sew? i knit!

View from here

2011-11-05T20:32:00.001-07:00

View from here, a photo by martianknit on Flickr.

View from here

Farewell

2009-07-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who's participated in this group. I hope it was a great experience for you. The blog will stay up (but comments closed) so that others may find ideas and inspirations from all your projects.

Happy sewing and knitting!

Time to say goodbye

2009-06-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Sew? I Knit!ers..

I'm sad to say that I will no longer be hosting Sew? I Knit! If you are interested in keeping it going, please email sewiknit@gmail.com by June 30. Thanks for your participation. I hope you've received a lot of inspiration and learned a lot from each other.

yaiAnn

Better each day

2008-07-05T07:35:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a good day. We even went to a 4th of July party for a little while. I've caught a terrible cold and I haven't had a cold in years. I'm sure my immune system has been greatly compromised with the stress and the surgery. I can do anything I feel like doing today, but I know I'm not up to driving. I tire too easily.

I'm spending the day knitting and spinning. I did take a very short, very slow walk around the block. Enough exercise for today.

Cute!

2008-07-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

Well, this isn't exactly a repurposed item, but it's sewn & knit, so I think perfect to share (mod, feel free to delete if you disagree!). I just finished Kathryn Ivy's Summerlin, you knit a bodice then sew a skirt to it and it is BEYOND cute! I made this for my best friends daughter. I can't wait to get a picture of her in it!

There are more details on my Rav page here, or on my blog!

Carly

Pimp My Ironing Board

2008-04-07T08:11:00.000-07:00

I had some material sitting around for about 3 years with no idea what to do with it. So - I chose the repurposing project as a chance to update my ironing board. My camera acted up so I don't have a before picture but the original cover was gross. I have had that cover for almost 8 years. The pad still works great, so that is why I opted to cover it with new material. I didn't have to spend $30.00 to replace it and I got the chance to use material that was taking up space in my fabric stash. Here is the final product:

More on my craft blog!!

Something old, something new....

2008-03-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

I believe this started life as a curtain panel from Ikea. I saw it and knew it had to be an A-Line skirt. I used the book "Sew What! Skirts". Both skirts are the basic A-Line from the beginning of the book.

Curtain skirt

Easter skirt, new fabric from Walmart.

Thanks for looking. :)

The Hat Pattern

2008-03-17T03:14:00.001-07:00

Since I had two requests for the hat pattern in the last post, I thought I should give the link in a seperate post. Hope you all enjoy making it as much as I did. http://otsukaya.co.jp/TeduBigI0508.htm
And let me know if you need help with this. I have the pattern drafted already so if you prefer that, then contact me through my blog and I will be happy to post it with a tutorial if need be (yes, I want to make another one).

My Refashioning

2008-03-15T09:03:00.001-07:00

I started with a dress that I found at the thrift store but I took it apart before I photographed it as is. It was a plus size dress that I could have altered but instead..........

I decided on accessories. I made the hat from a Japanese pattern that I found accidentally one day (email me if you like it and I will try to send a PDF or find the direct link to the page with the pattern. The site I found it on is in Japanese and was hard to navigate unless you read Kanji). The purse is my own take on the clutch bag you can find in the Quick Stuff to Sew Spring issue. I liked the original pattern but I like my bags to stand up on their own so I did some top stitching along the bottom and sides as well as sewed in the corners to give it shape and believe it or not, used tulle instead of interfacing to get the stiffness. It stands nice and tall now.
I have enough fabric left over to cover a pair of flip flops but flip flops haven't hit the stores yet around here. After that, all I will need is a white framed pair of Jackie O sunglasses and I will be good to go.

Another repurposing...

2008-03-13T09:18:00.001-07:00

These were made out of a sheet. :) They don't look as wonky on me as they do on the hanger. I love them!

Thanks for looking!

Some random sewn things...

2008-03-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

Howdy!

I've been doing a bit of sewing lately. Most of it is new things, but I do have a repurposed project *almost* finished (just needs a hem!). I thought I'd share some of my things...

My first knitting project bag:
Since finishing it I decided to turn it inside out (the lining is a cool camo with skulls) and add a different string with a cord stop.

Another knitting project bag:

An apron:

And a messenger bag to carry my laptop. :)

Thanks for looking!

~barb

ChildsOvenMitt

2008-02-05T06:26:00.001-08:00

ChildsOvenMitt
Originally uploaded by butterflyjones03

Ooops, wanted to add this one as well.
These are the adult pair.
One thing though - I made these with polyester batting. Bad idea.
the childs mitts I made with cotton batting. Came out sturdy and warm.
I would even double up on the batting for the front and back piece.
Great quick project and a great way to practice quilting.
Vanessa

ChildsOvenMitt1

2008-02-05T06:24:00.001-08:00

ChildsOvenMitt1
Originally uploaded by butterflyjones03

Here are my Oven mitts for a child - my boys to be exact. They are 11 and 12 years old - so when they need to hold onto a pot or move the teapot from the burner - they can now use mitts that actually fit them. Great tutorial: http://www.thelongestyear.typepad.com
Vanessa Upstate NY

First piece ever

2008-01-31T02:19:00.001-08:00

Hi!
This is my very first posting here, and my first refashion project. I am not sure if I do it right, but I am willing to learn. And please excuse my english.

Because I felt in love with that refashion idea, I am collecting old garments now, and try to make them fresh and pretty.
First piece I saw was an old nightgown, my mother gave me years ago for a week I had to spend in hospital. I never wear such ugly gown, and I wanted to put it in the waste bin.
But then I read about refashion, and I saved it for later use. It was my first try with refashioning, but I think it should be "make 1 new garments from 2 old", right?
This nightgown was worn out, the seams damaged and no shape at all. First I put it into the washing machine with some fabric dye, for that purple touch. Then I bought a bit of blue rubberband and bias satin ribbon. The rubberband now gives the gown a new shape.
The satin ribbon was sewn on the neckline, and to the edge of the sleeves. And I put some ribbon to the lower seam line for an additional festive touch.
I hope I used the correct sewing terms, if not, please correct me.
The pictures are bad, sorry for that, I actually have to use a very old digital camera.

This is the gown "before" the alterations:

And here you can see my -tadaaaa!- "new" nightgown. For a few bucks.

My first sewing piece

2008-01-30T18:33:00.001-08:00

I am happy and glad that i have overcome the fear in handling a sewing machine. This is my first sewing piece, a 11" by 11" table mat.

Cheers, Jackie

First project of 2008

2008-01-25T09:08:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

I'm Barb! I joined way back in the beginning but never really posted. :) I decided that in 2008 I am going to get better acquainted with my sewing machine and make things. :)

These sleep shorts started life as a flannel sheet. :) I like them much better this way! :) I think I'm going to try to make some longer pants too, and probably a top. :)

Thanks for looking!

~barb

First Project of 2008: Refashioning!

2008-01-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Anyone else guilty of getting bogged down by the holidays and not being able to finish their holiday attire besides me? No worries. Let's put that behind us and start fresh for 2008!

This next project starts today, January 15, and ends April 15. Being that it's so close to Earth Day, I thought it would be a great way for us to practice being green by refashioning! This project is all about taking something you no longer need/use/like anymore and turning it into something new and fabulous. There are no rules as to what finished product must be. The only restriction is that you turn something old into something new! Simple, yes?

Let's get sewing!

McCall’s 3979 Vintage Aprons

2007-12-15T11:20:00.002-08:00

This is my first time uploading to sew i knit but definitely not the last. Although I can't participate in the holiday party challenge due to Christmas Crafting, I figured I would show you what I HAVE been up too for the holidays.

This was definitely my piece de resistance in apron making. I have loved this pattern since I saw it made in black and white oil cloth material. I had yet to make it since, although I love aprons, I have very little use for them. So when my friend asked me for aprons I knew this one would be topping the list.

You can check out my blog post for more pictures and details.

Merry Christmas!!!

my first holiday dress!

2007-11-26T19:44:00.001-08:00

Some friends had a "Thanks for Nothing" leftovers party on Saturday, and I wore my new dress. Woo hoo!

I used Cyndi's awesome invisible zipper tutorial to install my first invisible zipper (thanks Cyndi!).

I couldn't get the plastic invisible zipper foot to work on my machine -- instead, it turns out that on [some? most? all?] Viking machines, the buttonhole foot has grooves for installing invisible zippers. (So if anyone wants a little Coates plastic invisible zipper foot set, let me know!)

This was also my first lined garment. Basically, I just made a second dress exactly like the first. I made it slightly shorter, in a lightweight silk fabric, and attached it at the neck, zipper, and armholes.

fabric: Purple Honeycomb (Echino, by Etsuko Furuya), from Superbuzzy
lining: green silk + cotton scraps
pattern: improvised, with inspiration from Simplicity 3744

More pictures and details on my blog.

"The Comeback Project": The Holiday Party

2007-11-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Let's get right into it shall we? The official Sew? I Knit! "Comeback Project" is The Holiday Party! Since the holiday season is already upon us, why not incorporate some sewing. From November 15 to January 15, we'll be focusing on sewing garments to wear to various holiday festivities and celebrations. The projects can range from something as fancy as a gown for your company holiday party to something more casual for your family get-togethers or a fun and flirty dress for New Years. Whatever the garment is, it has to be worn over the holidays. I hope you all are excited about this as I am.

It's time to hit those pattern books and shuffle through the pattern stash. Let's get ready to sew!

Hello!

2007-11-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say hello and I'm super excited to join y'all. I just had my birthday and got a lot of the 'basics' I need to REALLY work on my sewing (I've had a machine since April and have made a pillowcase, a pair of PJ pants and a jersey T-shirt. . . . all in a class). You can see my haul of goodies here. Yay for re-energizing!!

Carly

Important Sew? I Knit! Annoucement

2007-11-05T20:10:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow Sew? I Knit-ers!

We would like to apologize for the unanticipated absence and lack of activity for the sewalong. Mari, Stephanie and I have been extremely busy over the past months with life in general. We know you know how that goes and hope you understand.

There will be some changes happening here at Sew? I Knit! Unfortunately because life happens, Mari and Stephanie will no longer be co-hosting. I'd like to thank them for all the time and effort in creating and helping maintain this sewalong. The good news is that the sewalong will go on, but with a few modifications.

Revolving sign-ups: New and prospective members no longer have to wait for a new project to start in order to sign up
Quarterly projects: Each project will have 3 month time frame. No more worries about rushing to finish your project

And without further ado, the next project, the official "Sew? I Knit Comeback" project, will be announced on Friday, November 9th! This next project will have a two month time frame. The Quarterly Project cycle will begin in the new year.

Until then, have a great week everyone!

2007-09-28T05:43:00.000-07:00

Is this group on hiatus? defunct? Are the kind hostesses gone?

The Silk Dress

2007-08-25T20:24:00.001-07:00

Or what I sewed this summer.

It is Chinese Brocade Silk and just yummy to wear. I spent the time to alter the pattern so that it actually fit me properly.

I wore it at the one wedding I attended this summer.
The fabric close up.

Blogiversary Contest:

2007-08-09T07:16:00.003-07:00

I enjoy looking at everyone's posts and although I haven't been active with posting of late I am a VERY active lurker.

I wanted to let you know about my blogiversary contest which ends tonight. Please pop over and leave a comment for a chance to win.

www.ignoremeitseasier.blogspot.com

Thanks,
AmyDe

Testimonial

2007-07-30T06:27:00.002-07:00

I started with Sew? I Knit back when it was a bunch of knitters making a skirt. I hadn't sewn anything (apart from quilting) in a long time, and the support of my fellow adventuresome knitters helped me make a skirt, a handbag, a top... In fact, I realized that since I was sewing something every month I could sew a whole wardrobe, and I moved on from this to Sewing With a Plan. If you'd like to join the SWAPalong 2007, you can go here to do so.
We haven't had a challenge here in a while, but I will always be grateful to the hostesses for getting me on the right track with my sewing. Thanks!

Secret Dragon Bag

2007-07-17T15:53:00.000-07:00

Alright, this was a bag I made a week ago as a surprise for a past swap. I know she's not on this list so I can share the bag pictures. It's been hard to not blog this bag, maybe this will bring relief esspecially since it won't be in the mail until tomorrow!

The dragon bag will be used to cart around small knitting projects like socks. For me a useful knitting bag should be big enough to carry a bottle of water, a knitting pattern, and notions.

The bag handles are celtic knot strips which look remarkably like a cable pattern. Side pockets for cell phone and seperates.

Dragon and quilting detail.

Sock Knitting Bag

2007-07-17T14:39:00.002-07:00

Here's a sock knitting bag I made for my pal in the Hogwarts Sock Swap. There's a wonderful online tutorial for this zippered bag.

-Stacy at Flyin' Needles

a small knitbag

2007-06-24T02:17:00.001-07:00

This was a very quick and easy sewed knitbag for small knits.

I found this cute old apron in a second hand store and the buttons are reused too- I think the color fits the bag very precisely and has started using the bag. I know I could have lined it- but I wanted a fast result and got that :-)

sewing greetings from Ellen

Blog Contest

2007-05-30T06:51:00.004-07:00

Hi guys! I've been slack lately, but love seeing all your stuff. Summer is a BIG sewing time at my house and I am looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.

I'm having a contest over on my blog and he prize is a sewn sock knitting tote. Come check it out and enter to win!

Ignore Me It's Easier

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Floppy Summer Totebag Tutorial

2007-05-21T20:31:00.001-07:00

I just cooked up a bunch of totebags out of summery dishtowels and I put up a tutorial on my blog www.whatsthatgonnabe.blogspot.com.

Get ready to carry that knitting to the beach in style! Have fun!

a pincushion

2007-05-14T05:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a patchwork pincushion that fits perfect into my toolpurse in my knitbag.
First from the inside:

and from the outside where i decorated with pearls....

I found the pattern in a danish patchworkbook which i don't remember the name of anymore..

http://www.creativesparetime.blogspot.com

Rare poster

2007-05-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I rarely post because it takes me so long to get anything done that I usually don't make the deadlines. But here I am ahead, because I just finished this bag. Its from Amy Butler's new sewing book. The pattern was challenging, but easy to follow with lots of directions. I actually used a quilt top that I bought at a flea market. I love the rectangular shape and it holds knitting projects easily. Its lined, but I won't show a picture of that part - its not great (but it works).

Connie

2007-04-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Here's my new knitting bag -- you can never have too many knitting bags, can you?
It is an ordinary toile-print canvas tote made un-ordinary with feather trim and blank wooden tiles decoupaged with images from vintage sheet music. The idea was based on a bag in The Impatient Beader Gets Inspired.

New project!

2007-03-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

For the next project, we decided to return to the original idea of this sewalong - knitters who wanted to sew. What are the things that knitters really want to sew? Knitting gear, of course! Get out your fabric and thread and figure out what you need to make your knitting life easier. Needle holders? A zippered pouch to carry your notions? That sock project bag you've been meaning to make so you can throw away that grocery bag? (raising hand)

This project will last from April 1 to May 31. If anyone finds any good tutorials or ideas, please post them! If you would like to join in, send in an email by April 8.

Happy sewing!

2007-03-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Since there has not been a new assignment posted, I am sneaking this kitchen item in. This apron is intended to add to the French air of my kitchen, begun with the hot mitt below. McCall's 3979 is the pattern.
This apron is constructed oddly -- you sew the pieces wrong sides together and then encase them with bias tape. It makes for fiddly construction, but when you're through at the sewing machine, you're finished -- no hems.
This pattern gave me an opportunity to practice princess seams and topstitching in a relatively nonthreatening context. I mean, I'm going to cook in this, wipe my hands on it, lean against counters covered with cleaning supplies... how bad can I feel about poor-quality topstiching?
Next time, I'll do better.
I have put it out in the garden to add to the insouciant charm of the whole thing.

I also intend to make a quilted table runner using these Provencal fabrics, but there is no way I will finish it in time to sneak it in to this month's Sew? I Knit!
I am therefore just offering you a photo of the fabrics. These are from Keepsake Quilting -- the French Garden medley and the Country Hen medley.

My plan is to make a patchwork runner (I realize that this is not very French, but I understand that American-style patchwork has become popular in France lately) and then applique it with flowers. Further insouciance there.

With sufficient wine and garlic, this should transform my kitchen into a South-of-France haven of joie-de-vivre. And, yes, insouciance.

2007-02-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

I have a successful oven mitt. This is from an out of print Ondori book.

You can read details at my blog here. I hope to make more kitchen items, as my kitchen is in need of an update, but this is a good start.

repentance and good intentions

2007-01-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

I did sew Christmas presents, and you can see my omiyage here at my blog, and the table runner I made as well, if you care to go back a couple of pages there. But the fact is that I didn't ever get around to posting here and I am sorry about that. I intend to do better with the current challenge. My kitchen linens are aged and shabby, and I look forward to replacing them with something pretty. I am thinking about Provence, sunshine, quilts of blue and sun-drenched yellow, rose-petal hues... Anything but the dreary winter outside. Off to search for suitable fabric.

Great - i have a list already!

2007-01-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

I love this idea. I just made coasters for a friend. I posted about it on my blog. My partner loved them so much and requested i make some for ourselves. I think that counts for the 'kitchen/cooking' things.

I also am making an apron (for the Tie One On group) so i'll add some pot holders to that project so that i can truly make it a S?iK! project!

LUCKY GIRL

2007-01-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here I'm! still alive!!! but I haven't finnished my christmas proyect (shame for me). No problem, I think it matches with the new theme: Let's Get Cooking, because I was doing a xmas apron with its oven mitts, so I guess I have some extra-time to get it ready!!! lucky lazy girl!!!

Lolita Blahnik from Viento del este, viento del oeste

Naked kitchen...

2007-01-19T23:41:00.000-08:00

This presents so many possibilities for me. I need a table runner, apron, maybe even some cafe curtains. I am very excited about this SAL.

Hooray for Kitchens!

2007-01-17T13:45:00.000-08:00

I'm excited about this theme. I have been wanting to sew and embroider a curtain for our kitchen window, and my potholders are mighty shabby...I could certainly whip up a few new ones. And an apron! I need two--a cute one for cooking (the cooking isn't that great, so I need to look as cute as possible while I do it to distract my fiance!), and a sturdy one for pottery. A look through my fabric stash is in order, I would say.

Yippee!

2007-01-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

I saw an Apron pattern I wanted to make! Perfect timing

one more reason to get off my lazy

2007-01-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

sewing bottom! this sounds awesome! thanks for counting me in! I am contemplating the fabric I will use right now. and this invite also got me off my lazy blogging bottom to start a new blog. Thanks!

Sounds great!

2007-01-15T20:23:00.000-08:00

I have some great & funky fabric & a vintage apron pattern that is crying out to be used, and now I have a very good reaon to get off my butt & make it!!

Next Project: Let's Get Cooking!

2007-01-15T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow Sew I Knitters! The next project is titled, "Let's Get Cooking." The theme for this project is to sew anything cooking or kitchen related. In need of a new apron, or oven mitts? Now's your chance. Dining accessories looking a little outdated? Sew up a new table runner, placemats and napkins. Anything is game as long as it's related to cooking, eating or the kitchen. We're now on two month rotations for each project, so this one goes til March 15.

Happy Sewing!

New sewing book.

2007-01-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

Hurray! Thank you, lovely hostesses, for announcing that the newest sewing challenge is nigh. In the meanwhile, I got the best book for Christmas, and thought that the Sew? I Knit-ers might be interested.

Sew What! Skirts: 16 Simple Styles You Can Make With Fabulous Fabrics shows you how to draft your own patterns for a simple A-line and a straight skirt, then gives you oodles of different variations so that you never have to make the same skirt twice! For those that cling to their patterns like a life raft (that would be myself included), this book promises to set us free.

Are You Ready?

2007-01-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

Hi There!
We are amazed and impressed by all of the wonderful things you all have done for the holidays. But, now that the holidays are over it's time for a new project. It seemed like the 2 month rotation worked really well, so we're going to stick to that for now. The new project will be announced Monday, January 15th and will run until March 15th. Get those machines oiled and the scissors sharpened because we hope you will be as excited about the next project as we are. Have a great weekend and we'll see you back here on Monday.

Christmas pressies for my 2 year old niece

2007-01-09T15:07:00.000-08:00

Sorry I didn't get to post my Christmas to do list beforehand... but here for the record is my Christmas production that went to my domestic godesss two year old niece. I made the patterns up as I went along and the wee oven gloves were my first quilting project.

I can't take the credit for these little fish finger puppets - they were bought from my local IKEA. I did though make the bag featuring the sticky red star-fish motif.

HAPPY NEW YEAR - look forward to participating in sew i knit in 2007
Lx

Christmas Sewing!

2007-01-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

I made my sister-in-law a nice big etched velvet shawl to go with a felted purse I made. She loved it!

The flower on the purse is made from shawl fabric and felt. I got the pattern from Threads magazine.

I got a job in a fabric store! Sew...I guess I'll be doing more sewing this year!

Patchwork pillow

2007-01-01T22:09:00.000-08:00

Hi all...just wanted to share some pictures of this patchwork pillow I recently completed and gifted to my boyfriend's cousin (who has a fantastic eye for interior design and is the type of person who would appreciate something handmade and one of a kind).

I cut a bunch of my scraps into strips and sewed, sewed, sewed away. I'm pleased with the results and happy that I am making more time to sew (in addition to just knitting)

All Done!

2006-12-30T07:57:00.001-08:00

Well, i did it, and in the nick of time. I celebrate Christmas four times - once with my honey at home before we go home to our parents' places, once with my family, once with his, and again with his extended family. Then, on January 7, i celebrate Orthodox Christmas too! At least there we don't exchange gifts, so i didn't have too too many to make!

I ended up making something for all 20 people on my list. Some things were small like transfer images on cloth hankies, while others were larger projects like 6 placemats. All in all, each person/cat/dog got an individualized gift and i think are quite happy with it.

I wrote about it on my blog, and have pictures on flickr, but i think it's the inspiration of this group that helped me kick it in gear!

And, luckily for me, my sister also made me gifts too - she made me a lavendar/flax seed massage pouch and a fabulous purse! Thanks sis!

Happy Holidays everyone!

Holiday Sewing Done

2006-12-27T16:39:00.000-08:00

Actually, I finished before the holidays, but I didn't want to post pictures on the net before my recipients received their sewn gifts. The first picture is of the oven pad that I made for my Texas granny. It is sewn from some fabric that I got in Colorado on a recent vacation. It is an interesting design. It is like two hot pads connected by a padded section.

This picture is of two hot pads and three tea towels. I made these for my mom from some fabric that I picked up on the Big Island of Hawaii on recent trip there. She used to live in Hawaii and loves all thing Hawaiian. She loved these as well.

I also made three tea towels for my Kansas granny. These are made from vintage reproduction fabrics. She loves blue.

These three projects were made from a pattern that I ordered on-line. If you are interested, it is called Vintage Potluck.

They were pretty easy projects to make, although the pattern didn't give real detailed instructions and probably isn't suitable for someone's very first project.

I had a lot of fun making them and I always say that I am going to start earlier every year, but I never do. Maybe we should do Christmas sewing in July!

UPDATE

2006-12-20T11:10:00.000-08:00

Remember my LIST? Thanks for all your cheering and well wishing - I'm almost finished and wanted to share a few pictures with you.

These are just a few of the things from the list - the rest are already wrapped (before pics - oops!). More info on the blog!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe
Etsy

My knitted gifts

2006-12-16T17:29:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my gifts for those I like and love. The Pink Princess handbag is drying from felting, then you have the Black Beanie and the Stacey Hat and Scarf Set. Hope the reciepents are happy with thier gifts.

a knitter's gift

2006-12-12T13:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a total knock-off of an admittedly fabulous sock bag. My friend uses long metal needles for making her socks and requested one tall enough for them not to stick out. So, I modified the "stuff bag" by Mary Mulari. It is rip-stop nylon, I made it larger in diameter, taller, reinforced the bottom, added the strap for the yarn guide on the inside and wrist on the outside (sewn into/thru the seam.) I used the snaps that you hammer on, I like them better than the sewn on kind. I am so excited, I hope she loves it!!

Christmas trees

2006-12-11T21:01:00.001-08:00

I spent today making some little Christmas trees to give out at a Sorority Christmas dinner. I started a little production line in the morning and by this evening I had 8 completed trees! Fun and quick. Come over to my blog to see more info!

Coming Along Nicely

2006-12-11T04:53:00.000-08:00

With the assumption that the recipients of my gifts will not find this particular blog, i wanted to share with you my progress. About 80% of the gifts i had planned to make are completed and waiting to be wrapped. I just have to finish knitting a shawl, do some transfer work on some hankies, make some soaps and dog biscuits, and also see what is on some of my family's wish list so i know if i could make anything for them. So, i think i'm coming along rather nicely. Unfortunately for my partner, i can't really make his presents because he's around when i'm crafting. I'll have to try to sneak around him!

Already finished are:
1) Two tea pot cozies (one is pictured here)

2) Six placemats

3) Cat tunnel

4) Baby bloomers (for our nephew, who's dad Loves Star Wars)

5) Knit Scarf

6) Hot Plates and Oven Mitts

7) Table Runner (pictured folded to fit frame)

8) Sock Monkey

Back to the grind i go!

The LIST...

2006-12-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

Who's feeling overwhelmed by their LIST of things to make for Christmas/Holidays? Want to feel better? Check out my list and please lend your support - I'm going to need it because I am entirely CRAZY!!!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe
ESTY (out of time? BUY something handmade!)

Summer Skirt

2006-12-06T00:49:00.000-08:00

Here in Australia it is Summer and all the women who aren't wearing 3/4 pants are wearing gorgeous floral skirts. I have bought a few but I thought I would try my hand at making one myself and I am very proud of my effort.

The pattern: Butterick Fast & Easy B4519. The only adjustments I made to it was to increase the top-stitching of the pleats a little further than recommended, and of course the length, by about 12 inches - the skirt finishes just below the knee. I didn't realise how short it was when I bought the pattern but if I made it exactly it would be a mini skirt.

Surviving the Holidays

2006-11-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

Eldest finished up another session of Floor Hockey last week.
Here he is as center in the red.

He sure loves to play. I don't think that it is hockey so much as running around with a stick, but whatever.

Happy belated Turkey Day.
I begged off the turkey this year.
1. I don't like turkey
2. The expected company canceled.
3. 12 pounds of turkey is too much for 5 people, 2 of which won't eat any anyway.

So I made a chicken.

You can see here what the Mister and his Mom worked on after the feast. It must have been another discounted puzzle, it ended up a couple shy of 550. Or it could have been INBA feeling short of attention and running his hand across the table and sending pieces flying. One cannot be sure. Oh, yes, that is pea pod with a pod top. Oh, Yes, the pea has arrived... more later.

One may as well go on and on about the holidays.. here is the intended for the niece.
I must admit, I am very proud of the Sven.
I have since finished it. I am not so keen on the invisible cast on for the sleeve... not really seeing the benefit of that. Quite a pain, it was, to knit that little cuff onto a whole sweater that I had to turn so frequently. Maybe that is just me.

So much for Clandestine
The Mister, so happy to be playing with new picture software that came with my lovely new printer... uploaded my pictures and gave the MIL a slide show... including the sock that I am making for her. Oh, please, he knew it was for her. Oh, please, don't even act like it was my fault for taking the pic in the first place. Whatever. The point is, she never looks at my blog and now she is expecting these socks(on the right,) which I must say I want to keep for myself. The other sock is my newest sparkly sock (schoeller & stahl, Fortissima Colori Socka Color Disco, #9051.) I have not cast on the second because I needed to use the US2s for INBA's red socks... the things I do for my children.
I have cast on MIL's other sock, so she will indeed get a pair... but I just have such a hard time giving away my socks. I guess maybe I need to make ugly socks for gifts. But then I won't enjoy making them. I just don't know how to resolve this.
Cheesy Holiday
So I am part of the Newcomer's Club for the place that I now live. And at some weak moment I agreed to be on the board of said club and organize some activities. Anyway, the President decided that for our meeting next week we should have an ornament exchange. So, I made this darling little mitten. Mostly just so I could use my fair isle book. I want to keep it, too.
Can you believe how downright selfish I am?

So Go for A Walk.
I need a picture for the holiday cards. I did not make a studio appointment like I have been talking about doing for a month. Still need a picture, have to try to get one myself.

Unfortunately, this is the mood the boys were in.

"Is that a nice smile?"
"Yep."
"Never mind."

"Could you uncross your arms?"
"No, I don't want to walk anymore."
"I will stop taking pictures if you give me just one nice one."
"I want to go home."

Oh, sure they sat nice on a rocky cliff and looked at the creek way down below...

But isn't this little (9lb, 23inch) boy going to be gorgeous in a peapod?

Oh, such an angel!!! It is killing me not to be on a plane to some place warm right now!!

Congratulations!!!

A little drawstring pouch

2006-11-21T05:37:00.000-08:00

Could this be considered a Holiday Jumpstart sewing project? I made this little bag to hold a gift (actually a pair of handknitted socks) for my friend. Check out here if you're interested in the socks too.

A place to stash your stuff

2006-11-11T08:56:00.000-08:00

I found a tutorial to make these corkboard wall pockets at the Craft Apple. They are easier to make than you might suspect and quite practical. I bought a set of four corkboards so I will have four gifts when I'm finished. The only change I'd like to make is to the top--I'd like to use the slip stitch instead of the running stitch to attach the ribbon hanger to the corkboard, that way the stitches will be less visible.

holiday jumpstart on advent calendar

2006-11-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

I've been busy with this cute advent calendar made from mini stockings. I am using 8 different fabrics and different trims on each one to make it unique. My kiddos are excited about getting a treat every day from December 1-24. I will be excited to get all my ideas into finished projects!

Susie

Seasonal Table Topper

2006-11-07T12:23:00.000-08:00

Hope it is not to late to post my finished Halloween Table Topper. This is the front view. The most time consuming part was cutting out the green and purple squares and sewing them into strips for the border.

This is the back side. I used a small pumpkin print for the center and a black fabric with tiny white flowers for the border. This side I can use through Thanksgiving. I am pleased with how it all came together and fits my table nicely.

You can find me over at Alpaca Rose.

simple and sassy

2006-11-05T14:05:00.000-08:00

my sister requested a green purse for Christmas. after digging through my stash, this is what i came up with. i will be using the pattern from this sew simple magazine. what do you think?

this picture is kinda crummy. the middle and bottom fabric match the plaid perfectly.... the greens look off, but they're actually not. there is also a blue flower in the floral print that is not showing up. it's the same color of the blue stripe in the plaid.

Culinary themed gifts

2006-10-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad sew-i-knit-alonger and this is my first post here in ... months. Nobody kicked me out of the group though, so hopefully it's OK. I wanted to share a couple projects I am working on for my cousin's Christmas present. She is currently enrolled in a culinary program. I made her this apron (pattern from Amy Butler's In Stitches) and am working on matching pot holders.

This potholder is my first quilted project. Quilting is fun... I'll post again when I'm finished.

On My Way

2006-10-30T07:15:00.000-08:00

After a bit of a stump with ideas for holiday presents, i am officially on my way. I have finished a couple of small projects, but i'm excited about what is still to come. After spending the afternoon yesterday sitting by the fire and reading over my various craft books, i have decided on a few gifts. I still have more to think of, but i will wait to see people's gift lists first.

For instance, i'm going to use this beautiful silk fabric to make a tea pot cozy for my partner's grandmother.

And this awesome pre-Star Wars fabric will be made into a framed canvas art piece. My brother-in-law Loves Star Wars and just had a baby boy. I'm going to embroider his name into the fabric and then frame it.

And, i finished a yo-yo belt for my sister, as well as these cute ballerina cake topper magnets.

My other ideas include making placemats for my mom with Indian block print stencils, a felt record dog toy for my brother-in-law's dog, and a book purse for my sister. I will post again soon to share my progress!

2006-10-30T06:15:00.000-08:00

A table runner, pieced, appliqued, and quilted. While this is actually a wedding present, it is the thing I sewed this month,and took so long that it will certainly serve as a Christmas present for this couple as well.

Still finishing things up...Thanks!

2006-10-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

I'm still in gear and busy finishing things for the holidays. It's so much fun to mark items off my "LIST"

Here's what I've been working on lately:

More Embroidered Tea Towels:

And I finished the quilted bibs for my shop:

I'm so excited to get things underway! Read more at my blog!

Thanks!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

I am now organized for holiday crafts

2006-10-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

An Amy Butler pattern now has me on my way to getting all those holiday crafts & gifts done. More pics on my blog.

XMAS APRON AND MITTENS

2006-10-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

I have been sewing and knitting for one year. Last summer I found this wonderful web and I loved the idea of a sewing along. This will be my first Sew? I knit! proyect. I would like to have my own made-by-myself xmas apron for this holiday and I also plann to sew some round xmas mittens.

Lolita Blahnik from Viento del este, viento del oeste

Patchwork Bibs

2006-10-14T04:42:00.000-07:00

An idea hatched during the quilt-it challenge and only brought to fruition this week. I've actually been planning these in my head for a LONG time, - they are turning out really cute and are super fun to make. I'll have them forsale in my etsy shop as soon as they are finished (early next week).

I'm also making some of these up for my new nephew (well for his mommy) for Christmas - so I've hit two birds with one stone! Thanks! If you'd like to know more about the bibs click on my name to visit the blog.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Cheery Cherry Towel

2006-10-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

One Down and many more to go, but Christmas projects are underway. Thanks for the kick in the pants!

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Love this time of year....

2006-10-03T16:04:00.000-07:00

A "jumpstart" on the Holiday Jumpstart. I am so glad this is the theme for this round. Perfect! I try to create handmade ornaments for the five of us each year, including names and dates for our tree. A tradition I started for us when my 18 yo was first born and celebrated his first christmas. I have one last ornament to finish for my family for 2006, then on to presents and handmade cards. Happy Fall to All!

My Quilts

2006-09-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

I made two quilts. One for my living room and the other for my newest niece. I have moved my blog to wordpress but have to use my old blogger address to post to this group until I figure out how to link my new blog to SewiKnit.

My battery died while I tried to take the baby quilt pic. Will post Saturday.

Next Project: Holiday Jumpstart

2006-09-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone!

The holidays are approaching, faster than we know it. So we decided that the next round of Sew? I Knit will be "Holiday Jumpstart." Starting October 15th and ending on December 24th, the focus of Sew? I Knit will be to get all those holiday gifts and decorations done, over with and out of the way. We're all about stress minimization over here. Sign ups are from October 1st until the 15th.

A Gift is Done...

2006-09-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

I have finally finished the baby quilt I started a while back. I have finishing problems, for sure! But I think it goes a bit deeper than that. I like this little quilt so much that I hate to give it up!

So, off it goes to a deserving mother and child. I put the baby's name and birthdate on the back on a little square that I embroidered. Behind the square I put my name and the year I made it. I have also heard that quilter's put their name and the date under the binding. You would think that this would be for the future but what I heard is that there have been quilts stolen at quilt shows so now folks sign their quilts inconspicuously. Only the maker knows where it is signed. But I signed mine for the future.

I have really enjoyed seeing everyone's quilted lovelies and have been inspired by many of them. Thanks to all the sewknitters out there!

What's next?

2006-09-25T04:51:00.000-07:00

Has the next project been announced?

Better late then never

2006-09-20T02:21:00.000-07:00

I know that I'm late with my quilt but I had to wait till my placemat reaches the person I've been swapping it with, so I could not post earlier. By it finally arrived at Anna's, so I can show it to you. ^^

It's a placemat size 10 in x 8 in, made of cotton and linnen, with a tree patchwork.
I enjoyed this project and I liked all your creations! ^^

Dino Quilt

2006-09-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Funny, I seem to remember posting the last project at about 11pm on the evening of the deadline........

Anyway, I had hoped to finish this dinosaur quilt for my son this week, mainly because my daughter is now begging me to start her kitty quilt. But family events intervened and it was not to be.

But I thought I'd show the quilt top anyway, and if you are interested in it, you might check out my blog in the next week or so for progress. I had enough interested comments from a post a few weeks ago, that I decided to make up a tutorial on how I designed this from my son's artwork and translated it into fabric. So watch for that in the next couple of weeks.

Here is the finished quilt top:

You can see some detail shots on the latest entry on my blog, and if you scroll down to the bottom of the page (August 16th entry) I have a photo of my son and his original drawing.

Sunday afternoon quilt and project linus quilt

2006-09-15T01:28:00.000-07:00

On the left is my first attempt at a big quilt. It is a basic 9 patch block, each block is 4" and the whole quilt measures 52" x 62" The fabric is moda - 'faded memories' and 'memories' mixed together. It was a collaborative effort with Peter (hubbie) putting the pieces together - he has a better eye for these things. I sewed it, swore at it, hugged it etc while P provided cups of tea and sustained encouragement. It has passed the 'snuggleometre' test in our home which is wonderful. I am so pleased with her. But have learnt to plan better for the next one. I loved using the trick for the white border of using masking tape to get straight lines.
The butterfly quilt is for Project Linus - here is the link for the charity http://www.projectlinus.org/index.shtml and for Britain http://homepage.ntlworld.com/sesquialtera/newpage.htm
I won't met the S I K deadline with it but it was good to get it started. So out of the 3 ideas I set out to complete I only did one and that was the 'ladies' posted before. But I was so encouraged and that led onto making my first big quilt.So a huge thank you for the idea - it has inspired me more than I can say.

Quilted blanket for my relaxation time

2006-09-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

『Quilted Blanket』
pattern : from Machine made patchworks by Suzuko Koseki
size : 28"x38"
fabric : cotton , linen , double-gauze

I know today is deadline...so I just finished my quilted blanket.The arrangement of each piece was difficult for me and the quilting by the sewing machine took long time.I used some beautiful cotton and antique linen for top and double-gauze for back , because I think double-gauze is very softly.

I think the blanket will make me happy :>
more photo is here !!

Bags!

2006-09-14T06:26:00.000-07:00

These are some quilted bags I´ve made to take along to an autumn fair.

Until the Quilt is Done

2006-09-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

I am working hard on my hankie quilt, and all the squares are sewn together. Now i just have to do the backing and attach it all. It should be done for Sept. 15, which is so exciting because this project has been just 'sitting around' for a year now!

I went to a friend's baby shower yesterday and realized that part of the gift i gave her were a quilted project - these baby bibs i made her. Since they're quilted, so i just wanted to share! And show you that i have been busy making quilted things, just not the massive project i had planned!

Quilted Tote Bag

2006-09-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

I just finished this quilted tote bag. The leaves are machine embroidered and there is some strip piecing on the front. I have plans for another with more patchwork...I might even make the deadline! Stay tuned...

Thank You!!!

2006-09-06T08:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Susie for the post about the shop in Ringgold, GA. They are FABULOUS! The folks at Sew Be It! are so nice and have a beautiful shop. It's right off the interstate for anyone travelling btw TN and Atl - make it a point to stop by - it's worth the visit! I'm working furiously on several projects for the deadline and will have some pictures to post very soon. Please check out my blog and my etsy shop to see what else I've been working on.

I'll keep you posted!

AmyDe

Quilted bib

2006-09-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

I know I`ve been a bad bad person for not finishing my top. I was going to, really, but life interfered, I guess (I`ll save you from explanations). I feel especially bad for not checking this blog out as much as I should have - but I plan to catch up!

I did finish the current project though: a quilted baby bib for my nephew, here modeled by it`s cute-but-too-excited-to-stay-still recipient. Upset with my failure with the previous project, I didn`t want to announce I was going to make anything in time, since I wasn`t sure I was really going to make it. But I must say this was a great project! I`ve been planning to give a try to patchwork, and had fun making this. (Though sewing bias tape (my first time) was hellish, just as I suspected it would be. I´ve always known bias tape is evil.) I´ll surely be making more patchwork in the future.

See the other side of the bib and some details in my blog.

EDIT: now the link should work!

Quilted Pillow for a Red Room

2006-09-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks I have been painting and redecorating my daughter's room and I was ever aware that the sew along was coming to an end....So, I decided to use some left over silk, a bit of the curtain fabric and some left over linen like fabric to create a pillow for her room.

Ta Da! Done.

The picture does not do the colours justice unfortunately.
And so I am complete before school starts and I have no more time to sew!

The Ladies

2006-09-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Here are:
'The Ladies'.
This wall hanging measures 16"x 23.5". Each panel is 7"x11". I used black embroidery silk 3/4 strands for the main outline in running stitch and 1-2 strands for facial features and hands etc. I 'stitched in the ditch' for a better effect. I had difficulty with the facial expressions and need to get practice with that- the lady with the apron (1918) looks shocked ..can you see? I LOVED this project - the ladies had their own personalities as I embroidered their image. I love this is recording history, the images range from 1918 - 1927 The images come from the most wonderful website drawn by Pauline - http://www.fashion-era.com/C20th_costume_history/1930_silhouettes_1.htm who was so generous in allowing me the images.

I am afraid that the two other projects I listed to do fell by the wayside. I was so motivated by this little patchwork I decided to go for the big one ( I lost my confidence a while ago and put this off for about 6 years *gulp* and make a quilt for the sitting room for the colder months but with a Summery feel. I will post it in a few days and all the tears that went with it!!

A little quilted bag

2006-09-04T04:13:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Pardon me for the late introduction. I'm a knitter and a beginner at sewing. This is my first attempt at quilting, so I thought I'd start with something small. It's definitely not a quilt, but it does have a quilted element!

This is a quilted drawstring bag that I made for my daughter. The pattern is based on this tutorial for a drawstring backpack (the "Mama Backpack"), except that I didn't make it into a backpack and added a strap instead, and I added a batting between the outer fabric and the lining and quilted it. I also made the bag smaller, more toddler-sized rather than "Mama-sized".

More on my blog.

Finished Baby Quilt

2006-09-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

The Hungry Animal Baby Quilt is done and ready to be delivered to the new mom. I loved this project so much that I have two more like it lined up in the sewing basket.

If you are interested, the Hungry Animal Alphabet fabric, it can be purchased here.

So, for the next two quilts I will be using some wonderful fabric from Kaffe Fassett. These small quilts don't use a lot of fabric, so I can buy quilter's quarters in really nice fabrics and not spend a bunch of money.

Looking forward to our next sew? i knit! project!

2006-08-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

Finally I´ve managed to finish some sewing. I love the colour combination red and blue and hope to finish a bag today aswell. I´ve been knitting socks for winter and that´s been keeping me away from the sewing machine.

finished hot pad

2006-08-28T12:17:00.006-07:00

I finished my quilted hot pad. Here are a couple pictures...

More over on my blog ...here

Travelling

2006-08-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

Hi All - everyone;s work looks GREAT - the chicken quilt "cracks" me up! I am travelling soon and wanted to know of everyone's favorite quilt shops/fabric stores between Atlanta, GA and Chattanooga, TN. Thanks for your help - I can't wait to do some major shopping!

AmyDe

not exactly a quilt

2006-08-24T18:05:00.000-07:00

but here's my contribution to this months theme. I have never really considered myself a quilter. That was until I discovered Japanese craft magazines, I recently purchased this machine quilting book and thought I would try out the log cabin pillow. Being a novice I kept it simple and just did simple 1/2 inch lines. I used cotton batting and it is closed with a tied envelope back. The pillow will be a birthday gift for a friends daugther who is turning 6.

More blogged here

wip

2006-08-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

here is the beginning of my quilted project...i just cut the fabric pieces. i plan to make a quilted hot pad. i hope to finish in a couple hours. a small easy project, yes...but hard to sneak time in w/ a little baby...i have to wait until she naps...

My Hankie Quilt WIP

2006-08-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of projects on the go lately, but i recently sat down with my vintage hankies and have mapped out the format for the quilt. I also have the fabric i need for the backing, and all i have to do now is set a date with my sewing machine and zoom zoom the hankies together! And, i have solved what to do with the different sizes of hankies - i don't have the heart to cut them to size but i will be added other fabric in between squares.

All Done!

2006-08-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

The quilted wall-hanging is done! It is a gift for my daughter's friend who warned me she (the recipient) did not like blue/yellow (which I had planned to use). Instead we have bright greens, yellows and orange....and it is one bright, happy combination. I used a white/yellow striped baby cap, a pale green bib with Pooh on it, a VERY bright rattle, and little white socks with tiny giraffes on it...they even go with the giraffes in the fabric! I put four loops on top and got her a white rod and braces so they can put it in Robert's room.

My Crazy Chickens Quilt

2006-08-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Here is my Sew I Knit Project for August-September. I added ribbon to the back to hang it from the loft railing.

This chicken seems to approve.