Who doesn’t love yummy fabric and amazing patterns? If you don’t love those then you are reading the wrong blog! If you do, then read on cause I am going to tell you of both! I know two ladies, Trixie of Trixie’s Fabric and April of Dandelions n’ Dungarees, that treated me to what I would say would be the ultimate banana split of the sewing world! Yes, fabric and patterns. Best ever!!

First we will start off with the fabric. After all with no fabric, there is no sewing! I have always admired Euro knits however they are a bit more expensive than I am used to. After using them though, they are worth every penny. This was my chance to try one! The fabrics I chose were Matryoshka Russian Nesting Doll Organic Euro Knit, and the Purple on Purple Dots and Stripes. These are all cotton lycra with a 4 way stretch. All quality knits and a joy to sew with. Trixie even helped me out with coordinates by taking a photo of the fabrics together to make sure they work together. Made choosing a combo so easy! She also has a Facebook group for specials, pre-orders, and to show off your works of art with Trixie’s Fabrics!

Now you ready to hear what I did with those yummy fabrics? I saw these two patterns when she put out the tester call but didn’t have time to test then. So I was very excited when April asked me to review the new Flyaway Ruffle Cardigan and Saucy Skirt. Let’s start with the cardigan shall we? This lovely cardigan is available in baby sizes (NB-24mo), child sizes (2-7), and tween sizes (8-16). It uses knit fabric to create a fun look with a little ruffle bustle area on the back. There are instructions included on how to make a bow to embellish the back with if you’d like as well. It closes with a button and button loop. No need for a button hole!! While I made mine for everyday wear, there were others who made it out of dressy fabric like lace for a dressy look. This pattern is really fun and versatile!

The Saucy Skirt is sure to please any fashion forward little lady and also packs amazing twirl power! It also comes in baby sizes (NB-24mo), child sizes (2-7), and tween sizes (8-16). This skirt features a drop waist with a single, double, or double with sassy tie options. The skirt portion is a circle skirt which is where it gets its twirl ability! I just love the double skirt with the sassy tie for that peek a boo look.

Both these patterns are a ton of fun and I enjoyed sewing these up. I would say these are good for even a beginner that can follow directions well as there are several steps. Because of the amount of steps it is classified as an intermediate pattern. I sewed up the size 12mo and the fit was just what it said it would be. A tad large on my girl as she is between 9 and 12mo sizes right now. I like it a little big though as it will last all season! I had no issues with either pattern. The steps were all clear and the pattern fit together perfect. There was only one thing that I changed and that was the width of the panel for the sassy tie. I found that to be too wide and cut an inch off of it. I would also place it more towards the hem line in order for the bow to be shown off more. That is it! Can’t wait to make more!

Wondering about the leggings? Those are the Jocelyn Leggings by Everything Your Mama Made. They are super easy leggings that come in sizes NB-18 and women’s. I just love the yoga waist which allows for no elastic! So comfy!

Ready to do some shopping? You won’t regret any of these purchases. Visit Trixie’s Fabrics on Etsy for more amazing fabrics. Now that you have the fabric you need the patterns! You can get any of the sizes of the Flyaway Cardigan and Saucy Skirt or buy the bundles with all the sizes. Don’t forget the Jocelyn Leggings either. They come in a bundle pack too. Happy sewing!

Have you heard of One Thimble? No? Well it’s a good thing you are reading this today then! I first heard of One Thimble when they first started publishing; however I had yet to have the chance to actually get a copy and see what it is like until now. Wondering what it is? It’s an e-zine- which is a digital sewing magazine for sewing enthusiasts!

I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. Do you know how many magazines I’ve gotten and still haven’t read? Tons! I knew they included lots of patterns in their issues and there were articles as well, but with magazines you never know if you will actually find something in there just for you. You know what I mean? Well, let me say that I just loved reading this issue and now I WANT MORE! The articles are diverse on topics so that they can “talk” to us whether we are professionals who sell our items or just getting our feet wet in the sewing world. Tips, tricks, tutorials, suppliers, you name it it’s in there. Even exclusive discounts! This particular issue even has Christmas goodies for the holiday season!

Now before I jump straight into what I sewed out of the issue I want to give a little shout out to one particular tutorial that I LOVED! It’s called The Practical Guide to Serger Cleaning & Oiling. I am very horrible on keeping my serger cleaned. And I will admit, please don’t judge, I think the only time I have ever cleaned by serger is when it was taken to the shop for maintenance (which I guess means I didn‘t really clean it…). Yes, I am a horrible serger mother. I am hoping to set this straight soon though as this tutorial makes cleaning your serger look so easy. I didn’t even think that my tensions were off because it was dirty! It makes sense though!

Now in order to celebrate the amazingness (yes, I created a word) of One Thimble I created a girl superhero look using two of the patterns in the e-zine. These are the Helios Dress by Golden Rippy and the Sweet Grace Ruffled Headband by Snickerdoodle Stew.

The Helios Dress is just plain fun! It is a tent style dress with a zipper in back, which by the way, isn’t hard to install at all. This comes in sizes 1-12yrs too! It’s long in my girl as she’s short. I didn’t try to shorten it either as with the pieces front I’m not sure how that would work. I actually love the maxi look though! The sun flare color blocking on the front just screams summer, however don’t let that stop you from having fun with a variety of different fabrics for tons of different looks. It is SUPER fun to create a personalized look for your special girl! My girl loves her brothers and playing with their toys which includes their superheroes It is only fitting to make a superhero themed dress in honor of her brothers as they are like her superheroes, especially her youngest older brother. She is like a sidekick to him! Can you tell?

Every super baby needs a super accessory! Sweet Grace Ruffled Headband to the rescue! The pattern is a SUPER easy and SUPER quick that gives a SUPER cute look all while using scraps of fabric and trims. It works for any sweet girl from newborn to adult. I love the versatility of this one. You can change the look by how you finish the ruffles, how many layers, trim option, and button option. This headband alone could go with every single creation and still give a different look each time!

Ready to get your own copy?? You won’t be disappointed! The articles, tips, tricks, guides (there is an interfacing guide!! That cleared up a lot of my interfacing questions!), and so much more are all super helpful and great for any level you may be at on your sewing journey. You can get your copy here! There is also a Rafflecopter giveaway for a chance to win your own copy so don’t forget to enter and tell your friends about it too! Now off to start my next project! Happy Sewing!

Oh don’t forget to check out all the stops on the tour. So much eye candy!

Who is ready to do a little self care sewing? Yes ladies, you deserve it! What better to sew than a new purse? Not your thing (I totally understand, but you may want to make an exception this time) then perhaps make one to give as a gift. The holidays are looming closer! Now add giving to charity with some gift or self care sewing and you have the perfect excuse to buy the Perfect Pattern Parcel #7! It is here! I know I love getting the parcel. Great patterns, great price, great impact, what more could I ask for.

Don’t know what the pattern parcel is? Well over at Perfect Pattern Parcel they support independent (inde) designers by helping us sewists to purchase these patterns at a name your own price bundle! They also donate all the profits after expenses from the sales to charity. This year the goal is to raise over $20,000 for Donors Choose. This is the last parcel of the year so we need your help to go out with a bang!

There are parcel prices of $20-$58 and even a custom option for those that want to donate extra. Now if you spend $32 or more you get the bonus pattern! Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss the bonus pattern. It’s an exclusive release for the Pattern Parcel and the bag I chose to make!

This is the brand new Daphne Bag from Clover & Violet. This good size slouchy satchel has options for cross body or shoulder strap that closes with a zipper. On the inside it has a zipper pocket and an open pocket. Now this pattern typically features a more pieced and quilted look as that is how the pattern is supposed to be. I wanted to feature my much coveted Cotton and Steele horse fabric so I decided to do a non quilted version. I just love it! It is a good size bag that I can use for just about anything. There is plenty of space to hold not only my wallet, phone and keys, but also to stash a couple extra diapers, wipes, and snacks for the kids with room to spare. I am a mama of 3 kids so this purse is a great way to have a little fashion without sacrificing function! I especially love the detail of the tab on the zipper!

Yes that is my horse modeling my bag for me.  I didn’t have anyone to take a photo of me with my awesome new bag so I improvised.  He was such a good sport!  He carries it pretty well if you ask me.  I think his friends where even a little jealous!

Ready to head on over and get your own Perfect Pattern Parcel? Just click on the button below and pick the perfect parcel for yourself! Don’t forget to see all the other lovely bags on the tour for inspiration in what you can do with all the patterns!

Parcel #4 Inspiration Tour Schedule:

Friday, November 7

Stitched ||

Sew Exhausted

Saturday, November 8

Made by Sara ||Oliver’s Fancy ||

Strawberry Patch Ramblings

Sunday, November 9

from a box ||

Mia’s Creations ||

MOMENTS

Monday, November 10

owen’s olivia ||

While she was sleeping

Tuesday, November 11

Nutta ||

Radiant Home Studio ||

La Pantigana

Wednesday, November 12

Sew Fishsticks ||

Stacy Sews ||

Stitching Insane ||

GnomeAngel

Thursday, November 13

Needle and Ted ||

Patchouli Moon Studio ||

Sprouting JubeJube ||

The Crazy Tailor

Friday, November 14

Casa Crafty ||

A Jennuine Life ||

‘So, Zo… What do you know?’

Saturday, November 15

Stitches by Laura ||

Rebekah Sews ||

Serger Pepper

Sunday, November 16

Blogs Like A Mother ||

Vicky Myers creations ||

Blossom Heart Quilts

Monday, November 17

Shanni Loves ||

So Sew Easy ||

GYCT Designs ||

Tiger In A Tornado

Tuesday, November 18

The Nosy Pepper ||

Keep Calm and Carrion ||

There & Back ||

Sewing Sober

Wednesday, November 19

Sew Like My Mom ||

Knot Sew Normal ||

Stacy Sews ||

sewVery

Thursday, November 20

Mimi’s Mom ||

Our Family Four ||

shades of BOLD ||

Modern Handcraft

Friday, November 21

Shawnta Sews ||

Lulu & Celeste ||

Amanda Rose ||

Robin’s Fabric Nest ||

House of Pinheiro

Who else likes taking an already awesome pattern and using it to create something that is uniquely yours with little modifications? I know when I first started sewing, modifying a pattern or adding something to it that wasn’t part of the pattern was rather scary. Once you get more confident in your own sewing skills the possibilities become endless. That being said, when I had the chance to be part of the Pimp That Pattern Tour of Little Kiwi’s Closet Romper and Playsuit patterns I gladly jumped at the opportunity.

I had originally planned to pimp out the playsuit as I have made it before and loved the outcome both times. It’s a cute onsie pattern with a peasant neckline and many sleeve options. Ranging in sizes NB-4yrs, it is the perfect addition to any little ones wardrobe. However my plans soon changed when I came up with a great idea on how to pimp the romper instead. I couldn’t wait to get started.

The results where better than I had imagined! I know you want to hear about the modifications I made but I want to first tell you about the pattern! The Flutterby Romper comes in sizes NB-12yrs. There are a ton of features in this pattern that make it perfect for both babies and older girls. These include many sleeve options, instructions for snap crotch, pockets, shorts and pants options as well. You could literally make a different style romper each time you make this pattern by changing up the options you use each time. And of course the tutorial walks you through every step so even a beginner could make this pattern.

Ready to find out how I made it more of an empire waist with a skirt? I know I am ready to tell you! First an easy add was the lace overlay on the sleeves.  I just cut 2 sleeve pieces in the lace and 2 of the lining fabric.  Usually the elastic at the waist falls at the waist. In order to make this look I needed to raise it to an empire waist. This was accomplished by cutting the bottom of the top pattern piece 2.75″ below the arm pit curve. I then added that piece to the top of both the front and back pants pattern pieces. This raised the waist to an empire cut. I then continued to follow the tutorial exactly as written until it was time to add the waist elastic. To add the skirt you need to cut two band pieces the width of the romper plus seam allowances that is about 2″ in length. I then also cut two ruffle pieces (enough to fold over so you don’t have to hem) and 2 skirt pieces to my desired width based on the fullness I wanted. I then sewed the band, ruffle, and skirt into a circle for each piece. Gather the ruffle piece and skirt pieces. You will then attach the ruffle to the top of the band with RST and also attach the skirt to the bottom of the band with RST. Don’t topstitch yet! You will do this when attaching it to the romper. Now slide the romper into the skirt and line up the skirt so that the band is centered over the elastic casing and the seams of the skirt and ruffle are pointing in towards the center of the band. Topstitch all the way around the band 1/4’ away from the ruffle and skirt portions. This will attach it to the romper. Now if you look on the inside of the romper you will see that your elastic casing is still intact. You can go ahead and finish the romper now! How fun is that?

Ready to try out either the playsuit or romper yourself? Head on over to Little Kiwi’s Closet’s Craftsy store and get one or both. They are even 30% off during the tour. There is also a giveaway too! Just link up your playsuit or romper and you could win two patterns from Little Kiwi’s Closet! Link up here-> An InLinkz Link-up

Now it’s your turn. I challenge you to step outside of your comfort zone, try something new and make it your own. Have fun pimping it out! (That sounded better in my head…LOL)

Oh, and don’t forget to check out all the stops on the tour for more inspiration!

3rd November

2girls1orca1pukeko.blogspot.com

www.gingerbear.wordpress.com

4th November

Www.petitgigihandmade.blogspot.pt

http://dribblepotsandtots.wordpress.com

5th November

www.calmandcarrion.blogspot.com

Sew-not-perfect.blogspot.com

www.sewoutofcontrol.wordpress.com

6th November

www.conversasdehermanas.com

fairykissesboutique.blogspot.com

7th November

http://anapprenticehousewife.blogspot.com/?m=1

www.mendandmakenew.co.nz

8th November

Www.rebekahsews.com

https://www.diy-crush.com/blog/

Now that Halloween has passed it is time to get ready for the other holidays to come! You know what that means…time to start those Holiday outfits. Do you realize that there are only 7 weeks till Christmas?? Yes, take a deep breath. You got this! I know I was so happy to be able to participate in this tour as it made me finish my baby girl’s Christmas dress on time! I couldn’t be happier with the results either. Just take a look at Kenzie’s Party Dress and Skirt by Everything Your Mama Made (EYMM) and you know you have yourself an amazing dress or skirt!

Let’s take a look at this pattern shall we? First off it comes in separated patterns for NB-4T, 5-18 tween, and a doll add on. Want all the sizes? You can get the bundle too at a discount! I just love that you can create so many different looks with this pattern. Included are options for the signature full layered skirt and a simple skirt, sleeveless or puff cap sleeve, and two different high waisted skirts. Did you take a look at the back? The scooped back is just so elegant. The bodice is fully lined for that professional finish too. There is also a sash that is full and beautiful. On either side of the sash there is a little gathering to create that full look. The tutorial is put together very well in order to walk you through each step. That being said I would say this pattern is on the intermediate level but the advanced beginner would feel comfortable doing the simple skirt. One feature I particularly love is the planning guide to help you figure out fabric placement for the signature skirt. It made figuring out which fabric went where a breeze!

I just love lace for the holidays. I knew that I wanted to make the signature skirt out of lace. Also one bonus for making the skirt in lace…I didn’t have to hem every flounce! Yay! I choose a size 9-12mo according to the measurements, however after cutting the skirt panels I knew that it would be a little tight in the rear area. I then re-cut with the length of the 9-12mo but the width of the 12-18mo. That worked out perfectly. Now, I prefer baby girl’s dresses to have sleeves as I don’t like covering up a beautiful dress with a sweater. I just knew I had to try my hand at adding long sleeves to the dress along with the little cap sleeve too. They aren’t perfect as you can see but they work and will keep her a little warmer. I just love the finished dress. It came out just as I imagined!

Want the pattern? Really, how could you not? Well head on over to the shop and grab your copy. Don’t forget to use coupon code LITTLELADY for 30% off until 11:59pm PST on 11/12/2014.

There is also a Rafflecopter giveaway with some awesome prizes! You could win a total of $125 worth of prizes that include a $50 EYMM gift certificate, Stitchbox Monthly November Sewing Box ($35 value), $25 EYMM gift certificate, and a Little Lady Sheet of Jamberry Juniors Nail Wraps ($15 retail). Don’t forget to link up your own amazing dress for even more chances to win! —> An InLinkz Link-up

Dress it up or make it funky! This pattern is sure to make your little girl feel very special! Check out the other amazing skirts and dress on the tour for more inspiration!

Let it Snow!  (So not ready for real snow but it sure does look pretty!)

Lots of fun things happening this week! It’s doing to be a busy one. First thing on the agenda is the Ansley Top and Dress Tour for Blaverry Patterns! This is the very first pattern I have ever done by Blaverry. I just love the style of this top/dress. Before I go into exactly why, let’s first take a look at the nitty gritty of the pattern.

The Ansley Top and Dress is a loose fitting, flowing, yet classic design. It comes in sizes 9mo-14yrs. What’s one of the best features? Well, the options of course! I think I counted like 15 different options to choose from. These options include collar type or no collar, different sleeve lengths including a 3/4 sleeve with or without a cuff, different hem options, and different top or dress options. Yes it is packed full! Other great features include a fully illustrated tutorial and layered sizing so you can print only the size you need. Yes, options are amazing!

Ready to hear exactly why I love this style? The silhouette. I love hi-lo tops, so the fact that this pattern included that option gave this girl a dreamy sigh. I just love the way it billows behind. For baby girls top I made a size 18mo. You should definitely go by measurements on this pattern. My girl typically wears a 9-12mo or 12mo size in most patterns however this pattern put her in a size 18mo as her chest size was a tad bigger than the chest measurement for 12mo. Because the pattern is roomy I could have gotten away with the 12mo but the 18mo certainly will last the winter. Since it is now colder here in New England the 3/4 sleeves where perfect along with the cuffs. My cuffs didn’t fit perfectly onto my sleeve. They didn’t go all the way around the sleeve and meet perfectly (there was about a 1.5cm gap) so I put a little pleat in the end so they met. Not a big deal, I think it just looks nicer that way. Now are you wondering about the band around the hem? That was my add on. I don’t know about the dress versions, but with the hi- lo version the shirt front is short. There was no access for a basic hem and I prefer no belly shirts, so my solution was a band around the hem. Now add one big button and you have the final touch to this shirt!

The end result is beautiful. I know I will definitely be making more and can’t wait to try the dress version too. I would rate this an advanced beginner to intermediate pattern as you have a placket and collar to sew. Don’t let that intimidate you too much though, as you have those options! You can make it without the collar if you’d like.

Ready to get your own copy? There is a special sale going on for the tour! Head on over to the Etsy shop and use coupon code ILOVEBLAVERRY10 for 10% off. Don’t forget to check out the other patterns as well. There are so many that are now on my list to buy!

Don’t forget to check out the other stops on the tour!!