Apostrophe Designs

Where I've been.

2015-05-03T19:47:00.002-05:00

Well, sewing has been on hiatus. With no children I have ventured out and found some who don't mind wearing what I make them. One dress done and another in the works. I'll post photos when complete.

On to other topics. In the past year I've picked up embroidery by machine. A Pfaff became part of my working machines. It's been a learning curve. Pinterest reflects what I've been up to. How many of you Pin? Isn't it the greatest thing ever? Patterns, ideas, projects, recipes, style help... it's endless. Follow me if you are so inclined, Jennifer Mc is my user name.

A little outside of the sewing room...

Summer has arrived and I've worked my tail off to get the house in order for the season ahead. Summers are so harsh in the Midwest. I feel like we start over every year just to lose headway the following season.

The deck needs boards repaired again... the screws won't come out so what is a girl to do? Avoidance for a short while longer will be my option. Here are a few things I've been doing.

Dreaming of Summer

2013-01-01T17:49:00.001-06:00

It's cold and snowy here but at Joann's it's sunny and warm. I landed a couple of patterns that make me dream of summer.

McCalls 6700

Vogue 1329

The McCalls dress recommends knit fabric. Lots of options with regards to length. The back has a cute little tie.

Vogue has been reviewed by Erica B. on Patternreview. She made hers in Ponte. I like that idea. Calvin Klein had a similar dress. You can't go wrong with Calvin.

To satisfy the immediate need of clothing, because winter is still going, I found a shirtdress pattern.

McCalls 6600

It's got 8" of ease. This makes it look much more coat-like to me. I will be cutting that down. The photo looks like sateen but it has charmeuse recommended as the fabric to use. Something shirt weight would probably fall nicely.

My 2013 resolution is to include more details and finished photos. I've been remiss.

Happy New Year everyone! See you soon.

Sewing, knitting, Burda and Jalie

2012-11-22T09:59:00.001-06:00

It's been a while. What a tumultuous fall- I'll spare you all the details but hopefully things are settling down to allow a little sewing, knitting and cooking.

Here are some plans. (I'll be better about posting how things are going on these patterns here in the blog.)

Vogue 8825- tunic and dress (photo from Voguepatterns.com)
The tunic would be great with leggings and boots. The dress, a little shorter, would be good for our Christmas party. I've got some Missoni-isc knit I may try for this. If not, my stash has plenty of good knits that will work.

Vogue 8831 (photo from Voguepatterns.com)

This pattern has different options for the sleeves and hem. Although an asymmetrical hem is all the rage right now, it screams "dated" to me. So, I'll be doing a straight hem. The sleeves can be cap, 3/4 or long. Cap sleeves are cute but not practical in the winter. This will be a definite Spring top in a yellow but right now, it is going to be 3/4 length sleeves. OT: Don't you hate when your sleeves get dirty around your hands? I love the look of fingerless gloves but mine would be constantly dirty. Grosses me out...

Back to the topic at hand-

I've taken up kickboxing and would like some more workout pants. These can be so expensive in the stores. Jalie has a great yoga pants pattern that I'm going to try. These are almost identical to the high end pants. I like the idea of the top but would want to lengthen it until the abs become rock solid;)

Jalie 3022

On the needles:

I don't know if you can tell, I'm totally loving the big sleeve look right now. Very bohemian. This design is by Heather Dixon. It's called Pumpkin Pie.

Pumpkin Pie (photo slurped from Ravelry, Heather Dixon design)

I'm about half way across. It's made with large needles so knitting is going super fast. I've decided to make it in Cascade 220, colorway gray.

(photo slurped from Yarn.com)

This has been put on hold until I finish a test knit for Heather. She's got a great Winter collection coming up and it promises to keep me busy. I'll share more as I can. What I can tell you is I'm using Madelinetosh yarn, DK weight in colorway Geode. It's becoming something really pretty.

Oh, Happy Thanksgiving! Off to knit and sew this long weekend. Look for more posts on the progress.

Sewing like a mad woman.

2012-07-21T16:37:00.001-05:00

My Juki went to the shop. After breaking a needle it had a funny sound so I packed her up. Meanwhile, I got lots of patterns and fabrics to make up when she came back home from the doctor.

Here are a few.

Vogue 8574

I'm making it out of a knit or Challis, possibly from Vogue Fabrics
Jersey Knit

Challis

Joann Fabric had a sale today on Vogue and Butterick patterns. No Vogue this go-around but found a few Butterick. Wish all the ones I wanted were available. I'm starting the transition into fall so most of the colors are darker but still lightweight enough to wear for August and September weather.

First, B5643

The plan is make this dress in a nice dark red knit with the little jacket. I think I'll belt it as well.

Next, B5489

I've got a purple knit planned for this one. It looks comfortable but can be dressed up with the right accessories and shoes.

Another one, B5456

This one is going to be made with a red knit and yellow and red print challis. Darn it if it didn't say dry clean. So, who washed it before she realized it? We'll see if it is a hot mess when it dries... This pattern looks like it will need some modification; namely, a belt or tie. I might lower the neckline as well to make it a little less dowdy for my taste. Since I've got DDs, a high neckline isn't good but neither is too much cleavage.

B5642
Although I don't have any plans for this one, I loved the pattern. I can see it in a black knit with contrast binding and modesty panel. This could be the perfect dress for a daytime wedding this fall.

Not Fall!!!

2012-04-22T12:20:00.002-05:00

Yes, I need to plan ahead. Here's the plan for the spring, summer and fall of 2012. Ambitious? Maybe.

Needles:

I'm entering the "MadMay2012" event on Ravelry. Yes, I've gotten a little stash of yarn but really, it's not a lot. So, I'll be knitting that down a bit.

Here's my MadMay2012 entry:

Vodka Lemonade
Photo by Caro Sheridan

Yarn: Madelinetosh DK in Baltic
Slurped photo from HappyKnits.com

Vine Bolero by Emily Johnson

http://www.eatsleepknit.com/cshop/product/Vine-Bolero-by-Emily-Johnson/3081/

Photo slurped from ESK...

I'm planning on making this for a wedding in October out of Madelinetosh Carmine

Before the bolero, I will be making a vest and finishing some projects. This vest is by Wendy Bernard and published in "Custom Knits 2". I always need a little top to go over a cami or tank top but something not too hot. My thoughts are I'll add sleeves- little cap sleeves maybe.
Photo Slurped from Wendy Bernard's book

Now, what yarn to use? I've got a nice orange color called "Citrus". It may be yelling at me to make it into this vest.

On to the sewing.

My husband and I are attending 3 weddings this season (two in KC and 1 in SC) and I have a class reunion (I won't tell you how long it's been). I'm really looking forward to the wedding in SC. I've known this man for 12 years, amazing huh? He's such a wonderful person. Who knew he would find the love of his life in SC while he lived in KC? I'm so happy for him: words can not express my happiness. If I had a daughter, I'd want him to be with her, so respectful and caring, honestly a good man. I'm so glad I know him and can see him marry a wonderful woman... Sorry, back to the task at hand.

The dresses-

As many of you know, I quit getting Burda- difficult tracing, repeats galore- yack! But, I love their designs when they're fresh and new. The May issue has caught my attention. There has got to be a better way to trace these confusing sheets.
(Photos below from Burda.de)

Color blocking is really in right now. I like the idea of a short dress made out of double knit from Gorgeous Fabrics. This could be really cute with some bright sandals.

This dress looks really cute on the model. Maybe something with short sleeves. I dont' think it would work for a wedding though... so I digressed.

This is totally wedding material. If I could find a nice silk print or something with a little drape. Definitely more for an evening wedding if planned right. Any suggestions on fabrics? I don't think there will be any dancing at the weddings, fyi.

I'll be blogging more to show updates now. Took a little time off for surgery and starting my business. Now I'm back to full speed. Oh, gotta make some baby gifts too.
Jennifer

A little late to the party

2012-04-08T20:06:00.001-05:00

I'm doing it. It's a 12 month challenge-

So, here's my 12 in 12 Challenge1) Jacket/Coat2) Retro dress3) Pants4) 50s skirt5) Swimsuit6) Button-down top7) Casual dress8) Stash bustin' item9) Stash bustin' item #210) Knit top11) Formal wear (this is going to be tough)12) Halloween Costume

So, to start it off with a blast, this weekend I finished up #7 with Hot Patterns Classix Nouveau Uptown/Downtown Knit Dress in an aqua blue/green (another stash fabric)#10 with a TNT pattern New Look 6807 view B in some stash busting fabric (blue rayon knit)
Here's the updated list:
1) Jacket/Coat2) Retro dress3) Pants4) 50s skirt5) Swimsuit6) Button-down top~~7) Casual dress~~8) Stash bustin' item9) Stash bustin' item #2~~10) Knit top~~11) Formal wear (this is going to be tough)12) Halloween Costume
Pictures to follow.

Test knit for Army of Knitters (AOK)

2012-03-25T20:55:00.002-05:00

It's a perfect skirt for the spring or even the summer. I got so many complements on it the first time I wore it. It's a test knit but will be out soon. Really, I wasn't sure about the color but it goes well with brown and cream. Now on to a little sewing.

It's made with Madelinetosh Worsted yarn. I love it. Oh, makes me look taller too. There is a blocking problem on the left side that I will correct so ignore it;)

Ushering in Spring

2012-03-03T16:40:00.002-06:00

It's about that time of year. Time assess the damage from the winter and veer outside. So, that's what I've done. Our outdoor furniture and cushions look tired and dirty. The grill cover has been torn and no longer serves it's purpose. Planters are empty. Time for refreshment...

So, a new set of cushions and a new grill cover are in order to sew this week.

All photos slubbed from Fabric.com.

Amy Butler laminated fabric for the grill cover (FYI, make sure they grill is cool before placing the cover on the grill- don't want to have a shrink-wrap cover)

Richloom Indoor/Outdoor fabric for cushions

Time to find an outdoor rug or better yet, make one. Pictures of the finished deck to come. What are you doing for spring?

To the Faithful Followers

2012-01-29T21:13:00.001-06:00

My apologies for not giving you more information. I've been remiss about updating the situation.

Well, here we go... I opened an office about 1 year ago. It has exhausted me to the point of anxiety and ill-health. My plan for the new year is a recovery. Don't get me wrong, it has been successful beyond expectations but at a cost. Many costs... I won't go into it but man, I'm not perfect.

So, let's get on to the sewing, knitting, crafting, fun!

I'm currently in the process of knitting Ecuador MT Ecuador. It's a beautiful yellow-orange. Pantone shows it will be in vogue through next year. I hope so. If you've ever worked with fingering weight you'll understand. I've never worked with it but it does take diligence.

On to sewing...

I have a wedding in October to plan for. So on to the Pantone charts for Fall 2012/2013 (can you believe it?). I'm thinking about a nice navy dress with a contrasting jacket, maybe a orange or purple. I'll leave that for a little bit before the wedding. Here's what I'm thinking.

http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6464-products-15234.php?page_id=528&search_control=display&list=0

When you look at the photo, you'll see how the neckline buckles. This is expected when you move, I think a nice slit with a v-shape will help make it flow better.

Although I'm a 30E, I think this might work. What do you think about making a slit at the neckline to break up the large expanse of fabric. Also, this jacket may look nice.
http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8673-products-11353.php?page_id=262

I was thinking about the 3/4 sleeves. With the collar on the left.

What do you think. It's probably going to be a late-afternoon wedding.

Thoughts?

Fabric? I'm thinking a nice gabardine or double-knit for the dress The jacket would be nice in a plaid. I don't know. Please help!

Oh, Vogue has come out with some new patterns. I love this dress. But is it too much for 43 yo woman?

I don't want to look like a hoochi-mama! let me know. Also, I could stand to lose a little weight so will it look right? By the time summer gets here I hope that last part isn't an issue. Gotta work; no hope:)

Fall is HERE!

2011-10-01T18:25:00.000-05:00

It's that time again. Cleaning out the stash, planning the sewing and knitting, getting my act together for another season. Oh, do you Pinterest? I'm big into this now for sewing/home dec/cooking inspiration. http://pinterest.com/okie2thdoctor/feed.rss Check me out:)

First it starts with the magazines. What is going to on trend this year?

Scarves- they are in again but include silks, velvets and cottons. It's not only about the knitting.
Long skirts- gored, godets, flowing. This is a rather touchy subject for someone as short as I am.
Peasant tops- gathered sleeves, wide necklines
Boots, boots, boots- all types
Kitten heels- love these shoes and still have some from when they were in vogue years past.
Bright colors- does this remind of the '80s?
Lace and layering- lace over or under as a top/jacket or cami
Ponchos/capes- I personally think this is going to be bigger next year but what do I know.

Plans:


Photo Bergere de France, poncho 119.921

Cascade.com- shade 8013

Knitting this poncho in Cascade 220. I know bright colors are on trend but staples are always necessary. Add a bright handbag to make it pop.


MustHaveBag.com (Tano)

Boots- Frye


Frye Boots- Jane (Photo Shoes.com)

Sewing plans:

Vogue 8751 pants


From Vogue.com

Fabric from Fashion Fabrics.com

Olive Green wool tricotine suiting

Taupe wool suiting

Wool/silk suiting


Camel wool suiting

(Is it obvious I need pants? Being in the field I am, skirts aren't really conducive to work in and dresses are really only for going out. Since we've cut back financially, it's not necessary to sew going-out clothes.)

Next, come the tops. Jalie has just come out with a new pattern- LOVE it!!!

http://www.jalie.com/jalie3130-womens-shirt-sewing-pattern.html
I'm thinking about a sateen shirting in the royal blue (again from Fashionfabrics.com)

Speaking of new patterns, I've been doing Fusion Fitness and now need some cool tops. This one spoke to me right off the bat. Being that I've never had kids, the nursing portion isn't necessary but I do like that she has that option for those who need it.

http://www.jalie.com/jalie3131-nursing-bra-camisole-sewing-pattern.html

This is a good start to fall. Now it's time to clear out the closet of things I haven't worn in years.

Inspiration on a shoestring budget

2011-09-11T19:16:00.000-05:00

Ok, I should be rich. I want to be rich but reality is, I'm not. So, I'm sewing this skirt for $14 and not $78. Yes, my time is worth money but with a serger I estimate the time will be about 30 min. Here's my inspiration:

(Photo courtesy GarnetHill.com)

I didn't find the exact color but something beautiful anyway- this is a close color but the one I picked is sold out. It is an 11 oz. Rayon Jersey from Gorgeous Fabrics. I love their knits- soft and light- just like RTW.

(Photos courtesy Gorgeousfabrics.com)
The pattern I selected was Simplicity 2184

(Photo courtesy SewingPatterns.com)

Simplicity 2184

I'm making view E. The Garnet Hill skirt has godets so this pattern was perfect. If you have average length legs then you will want to make a longer view to get the same effect. It's short but so am I. I would like the skirt to hit right above my knee. This view has the model wearing socks with the boots (have the boots already) but I'm going to knit a pair of "boot toppers". This might be the answer to leg warmers but they don't make the leg too warm and keep the boots from feeling sticky where they fit close.

Time: Cut-out- 10 min
   Threading the serger- 30 sec
           Piecing it together- 5 min
           Serging- 30 min
           Hemming (with narrow zig-zag)- 5 min (after hanging the skirt)
Total Time: 45min (It's a 2 hr sewing only skirt)
$14 fabric
$1.99 pattern
$25 time (ok, I want to pay myself a lot per hour:)
Total cost: $39.99 (*$78 plus shipping for the original garment)

Changes to the pattern:
I love skirts which have a wide band at the top so you can wear it shorter or longer or even roll it over the skirt. So, I made a waistband 3" wide to add on top of the skirt. Gentle gathers on the sides were added to make the turn-down more gathered.

Conclusion: Time to find a nice cardigan. I'm so glad they are back in vogue. I used to be called "twinset girl" because that's what I always wore. They are back again and perfect for so many occasions. I have an embroidery design of a Koi fish that would look great on a nice dark cardigan. Time for some shopping for things I won't be making!

More photos when it's finished.

Decisions, Decisions

2011-08-21T21:34:00.000-05:00

I've let myself go. Ok, it feels better to say it. Where did the woman go 15 lbs ago in such a short period of time. Ok, laugh. My friend did Boot Camp and looks like a million bucks!! I'm jealous and a little ashamed. That was me a mere 5 years ago. Now, I work long hours and can come up with many excuses. Who wants to sew for the "new" person I've become? Sigh.

So, not to wallow in pity. What in the world am I going to do to kick start myself back into what I can be? Do I commit to running nightly again? Yep, I now run a whole mile and that's it if I get to it at all. Eating- yeah, when I do it's dinner and then some coffee throughout the day. I could eat better too. See, I've fallen apart.

Well, to address other things I've been doing- dropping the Burda magazine. I once loved it and couldn't wait for the new issues. Now, I don't even look at them when they arrive. The pattern sheets are frustrating and the styles are far from spectacular. La Mia Boutique is better but I haven't traced a pattern yet.

Knitting: I'm almost done with my first lace project. It has been a very bumpy road. It was frogged 10 times and is being finished with errors. It has to be finished this time or it will never be done. On to simpler projects. I must admit, it wasn't hard but why did I have trouble? On to another project of written instructions and predictable fitting/knitting.

Now, what to sew? I love dresses but work in an environment where it is nearly impossible to wear them. We, as dentists, must sit in a somewhat stance resembling the splits. Yes, a long skirt is fine but try working in one and not dragging the ground when you sit. I really don't want my skirt to drag on the floor in a dental operatory- yuck. Slacks are fine but look at paragraph 1 and get back to me.

Yes, I could sew tops and am in desperate need of them to wear with the tight slacks I own. How fast can I get back into shape safely? It's depressing- frustrating, especially since my sinuses are constantly clogged and getting my breath is difficult. Oh to be so negative- believe me, I see the glass half full the majority of the time.

Where to go from here?

Cleaning up some things

2011-07-17T22:23:00.000-05:00

When is there a better time to take an inventory of what you have and clean up a little? No better time then when it's 100 degrees F? Well, that's what I did. Amazon got some listings, Ravelry got their share too. I'm no longer a member of PR so no classifieds there. I've decided to rid myself of a few of the BWOF. Most of the issues I have are from 2008 to present. If you're looking for one, message me. I'll look to see if I have it.

Time to clean things up. It's nice to see space where other things once occupied. Next comes the basement... not much to sell there. The fabric has been destashed already. A few skeins/hanks of yarn but mostly garage sale stuff. Anyone need a wedding dress???

Hayley Hoodie

2011-05-31T08:46:00.000-05:00

Finally, pictures! The Hayley Hoodie was finished a few weeks back and I've finally taken ~~really bad~~ camera photos for your viewing enjoyment. It's also reviewed on Ravelry.

This is my first garment and I learned a few things. First off, mark your rows. It seems so obvious now... Next bind off in purl.

I love this hoodie and will be making it again for friends. The hoodie is behind the garment in this shot so it looks odd. The way the light was coming in the window it looks worn. Really, it's the clouds.

Hoodie is behind so it's lumpy.

Photos of me wearing someday...

Time Flies

2011-05-28T08:31:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's really been since April 30th. The Haylay hoodie is done and I've worn it several times with multiple compliments. No pictures- camera battery charger is MIA.

Starting on the wedding dress. After several responses, I've decided to wear the turquoise dress from the Montana wedding but will wear the shift for dinner that night. I feel like such a princess to be switching outfits for one event.

Knitting-wise I started this top:
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/v-neck-lacey-tunic

Photo slurped from her website

This is something I want to finish for my birthday celebration. I think it will cute with little cap sleeves so I'm going to try to figure out out to make them from this pattern. I think I might just extend the shoulder portion and add increases to make a sleeve. Still thinking on this one since I'm still very new to knitting. It's a beautiful pattern and is knitting up quickly so wish me luck. Oh, the yarn, it's this one by Cascade Cotton Rich DK: (I know, no originality in regards to color...)

Pictures of the progress on the shift this weekend... if I can find the charger. ARGH!

Wedding Dilemma

2011-04-30T15:47:00.000-05:00

Is it appropriate to wear a sleeveless black dress to a daytime wedding? My mother-in-law is getting married in the early afternoon in a small chapel wedding and I'm contemplating on wearing this pattern.
(Photo courtesy of Voguepattern.mccalls.com)

Vogue 8647

The newest magazine had a great idea for a little black dress with lace overlay- perfect for summer. So, I got black crepe and a beautiful lace with a little sparkle. Now I'm second guessing myself. Should I have gotten the champagne crepe instead? I don't want to look like I'm mourning at the wedding.

So, fellow sewists and non-sewists alike, is it appropriate to wear black to a daytime wedding?

Another Little Girl's Dress

2011-04-23T16:19:00.000-05:00

New Look 6819 (Courtesy SewingPatterns.com)

I can't believe this is discontinued. Talk about an easy and creative pattern. This fabric is from Joann Fabric, Etc.

I can't say I looked at the directions other than to determine the length of the straps. Adorable and easy pattern.

On to the little boy's shirt...

Dress Done!

2011-04-17T15:54:00.000-05:00

First item in months that I've started and finished.

(Photo Courtesy New Look)

The dress is made of quilting cotton, lined with cotton batiste and biased with polka dot cotton. I love the feel of the batiste. I lined it to help it keep it's shape, hide seams and make it less see-thru. I always worry that a dress that is too light will not look right when worn. Hopefully it won't be too hot for the little girl.

The buttons are pink and green with swirls and polka dots. Boy, are buttons expensive now days... I added a piece of ribbon on the back since I don't have labels at this time.

Finished dress. Quick project. I hope she likes it:)

What's on the needles, both sewing and knitting

2011-04-14T09:05:00.000-05:00

I will force my mojo back one way or another! After a wadder that derailed me completely, I've been promising myself to get back on the horse and forget the past. (still waiting) To those who have been so patient as to follow me through this frustrating time, it will pay off.

So, without preamble, I present the projects of April...

(Courtesy Simplicity.com)

Definitely not for selfish me but rather a friend's little girl. It will be a cotton covered with strawberries and accent piping.

Next, a boys shirt with Thomas the Tank Engine cotton.

Photos after the projects are finished. I'm hoping to get them cut-out and done this weekend since the weather is going to be less than favorable.

To the knitting needles...

Currently I'm working on the Hayley Hoodie by C2Knits

(Photo courtesy C2Knits.com)

This is on the needles using Berroco Vintage in Blueberry.

(Photo courtesy Yarn.com)

I'm loving the blueberry color. It's a deep royal blue. The yarn is a little splitty and not twisted tightly. This does make it nice as far as blocking and elasticity so it is a "go-to" yarn for me. The hoodie isn't hard but being a little of a literal person, I mistook some of the instructions and had to contact the designer. She is a huge help and responds quickly.

Next on the needles this month, is Strawberry Social from Verena Knitting.

(Photo courtesy Verena Knitting.com)

The yarn is still up for grabs. I'm thinking a nice cotton/silk but still unsure. It is calling for a DK weight yarn. My dream yarn is Madelintosh but I don't want an $80 tank for summer. Craziness!

Finishing up some knitting

2011-04-03T20:45:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'm finishing up the Queensland sweater that I've posted on Ravelry here. I'm just about done with one front but have the ribbing and belt left to do. It's really not bad as far as cabling is concerned but this is my first attempt. I'm making it out of Cascade 220 Heather in Corodovan. In real life the color is a rich mahogany red-yum. It's not a green as the picture portrays.

Since I've gotten a little bored and ready for Spring, I have started a quick project by C2Knits. It's called the Haley Hoodie. Hoodie

I'm using the following yarn: Cascade 220 in Twilight Blue. In real life it's very royal blue. It doesn't feel like wool so I really like it. Unfortunately I bought it when it wasn't on sale. Now it's on sale at Yarn.com.

On Ravelry there is a lace knit-along going on. Yes, I'm reaching out and expanding my horizons. Cables for the first time ever and lace this year too.

For my lace project I picked a quick one to knit from Verena. Of course, my luck proves the same. I sold this issue 20 months ago. Figures! So, now I have to buy the magazine or pattern again. Teaches me... It's called Strawberry Social . I'm thinking of making it in a cotton but still not sure about this one. It's a DK weight yarn. I did see someone make it in a fingering weight but seriously, I don't have patience for that:)

Sewing needs are still there. Again, I need short sleeve shirts. Honestly, I have t-shirts and that's about it. Don't get me wrong, I love t-shirts but need wovens. So, be on the look-out for some nice fabric and maybe some Burda blouses this Spring.

Now on to the summer sewing. I did get a Simplicity pattern for the infinity dress. There was a store here selling them for $98- again, easy to make and will get lots of wear out of it. Burda has disappointed me this year and I think I'm going to stop my subscription. La Mia Boutique is nice but I'm at a loss for what's next for me to sew. Suggestions are appreciated. Mojo is still missing.

Couple of Things

2011-03-06T17:33:00.000-06:00

Saw this top in a magazine and thought, "I can make that." Yes, it's inspiration time.

Photo courtesy of GarnetHill.com

It appears to be a tank top with an empire waist, no side seams and 2 strips of fabric that cross in front. I don't know how the back looks but it appears that the strips continue to the back. I'd probably rather add side seams as I can't envision how the wrapping in the back would look attractive at all.

Any pattern suggestions?

Lost my sewing mojo

2011-02-13T16:55:00.000-06:00

It's been months since I wanted to sew. The machine sits waiting for me to warm it up and use it. I look at it with trepidation. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Where did it go?

I'm speculating here but think it may have started months ago. My TNT Burda changed their pattern sheets- hit number 1. Next, their styles became blah- hit number 2. Sewed a few tops that ended up trashed- hit number 3. (Others have analyzed it. They have determined I don't know what in the heck I'm doing with the other pattern companies and must be cutting out the wrong size. Another topic for another day but surely I'm not THAT big;) Finally, I got busy, the weather got bad, I got bored.

Hunting through patterns I already had yielded no increased desire. Could it be gone forever?

Welcome March, Burda. I still haven't received February, it's another bust for me but hope is eternal. My mojo is waiting for Spring.

Hello new designs of March:

Love the peplum

Wouldn't this be pretty in a silk-dupioni? I have a formal banquet in mid-March, dare I pair it with a little sheath dress? Will I have time?

A knit casual skirt- ah! I can see it pair with a hoodie and tennis shoes. A casual and definitely dated look I'm sure but all me.

Photo from Cjpatterns.com

Another drop in 1980, where's the Polo guy?

Not sure about the asymmetrical part but it looks so Springy, I couldn't resist.

I'd like to welcome back my Mojo, you've been gone far too long. Oh, saw these cute shoes too and think they would look nice with a denim skirt... just a thought.

Shoe photos from Piperlime and clothing from Burdafashion.pt

It's Snowing...

2011-02-01T18:16:00.000-06:00

My last post was hopeful for Spring but it's snowing, blizzard conditions. We've gotten over a foot so far. Unfortunately I don't knit fast enough to get it done this weekend. So, I'm not giving up on my Winter knitting. I've found Queensland Collection Book 7.

(Photos from Queensland Collection)

The cardigan is called Florence

What I like about it is it's a comfy cardi with a tie belt. Lots of great details and classic in style.

Now to the yarn...

Madelinetosh Tosh Vintage

A few colors I'm thinking about are:

Charcoal

Composition

Thunderstorm (Photos from Yarn.com)

It's superwash merino wool. The reviews say it relaxes after it's washed and dried. Because of this, I'm going to make the size small. I'm right between sizes and it looks relaxed. Really don't want it to look like it should fit my husband. Honestly, I'd like to make it in a fun color but really like the idea of having classic clothes that will last many seasons. Thunderstorm looks like a nice bluish-black and Composition looks like a variegated gray, Charcoal is a blue-gray. All are probably pretty classic but Thunderstorm looks a little more trendy. What are your thoughts?

This trend isn't good but...

2011-01-09T18:19:00.001-06:00

I blogged about the Vogue top here but it ended up...

HERE! (that's not me but I know how she feels)

Two items for the year, both trashed. I told my friend they were Wadders (not the way you'd typically say the word but think wadded up and thrown away). Sad but true. Now I have no desire to sew at all.

On the other hand, my knitting is taking off. I'm better than 1/3 of the way done with the cardigan and am planning other projects.

Nashua Handknits has some great designs:

This design is part of the Isabella collect. I love the detail. It's called Jasmine. The color definitely doesn't look good on me but I thought maybe a nice navy or lavender for the Spring???

Photo courtesy Nashua Handknits.com

Next item to consider is another design by Nashua-

This design is called Chestnut. (Photo courtesy Nashua handknits.com) I have a favorite acrylic cardigan that is toasty warm but sadly falling apart and it is very similar to this design. I would probably attempt to change the collar and make it without a closure. Any suggestions?

Jennifer

First Projects of the Year

2011-01-01T18:56:00.000-06:00

Knitting
Plymouth Yarn Company- Llama Cotton Grande 1570

Photo from Plymouth Yarn.com http://www.plymouthyarn.com/index.php?nav=cYarn.yarnDetail&yarnid=001035&searchcollection=000005&pattern_id=002125#pattern-tab
Changes to this pattern- it has significant swing to it so I'm not doing the increases. Also, it measures 42" which is way too much ease for me. I will be altering the back to narrow it but will need more of the ease through the front.

Made with Cascade 128 Superwash Chunky in Amethyst Heather

Sewing

Vogue 8634 Cowl-neck top in the long-sleeved version in a lovely turquoise jersey knit

Photo from Voguepatterns.mccall.com

I have read that this top needs a bigger cowl. I'll keep you informed regarding this alteration.

As most of you know, I'm in a fabric fast. Problem is, I don't have a warm long coat. So, the plan will be this summer to make a coat for next year and buy the fabric when it goes on sale. Does that count? Hopefully the stash will be almost depleted and the business with be busy, necessitating more fabric to purchase!