tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-149906242024-03-07T14:36:52.947-05:00The Seek SpeakA record of the various projects and pursuits of the Seeks.seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.comBlogger268125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-7086025159409840892012-10-12T23:55:00.002-05:002012-10-12T23:55:46.487-05:00And... She's Alive, Folks!Oh, what's that? Summer and half of Autumn have packed up and already come and gone since I last posted?? But I... I...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmhA4iJ5EQU3Z7QEb9hBCd7i7rpMYv70K3j7PgN4Bm1YCZRsrwARvcnfElsmxnzjUxfmxcwzjAiBKUfod8EPeAc66n4Pt32uF5ySgDvPw9ianturINErboPg39rWKil4aQeUP/s1600/IMG_6114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmhA4iJ5EQU3Z7QEb9hBCd7i7rpMYv70K3j7PgN4Bm1YCZRsrwARvcnfElsmxnzjUxfmxcwzjAiBKUfod8EPeAc66n4Pt32uF5ySgDvPw9ianturINErboPg39rWKil4aQeUP/s1600/IMG_6114.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's my belly folks, not my rockin' booty.</td></tr>
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I was busy. Busy slackin'. Busy being delightfully pregnant. Persistently tired and having an excuse to slow down a bit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsRplZYPjLC4teKpn7Y8q-BXykvLqhiNNe0a3GxavSX2DcaGpYOgBpQZXksggdLhS3vCfWdNMjrw5N3rAluesm8ii8dqw4b93KCNqgO8dJFqh5zI5hVFmvpwLSk8RMAX4Lwah/s1600/IMG_6012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsRplZYPjLC4teKpn7Y8q-BXykvLqhiNNe0a3GxavSX2DcaGpYOgBpQZXksggdLhS3vCfWdNMjrw5N3rAluesm8ii8dqw4b93KCNqgO8dJFqh5zI5hVFmvpwLSk8RMAX4Lwah/s1600/IMG_6012.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henna for the belly!</td></tr>
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Quite frankly, I never got that major nesting urge that other women talk about. Which, of course, I had been relying on getting to finish all of the cleaning and sewing that I had hoped to do. But I didn't get the urge, so I didn't get them done.<br />
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Instead, I did manage to bring this little delight into the world: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3yVV7X3eeU2pYd_cE210J-PTWuEv6Q1O25WDFbsziJO77Z5PjFvtJWTAj-4f1wJHWGDmyyWzJdCWLyUWmbTV3EkplLtjy5nIAf7fHkAx7lS80qRo_fIS3v1imASACt3dQfOL/s1600/IMG_6203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3yVV7X3eeU2pYd_cE210J-PTWuEv6Q1O25WDFbsziJO77Z5PjFvtJWTAj-4f1wJHWGDmyyWzJdCWLyUWmbTV3EkplLtjy5nIAf7fHkAx7lS80qRo_fIS3v1imASACt3dQfOL/s640/IMG_6203.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lolo!</td></tr>
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Blogosphere, meet my LoloFe. She entered this world on the 8th of September via C-Section, but not without putting up a solid effort to be born feet-first into the world. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWU83-y29Ngs3zvGg20cmGkRKcQqPYO1-h-mo73zTJzk7B_zS89ohwyZe1ZhJ-c2BOfQghBez-Bvyz0rs5zWOWqt6Y-84Fh-aiUMR-eq5O9L-jEJBkH9t0oD7Ckkha8NUgG01/s1600/IMG_5996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGWU83-y29Ngs3zvGg20cmGkRKcQqPYO1-h-mo73zTJzk7B_zS89ohwyZe1ZhJ-c2BOfQghBez-Bvyz0rs5zWOWqt6Y-84Fh-aiUMR-eq5O9L-jEJBkH9t0oD7Ckkha8NUgG01/s320/IMG_5996.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buddy's Henna tatt for LoloFe. <3</td></tr>
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And now, almost 6 weeks later, I seem to feel more like myself again. Less like a walking baby-buggy or a post-op zombie. And the blog has started calling me again. The pictures are sadly going to be phone quality, which means you'll just have to deal with the less glorious resolution. But they're here, right? That's what matters, right? RIGHT?<br />
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The sewing, admittedly, is a little quieter with the calls right now. Though that may be because Lo is quite keen on being attached to her Mama AALLL DAY. Which, I don't generally mind. More napping and cuddling time for me. :) But it also means I'm up at 12:30 only because I didn't get dinner at dinner time. Because I was feeding some beautiful little monkey-girl.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFJYZ44ONxfCrFufzDCs3nv-qeea-fGI9pNFEi2HXhRWsXf9ODI3C-JYYl1yz4VEJbY_BDJl2nyMNe2cfuPI17Ts6JQmReAlISv8kqNP24iRm3INOm7vW9wcsn_64YNOuqKJL/s1600/IMG_6230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFJYZ44ONxfCrFufzDCs3nv-qeea-fGI9pNFEi2HXhRWsXf9ODI3C-JYYl1yz4VEJbY_BDJl2nyMNe2cfuPI17Ts6JQmReAlISv8kqNP24iRm3INOm7vW9wcsn_64YNOuqKJL/s640/IMG_6230.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sock Monkey, Klint, courtesy of <a href="http://sockmonkeydrawer.com/">Sock Monkey Drawer</a></td></tr>
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But--Hello, again! I've missed you!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-90353227109593206672012-06-09T09:46:00.000-05:002012-06-09T09:46:03.707-05:00Memorial Day Weekend Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmdk6ox-fZ_99VfdctGMK1gu8haPSbIfWQT541-VLLKMUM0_YtHOL3Xi6rcjD4kSV6PdpGo_6wEya8sSyOhoHbTF_cudVKrPycmoPjEesvcN_FtoSJSrej-s_Sa9ktBXQ1qF3/s1600/beads1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmdk6ox-fZ_99VfdctGMK1gu8haPSbIfWQT541-VLLKMUM0_YtHOL3Xi6rcjD4kSV6PdpGo_6wEya8sSyOhoHbTF_cudVKrPycmoPjEesvcN_FtoSJSrej-s_Sa9ktBXQ1qF3/s1600/beads1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Okay, so the "name" of this dress is not entirely accurate. I didn't <i>wear</i> this dress Memorial Day Weekend, and I didn't even <i>finish</i> this dress Memorial Day Weekend. However, I got the fabric I used for this dress <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2011/05/crafty-brunch.html">last year</a> during Memorial Day weekend and completed the majority of its construction this Memorial Day weekend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSE3hNX0n5a8mJ0O0EZStHwKNXjsE0nkRQzwfYMa3tKe0G7AimHppwc0fTEcBL9WiqJegilq75Vn1S4LMBJ9SoEgB-FlgTforLhZUZpXw4NFEd1mSZUlrIqNebGPr1goQGIgkc/s1600/IMG_0204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSE3hNX0n5a8mJ0O0EZStHwKNXjsE0nkRQzwfYMa3tKe0G7AimHppwc0fTEcBL9WiqJegilq75Vn1S4LMBJ9SoEgB-FlgTforLhZUZpXw4NFEd1mSZUlrIqNebGPr1goQGIgkc/s640/IMG_0204.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2011/05/crafty-brunch.html">My birthday spoils from last year</a></td></tr>
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So there you go.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nDAWaPXM5rU4XK7lzfteOW-nucifGltj93KsjGlkBB-hgIyTnXfr5lrBkjZzPVpgr8Xj63FYUSdPefkUMHkziPfw50uDh8CtDCtUK2od35eRly-dKgzyJgVgDfeAyinJZ-WK/s1600/fullview1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nDAWaPXM5rU4XK7lzfteOW-nucifGltj93KsjGlkBB-hgIyTnXfr5lrBkjZzPVpgr8Xj63FYUSdPefkUMHkziPfw50uDh8CtDCtUK2od35eRly-dKgzyJgVgDfeAyinJZ-WK/s1600/fullview1.jpg" /></a></div>
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General details about it's construction:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100628235434/vintagepatterns/images/thumb/e/e5/S7011A.jpg/300px-S7011A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100628235434/vintagepatterns/images/thumb/e/e5/S7011A.jpg/300px-S7011A.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Vintage Sewing Wiki</td></tr>
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<b>Pattern</b>: Simplicity 7011, circa 1975, purchased on Etsy<br />
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<b>Fabric</b>: Synthetic border print, which I then hacked apart and reconstructed to make use of the different prints on it. I could have probably just used two different fabrics all together.<br />
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<b>Changes made</b>: The pattern is really simple: four pieces to cut for the dress, and then little tabs and facing to cut. I ended up cutting the dress pieces into different sections to help me place the border prints at the places I wanted. I also added a strange little pleat to the front pieces to add extra belly fabric. It wasn't the prettiest alteration, but the gathers/elastic end up hiding it well enough. Not to mention the print. I skipped the tabs, because they felt a little like overkill with this print.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtDZX2yfHjw-sp_BhxSLVnU8Fu44iefBnvjq9H4GxRQQWsZ9fmeMd8jh7Eix1LneKrpNIayGX-CklNULWvh8hk0OnEiuE6YvImhyphenhyphenLtwkSllkxUsORZNkBST3NWojufsWmUBaP/s1600/flatfell1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxtDZX2yfHjw-sp_BhxSLVnU8Fu44iefBnvjq9H4GxRQQWsZ9fmeMd8jh7Eix1LneKrpNIayGX-CklNULWvh8hk0OnEiuE6YvImhyphenhyphenLtwkSllkxUsORZNkBST3NWojufsWmUBaP/s1600/flatfell1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used flat-felled seams with the border print transplants. <br />If you look right under the beads, you'll see where I had added the extra pleat, too.</td></tr>
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I also added the border print portion to the hem as a separate piece. It cut down on the need to hand-sew, and tied up the dress pretty well. In retrospect, I'm not sure it mattered too greatly either way. It's a little longer than I had planned, but it's a little neater on the bottom, overall. (Just ignore my horrid finishing stitches and poor matchup of seams. Leave it to Buddy to take detail pics of the parts I'm least happy with.)<br />
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<b>Overall Impression</b>: The fabric is very light and totally appropriate for a summery dress, so I am happy to have finally put it to good use. The construction of the dress is interesting--shaping relies mainly on the use of elastic at the shoulders and bodice. I would totally make this dress again, a little shorter and with some simpler print just because I think it would have such a vastly different effect. And if you take out all the frankensteining I did with the fabric, the construction would be even simpler. I would even venture to say I'd finish the sleeves with bias binding because it would work well for seam finishes <i>and</i> a nice detail on the outside. I just need to buy LOTS of bias binding for that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPc5wpnBfoc6OkTFYgjz-3WUHBYlMere8pS8YKL-n73o-1lrg0hKQTH6fJoF0MNjabid49OchTmrSZyLT0fYgfbWQ_2fiICHEX3H7IL1sCQPllt2qdN3vDFa_TgKyfMwwV5AHj/s1600/backdress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPc5wpnBfoc6OkTFYgjz-3WUHBYlMere8pS8YKL-n73o-1lrg0hKQTH6fJoF0MNjabid49OchTmrSZyLT0fYgfbWQ_2fiICHEX3H7IL1sCQPllt2qdN3vDFa_TgKyfMwwV5AHj/s1600/backdress.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excuse the wrinkles (skin and dress) from the long drive in the car.</td></tr>
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This dress fits the vintage, alterations, and dress categories for the Sew, Baby! challenge, too, I think. :D<br />
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And as full acknowledgement, I really am working on some sewing here and there. And I still need to post on Me-Made-May conclusions. Sorry! You'll see more soon, I hope! Third trimester starts Sunday, so I am now realizing how little I've accomplished and how much I have to do to prepare for major life change!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-12903478911299189982012-05-22T18:59:00.001-05:002012-05-22T19:13:24.946-05:00Baby Shower AftermathAs stated in one of my last posts (however briefly), life has been quite hectic in recent weeks. This seems to be a seasonal thing, as May is just wacky-packed full of family things. Which means a couple of things: I drop off the face of the blogging planet for a bit, and I get sick. :P<br />
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However, somewhere in the past two weeks, the baby shower I was talking up and preparing for with the use of Moon Munkie's goodies, finally came to pass. It was a pretty nice shower, I don't mind saying. Big, and full of people who adore my adorable sister-in-law.<br />
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Here's a visual review of some of the goodies that my family and I were able to pull together. My sister was in charge of the desserts, and my mom, cousins, and younger sister all helped me get all of my designated decoration projects done. I admittedly chose projects that would have better served a smaller shower (we made 80 favors and 80 pins, though I don't know that we needed to). Silly me. Fortunately, crafty hands run in the family and they all saved me from falling into a crafty wormhole of despair.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdRZHt9ruhADECASkgkiGQfD_4tuGu9K4JSp4NuoNUVt5XTLsXEx1yWgH2J97GVCY43O1Lec5Qrue8nxTUOSdYOXA5i8BAErGjBfFYtU63cPEzciGhEie0PV7jJ5AlSmibYxT/s1600/cake1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqdRZHt9ruhADECASkgkiGQfD_4tuGu9K4JSp4NuoNUVt5XTLsXEx1yWgH2J97GVCY43O1Lec5Qrue8nxTUOSdYOXA5i8BAErGjBfFYtU63cPEzciGhEie0PV7jJ5AlSmibYxT/s1600/cake1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shower cake courtesy of the family's favorite local bakery</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulle instead of streamers. <br />
I made a point NOT to make these tissue pompoms, but I did hang them with Moon Munkie yarn. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5tc5kcYivOdNw6v_bKO-2jlYUR7NOTq78sJw86cJRkXHiIfLuBMAuekD5x8-euDaWtxgvOH9kfW-GVIlgRtaxebO6eMhGsLHueiHxerdi8P1T9JqKkMBlU8-usk1uccp8NCz/s1600/favors1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5tc5kcYivOdNw6v_bKO-2jlYUR7NOTq78sJw86cJRkXHiIfLuBMAuekD5x8-euDaWtxgvOH9kfW-GVIlgRtaxebO6eMhGsLHueiHxerdi8P1T9JqKkMBlU8-usk1uccp8NCz/s1600/favors1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini fruit tarts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9YLiACsvV_iXYjRCSUwO9unmxKu27X35oE5GIzcs_-JW-z9JfVqDNI1_Q3o6uprXUAOJE_W9R5l30aUWq958jGq-MFzbESQeIBgbAQp4L0Q8tGff9Pq-As6ZlPGdsjCc4a3hk/s1600/banner1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9YLiACsvV_iXYjRCSUwO9unmxKu27X35oE5GIzcs_-JW-z9JfVqDNI1_Q3o6uprXUAOJE_W9R5l30aUWq958jGq-MFzbESQeIBgbAQp4L0Q8tGff9Pq-As6ZlPGdsjCc4a3hk/s1600/banner1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new and improved ivy banner, with little Moon Munkie flower accents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9Cr8TNEYmiPPkByz_0-nWtFXegKkOwozgSeSoAML5qmSCbgxQT3XOCIs8MP_LX_g6fCwGwnQxvNUXYlnzt86ea3x70pNDcH4mEG1teHYnY7RKMQvhLbY3oWoPtmXjFvE4yo_/s1600/favors1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9Cr8TNEYmiPPkByz_0-nWtFXegKkOwozgSeSoAML5qmSCbgxQT3XOCIs8MP_LX_g6fCwGwnQxvNUXYlnzt86ea3x70pNDcH4mEG1teHYnY7RKMQvhLbY3oWoPtmXjFvE4yo_/s640/favors1.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The favor envelopes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAKBEaGHOPaq7Y8qA_DRsVS8d7ZStGiQrD7FeJ9KWUNo8tntkmjTd7X4hcWcsN5YzBfYRKgGrlAhuNaD0Xg2AQaTnpwUq0ape3FZG-PPkja6-PKVxdImuUSaZP8n8GyyI2qnC/s1600/favors21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAKBEaGHOPaq7Y8qA_DRsVS8d7ZStGiQrD7FeJ9KWUNo8tntkmjTd7X4hcWcsN5YzBfYRKgGrlAhuNaD0Xg2AQaTnpwUq0ape3FZG-PPkja6-PKVxdImuUSaZP8n8GyyI2qnC/s1600/favors21.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The envelope contents: seeds, quote, planting instructions</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKeZ1yRf3OwpKmvyc6AkqY34yM5cdZhWCZzS_hCsVURqNfOA5LP-HElrsiNi5pLpNeQXZanlB3CPKHU6_LWMqOQrX2inAS2OYKdF886LXpi01Rwy_sdexPeW0eu4VwGgtW5pQ/s1600/kkcups1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKeZ1yRf3OwpKmvyc6AkqY34yM5cdZhWCZzS_hCsVURqNfOA5LP-HElrsiNi5pLpNeQXZanlB3CPKHU6_LWMqOQrX2inAS2OYKdF886LXpi01Rwy_sdexPeW0eu4VwGgtW5pQ/s1600/kkcups1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family favorite: individual "Krispy Krespy" (Pistachio pudding, cream cheesy sweet stuff, whipped cream, and graham cracker crust. Not in that order.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYoX1ZoSqaWYuR50kP4pyzB71JGBL8yPd9i01ObCcxHkml0PDiDZXWgVaHXZc5EpLPsybjmCOsbiVz_Mdz00sYUMN2LR6WwPlKuCR8pVRfTAd-k8BS2gM0gX_MWFMrnJdFzw-/s1600/pins1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYoX1ZoSqaWYuR50kP4pyzB71JGBL8yPd9i01ObCcxHkml0PDiDZXWgVaHXZc5EpLPsybjmCOsbiVz_Mdz00sYUMN2LR6WwPlKuCR8pVRfTAd-k8BS2gM0gX_MWFMrnJdFzw-/s1600/pins1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetpea blossom pins from satin, tulle, and felt</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx6FPGBgIvBYseXdaPXdO9aiqN7vxCGwlGpG4Kw4uxOOUB_q-N3yevPF2bp9KlTXk0oiL_izhpaUnSTDIVdjxrVj5Tj1ysl8t861SAUdafXQFB7p3iqVG9eLhyphenhyphenOPYAUAVnqht/s1600/plant1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx6FPGBgIvBYseXdaPXdO9aiqN7vxCGwlGpG4Kw4uxOOUB_q-N3yevPF2bp9KlTXk0oiL_izhpaUnSTDIVdjxrVj5Tj1ysl8t861SAUdafXQFB7p3iqVG9eLhyphenhyphenOPYAUAVnqht/s640/plant1.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging flowers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrQOep2UgyhaJSBR1Dy3PuLABQv9qWFJHG2_guTyecknsTDp4886GJDX29ZjfbSXFXD1nKPU1ibnqMl0cxo8_pse2bvidG1Gzeq7_ehVMn46c-9GUEDhiG8KwE5SGmUwb-0xC/s1600/plant2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrQOep2UgyhaJSBR1Dy3PuLABQv9qWFJHG2_guTyecknsTDp4886GJDX29ZjfbSXFXD1nKPU1ibnqMl0cxo8_pse2bvidG1Gzeq7_ehVMn46c-9GUEDhiG8KwE5SGmUwb-0xC/s640/plant2.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Second hanging plant, used as prizes for the shower games</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV7UG6_CYqXBTVZN5HRRMtp6aRfG1ugUN_MQT8ZqxeOOSJY2W4PpvaYpPzTtnkMZhHlSsIMsJ5QI7g-vN_hVgjaUVO-2nRK8HDHKUd4nkvU795eiqDU2n7PpP8Rfur2MAgyG6/s1600/pretzelcups1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAV7UG6_CYqXBTVZN5HRRMtp6aRfG1ugUN_MQT8ZqxeOOSJY2W4PpvaYpPzTtnkMZhHlSsIMsJ5QI7g-vN_hVgjaUVO-2nRK8HDHKUd4nkvU795eiqDU2n7PpP8Rfur2MAgyG6/s1600/pretzelcups1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Individual pretzel salads</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dessert table; my brother, his wife, and they're pre-packaged bundle of joy. ;)</td></tr>
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Ooops! Almost forgot to include my present for the wee 'un. Probably because I didn't take a decent picture of it, so tried to brush over it.<br />
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I made a quilt for my niece using my friend Eleanor Grosch's fabric that I <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2011/12/spoils-of-giveaway.html">mentioned</a> ages ago:<br />
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I had thought I had gotten some better quality shots when my husband snuck a few in, but he deleted them because they weren't as good as I had thought. And with the rush to get the shower stuff and quilt done, I was just glad I could give it to her. :)seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-3330807601058279602012-05-22T08:12:00.000-05:002012-05-22T19:13:53.237-05:00Me-Made-May '12, weeks 1 & 2<div style="text-align: center;">
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I had hoped to be all fancy and make a nice little photoshopped summary of my wears for Me-Made-May before posting them on here. But my brain doesn't seem to want to cooperate on this. Or I'm just plain lazy.</div>
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So, I post them in little pictures for folks to see in a row. Many of these pieces you've seen posted on here before. There are a couple of refashions (leg warmers and arm warmers from socks, t-shirt yoga pants, a hemmed dress) that I have not posted on, but they are not difficult projects with any interesting stories to accompany them.<br />
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<b>Week 1:</b><br />
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<b>Week 2: </b></div>
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I know I should provide better explanations for each of these pieces, but wrestling with these little thumbnails has taken the wind outta my sales.<br />
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Week 3 is far less interesting. I'll post on that in a couple of weeks, to tie up the month with weeks 4 and 4.5. I'm hoping to get a couple new pieces made before then, because I've already hit the repeat stage since some of my other projects are just not bump-friendly. It's fun wearing all of my clothes I've made, but I do enjoy some variety.<br />
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<br /></div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-83345969017136150242012-05-17T11:07:00.003-05:002012-05-17T11:10:12.091-05:00T-shirt Dress, Re-done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Remember in March, when I<a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/03/once-upon-this-march-or-former-st.html"> wanted to make a dress </a>out of these t-shirts? (Apologies again for the poor quality of the pic, but you get the idea.)<br />
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I tried to self-draft a dress, which didn't work out well. And what I thought would work for the use of the green really just didn't want to come together either. So, I made a cute green stripy <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/03/once-upon-this-march-or-former-st.html">skirt</a> instead, and threw these cut up tees into my pile of UFOs.<br />
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I had intended on wearing the dress out of these tees to my Buddy's work party, since they were from last year's party. When St Paddy's Day came and went, the work party actually was postponed for various reasons to this May. So, putting off the dress wasn't a complete loss of plans: I had a couple of months to get something together.<br />
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This is what I came up with, using the free <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/one-shoulder-knit-dress">One Shoulder Knit Dress</a> pattern off of <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/">Burdastyle</a> (thank you <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/profiles/dixiediy/my_activity">dixiediy</a>!). Super comfy and not reliant on making sense of the print on the massacred tees.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece is damn cute.</td></tr>
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The top was an interesting lesson in piecing, without a dress form mind you. I tried to use as much of the scraps as I had, so there are some awkward places where lines didn't come together the way I had intended. In the future, I'd likely make two separate blocks of pieced fabric to cut in opposing directions to do a more effective chevron effect. I was a little too limited on available fabric to do it with the way the tees were already cut from my last attempt.<br />
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However, the dress is SUPER comfy (did I mention that earlier?) and wears well. I added a little pleat to the front for more belly space, but I'm not sure it was really effective. It certainly is off-center, so I just get distracted by that every time I wear it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUh0VGH9BGNF-H74Na8_ltM1cScc_fz7ZCOAB5_GVRqDZMcS8_AuqCoghyQh3ze3RI2rctwOZnTAABVgaoxH9txELGMpicHANl7djRvUPLng-4uCWSTlVxsCxtBjXdp8jgnAc/s1600/top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUh0VGH9BGNF-H74Na8_ltM1cScc_fz7ZCOAB5_GVRqDZMcS8_AuqCoghyQh3ze3RI2rctwOZnTAABVgaoxH9txELGMpicHANl7djRvUPLng-4uCWSTlVxsCxtBjXdp8jgnAc/s1600/top.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">detail on the top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sorry the pics are not formal, but life has been crazy of late. Setting up some photo shoot just isn't feasible these days. Fortunately, life is crazy with family gatherings, so this increases the chances that I get pictures like this to share. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2pk-QfVzcBNELGlZK9VscGBCBpbjtEfmMtkHfLiP3G1Umhxavb2BLXDahz61gkzviB4F2o7duk4AE-v9AOXcEXaawRWvxNaqcGZCBxIP0VlZLCoEm3T3-cmQYk2_kPBO8YGP/s320/Maternity+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2pk-QfVzcBNELGlZK9VscGBCBpbjtEfmMtkHfLiP3G1Umhxavb2BLXDahz61gkzviB4F2o7duk4AE-v9AOXcEXaawRWvxNaqcGZCBxIP0VlZLCoEm3T3-cmQYk2_kPBO8YGP/s320/Maternity+skirt.jpg" /></a></div>
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And this maternity dress counts for the refashioned/altered pattern category and dress category for my Sew, Baby! Challenge. Yay!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-37084608852415236122012-05-04T11:49:00.000-05:002012-05-04T11:49:01.318-05:00Pay It Forward 2012So, I'm a sucker for participating in things, I think. Marie at A Sewing Odyssey noted that she is participating in the Pay It Forward fun for 2012, and I thought I would also join in. Though I wasn't one of her first three commenters, she kindly has offered to make me something anyway, so I will return the sentiment and offer you lovely readers the same option!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTE_UC8tI3mMDm_d1rA5FsBCLaGl5hGjiSWc6VdzMqa27G9C4ActVI422dEzrcPYtiasxFuIHxoljHgTpV0hcfxgRUP7y3DwTM-ooj4-6QKC-Q1OmJe-2iDf-bKUycyv7f8-P/s1600/Payitforward+handmade-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOTE_UC8tI3mMDm_d1rA5FsBCLaGl5hGjiSWc6VdzMqa27G9C4ActVI422dEzrcPYtiasxFuIHxoljHgTpV0hcfxgRUP7y3DwTM-ooj4-6QKC-Q1OmJe-2iDf-bKUycyv7f8-P/s1600/Payitforward+handmade-logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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I make no promises that I will get it done in the next four months, pre-baby, but I'll do my darndest. In the meantime, I have the whole year. ;) I actually do have a gift I have to make for someone from over a year ago on another similar agreement, but I'll be good this year, I promise.<br />
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To review the logistics of pay it forward:<br />
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<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I will send a surprise gift to the <b>first three commenters</b> on this post - the gift will be a handmade surprise by me and I will send it to you sometime in the <b>next 365 days</b>. All you need to do is:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
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<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
Leave me a comment telling me your favourite colours (or the colours you hate) and/or your favorite animal to help me make you a gift you'll hopefully love! Please don’t forget to include your email address so I can get in touch.</div>
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<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
Mind you, if you are one of these three commenters, you must play along too by blogging a similar post and pledging to make a surprise for the first three people who comment on it.</div>
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Are you up for it?</div>
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<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
Also, as a side note, I have decided to post my Me-Made-May-2012 outfits via my Instagram account (which will also feed Flickr, so they'll go to the Flickr pool for MMM12 too), if you want to follow me. You can find me under sneakfuzz. And don't worry, if you don't want to follow or don't have Instagram, I intend on doing weekly reviews.</div>
<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
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<div style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">
Cheers!</div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-37914568301916233272012-05-02T02:00:00.000-05:002012-05-02T02:00:11.138-05:00Bambi Shirt, Deconstructed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbdI6fWJRUdtAn5Dvq-90mBgAKtVO04InPyIwcO8xdA-1zWYqRR1UllSws0Q7ppATWIpgWFbfQ5jlNBz7bKgGEop6n8jfvuiJh75ypBVnKuziQQW6bDg_ixHMh6IFoPXQNRSp/s1600/Ians.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbdI6fWJRUdtAn5Dvq-90mBgAKtVO04InPyIwcO8xdA-1zWYqRR1UllSws0Q7ppATWIpgWFbfQ5jlNBz7bKgGEop6n8jfvuiJh75ypBVnKuziQQW6bDg_ixHMh6IFoPXQNRSp/s1600/Ians.jpg" /></a></div>
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In entering into my second trimester and rediscovering this thing that folks call "energy" and this other thing called "motivation", I must admit that the high levels of what I perceive to be energy and motivation may just me being a little psychotically over-ambitious.<br />
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I'm not sure. But I think that might be what's actually going on here.<br />
<br />
All I know is that I come home frantically thinking about all the sewing I should be getting done, trying to plow through, only to lose myself in the deadline instead of the process of sewing.<br />
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I haven't really spoken on Charlotte's concept for Mindful Sewing, but let me just say that it's a concept I aspire to endlessly. Just not accomplishing it very well. Instead, I want to sew like a freight train wants to arrive at its destination.<br />
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Such is what happened with my Bambi shirt, which, I suppose I thankfully could not immediately share due to technical difficulties after completing it. It forced me to slow down a little bit.<br />
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As stated earlier, I made the shirt for the Sew Weekly challenge based on a picture of me as a child. I wanted to use a picture of me at the age of five wearing a tiiiiiny little Bambi t-shirt. In my mind, it was my muscle shirt, and it was my favorite. I never felt tougher than when I wore my Bambi shirt. I could have sworn that I had a copy of the picture I had in mind a week or so ago, but I was to find I was wrong.<br />
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<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6988157368_8199d446cd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6988157368_8199d446cd.jpg" /></a></div>
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I had to take a quick phone pic at my mom's house yesterday so I could post this.<br />
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Anyhow, I'm going to do a quick and dirty review of the deets on the pattern and a confession of my issues with this project:<br />
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<b>Details:</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.wikia.com/vintagepatterns/images/3/3b/S9333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.wikia.com/vintagepatterns/images/3/3b/S9333.jpg" width="127" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://cationdesigns.blogspot.com/">Cation Designs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Pattern: Simplicity 9333, won in a <a href="http://fashionsfromthepast.blogspot.com/2012/02/sew-grateful-week-last-round-up-post.html">Sew Grateful</a> giveaway on <a href="http://cationdesigns.blogspot.com/2012/02/sew-grateful-week-giveaway.html">Cation Designs</a>. Altered via a tutorial to make it "maternity" that I can't seem to find now, and resized to be 34" bust instead of 36". Alterations include expanding the waist measurement by 2" on each side, lengthening the front, and adding ribbons in a lace casing to provide the ability to gather the sides or let them out.<br />
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Fabric: super soft and bouncy remnant jersey, $7/ yard? (Everything is $7 to me if I can't remember. It's been in my stash for a while).<br />
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Notions: stretch lace and a blue button, courtesy of <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/">Kat's</a> <a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/">Moon Munkie Mystery Make</a> package. Grosgrain ribbon. Acrylic paint<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKg5CQd7BSy6-_XoN0Fp5WvvUgdTaL97LJ8dZIMjOrfnToaQiMpBmjTjYnr5XbWe9NB6L3c5F-_tyvf5SX5-i7PWpDPN0itCBJX70ijGk2o5q72GirSlmtYNflSaoyp40C-4a/s1600/sidepulls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKg5CQd7BSy6-_XoN0Fp5WvvUgdTaL97LJ8dZIMjOrfnToaQiMpBmjTjYnr5XbWe9NB6L3c5F-_tyvf5SX5-i7PWpDPN0itCBJX70ijGk2o5q72GirSlmtYNflSaoyp40C-4a/s1600/sidepulls.jpg" /></a></div>
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Additional: In order to make the shirt Bambi related, besides the tight fit (in some places), I added a print of a fawn silhouette. I admit I am pretty proud of drawing that little fawn myself. The butterfly came later.<br />
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<b>Issues: </b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
1. PRIMARY ISSUE: I didn't do a muslin/toile.<br />
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2. I used a jersey that simply was not in existence in the 70s, which means it behaved in ways that just didn't suit the cut of the pattern.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLS4otjQ3bwyWLVT7hXq_JxWKudpX14g0inQjBe8luPSdM-eqKk730t5lKyT0JoTA0abhBJC1WoJQg3oAysRuDIhre1eTkOz65WSq6r2uhiAmkqlM9JffvgPBHFFVWC5TmV0L/s1600/sleevetugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLS4otjQ3bwyWLVT7hXq_JxWKudpX14g0inQjBe8luPSdM-eqKk730t5lKyT0JoTA0abhBJC1WoJQg3oAysRuDIhre1eTkOz65WSq6r2uhiAmkqlM9JffvgPBHFFVWC5TmV0L/s1600/sleevetugs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puffy sleeves, and weird neck pull.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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3. Even after taking about 2 inches of ease out of these sleeves, they're still too puffy for my tastes.<br />
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4. The back was too droopy on me (see #2), and the zipper was totally inappropriate and wonked out the shape of the back (see pics).<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kzhGaFBtG_ImRV_gCR1cw-HSXtzeUotGpWIUi7CWUIKqft9MNc2_VCMeHCZkuCbTRBNtlGSjIzHUc5TzIwByx6RCZsoXegg4W-KoXrovlpeD8OFpyALXIC6UyBZaBQEXkVAa/s1600/zipside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kzhGaFBtG_ImRV_gCR1cw-HSXtzeUotGpWIUi7CWUIKqft9MNc2_VCMeHCZkuCbTRBNtlGSjIzHUc5TzIwByx6RCZsoXegg4W-KoXrovlpeD8OFpyALXIC6UyBZaBQEXkVAa/s400/zipside.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zipper totally bowing out the back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd5TUMrdwWk9wFzIzKJnWmN-x6TPs_tWaSMpdyQbnsu43mlJfCS3LyNxVOYBJRCVglghsZ2RtXVoCEuzwVGnsMcVvXGR9xEMiqiS3LKoxjYb4YUzmMsjGDWDhifzAh5grPR-R/s1600/zip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd5TUMrdwWk9wFzIzKJnWmN-x6TPs_tWaSMpdyQbnsu43mlJfCS3LyNxVOYBJRCVglghsZ2RtXVoCEuzwVGnsMcVvXGR9xEMiqiS3LKoxjYb4YUzmMsjGDWDhifzAh5grPR-R/s1600/zip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXd5TUMrdwWk9wFzIzKJnWmN-x6TPs_tWaSMpdyQbnsu43mlJfCS3LyNxVOYBJRCVglghsZ2RtXVoCEuzwVGnsMcVvXGR9xEMiqiS3LKoxjYb4YUzmMsjGDWDhifzAh5grPR-R/s400/zip.jpg" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excess fabric, wavy zipper, just not working.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsglJRVtD5FPWz8cChp6Ip6b4oGfVuruZE6Ymh0vwm-2pchFxmiegO53sk_qv3VSi9cUTYY_YJRY9P56S7h4jY2tQjOgIwLG1WIPVMaFKCwrek_uWTPwCnlsCg3YgK_asFJKR/s1600/backnew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsglJRVtD5FPWz8cChp6Ip6b4oGfVuruZE6Ymh0vwm-2pchFxmiegO53sk_qv3VSi9cUTYY_YJRY9P56S7h4jY2tQjOgIwLG1WIPVMaFKCwrek_uWTPwCnlsCg3YgK_asFJKR/s400/backnew.jpg" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back, taken in. Button and eye/hook added to top later. Better, but I still feel like there's a mild case of scoliosis.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
5. The alterations to make the shirt "maternity" spoiled some of the things I liked about the 70s design and any resemblance I originally saw in the pattern for my childhood shirt. I am hoping that the massive amounts of fabric will come in handy later, though.<br />
<br />
6. The jersey is quite synthetic, and couldn't handle high temps from the iron, so my original plan to use a freezer paper stencil for the fawn was second guessed. I wasn't sure the freezer paper would stick at the fabric appropriate temp. So I used plain looseleaf, a roller for the acrylic paint, and totally slopped up the process.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6VUwwmGCP0_CyxCZA-8hoSOrL8WVr9Gn3rwCqlbC0TMYgJaShYG1QGoCt56tAFtkcGFdM2gmfjV1J4ymn2nK81DlhaVpxPxjRG8_W_YZ3kv-9i59nJeMvzLGmlI3-8Jr_w0m/s1600/bambidetail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6VUwwmGCP0_CyxCZA-8hoSOrL8WVr9Gn3rwCqlbC0TMYgJaShYG1QGoCt56tAFtkcGFdM2gmfjV1J4ymn2nK81DlhaVpxPxjRG8_W_YZ3kv-9i59nJeMvzLGmlI3-8Jr_w0m/s1600/bambidetail.jpg" /></a>7. The jersey was "hairier" than I anticipated, so the edges are muddled on the fawn.<br />
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8. I got paint on the shirt where I didn't want it. So I made it a butterfly.<br />
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9. In trying to add the lace casings for the ribbon, I overlooked the tension change, leaving me with some sloppy seams. I was too tired and crazed to care to change it at that point.<br />
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<b>Conclusion:</b><br />
<b><br /></b><br />
Okay, so that wasn't very quick. But it was pretty dirty, right? I mean...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFw0baeJCwPxjo1gi5e0D0wEuafQGqQu2M_3Jrc8FfuRYGTsleI79TMV4YNbv5etUw7NCGqP_JD5mkQx61uqEnzBHS0nOvwBVYLIKyHaLSS8U-ocZMTtWBGoCFeVNRCuKC_6W/s1600/scrunchside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLFw0baeJCwPxjo1gi5e0D0wEuafQGqQu2M_3Jrc8FfuRYGTsleI79TMV4YNbv5etUw7NCGqP_JD5mkQx61uqEnzBHS0nOvwBVYLIKyHaLSS8U-ocZMTtWBGoCFeVNRCuKC_6W/s1600/scrunchside.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ruched" sides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, I really do like this shirt, overall. Even with my gripes. I am a little scared to wash it with the acrylic print, though. I did heat set it, but we're back to issue #6. The fabric is super comfy, and it does offer plenty of room to grow. I'm proud of my little fawn, and hope to do it justice at a later date on another project. My main lesson in this project though is the idea that I need to slow down. Deadlines are generally arbitrary and never ultimately important. A good lesson to keep in mind when my due date approaches. ;)<br />
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I think this project counts as a Sew, Baby! entry for separates, altering patterns, and vintage, don't you?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2pk-QfVzcBNELGlZK9VscGBCBpbjtEfmMtkHfLiP3G1Umhxavb2BLXDahz61gkzviB4F2o7duk4AE-v9AOXcEXaawRWvxNaqcGZCBxIP0VlZLCoEm3T3-cmQYk2_kPBO8YGP/s320/Maternity+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_2pk-QfVzcBNELGlZK9VscGBCBpbjtEfmMtkHfLiP3G1Umhxavb2BLXDahz61gkzviB4F2o7duk4AE-v9AOXcEXaawRWvxNaqcGZCBxIP0VlZLCoEm3T3-cmQYk2_kPBO8YGP/s320/Maternity+skirt.jpg" /></a></div>
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</div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-45797808755745470872012-04-30T02:00:00.000-05:002012-04-30T02:00:10.527-05:00Me-Made-May 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfuFnjh4aDaUi3dAU2EAh9jxoGkMcl1KN_aZ3BqwuVsQa65r8NfMt4A8NXQus1kHPqEknE4z1S9-Gg7NDWK-FjBhco33w0_8vT96vUdU_kEpnKvZaA4Aed3ZflEol6Tm0wp2K/s400/mmm12logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAfuFnjh4aDaUi3dAU2EAh9jxoGkMcl1KN_aZ3BqwuVsQa65r8NfMt4A8NXQus1kHPqEknE4z1S9-Gg7NDWK-FjBhco33w0_8vT96vUdU_kEpnKvZaA4Aed3ZflEol6Tm0wp2K/s320/mmm12logo.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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So, I'm taking the pledge! Yay! This is my first Me-Made/Self-Stitched event ever, so I'm actually quite excited to join the ranks. :D<br />
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I am fully aware that I've (truthfully) painted May to be quite the hectic month for me. With this crazy schedule, my limited wearable me-made maternity wardrobe, and my general n00bness to the me-made forum, I am going to tread lightly. If I can pull off three or more days a week, I will, but I can certainly and safely commit to wearing at least eight items made by me this month.<br />
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As soon as I've done my laundry.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><strong><em>'I, Seeks of <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/">The Seek Speak</a>, sign up as a participant of Me-Made-May '12. I endeavour to wear at least two me-made or me-refashioned piece of clothing or accessory per week for the duration of May 2012. I also commit to using my stash before purchasing any goods for projects. When necessary, all efforts will be made to purchase needed goods in the most economically and environmentally responsible manner possible.'</em></strong></span><br />
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Looking forward to joining the masses of adventuresome sewists out there this May!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-50304524593306415502012-04-29T21:53:00.001-05:002012-04-29T21:53:31.265-05:00Sewn Arts Sunday: Taxidermy, and a Bridge<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUaflZAYpa7j70LPGnT5qqvaa2FRM4LydNNMt3S57oWOvj_X5drQXEtVSI3wiBuKQcfLgHkj1goqaNJNDsmVPSmYliJEoTAdDqMoZtptm8EJhy194lj4yYWZlq8Rh3Vnlpr1m0/s1600/383805_10150379844470840_633995839_8869837_1989467064_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUaflZAYpa7j70LPGnT5qqvaa2FRM4LydNNMt3S57oWOvj_X5drQXEtVSI3wiBuKQcfLgHkj1goqaNJNDsmVPSmYliJEoTAdDqMoZtptm8EJhy194lj4yYWZlq8Rh3Vnlpr1m0/s640/383805_10150379844470840_633995839_8869837_1989467064_n.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://morbidanatomy.blogspot.com/2011/12/secret-science-club-6th-annual.html">Morbid Anatomy</a></td></tr>
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As weird as it may sound to some, I totally consider taxidermy a sewn art. Among other things, as I know that there are plenty of other aspects to the work as well. I just <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2012/04/the_morbid_anatomy_art_academy.html">heard</a> of the <a href="http://morbidanatomy.blogspot.com/">Morbid Anatomy</a> classes on <a href="http://observatoryroom.org/2012/02/16/anthropomorphic-mouse-taxidermy-class-with-susan-jeiven-back-by-popular-demand-3/">Anthropomorphic Taxidermy</a>, and am quite smitten by the idea. Not enough to enroll, but still smitten.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/k6lIys1caRw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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(And don't worry, they're ethically obtained animals.)<br />
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If taxidermy is too much, perhaps you'd prefer a <a href="http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/2010/10/electrified-fox-lamp-tutorial-and.html">fox lamp</a>?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZi3O76oN44ul-JA7E-E2EFelrwEljxNgTQw8_3DPEIyp3Z2-np6vcxMofjDf1jsGk9AY4CUJ7VrnHHIb2Log9L-GXTY6pWZiDW_7_9xpwEubeRnhJ67_dQ8QUsBzTrQZbSOd3QA/s320/foxlightoff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZi3O76oN44ul-JA7E-E2EFelrwEljxNgTQw8_3DPEIyp3Z2-np6vcxMofjDf1jsGk9AY4CUJ7VrnHHIb2Log9L-GXTY6pWZiDW_7_9xpwEubeRnhJ67_dQ8QUsBzTrQZbSOd3QA/s640/foxlightoff.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/">Matsutake</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/">Matsutake</a> offers a <a href="http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/2010/10/electrified-fox-lamp-tutorial-and.html">tutorial</a> and free fox <a href="http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/p/free.html">pattern</a>.<br />
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Or, you could enjoy Mellisea's little hot dog:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrxstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/weenie___a_little_hot_dog_by_mellisea-d4kh009-480x360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mrxstitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/weenie___a_little_hot_dog_by_mellisea-d4kh009-480x360.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.mrxstitch.com/2012/04/12/stitchgasm-melisseas-weenie-dog/weenie___a_little_hot_dog_by_mellisea-d4kh009/">MrXStitch</a></td></tr>
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Or you could just go for something completely different:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/stitched%20bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="http://blog.craftzine.com/stitched%20bridge.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2012/04/3d_stitched_bridge.html">Craftzine</a></td></tr>
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I'm not sure how you do needlepoint lace, but <a href="http://www.doriemillerson.com/">Dorie Millerson</a> does it with amazing skill and ambition. I love this bridge! She also has other fun <a href="http://www.doriemillerson.com/Portfolio.aspx">works</a>, including a streetcar and vintage-inspired scenes between people.seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-13250354173452860872012-04-29T18:40:00.001-05:002012-04-29T18:40:07.986-05:00First Person to Fall Asleep at the Party<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUCJxpJ-hkCVeEHkr154-MfyfzMsIxloNwmPDGzFtqQviPiYBB-Rs-avAb3YN4byWcZ6dqs5NZMzw4zrKzBy6eVeJWWByBI0SIrU8j7K-nMTwJmnOV7gcjMw6qMIecKuCeD3t/s1600/bellyview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUCJxpJ-hkCVeEHkr154-MfyfzMsIxloNwmPDGzFtqQviPiYBB-Rs-avAb3YN4byWcZ6dqs5NZMzw4zrKzBy6eVeJWWByBI0SIrU8j7K-nMTwJmnOV7gcjMw6qMIecKuCeD3t/s1600/bellyview.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rearing to go party hardy... with a good book?</td></tr>
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All <i>week</i> I've been looking forward to the <a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/pyjama-party-sewalong/">Pyjama Party</a> hosted by Karen, at <a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/">Did You Make That? </a>Work was crazy cramped and stressful, my body was tired, and I had <i>nothing else planned</i> for this weekend! (See previous <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/04/still-here.html">post</a> to understand how rare and aMAZing that is.)<br />
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It was only by Saturday morning, as I was doing work at the yoga studio, that it dawned on me that SATURDAY, not <i>Sunday</i> was the pyjama party. And I had nothing to wear. Well, nothing pajama like that I had made yet, at least. And it took me only a little while longer to realize that I needed a nap.<br />
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Yesterday consisted of a lot. of. sleep. And a mind that wouldn't stop thinking about sewing. It's a painful mix, folks. I had a dream last night that I cut before adjusting the pattern. I think it had something to do with these PJs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJiCFjfmjAPMZMwevBfzm0aRbdzU6r1D7CXKLICy0gKBmFwEer_X_2NuTvuT-xIJl8s_xAw2wcmrxcvipJZs0XeB-EcI54YwIkw082mYRSreuNYo4eEOdevbTCSRxTZkflZuA/s1600/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJiCFjfmjAPMZMwevBfzm0aRbdzU6r1D7CXKLICy0gKBmFwEer_X_2NuTvuT-xIJl8s_xAw2wcmrxcvipJZs0XeB-EcI54YwIkw082mYRSreuNYo4eEOdevbTCSRxTZkflZuA/s1600/front.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sooo... where is everyone? The party is today (Sunday), right?</td></tr>
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It wasn't until the tail end of the day (as in midnight-ish?) that I got some sense of focus and energy yesterday. Good timing right? But at least I was ready to start on my PJs, right before bedtime.<br />
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I used a vintage cotton fabric I got in a barter. I say it's vintage because of the design, and because the selvage was much smaller than what one gets these days. I actually had to add some extra fabric to the inner leg/crotch portion of the back legs, because the selvage was so narrow. In truth, though, I'm not really sure about it's true age.<br />
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The pattern I used was the lovely little pj pattern that <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/">Kat</a> sent me for the <a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/">Moon Munkie Mystery Make</a>, as I'd mentioned <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/04/moon-munkie-giveaway-catching-up.html">before</a>: New Look 6924. I didn't want pants, so I shortened the length. I didn't, however, actually pay attention to the length between top and crotch. Dangit!<br />
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Folks, I could have worn the pair I cut out originally <i>over </i>this belly relatively comfortably. Or my pjs would have been pants with the MC Hammer low-crotch. Either way, it was good I slept on it, because I woke up fully lucid and just chopped off about 2.5 inches from the top. (That way, these would still be loose on the hips, lowish in the crotch, but not re-dik.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQQTs7ndNtpP5q4nsmw1QOPPD3-0QxjLECEPVLMBXqtuxPl5uvrGGdBhVNhD1NCJ6ROWamA4Hn0mZlh4llW6uXT0z9K4VhfCSVQve_n4pycEhI2XE9JnOTT9almoTH9nTV0T8/s1600/read.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQQTs7ndNtpP5q4nsmw1QOPPD3-0QxjLECEPVLMBXqtuxPl5uvrGGdBhVNhD1NCJ6ROWamA4Hn0mZlh4llW6uXT0z9K4VhfCSVQve_n4pycEhI2XE9JnOTT9almoTH9nTV0T8/s1600/read.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well, while I'm waiting, I'll just read some.</td></tr>
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As for reading material, I am sadly waaaay too hyper-focused on sewing these days to read any fiction consistently. However, I do make some time to read some books on getting ready to get my little child out into the world with minimal resemblance to the Alien movies. A yoga teacher I know lent me this book, Birthing From Within, and so I'm reading that. Along with another book on pregnancy (The Thinking Woman's Guide to Pregnancy... I think?) and <i>A Dance With Dragons</i> when I stop obsessing about sewing. Birthing From Within is good, as it's about really exploring your own expectations and questions about the birth experience. My main complaint so far is that it has all of these fun-sounding art assignments that I want to do, but am too busy doing other things. At least one of those things is sewing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMoW8polXiM013UegjPhZ40uuBsrTVRV_wHyStHD-0u470klgPA7gZJyh4J9R-Upk2lMnHTAUbGzMkVildZuIyDM5kCFhzyJgxSi6mayhEygeV1cOdTXpMRIsEGRkuQ8YRMDu/s1600/sleep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMoW8polXiM013UegjPhZ40uuBsrTVRV_wHyStHD-0u470klgPA7gZJyh4J9R-Upk2lMnHTAUbGzMkVildZuIyDM5kCFhzyJgxSi6mayhEygeV1cOdTXpMRIsEGRkuQ8YRMDu/s1600/sleep.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Yawn* Wake me when the party gets here.</td></tr>
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I must admit though, that I am proud of this very simple project. Unlike my Bambi shirt, the issues to which I still need to fully confess, I tried to actually think the seam finishes and other details through. I did flat felled seams, because they're the neatest to me, and simply pinked the center seam, since the cotton is so thin. Thank goodness for easy patterns, because it was just what I needed to simply enjoy the process and be more present in the experience.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gh0SyHb2H-nN1EHyBYWX_4f2HeoU9-jgIgvhERdJit6HeauHQzNGeZXVFZP0XMGn1z4OlzlZRk2JTASamCvn2YCh9cE7OP2XKS9Rcomgh5hpwgdlEkRGQjxmoHsabKNys8Bb/s1600/detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gh0SyHb2H-nN1EHyBYWX_4f2HeoU9-jgIgvhERdJit6HeauHQzNGeZXVFZP0XMGn1z4OlzlZRk2JTASamCvn2YCh9cE7OP2XKS9Rcomgh5hpwgdlEkRGQjxmoHsabKNys8Bb/s1600/detail.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you want to see seams and print details on the fabric, I'm sorry, but you have to look at my bum.</td></tr>
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I anticipate wearing these shorts around the house a lot come summer, when my prego-self will be hot and grumpy. The choice of fabric continues to gratify me because it's so light and non-assuming and soft. Is it wrong if I wear these all day?<br />
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I also plan on making a pair or two of yoga pants as well, but they'll have to wait for when I finish making a dress or two for this week's special events.<br />
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Thanks Karen for hosting the fun party! And darn it, I wish I could try that <a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/2012/04/28/oonaballoonas-pyjama-party-sweeteeny-tini-cocktail/">Sweeteeny Tini</a>! <a href="http://oonaballoona.blogspot.com/">Oona</a>, do you think Ruggy would make me a post-labor cocktail? I've got some homemade ginger-blood orange vodka I'm steeping over here...<br />
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<br />seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-3221943026881392572012-04-28T23:29:00.000-05:002012-04-28T23:29:23.766-05:00Still HereSorry blogland. I'm still here. Just either sleeping a lot or getting projects done or getting ready for the crazy social blitz that is May. (I've got a work party for hubby, a wedding, a confirmation, a scavenger hunt, extra work hours, midwife appt, and possibly a festival to attend all THIS week!) Did I also mention that I don't really have anything to wear for these fancy events?<br />
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Just a few quick notes to let you know some of what I'm up to:<br />
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I had a project done as of last weekend, but didn't post because the computer wasn't cooperating with me to edit the photos. Here's my one photo off of Flickr that I took with my phone out of frustration.<br />
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<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/6952954910_c93102a29e_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/6952954910_c93102a29e_z.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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It was for the Sew Weekly challenge for a piece that reflected a piece of clothing from childhood. My favorite t-shirt as a child was my Bambi t-shirt. It strangely made me feel like Rambo-super tough! Even at that age, I understood the irony there. BUT, the shirt was done toute suite, mainly when I should have been packing for a trip to NYC. In my rush, and over confidence?, it has proven to be a half-baked project. I was inspired, but not as interested in quality work, and I feel it shows in the way it wears. More on that later, when I do a proper post. All I can say is Mindful Sewing is getting a little harder to execute than I had hoped.<br />
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<a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Spring-Top-Week-Button-2012-Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.made-by-rae.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Spring-Top-Week-Button-2012-Blue.jpg" /></a></div>
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I did enter it in Made By Rae's Spring Top Sewalong, though, as it was all I could manage with one pic and a trip to enjoy. This was my second entry, my first being the <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/04/birds-bees-top.html">Birds & Bees top</a>, which just so happened to be kindly featured over at <a href="http://www.sewcountrychick.com/">Sew Country Chick</a>'s <a href="http://www.sewcountrychick.com/2012/04/sew-7-tell-saturday-april-28-2012.html">Sew-&-Tell</a> today! Yay!<br />
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I also will have those pajama pants (shorts) tomorrow, a day late for the <a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/pyjama-party-sewalong/">pajama party sewalong</a>.<br />
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Because I was either sleeping or walking around in a stupor of baby growing. And then my sewing machine got all wonky. I've got to get that thing looked at... the stitches were all inconsistent lengths and the thread above the needle would get caught in the seam below the needle. Anyone have that happen before? What the heck is that?!?!?!<br />
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I've switched over to another machine, so I'm hoping projects will be finished.<br />
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In the meantime, I'm cutting, altering, and measuring (hopefully mindfully, and hopefully in the opposite order listed) for a few other projects in mind. I feel like I'm bursting with ideas, totally lacking in time and energy, and having faaaaar too many deadlines approaching! Sister-in-law's baby shower is in two weeks, and I'm still trying to figure out decoration/favors to do. And that doesn't even cover all the birthdays and Mother's Day. I mean, did you see that week I've got ahead of me?!?<br />
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Hope to come up for air and say hi again tomorrow!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-87024802350996290922012-04-21T02:00:00.000-05:002012-04-21T02:00:03.277-05:00Sew, Baby! Challenge (and other projects)For those of you in the know, both <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/">Kat </a>and myself are expecting little bundles of joy to enter our lives come September. We thought it would be fun to create a bit of a sewing challenge for us and anyone else who wants to join, since we are finding our need for a new wardrobe growing every week!<br />
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Allow me to introduce the Sew, Baby! Challenge! It is essentially a way for us to make maternity and baby projects with a few categories in mind to help us maintain some variety in our sewing and still meet some quickly developing needs. It will help me focus, anyway. :)<br />
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We've broken down the challenge into different categories:<br />
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-Vintage</div>
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-Alterations (including refashions and pattern play)</div>
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-Dresses</div>
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-Separates</div>
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-Nesting/Baby</div>
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I think that the names of the categories are basically self-explanatory, and there will be clearly some overlap. I already have a vintage dress pattern I'm gearing up to make, and Kat is the queen of vintage dresses. As I've stated earlier, I myself will be working as much from my stash and/or free patterns as I can, which means they will frequently fall into the categories of vintage or alterations/refashions. If we can expand our wardrobe and do it on the cheap, all the more resources we can later spend on our little wiggles, right?<br />
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The only category that may need some clarification is the nesting/baby one, as it is set up to catch both baby clothes and things like baby blankets, toys, decorations, etc. There is such a slew of projects out there one could pursue to prepare for a baby!<br />
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If you are pregnant or know someone who is who you'd like to sew for, you are SO VERY welcome to join in! There are plenty of ways to reinterpret projects and patterns to account for the changes that come with being mama-belly or baby friendly, and I'd love to see what you would bring to the table. If anything, we can consolidate some online resources here as we're progressing on our projects for anyone else to reference.<br />
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Besides the Moon Munkie Make updates and the Sew, Baby! Challenge, I wanted to review some other things I'm contemplating/participating in. I received a nice package in the mail from the recent Sew Weekly Circle pattern swap. :) Thanks, Tina! These goodies will come in handy for the Sew, Baby! Challenge, I think. :D</div>
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I also am still trying to figure out if I'm going to participate in the <a href="http://sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/me-made-may-12-join-me.html">Me-Made-May</a> for this year, as I would love to participate but am a little unsure I'd have enough homemade pieces to wear. It's really just a matter of deciding on what a reasonable commitment would be. I <i>think</i> I can pull off three me-made-items a week, but I am waffling. But, my impression is that this may be the best time for be to participate because of my stash-slashing and need for a new wardrobe. :)</div>
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More updates to come! In the meantime, I'm going to try and explore some of the Garment District in NYC this weekend. Wish me luck! (There are just some jersey fabrics that would work great for maternity patterns that I just don't have access to in my stash, you see. SpandexWorld, here I come!)</div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-13509970909553630452012-04-19T18:18:00.001-05:002012-04-20T18:56:44.186-05:00Moon Munkie Giveaway: Catching up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hey folks!</div>
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I am a little behind on posts, as I've been really focusing on conquering that sewing room of mine. If I can get the stash down to manageable levels before the wee one arrives, I may actually have a place to put the darlin'.<br />
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Progress is slow, mind you. In part because I continue to get more and more goodies! :) <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/">Kat</a> participated in the <a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/">Moon Munkie giveaway</a> and <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/2012/02/28/mystery-make-winners/">offered her own little packages</a> to some lucky winners. One of the winners didn't respond, and I was able to step in as a substitute winner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkY8ROPx47va5FPNhFsEvvcbjCtMVHcXSLsHIU4lBQ0Pcz5MKIKUm2Fd79wUdcZMe7B0_ju0nOP3TTvJIcMcE10QpixzC4f_rxZ1PWIBJpT8-6NlnyEClHeSPPv8f-DP8FOYg/s320/MOONMUNKIEMYSTERYMAKEgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkY8ROPx47va5FPNhFsEvvcbjCtMVHcXSLsHIU4lBQ0Pcz5MKIKUm2Fd79wUdcZMe7B0_ju0nOP3TTvJIcMcE10QpixzC4f_rxZ1PWIBJpT8-6NlnyEClHeSPPv8f-DP8FOYg/s320/MOONMUNKIEMYSTERYMAKEgraphic.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here's what I received:<br />
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Nice, right? The fabric in the background has species native to New Zealand all over it, and as Kat noted in her card, I am an avid fan of little critters. The stranger the better. And being the isolated islands that it is, New Zealand is bound to be full of fun little creatures. I already know what I'm going to use some of this fabric for, so I hope to post on one of the finished projects in the next couple weeks (As I've had Kat's package for a couple weeks now.)<br />
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And the pattern for pajamas has arrived right on time for me to participate in the<a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/pyjama-party-sewalong"> Pyjama Party</a> hosted by <a href="http://didyoumakethat.wordpress.com/">Did You Make That?</a> I may veer towards pajama shorts, but we'll have to see. I'm sure super comfy pants will be welcome as I continue to become more awkward and ball-like in the next few months. :)<br />
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And if you haven't seen the two projects that <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/">Maider's</a> posted using the stuff I sent her? She's actually just let us know <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/2012/04/the-winners-are.html">who won </a>her own Moon Munkie packages, so I am sadly too late to convince any of you to sign up for them. But I do love her innovative use of the plastic craft mesh (for lack of a better term),<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESmF4jiUatibUtLTMTtPqjmrv0c0ggk7H7NkUxdJOz346lRv1C9kCo5-NaPgtpQNFJbHAiLXga4X0m8UoBGS7heEvJ92dgE1fexUTVvSfrDKVm33HyBdKUueknWFQ6gVsZgBM/s640/P4025687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiESmF4jiUatibUtLTMTtPqjmrv0c0ggk7H7NkUxdJOz346lRv1C9kCo5-NaPgtpQNFJbHAiLXga4X0m8UoBGS7heEvJ92dgE1fexUTVvSfrDKVm33HyBdKUueknWFQ6gVsZgBM/s640/P4025687.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/">Masustak eguzkitan</a></td></tr>
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and I am especially fond of her refashion of the skirt I sent.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_bPBqMX2kDYu40ni7K9kbhVLVWBzjnuhm5W8emIdWEoTvKssjdbqXwF1PYWWDXEibZFWKji-U0s_Bbs_X-UW8Fy2RrOc_SRC5dQzbK6bUXzP-MHSxwDt__88VTCnk_6gSJbY/s640/P4075716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_bPBqMX2kDYu40ni7K9kbhVLVWBzjnuhm5W8emIdWEoTvKssjdbqXwF1PYWWDXEibZFWKji-U0s_Bbs_X-UW8Fy2RrOc_SRC5dQzbK6bUXzP-MHSxwDt__88VTCnk_6gSJbY/s640/P4075716.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/">Masustak eguzkitan</a></td></tr>
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<br />seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-58414451694050909512012-04-17T07:34:00.000-05:002012-04-17T07:34:26.249-05:00Birds & Bees Top<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymZwE_WbNN7ou3irZMI-eUjtv2YpZYN099QoXdYhAFRLVSsAjvdjyWsyXEFp7HH8zVlnifZ6GZPmQqzkwxlI0uqGe72x1-j8-By6g3RqCJpQpI5FnCA4PxDjYC9K23l9UcDRW/s1600/34view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgymZwE_WbNN7ou3irZMI-eUjtv2YpZYN099QoXdYhAFRLVSsAjvdjyWsyXEFp7HH8zVlnifZ6GZPmQqzkwxlI0uqGe72x1-j8-By6g3RqCJpQpI5FnCA4PxDjYC9K23l9UcDRW/s1600/34view.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Focus is hard to get when you're taking pictures of your self.</td></tr>
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So, I thought that my need for more maternity friendly tops would be a good excuse to participate in <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/03/spring-top-sewalong-2012/">Made By Rae's Spring Top Sewalong</a>. I've never actually participated in it, so I thought I'd make the effort.<br />
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I can't say that my shirt is all that compelling compared to the competition, but I like it. I've had this bee print jersey for over a year, and had actually intended on using it for this free shirt pattern (<a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/chickadee">Chickadee</a> by <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/profiles/prudencerabbit/my_activity">prudencerabbit</a> over at <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/">Burdastyle</a>) for ages. This maternity thing coupled with my need to shop my stash has really made for getting a lot of half-baked projects done. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgH18IIO4JjpSktprCYeTOr2L0Sll10VC5iZFlW8LOPqDfBeD2o3I4Ipafy1B9G8LDRX9MC54F0I3eJFxTD8K2sGCbc4AtrFc84k2ku3gV8a-Bi95ZGQ9RGqtwS-FiPOQzChc/s1600/back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgH18IIO4JjpSktprCYeTOr2L0Sll10VC5iZFlW8LOPqDfBeD2o3I4Ipafy1B9G8LDRX9MC54F0I3eJFxTD8K2sGCbc4AtrFc84k2ku3gV8a-Bi95ZGQ9RGqtwS-FiPOQzChc/s1600/back.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pardon the wrinkles... I never see these things until it's too late.</td></tr>
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Anyhow, the pattern is super easy and I just altered the bottom of the bodice to have more fabric to account for belly growth. I had used a thrifted jersey pillow case for the dusty blue fabric, and didn't have enough to add the extra bit, so I inserted some more bee jersey. I like the look better than had I just kept it all one color, I think.<br />
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The sizing of the pattern is a little on the big size for me usually, so the shoulder/upper area feels a little swimmy, but I figure it should all come in handy in the next few months.<br />
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I may even add a darker blue contrast hem later on to make sure the belly remains covered at the bottom as I get bigger. I think it may also tie in the sleeves more with the completed piece.<br />
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<br />seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-84255148931361290742012-04-15T18:38:00.000-05:002012-04-15T18:38:08.600-05:00Sewn Arts Sunday: Islamabad Fashion WeekSo, I may love my own clothes, but I can't say I'm much of a fashionista. I know what I like, and I often do not discern the nuances of the runway that so many other folks seem able to do.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dailymessenger.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/PG84.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="337" nda="true" src="http://dailymessenger.com.pk/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/PG84.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://dailymessenger.com.pk/pakistan/2012/04/11/2nd-edition-of-islamabad-fashion-week-2012-begins/">Daily Messenger</a></td></tr>
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However, this past week was the Islamabad Fashion Week, and when I saw a post on it I really wanted to share it with you. The principal reason for this is that we are often so bombarded by Western fashion meccas and their fashion weeks, that we don't realize just how many amazing fashion designers there are out there. We also take for granted that all fashion is for skinny (read: gaunt) models who don't like to wear much in terms of fabric. Working with traditional fashion concepts within Pakistani culture as well as modern fashion concepts, the designers for this fashion week reminded me of just how much more there is out there to play with. And how modest things can be while still being provocative. And how many shirtless male models there are world-wide.</div>
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Enjoy the shots below, but certainly check out the website for <a href="http://www.ifw.com.pk/">Islamabad Fashion Week</a>. <a href="http://www.pmm.net.pk/2012/04/islamabad-fashion-week-2012-day-3-pictures/">Pakistan Music Mind</a> also seems to have an extensive level of coverage as well. :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ianslive.in/upload/Multimedia/ibd-fashion20120412173922_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="http://ianslive.in/upload/Multimedia/ibd-fashion20120412173922_l.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://ianslive.in/">Ianslive.in</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.pmm.net.pk/wp-content/gallery/islamabad-fashion-week/48.jpg">Pakistan Music Mind</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://atsfashion.com/home/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/khaadi-khaas-_169__1862262a-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="http://atsfashion.com/home/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/khaadi-khaas-_169__1862262a-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://atsfashion.com/home/tag/fashion-week/">ATS Fashion</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.allpakistaninews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Islamabad-Fashion-Week-2011-AllPakistaniNews.Com-41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="http://www.allpakistaninews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Islamabad-Fashion-Week-2011-AllPakistaniNews.Com-41.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://clothingforwomen.blogspot.com/2011/10/islamabad-fashion-week-2012.html">Clothing for Women</a>/<a href="http://www.allpakistaninews.com/">All Pakistani News</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pmm.net.pk/wp-content/gallery/islamabad-fashion-week/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="http://www.pmm.net.pk/wp-content/gallery/islamabad-fashion-week/33.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.pmm.net.pk/wp-content/gallery/islamabad-fashion-week/33.jpg">pmm.net.pk</a></td></tr>
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</div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-24138228084643929002012-04-10T21:22:00.001-05:002012-04-10T21:22:54.921-05:00My Drape Stripe Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAAtZMrQOYehySgL7yfSf9Ue2X3-ghyphenhyphennY9o8T_muLNTgPf6I0dAl5S1XRqfqF0kFhOdQHDlGqHS17sr-tEPBuNNyGGsx0ic7VOkjGbvEkM9DPV4x1Bp6sN6QhVTKjLBUEyIRg/s1600/sleevebelt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAAtZMrQOYehySgL7yfSf9Ue2X3-ghyphenhyphennY9o8T_muLNTgPf6I0dAl5S1XRqfqF0kFhOdQHDlGqHS17sr-tEPBuNNyGGsx0ic7VOkjGbvEkM9DPV4x1Bp6sN6QhVTKjLBUEyIRg/s1600/sleevebelt.jpg" /></a></div>
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A sewing project! Yay!<br />
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I don't know that I have much to say about this project. Based off of Drape Drape 2's draped dress pattern, this dress was actually quite easy to make. I have been postponing making the dress because it involved tracing a pattern from a quite crazily packed pattern form from the book. (They had like four different patterns all on top of one another on the same page.) And I didn't have decent tracing paper to use. After seeing a recent recommendation to use blueprint paper, I simply went to the art store near my doctor's and bought me a couple of rolls. Genius. Why didn't I just do that before. I ask you?!?!? (That's right! It's <i>your</i> fault!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOSoSZaifL-MUpnZq7Uh5ajofRslZQlvd82JnkE80jRCh8QAoBF2xe-U_57gKQIHvwCVO81AZ68hpix63BjDdF-Sv05s-H0GBr452lahKC4HiXVi5EpudpgjtWKTZyoBsHXna/s1600/dressfrontbelt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOSoSZaifL-MUpnZq7Uh5ajofRslZQlvd82JnkE80jRCh8QAoBF2xe-U_57gKQIHvwCVO81AZ68hpix63BjDdF-Sv05s-H0GBr452lahKC4HiXVi5EpudpgjtWKTZyoBsHXna/s1600/dressfrontbelt.jpg" /></a></div>
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That said, the dress came together quickly and easily once I finally traced the pattern like I was supposed to. I added sleeves based off of Simplicity 2261's flutter sleeves, and bound the neckline and sleeves with leftover scraps from a jersey sheet I <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2011/04/gift-making-3.html">refashioned</a> ages ago. Since the edges of the sheet were already folded and bound, it made the binding super easy on the sleeves and easier on the neckline (similar to bias tape, really).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKIwvck1MsE2qN_FQhA2XN0Vd4il5R0gQ73of3qn7_NQbiYzpsua4Xb3cAxOGvStOdlkYuZHiZIRsH4O084Cspe5Veo5_9koHci3vky0qvLQIaOdvb7ILB2Jgc2YPwyxDHUE3/s1600/bellydrape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMKIwvck1MsE2qN_FQhA2XN0Vd4il5R0gQ73of3qn7_NQbiYzpsua4Xb3cAxOGvStOdlkYuZHiZIRsH4O084Cspe5Veo5_9koHci3vky0qvLQIaOdvb7ILB2Jgc2YPwyxDHUE3/s1600/bellydrape.jpg" /></a></div>
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The fabric is super soft and flowy, which makes this top a pleasure to wear. I'm so <i>tactile</i>. I do think that the weight of the sleeves, along with some possible stretching of the neckline while binding may have stretched the neckline a bit further than I would have preferred. But we'll see how it fairs after a washing or two. If it becomes problematic, I'm sure I'll live. Nothing wrong with wearing a tank underneath.<br />
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The best part is that the dress will be super appropriate throughout much of the pregnancy and well after. It is a little short, so I may just wear it as a top at the tail end of the summer. Who knows? I'll keep you up to date as we go along, okay?seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-10989319017926114752012-04-08T02:00:00.000-05:002012-04-08T02:00:05.192-05:00Sewn Arts Sunday: Science LoveI <i>could</i> do a post on Easter, I suppose.<br />
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But my sister's birthday was this past week, so I thought I'd celebrate her a little bit today.<br />
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I have two sisters, both of whom are pretty amazing, strong, highly intelligent women. My younger sister just turned 29 this week, and I must say that there is much that I admire about her. She is a science teacher at a high school, and she is <i>good</i> at it. Having tried to teach an SAT class to overly privileged youth one year, I can say that there is an immense gift that is given to a good teacher. I honestly do not know how they do it.<br />
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I would hate it. But then, I am sure there are things that I enjoy doing that my sisters would never want to do for the long term.<br />
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In honor of my lovely seeester, I immediately thought of sharing these amazing anatomical sculptures by <a href="http://www.karinejollet.com/">Karine Jollet</a>:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/karine-jollet-sculpture-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.craftzine.com/karine-jollet-sculpture-3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2012/02/the_anatomical_textile_sculptu.html">Craftzine</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/karine-jollet-fabric-sculpture-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.craftzine.com/karine-jollet-fabric-sculpture-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2012/02/the_anatomical_textile_sculptu.html">Craftzine</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjts41obJ-bU-JwEq9n-_hSk4AAbjpEMz0LCQupsEacWbEG1w3nyxfb0FOrl_aPQr-M76IgpUZP7aDZHW5FN99CIjQIh2a4wiDtAWex2fyxUJKvHXPotjs3xc8QMr8cxi1Zv2VB/s1600/KJ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjts41obJ-bU-JwEq9n-_hSk4AAbjpEMz0LCQupsEacWbEG1w3nyxfb0FOrl_aPQr-M76IgpUZP7aDZHW5FN99CIjQIh2a4wiDtAWex2fyxUJKvHXPotjs3xc8QMr8cxi1Zv2VB/s1600/KJ3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.anatomanie.blogspot.com/">anatomanie</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DwYa9IzqfA0I_b6ubhqUOqL1SOXhtgRLUbsh9M5MGgmHED1_XcpA4zEbNoLzTWGrEZqr68eKSm9wRtkLhFjKppIDYr0INNkpMBjp98glXFjeBAMenfBxvQcH1bCDvidqF8wWoQ/s1600/IMG_6719+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DwYa9IzqfA0I_b6ubhqUOqL1SOXhtgRLUbsh9M5MGgmHED1_XcpA4zEbNoLzTWGrEZqr68eKSm9wRtkLhFjKppIDYr0INNkpMBjp98glXFjeBAMenfBxvQcH1bCDvidqF8wWoQ/s1600/IMG_6719+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.karinejollet.com/">Karine Jollet</a></td></tr>
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The nerd in me rejoices at such stitchery! And the all of me rejoices in having an admirable and mind-blowingly astounding younger sister!</div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-88377089058370730652012-04-04T13:48:00.000-05:002012-04-04T13:50:42.439-05:00Moon Munkie Make #2: Fabric Sweetpea Blossoms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WwH8ffiSCcu-lEWhQNm84EN9zEG1nyV2k0KB1fV7pTBlDPIhyqbzsa7THPLwc0-2JYowYNzKJex-Dwx260umkW3YKsr51ElIG6j_F49zxyTUUxImLU9iY9-FoeFLXlagcyWh/s1600/MOONMUNKIEMYSTERYMAKEgraphic.jpg" /></div>
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I know. Promises, promises. I tell you I'm going to post, and then I don't. C'est la vie, je suppose. I must say I'm not surprised. I often find that when I make commitments, I tend to follow through only on those that have a deadline that requires in-person performance/presentation of the results. Like, if a whole bunch of folks all agree that something needs to be done by a certain day, I'll likely rush to get it done. When I set my own deadlines, I am far worse at seeing things to their completion.</div>
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That being said, I am quite proud to say that all of these pictures and project works were done well before my verbalized deadline of last Saturday. Or last Monday.</div>
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So, there's that.</div>
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Now, onward to my little mock-up tutorial on the fabric sweet pea blossoms that I made, and on the little seed packets I added in. When I saw the purple fabric squares that <a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/">Moon Munkie</a> <a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/">gave me in my package</a>, they immediately fit in with my germinating notions on what to do for my sister-in-law's baby shower in May.</div>
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With "Sweetpea" as the decorating theme that was chosen for the party, little purple flowers seemed just the thing to do for some small decoration accents at the party. I used this <a href="http://thelibrary.org/lochist/periodicals/bittersweet/sp83g.htm">tutorial</a> and <a href="http://www.castleintheair.biz/shoppe/Galleries/media/quickcrafts/CCQC4_SweetPeaBouquet.pdf">this</a> one as my bases, though they work with crepe paper, which I think gives a nice flaring option for the outer petals that I cannot get with quilting cotton.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrj3vY22rXh9tLnvaaiyF4_PcEhFiIIfSA-WyzEpEqRzKeUcnkgr3_Q7PuWVUwCKtatTTCbuT8EOp4HClg7_3EpMiZiEQsgertmR5_Dr4KKkOHLiKnL83ewY1V9OUtDUDFO3B/s1600/IMG_3537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLrj3vY22rXh9tLnvaaiyF4_PcEhFiIIfSA-WyzEpEqRzKeUcnkgr3_Q7PuWVUwCKtatTTCbuT8EOp4HClg7_3EpMiZiEQsgertmR5_Dr4KKkOHLiKnL83ewY1V9OUtDUDFO3B/s640/IMG_3537.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting goodies</td></tr>
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The first step I took was to fold the squares in half and trace circles that filled out much of the triangle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESbkIIDwl8Jn0JFrRpNRXKPbIj1Vrg7nbLbow5-7aSrmxS3SUNt35McxUStgHeReMW2XDlZ-OGVwBJxBIfnUq-fAV5l9yXz-VU5a5t_r2NVGDJKpRJG1JH1_sxJjqQdC1GDu9/s1600/IMG_3538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjESbkIIDwl8Jn0JFrRpNRXKPbIj1Vrg7nbLbow5-7aSrmxS3SUNt35McxUStgHeReMW2XDlZ-OGVwBJxBIfnUq-fAV5l9yXz-VU5a5t_r2NVGDJKpRJG1JH1_sxJjqQdC1GDu9/s640/IMG_3538.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snip, snip!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKFP8NZKRCAXj3CLCu5D2gk3j3g-ycIx6kKIv71NH1Pc9z07jCda961xRtrRZxCQgb3ZArvStV8UPSIxTVytN0f0DX0g4JdNjpYntO-oiEqygx7BbYPZspwsU0JRRGf1D3uwm/s1600/IMG_3541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKFP8NZKRCAXj3CLCu5D2gk3j3g-ycIx6kKIv71NH1Pc9z07jCda961xRtrRZxCQgb3ZArvStV8UPSIxTVytN0f0DX0g4JdNjpYntO-oiEqygx7BbYPZspwsU0JRRGf1D3uwm/s640/IMG_3541.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely little lavender circles</td></tr>
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Taking two contrasting circles, I placed them one on top of the other and pinched them in the middle. I had originally imagined trying to place some of the sweet pea seeds I bought for the party favors inside, but the circles here were too small. And I think it'd compromise the gathering, though I'll likely try it later with larger circles just in case.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqK2Aa9fEHqYAdysOxdJyzTuSodziYxWTM2SbiIkYq1GP5fOrwQARlT0BKuP9WyjfIQfo2UcXRhk6nRIg-k6bA9Oe2fhwlsmYjpa4GOUw7YwYjWoXTEu-YwyjjQslBGpMckBT6/s1600/IMG_3543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqK2Aa9fEHqYAdysOxdJyzTuSodziYxWTM2SbiIkYq1GP5fOrwQARlT0BKuP9WyjfIQfo2UcXRhk6nRIg-k6bA9Oe2fhwlsmYjpa4GOUw7YwYjWoXTEu-YwyjjQslBGpMckBT6/s640/IMG_3543.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gather in the middle with a pinch.</td></tr>
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Taking floral/craft wire, I simply wrapped around the middle and then flared the petals out. The inner petals, I tend to tug a little down, so that the top petal can peak out over the top.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIgJRAcXTLpArfNl0GCI_thfzkIQsavVW8DSVwTuc-9FZqjE8_a-ZftmIPlFjVjrgTr-AafIHvpMMDPPz4dNbiSTRsXafUakFAHshS3mTetIhxfWFkBq-vsTxO0YOcBrbadbD/s1600/IMG_3546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIgJRAcXTLpArfNl0GCI_thfzkIQsavVW8DSVwTuc-9FZqjE8_a-ZftmIPlFjVjrgTr-AafIHvpMMDPPz4dNbiSTRsXafUakFAHshS3mTetIhxfWFkBq-vsTxO0YOcBrbadbD/s640/IMG_3546.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Et, voila!</td></tr>
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And that's pretty much it. A cute purple little sweet pea blossom to attach to things as you see fit. :)<br />
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I am contemplating making the leaves/outer green portion of the flower and then using floral tape and wire to make stems and little curlicues. See <a href="http://www.allthingspaper.net/2011/04/sweet-peas.html">here</a>:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wwMvxqCFNVIfzxXGEbNTPmySKExDHDwFVPeBOnylJKjdjGlNRRgUhKpjoMqXEDr0GI38runHiz-r8KrS3RFQuRk0W8ufXA8lv8b9Y-grqNCmE_L9jJ4c-Kuubdhm2vMYHZ7D/s1600/crepe-paper-sweet-peas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wwMvxqCFNVIfzxXGEbNTPmySKExDHDwFVPeBOnylJKjdjGlNRRgUhKpjoMqXEDr0GI38runHiz-r8KrS3RFQuRk0W8ufXA8lv8b9Y-grqNCmE_L9jJ4c-Kuubdhm2vMYHZ7D/s640/crepe-paper-sweet-peas.jpg" width="504" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wwMvxqCFNVIfzxXGEbNTPmySKExDHDwFVPeBOnylJKjdjGlNRRgUhKpjoMqXEDr0GI38runHiz-r8KrS3RFQuRk0W8ufXA8lv8b9Y-grqNCmE_L9jJ4c-Kuubdhm2vMYHZ7D/s1600/crepe-paper-sweet-peas.jpg">all things paper</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But I may also use these fabric ones to decorate the <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/03/moon-munkie-make-project-1-vine-banner.html">"grace" wall hanging</a>. I would have even showed you how it looked on the hanging I posted on earlier, if it hadn't blown away off my porch this past week. Ah well. More ivy is waiting for snipping and forming, I suppose.<br />
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I know that someone had stated she used some fusible webbing to strengthen the fabric she used on her version of these, and I do wonder if adding some starch or other stiffener may help with long-term aesthetics. I'm not sure though. I do think the crepe paper adds a small advantage in that department.<br />
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With the scraps, I was able to make teeeeeeny tiny little seed packets with twisted wire closures. I am imagining up ways to incorporate them into the party favors. They are so teeny, I worry they are anticlimactic on their own. I haven't found a satisfactory delivery agent, so if any of you have any suggestions (preferably cheap!), let me know! Currently, I have quotes on seeds and grace that I expect to accompany each party favor.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyRhAvPCiSZol0RJv8hROf3hhSmmRe16XWUDMruf9yVEVaqQRSdqsCPdXFZLg5EqkcslwIo2IXHFEamMV5UM-sQ2WKhpSV6-2qO-6ZHJIGrpxcvOIYZXNI61wFc3TOwEmyGA7/s1600/IMG_3549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyRhAvPCiSZol0RJv8hROf3hhSmmRe16XWUDMruf9yVEVaqQRSdqsCPdXFZLg5EqkcslwIo2IXHFEamMV5UM-sQ2WKhpSV6-2qO-6ZHJIGrpxcvOIYZXNI61wFc3TOwEmyGA7/s640/IMG_3549.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">small wrap</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYc3DmxqH47F9j1DzeUQlctJ__seXHHQSwC3rzZmejrtbA2MewZqZNp8M90JxGWB32wy4AmvKJU_GljPJJcJB-8mIiCjl3nU5K58JLkMTIS5839hR-nbOhCiWk4TNSV5mdJRM7/s1600/IMG_3550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYc3DmxqH47F9j1DzeUQlctJ__seXHHQSwC3rzZmejrtbA2MewZqZNp8M90JxGWB32wy4AmvKJU_GljPJJcJB-8mIiCjl3nU5K58JLkMTIS5839hR-nbOhCiWk4TNSV5mdJRM7/s640/IMG_3550.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finished results, taken too late in the day and mangled by a flash</td></tr>
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<a href="http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/">http://moonmunkie.wordpress.com/2012/02/15/moon-munkie-mystery-make-giveaway-experiment/</a>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-17007704915298864502012-04-01T09:50:00.001-05:002012-04-01T09:51:07.005-05:00Sewn Arts Sunday: Spring!So, last week, I tried to find inspirational sewn arts related to Spring, what with the vernal equinox action, the cherry blossom festival in DC, and Easter fast approaching. And I really found very little that was worth noticing, much less talking about.<br />
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This week, as expectant mothers are wont to do, I thought I'd just dwell on the them of babies. And instead found this awesome show, Stitched Ground, which has textile artists who portray the land in their works. Perfect for Spring!<br />
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Behold, the works of Terese Agnew (my have because of all that greeeeeeeen):<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thedailypage.com/media/2010/02/26/586ArtAgnewTerese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thedailypage.com/media/2010/02/26/586ArtAgnewTerese.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.thedailypage.com/arts/article.php?article=28304">The Daily Page</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.designgallery.wisc.edu/exhibits/stitchedground/slideshow/fullsize/ta05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.designgallery.wisc.edu/exhibits/stitchedground/slideshow/fullsize/ta05.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.designgallery.wisc.edu/exhibits/stitchedground/TereseAgnew.html">Design Gallery</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.huggettandniver.com/">Chris Niver</a> (Places that make me wish I was out hiking and adventuring):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://frankjuarez.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/rocks-and-clouds-20071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://frankjuarez.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/rocks-and-clouds-20071.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://frankjuarez.wordpress.com/projekts/indiana-green/">Frank Juarez</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://leahevanstextiles.com/">Leah Evans</a> (Farmland makes me think of Spring all the time):<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://desotoparkstudio.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/leah-evans-arpent-bend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://desotoparkstudio.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/leah-evans-arpent-bend.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://desotoparkstudio.wordpress.com/2012/02/20/the-arpent-a-settlement-pattern/">Desoto Park Studio</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.designboom.com/tools/WPro/images/10t/je1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="442" src="http://www.designboom.com/tools/WPro/images/10t/je1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/10/view/4899/map-quilts-by-leah-evans.html">Design Boom</a></td></tr>
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<br />
and <a href="http://midwesttextiles.wordpress.com/">Sarah Gagnon</a> (look at those little corner details of plant like things in an urban setting! and rocks too!):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://midwesttextiles.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/dsc_0576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="632" src="http://midwesttextiles.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/dsc_0576.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://midwesttextiles.wordpress.com/">Midwest Textiles</a></td></tr>
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<br />
I had intended to post my latest Moon Munkie Make yesterday, but didn't get to it. Got caught up in a sewing project. So, I will try to get it up tomorrow. :Dseekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-69257423493382174192012-03-28T21:12:00.000-05:002012-03-28T21:12:32.109-05:00Once Upon This March, or Former St Paddy's Day Plans<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyPQHio5JiqS0Lf6jJcjlrfGbsYdnjs8F_h7TvmLxlSkoPKdOabGMRC336bZLuVxz7bYp-_3jdN7GLNij9T_xaV2_IdG4WVWNm0jTiiiIBde7HDTHVwIRl11qlPc1nJDNW7GQ/s1600/IMG_5301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTyPQHio5JiqS0Lf6jJcjlrfGbsYdnjs8F_h7TvmLxlSkoPKdOabGMRC336bZLuVxz7bYp-_3jdN7GLNij9T_xaV2_IdG4WVWNm0jTiiiIBde7HDTHVwIRl11qlPc1nJDNW7GQ/s320/IMG_5301.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A poor quality pic of shirts I wanted to use</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Believe it or not, I actually had plans to have a Sew Weekly and Refashion Co-Op post way back around St. Paddy's day. I had intended on taking two big t-shirts from Buddy's work party on last year's St. Paddy's day and whip them up into some sophisticated dress that I could wear to this year's party. But it was a significant fail. The "draping" I did on my person made it look like the dress may just work out beautifully, but instead, as I tried to interpret it into a useable outfit, things just got ugly.<br />
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So I scratched it. For now. I have to undo some elastic I put in there, and I anticipate a significant increase in cutting as well. Still not sure I've reached a point where I can reliably refashion without a pattern. At least not for dressy parties.<br />
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But I did a much simpler refashion that same day, and the clothing item was also green and grey.<br />
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You know how Mena has her "Mena test" for clothes, when she determines whether she actually needs to put a zipper in? I think I have a "Seeks test" for refashions: If a top can fit over my hips and stay put, it is fair game for a skirt. In fact, it is almost automatically going to be made into a skirt. See the first example <a href="http://theseekspeak.blogspot.com/2012/01/christmas-recap-clothing-projects.html">here</a> or <a href="http://refashionco-op.blogspot.com/2011/12/refashioned-sweater-to-skirt.html">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kc4sLFPBXdoBfcyKaDbWVeKp6juKNXhCRGaeWFAlmTfHbhI3L-0DXj71-l-Ks2ZS3r9JWIEQahXK3Cdh6w8BPNVmlBc03KmNo6Sg7Rl0C9cD0_UupNf83WMA_vaeSXI-fcbv/s1600/IMG_2523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kc4sLFPBXdoBfcyKaDbWVeKp6juKNXhCRGaeWFAlmTfHbhI3L-0DXj71-l-Ks2ZS3r9JWIEQahXK3Cdh6w8BPNVmlBc03KmNo6Sg7Rl0C9cD0_UupNf83WMA_vaeSXI-fcbv/s640/IMG_2523.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
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I picked up this Old Navy shirt at a Goodwill by my parents months ago. Loving the stripes, but not wanting to just wear it the same as usual way, I tucked it away in my far too big stack for refashions and stewed on it. But the refashion itself is quite simple: Cut off sleeves, Sew a skirt-appropriate silhouette, Wear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYn7xbVhLJ0Yywqlc3mIsT52xuKTpaQltesMkZKZZ0ZBIVGShbGqyMjDNTOFL_IquAbFUwgtp1b5qDhCFuLFlRzQsMyi9TQol8Y3iF6HiFKq8Klkk_4BiJPRCKIpdDBNIbqRQQ/s1600/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYn7xbVhLJ0Yywqlc3mIsT52xuKTpaQltesMkZKZZ0ZBIVGShbGqyMjDNTOFL_IquAbFUwgtp1b5qDhCFuLFlRzQsMyi9TQol8Y3iF6HiFKq8Klkk_4BiJPRCKIpdDBNIbqRQQ/s1600/front.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's super comfortable, and makes me excited to wear it too. As a shirt, it felt standard; as a skirt, it feels playful and a little less conventional.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEwm9gAcbk2D-Px0GtC649_ZtevphWJzMdo_sXm-MD-CFf82f4jIk9JTcDh6-vmhwqlU_8LH0HYfska4Mol2xz4hROLRgZzBKhC9WxEYv2hlDjcSzEqZnVpWYUE4hxcqsKRIX/s1600/sideview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEwm9gAcbk2D-Px0GtC649_ZtevphWJzMdo_sXm-MD-CFf82f4jIk9JTcDh6-vmhwqlU_8LH0HYfska4Mol2xz4hROLRgZzBKhC9WxEYv2hlDjcSzEqZnVpWYUE4hxcqsKRIX/s640/sideview.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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What is nice about this particular shirt's neckline, is that it has a slight dip in the front. Which makes room for my 16-week, soon to be more glamourous (read: bigger) pregnant belly. :) The waistband doesn't pinch or squeeze, and sits right below the usual offended area for such things. I am unsure if the constant use I expect to give this skirt will wear out the "waistband", but I will definitely be testing it out. If it becomes unusable, I have some nice stretchy green knit fabric that would do quite well as a new waistband.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJMHEYmURJKvPWkUSpzgepacEFYxulL8J3oH7BG3l2y3oq9Ygvisuk1JTSoeBj-RHU_wCgpIKztgezcGV05rfZ3XvzSdFW1WowpORp0kYmTassVxoS1ZiSYYbldKqHg3H_ZHY/s1600/belly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJMHEYmURJKvPWkUSpzgepacEFYxulL8J3oH7BG3l2y3oq9Ygvisuk1JTSoeBj-RHU_wCgpIKztgezcGV05rfZ3XvzSdFW1WowpORp0kYmTassVxoS1ZiSYYbldKqHg3H_ZHY/s1600/belly.jpg" /></a></div>
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Though I couldn't think of a better lead-in to my happy news than this, (though <a href="http://macskakat.wordpress.com/">Kat</a> did a spectacular <a href="http://www.sewweekly.com/2012/03/the-hey-baby-dress/">reveal</a>!), I am very happy to announce a veer in sewing plans this summer. My vintage patterns for wiggle skirts and dresses will have to be put on hold for a little bit, as my body is doing all kinds of crazy things. :) As my plans solidify, I will happily share them with you!<br />
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Happy Sewing!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-45043125506384571752012-03-27T02:00:00.000-05:002012-03-26T17:30:29.864-05:00Moon Munkie Make Project #1: Vine Banner<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopRDuiY7e9_a0redN3XGG365-IdJ4D2yUykPPouH0iSde4YQOV936lD-iGrf-7pgVTboF9kpMOekfLWSk68m840wmqW5zzaS_0JYyvsQz0oiI1DBkP_dD47d10xzHcbNGdMOu/s1600/IMG_5316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopRDuiY7e9_a0redN3XGG365-IdJ4D2yUykPPouH0iSde4YQOV936lD-iGrf-7pgVTboF9kpMOekfLWSk68m840wmqW5zzaS_0JYyvsQz0oiI1DBkP_dD47d10xzHcbNGdMOu/s640/IMG_5316.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay, Spring!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soooo, I would like to first let you folks know that these projects being posted are drafts. I only let you know that because I am a bit timid on the use of Moon Munkie's goodies on some of these things because I want to make sure I'll have enough to use them for the final draft.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WwH8ffiSCcu-lEWhQNm84EN9zEG1nyV2k0KB1fV7pTBlDPIhyqbzsa7THPLwc0-2JYowYNzKJex-Dwx260umkW3YKsr51ElIG6j_F49zxyTUUxImLU9iY9-FoeFLXlagcyWh/s1600/MOONMUNKIEMYSTERYMAKEgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WwH8ffiSCcu-lEWhQNm84EN9zEG1nyV2k0KB1fV7pTBlDPIhyqbzsa7THPLwc0-2JYowYNzKJex-Dwx260umkW3YKsr51ElIG6j_F49zxyTUUxImLU9iY9-FoeFLXlagcyWh/s640/MOONMUNKIEMYSTERYMAKEgraphic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As stated earlier, I want to use the goodies Jemma sent to make some decorations for my sister-in-law's baby shower coming in May. The theme will be Sweet Pea, since this is one of her decorating themes for their expected wee'un come June. It made sense to me to stick with a heavy spring-y, floral theme. Light and green. One of the first things I wanted to do was make something similar to this from Martha Stewart:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/kids/2006Q1/0306_shower_main_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/kids/2006Q1/0306_shower_main_xl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274380/baby-shower-themes/@center/276963/baby-shower-ideas#/180096">Martha Stewart</a></td></tr>
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Instead of "bebe", I thought it'd be nice to do the sweet pea's anticipated name: Grace. My initial thought was to do this with grapevine, as my cousin's yard sports a good bit of it and it is so often used for shaping and wreaths. Unfortunately, after an afternoon of trekking through the woods and gathering some grapevine, I found that it was still too brittle to bend and shape for what I had in mind. At least, it is too brittle in March.<br />
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My cousin made an honest effort though, and I have to give her credit for persevering and coming up with some decent letters with the help of lots of floral wire.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVZCX7Gm3v1KwnSuYENF0Lw2oHnZ9JXbVBd60lVjx_O83gjt_d_DYzUsYIXOXOCxec9trJ1OqVOWwP-wesUkn5-oVIT1jBUEVpZ0U-qjvBSjB05O5grUi1hJakvWPEYMooFmX/s1600/IMG_5319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVZCX7Gm3v1KwnSuYENF0Lw2oHnZ9JXbVBd60lVjx_O83gjt_d_DYzUsYIXOXOCxec9trJ1OqVOWwP-wesUkn5-oVIT1jBUEVpZ0U-qjvBSjB05O5grUi1hJakvWPEYMooFmX/s400/IMG_5319.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lpHuorte_H4JURrY9NKGO6e11HDlYrbYOA3CbHwu0q_r4dTM_HjusiKMBsW8marRB8zVh54QtAApkiZTas_6RoTzUqiSpt4k4mGU9vJoTM053gnxJUAM3jrg4Zn__-WwVzY_/s1600/IMG_5318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lpHuorte_H4JURrY9NKGO6e11HDlYrbYOA3CbHwu0q_r4dTM_HjusiKMBsW8marRB8zVh54QtAApkiZTas_6RoTzUqiSpt4k4mGU9vJoTM053gnxJUAM3jrg4Zn__-WwVzY_/s400/IMG_5318.jpg" width="298" /></a><br />
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I was a tad bummed until a week later when I realized that my home is surrounded by ivy vines, which are thinner than grapevine and tend to be evergreen and much more pliable. Using floral wire and then the lovely yarn from Jemma, I constructed a preliminary "grace".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiZfC7olDkGAEUhzFO5dsgzAxhET1m8TRhe824UxO6YrlFc8YeTQz34FGJzJ-fsUDimOLEqHx5NoNSGOM-G3dvU7im_WQrviopUPrfrOwbapNMQQpDy_zZSvznChGWvEewgPC/s1600/IMG_5323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtiZfC7olDkGAEUhzFO5dsgzAxhET1m8TRhe824UxO6YrlFc8YeTQz34FGJzJ-fsUDimOLEqHx5NoNSGOM-G3dvU7im_WQrviopUPrfrOwbapNMQQpDy_zZSvznChGWvEewgPC/s640/IMG_5323.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think that it will read better when each letter is hung from its own string to its own anchor. The use of just the one nail in the side of my house limited my display options, and cramped the "r" and "a" too close for my tastes.<br />
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As stated earlier, the end product is not so "end". I will be adding additional accents with the yarn on the letters, so that it will tie the, er, ties, into the piece more cohesively. I also plan on using Jemma's die-cut purple flowers on the name as accents as well, but did not want to attach them to this draft version. I imagine it would be something like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBqvyV1yFKyWYRLOhNfKiRHE-lrrhMlwcnHoD5YLgomWRDMQyr5vfWkAS63mDtZIfasDH440CsXXr33vcRE_Zy7t_cDGOhzAEGiU6duyxUc6VEAt3kijOUjS0XDUqRQYrZxUf/s1600/IMG_5320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBqvyV1yFKyWYRLOhNfKiRHE-lrrhMlwcnHoD5YLgomWRDMQyr5vfWkAS63mDtZIfasDH440CsXXr33vcRE_Zy7t_cDGOhzAEGiU6duyxUc6VEAt3kijOUjS0XDUqRQYrZxUf/s640/IMG_5320.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm also not quite sure if the letters will be more or less legible with more ivy. My mother suggested adding more, but then I fear it will be just a jumble of leaves and no shape. And, in truth, who says I have to make the final version out of ivy? Perhaps there will be another plant well suited to wire shaping and the "sweet pea" theme? I mean, Martha looks to have used lavender. If only I thought sweet peas would survive the anticipated May heat, I'd grow some for the party to use...<br />
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What do you think?<br />
<br />seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-65071399866702879302012-03-25T13:55:00.000-05:002012-03-25T13:55:33.067-05:00No Sewn Arts SundaySorry, dear readers.<br />
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I just was not inspired by anything that I looked up this week to share for Sewn Arts Sunday.<br />
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You just can't force inspiration. :)<br />
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Here's to a great week for everyone!<br />
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Posts will be made this week, so keep an eye out!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-80290260969539244532012-03-24T07:27:00.005-05:002012-03-26T17:17:26.808-05:00Moon Munkie Packages Are Arriving!I have finished on project for the Moon Munkie Make challenge, and hope to post it on Monday when I'll have time to transfer pictures from my camera. And then I'll have another post to share, hopefully by Thursday next week with some of the other materials. I must say that I love how the color scheme Moon Munkie provided actually works so well for the sweetpea theme for my sister-in-law's baby shower.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2M6mu786SidxNlomfj2RIEvr5_ex_aldOHfBml7RbR3jND0W9K5qqju0P1oHd-XmW5L87s1hdU9QAbGXyidfdmopFHg66UJktVheHToU7uT2XVddFpv-iVDmrTYi7-GDsErR/s1600/P3225459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2M6mu786SidxNlomfj2RIEvr5_ex_aldOHfBml7RbR3jND0W9K5qqju0P1oHd-XmW5L87s1hdU9QAbGXyidfdmopFHg66UJktVheHToU7uT2XVddFpv-iVDmrTYi7-GDsErR/s640/P3225459.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/2012/03/moon-munkie-package-is-here.html">Masustak Eguzkitan</a></td></tr>
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In the meantime, I sent off packages around the world last week (Spain, England, New Zealand!) and it sounds like all of them have arrived safe and sound. Yay!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-l5qiKvMBSfGQVZSCPWCm8d2tzI11ba-gLzF2bwfEE7QGFO13sDUTTmNCU2am97k2wzR75LxeUBbXx_MG91hHNHT3UrMKMq6tlD11VSCyC07nOvKu7Foz8RMtWNg1-cPfYHHrw/s1600/SAM_6287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ-l5qiKvMBSfGQVZSCPWCm8d2tzI11ba-gLzF2bwfEE7QGFO13sDUTTmNCU2am97k2wzR75LxeUBbXx_MG91hHNHT3UrMKMq6tlD11VSCyC07nOvKu7Foz8RMtWNg1-cPfYHHrw/s640/SAM_6287.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://houseofpinheiro.blogspot.com/2012/03/ideas-from-secret-box.html">House of Pinheiro</a></td></tr>
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When I made these packages, I have to admit that I was overwhelmed with trying to share fairly and to give items that would be useable for the sewists they were destined for. I did try to color coordinate when I could, but I felt so self-conscious about getting folks useable materials. But seeing <a href="http://houseofpinheiro.blogspot.com/2012/03/ideas-from-secret-box.html">Rachel</a>'s and <a href="http://masustak-eguzkitan.blogspot.com/2012/03/moon-munkie-package-is-here.html">Maider</a>'s posts, I realize that perhaps I did an okay job. They certainly know how to make all the small bits of material look tons more exciting than when I was packing them.<br />
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Can't wait to see what they come up with!seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-77483103686340002272012-03-18T02:00:00.000-05:002012-03-18T02:00:03.597-05:00Sewn Arts Sunday: Maligayang Kaarawan, Oa!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-TFoLlZLx7bwf0EKGNNOkFR7xKxwKunn81F3tiGicMjOVXAtOhZ55KNb9VZLV_Sc9H709CR7k5leE61lrjXn0dSLTcVed9HxllFWlUrxPR9b4UadBf7Tpan5eNUeMPYSVNV0/s1600/oatot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-TFoLlZLx7bwf0EKGNNOkFR7xKxwKunn81F3tiGicMjOVXAtOhZ55KNb9VZLV_Sc9H709CR7k5leE61lrjXn0dSLTcVed9HxllFWlUrxPR9b4UadBf7Tpan5eNUeMPYSVNV0/s640/oatot.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my grandmother with her mother. I think she's 3? I <strong>know</strong> she's adorable!</td></tr>
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Today is my grandmother's 80th birthday. So not only am I showing off how amazing the dress my great-grandmother is wearing in this picture, I thought I'd also share some links on <a href="http://www.tribo.org/textiles/">Filipino textile arts</a>. As with any culture, particularly island cultures that encourage significant cultural variation, there are many many crafts and textile arts to mention. <br />
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The one I want to note in particular is the embroidery and use of pina fiber to make clothing. Linked with the historical experience of Spanish imperialism, <a href="http://www.tribo.org/textiles/pinya.html">pinya</a> shirts and dresses represent Filipino identity for many. I would recommend looking at this <a href="http://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/tag/philippine-embroidery/">post</a> by <a href="http://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/">Traveler on Foot</a> for some beautiful examples and a great description of the work involved in this amazing craft. You can also look through this <a href="http://www.memphisinmay.org/assets/1680/philippine-traditional-costumes.pdf">pdf</a> on traditional outfits if you like. Much of my family have chosen to use barongs for the men in our weddings; beautiful artisanship and so much less stuffy than the Western tuxedo!<br />
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For my part, here are some pictures of my grandmother and grandfather (apologies for the small scans; I got them from my grandmother's Facebook page, so I can't really get better resolution):<br />
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Below, my grandparents were demonstrating tinikling (a dance involving hopping around two clapping pieces of bamboo). You can see (barely) some traditional Filipino outfits for these dances. I really do love the plaids you find for <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=patadyong&hl=en&rlz=1I7ADRA_en&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=H6RkT_TwFcfc0QGQ_vH9Bw&ved=0CDsQsAQ&biw=1440&bih=703#hl=en&rlz=1I7ADRA_en&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=patadyong+plaid&oq=patadyong+plaid&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=3&gs_upl=10875l11922l0l12032l6l6l0l5l5l0l63l63l1l1l0&gs_l=img.3...10875l11922l0l12032l6l6l0l5l5l0l63l63l1l1l0.frgbld.&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=4791d2c61bb222fb&biw=1440&bih=703">patadyongs</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCyLsPoF_zZg38qIO01YbzLDinOU_ejiFykATjAUJkGistmsHyXkxLyHTEONp11FBsInpm73Y5Im6F7hR0Froq62XOu817trsnyt8rnqw2MMZctrwJ_-IMthPxV_fF3ZX5Ki7/s1600/tinikling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCyLsPoF_zZg38qIO01YbzLDinOU_ejiFykATjAUJkGistmsHyXkxLyHTEONp11FBsInpm73Y5Im6F7hR0Froq62XOu817trsnyt8rnqw2MMZctrwJ_-IMthPxV_fF3ZX5Ki7/s1600/tinikling.jpg" /></a></div>
This one below is of their wedding day; my grandmother was donated this dress by a model from a recent Filipino fashion show in DC to use for the ceremony. My grandparents eloped, so my grandmother did not have the luxury of getting her own dress.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1lE8k3PhfaKNNNq6G4RQ1Iz2R17CzGh5kbfmdfMMaqpI0FXBKUDNiPTEEtRpbGcPIIr0WLCpQ8UDtJo9FKrx3KpqTifsES3zuC_fZgQ8q-fYsM_GXClDzXn4UYibZAceJrZ8/s1600/oapapa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1lE8k3PhfaKNNNq6G4RQ1Iz2R17CzGh5kbfmdfMMaqpI0FXBKUDNiPTEEtRpbGcPIIr0WLCpQ8UDtJo9FKrx3KpqTifsES3zuC_fZgQ8q-fYsM_GXClDzXn4UYibZAceJrZ8/s1600/oapapa.jpg" /></a></div>
The photo is small, but you may be able to see the wings of the sleeves, often seen in traditional Filipino wedding dresses. Another example is my mom's dress: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZxsnHv96JCaBszqIlsYkNLSRYR5TKPHBb5kBGzjUZh1dTnGZ0EBj5_GM3P-PAASY8xlt-zugtTDouFhBGBsiWKQkbzJTNChb3FmYUDLNoQDBWTksCLADMVdG9efEpgrLv1La/s1600/mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZxsnHv96JCaBszqIlsYkNLSRYR5TKPHBb5kBGzjUZh1dTnGZ0EBj5_GM3P-PAASY8xlt-zugtTDouFhBGBsiWKQkbzJTNChb3FmYUDLNoQDBWTksCLADMVdG9efEpgrLv1La/s1600/mom.jpg" /></a></div>
I wouldn't describe either of these dresses as strictly traditional, but they exhibit some aesthetics very much in line with Filipino tradition.<br />
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So, today I wish my Oa (Lola) a happy birthday! Maayong pagsaulog sa adlaw nga natawhan! (I don't speak Ilonggo Visayan, so I had to pull this from online, and it's Cebuano Visayan... *sigh*)seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14990624.post-75957936547957891042012-03-17T12:58:00.003-05:002012-03-17T12:58:52.102-05:00Another Award!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmQfX405-e0/T2HTGswdMWI/AAAAAAAAD9c/cvYvKUd-BMw/s1600/versatile-blogger-icon-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VmQfX405-e0/T2HTGswdMWI/AAAAAAAAD9c/cvYvKUd-BMw/s1600/versatile-blogger-icon-1.jpg" /></a></div>
Neeno from <a href="http://www.sewmelove.com/">Sew Me Love</a> nominated me for <a href="http://www.sewmelove.com/2012/03/what-exciting-week-two-blog-awards.html">The Versatile Blogger award</a>! Cool! Thanks, Neeno!<br />
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I feel a little sheepish by only doing this award halfway (such a rule breaker!), but I am not sure I could really thoughtfully name 15 blogs that meet the criteria. Don't get me wrong. There are MANY excellent blogs that are both versatile and entertaining. But I don't know that I could narrow it down to just 15.<br />
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But, I will certainly go with the rest of the aspects of the award:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Here are the rules:</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span><br />
<ol style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 16px; line-height: 18px;">
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Add the badge to the winning blog page.</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank the blogger who gave it. </span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">List the rules.</span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">List seven (7) random facts about yourself. </span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pass on the award to fifteen (15) deserving and conscientious bloggers who are nominated for their diligence, demonstrated skill, and achievements in the world of blogging and specifically in the sewing related category. </span></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.25em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Contact the nominated bloggers and let them know they are recipients.</span></li>
</ol>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Seven Random Facts About Me</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">1. I am currently in the middle of making a muddled attempt of a refashion from some St. Paddy's Day t-shirts.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">2. I really am quite smitten with bugs and other small creepy crawlies. I was once given an earthworm as a present in college, and was happy for the whole week.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">3. I am from a large family: 3 girls and 6 boys</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">4. I am taking a course in meditation and failing miserably at making enough time to meditate every day (the goal is currently two 20 minute sessions).</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">5. I am an avid fan of podcasts that tell stories or feed the geek in me. Examples: <a href="http://themoth.org/">The Moth</a>, <a href="http://www.selectedshorts.org/">Selected Shorts</a>, <a href="http://storycollider.org/">Story Collider</a>, <a href="http://www.waywordradio.org/">A Way with Words</a>, <a href="http://indianapublicmedia.org/amomentofscience/">A Moment in Science</a>, <a href="http://blogs.howstuffworks.com/category/brainstuff/">Brainstuff</a> and the other <a href="http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/hsw-shows/hsw-podcast.htm">How Stuff Works podcasts</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">6. I have no ability to watch a TV series to the end unless it's a science show. <a href="http://www.davidattenborough.co.uk/">David Attenborough</a> always gets my undivided attention.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Puritan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;">7. If you were to hide something from me, the top of the refrigerator would be the best place. I never see it, so never know what's actually up there.</span></span></div>seekshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09768364078866351164noreply@blogger.com0