icandy handmade

Big Island Board Shorts Review

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

I have a confession to make. Up until now, I have never sewn Aaron anything except (part of) his Halloween costume.
Bad bad mom.

When I saw this adorable pattern, the Big Island Board Shorts by Blank Slate Patterns, I instantly knew I had to make them.

Aaron already has 3 pairs of swim trunks that fit him fine, but can always use more casual play clothes. So I decided to make a comfy, more athletic-style version of these shorts. I used a really nice knit fabric I had in my stash. I know- knit isn't on the list of recommended fabrics, but it worked great. This particular knit is nice and thick, with a soft back, but I also cut one pair out of plain gray interlock from JoAnn. They are still in the works but looking great too.

For any of you who have active boys, this is a great way to get more mileage out of this pattern. You can make the swim version, and then also make the casual comfy version out of knit. I used regular bias tape as called for in the pattern.

As for the pattern, it was fabulous. It was so nice for a change to just print, tape, and follow directions. And that is just what I did. Melissa's directions are just perfect- clear and concise. The shorts came together so easily, that is, until my serger ran out of thread. Major detour. Ugh. Anyway, my allotted sewing time was taken up rethreading the thing, so I only have this one pair to show you! I am planning on finishing up the others tonight.

So as much fun as it was sewing for my boy, taking the pictures was a whole different story. He actually was sweaty by the time we came back inside. Sweaty. From a photo shoot where he was supposed to be posing for photos. These shots about sum up the experience.

P.S. To see an awesome swim version of the Big Island Board Shorts Pattern, check out this color-blocked version on Caila Made. So awesome.

Summer Essentials Kit

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Hello!

Last year we posted this as a guest post, but never had a chance to show it here.

Ucreate's Simple Fat Quarter Series

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 03:11:00 +0000

We are excited to be a part of a fabulous line-up of guest bloggers on Ucreate this month in their new summer series:

Here's a schedule of who to see and when...we're sure to deplete your fat quarter stash in a matter of weeks! I can't wait to see what all these seamstresses have up their sleeves!

{click here to check it out!}

6/17 - Jill @ Create.Craft.Love

6/18 - Liz & Elizabeth @ Simple Simon & Co

Christie @ Lemon Squeezy Home

6/19 - Nancy @ owen's olivia

Mandy @ Sugar Bee Crafts

6/20 - Delia @ Delia Creates

Kimbo @ A Girl and a Glue Gun

6/21 - Melissa @ Polka Dot Chair

Autie @ iCandy Handmade

6/22 - Kelly @ Sewing in No Man's Land

Megan @ Brassy Apple

6/24 - Amy @ Diary of a Quilter

Rachel @ Family Ever After

6/25 - Bev @ Flamingo Toes

Sarah @ Craft Snob

6/26 - Abby @ Sew Much Ado

Sachiko @ Tea Rose Home

6/27 - Amber @ Crazy Little Projects

Ashley @ Mommy by Day Crafter by Night

6/28 - Angelina @ JoJo and Eloise

Jessica @ Craftiness is not Optional

6/29 - Crystal @ A Pumpkin and a Princess

Jessica @ The Sewing Rabbit

(mini-tut) Chalkboard 'Days Until' Sign

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:42:00 +0000

With Summer just a mere 4 days away (the official first day of summer is June 21st, and it also happens to be my kids last day of school), we've been counting it down in style...

Perfect for a countdown to an upcoming birthday, anniversary, or an upcoming vacation.
This is such an easy project, I thought I'd just share the easy steps:

Cut Your board down to size:
-(I used a piece of scrap wood of my neighbors (isn't she nice!?!) It measured 9.25" x 0.75". I cut it to be 36 inches long.
Sand it down with super fine sandpaper.
(after you've sanded it, wipe it down with a damp paper towl or cloth to remove all the dust, and then allow to dry.
Give it a coat of Primer
(Spray Paint is best)
Spray Paint evenly with Chalkboard Spray Paint
(2 coats, just to make sure you have good even coverage)
Cut white vinyl using your Cricut
( I used my newest cartridge called Type Candy Font...oh my gosh, I love it)
Attach saw-tooth picture hangers on the back (I used 1 on either side to keep it from tipping while I'm erasing and re-writing)
Adhere your vinyl, and start counting down the days!

Best of Summer Series: Isabella Dress Review

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Happy Friday, everyone!

Today I am over at Caila Made for her

pattern review series with an oldie but goodie.

Go on over to Caila Made

and get some summer sewing inspiration!

Zippered Throw Pillows & Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 07:01:00 +0000

Since my move, I have had throw pillows on my to-do list. This recent trip to the L.A. Fabric district was the perfect time to buy some home-dec fabric.

I found this great Anna Maria Horner print at Michael Levine's Home Dec Fabric store, along with three other amazing geometric patterned fabrics that are on my sewing table right now. They are all available in their online store- lowpricefabrics.com

The Anna Maria Horner fabric (pictured) is great for decorating on a budget. It is a medium weight fabric- heavier than quilting cotton but not as thick as most home-dec fabrics. The price? Can't be beat for less than $6.00 a yard!

The pillows I made added just the right touch to my new formal living room that I have gradually been working on. It took a while to get everything together, but finally I am satisfied with the room.

The zippered throw pillows came together so quickly and easily, thanks to this fabulous tutorial by Prudent Baby.

Couldn't have finished them without my local JoAnn Fabric Store- ran over there yesterday to pick up the zippers. Can't really sew much without JoAnn. :)

Before I run off to finish the rest of those throw pillows- I want to leave you with the best giveaway ever:

One GRAND PRIZE winner!

Brother 1034D serger! (donated by GoToPatterns.com)

Four lucky winners will receive $150 in prizes!

$50 to GoToPatterns.com

$50 to LowPriceFabric.co m

$50 for a class at Craftsy.com

Contest Rules:
Giveaway open internationally to contestants 18 years or older. Contestants must enter their email address to be added to the LowPriceFabric.com and GoToPatterns.com email newsletters to win. All prizes are awarded in the form of gift certificates. Winners responsible for paying shipping. Gift certificate value of serger is $210. Contest open from June 11, 2013 through June 20, 2013 EST. Winners will be notified within 24 hours of winning. Winners have 48 hours to claim their reward. New winners will be chosen if prizes are unclaimed. Winners will be emailed their rewards within 7 days of claiming their prize. ONE ENTRY per person. This contest is being held on multiple blogs. Please enter only once. You will be counted only once.
Loading...

(iCandy and tutorial) Sand Dollar Specimen Art

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Aren't Sand dollars just magic?

They are so rare, at least around here, that when you find one, it's so exciting!

I've had a collection of sand dollars given to me by my MIL sitting in a box to make a specimen art for a long time.

All I needed was a cheap shadowbox to get started, and I finally found one this week at Goodwill. Woo hoo!

Such a fun easy project, you could do it with scallop shells, or whatever you find at the beach this summer!

Here's what I did!

Supplies:

-shadow box (got mine at Goodwill (8 x 10))

Burlap ( I only had a scrap left, and it's just fine!_

-Glue Gun

-Scissors

-Sand Dollars ( I used 12)

First, cut your burlap to be about the size of the back of your shadowbox frame. I just roughly cut my strip of burlap and laid it over the backing with a little bit of overlap.

Hot glue around the perimeter of the backing, and a few lines across the middle to keep it firmly attached to the backing (as you'll have some weight holding on to that burlap in a minute!)

Then, trim the burlap, just around the border of the frame backing.

Lay-out your sand dollars in the order that you want. I had no rhyme or reason to mine, I didn't care if they were all the same size, or if they were perfect or not: the imperfections make it look more real to me.

After they are arrranged how you want, just dollop some hot glue on the back and adhere them to the burlap one at a time.

Once the glue dries, stick the backing carefully back in your frame.

I have sort of a beachy-bathroom theme going, so I hung it just on the inside of the bathroom door...I think it's so fun!

I hope your shell collecting this summer will end up on display, too!

More Knit Skirts

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Before I can start making myself some fun things with my new fabric...I have to tackle my existing to-do list. These skirts were at the top, because they were all cut out and ready to go. And my daughter needs them, as most of her skirts are old and WAY too short.

Thanks, JCrew for inspiring me to make these. They are the perfect summer skirt- comfy and cute. And I probably could make around ten for the price of one of yours. :)

Actually four is enough. Now onto my next project...

One of these days I will make a dent in that new fabric.

Judge on Skirt Week

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Sun, 09 Jun 2013 16:30:00 +0000

Have you all checked out Skirt Week
on Crafterhours?

I am a judge this year! So fun.

I love this series- all about skirts.
Go see and support all of the entries!

Post Fabric Weekend/GNO Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:27:00 +0000

We always like to follow up our Girl's Night Out Events with a fabulous giveaway.

Its no fun just sharing a recap post, we like to share the goodies as well!

The fabulous Sponsors of the Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores Girl's Night Out Event have teamed up, and we are offering eleven incredible prizes for you to win.

-------------------------

2 Winners will receive (1) Dear Stella Designs Charm Packs of their entire Spring 2013 Fabric Collection.

-------------------------

1 Winner will receive (1) Bundle of Pellon Products - including: 1 pkg PellonÆ SF101 (15" x 2 yards), 1 pkg PellonÆ 906F Fusible Sheerweight (15" x 3 yards), 1 pkg PellonÆ 931TD Fusible Midweight (15" x 3 yards), 1 pkg PellonÆ 805R Wonder-UnderÆ (15" x 2 yards), 1 yard PellonÆ 420G Fashion Fuse Grey, 1 yard PellonÆ SK135 Sheer-Knitô, 1 yard PellonÆ XE-45 Xtreme ElasticÆ Fusible Stretch Interfacing.

-------------------------

1 Winner will receive (1) Phoomph for Fabric Stiff and (1) Suave, Fat Quarters of the new ìEclectic Elementsî fabric by Tim Holtz.

-------------------------

1 Winner will receive (1) Coats & Clark Dual Duty All Purpose XP Thread Assortment 50/pkg.

-------------------------

2 Winners will receive (1) McCalls Pattern Bundle, including 4 Sewing Patterns each.

-------------------------

2 Winners will receive (1) Box, filled with mystery 'Summer Fabric' courtesy of Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores.

-------------------------

2 Winners will receive (1) Girl's Night Out Gift Bag. Gift Bag includes: Fabric from Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores, 3 spools of thread from Coats & Clark, Phoomph Product from Coats and Clark, Pellon Interfacing, Dear Stella Designs Charm Pack, Michael Miller Fabric from the new Violet Craft line, 4 Pattern bundle pack from McCalls, Notebook, and Burlap and Chalkboard Gift Bag from the Sewing Rabbit.

-------------------------

So much fun - right?

[iframe][/iframe] No purchase necessary. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Google Docs. We hereby release Google Docs of any liability. No purchase necessary. For alternate entry, e-mail jgerblick(at)hotmail(dot)com with your full name and the subject line ìGNO Los Angeles Giveaway.î All prizes will ship within 7 days of the end of the giveaway. Giveaway starts Thursday, June 6, 2013 at 6:00 am EST and ends Thursday, June 13, 2013 at 6:00 am EST. Once the giveaway ends, winners will be chosen using Random.org and contacted within 24 hours by e-mail. A post announcing the winners will go live at https://www.facebook.com/MeSewCrazy with winnersí names on Thursday, June 13th. Winners will need to respond within 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to US contestants only.

Fabric Weekend Recap

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:30:00 +0000

I am sure many of you have seen so many photos of this amazing event all over the place - instagram, facebook, twitter, blogs - but I wanted to give you my take on this amazing weekend. Warning- it is a bit long, so hopefully you can make it through the whole thing!

I drove into LA on thursday night - a two hour drive from my new place. We stayed at the Omni Hotel, which was a perfect location in the heart of downtown. Besides the horrific Valet charges, it was great. :) Once I got there, I texted Jessica, my roommate and found out that the rest of the girls who had arrived earlier that evening were all at a restaurant a short walk away. I headed over and met up with 8 women who I knew virtually, but had yet to meet in person. It was a bit surreal. They were just finishing up their meal, and we walked back to the hotel together. Then we all piled into Bev's big SUV (yes all 9 of us!) and drove to a well known ice cream place called MILK. We ate ice cream and chatted the entire time. Everyone was just as awesome as I imagined they would be.

The next morning, we headed over to FIDM and had a tour of the campus. It was so interesting! I loved every minute of it. We saw several exhibits, including a barbie exhibit

and a Toms exhibit,

all designed by the FIDM students. We even got to see sweater knit being created by machine- all in about 5 minutes.

Left- Caila from Caila Made

The tour ended in their library, and we browsed through books showing us the up and coming trends. Think peach, boxy silhouettes and grunge... hmmm.

We then made a stop at the FIDM Scholarship store which has a small section of $1/yd fabric. This place is definitely hit or miss- sometimes you find some great stuff, other times not so much. I found a few knits I liked.

Then we headed over to Michael Levine.

Oh my goodness. We walked in, and went into their back offices, where we were treated with gift bags and lunch.

Then they gave us a tour of their amazing warehouse. Think FABRIC HEAVEN.

If only we could have that next door to us! The owner, Larry gave the tour himself.

They were such gracious hosts!

Then we shopped our little hearts out at the Michael Levine stores. They have their main store, their discount store- The Loft- where you can buy fabric by the pound!, and their home-dec store. I bought at all three... Not to mention they have an amazing online store too- lowpricefabric.com

We had a little bit of time left after that to start exploring downtown and then we headed back to the hotel with sore feet and happy smiles.

Oh- And bags of fabric.

That night, we headed to Olvera Street and had yummy authentic Mexican food for dinner, and we tried to grab a churro at Mr. Churro but they were closed!

We then headed back to the hotel and hung out till midnight chatting, having dessert and drinks.

The next morning, we went to MOOD!

Left- Stef from Girl Inspired, Me, Right- Cherie from You & Mie

Oh my goodness, I don't even know where to start. They had leather in every color, and I bought some gorgeous blue - going to try to make my first leather handbag! Then we were given a tour and the shopping began. I was really lucky, because my husband had given me a gift certificate there for Christmas, and I hadn't used it yet. So I felt much less guilty as I found gorgeous fabric after gorgeous fabric.

After that, the group split up and headed out shopping again. I went to another favorite of mine, Angel Fabrics, and we hit a few more shops.

Finally, the night ended with the Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores Girl’s Night Out, hosted by Jessica (My roomie!) of Me Sew Crazy and SewSet. It was AMAZING. The venue, the food,

the company - it was the perfect way to end a perfect weekend.

From Left- Me, Sabra from Sew A Straight Line, Miriam from Mad Mim, Abby from Sew Much Ado

Sponsored by Jo-Ann, Pellon, Michael Miller, Coats and Clark, Dear Stella Design, and McCalls Patterns, we were given amazing gift bags full of goodies.

***

I was so sad for the weekend to end. Even though I just met most of them, I feel like I just spent an amazing girls weekend with great friends!

Thanks, Jessica for this photo. :)

As for my loot (which I tried unsuccessfully to hide from my husband) - here it is on my floor. Still in bags. It's been a crazy week! I will show you what I bought soon...

(Review) Perfect Pop App from Pop Secret

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 20:58:00 +0000

In our family, Saturday night is usually deemed Movie Night. Most of the time, we enjoy movie night together as a fam, but sometimes we invite friends over and make it more of a big deal.

The last time we invited friends over, I was a walking, microwaveable popcorn disaster.

I attempted to make microwave popcorn for all the kids - there were 13 of them.

After 2 of my own bags burned and reeked up the house, I had to borrow a couple of my neighbor's bags as a last resort, and I sort of got it right.

But burnt popcorn smell lingered through the night and into the next day. Sick!

The kids couldn't have cared less, but seriously, what's wrong with me?! I almost resorted to making it the good, old-fashioned way on the stove!

BUT, my luck's changed.

This week, I was informed of a brand new app: Perfect Pop!

I thought I'd give the microwaveable bags one last-ditch effort before I gave up trying entirely!

(Am I a total freak of nature!?)

So, I invited a couple of friends over (not nearly as many as before!)

I bought a couple of boxes of Pop Secret Popcorn

and I downloaded the app on the App Store*...(Perfect Pop)

The verdict: it's magical.

perfectly popped bag of popcorn!

So, here's the deal: you load your microwave with a bag of popcorn and set it to the time described on the bag. Start your microwave, and then immediately start your app (it's ridiculously easy to figure out)

You set your phone next to your microwave (but not on or in) and a cute little kernel guy pops up and listens to your pops, waiting for the precise moment to let you know when your popcorn is perfect.

When it's time, it tells you to stop the microwave...and really, I cooked 3 bags tonight, the 3 cooking times varied by 15 seconds, and each bag came out perfecto!

the crowd-test-tasters approved

(Ignore the kid-proofed couch picture, please...I'm a little OCD)

Have you ever burned a bag of popcorn?

(Of course, you have...I know I'm not the only one!)

If you have, leave me a comment with your horror story...or just a note to help me feel better about myself! When you do, you'll be entered for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card, compliments of Pop Secret!

For official sweepstakes rules, click {here}

And the next time you throw yourselves a little mini-movie-night, try out the Perfect Pop app!

I'm converted!

Here are some more 'popcorn-themed' ideas to get excited about:

Popcorn Cupcakes {source}

Fringed Popcorn Bags {source}

"pop"corn printables for Father's Day {source}

Movie Night Spread {source}

Rules:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
b) Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the
following unique term in your tweet message: ""#SweepstakesEntry""; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post"
c) Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 6/3 - 6/30.
Be sure to visit the Pop Secret brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!

*Apple, the Apple logo, and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Apple is not affiliated and does not endorse, sponsor or support this third party app and sweepstakes.

(guest blogging):Lil Luna

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Sun, 02 Jun 2013 14:09:00 +0000

I have a fun paper craft tutorial over at Lil Luna for you today!

Back when my baby Scarlet was in the hospital, I was so grateful that I had taken notes down on this mini legal pad...Since then, it's been a great tool to have. I made one for each of my kids and I love them!

{click here}

to check it out!

(tutorial) J Crew Knock-off: Girls Knit Skirt

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Thu, 30 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

This past weekend, we were out shopping for some dress pants and shirts for my little guy.

Emily was begging for a new skirt.

So as a compromise, I told her I would make her some (well, one got done) this week.

I got online to see what kinds of skirts they have at J Crew right now.

I found this one:

and it looked easy enough to knock off.

Emily really liked it too.

So I pulled out some fabrics and got started.

I only got this one done, but have 3 more cut out and ready to sew. They don't require very much material and stitch up pretty quickly.

With summer here (pretty much)

these will be the perfect addition to any little girl's wardrobe.

Materials:

about 1/2 to 3/4 yard of 60" wide knit fabric

3/8" wide ribbon or cord

1" thick elastic

I used a new method for doing the elastic waistband. It turned out so much better than doing a casing, in my opinion. Get the tutorial here. If you don't have a serger, you could zigzag the edges together instead. Also, instead of using a double needle, I used my lightning bolt stretch stitch. Just be sure to pull the fabric taut as you do that part.

Also, instead of doing eyelets and a drawstring, I faked it. I still love the way it turned out:

Done!

(iCandy) Little Red's Quilt

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Tue, 28 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Before Scarlet was born, we started calling her little red...

and I've loved all the Lilttle Red Riding hood fabrics and bedrooms that I've seen out recently. So, I had a fun idea for a personalized quilt for my very own Little Red.

I started out with 2 charm packs.

I play a fun game with myself when I make charm quilts:

I stick all of the squares in a paper bag and shake them up, and lay them out one at a time as I pull them out. After they're all laid out, I get 3 trades (just in case there are two of the same fabric squares next to each other)

Then I put a simple red border around the charm squares followed by a 2 inch border of plain white cotton, and here's where the fun started. I wrote a little story about my Scarlet that I embroidered all the way around the quilt: (embroidery 101 here)

Once upon a time, there lived a pretty little girl named Scarlet.

She had long dark eyelashes,

curly brown hair and the most darling smile in all the land.

She was a good girl who always cared for others.

She loved to wear red,

make new friends

and have picnics in the woods.

Her brother and sister loved her so,

and her family endearingly called her Little Red...

I finished it off with a bigger boarder of some yardage from the same Moda line that I used (A Walk in the Woods), and then bound it (find out how I bind my quilts here)

I love this quilt for Scarlet! The embroidery part took longer than I expected...I wrote a lot of words, but I've been wanting to do this for her so bad, it was easy to push through. I hope she has fun with it as she grows up!

(and now you know why I really wanted her to have a little red riding hood!)

I think you could do this with any princess fabric for your little girls, or even a personalized super hero story for your little guys...make a cute little quilt to match their room, and then embroider a story about them around the perimeter...

I hope this gives you some inspiration to make one, too!

Fabric Weekend 2013

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Mon, 27 May 2013 15:45:00 +0000

I am so excited.

I am attending my first-ever blogger event this coming weekend!

Some amazing blogger friends and I are all getting together to go fabric shopping in the LA fabric district this weekend! As I have talked about before in this LA Fabric District Guide post, most of my fabric is bought there, since I live in Southern California. You can't beat the selection and prices of fabric downtown. If you live anywhere close or come to visit SoCal, you NEED to plan a day shopping there. That is, unless, you have no interest in Fabric Heaven. :)

A HUGE thank you to
Andrea from The Train To Crazy & Go To Patterns
with the help of
Justine from Sew Country Chick &
Bev from Flamingo Toes
for putting this amazing event together!

*****

One place I ALWAYS stop at, is Michael Levine.

Michael Levine is a staple in the Los Angeles Fabric District. Their main store HUGE and carries everything from designer quilting cottons (so many gorgeous ones!), Liberty of London, as well as amazing apparel fabric. They also have an upholstery fabric store which has such a beautiful selection of home decor fabric as well. And... the Loft. This is such a fun place to shop. You dig through monstrous bins full of fabric and - you pay by the pound. I have gotten huge bags of fabric for like $30.

For those of you who can't make it to their stores in LA, thankfully they have a great online store as well. Their online brand is lowpricefabric.com and you'll love it.

Along with Michael Levine, we want to extend a special thank you to Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores for sponsoring Fabric Weekend 2013. Even in a fabric heaven like Los Angeles you still know you can find exactly what you need at Jo-Anns. What would we do without Jo-Ann!

*****

Not only do I get to spend a weekend in Fabric Heaven fabric shopping with so many like-minded friends, but we get to attend a special Girl's Night Out dinner/blogger get together Saturday night! This amazing event is also sponsored by Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. I can't wait to talk sewing and eat yummy food. A special thank you to Jessica of Me Sew Crazy for putting this together!

If you want to follow along... I will be posting FaceBook updates

throughout the weekend! I can't wait!

P.S. I have a gift certificate to Mood Fabric that I got for Christmas... can't wait to use it!

(iCandy) Little Red's Riding Hood

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Thu, 23 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Well, I've been working on a little project for my teeny one-year old...(I can't believe it's been a year!) I'm planning on showing it to you next week: I'm really excited about it! But sort of in conjunction with this secret project that may or may not have anything to do with a certain classic fairy tale, I felt like my little Scarlet (whom we call Little Red around these parts) needed to have a red riding hood.

I tried to just find someone that I knew that had one I could borrow, but to no avail: so, when all else fails, make your own, right? I had this {vintage} pattern that I got from a garage sale) sitting around waiting for me to try it. I didn't even know if all the pieces were in there.

{And, I might remind you that I can count on one hand the number of times I've used a real "pattern' with brown tissue paper and everything. they scare me a little. }

I also had the red fabric, the yardage of the turquoise to go inside and the trim...even though I really didn't want to attempt this scary pattern, fate was in my favor. (free, hello?)

Isn't this such a fun pattern?!? I kinda want to try the romper, too!

The original pocket was different, but I wanted a lined pocket...so I made that part up.

I love that her little friend 'Wolfie', that she likes to chew on, fits snuggly in her side pocket.

I can't wait to show you the reason I made her this little scarlet riding hood...get excited for next week!

Any guesses on what the secret project might be?

(tutorial) Vintage May: Mod About You

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Tue, 21 May 2013 07:01:00 +0000

This post is part of the Vintage May series hosted by

Craftiness is not Optional and Skirt as Top.

Have you been following along with Vintage May at Craftiness is Not Optional and

Skirt as Top? I had so much fun creating this vintage inspired look for their fun series.

I thought it would be fun to create a little shift dress inspired by the

Mod Dresses

from the late 60's/early 70's.

I found this fun orange and pink print that reminded me of the era too.

Just a bit of trim on the neckline and pockets adds a fun detail to the dress.

By some miracle my picky little daugher loved the dress!

That is always a sweet feeling. :)

If you are wondering who the little guy in the background of some of these photos is...

He was enjoying the photo shoot and posing for the camera.

A cute little V in the back, just a bit of trim, and a cute bow add a little

interest to the simple shift dress.

Want to make one?

Materials:

1 Yard of Fabric (Up to a size 6- it was a bit tight)

1 yard trim

zipper

Done!

Everyday Skirt Featured!

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Mon, 20 May 2013 22:58:00 +0000

Super excited to have my Everyday Skirt be featured in

DIY Lifestyle Magazine!

(An e-magazine for the iPad)

Have an iPad and looking for some DIY inspiration? Check out the May issue of the "DIY Lifestyle" Magazine, for free! Each issue contains many DIY projects contributed by talented bloggers. For your free trial download the magazine here! Click on subscribe and then current subscribers, enter in “mayfreeb1” to get the current issue for free; and do it soon because the coupon is only valid until June 1st. Enjoy!

(Guest Blogging) Craft Stew

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Mon, 20 May 2013 03:34:00 +0000

The girls behind iCandy were asked to participate in an online interview this week over at Craft Stew.

If you want to head over there and learn a little more about us, {click here} and {here}!

(tutorial) Shoreline Dress Ombre Bodice

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Thu, 16 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Well- I finally put together a tutorial for this ombre technique with tulle for the

Shoreline Dress.

Autie is the brilliant one behind it. I remember her explaining it to me on the phone and it was a serious lightbulb moment. Genius, I tell you!

For the tutorial I only showed one back bodice piece.

You will want to follow these instructions for a front bodice pattern piece and both back pieces.

I used an ivory matte satin for my main fabric, and a Williamsburg Blue tulle.

Decide roughly where you want your ombre to start.

(How far down your bodice) Use your pattern piece as a

guide before moving on to the next step.

Start your markings where you want the ombre to start.

For your first piece

of tulle, measure from the bottom of the

fabric up to the top crease. Double this

measurement. For your second piece of tulle,

measure from the bottom of the fabric to the

second crease and double that. And so on.

Your last piece of tulle will be pretty small.

(mini-tut) Perler Bracelet

noreply@blogger.com ({autie}) — Tue, 14 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Did you know that Jo-Ann's has a Spring/Summer craft catalog chock full of mini-craft projects to do with your kids? Whether you have to stay inside because it's raining, want a project outside when it's sunny, or want a fun project to have on hand when you're on vacation, this catalog has something that your kids will love!

I had no idea!

I flipped through their Spring catalog {found here} and thought I'd try my hand at one of them! (There are lots!)

Here's what I chose:

The Perler Blue Bracelet

I know my daughter would love getting a new piece of jewelry (what girl doesn't?) and I thought that this might be a fun project that I could do with my 6-year-old (of course making it a little more manly) or to teach some of the older neighbor girls.

I will admit, that when it came time to actually trying this project, I didn't know if I was smart enough to do it! (The zig-zag pattern in the photo looked a little beyond my brain power these days!)

BUT

I decided that it being my first crack at it, I'd make it easy on myself, and forego the zig-zag, and instead I tried for just a 2-colored, striped bracelet.

Turns out, I'm smart enough for this project!

...and I'm super excited to both teach the neighborhood tween-agers how to do this...and share this fun little project with you.

So, the main reason I chose this project because I loved the fact that it was constructed with very few 'ingredients.'

Supplies:

-2 different colors of Perler beads

-1 spool of elastic thread ( I used white, thin beading elastic found by the thimbles, etc)

-1 larger bead ( I used a random pony bead I had, it's just to act as a stopper on one end)

-1 large needle...they say it's optional, but it's required if you ask me!

For the Joann's directions on how to make this bracelet, {click here}

Here's my two cents added to their directions!

{repin my pin (here) to help me win $100 to Joanns}

-Cut 2 yards of your elastic thread. (2 yards was EXACTLY the right length for my 4-year old's wrist...I can fit it on my wrist, but I would definitely cut 3 yards, and then trim the excess when it gets to the size you want!
-Tie a large bead to use as a stopper at one end of the elastic. (leave some tail!)
-Add 6 beads to the string. (I used 2 turquoise, 2 white, 2 turquoise)
-Next, add a 7th bead (turquoise), and thread your needle back up through bead #5
-Add an 8th bead (white) and thread your needle back up through bead #3
-Add a 9th bead (turquoise) and thread your needle back up through bead #1.
-Pull elastic tight.
-Start the weave again in the next row, by adding another bead, and threading your needle back through the previous beads, one at a time. Basically, for each new row, you just add 3 more beads.
-Continue on until your bracelet is the desired length.
To finish:
Untie your pony bead and tie your two ends in a square not. For added security, I added a dab of nail polish and allowed to dry. ta-daa. It's totally easier than it looks...and really, I'd wear it!

This project took me about an hour from start to finish, and I totally did it while watching a show. This would be a great activity for kids, and I'm anxious to see how my kids do at it...They're a hair on the young age at 4 and 6. (I'll let you know!)

Did you guys know about this catalog? Let me know if you try this project, or any others from the catalog out!

(Sponsor Spotlight) Violette Field Threads

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Mon, 13 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

I am DYING right now.

(My daughter calls me Drama Mama...ha ha)

Violette Field Threads has done it again.

Have you seen this adorable pattern? It is the Madelyn Shirt.

The perfect little summer top that would go with everything!

I need to make some of these. They are just perfect.

Here is the back:

And here it is with a patterned collar:

Go take a look for yourself. And check out the other new releases here. You won't be disappointed.

Fabric Match Up Giveaway Winner!

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Mon, 13 May 2013 02:48:00 +0000

And the winner is....

Tegan Nilles!

Great Job!

For those who are interested, here is the answer key!

(tutorial & pattern) My Favorite Tee Dress - Revisited

noreply@blogger.com ({jen} iCandyhandmade) — Thu, 09 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Remember this dress?

I have been meaning to make a few more of them- but haven't gotten around to it till now.

I had this cute purplish fabric in my stash and thought I would try again, but add a couple of twists.

The one thing about the first version I wanted to change was the neckline- it doesn't lay totally flat all the time. I thought a neck band would work better. With one tiny seam I made it a V-neck... but it could go either way. I also banded the sleeves this time around.

I like the high-low look so I thought it would be a fun twist. I basically did a straight front hemline and just curved the back. I really like how it turned out.

Here is the original tutorial if you want to make one.

Once you have your pattern made (using that tutorial) you can create the neckband. My general rule of thumb is to measure around your neckline (minus seam allowance) using a measuring tape. Take that measurement and multiply it by 80%. That will be the length of your neckband. For the width, take how wide you want it, double that and add a seam allowance times 2. So for example, I wanted my band to be 1/2" wide. With a 1/4" seam allowance, my neckband was

1 1/2" wide.

For the sleeve bands, I measured around the arm hole, (minus the seam allowance) and cut the band the same length.

Once you have your pattern pieces and bands, you can follow this tutorial to sew the dress. Same as sewing a tee- just longer! FYI- I now divide the band into quarters, and the neckline as well, then pin at the marks. Then stretch the band to match up with the pins.

Or, here is my pattern if you want to make a size M.

Arm bands: 14" long by 1.5" wide

Neck band: 24" long by 1.5" wide

Here is what your pattern will look like put together:

My dress is patterned off of an Old Navy tee that is a size medium. If you don't want the high-low, just cut the dress at your desired length.

Feel free to adjust the neckline and sleeve length too- there are so many options!

icandy handmade

Big Island Board Shorts Review

Summer Essentials Kit

Ucreate's Simple Fat Quarter Series

6/17 - Jill @ Create.Craft.Love

6/18 - Liz & Elizabeth @ Simple Simon & Co

Christie @ Lemon Squeezy Home

6/19 - Nancy @ owen's olivia

Mandy @ Sugar Bee Crafts

6/20 - Delia @ Delia Creates

Kimbo @ A Girl and a Glue Gun

6/21 - Melissa @ Polka Dot Chair

Autie @ iCandy Handmade

6/22 - Kelly @ Sewing in No Man's Land

Megan @ Brassy Apple

6/24 - Amy @ Diary of a Quilter

Rachel @ Family Ever After

6/25 - Bev @ Flamingo Toes

Sarah @ Craft Snob

6/26 - Abby @ Sew Much Ado

Sachiko @ Tea Rose Home

6/27 - Amber @ Crazy Little Projects

Ashley @ Mommy by Day Crafter by Night

6/28 - Angelina @ JoJo and Eloise

Jessica @ Craftiness is not Optional

6/29 - Crystal @ A Pumpkin and a Princess

Jessica @ The Sewing Rabbit

(mini-tut) Chalkboard 'Days Until' Sign

Best of Summer Series: Isabella Dress Review

Zippered Throw Pillows & Giveaway!

One GRAND PRIZE winner!

Brother 1034D serger! (donated by GoToPatterns.com)

Four lucky winners will receive $150 in prizes!

$50 to GoToPatterns.com

$50 to LowPriceFabric.com

$50 for a class at Craftsy.com

(iCandy and tutorial) Sand Dollar Specimen Art

More Knit Skirts

Judge on Skirt Week

Post Fabric Weekend/GNO Giveaway

Its no fun just sharing a recap post, we like to share the goodies as well!

So much fun - right?

Fabric Weekend Recap

(Review) Perfect Pop App from Pop Secret

(guest blogging):Lil Luna

(tutorial) J Crew Knock-off: Girls Knit Skirt

(iCandy) Little Red's Quilt

Fabric Weekend 2013

(iCandy) Little Red's Riding Hood

(tutorial) Vintage May: Mod About You

Everyday Skirt Featured!

(Guest Blogging) Craft Stew

(tutorial) Shoreline Dress Ombre Bodice

(mini-tut) Perler Bracelet

(Sponsor Spotlight) Violette Field Threads

Fabric Match Up Giveaway Winner!

(tutorial & pattern) My Favorite Tee Dress - Revisited

$50 to LowPriceFabric.co m