carolina fair

The biggest giveaway I have ever seen!

2012-01-25T13:01:00.004-05:00

I guess I'm not an expert on everything giveaway, because I have never seen one as big as my friend Britny invited me to be in over on her Lola Wraps blog.

I mean, there are over 40 prizes!

And it's so easy to enter (yes, I was allowed!!!). All I had to do was scroll to the bottom of the page, log in using facebook, and 'like' a bunch of super pages. Then I had about a million entries. Okay, not a million, but I was able to earn more than I could count.

I really hope I win the $35 credit to Britny's store so I can buy my girls some wraps like the beautiful one pictured above. And here are some more of my favorite prizes, just to make you want to head over there and enter...

$25 credit here, at Evie n Lizzie

oooh, $25 credit here, at my belle boutique

2 petti-rompers of my choice here!!!

$30 credit (worth 5 sewing patterns!) by jocole. I really want this one.

$25 credit at Little Lizzard King (I need this one so I can get that princess dress pattern!)

This yummy little hat!

plus I offered a month's adspace on Sew Can She

(perfect if you need more traffic to your website or blog!)

And many, many more. I could go on and on, but I'll just let you
click here to head on over there and check it out yourself !

This giveaway ends on February 1st, so don't waste any time.

Just make sure you leave at least one prize for me. ;)

What I've been stitchin' up...

2012-01-16T16:36:00.002-05:00

Long time no post, I know. The new website I started last month has been taking way more time than I had anticipated. But it has been lots of fun. I really could not be keeping up with it if I did not love sewing and web browsing so much. So in case you haven't been keeping up with the new sewing tutorial every day on www.sewcanshe.com, here are the sample items that I have sewn for it:

(in no particular order)

a dress for Cadie

some pot holders

an ear warmer for myself

a bapron that I mistakenly made way to big ;)

a 'monster 5' shirt for Connor

little valentine books

a new bag for myself

a few Christmas cards (which all got sent)

and a nice little wallet (Chloe quickly claimed this).

Links to the free tutorials for all these projects can still be found on SewCanShe.com under the tab "more Tutorials and Patterns."

Except for the Christmas cards, all of these things were sewn this year. Whew! And I'm currently working on some sweet little fabric snack bags which will be featured soon. So back to work. And I hope you all are having a new year that is just as productive!

Q&A with the Authors of One Yard Wonders, and announcing the winner...

2011-12-27T02:13:00.000-05:00

Continuing my love of the fantastic new book One Yard Wonders (Fabric By Fabric), I get to share with you a little email Q&A that I got to do with the authors, Rebecca and Trish. When I found out that I got to do this, I thought a lot about what I would ask them. I mean, if you got to ask two super crafty and super successful people that you really admired anything at all, what would you say?

So this is what I asked, and what they answered. I love their answers...

How have your lives changed since hitting it big with a bestselling sewing book plus a sequel?

Rebecca: It is very exciting to be connected to One-Yard Wonders. We never could have guessed what an amazing success it would turn out to be! We are eagerly tracking the success of Fabric-by-Fabric and hope it follows the same path as One-Yard Wonders. I love the accomplishment of both these books, and never could have done either without Trish. We were already great friends, and the books have demonstrated how well we work together and complement each other as literary partners.

Trish: I definitely feel like I've grown tremendously in my ability to read, understand, write, and edit sewing patterns & designs. I agree that it's been a GREAT partnership with Rebecca - we are a superb team. I've learned so much from her.... and from our fabulous contributors. I just love how we've connected to this great, truly global community of crafters out there. Every once in a while I still have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming.

When you get a chance to sit down and craft for the love of it, what are you most likely to work on?

Rebecca: I love to sew. Recently I decided I would make all my son's clothes. A little ambitious, I must admit. Stepping back and being realistic, it makes more sense to say I aspire to sew all my son's clothes. So far I've made a few things (t-shirts and hoodies) that we love. Beyond sewing, I love the portability and calming repetition of knitting. Currently, I'm working on knitting matching hats for my family - raccoon heads. They're very cute, and I even finished them in time for the holidays!

Trish: Lately it's been various odds and ends for my toddler son - an art smock, a tool belt for his play tools... some clothes but it seems mostly stuff that helps further his own creativity and exploration. Theoretically I would love to explore quilting much more --- but that's mostly in my head these days (lots of designs planned out, few executed).

If you had to choose between a "night out" or a "night in" which would you choose and why?

Rebecca: Without question, NIGHT OUT!! They are too few and far in between. The birth of my son coincided with the completion of the Fabric-by-Fabric manuscript, and I've been spending a lot of time at home since October 3, 2010 - both days and nights. My husband and I find ourselves "in" almost every night as babysitters can be difficult to come by. Sure we've been out in the last 14 months, but not enough! We have dance lessons we want to take! It would be great to see a movie in the movie theater! Send me an email if your available to sit....

Trish: We go out to eat a lot... with toddler in tow. Would definitely love to get out more sans child. That said, I guess I am a bit of a homebody! I have a huge backlog of books to read, movies & shows I'd like to watch, craft projects to make. Alas, the time slips by.

What do you think of the current DIY craze in our country? Do you think it's just a fad or its here to stay?

Rebecca: DIY has always been a big part of my life, it just happens to be more widespread now, and I love it!! The internet has certainly helped the success with the multitude of crafty bloggers and on-line tutorials. I love having so many inspirational projects right at my fingertips (thank you bloggers!!). Caroline, your Little Owl Bib and Tropical Fish Mittens tutorials are absolutely adorable. [Me: {blush} she read my blog!!!] I don't see the current popularity of DIY waning anytime soon, thank goodness!

Trish: If it is a fad, it's one with very long legs -- it's been going on for a very long time already and shows no sign of stopping! I think the more technologically based our society gets, people will feel even more of a need to create something with their hands; yet that same technology makes it so much easier to connect with others, find inspiration, and learn how to try new things. All signs point to the craze sticking around for a long time to come.

What are you going to do next?

Rebecca: Now that I have successfully competed crafting my holiday gifts, I'm going to rest up a bit on the DIY front and read a book or two. Hopefully also take a vacation to a warm destination to escape the winter freeze (and of course knit while on vacation!). On the book front, I think we'll enjoy a little time off to revel in Fabric-by-Fabric before diving into another One-Yard Wonders sequel - stay tuned!!!

Trish: While Crafty Planet takes up a lot of my time, alas, I'm really hoping to do a lot more on the design & crafting front - I have ideas for my own line of sewing patterns, handmade goods, not to mention our idea(s) for a One-Yard Wonders sequel. But I agree with Rebecca, a little time off to read (something NOT craft-related) and enjoy the winter weather here in Minnesota (indoors and out) will be much appreciated!

And for those of you who were just waiting to hear... the winner of the One Yard Wonders book giveaway is comment number 34 (chosen by random.org). So GSFOoL, I'm going to try to figure out how to email you. If you read this first, send me your address because you get a copy of Fabric By Fabric!

Christmas love + giveaway reminders

2011-12-22T11:56:00.000-05:00

Hey there, hope you're getting things done and wrapped up. I think we could be onto the hourly countdown by now, if someone cared to check how many hours are left until Christmas. I love the feeling of getting something finished. The satisfaction is too sweet, and the anticipation of starting a new project might be even sweeter! That's why I'm posting pictures of my Cadie's little quilt which I just finished not 10 minutes ago.

I think this is my favorite quilt that I've made so far. The color combination came out just to my liking. And that binding - well let me tell you that the quilt sandwich sat on my table for about a month with me having no inspiration to finish it. Then I saw this brown gingham in my stash and I was all excited to work on it again.

Wanna see who this is for???

This little ~~wild thing~~ I mean angel who until this (her third) Christmas had to have a generic Christmas stocking from the dollar store. Yes, sad I know.

But I finally made her the most beautiful one in the family (I stole the idea from my friend Chris' fun tutorial). And she loves it so much she wants to carry it around with her wherever we go.

And she's also getting one of these (I posted a link to Hillary Lang's tutorial on www.sewcanshe.com). BTW, if you want to make bigger mermaidens like I did, see if you can make your printer print the pattern pages out with a ratio of 1:4 (4 sheets for each page). That makes about 16" dolls from head to tails ;).

Okay, that's all the projects I have to show for right now. Don't forget we have two giveaways running right now...

You still have a few more days to enter to win the fabulous book One Yard Wonders 2. (details here)

And just a head's up, when I announce the winner on Monday I'm posting the juicy details of my own personal Q&A session with the authors, Rebecca and Trish. Don't miss it!

And over on SewCanShe.com we're giving away 2 yards of this delicious Amy Butler cotton print. You don't want to don't miss out on that either!!!

Merry Christmas!

One Yard Wonders (Fabric By Fabric) book giveaway!

2011-12-19T13:36:00.001-05:00

Sooo... look which book recently came out, and just in time for Christmas:

And do you recognize this???

The Button Up Bolero

And this???

The Pretty Pinafore

Yes, I was lucky enough to have two of my patterns selected for the new One Yard Wonders sequel. It's called Fabric By Fabric, and its STUFFED with projects using all kinds of fabric. I have been waiting so long for my copy to arrive so now I can finally try out some of those projects. I actually got one almost done on Saturday, so expect a post about that soon.

Meanwhile, the publisher (Storey Publishing) is letting me give a copy of the book away to one lucky reader. All you have to do is leave a comment below and you'll be entered.

One bonus entry is available too: just go to our sister site SewCanShe.com and sign up for the awesome newsletter so you can get a free sewing tutorial delivered to your inbox every day. (Oh, and while you do that, you'll be entering to win 2 lucious yards of Amy Butler Fabric - talk about bonus entry!) Be sure to come back to leave another comment telling me that you did.

Comments will be closed at midnight (Eastern Time) on December 25th, 2011. You must have a US Delivery address to be eligible for this giveaway. I'll choose a winner using random.org on December 26th. Who says all presents have to be given on Christmas day???

P.S. A bunch of the blog contibutors are doing a blog tour so if you want to check it out, here are the dates and links:

12/12/2011 Becka's Project Journal

12/13/2011 Craft Buds

12/14/2011 Patch Work Duck Designs

12/15/2011 Patch Work Duck Designs

12/15/2011 A Spoonful of Sugar

12/15/2011 Nifty Kidstuff

12/15/2011 Becka's Project Journal

12/16/2011 Nom Nom Nom Nom

12/16/2011 Quaint and Quirky

12/17/2011 ikatbag

12/17/2011 Two Brown Birds

12/18/2011 Sharon Sews

12/19/2011 carolina fair designs (that's me!)

12/19/2011 Under Construction

12/20/2011 Little Blue Cottage

12/21/2011 Craftzine

12/21/2011 Neuroses Galore

12/21/2011 Emily Steffen

12/22/2011 Jenna Lou Loves You

12/23/2011 Spincushion

12/27/2011 One Inch World

12/28/2011 Sew Sew Etc.

January ‘12 Lu Lu Carter

January ’12 Fiberosity

January ’12 Zuhause

January ’12 Obsessively Stiching

January ’12 No Bad Days

January ’12 Craft & Cackle

January ’12 AfricanKelli

(You can still visit and read the old ones too!)

Comments are now closed. The winner will be announced soon!

Introducing SewCanShe.com plus an Amy Butler Fabric giveaway!

2011-12-15T12:43:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to share my new site because who doesn't love something free??? For years now my browser's bookmark files have been filling up with project ideas that I need to try. It's helpful because people often ask me if I know how they can make such-and-such, and I tell them I'll just go home and email them the link to a tutorial. Well, now I get to share those tutorials with anyone who will look (or sign up for the newsletter). I'm going to update the page with a new tutorial every day, so you may want to subscribe to the newsletter so you won't miss anything. I've already contacted a bunch of my favorite tutorial writers so they know what's up, and if you have a tutorial you want to submit, there's a place for that too!

And, here's the best part... I'm giving away two yards of this most beautiful fabric from Amy Butler's new Lark collection:

All you have to do is sign up for the newsletter, which I'm sure you'll want to do anyway. I mean, you'll get a new sewing tutorial delivered to your inbox every day. I'm going to rotate through the categories holiday love (for the next 10 days), home love, kid love, crafty love, and self love. Who just freaked out when I hinted that Christmas is only 10 days away? Okay, I am freaking out so I need to get back to my sewing now. Bye!

Pretty, Easy, Pillowcase (with a tutorial)

2011-11-29T13:57:00.001-05:00

When I was putting away my Amy Butler Lark fabric after making this tablet cover, I decided it was just too beautiful to stop looking at yet, so I had to make something else with it.

After rifling through my stash I found some vintage crocheted lace that I picked up a yard sale last year. Suddenly I was inspired to make a pillowcase. Not just any pillowcase, but one fit to be made into a pillowcase dress someday. Because who is making the pillowcases that will be turned into dresses 50 years from now? We are, of course.

I took pictures along the way so you could see what I did...

I took 1 yard of fabric to inspire beautiful dreams plus about 42" of lace.

Then I folded the fabric right sides together along the grain and stitched the bottom and side of the pillowcase.

I turned it right side out and pressed, and then turned it inside out again and folded the raw edges down 5" and pressed.

Then I folded it down another 5" (again, rolled twice) and pressed.

I folded my lace in half right sides together and layed it on the pillowcase cuff to measure. Then I marked it with a pin where I stitched to make a loop the same size as the pillowcase opening.

I turned the pillowcase right side out again, being careful to leave the cuff neatly pressed on the inside and I pinned the lace to the outside 1/2" from the top, with the part of the lace I want to show pointing downward.

I stitched close to the edge of the lace here.

More pressing.

Notice that I enclosed the raw edge of the pillowcase so if anyone should happen to look inside, that part will look pretty and neat.

Topstitching.

Now I imagine it being turned into a "vintage" pillowcase dress someday for some great niece. Love.

(the pillowcase dress pattern can be found here)

Linky parties:

Tablet cover for me!

2011-11-29T10:05:00.001-05:00

Thanks to black-friday specials and a very generous dad (thank you!!!!!) I desperately needed to sew a case for this cute little tablet computer. If you google kindle cover or ipad cover there are tons of tutorials and I picked this one because I wanted something I could leave on the tablet while I used it (opposed to the little pouch type which is also nice), plus I loved the way you could stand it up.

The tutorial is found here at chicaandjo.com. Instructions are included for customizing the pattern to any size device, which is just what I needed.

This is the first time I cut into my new Amy Butler Lark fabric which is just so delicious I want to save it all for myself.

My own little alterations to the pattern included pin fitting the bottom pocket to the device before I stitched the sides so it wouldn't gape.

And adding an extra piece of elastic at the top of the device to hold it in better. You probably wouldn't need this except that I made the bottom pocket tiny so it wouldn't hide the screen.

Oh, and now you see why I love the stand feature. This little baby will sit right in between my machines so I don't have to get up and look at the computer while I follow all the nifty blog tutorials out there ;).

And, since I have this odd habit of sewing in batches of 2 or 3, I made an extra one. I know just who to give it to and that's another name checked off my list (ho, ho, ho!).

Happy Christmas sewing!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T17:43:00.001-05:00

Three days of cooking and baking have culminated in a feast of turkey, ham, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, three kinds of cranberries, relishes, potatoes, and then the dessert...

Family has come from near and far to gather and visit and soon the shopping will begin! I love getting out there in the middle of the night to get those good deals.

My etsy shop is now running it's annual black friday sale with any two patterns for $10.

I hope that somehow the frenzy to get more stuff won't make us less thankful for what we have already been blessed with!

Chloe's secrets to perfect sugar cookies.

2011-11-20T22:45:00.001-05:00

Tonight I had to make sugar cookie stars for my second grader's school class to decorate tomorrow. I made the dough early and let it sit in the fridge for 3 hours to get firm. But then when I tried to roll it out and cut out some cookies the dough was sticking everywhere, I was ruining every star trying to get it off the table, and my two year old was sticking her little chubby hands in everything.

I was getting ready to scream when I heard a calm little voice beside me say "just sit down mom and let me help you. I'm really good at making cookies."

I thought about it for a second and then backed away because she was right, she is good at making cookies, better than me, and she is only 6 1/2.

So I washed my hands, picked up the camera, and decided to get some pictures while she did all the work.

After she rolled out some dough and cut out 6 perfect cookie stars, Chloe decided to share with me her cookie-making secrets:

"First, mom, you have to put lots of flour on everything - the table, the rolling pin, the dough, and your hands."

"The second thing is you have to be happy. When you're frustrated, you don't make good cookies."

And she's right. She didn't even mind her little sister helping.

Little sister totally agreed with the lots of flour theory.

"My hands are really good with dough. I was just born like that."

I'm so glad.

Another cute version of Cadie's top, plus some naked babies...

2011-11-18T09:01:00.001-05:00

Okay, good morning all of you who are just getting up from a twilight induced hangover. If you don't know what I'm talking about then I think I'm happy for you. I'm not sure how I feel about this installment. It was... too graphic and... too graphic. Honestly I had to put my head down between my knees at one point because I thought I might pass out and that has never happened to me in a movie before. But I'm not usually sitting in a movie theatre at 2 in the morning either so maybe that has something to do with it.

Anywho... I am so happy that another one of my patterns just got reviewed. Kristen over at Three In The Nest has made her own "top" version of my pattern Cadie's Wrap Around Dress and Top. It's so darling with a little bunny applique on it and you get to see her own little Caroline modelling it. (pssst... love the name ;) ). And, she's hosting a giveaway, so head on over for your chance to get the pattern for free.

And here's a hint of what I've been working on lately...

Chloe found a stray piece of hair on the floor one morning (I guess it escaped my super-secret project bag) and guessed that I'm making mustaches. She was so excited and wanted to make sure that I was making her one too.

Um, okay, sure I'll make you one too babe. Now let me take your picture. Can you tell my kids like to dress up? I guess it doesn't matter what the costume is.

While I'm having a mom moment going on about my kids and how much they love to dress up... I think this one really annoyed his second grade teacher with what he wore for picture day a couple weeks ago:

But it was his idea and I couldn't discourage it, what with the shuttle program getting cancelled and all :(. And I have to admit I really like how the picture turned out. He's gonna be the coolest one in their little elementary school yearbook this year. Does anybody actually buy those?

Making your own rib-knit waistband.

2011-10-31T17:12:00.000-04:00

I know it's technically Halloween today, but all our costumes are done, so I got started on my Christmas sewing (yay!) by making these soft and comfy pj pants. I've made a bunch of things lately with rib knit waistbands (underwear, a skirt, shorts) so I thought this pattern might be cute with one too.

This is a waistband that I really like because it's cute and comfortable and easy to adapt to almost any skirt or pants pattern that would normally have an elastic casing. If you are worried about it holding the pants or skirt up,
you can still put elastic inside.

the same waistband on a little skirt

I started with this pattern that I picked up a while ago at goodwill for 59 cents. It's not bad but I thought the legs turned out kinda wide for my taste. I shouldn't be surprised because look at those wide legs in the picture! If you want an easy basic pj pants pattern for kids, check mine out here.

The first thing you should do is locate the waistline on the pattern. It is probably marked on both pieces (the front and back) or mentioned in the instructions. (Note: On my PJ Bottoms or Shorts Pattern, the waistline is 1 1/4" from the top of the pattern piece.) Calculate that you will add a 3" waistband so you want to cut the pattern off 2 1/2" below the waistline (that will leave you a 1/2" seam allowance).

I didn't actually cut the pattern off (just in case I wanted to use it later), but I did fold it back 2 1/2" below the waist mark.

Then lay your shortened pattern pieces onto your fabric and cut them out.

Next cut out the waistband from rib-knit material. Cut it 7" tall and the width a couple inches smaller than the actual waist measurement of the intended wearer. I used the basic rib-knit that you can find at joanns. It is not 100% cotton, so it has good recovery. That means it won't totally stretch out and you can trust it to hold your pants up. If you are using something with 100% cotton or you're not sure, just cut a piece of elastic the same length and you can stick it in.

At this point, stitch the pants together except for the waistband and hem (refer to your pattern).

Fold the waistband right sides together and stitch the short (7") ends together. Serging is not necessary, but it's quick.

Now fold the waistband in half lengthwise with the wrong sides on the inside. Mark the waistband into quarters. If you are using elastic, stitch it into a circle now. Then just slip the circle inside. You can use any size elastic here, really, from 1/4" to 2". I didn't use elastic for these pants, and they turned out fine.

Pin the waistband to the outside of the pants or skirt, pinning your quarter marks at the front, back and sides of the garment. The seam should be in the back, of course.

I like to stitch this part on my sewing machine first, and serge second because you need to stretch the waistband to fit the pants as you go.

Finish the hem and you're done! I still might take some off of the outside of that pantleg. What do you think, too wide?

New Jazz Shorts Pattern - and its FREE!!! Plus a coupon code for The Fabric Fairy

2011-10-13T16:51:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to announce that my latest pattern is ready, and I've decided to give it away for free.

If your little girl takes dance then you will be so excited to find out that you can make those cute little jazz shorts yourself. And you can use cuter fabric than anyone has seen.

Hint, hint: all of these shorts were made with high-quality knits from The Fabric Fairy. This is my treasured site for the best knits around. If you remember, they sent me the fabric for Chloe's Olivia the Pig Outfit. The company just changed ownership, but the new owner Megan is very sweet and helpful. I can't wait to see all the new fabrics she's putting up.

Today and tomorrow you can use coupon code freshstart15 to get 15% off.

I just found this adorable knit which would make another pair of super trendy jazz shorts:

Or, if your dance studio has a strict dress code, you can make standard ones too.

This is a very easy pattern that can be made using any knit fabric that has lycra. Swimsuit fabrics work great. In fact, when I get a little time (haha) I'm planning on making swim tops that match these babies so my girls can swim in them.

Dancing around the house always works too.

By the way, this pattern comes in sizes 2T to 12. Now get downloading!

Abby in her Tropical Fish Mittens (free pattern)

2011-10-10T12:26:00.001-04:00

My sister just texted me a picture of her Abby wearing the tropical fish mittens I made for her two years ago!

I'm so tickled that she's still wearing them, and amazed it's already that cold where they live. I guess I shouldn't be though, it's Idaho ;). I love the way that we keep handmade gifts longer than others. It's just so difficult to get rid of something knowing the person who worked hard making it.

In case you haven't seen it, the Tropical Fish Mitten Pattern is a free download on my website! Check it out!

Napping?

2011-09-17T22:05:00.000-04:00

The other day I decided to take pictures of my two littlest ones taking their naps. But then I found that they weren't sleeping, so I told them to pretend. Here's what I got:

Then I went in again when they really were sleeping, and it was just as sweet.

That little dress I made using New Look 6195 (got it at goodwill for 59 cents so I don't even know if it's in print anymore). But I modified it so much, that it's probably not even worth mentioning the name of the pattern. Forget I said anything. It is also the "yucky dress" that I blogged about a few months ago, but for some strange reason Cadie picked it out of her dresser and wanted to wear it.

Connor's wearing the Fishsticks curved raglan pattern that I love. It's like a basic tee but cuter and easier. I keep making them because my kids keep choosing them as their favorites.

Do you like the peanut butter all over both of them? I really should wash them up better before naps.

___________

And I just used random.org to pick the winner of the My Memories Digital Software Suite. It's Angie from Mama Lusco Handmade. You should be getting an email about it soon, Angie!

Carl's scrapbook

2011-09-17T10:21:00.003-04:00

Today is the last day to enter to win a copy of the MyMemories Digital Scrapbooking Suite. I thought I'd show you some of the pages my 7 year old son made.

After I showed him how to use the basic templates, embellishments, and word art feature, he just wanted to be left alone.

He scavenged his favorite pictures from our computer and iphones, and then figured out how to put in some pictures he's been drawing in paint.

I told him when he had about 39 pages, I'd order him a book.

[I'm on the email list at artscow.com. Their stuff is dirt cheap. His 39 page book will only cost me $12.99 including shipping. But you have to get on the email list for those codes. And the products come from Hong Kong so don't expect anything too quickly. I waited 2 months once!]

So click here to enter to win this cool software. I'm picking the winner around 10 tonight.

First dance class

2011-09-15T13:17:00.002-04:00

Don't forget to enter to win a copy of My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Suite (previous post)! There's only two days left to enter. All week long my 7-year old has been working on his own scrapbook that I'll have to order soon. It's that easy.

_____________________

The unfortunate little sister.

Cadie has been watching her older sister take dance class for her whole 2-year life. But today was her day to finally be on the other side of the glass. Really. I had to take pictures through smudgy, finger-printy glass. But it was worth it.

Today, Cadie was the princess fairy...

invited to the tea party...

the one who got to try new things...

see how pretty she is...

and look at all the people from that side of the glass...

Cadie's little petal filled tutu is one that my sister and I made together and it's blogged about here. Tutu cute.

MyMemories Software Review and Giveaway

2011-09-09T23:09:00.000-04:00

As all of you know, I love to sew. Sewing is what relaxes me, inspires me, and keeps me sane. I admire scrapbookers and the lovely way they preserve family memories, but I just can't get into it because I'd rather be sewing. About once or twice a year, however, I go to one of those online photo book sites and throw a bunch of pictures together in a book (I always have tons of pictures) so I can feel like I am preserving our family's memories too. This is technically called digital scrapbooking and there are just as many (if not more) digital papers, doo-dads, and sparkly things to make your pages special. But, sad to say, making beautiful pages is not a talent I have developed much because, well, I'd rather be sewing.

So I was a pretty surprised when Liz from MyMemories.com emailed me and asked if I wanted to test their digital scrapbooking software. I mean, of course I would love to (it's past time that I made another family picture book), but could I make anything cute enough? Would I really want to stop sewing to do it?

But I answered yes because she also offered a free software package for one of my readers too. Plus a coupon code for $10 off! I downloaded the software and then quickly added to my starter set of "scrapbooking stuff" a bunch of free downloads that they also offer.

After I got started, I was continually amazed at how easily I could put together cute pages. I guess I'm used to how s l o w the online photo book programs work, and having it installed on my computer made things so much easier.

Long story short, I haven't been able to sew for 2 days and nights now because I have been glued to the computer making digital scrapbook pages. And more. First I made a 45 page book. Then I saw that I could make it iPod (and iPhone) ready so I added music and exported it that way. Then I started making jpegs. I mean, really the possibilities are endless. You can even print the pages yourself.

Then I discovered that I could also open up the other digital papers and doo-dads that I already have and use them too.

So... for this to be a fair review of the software, here's my list of pro's and cons:

Pros:
It is easy to use and very intuitive - like it knows what you want before you do.
It's specialized just for scrapbooking - LOTS of options for making unique pages.
It organizes all of the doo-dads and sparkly things (as well as word art) so you can pile them on almost effortlessly.
You can export right to their site to order books and calendars, or export in other formats (.jpg, .mov, etc.)
When you download extras from MyMemories.com, it installs them automatically into the program.

Cons:
It is way faster than online digital scrapbooking, but I would still love it to be faster.
I did have it crash once, but to be fair, I was trying to do about 5 things at once (and it had backed up my album so I didn't lose anything when I restarted - very nice)
You can edit pictures some, but not in great detail like Photoshop (but my photos were already edited so this didn't bother me).

Here are some of my pages (don't be too critical, remember, I'm a sewer not a scrapbooker!):

Now I can't wait to give a copy of this software away to one of you! Here are all the ways you can enter:

First entry: visit www.MyMemories.com and choose a favorite scrapbooking kit. Tell me what it is in the comments. (Mine is A to Zoo, I'm gonna have to get it!)

Bonus entries {for each one, make a new comment telling me what you did}:

Like MyMemories.com on Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/mymemoriessuite

Follow the MyMemories blog- http://blog.mymemories.com/

Like carolinafair on Facebook.

Follow this blog.

This giveaway will run until next Saturday September 17th. Around 10:00 pm I'll use a random number generator to pick the winner from all the comments (only one entry per comment, so make multiple comments for your bonus entries!). If I don't already have your email address, please leave it.

Hope you win! But if you don't, use coupon code STMMMS67750 to get $10 off the MyMemories Software Suite. That's over 25% off. Good luck!

Comments are closed on this giveaway, but the coupon code is still valid.

Tutorial for a Cute Ruffle-back Sundress (plus a coupon code for 83% off the pattern!)

2011-09-04T21:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Labor Day!!! To make this a day of sewing for all of us, my friend April wrote this darling tutorial for tweaking Cadie's Wrap Around Dress to add a back full of ruffles. And I'm offering this pattern for only $1 this week only. Scroll to the bottom to get the coupon code. :)

Hi! I'm April and I blog over at Wildflowers & Whimsy! I absolutely love Caroline's Cadie Wrap Around Dress! I just think it it sooo adorable, but if you have ever visited my blog, you know I also LOVE ruffles!!! And if you haven't been to my blog, just let me tell you, I LOVE RUFFLES!!!! So, I decided to add ruffles to the back of the dress. I think it's a really simple and fun addition!

Here's what I did:

**Note: Please know that some of my pics don't match up exactly to what I am telling you to do. I had a lot of trial and a lot of error, so this is more of a "do as I say, not as I do" tutorial! lol**

Cut out the dress according to the pattern. Then, cut out the center right at the front and back neckline, so that you now a front and back instead of one piece.

Since we changed the style to a sundress, the front and back neckline will be too wide now so you will need to gather them...I just sort "eyeballed" it, as they say... ; )

Next, I cut out two straps.

9m-18m ~ 4" x 7"

2 - 4 ~ 4" x 8"

5 - 8 ~ 4" x 9"

Fold them in half long ways and press.

Open it back up and fold the raw edges to the center crease and press.

Now, fold it back closed, press and edge stitch down each side.

Now attach them to each side of the front of the dress like this, but the part that will attach to the back should be pointing to the bottom of the dress...not up like in this pic. In other words the raw edges should be touching.

Now finish the edges of the FRONT of the dress with bias tape according to the instructions. Then, press the straps up like they are in this pic and top stitch across the top edge to tack them up and in place.

Fold the back piece like this and press the sides to make creases...you will only add ruffles in between the creases. Measure between the creases and multiply that number by 2, so if it's 8 inches btwn the creases, you will cut your ruffles 16" long.

Now decide how long you want your ruffles to be, and divide the height of your back piece by that number.

EX: you want your ruffles 3" and your pattern piece is 21" from top to bottom. 21 / 3 =7

So you would cut 7 - 3.5" x 16" rectangles for your ruffles (the extra half inch in the height is for seam allowance to attach the ruffles.) I recommend either cutting your ruffles on the bias or using pinking shears so you don't have to worry about finishing all those egdes. You can see below I used pinking shears...I think it added a cute detail...

Gather your ruffles along the top edge, and attach them to the back of the dress between the creases. Now, I have a confession. I can NEVER figure out how to properly space ruffles! So, I just lay them out from bottom to top pinning as I go and just sort of "eyeballing" like I said before. Then, once I have them all placed how I like, I stitch them down.

Once, you have all your ruffles stitched in place, attach the straps and finish the edges with bias tape just as you did for the front of the dress. Make sure at the top where the ruffles go all the way to the edge of the pattern piece you put the edges of the ruffles under the bias tape so that they don't stick out...trust me it looks weird...

Last add the closures according to the directions and you are done!

**Note: If you want to use ricrac like I did on the edges, apply it on top of the bias tape...not instead of like I did!...seriously made myself a headache when I did that!**

Thanks for having me Caroline! Hope y'all enjoy!

April

wildflowersandwhimsy.com
wildflowersandwhimsy.etsy.com

...and here's the coupon code so you can get the pdf pattern for Cadie's Wrap Around Dress for just $1 and make a little ruffle-back sundress for your own little girlie girl. Just visit my website www.carolinafairdesigns.com and after you put Cadie's Wrap Around Dress & Top in your cart you can use coupon code 'cadieforadollar' to get the price reduced to $1. This coupon code will only work until Saturday, September 10, 2011, so don't wait! If you want to buy it in my etsy shop instead, put the coupon code in the notes to seller section so I can refund you $4.95 (etsy won't let me make the right kind of coupon code for this). Happy Labor Day everyone!

Keeping up

2011-09-02T21:09:00.000-04:00

I have decided to sew all of my kids clothes. At least for a while. Until I can't keep up with what they need or until they grow too old to wear clothes that "mom made". I'm hoping that last part doesn't happen for a long time.

This evening in the backyard I got pictures of some things I have made lately. I have gotten into a comfortable routine of tracing or printing up patterns and cutting fabric a few nights a week and then during the day when I get time I can sit down at the sewing machine and serger for a bit.

This one I actually cut out last night and stitched up before preschool this morning:

I love this pattern for my boys. It is one of Bonnie's from Fishstick's Designs. It is easy to cut, easy to sew, and always looks nice. And, if you make it from other shirts (like his from a new unwanted white tee and a blue golf shirt that didn't fit Dad) you can make good use of pre-hemmed edges. That's how I could put it together so fast.

Here's a little skirt I made so many mistakes on that I can't believe it still looks so cute. I mean, there's 4 rows of ruffles on the front,

only 3 rows of ruffles on the back (I ran out too soon), and they go around and around in a crooked, wobbily way. I really wasn't trying that hard because I hated the fabric to begin with (Chloe found it in the bargain section at JoAnns and I gave in because it was only $2/yd). It's like gold lame with snowflakes. And she looks like a rockstar wearing it. Go figure.

And here's Cadie. This is a little tee from another Ottobre back issue (3/2009, I think). I can't have enough white shirts for my girls. They just go with everything and under everything when it's cold.

My favorite part of this shirt is the little puffy sleeves. I think I'll be making it again soon.

That's it for now. Happy back-to-school, everyone!

Chlo...livia!

2011-08-23T21:54:00.009-04:00

Over a year ago I posted a picture of the childrens' book character Olivia and wrote about how I finally found the fabric to sew my daughter Chloe an outfit like Olivia's. It is a red jumper with red and white striped leggings and red and white striped shirt. Well, turned out that when I took a closer look at the picture on fabric.com, it was just not going to be right (stripes too narrow) so I didn't order it and I put that little project off until I could find the perfect striped knit fabric.

I had almost given up when surprise! I got a piece of the perfect stuff in this "bonanza box" of solid and striped knits from the fabric fairy (my kids had no idea there was such a person and were in absolute awe). And, on the same day I received an issue of Ottobre that had the perfect pieces for this outfit. Chloe wanted me to make it immediately. She's learning to imagine how fabric and patterns will turn out and I love it.

I love how it turned out. You can't see it, but there's a little pocket on the front yoke like Olivia's. I had to shorten the sleeves because the fabric was just not big enough to squeeze all the pieces on there without alteration. I'm not too disappointed about that because she can wear the shirt now without waiting for cold weather.

I also put black trim on the shirt (another deviation from Olivia's) because I thought it would look cuter when she wore it with jeans or black pants. And isn't that pants design funny? I hated it in the magazine and only made it because I could use solid red for part of the pants and still have just enough striped fabric to 'make it work' :). Now, however, I love the pants! It kind of looks like she's wearing red shorts with leggings underneath. (sorry for the fuzzy pics. I hate using flash in the house.)

Then, right before bedtime, the fabric fairy showed up...

Yes, my daughter called herself the fabric fairy. She is going to love fabric as much as I do.

baby arctic seal bunting

2011-08-18T11:21:00.000-04:00

This week I finished up something that I have been gradually gathering materials for and looking forward to making. When I saw this in last year's Winter Ottobre Issue, my first thought was, who would be crazy enough to make that? But then each time I looked at it, I realized that I already had the fur, and the fleece, and the babycord. Still, my youngest is 2 and way too old for a baby bunting, even if we do get a week next February when the temps drop below freezing (I so love Florida!). And then I remembered that I have a sister who lives waaayyy up north and is expecting a baby next month. So I put an end to the internal struggle and just made it.

Anyone who may have eavesdropped on me sewing this project would have periodically heard me squeal "oooo, sooo cute!" I honestly wanted to keep it for Cadie because...

if she doesn't stretch out her legs...

or her arms...

or try to walk...

then she'd be soo adorable this winter. For the whole week of it. :) No, I'll send it to Julie.

Jean jacket version of the Button Up Bolero

2011-08-16T10:12:00.001-04:00

This morning my friend Dominique (who lives in Belgium) emailed me a photo of her re-make on the Button Up Bolero. As you can see, the basic shape is there but she made some very cute alterations! It looks like she doubled up on the fabric to make a lining and used some cute cotton and denim instead of fleece. Then I think she just sewed the seams together instead of all buttons. And of course that adorable ruffle. I'm thinking about trying this now. Thanks for sharing Dominique!

The Easy Ruffle Shrug pattern is done!

2011-08-12T15:36:00.001-04:00

This pattern would have been ready a month or so ago, but one of my testers had such a great suggestion - a closure of some kind - that I had to develop that idea before I could consider the pattern done. I am so thrilled by how the ribbon ties look that I put that particular jacket on the front cover. See?

I owe a big thank you to my sister Kat for help with the pictures, and also to the fabulous testers who gave me lots of great feedback and ideas.

And, of course, to my girly girls who have a dresser full of little shrugs now - and they actually wear them!

Connor's Playsuit

2011-08-03T17:20:00.003-04:00

Isn't it fun when kids are still young enough to let you impose your sense of humor on their wardrobe? He he. I finished Connor's little velour playsuit today and he was so excited to wear it, he didn't care that it's still 90 degrees outside. I swear, if I wasn't such a chicken when it comes to my own wardrobe, I would make myself one too.

Doesn't that look comfy?

And stylish?

Here's the back. I used a pattern from the Ottobre design magazine, issue 6/2010. The fit is awesome -- all I had to do was hem the legs and arms a bit more than called for. The pattern was a bit time consuming, but sooo worth it. I found this stretchy striped velour on fabric.com. Another lucky break for not seeing and feeling it beforehand. I only bought 2.5 yards and wish I had way more... for shirts, sweatpants, pillows...

There's a little waistband on there, but you can't really see it because I was so careful matching up the stripes. Oh well.