My Little French Sewing Room

Ssshh... it's a gift!

2012-02-10T11:15:00.000-08:00

With a few decorating magazines tucked into the back pocket, along with a Tim Horton's gift card, I'm hoping this gift will be a lovely surprise for a certain special birthday girl!

Everything Old... Is New Again!

2012-01-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

I love to be inspired...

And this week I was inspired by my friend Linda's daughter Gina.

You can check out her blog here to see what I mean!

I had an old sweater that I had in a bag
ready to send to The Salvation Army,

I thought that it would be a good item to try my hand at
making into something new.

I started by cutting it in half.

I rearranged the buttons and then cut off the excess,

with the idea in mind of making a skirt for Makenna.
I sewed up the front, added an elasticized waist band and turned up the hem.

I rearranged the top portion as well and then cut off and reworked the sleeves.

And here is the end result.

I had a little left over and so made her some ankle warmer leggings to match.

It was so much fun and only took an hour.

I'm definitely going to be doing this again soon!

Thanks Gina!

Love This Hat!

2011-11-22T16:18:00.001-08:00

I love this saucy little hat!

This one is not embellished yet,

but it will be when complimentary buttons

are attached to the ends of the band on the front.

It took me a few tries,
to get the shape of brim
that I had drawn out in the initial design,

and then to figure out how to have the brim keep its shape,
and hold firm,

but it finally all came together,
and soon there will be others on the shelves of The Boutique...

just in time for Christmas!

In the meantime,
this first little hat has already found a new home...

hope you enjoy Tonya!

love,

The Most Curious Thing...

2011-11-02T16:20:00.000-07:00

These Mini-Pocket Pillows sure are popular!

I'm currently in the process of making more for The Boutique in preparation for Christmas, along with a good selection of other items as well!

It's the most curious thing... I really love everything that I make (or I honestly wouldn't be making it!)... and it gives me so much pleasure to know that they will soon be blessing others. I'm quite surprised at how intimate each item I make has become to me... like I said... it's the most curious thing!

Mini Pocket Pillows

2011-10-05T12:24:00.001-07:00

I'm just putting together a collection of items for the Touches of Home section of The Boutique.

Part of the fun is creating these delightful little Mini-Pocket Pillows that only measure 6" x 5".

I'll be using them this year to give away with perhaps a gift card tucked into the pocket or an item of jewelry.

A little dab of Lavender Oil and a few tissues tucked into the back pocket also makes it a lovely addition to any bedside or dressing table.

Roll-Ups!

2011-09-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

It's always fun making things for children,

especially when it enables me to be creative and enjoy the thought that little hands will soon be using what I've made.

I'm presently making Crayon Roll-Ups for the Just for Kids section of The Boutique.

Some for the boys...

...and some for the girls!

Crayon Roll-ups.

Such a little thing,

but in a child's hands it can open up a whole world of creativity!

2011-09-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

I'm really enjoying the creativity that goes into stocking the shelves of The Boutique!

I also get such delight when incorporating vintage pieces into whatever I am making, and many of the items in The Boutique will reflect this. The rule is... nothing goes on the shelves that I wouldn't love receiving myself!

This vintage 1930's button will soon be adorning one of the hat's in the Fall/Winter Cream in my Coffee Collection. I happen to think that its beauty lies not only in what we can see, but also what is hidden as well. You just don't find buttons like this very frequently anymore.

As my heart was contemplating this, a verse came to mind...

And let not your adornment be merely external...

but let it be the hidden person of the heart,

with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit,

which is precious in the sight of God.

1 Peter 3:3-4

As I wear my own particular hats that I have made for this Fall and Winter season,

this gentle reminder will bless me each and every time.

with love,

Finding New Attachments

2011-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

I don't attach myself to things very easily,

but when I saw this little box during a time of vintage shopping,

I just had to stop for a moment and take a look.

What a surprise I had when I opened it up and found modern

sewing machine attachments inside!
This entire collection,
including the cheery little 1950's style box,
set me back a whopping $1...

I'd like to think that whoever this once belonged to,
would get great pleasure from knowing
that these little attachments will soon be
humming along and making items
for the sole intent of blessing others.

Ruffled Pocket Pillow

2011-08-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Among the various items I've been creating lately are these gorgeous and substantial Ruffled Pocket Pillows. All I can tell you is that I absolutely love them myself and so I'm hoping that you will too! I'm presently putting together a collection that will be available for purchase in The Boutique by the end of September.

What a wonderful gift to receive by itself or with a special book or favourite magazine tucked into the back pocket, perhaps along with a few tissues and reading glasses.

These soft, drop cloth Ruffled Pocket Pillows add such a lovely, elegant and inviting touch to any corner of a home, whether it's the bed or even tucked into a leather club chair.

Hope you like them!

First Quilt

2011-07-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time coming... but I have finally completed my very First Quilt!

I was convinced that I would never make another after this,

but I am already planning the next one!

Honestly, it was the top stitching, that was scaring me half to death.

One day, in sheer frustration, I laid the quilt down on the floor and took a good long look at it.

I walked around it a couple of times, looking at it from every angle,

then I prayed, quickly gathered it up in my arms and headed for the Sewing Room.

And then I 'Looped de Looped' that thing until I was bug-eyed -

and although perfection will not be found within it's folds and stitches...

I couldn't be more pleased with the results!

The only thing I had to do after that was hand sew on the binding and I wanted to save that for when I was up at the lake. I spent many pleasurable moments quietly hand stitching the binding on, and by the time that my granddaughter arrived it was completed.

We snuggled under its folds and told stories, my young nieces and nephew laid it out on the floor and played dominoes on its twelve block pattern, and I finished my novel about "The Union Quilters" under its warmth.

The memories have already begun...

love,

Pocket Pillows

2011-06-11T15:46:00.000-07:00

I thought that you might like to take a peek at one of the Pocket Pillows that I've recently made.

The idea actually originated with my granddaughter who had been looking through some photograph albums and wanted to take the pictures out in order to hold them.

I think it's lovely to have a soft pillow nestled on your lap holding precious photographs that can easily be held, shared and enjoyed... and if there ever is a concern of the originals being handled, it is so easy to have copies made.

Each Pocket Pillow that I've made reflects the theme or memory that's behind it. This particular one is for the women that have come before me, a home to the recently acquired photographs that I have of my Grandmother and her sisters, my Great-Aunts on my father's side.

It was so enjoyable to look through and see their lives reflected back to me, from young womanhood, through middle-age and then into their latter years. In this photograph Great-Aunt Janet is standing at the back, my grandmother Jeanne is to the left, Liz is to the right, and my Aunt Meg (whom my bike is named after!) is to the front.

Pocket Pillows aren't only for pictures... they can also hold the book that you are currently reading along with your eyeglasses. I always like to have a pillow on my lap to prop underneath my book whenever I lay or sit down to read, so this is perfect! They can hold special letters, Kleenex.... whatever you choose to use them for... Pocket Pillows are definitely lovely to look at and practical too!

Shabby Roses

2011-06-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

I've been having fun using leftover materials to make Shabby Roses!

My plan is to make as many as possible,

and then begin using them to embellish the Pocket Pillows that I'm presently designing.

I just couldn't resist sneaking one away from the others,

and attaching it to my shirt jacket this morning.

What a simple thing to brighten a girl's day!

Hooked!

2011-04-19T13:16:00.001-07:00

Some days this Little Miss can be hard to catch!

But when it comes to domestic pleasures like

baking, gardening, home keeping and creative endeavours...

she seems to be in her element!

It tickles me no end to hear her say,

"Gramma... can I cwo-shay?"

Looks like we two girls are... hooked!

Grey Day Inspired Shawl

2011-04-10T18:24:00.000-07:00

I apologize for this post...

not one whit of thought has gone into it,

and the picture of me is just random,

must be the Advil.

Anyhoo,

I somehow recently acquired a seized up muscle in my upper back,

I was told not to do anything today...

how does a person actually do... nothing?

I managed to complete the student portion of my Bible Study,

puddled around in the kitchen for a few moments,

looked outside at the grey, wet and cold gloom,

then decided to get some left over yarn and cozy up my back by making myself a new shawl!

I like it!

My back feels so much better...

this doing nothing really works!

Four Sheets to the Wind!

2011-03-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well, this was certainly a fun little project - it's amazing what you can make with a bed sheet! I borrowed the pattern from my friend Linda and traced it onto wax paper before cutting it out. My granddaughter has a little pair of matching capri's coming soon that will go nicely with her new summer top - which can also be worn by itself as a dress.

Cotton always feels so cool and refreshingly comfortable when the weather turns warm and I am so convinced of using bed sheets that I've stocked up and am starting to put together a few patterns for myself in the way of casual summer wear.

I made my first ever 'Yo Yo' on this project. They seem to be all over everything in the stores this season... instead of paying store prices for the embellishment's, I'm thinking of turning plain T-shirts into more updated versions by adding a few Yo Yo's cut out of small fabric pieces already available in my fabric bin.

A Soft Place to Land...

2011-02-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

My Little French Sewing Room has a new addition, a lovely, soft, comfortable easy chair where I can sit and do needle work and enjoy the sun as it streams through the window.

I've always wanted a comfortable chair in this little room, and when blessed with a monetary birthday gift this year from my extended family it was a very appreciated birthday wish come true. I had an old wooden stool that I had picked up at the Thrift Store ages ago, just dabbed a little Sharpie Black Felt Pen on the nicks and...voila! A practical and convenient table for my tea and thimble.

I don't do a lot of sitting down these days it seems, but when I do, this lovely little easy chair is a simple comfort indeed!

Hmmm... now where is that Thrift Store foot stool that I was going to recover ... it would be a perfect height for this chair...

Crayon Roll Up

2011-01-29T17:04:00.000-08:00

It's my granddaughter's birthday! I've been wanting to make her a Crayon Roll-Up for ages now and so I thought that this would the perfect time.

This Peachy Pink colour seems to be really in this Spring and a few of the clothing gift items that she will be given has this colour running through them, as well as the five petal flowers that her gramma has been drawing since she was a little girl.

I went Vintage Shopping the other day and found some lovely material that matched her outfits to perfection! The outer material is so soft and has a lighter pink, five petal flower running through it.

When folded out, the striped cotton material enhances the straight lines of the crayons and the little flower pockets soften the look. In between each crayon space, I placed the tiniest little five, petal flower bead, making the stitching look like long flower stems.

I'm really delighted with how it turned out. If I had a little more time, I would also make a carry bag to place the Crayon Roll-Up in, along with her colouring books... sigh... that will have to be another project, for another day!

Drawstring Bags

2011-01-27T16:48:00.000-08:00

I think that my foray into hat making is over for a while - I now seem to be drawn to draw string bags! I made this little one for myself and gifted one just like it to my friend Linda. They are easy to make and are perfect for holding all manner of wonderful things!

I'm going to make as many as I can this year and have them on hand instead of paper gift bags. That way, the gift recipient not only gets the gift tucked inside... but also the bag itself becomes a nice little additional gift!

Hats for Gracie and Ellie

2011-01-12T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well, it looks like Makenna's hat was a hit!

So a new little hat was ordered for her best friend Gracie, and as a little treat I also made one for Gracie's little sister, Ellie.

Hope you like your hats girls!

'Twas The Night Before Christmas...

2010-12-30T15:50:00.000-08:00

I was a busy girl right before Christmas... lots of hats and things to crochet! Even on Christmas Eve, the last hat was being quickly crocheted together!

This one is for Anne...

This one for Nina...

This one for Jude...

This one for Emma.

And it wasn't just for the girl's either -

here is a lovely Bamboo Yarn toque that I made for little Ryan!

Each one of the little girls -

Isabel,

Olivia,

Malea,

Makenna,

all received little hat's as well -

here they are all ready to be assembled in the production line!

I forgot to take pictures of them all completed,

but here is the first one as an example of them all -

they sure did look cute all lined up and ready to be wrapped!

Makenna received a poncho and matching hat.

The beads are ones that she enjoys playing with in my bead box -

and the colour of the yarn reminds me of Christmas Candy!

If Makenna was to receive a poncho and hat,

then her mama was to have one too!

Here she is on Christmas morning...

There were a few other gifts I made, that found themselves all brightly packaged away in Christmas paper before I got a chance to take pictures of them. I just hope that they will bless those that receive as much as they did me in the making of them!

Nano, Nano

2010-12-29T15:18:00.000-08:00

Good things come in small packages!

I received an iPod Nano for Christmas!

It measures only 1 1/2 inches square and can house over 4,000 songs... amazing!

I've made it a little quilted case, so that when I carry it in my pocket it won't get scratched...

And placed a button hole on the bottom so that my earbuds can easily be connected.

And everything fits very nicely into my little drawstring bag!

And she shall have music - wherever she goes!

Leg Warmers!

2010-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

It's a very snowy day today!

And although I seem to have a little assembly line of hats to complete for Christmas gifts...

it just seemed right to begin a little pair of leg warmers for Makenna.

I think they will look cute when they are done!

I'm also thinking that a pair of Big Girl leg warmers would be a excellent idea too!

Lemon Drops and Hats to Match

2010-11-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

I've always wanted to crochet a little dress. When I was in the 5th grade, my best friend Kelly Cheales and I signed up for a crochet class that was held during the school lunch hour for the Winter months. I remember it being a really enjoyable time... with the leaves all gone from the trees and the grey skies and dampness always underfoot, it was nice to stay warm and dry inside the brightly lit and vacated classroom (no boys!). I honestly cannot remember if we were given instruction of any kind as far as crocheting was concerned, my memories really only consist of Kelly and myself... crocheting!

While I plodded along learning how to create Granny Squares, Kelly had already acquired the skill of basic crochet from her mother and elder sister and had taken on the amazing task of crocheting a little red Christmas dress for her younger sister... I was absolutely in awe as each day that little dress began to take shape. Somewhere inside myself I had placed the longing to one day be able to crochet a little dress too!

And here I am, only a few weeks shy of turning 50 years old, and the desire of my heart has been met... I've completed a little Lemon Drop Dress for my granddaughter!

I first found the pattern a few weeks ago and while I haphazardly stumbled through trying different ways of altering my stitches to accomodate Makenna's size, I am really pleased with how it turned out. Learning to read a pattern, especially the floral portion was a real challenge to begin with, but I seemed to somehow catch on and it has built confidence in me to try more complicated and creative patterns.

In this picture you can see the little hat that I made to go with the dress, however... as I began to make hats as Christmas gifts for Malea, Olivia and Isabel, I began to love the design so much that I've decided to make one for Makenna, in addition to the one she will already receive, as I think it also compliments the dress nicely and gives it a very 'mod' look! (Now there is a term from the 60's!)

What is so great about this little 'mod' hat is that I actually created the pattern myself! I've never done that before and once again, I am really encouraged to try and do more pattern designing.

Now, if there was only some way to create more Time!

2010-10-24T14:18:00.000-07:00

These Flapper Cloche hats and Fingerless Gloves...

are really catching on this Autumn!

Linda's daughter Gina is presently visiting her family here and has seen the Hat and Glove Set that I had made for her mom's birthday gift and mentioned that she wouldn't mind having a set as well.

I've adorned Gina's hat,
with a natural looking vintage wooden polished button,

set in the centre of the Floral Accessory.

And both the Cloche Hat and Fingerless Gloves

have a saucy little taupe and white polka dotted ribbon running through.

I think Gina would look lovely no matter what she chose to wear, but I do hope that she enjoys her new Autumn and Winter accessories... made just in time to be dropped off at her mom's house before she heads back to her own home tomorrow!

Just had to post this picture of Gina with her two children,

Sam and Lola,

on Halloween night...

love the hat!

(and the cheetah and the ladybug!)

Birthday Girls and Autumn Leaves

2010-10-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

I completely forgot
to take a picture of little Sophia's new hat
that I had made her for her 3rd birthday... so here it is
a few days after her party,
on the birthday girl's head!

I had also tucked into her gift bag a matching pair of fingerless gloves... perfect for keeping a little girl cosy on a beautiful, crisp Autumn day.

2010-10-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am having way too much fun making hats and fingerless gloves... who knew?!

It really doesn't take much time at all and so I find I can slip in a glove here and there, and the hats work up so quickly, it's just a matter of finding the yarn and taking a few moments out.

I enjoy adding the finishing touches of ribbon, chunky flower and finding just the right button.

This button is vintage 1930's and it gives me great pleasure to know that it has found a place to show itself so well!

I have a lovely plaid scarf

that I think will go nicely

with this set.

My next project will be a hat, and perhaps a little pair of fingerless gloves,
for little Sophia's birthday.

I haven't decided on the style yet, or the colour -

and getting the right fit is always the challenge...

but, I'm looking forward to seeing what slips off the end of my crochet hook!

Fingerless Gloves

2010-09-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

I'm now making Fingerless Gloves to go along with the Flapper Cloche Hat.

I think that these are so practical,

keeping the hands warm,

and yet freeing up the fingers!

This is only a 'tester' glove as the bottom portion is made out of some left over cotton yarn, and the portion by the fingers is made from a cotton/synthetic blend.

The blend is actually so close to the cotton in texture, look, comfort and colour, that it really is not a big deal at all. I'm thinking that they would make a great gift, along with a matching hat, for Christmas gifts this year!

Anyway, this 'tester' has given me an idea of how the glove actually works up,

I think they look pretty cute!

They will match my new hat beautifully...

not to mention that they'll look fabulous when I'm driving the Fun Bug this Winter!

Flapper Style Hat

2010-09-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

I've been having fun making hats!

I made a 30's style Flapper Hat for Linda's birthday gift,

and I liked it so much that I make one for myself as well!

It's made from cotton yarn and while Linda's has a flower embellishment made with single yarn, the flower on mine is made by doubling the yarn and I really like the effect!

It's a little hard to see, but in the centre of the flower is snuggled an authentic 1930's button.

I absolutely love my new little hat and plan on making quite a few more!

It just plain makes me happy!

Testing Out Hat Patterns

2010-09-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

I find myself in the mood to make some hats - crocheted hats! It must be the Autumn nip in the air that is causing this stirring inside me or perhaps it was just the joy of seeing one of my other hats finally going home on the head of the little one that I had made it for!

Last year I had crocheted a little beanie hat for Makenna from the leftover wool of my afghan.

The hat didn't go over that well with her daddy, so it has remained as a sweet accessory that's been sitting on my cabinet shelf in the Little Room.

Until this Friday that is!

Makenna had come to play and it was a little chilly outside. So, on went the hat and into the Autumn day we went. When her mom saw the hat later on that day, she loved it, and after dinner, as I stood in the driveway and waved them off on their way home... there was that little hat, sitting on that little head... exactly where it was always meant to be.

I still have some wool left over so I am just beginning to make a few 'tester hats' using different patterns. This is my first pattern attempt.

I am really into the browns, pinks, sage greens and greys right now and so whichever hat I like the most, I will begin making in another colour.

I'm thinking that I wouldn't mind a few cute hats for myself... it's supposed to be a very cold winter!

The Lion King Dress

2010-07-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is, my Lion King dress! I really did not think that I would be able to get this made in time for the evening of the show, as most of my 'sewing' focus these days has been on helping Amanda complete her Lion King dress and making new cushions for the summer gazebo - but, I had one day set aside and so that was the day that I began and finished the dress - I was so pleased.

It is a nice little pattern and the fabric is perfect for the drape of the neck cowl folds. The real test of course comes in the wearing of it, which I did last night as we all attended the Lion King stage production at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. I think that I may take in the waist band a little more, but maybe not - it was VERY comfortable and I felt good in it, albeit perhaps a little bit racy... I never would have chosen this animal print pattern normally, but for the Lion King... it was perfect.

And of course, what other outfit could I actually get away with wearing a necklace of puca shells with?! I wrapped them around my wrist as a bracelet and I was good to go!

Having said all that, I have to add that it is the kind of dress that is not very forgiving in the figure department. Being trim and fit is a definite plus in being able to pull this one off... I'm really going to have to watch that middle age 'thickening of the middle' if I am going to consider wearing this again!

Oh, what we take for granted when we are young!

Eye Spy....

2010-07-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

I've been known to make a few of these little bags from time to time, giving them away as little token gifts, and every so often, when the 'embroidery bug' hits, this little bag is such a quick fix and can be filled with all manner of things.

Both big... and little girls, can find uses for a little embroidered bag.
Little girls can keep their smaller hair accessories in it, or bracelets, perhaps some lip balm or rolls of life-saver candies. I've even stuck a little soft toy rabbit in one and left it on the doorstep for Linda's little granddaughter Sophia to find!

Big girls can hang it off the bed post and have it filled with folded tissues or a nail buffer and file along with a small tube of handcream. It can hold jewellery, loose change, dried lavender from the garden or.... it can be used as a lovely little place to keep your reading glasses!

I am forever misplacing mine, so I decided that I would make this little bag for myself this time, and hang it on the door to my bookcase. Just a little Simple Pleasure, that really took no time at all, but turned out to be not only useful, but cheery as well!

Spots Before My Eyes

2010-06-17T06:17:00.000-07:00

Well... that was a fun little project! With some left-over material and a shiny black button, I was able to make a flower appliqued sewing project bag. It will be home to whatever supplies that I will be needing, for whatever project that I happen to be working on at the time. It has lots of room for material and patterns, and plenty of little pockets inside to house threads and scissors and eye glasses.

I'm always doodling these flowers, they are all over my journal and notepads around the house... so why not have it appliqued onto my bag! Now, I'm away to tuck it full of the things that I will need for my new summer endeavour...

Gramma's Apron Strings

2010-05-31T19:26:00.000-07:00

Today, Margaret came for a visit and to spend some time planning out the pattern for, and sewing, a little apron for her grandson, Graham. Margaret was recently inspired by the apron that I had made for my granddaughter and so very quickly we had the freezer paper out and after designing and cutting out the pattern, Margaret then set to work cutting out the material.

We then headed into the sewing room, set up the ironing board and got to work. After ironing the seam allowances for a nice crisp edge, the sewing machine was threaded and soon began to purr as the top bib and bottom apron edges were completed.

The waistband was the next to go on and so the pinning for that began.

The edges were sewn, leaving the top and middle sections open so as to insert the apron pieces.

Once everything was in place it was sewn all together and things were really beginning to take shape!

The little pocket templates were taken from the outline of a picture frame that happened to be close at hand while we were doing the cutting.

We made sure that the strips were heading in the opposite direction from the rest of the apron so that they stood out, making a bit of a statement. A few extra little details were added...

...and then Margaret checked it out for size!

It was a fun little project to do,

and it was a lovely reason to spend the afternoon with a treasured friend.

Now, here is a look at the little fellow

that will soon be the recipient of all his Gramma's efforts...

... it seems to me that an apron

will not be wasted on this little chef in the making.

Well done, Margaret!

Bag Lady!

2010-05-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally figured out what to do with that vintage curtain fabric that I've been wandering around with for the past few months - may I introduce to you... my brand new Book Bag!

I'm really delighted with the way it turned out and can hardly wait to begin using it...

The design is a combination of things that I incorporated from other bags that I have enjoyed in the past. For instance, I made sure that there were two pockets placed inside - one on either side. This makes for neat and easy access, plenty of room to store my pens and pencils, glasses and pencil crayons.

The body of the bag itself is more than roomy enough for my Bible and study books, and even my lap-top! All the seams are triple re-enforced and the inside lining is a substantial, durable fabric that can handle the extra weight.

The shoulder strap is one continuous piece of fabric that runs around the entire outside edge of the bag for added strength - and beyond its just being plain functional, this bag is simple, soft, comfortable, and perfect for the summer months ahead. I am almost sure that I will be using it all the time... and not just for my books either! It is perfect as an overnight bag or as a summer tote.

So, now that this little project is all completed, and I like it so much, I am actually thinking of making another one and offering it as a Bible Study Giveaway in September... what do you think?

Doodlings and Apron Strings...

2010-04-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I made, at the suggestion of my daughter-in-law, a cute little multi-pocketed Coupon Purse for her to organize her coupons in. I really liked the cheery material that I had chosen for the project and still had a little bit left over...hmm-mm...

So, yesterday afternoon, while on the phone (but on hold), I found myself doodling this...

So, after my call was complete I went and got these...

Freezer wrap and my wedding china -

these would do for my pattern papers and templates.

I then began to cut and pin and sew and embroider...

and in no time at all,

I had this...

It's a cute little summer apron for my granddaughter.

It has a little pearlized adjustable snap closure for the neck strap and is fully lined with the fuschia fabric on the inside...

and it was just so fun to make - so little!

This is a picture of my own apron that I wore as a child - I put a dessert spoon next to it so that you can better judge it's size... it's little! It has stains on it that just will not wash out, it must have been well used!

My mother recently was telling the story, to my family, of how she had walked up to the kindergarten to walk me home, but could not find me. She was quite upset with me and after waiting for a while, walked home by herself, only to find me already there, with my apron on and the grilled cheese just coming out of the oven for both of us to eat for lunch! I was five years old at the time.

I certainly do not expect Makenna to be making me lunch, but I can certainly see her in the summer, with a cute little pair of sandals and her apron on, entertaining her many guests, in the shade, with 'sippy cup lemonade'!

***p.s. I just have a second to update this post as Makenna (presently sitting on my lap!) has come to play this morning! These pictures were taken just a few moments ago, outside on the deck in the morning sunshine.... thought you might like a peek!

A Future Show and Tell!

2010-04-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

I have been working on putting together a quilt as a gift to my mother for Christmas this year. I actually began working on the individual square panels quite a while ago and now that all 12 of them have been completed, it is time to design exactly how I am going to incorporate them into a full quilt using the other corresponding fabrics.

The name of this particular fabric line is called 'Wuthering Heights' designed by '3 Sisters'. Wuthering Heights, starring Lawrence Olivier as Heathcliff, was a favourite movie of mine when I was younger, it must have appealed to my Scot's blood and my young, romantic nature. Of course, it didn't hurt that the main female character's name was 'Cathie' and when that mighty wind wuthered around the heights of the moors it seemed to moan ... C-a-t-h-i-e-ee.

Wuther means 'a mighty wind that blows strongly and makes a roaring sound'. Honestly, it is going to take a mighty wind to get this girl's sails in a flap to move ahead on this quilt! - this is not a project that I anticipate getting done in a hurry - but I promise that I will show you the end result of my labours when all is completed. As I very rarely get apprehensive about any project that I undertake... I am a little surprised at how daunting this one seems to be to me. However, I am well on my way now, and actually, I am looking forward to what this will look like at the end of it all!

Afghans and Scattered Flowers...

2010-04-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

In my last post I had written...

"It has just dawned on me, that in all of my crocheting projects over the years, I have never once made anything for myself! And so, as a special treat, I purchased some lovely Chunky wool in a delicious Butter Cream shade and have started to crochet a soft and downy afghan to snuggle up with. It should be done in just a few days - with a few little fun embellishments added! - and when it is, I'll let you see the finished product!"

Well, it is finally done! It really didn't take much time at all and I am so pleased with the results. It has a really nice weight to it and drapes nicely.

I always like the look of a finished border on the afghans that I make and although I like them to be substantial it's also important that they don't take away, but rather add, to the over all look. I was pleased at the effect that this border has achieved... and it feels so good!

I usually don't like to embellish very much, but I had been thinking of adding a little something extra from the moment that I even started my first chain! As I continued on and the afghan began to grow in length, I thought of how much I enjoy, in the summer, when flower petals or leaves from the garden happen to be blown onto the quilt that I lay upon while reading on the grass in our backyard.

So, with that in mind, I crocheted a few flowers to scatter across the afghan as a pleasant reminder to me of lovely Summer days.

And that's it! I hope you enjoyed taking a peek at my new snuggly afghan!

A Special Treat

2010-04-03T07:40:00.000-07:00

It has just dawned on me, that in all of my crocheting projects over the years, I have never once made anything for myself! And so, as a special treat, I purchased some lovely Chunky wool in a delicious Butter Cream shade and have started to crochet a soft and downy afghan to snuggle up with. It should be done in just a few days - with a few little fun embellishments added! - and when it is, I'll let you see the finished product!

Show and Tell Thursday!

2010-04-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

click pictures to enlarge

I've been doing a little Spring cleaning of my closet recently and was pleased to see that it is beginning to reflect a closet where many of it's garments have been hand-made.

This little summer dress is made from T-shirt soft jersey - it is so-o-o comfortable and easy to wear, just pull it on and go! It has capped sleeves and it wraps to gather at the side, and the back seam at the waist dips into a V-shape adding interest to the lines. It is the kind of dress that looks good with flip-flops, sandals or dressy, strappy shoes.

I originally had made it to wear to the ABBA movie last year - but it poured that night and so I opted for jeans and a sweater instead! So the first 'outing' that this little pink dress got was to last years Bible Study Wind-up at Marnie and Angie's home.... what a bunch of bathing beauty hams!

I enjoyed my little summer pink dress so much that I made a Fall version of the same pattern. I added sleeves and a collar and a skinny wrap belt. I also added cuffs to the sleeves, button holing both sides, then I covered four buttons in the same material and by joining two together made cute little button cuff links to match the dress and finish the look.

I quite often duplicate patterns that I really like. For instance, this Raw Silk pantsuit was made from material given as a gift to me by my Uncle's wife, material that they had purchased on their trip to the Orient many years previous and stored for as many years. I was thrilled with this generous gift and was determined to put it to good use.

The jacket is actually quite simple in design, but the ruffled collar adds that little bit extra. The single button closure at the waist incorporates a covered button in the same material and the front opened flare of the jacket keeps it from looking 'stuffy'.

Here is the Winter version of the same pattern. This time done in a blue wool, also a gift from my Uncle' wife, purchased while they were in Scotland. Once again, the ruffle adds interest and the front button is covered in fabric. I like covering the buttons with fabric so that the garment can be dressed up or down easily and jewellery choices are easily transitioned. I included a picture from the back so that you can see the seam lines and how they add to the overall look of the jacket.

I lined the pants for added comfort and warmth and wear this suit quite often. The great thing about having a suit is that the jacket and pants can be worn as separates - which I do quite often. This particular jacket looks great with jeans and a leather belt!

I won't bore you with everything that is in my closet, so I'll close with this light and airy blouse. It is made from crepe (and yes, it too has a peachy tied-dyed twin) and is so comfortable to wear. It has gathers on the side and lovely flared sleeves. I added a slit in the side to allow the wrap belt to easily pass through as the one front drapes over the other.

Well, there you have it.... I hope you enjoyed my Show and Tell Thursday!

Sew Done!

2010-03-04T20:18:00.000-08:00

Finally... my Little French Sewing Sewing Room has been completed!

I am looking forward to sharing it with you in the days ahead - and also sharing with you those things that come from it. My prayer has always been, in whatever I do, that it would be a blessing to others in some way... may you somehow be blessed.

I still have a few things to add, pictures to frame, Abigail (my dress form sewing mannequin) to redress and a few other things here and there. I find that any room that I have in my home is never 'done'. They are always evolving in some way or another, I anticipate that my Little French Sewing Room will be no different.

So, here are a few, quickly taken pictures, to give you a flavour of the delightful place that I now have to create in...

The drapes were easily sewn together in a few hours...

and the 8 foot long table will soon have one more matching chair;

perfect for two sewers to sit, side by side (my daughter-in-law has asked for sewing lessons);

or just plain room enough for me to zip from one machine to the other!

The more than generous baskets hold all of my ribbons and trim, serger spools, and larger items,

and are within easy reach...

The 'peg-board' is an old picture frame that I had painted black.

It is padded, with ribbon criss-crossed over the fabric, and further enhanced with vintage buttons.

A perfect place to pin my patterns and notes!

The dresser was purchased at a second-hand shop for $30...

it was the 1930's style mirror that originally caught my interest.

It too was painted black,

and given new white knobbed handles.

It has lovely, long pull out drawers which easily houses all of my fabrics.

And the two side cupboards are generous spaces for extra storage of materials, such as linings, batting and quilting squares.

Not the best picture... but there is my little chair!

It sits beside a wall stencil of a little table...

a chair that's just ready for you to pull up and sit down on,

whenever you drop by!

Matters of the Heart...

2010-02-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

One of my favourite things to do, whenever I go to the Quilting Shop, is to look through their assortment of 'Fat Quarters'.

Just this past week, I came across this selection of materials, and immediately thought of my mother. These colours are not what I am usually most drawn to, but my mother loves the deeper tones of browns, russets and reds. I made my purchase, knowing exactly what I was going to make for her.

In less than 24 hours, my mother will be undergoing open heart surgery. I have heard that soft pillows are a necessary, and highly recommended, part of the recovery process as they ease the discomfort of the patient whenever they sneeze or cough or even when they have to clear their throat. I've seen the pillows that they give out in the hospital... they are red, shaped like a heart and have a graphic drawing of the heart with all it's chambers and arteries highlighted in blue, back and front... hmm-mm...I may be out there, but I'm thinking that perhaps that kind of pillow may prove to hinder, rather than help, recovery!

So, I drew up a simple pattern of what I thought I would like the pillow to look like and then began to cut and sew. As I embroidered 'Simple Comforts' on both sides, I gave thanks to 'The God of All Comfort', and brought before Him all matters of the heart, knowing that as I did - His perfect will be done.

I was pleased that I was able to incorporate, in the trim, a new technique that I have just recently learned; I was happy with the results and certainly plan on using it again!

The pillow turned out soft and 'cushy', and as my mom will be celebrating her 81st birthday in just a few days, I hope that she will be able to enjoy the 'simple comforts' of her new little pillow.

Keeping it Simple...

2010-02-09T17:33:00.000-08:00

Recently, I acquired a few old foot stools that need to be re-covered, however, because I don't have the time right now to upholster them properly, I decided to just slip-cover one of them, for the time being, with some vintage materials that I have on hand.

It only took a few hours to sew together and I was able to incorporate an antique, unfinished doily on the top and embroider a gentle reminder to myself!

I really like the 'rumpled charm' that this little footstool now has, and may choose to keep it this way... plus, it's just the perfect height and softness for a certain little 1 year old someone to rest her weary little self on after a full morning spent on her feet.

While my scissors and thread were out anyway, I decided to go ahead and make a Barley Pillow as well. I had seen one at our local Quilting shop last week and was really taken with it.

With remnant materials, I made and filled the pillow, then sewed together a sweet little cotton pillow overcase, added some embroidery and ribbon enclosures, and have been heating it up in the microwave for 2 minutes each evening since and draping it around my neck for the most 'Simple of Comforts'.

Hooked...

2010-02-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, Linda asked me if I would teach her how to knit. I organized a little evening at another knitter's home and with visions of other women gathering with us in the days that lay ahead, I promptly named our little group.... The Knit-Wits.

We knit one, pearled two... and never gathered again.

Tomorrow, I will be picking up my knitting bag once again, this time heading over to Linda's to hopefully pass along what little I know about crocheting.

Just us, our yarn, crochet hooks.... and no name.

A few days ago I had passed along the blog link of Jennifer Paganelli to Linda.

Jennifer has dropped into Pure Grace from time to time and I have really enjoyed this girl's creativity, artistry and generous heart. As Linda was looking through Jennifer's postings she happened to come across some pictures of pillow cases, made from Jennifer's fabrics, by Beata Basik from Rose Hip.

Linda was immediately taken with the crocheted edging that Beata had done and there you have it! Our crochet date is for tomorrow!

Good Things...

2010-01-12T14:56:00.000-08:00

Good things come to those who wait... and this week I am definitely a recipient of a good thing...

my Little French Sewing Room is finally under way!

The plumber (my brother-in-law) was in today dealing with this...

My husband and youngest son have been dealing with this...

and this...

The drywaller will be in tomorrow to deal with this...

And this...

And so I was inspired to take this...

And do this...

Last Summer I had found a little wrought iron chair that was regularly priced at $30.00 on sale for $5 (hard to resist!).

I made a little black and white polka-dot cushion for it with some material that was purchased while checking out a fabric store with Linda last Fall, and used some lovely left-over ribbon that I had tucked away and voila!... a perfect little chair for my new Sewing Room!

Fun!

The Element of Frustration!

2009-12-12T15:19:00.000-08:00

This is so-o-o frustrating... ! It seems as if everything that I am making at the moment are intended as gifts and so the element of surprise would be taken away from the recipient if I was to show them here... however, I am working on a little something that I will be able to show you shortly!

In the meantime, I have found a delightful little blog called Sew, Mama, Sew! If you enjoy sewing and creativity as much as I do you should check this link out.

Have fun!

Baby Blankets

2009-12-11T16:19:00.000-08:00

I've been making baby blankets! I try and make one for every baby in the family and just recently I was asked whether I would consider making them for others to purchase. I'm still thinking...

They really are heirloom pieces. I still treasure the one that was made for my first son and it is now used as a throw over my chaise lounge and is great to cuddle up with whenever I settle down to read.

The pattern of the ones that I make is really one of a kind, a combination of a few patterns that I have used over the years.

I just love the little detailed accents. Elegant, cushy, and definitely baby durable!

A Little... Sewing Needle Case!

2009-10-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

click on pictures to enlarge

Well, were you able to make a guess?

It's a little Sewing Needle Case!

I don't have a pattern for this, although I am thinking of how I could improve the theme of it. But I kind of like the sweet 'old world' look of it. Not contrived, it just... is.

Shiny new needles all in a row... elegant!

I love the look and feel of Pearled Pins...

Ribbons and Buttons... lovely!

This little vintage button has no other function than to sit and look a little cheeky while the cream ribbon bow holds things together!

I hope that my friend enjoys her little birthday Sewing Needle Case as much as I enjoyed making it.

with love,

Can You Guess?

2009-10-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

I'm doing a little project today. It's for a friend that saw a little item that I had made for myself a while back... and liked it. I knew right away that I was going to make one for her as well.

As she was just recently away on a trip to visit family, and as her birthday just happened to be while she was away, and as she has just returned home, I thought that this rainy day would be a perfect time to sew this little item together to have ready to give to her the next time we get together.

I don't want to needle you too much... but can you guess what it might be?

Just in case you need a clue... there are three of them hidden in this little post!

Little Miss Lady... Bug!

2009-10-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

click on pictures to enlarge

Well, were you able to make a guess? I know that I didn't give you a whole lot to go on, but it's a Treat Bag for my grand-daughter! She will be dressing up as a Lady Bug this year and I just feel that every Lady, bug or not, needs a place to tuck away her treats!

This was so much fun to make. I drew out a plan for a pattern, cut the pattern out of freezer paper using a salad bowl as a template, cut out the fabric according to the pattern and in no time at all... the bug bag was done!

Now... the task of coming up with the treats to put in it!

p.s. An e-mail came in asking if the Treat Bag is lined... yes it is, in red!

Can You Guess?

2009-10-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

Earlier this morning I headed off to the Fabric Shop to pick up a few items for a project that I am working on. I've just threaded the machine and am about ready to start sewing and thought that I would take a moment to show you some of the materials that I will be working with... can you guess what it will be?

Mothers, Wombs, Knitting and God

2009-09-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

As lovely as our weather is... Fall is definitely in the air! The shadows are growing longer as the days are growing shorter - and in the midst of it all - my knitting basket is looking more and more appealing!

I try and make a new little blanket for each new baby that comes into our family and as my cousin's daughter will soon be having her second child, I have already begun to crochet a sweet little pattern.

I always enjoy praying for the baby while I knit or crochet, giving thanks for life, and for Life in His Name. For being born, and for being Born Again.

I enjoy the softness of the wool and the warmth that it provides me as it grows larger and sits upon my lap in the cooler evenings. I think about how soon it will have the sweet scent of a new little one woven into its fibres and how it will naturally drape and fold around tiny little hands and feet and that cute little bottom!

And I quite often think of how God Himself enjoys 'Knitting'. In Psalm 139 we see that He Himself formed our inward parts; and that He Himself wove us - knit us - in our mother's womb.

Mothers, wombs, knitting, and God. It just seems right somehow that my little knitting basket would beckon me this afternoon... that I would take pause in my day and think upon these things.

Buttons and Lace

2009-09-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

click to enlarge pictures

Not too long ago, my friend Wendy had the daunting and emotional task of sorting through many of her deceased Aunt's belongings. As she undertook to navigate her way through the items, Wendy came across many of her Aunt's sewing things and one afternoon asked if perhaps I was interested in looking at some of them.

A few weeks later, after a lovely visit, I was taken downstairs and shown through the boxes and bags. I have still to sort through all that was given so kindly to me, but I just had to show you a few of the lovely vintage items.

I just know that the cotton and lace will be well used in many of my projects and will most definitely soon find their way into Altered Books and Journals, to be enjoyed for years to come!

I can just see these little beauties being made into a velvet cuff bracelet or incorporated into a lovely beaded vintage necklace!

These weighty little pendants are unique and beautiful... once again my head is reeling with ideas on how to use them!

These yummy and substantial bone buttons are very Art Deco and would look great on a linen jacket or elegant cardigan!

These little sparkling buttons caught my eye right away... wouldn't they make great button cuff links for a fall or winter blouse?

VERY 1930's! Classy, elegant and just look great all grouped together on a dressing table!

These remind me of those little beaded candies that you find in a box of Licorice Allsorts!

A little more demure perhaps than her aforementioned sisters... but that's what makes this little button so lovely and charming!

Definitely Altered Book material!

My head is just FULL of creative ideas on how to use these vintage items and somehow I think that Wendy's Aunt would be pleased to know that her lovely and unique buttons and lace will be made into something that will not only showcase their beauty but bless others as well.

Hope you enjoyed!

2009-09-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

My Little French Sewing Room is presently in the remodelling stage - all the elements are just waiting to be put into place. I began the black and white theme a few years ago, little places here and there throughout our home... I am looking forward to sharing this Little Room with you and all that will come from it!

Stay Tuned!