved ones all dressed in chevron created by Strictly Homemade. I take pride in my work and the best payment is my customers loving what I make and sharing with me how much they love my items. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Thank you, for supporting my hobby turned into a business!!!

Thank you, for sharing with me your cuties so I can share with others!!!

In no particular order here are the pictures I received this Easter. I want you to know there were a LOT of Southern Gentlemen out their with bow ties and Southern Ladies with a new take on a peasant dress.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!!

Orange Brother Bow Ties

Boys and Girls can wear pink!!

Lots of Aqua this Spring!!!

My friends boys!!! They are big Wolf pack Fans too!!! Not sure if this is why she ordered red but I love it!!

Navy

A Family Affair with Chevron (I made something for each family member!!!). LOVE, LOVE!!

Thank you again and if you want to share pictures of you or your children in Strictly Homemade Designs please send pictures to maridithdesigns @ gmail.com

First Day of Spring means COLOR!!

2013-03-20T14:24:00.001-04:00

Today is the first day of Spring and here in NC it feels nothing like spring. We are blessed the sun is out but it is NOT warm. Although the temps are cold the warm weather is fast approaching. Get your spring wardrobe ready!! Chevron is the #1 print of the season.

One of the best color combos this summer (in my opinion) is Aqua and Red. It is a wonderful combo for both boys and girls!!!!

I just love preppy boys!!!

This combo is made with the simple elastic shorts and a polo shirt!

Another excellent combo for this spring is the classic Navy and Yellow! Add an appliqué and you have a perfect boutique ensemble without paying an arm and a leg!!

This combo can be ordered by contacting me at maridithdesigns @ gmail. com

Last we can’t forget about us ladies. I love wearing black but I have promised to break myself from this and wear COLOR!!! Not only did I wear 1 color, I wore TWO yesterday.

This is an very comfortable shirt made specific to your body measurements out of jersey knit!! I wore a coral and aqua earrings and just LOVED this look. It was just as easy to pull off as jeans and a t-shirt but it looks MUCH better. This top can be ordered by contacting me at maridithdesigns @ gmail. com

Finally for the ladies a must have is the Maxi Dress. I am a tall woman most maxi dresses in the store do not fit. However, when you make your own or have one customized to your body measurements, you can wear this design. This is made out a jersey knit and it honestly feels like your pajamas that you are aloud to wear in public. Wear a thin belt or thick belt and enjoy!!

I just love all the different looks you can get from Chevron.

This is my little snippet of some spring fashions this year and what I have to offer my fabulous customers. Thank you all for your continued support.

Remember

C-O-L-O-R

It is our friend this spring and don’t be afraid or combining them!!!!

Girls Chevron Custom Shorts Outfit

2013-03-18T22:33:00.001-04:00

Now for the chevron girl shorts and shirt!! Yippee!! Order yours today!!!! Orders are open from March 18-24, 2013
Navy Chevron Shorts with Yellow Ruffled Blouse Appliquéd- Sizes 12mo-5T $36.00

Beautifully sewn ruffled shorts with elastic waistband and a matching appliquéd shirt. It really doesn’t get any cuter!
Navy Chevron Shorts with Yellow v-neck shirt appliquéd (like the ‘C’ above) Sizes 6-10 $36.00

Colors Available & Print Sizes:
Small Print 1” (as shown) Aqua, Pink, Navy, Red

Medium Print 2” (Like the Chevron Peasant Dress or boys cargo shorts) Aqua, Pink, Navy, Red

All other chevron prints (aqua, red, pink, or navy) are sold with a white scoop neck or v-neck shirt with an appliqué in the lower right corner of shirt.

Shorts and Shirt Set: 6mo-5T- $36.00 and Sizes 6-10 $36.00

Shorts Only no Monogram: Size 12mo-5T-$18 Size 6-10 $18
Shorts Monogrammed: Size 12mo-5T $24, Size 6-10 $24.00
Purchase the shorts without a blouse with a single letter monogram on the bottom right leg opening in the color of your choice. You choose the color chevron print and embroidery color.

All monograms and appliqués are done by Mayken Stitches. Leslie, Mayken Stitches owner, and I are excited to work on these orders together to make the perfect outfit for a special little girl in your life.

How to order: If you have any questions please send me an email at maridithdesigns@gmail.com to order your girls chevron shorts outfit. We can communicate the size, color chevron, monogram color, and style. After we work out the details I will send you an invoice through PayPal. You do not need a PayPal account to pay, just an email and credit card. These shorts are customized to fit your individual needs!! Really helpful information is waist measurements and desired short length.

Turn-around time: Less then 3 weeks. Please note that the 3 week period begins after the closing of the orders on specified date above. Orders accepted March 18- March 24. Don’t forget to check out the other items I offer like the Chevron Peasant Dress, Boys Cargo Shorts and Boys Bow Ties!!!
Thank you for your interest, and I hope to hear from your soon!! Leslie and I look forward to working with you in creating a very special outfit for your loved one!!

Boys Chevron Cargo Shorts and Appliquéd Shirt

2013-03-18T15:04:00.001-04:00

I am excited to offer from SH Designs Boy’s Chevron Cargo Shorts and Appliquéd Shirt.
ON SALE NOW!!!
The first round of orders will be open from March 18- 24.

These shorts are based on the pattern from Seamingly Smitten’s Classically Cool Cargo Shorts and made out of 100% cotton Riley Black Chevron Print.
Sizes Available: 12mo- 8.
Details: Shorts are elastic waistband with two side pockets and 2 cargo pockets with flap. PLUS a handsome monogram on the right side pocket. Available in two options a 3 letter monogram or single letter monogram. You pick the coordinating color thread. Only 2 styles available.

Color options for chevron. Orange, Brown, Black, Navy, Red.

Then to complete the look add on the single letter appliquéd white 100% cotton t-shirt.
All monograms and appliqués are done by Mayken Stitches. Leslie, Mayken Stitches owner, and I are excited to work on these orders together to make the perfect outfit for a special little boy in your life.
Cargo Short Costs:

Monogrammed Chevron Cargo Shorts $30, Sizes 12mo-8, slim or regular
No Monogram Chevron Cargo Shorts $24 Sizes 12mo-8, slim or regular

New:
Simple Elastic Chevron Shorts with no pockets and a monogram on the right leg $24

Simple Elastic Chevron Short, no pockets, no monogram $18

Appliquéd Shirt: $17.00

How to order:
Please send me an email at maridithdesigns@gmail.com to order your custom boy cargo shorts or simple elastic waist shorts. We can communicate the size, color chevron, monogram color, and style. After we work out the details I will send you an invoice through PayPal. You do not need a PayPal account to pay, just an email and credit card. These shorts are customized to fit your needs!!
I will contact you if I have any questions or need any more information.

Turn-around time: Less then 3 weeks. Please note that the 3 week period begins after the closing of the orders on specified date above. Orders accepted March 18- March 24

Thank you for your order!! Leslie and I look forward to working with you in creating a very special outfit for your loved one!!

Chevron Peasant Dress On Sale Now

2013-02-22T09:51:00.001-05:00

Strictly Homemade by Maridith is offering beautiful custom Chevron Peasant Ruffle Dresses for Easter. Order yours now through Feb. 28th to guarantee Easter Deliver.

A little about the dress, This is beautiful Riley Blake Fabric, 100% cotton. Elastic neckline and Ruffle Sleeves. Sizes available 9mo-8.

All dresses are made 100% by me. Professionally made and finished with serged edges. Just like store bought only made in the USA, and made by a mom who is passionate about making beautiful clothes and loves what she does!!!

Here is a sample of the dresses I offer.

Pick your chevron color and bow color. Or take it the next level and contact me to custom design a chevron dress specific to your taste (bottom right).

Dresses start at $34 each. Depending on the custom design.

If you would like to order a chevron peasant dress, contact me at maridithdesigns@gmail.com

Also, don’t forget the boys!! They can sport chevron too!! Bow ties are available. Go here to order a matching bow tie!!

Chevron Bow Ties for boys

2013-02-15T15:39:00.001-05:00

It is time to start thinking about Easter and what you kids will be wearing. This year one of the biggest trends is Chevron Print. It is everywhere and boys can wear it too!!!

Make your little man extra handsome by having him sport a bow tie on Easter Sunday (or any Sunday for that matter).
This bow tie can be made for ages newborn-13 years old.
About these ties:
- all ties are pre-ties, with a matching strap and velcro closure
- 100% cotton
-custom and handmade by Maridith
Here are your bow tie color options.

Colors: (Top to bottom) Aqua, navy, hot pink, orange, red, yellow, navy
When ordering please put in the comments the age of the child recipient and the color option you would like.
If you don’t see exactly what you are looking for email me and I would love to work with you and creating the perfect bow tie for you! maridithdesigns @ gmail. com

Of course, you can’t forget about the girls!! Tomorrow, I will be opening up the orders for the Chevron Dress, delivery for Easter!!! If you would like to order a matching dresses and chevron bow tie, email me and I will send you a custom invoice. Orders will only be accepted until Feb 28th.

Thank you all for your support and encouragement! This is a life long dream of mine to create custom clothes for others.

Custom Ring Bearer’s Pillow

2013-02-06T08:34:00.001-05:00

Michigan Style!!

If you know me, you know I am not getting remarried and I am not a Michigan fan so you know this is NOT for me.

This is a custom order for Lillian. She contacted me through my blog and requested a custom made pillow. I thought I would walk you through the process so if you are ever interested in a custom design (clothes, pillows, curtains, etc) you would know the process.

How did I end up making a Michigan Ring Pillow? A viewer from Canada contacted me asking me about a football pillow I made a long time ago. She asked me if I could design her a Michigan style ring pillow.

The design: we worked together through email and I sent her a couple drawings until we had the design exactly how she wanted it. Once the design and price was settled, I started working.

Here is one of the drawings.

The work in progress: I would email my customer with update pictures on my progress. I like doing because 1)it comforts them to know I am working on their project especially since many of my customers do not know me 2)It is always easier to change something during construction then afterwards!!

The finished design:

To hold the rings down the aisle one of the hash marks is Velcro and will hold the rings.

I was completely honored to help design a special piece of Lillian’s wedding. This will also be a special keepsake for them too for many years to come.

If you ever have something you want custom made, please contact me maridithdesigns@gmail.com. I love to help make your vision a reality…Strictly Homemade!!

Chevron Peasant Ruffle Dress On Sale Now

2013-02-01T14:19:00.001-05:00

Thanks to popular demand I am taking orders for this beautiful chevron dress. I originally posted this on my Facebook page showing my fans the cute dress a client had custom ordered for her daughter, plus a matching 18” AGD dress. I have always know my customer’s know best so it was no surprise you would all would want one too!!

This is a Chevron Peasant Ruffle Dress with short sleeves.

Full length dress

Now available for a limited time you can order one for a special little girl in your life.

COST: $32.00 with $3 shipping

Sizes available: 9mo-10

Style: Short sleeve (shown) or 3/4 sleeve

This is available in 3 different colors.

Aqua/white (shown) Hot Pink/white

Navy/White

I am only taking orders for these dresses until Sunday Feb 3rd, 2013. Delivery time will be 2-3 weeks from Sunday Feb 3rd. Please remember, all dresses are custom made by me and I make sure every dress is perfect.

Thank you for continuing to be such awesome fans of Strictly Homemade. You all inspire me to keep on creating. If there is something you would like to add to this dress to make it more custom for your taste, (bow, monogram, etc) email me at maridithdesigns@gmail.com I can help make your vision a reality!!!

Email me (maridithdesigns@gmail.com) to order or leave me your order information in the comments plus your paypal email address and I will put your order in.

Thank you, again!!!

Breakfast with your 18” doll with L-bean’s Corner

2013-01-30T14:32:00.001-05:00

I have to hand it to my daughter. She is VERY creative. I would like to think she gets it from me, but she really comes up with stuff I would never think of doing.

Several months ago she had a tutorial on how to make Barbie Nail Polish. Now she is coming up with stuff that is so much fun and things that you might be interested in, so I am officially giving my daughter her own section of my blog. Called L-bean’s Corner. Sharing with you stuff my 7 year old daughter is making that you can share with your children/grandchildren!!

This morning she saw I made a tinny, tiny pancake this morning with the left over pancake batter. Next thing I know she pulled up her AGD, Lanie, served her a pancake, toast, and orange juice.

Here is how she did it. A lid, a small pancake (made by an adult), and Cheez-it for toast, and medicine cup measurer filled with orange juice.

Breakfast is served!!!

The best part is my daughter ate it all (after Lanie had her fill)

So cute, so simple!!!

Thank you, L-bean’s Corner.

Strictly Sunshine Pillowcase Dress Now Available

2013-01-28T17:07:00.001-05:00

I posted about my newest pattern on Facebook but I have not announced it on the blog! My newest pattern called “Strictly Sunshine” Pillowcase dress with instructions on how to make a party hat that will keep it’s form.

This easy pattern will take 30min-an hour base on skill level and preparedness. (I find I waste more time looking for supplies then actually sewing, sometimes)

What makes this pattern unique? There are two different techniques to make this. One is with ribbon and the other is with elastic to help little hands get this dress on and off

I was blessed to have some awesome women test out this pattern. Thank you so much to Jennifer C. Heather, and Carol!!

As you can see you are can make your dress unique to your own style!

Reversible dress!

Rather then bows on the side, buttons!

For all my readers enjoy 20% off all my patterns on my Strictly Homemade Etsy Shop. Use code

SUNSHINE20

Thank you, and continue to make it Strictly Homemade!!

The Polka Dot Dress’s Infinity Scarf Giveaway Winner

2013-01-18T14:15:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Kristy F. the winner of the Infinity Scarf Giveaway!!!

Thank you to all of you who entered into the giveaway and your awesome feedback. This is what Kristy won!!!

IF you didn’t win and see something you love, The Polka Dot Dress is having a BOGO 25% off right now! Buy anything and get the second item 25% off.

This means you can buy this. Coral me Happy Dress

and this… Starfish Bracelet

and freshen up your wardrobe and get ready for the summer!!!

Thank you also to The Polka Dot Dress and sponsoring this giveaway for my fans!!! We LOVE your stuff!

How to Make Tutu–No Sewing Needed

2013-01-16T13:59:00.001-05:00

Have a little girl that loves to play dress up or dance? Then she NEEDS a tutu!!

You can make this in less then an hour and it will cost you (without a coupon) about $8.00
Here is what you need.
Tulle Fabric on a roll and a crochet elastic headband (pictured). There are other tutorials on the web to use elastic. I recommend the crochet headbands. Here is why: First it looks finished. Second, over time the tulle is going to bunch on the elastic (I know I made one like that) this method the tulle stays in place and looks beautiful all the time.

I recommend cutting your tulle 18” lengths. Rolling 2 at a time and cutting. You will need almost 100-18” pieces.

This is the fun part…
Put the headband on your leg with the wrong side facing you.

Take your 18” piece and fold in half.

Pinch the center so most is gathered between your finger and from the underside push the tulle between the bottom hole. This way a loop is coming towards you.

Pick up the material inside the loop and pull through.

Pull tightly until it looks like this below.

Continue all the way around the bottom row.

Part two pieces of tulle and tie a knot on the 2nd row of openings.

Filling on the second row.

Continue all the way around. This is how the front of the tutu will look.

If you want your tutu to have layers make your fold off center this is how I made my niece's. I used my hand as a guide to make it consistent all the way around.

A tutu using a headband tutu will fit kids from 6mo- size 7/8 children. I had a FB fan challenge me on this fact so I snapped a picture of my 7 year old daughter wearing the tutu.

And then my almost 2 year old wearing the tutu!!!

The options are endless on what you can add to your tutu. I decided on my long pieces to add knots at the bottom. You could add ribbon (use fray check at the end) glue on gems (not recommended for younger children) or add different color tulle. Have fun and use your imagination!!!
Make it Strictly Homemade!!!

The Polka Dot Dress a New Sponsor with a Fabulous Giveaway

2013-01-14T07:32:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to introduce to you Strictly Homemade’s newest Sponsor. Mary Katherine has been a friend of mine since the summer of 1998! We were roomies one summer at Meredith College. We got disconnected after college but thanks to the power of Social Media we reconnected. Especially, when she started her online business The Polka Dot Dress. The Polka Dot Dress online boutique has kept me accessorized and clothed!!! Because of Mary Katherine’s love for fashion and a good deal- this combination helps me, a busy mom of 3, stay in style without leaving my house and not spending a fortune!

As a new sponsor on Strictly Homemade, Mary Katherine has been kind enough to offer one of my readers a fabulous giveaway. I say this because I really REALLY want one. First, I want to you to meet our new sponsor and my friend!

By day this Raleigh native heads up her household as a stay at home mom of two very active toddlers. By night Mary Katherine, a "mom-fashionista" in the making, can be found running her online boutique, The Polka Dot Dress. This is her latest hobby/business venture.

:: THE STORE ::
At The Polka Dot Dress we have stylish new items and we look for new fashion trends everyday...while offering them to you at customer friendly prices. The Polka Dot Dress aims to give you the same feel and service of shopping in a small boutique, but doing so from your desk, home, couch or even on-the-go. We try to receive new merchandise weekly and show those items. We also show you how to take classic staples in your closet from different seasons and update the style with our goods :-)

:: THE OWNER ::

Mary Katherine Pittman Preston

I am a native of NC. I grew up in Johnston County ...a little town called Pine Level. I then went to UNC Chapel Hill and Meredith College. I hold my B.S. in Business Admin. with a concentration in Marketing. I also have a minor in Psychology. After Meredith I returned to ECU to gain my teaching lic. in K-6. I currenlty live in RALEIGH, NC and love it! I am a former business professional + 2nd grade teacher.......turned STAY AT HOME MOM of two toddlers....I decided to start my own company last year and have loved every second. I am much more of a creative person...so the details are something I am working on daily...but learning OHHHHH so much!

I love business, art, teaching, learning, inspiration, life, adventures, the beach, not worrying about the "small stuff", and much more. You can find out more on my blog......

A little more :

Dream Vacation: road trip around Europe
Shoes I Covet: My summer flip flops and Jack Rogers
Where I Get My Coffee: with two toddlers...it is home, the NH Target Starbucks.... or drive thru DD :-)
My Pet: Cheesecake Scarlett Preston ....my little tabby that I adopted from the SPCA. I think it is important to "save a life".
My Lucky Charm: wisdom and faith (learn from the past and look toward the future ...that will be your luck in lots of cases)
My Desk: organized chaos (I'm so ADHD)
Where You’ll Find Me On Friday Nights: home with my husband and toddlers....curled up in bed or on the couch watching a movie...or out downtown somewhere....Raleigh Rimes is a fav.
My nickname: MKP or MKPP (now that I am married)
I can’t live without: Coffee !!!! and Sunshine

My passion right now: my children and little business ....I want to bring style to the women everywhere ...great prices...ease of shopping online...but the personal feel of a boutique in a small town...I want to show women how to take basics and add a touch of style without spending a lot.

Here are some things she offers on her website…

The Maridith Top. She named this one after me!!!! I am so honored!!!

The Coral Me Happy Dress. (Love this one too!!)

Really, I love everything on her website. MKPP understands mom’s needs for stylish clothes for moms on the go!!

My blog/website: http://thepolkadotdress.bigcartel.com/

http://thepolkadotdress1.blogspot.com/

and working on my other site. www.thepolkadotdressconsignment.com (no longer consignment only new)

Words to live by: There is NO DAY like TODAY!

Now for my fabulous readers. Here is what she is offering you. A beautiful watermelon and white chevron infinity scarf with a monogram!! BEAUTIFUL!!! If you don’t win this one, go to her site and order one. They come in multiple color options!!

Here is how you enter to win. Giveaway starts now and ends Thursday 12PM EST. Leave a comment on her Facebook Page and tell her Maridith sent you!!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Strictly Homemade is a dot com

2013-01-11T16:24:00.001-05:00

I am super excited to announce that Strictly Homemade is no longer has a blogspot.com in it's URL.

I am now just....

www.strictly-homemade.com

Why is that important???

Not really sure but it makes me feel like my little website is a little more professional. :)

I am working really hard to make Strictly Homemade a success! I have tons of things planned for SH and looking forward to sharing them all with you!! Recently I have concentrated my efforts on making 18" doll clothes and I am super excited about those. Homemade Clothes you can order here...

New Patterns coming soon...

The Strictly Sunshine Pillowcase Dress with Party Hat

I will continue to share money saving tips on homemade gifts, homemade treats and much more.

I hope you will stay tuned on Strictly Homemade!!! Thank you all for your continued support!!

Meredith College Class of 2000 Inspired Doll Dress

2013-01-04T08:02:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to share this post with my beloved MC Class of 2000 friends! This doll dress was inspired by the Class Doll of 2000. What is even more exciting is you can pass on the tradition to a special little girl in your life and share a little history!!
I have designed a dress for 18” Dolls that is a replica of the Meredith College Class Doll of 2000.

Named after our Class Doll “Millicent”
Here is the beautiful class doll (source) and where I got my inspiration!

Here is a little history for those of you who did not graduate from Meredith College.
Meredith College is an all women’s college in the heart of Raleigh, NC. MC was founding in 1891 and has a strong foundation of traditions. Our traditions is what keeps Meredith College one of the largest and strongest women colleges in the South! A snapshot of our traditions… We have a yearly class competition called Cornhuskin’ it is hard to explain you just have to experience it. Class Ring Ceremony, Mother/Daughter Tea, Father/Daughter Dance, Alice and Wonderland play, Formals, Daisy Ceremony and Class Dolls.
Class Dolls have been a Meredith Tradition since 1902. Every class has made an unique doll and a time capsule piece of all the things that represent their 4 years at Meredith College. They are ALL up in Johnson Hall in the The Margaret Bright Gallery for anyone to see.

(Thank you Holly for the picture)
Each year the class votes 2 people to be the Class Doll Co-chairs. They are in charge of designing, creating and writing a synopsis of our 4 years at Meredith in a unique and memorable way. Our class co-chairs were Holly and Tiffany (pictured below). They are a dynamic duo and I couldn’t imagine two better people to create our class doll. They did a magnificent job and one of the most unique and classiest dolls in the case!!!

(Thank you Shannon for the picture)
Here is what is written about our class doll (source)

Our doll is named Millicent Faith Hartford: Millicent because our class is the first class to graduate in the new millennium and century; Faith because it was faith that got us through; and Hartford in honor of the first female president of Meredith College, Dr. Maureen Hartford. Millicent is dressed for the celebration of the new millennium in a silver ball-gown skirt, complemented by a black strapless top and sheer beaded scarf. Her accessories include an invisible necklace with matching earrings, a twisted silver bracelet, and her Meredith class ring. Millicent has blue eyes, blonde hair, and her nails are painted dusty pink. She is placed on an oak stand to represent the Oak Leaves, our College yearbook. On the stand, there are hand painted daisies and ivy and an engraved plaque, which reads "Circle of Friends, 2000" to represent the never-ending friendships that we have made as the Class of 2000. The time capsule placed beside her is filled with many memories that Class of 2000 will always hold close to their hearts.
Co-chairs were Holly J and Tiffany K. Special thanks to Maridith K. (outfit), and Mike I. (accessories).

You can read all about the pieces in the time capsule on the Meredith Website.
Holly and Tiffany were in charge of the doll and picked me to make Class Doll’s Clothes (Class of 2000 grad). It was such an honor to have a role in creating our Class Doll’s clothes. I worked over my Spring Break with my mom creating clothes our class would be proud of. Here she is as a work in progress.

Now fast forward 13 years…and my daughter has an American Girl Doll and I want to make her a dress inspired by my class doll’s dress. That is when it hit me, I can’t be the only one who loves our class doll and would like to share that experience with their daughter.
I am offering a “Class of 2000 Millicent Doll Dress”

This is a beautifully handmade dress that will hold up to the wear and tear of child play. It comes with a velvet sash with tassels.
The dress bottom is silver and sparkly just like the Class Doll.

To show a little modesty this is a one strap dress rather then strapless.

Little girls can get ready for a “MC Formal” or the princess ball.

This dress has a fully lined bodice and the skirt seams are serged seams. This dress is designed and constructed for play use, yet captures the elegance c/o 2000 represented.
Each doll will come with the c/o 2000 write-up so you can truly pass along what we did “way back then.” The dress comes to you wrapped in acid free paper incase you don’t have any girls right now and can pass it along to your granddaughter one day
**This dress will fit 18” American Girl Dolls, Next Generation Dolls, My Dolls Life, and other standard 18” dolls.
How you can order a little piece of MC history….
Option 1: Millicent Doll Dress without shoes

Option 2: Millicent Dress with silver shoes

Preorder sales will end soon then this will go on my Etsy page and the price will increase. Order yours today!!!
Order here on my blog today. It is safe and secure through Paypal. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Remember this is not made in China but by me and each one in handcrafted. All shipping is $4.95 unless we talk before hand and we can schedule pick-up (Raleigh area only)! If we schedule a pick-up I will send you an invoice through Paypal.

Order your Millicent Dress today!! Save it for a birthday gift, special occasions, Christmas , or a future granddaughter!! Don’t miss your opportunity to have a small piece of MC history!
A special thank you to Holly and Tiffany the creators of the Class of 2000 Doll!!! You ladies are awesome!!
Also, if you are reading at this and a graduate of Meredith College and would like me to design 18” doll clothes representing your class doll, message me at maridithdesigns @ Gmail . com. We can talk! I am working on the possibility of creating clothes for the next MC Reunion!! That would be c/o 2008, 2003, 1998, and 1993!!!

Best of 2012 at Strictly Homemade

2013-01-02T13:56:00.001-05:00

Well, that is a wrap. 2012 is over and here we are in 2013!

2012 was a great year full of growth and trying new things here. I tried a few new things here on Strictly Homemade, some things worked and some things FAILED, however numbers don’t lie and I know which directions I need to go in 2013.

If you recall from my Best of 2011 my most popular post was my free 18” Winter Fleece Pattern with 11,787 hits. This year was no different except the number has tripled!! Coming in with a whopping 25,668 hits in 2012.

This post has been viewed over 36,000 times!! Holy moly!!!

My second most popular post was my free Shirred Dress for 18” Dolls.

Then finally something from 2012 was my tutorial on how to make you own crib sheets! This went viral on Pintrest. So happy I could help!!!

I started Maridith’s Designs Etsy shop in April of 2012 and had some success in selling 18” Doll Patterns, Capes and Custom Pillows.

2012 was good but I think great things will be happening in 2013!!!

What is new for 2013!!

It has been a learning adventure and now in 2013 I am ready to put my full effort into creating more 18” doll patterns and clothes for my shop.

I have decided change my name from Maridith’s Designs to Strictly Homemade by Maridith so there is some continuity between my blog and my shop. (make sense, right??? I am slow learner)

I will also, try to keep my blog updated with tutorials and fun stuff. I am constantly on Facebook and would love for you to join me there. Can’t decide if I should be on Twitter. Thought?

I look forward to growing my little business Strictly Homemade and my continue generating posts you will all love. I still do custom orders (curtains, baby bedding, pillows, etc) so email me at maridithdesigns @ gmail . com and we can talk!! Sewing and creating is my passion and this blog is my little baby!!! I hope you stick with me in 2013 to see what I will be creating!!

Wishing you and yours a WONDERFUL and HEALTHY 2013!!!

50%–SALE on 18” Doll Patterns

2012-12-29T16:45:00.001-05:00

Starting today through New Year’s Day all my 18” doll patterns are 50% off!!

This is in celebrations of the closing of Maridith’s Designs Etsy Shop and the Opening of Strictly Homemade Etsy Shop. Really it is just a name change but why not celebrate!!!

I have 3 patterns currently for sale…

Karen Ballroom Gown- Sale price $1.75

3-in-1 Annabelle Skirt Pattern Sale price $1.50

Reversible Dress- Sale price $1.75

Use code NEWYEAR50

www.maridithdesigns.etsy.com

Happy Sewing and Happy New Year!!!

Make your own Wreath Bows Tutorial

2012-12-04T15:30:00.001-05:00

IF I CAN DO IT, SO CAN YOU!!!

There are a lot of things I can do, sew, craft, and create, but bow making skills in NOT one of my fortes. However, I am here to share with you a tutorial so you can make your own bows! The bonus is you can make all your bows for a fraction of the cost!!

Make your own bows!! All done with pictures…

Step 1:

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Step 3:

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Step 5:

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Step 7:

Step 8:

Step 9:

TADA!!!

Decorate your wreath and step back and be proud of the fact that YOU MADE YOUR BOWS!!! These are my window wreaths…

Sharing here and if you like PIN IT!!

BB’s Yeast Rolls

2012-11-26T16:34:00.001-05:00

Some of the best recipes on the earth are the recipes that are past down from generation to generation. Today, I am sharing with you a recipe that belonged to my father’s grandmother, BB. (I wish I had a digital picture to share with you but I don’t.)

It is one of those SPECIAL recipes that our family makes pretty much only at Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is also one of those recipes that when you make it and it turns out it is AMAZING and it makes you feel like a master baker! As long as you follow these instructions you too can make the BEST Yeast Rolls EVER!!!

Before I go into the recipe let me give you some tips at the BEGINNING (incase you are like me and don’t read things all the way through.)

1. Use FRESH unopened All-purpose flour.

2. Yeast- DO NOT USE QUICK RISE or HIGHLY ACTIVE

3. Pull out your eggs to get to room temperature early in the day

Instructions for BB’s Yeast Rolls

1. In separate bowl mix for about 10 seconds

2 cups luke warm water
2 packages of yeast (Regular Active Yeast)

2. In a BIG BOWL

6 cups All-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 Tablespoon salt

3. Make a well in your flour with your hands and pour in

4 Tablespoons of melted butter
2 eggs beaten room temperature

4. Pour in the well your yeast mixture and stir until everything wet. DO NOT OVER STIR

5. On a lightly floured surface kneed maybe 2-3 times so it forms a ball and pat out 1/2” thick

6. With the top of a glass (approximately 2.5-3” diameter) or with a circle cookie cutter cut out your rolls

7. Melt another 1/4 cup of butter. Take a roll dip half in melted butter, pull gently and fold in half place on a stone or lightly greased baking sheet. Continue doing this for all your dough.

Pictured below are the rolls cut out on the baking sheet ready to rise.

8. Place in a draft free warm place and let them rise to about 2 times their original size. Once they have rised they are ready to cook.

Preheat oven for 400 degrees and bake for 8-10 mins. Take out, break apart and place in a roll basket.

I have to share with you my bread basket liner. This is my homemade basket liner made by my daughter!! I am so proud!!

I PROMISE, this will be the hit of all your family feasts. It is in ours and the bonus to great rolls at night is even better rolls in the morning with Jelly!!!

I hope you enjoy and if you make them please let me know how they turned out. I have to give a special thanks to my mom for teaching me how to make these rolls so I can share with my family!!!

Free 18" Doll Winter Fleece Pattern Fixed

2012-11-20T15:07:00.001-05:00

You remember this free 18” Doll Pattern that for 2 years running is my #1 post?

Well, after sending out THOUSANDS, yes THOUSANDS. I have been told there is a sizing issue when printing my patterns depending on the computer system you run. Today, I have fixed ALL the sizing issues and the pattern prints out beautifully!

So, here is the link for the instructions- WINTER FLEECE PATTERN… and here is the link to the PATTERNS. ENJOY!!!

Here are some pictures I received from people like you making Strictly Homemade doll clothes.

I apologize for any frustrations I may of caused you. You can guarantee that all of my other patterns I sale on my etsy shop print out beautiful.

Easy Teacher Thanksgiving Gift- Thankful Candle

2012-11-16T14:01:00.001-05:00

I like getting our teachers a little something every Thanksgiving as a little “Thank you” gift. Of course, I wait until the LAST possible minute to make it but that is besides the fact.

IF you are looking for a last minute Thanksgiving/ Thank you gift. Here is an easy and sweet smelling semi-homemade gift.

Really easy to make if you have a Silhoutte OR you could buy the vinyl cutouts from many vendors off Etsy OR if you live near me I could make you one!!

Instructions: Take a basic jar candle and remove the stickers (Yankee Candles are IMPOSSIBLE to get off) I bought these at Kohl’s and it was a cinch to remove.

2. Clean with rubbing alcohol

3. Apply vinyl and you are done.

If you would like add a bow.

Give it to your child’s teacher, Sunday school, or whoever you are thankful for.

I just want to take a moment and tell you all how incredibly thankful I am that you all take the time to read my blog!! The blogger friends I have developed all over the US!! I have developed such great friendships that I even “talked” like on the phone talked to one and it was fabulous!! I am also thankful to God who gave me this talent to share with others in hopes to inspire you all to make things homemade. I am a firm believer that people love homemade gifts more because they are true gifts from the heart!!

Blessings!!!