tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38210891390097344312024-03-06T00:19:36.565-08:00DAYDREAMS AND SUNSHINEA space to share ideas, thoughts and projects that are running through my head :)Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-46992123452156914872016-03-12T09:30:00.000-08:002016-03-12T09:30:17.956-08:00Draped TopI finally got organised enough to sit down and make something from my lovely birthday present last year! The Great British Sewing Bee have a book called sew your own wardrobe and it is filled with gorgeous clothes.<br />
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I had some time this week so I sat down to make this draped top.<br />
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It looked fun and a great light top to wear in the summer.<br />
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I was gifted a voucher so I popped off to get some fabric and found this gorgeous orange printed light cotton.<br />
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All in all this pattern is quite simple to make - only 3 pieces to cut out which is always a bonus! Because of the simplistic nature of the top the seams need to be kept quite neat and it is really important to be precise in the measurements.<br />
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Anyway - this is the finished piece. I have to admit I love it and will be making a few more out of this design.<br />
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The only adjustments I would make to the pattern is to make it a little longer - this is great with high waisted things. But I would like to wear it with some lower cut jeans without showing my stomach!<br />
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Has anyone else tried anything from the sewing bee books? What should I try next???<br />
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-76811309795549178442016-03-06T09:15:00.000-08:002016-03-06T09:15:17.606-08:00Suede love and saying hiIt's been a while! I've been sticking my head in the books and also stitching away for a fabulous wedding. Here are the 3 bridesmaids in the dresses I made.<br />
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It was really a most beautiful day and the bride looked stunning.<br />
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So now I have submitted a few assignments I have returned to the sewing machine for a days chilled out sewing.<br />
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Recently I got given some suede scraps to use - for me scraps are teeny tiny bits of fabric that it is hard to decide what to make with. I guess when you start doing upholstery scraps take on a different meaning because at the end of the suede session I have 3 cushion covers and a new skirt!<br />
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It was a totally new experience for me sewing with suede - something I have never tried but I really enjoyed it. Yes it is not very forgiving - sew in the wrong place and the fabric lives to tell the tale but if you take it slow and steady it is fabulous!<br />
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I decided to make a wrap skirt done up with a button - when using a new fabric I thought I wouldn't try to tackle the zip! I didn't have a pattern so just free-handed some shapes and lay them together until I was happy. <br />
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If you want to give suede a try I would suggest getting leather needles as using them made a huge difference to the sewing experience. Other than it is much the same as usual just take it slow and steady!<br />
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So here it is ;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJ1M5csJR9SEIOeySkZktI2KVVA_0jSN2hdf9dhoY0oA5C8RbEI3zexuQJSRipZ2jEL8UY8pJ-QmthYseujd2MmhQezijcs9RkrvEUCG_JI4sKYFK9JeGohICmP5_qHsHsP-WSUerIadI/s1600/20160306_152749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YsWn33b-mLgV_rhJo0j6LKGhd3946dyoXharyHgZguiVXN_8IJk6GA8xFxRNByVijbmxPJfBFBRaAD6NZY5SzPbC-gFCeBX4emx05vy5MBkMGcW6nd-yCiSM8CM-MwEA7uETUoxtTDH_/s1600/20160306_153148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YsWn33b-mLgV_rhJo0j6LKGhd3946dyoXharyHgZguiVXN_8IJk6GA8xFxRNByVijbmxPJfBFBRaAD6NZY5SzPbC-gFCeBX4emx05vy5MBkMGcW6nd-yCiSM8CM-MwEA7uETUoxtTDH_/s320/20160306_153148.jpg" width="185" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJ1M5csJR9SEIOeySkZktI2KVVA_0jSN2hdf9dhoY0oA5C8RbEI3zexuQJSRipZ2jEL8UY8pJ-QmthYseujd2MmhQezijcs9RkrvEUCG_JI4sKYFK9JeGohICmP5_qHsHsP-WSUerIadI/s320/20160306_152749.jpg" width="146" /></div>
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It is just an all round fun skirt - good to dress up and good to dress down.<br />
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I made the top too but more on that on another post!<br />
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Hope you're all having fun sewing<br />
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-62275583454755137932015-08-31T06:37:00.000-07:002015-08-31T06:37:10.156-07:00Purple Trousers!I finally finished off my trousers! I was gifted a pattern and some fabric for my birthday and started sewing at the beginning of the summer! A couple of months later and other projects seem to have taken over so they were still sitting there. But now they are done I'm pretty pleased.<br />
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I used a vogue pattern and the trousers are quite fitted which was a first for me. Usually I go for baggy clothes to sew that have plenty of gathers of pleats which makes fitting easier. All was reasonably simple until I got to the crotch and the zip. That stage required a few unpicking sessions to break through it but I made it out the other end.<br />
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I did make it a bit more difficult for myself by using a strong and clear striped fabric. My pattern matching is far from perfect and I found myself thinking of May and Patrick on the Sewing Bee when I spotted my errors. If there was a camera in my sewing room it would have been zooming in on my mis-matching but luckily for me there isn't and overall the mistakes don't look to glaringly obvious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQm9hOYIhi50uBLeTvAVvnzpoxjF_UYtXGaHgFfNEzEaoKyNdm7b03lrntE5GYTzyi27tRqJk4by1wax6shpdXSXA4tXezzGdaK50LnWBf8qly8s3KbJo8ezqN2uojzvvGEExbPrW24fnV/s1600/2015-07-06+08.20.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQm9hOYIhi50uBLeTvAVvnzpoxjF_UYtXGaHgFfNEzEaoKyNdm7b03lrntE5GYTzyi27tRqJk4by1wax6shpdXSXA4tXezzGdaK50LnWBf8qly8s3KbJo8ezqN2uojzvvGEExbPrW24fnV/s320/2015-07-06+08.20.50.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of under stitching</td></tr>
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I learnt to do under-stitching which was a great for me and I was so happy with how easily the pockets lay flat against the trousers afterwards.<br />
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I really enjoyed following a pattern again although it did take me a little while to get into it. I have become so used to making things up myself that I had to remind myself to slow down and do things step by step.<br />
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I really like the fit and I am glad I added the extra fabric for the flare - it just gives them a little something extra and especially with the purple!<br />
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So what do you think?<br />
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I love the shape and love the fact I can add or take away from the flare. I also haven't had a pair of trousers that fits me so well in a long time. Do share your trouser makes below!<br />
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-12290552767784844742015-06-30T04:51:00.000-07:002015-06-30T04:51:00.576-07:00Having a little sort outI can be quite a chaotic person - I blame it on being vaguely creative - but my sewing room tends to become a focus for my chaos and every now and again needs a really good sort out. Having just finished a crazy long week I decided to take my days off as opportunities to hibernate and nest a little bit. So I found myself digging through all of my boxes and organizing everything. I was quite proud of my sensible head that I had on as I even managed to throw away scraps of fabric that I know I will not be able to use!<br />
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All of the organizing left me with a lovely spare room with neatly hanging fabrics and lots of space to cut out. Now that I have a dog I find myself sewing downstairs with him a lot more so even though I use the spare room as my holding room for fabric my machine is more often than not sitting on the dining room table. Inspire by my tidy room I set to work to make a cover for my machine. I wanted something that makes the machine look less abandoned when I leave it downstairs but also can hold little bits and pieces that I need when I'm sewing.<br />
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I was recently given this fab fabric which seemed perfect for a sewing machine cover!<br />
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So here it is - I didn't quilt it like some of the amazing covers you see on pinterest but for my purpose it really is good enough. </div>
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The pockets on the sides are really handy for scissors, thread, tape measure and pins - all those bits that would just lie on the table looking untidy otherwise.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RaNN3egkyeHd5vJ395_LZ9muKr_R6VpmiR5rfS32vGUSs8pWPx5CZKzbXnjNXLd99RliDeSqVgCCxiPqoFDJAB2Gmjw2FUFtcjjehVeBT0gx0G1WD80igNTnV7u1R2kgMqHv6TMlyhQ3/s1600/2015-06-30+12.29.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RaNN3egkyeHd5vJ395_LZ9muKr_R6VpmiR5rfS32vGUSs8pWPx5CZKzbXnjNXLd99RliDeSqVgCCxiPqoFDJAB2Gmjw2FUFtcjjehVeBT0gx0G1WD80igNTnV7u1R2kgMqHv6TMlyhQ3/s320/2015-06-30+12.29.52.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjK0IVHv6vu32Ml-RvIn9VKjdBRZ_45UO2H2wKbFqSVti9MzAolBcnkHvtchfsE4NRCfoTTFvfe1_dOqYYqczB2F2auS33WK2PWtlq1YNqoS-F6DM_wMzUZElf_wfzkiZGPEeJhIama0k/s1600/2015-06-30+12.40.12.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/AVvXsEgqjK0IVHv6vu32Ml-RvIn9VKjdBRZ_45UO2H2wKbFqSVti9MzAolBcnkHvtchfsE4NRCfoTTFvfe1_dOqYYqczB2F2auS33WK2PWtlq1YNqoS-F6DM_wMzUZElf_wfzkiZGPEeJhIama0k/s400/2015-06-30+12.40.12.jpg" width="225" /></a><br />
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And there you have it - much tidier and tucked away without any obvious wires or bits and pieces hanging around. <br />
I'll never be a minimalist but hopefully this will look just a little more like it belongs!<br />
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x</div>
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-1737550664254417012015-06-15T01:58:00.000-07:002015-06-15T01:58:33.912-07:00Liebster AwardWhat on earth I hear you ask? Well I have been nominated for a Liebster Award which is basically a nod from a fellow blogger to your blog. It kind of reminds me of a massive chain letter of bloggers passing on a big thumbs up to their favourite bloggers.<br />
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So this post is going to be a little less about my projects and a little more about some other bloggers that I enjoy. So thanks to <a href="https://budgetfoodmummy.wordpress.com/">Budget Food Mummy</a> for my nomination.<br />
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For a bit of fun I have to answer some questions suggested by the nominator as part of the blog post.<br />
Here goes . . .<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">Why did you start a blog?</span><br />
Because I love sewing and I love writing and I love talking - put it all together and you have a good idea of why it makes me tick!<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">What is your dream job?</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;"> </span><br />
It involves people, talking, maybe some writing - it changes regularly but I love seeing resolution - problems solved, conflicts reduced and people free to move on and live their lives - chuck some sewing in and I'm super happy.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">If you could visit any country in the world, where would you go? </span><br />
South Africa to visit friends and family<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">What is something people would be surprised to know about you? </span><div>
I actually think most people know most things about me - as I mentioned already I like talking!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">Where do you see yourself in 5 years?</span></div>
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Hmm I struggle to plan consistently for five minutes!?! With my husband and adventuring our way through life I think probably sums it up as neatly as I can when it comes to plans.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">Who is your inspiration?</span></div>
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Too many people - I have an amazing family and some awesome friends who inspire me day by day to stay strong, dream big and love with all I have.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">Top 3 films? </span></div>
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I can't choose - I like everything on different days - is this post starting to demonstrate I'm not good at being pinned down? </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">What is your most prized possession? </span></div>
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People</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">What is your favourite post you have written?</span></div>
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http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2014/02/tablecloth-skirt.html</div>
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Because I still love that skirt! </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 33px;">What advice would you give to a fellow blogger who has just started? </span></div>
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Only do it because you love it - don't watch your follower numbers too closely - use it like a journal of who you are and how you feel. Your blog has to be first and foremost for you!</div>
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Well that is quite enough questions for me to be honest! Here are some bloggers who I enjoy!</div>
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<a href="http://www.handmadebykatherine.co.uk/">Handmade by Katherine</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jenny-diy.com/">Jenny DIY</a></div>
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<a href="https://meschok.wordpress.com/">Meschok</a></div>
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<a href="https://craftycrusader.wordpress.com/">Crafty Crusader</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.livingonashoestring.net/">Living on A shoestring</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thisparticularblog.com/">This Particular Blog</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flossieteacakes.blogspot.co.uk/">Flossie Teacakes</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.weeandtwee.co.uk/">Wee and Twee</a></div>
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<a href="http://theheartyhome.blogspot.co.uk/">The Hearty Home</a></div>
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<a href="http://fancyfrugality.blogspot.co.uk/">Fancy Frugality</a></div>
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Well that's 10 - so if you fancy it carry on and nominate some of your favourite blogs as a shout out to all the work they put in. </div>
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10 questions felt a bit long for me so here are 5 for you to answer</div>
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1 - Why do you blog?</div>
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2 - Favourite Sunday afternoon pass time</div>
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3 - Dinner party meal of choice</div>
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4 - Best Crafting tip</div>
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5 - Favourite blog post</div>
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Have fun :) </div>
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-13896415863136299242015-06-12T08:21:00.000-07:002015-06-12T08:21:08.914-07:00Stitching giftsLife seems to be super busy right now! I have to admit I love it but sometimes you just need to STOP! I think sewing is the perfect thing for that!<br />
Shut away in whichever corner you choose to sew in and happily crafting and creating. And then at the end of your YOU time you have a finished product to show for it! Seriously what could be better.<br />
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Recently my projects seem to be going in bits as I just have snippets of time to work on each one. My trousers are all cut out and ready to go but no actual sewing has happened on them yet. I've done a little bit of repair on the dog bed (eeek my new puppy is super strong!) not that you would tell it from this cute pic!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8B-6yjrEpPhCicK1_qgh6l2UbvSYzYAovfp5fxxtL93VKKIdRZToYNQJYPjNLmuxWMZOjAk3cWq3gx3m7Q3xfXgEiqlZBjf-UkaUNvvwu9Y9a5bAsoTkO9PHIYfqJ7T5Ii6H9i6E00BjS/s1600/2015-05-24+20.38.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8B-6yjrEpPhCicK1_qgh6l2UbvSYzYAovfp5fxxtL93VKKIdRZToYNQJYPjNLmuxWMZOjAk3cWq3gx3m7Q3xfXgEiqlZBjf-UkaUNvvwu9Y9a5bAsoTkO9PHIYfqJ7T5Ii6H9i6E00BjS/s320/2015-05-24+20.38.56.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And finally I sat down to make someone a little thank you gift - nothing massive but something small. I used two things that I have made before but adapted them slightly.<br />
For the eye mask I followed the instructions <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/eyemask" target="_blank">here</a> but just added an extra layer in. Instead of just using two layers of fabric and a layer of felt I added in some wadding. I then quilted lines across the mask before continuing with the steps where you add the bias binding. I have to say it certainly adds a bit more luxury and comfort to the finished product.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbTfvzQ5LbGyMbsMq3EGTNZl9eUsYrKDQT_LKDWv5lNpHLBLoy-qzEMZOzJTjLt2VTStKJMKJtfjnTBTYD3JMpVKzG0A7OuIYi7xrf-jkq4S4RqH_1eLOQHru0YgtzRj5a6fWWnKb5zHz/s1600/2015-05-27+11.06.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbTfvzQ5LbGyMbsMq3EGTNZl9eUsYrKDQT_LKDWv5lNpHLBLoy-qzEMZOzJTjLt2VTStKJMKJtfjnTBTYD3JMpVKzG0A7OuIYi7xrf-jkq4S4RqH_1eLOQHru0YgtzRj5a6fWWnKb5zHz/s320/2015-05-27+11.06.24.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Then I continued to make a slightly larger scale rice warming pack than this one <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/little-gifts.html">here</a>. You follow the basic instructions that you find on that post but increase the size of the pack. Once I had added a third of the rice I stitched it into a little pocket and then repeated. Then I edged in bias binding which just finished it off neatly and gave a bit of continuity to the gift as it matches the eye mask,<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KEeJ9tCEyQp4wCP1zdI6S7NXVxB0SgmcuYLgQUGttw13UNcImokJF_81sWeSt9HGtjC_-YWJP54Yvwa6aELHiIZ_2ZgRUv63iWaAxC_bLF_gO_osINkM9sggsGA4vQnGC8C3gyXA7Xv-/s1600/2015-05-27+11.06.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KEeJ9tCEyQp4wCP1zdI6S7NXVxB0SgmcuYLgQUGttw13UNcImokJF_81sWeSt9HGtjC_-YWJP54Yvwa6aELHiIZ_2ZgRUv63iWaAxC_bLF_gO_osINkM9sggsGA4vQnGC8C3gyXA7Xv-/s320/2015-05-27+11.06.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
All in all I was pretty happy with the finished look and really enjoyed the time out I got to make it in the midst of a busy week!<br />
Let me know the projects you have been relaxing with recently too! Just share in the comments and I will pop across and check out what you have been up to!<br />
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x</div>
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-69866914514483329712015-05-29T10:03:00.000-07:002015-05-29T10:03:26.584-07:00Upcycled JeansI am a great lover of charity shops but every now and then the bargain price tag and time constraints add together to equal hasty decisions. I bought a pair of jeans over a year ago in a charity shop for about £3. I jumped at them because they were flares and I can't resist a good pair of flairs. Only problem was they were a bit short and when I washed them they got a bit shorter! So after a year of never wearing them I finally decided that skinny jeans don't have to be floor length so a bit of a conversion was in order.<br />
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So this is where I started - a fab pair of jeans but way too short for me!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcP8aqSQHqW7hJx4asLhvrHCLgl9yGwYbJx2bzN6UxvcBWLln25PNNSWmupC4fOFXqNISidJfMHWmY4cUGgwDSo9-zeOfkWP426GcwrORkT8JER18agl9Ev5rysQHxcXAO1Qd8unInIxRM/s1600/2015-05-28+15.38.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcP8aqSQHqW7hJx4asLhvrHCLgl9yGwYbJx2bzN6UxvcBWLln25PNNSWmupC4fOFXqNISidJfMHWmY4cUGgwDSo9-zeOfkWP426GcwrORkT8JER18agl9Ev5rysQHxcXAO1Qd8unInIxRM/s320/2015-05-28+15.38.34.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
I turned them inside out and unpicked the hems of each leg. This is really important as skipping this step leaves an untidy finish. <br />
Once I did that I marked out where I wanted the trouser leg to be. At this point I measured so that I took the same amount of fabric off on the inside leg of both legs and then again the outside leg of both legs.<br />
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And then comes the moment of being incredibly grateful for my overlocker. On jobs like this it makes things so simple and so much more professional but in half the time. If you don't have an overlocker you will need to use an overlock stitch on your machine. A french seam is not going to work on heavy denim and certainly not for skinny jeans.</div>
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At this point I tried them on and made a couple of adjustments. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj9sfg9U15sTsBhPC_E90iYcSNC8JE5d_RF5aQEup8mJVmV8g3CbYBNwhE5EGL0rBvO_ztV-JSOQ1pbJu1nj0kIyDR6JxQW4O9KoQZomy3pi2xIx6AElqsRGvgxO4YxBpLCu7iT5vt7ju/s1600/2015-05-28+16.02.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj9sfg9U15sTsBhPC_E90iYcSNC8JE5d_RF5aQEup8mJVmV8g3CbYBNwhE5EGL0rBvO_ztV-JSOQ1pbJu1nj0kIyDR6JxQW4O9KoQZomy3pi2xIx6AElqsRGvgxO4YxBpLCu7iT5vt7ju/s320/2015-05-28+16.02.19.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Then re-fold the hems back up exactly as they were. The denim here held the creases perfectly so not measuring required I just followed the lines that were already drawn out for me, Then I sealed off the overlocked stitch at the top of each seam.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxPBTBoI0HfKuVhvgiy3RCW5vaiAWRCcBiO6YJc6jRJ5x2ZKA5wSmm14Xui99tyBQTXW6IO7gIh4hyphenhyphenIae8dQFP9a-1f_IcWnCbtpOMlbkmYCwt0eKyr0uvpeLeYNFz03BSepXa9t27ZWd/s1600/2015-05-28+16.38.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxPBTBoI0HfKuVhvgiy3RCW5vaiAWRCcBiO6YJc6jRJ5x2ZKA5wSmm14Xui99tyBQTXW6IO7gIh4hyphenhyphenIae8dQFP9a-1f_IcWnCbtpOMlbkmYCwt0eKyr0uvpeLeYNFz03BSepXa9t27ZWd/s320/2015-05-28+16.38.45.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And there you have it a new pair of jeans that I can actually wear! Perfect with some ballet pumps . . </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYL6VXteNnJw44_GK2C8lWANxxEgVpjdf8W8KUvFNb2sBOvl4ckt4YF0Rw24CnQPML2-ONTd1YEQRom6ME9iE7t-Oz-8UX784PvFt019TciHwR5cynpo0sRhyphenhyphenxS5EBRd96bcZwWkfyqQR/s1600/2015-05-29+09.27.40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYL6VXteNnJw44_GK2C8lWANxxEgVpjdf8W8KUvFNb2sBOvl4ckt4YF0Rw24CnQPML2-ONTd1YEQRom6ME9iE7t-Oz-8UX784PvFt019TciHwR5cynpo0sRhyphenhyphenxS5EBRd96bcZwWkfyqQR/s320/2015-05-29+09.27.40.jpg" width="129" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispsE93Ppdm5D-RrkbjkXK2VWAU-VB6X2LRZM8Z10x-8_2k6GJ8_EWlkG4vBilKuavvvDeiYuilO3zMk5dp_A7z5r0iE7PYXmMb4gKzo-yTlNDCJSMefIcUBQG6Fy9j8WMj3jcHw_NJem0/s1600/2015-05-29+09.27.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispsE93Ppdm5D-RrkbjkXK2VWAU-VB6X2LRZM8Z10x-8_2k6GJ8_EWlkG4vBilKuavvvDeiYuilO3zMk5dp_A7z5r0iE7PYXmMb4gKzo-yTlNDCJSMefIcUBQG6Fy9j8WMj3jcHw_NJem0/s320/2015-05-29+09.27.10.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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or a chunky pair of Doc Martens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhwjVtTor_W7YFOvdseFTQaBFeXxxQwg7Rz8wr1vfnJ4AIPrW-ome2HJxuCk2z8LbMFWzTXanf3j1WqiUNvDL2TkKgSmXuVHGUeEnhyphenhyphenja3zaxn_NciRGvWWsyxH7HNWAYI_MRZhIS3NA-/s1600/2015-05-29+09.34.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhwjVtTor_W7YFOvdseFTQaBFeXxxQwg7Rz8wr1vfnJ4AIPrW-ome2HJxuCk2z8LbMFWzTXanf3j1WqiUNvDL2TkKgSmXuVHGUeEnhyphenhyphenja3zaxn_NciRGvWWsyxH7HNWAYI_MRZhIS3NA-/s320/2015-05-29+09.34.26.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7KrzcIZMOwV3OMJQT-B8TTUyHa2bubD2pmJdWUUBpYWpwOYMAjQVbuJ30WSn-ri4vYPJw4H36f7XLfjDFb0YedfLsNu-uZmr68FNk8wvioSJEzLy4TI9DskzFUTtDal1FK9Nm2Acs18y/s1600/2015-05-29+09.35.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7KrzcIZMOwV3OMJQT-B8TTUyHa2bubD2pmJdWUUBpYWpwOYMAjQVbuJ30WSn-ri4vYPJw4H36f7XLfjDFb0YedfLsNu-uZmr68FNk8wvioSJEzLy4TI9DskzFUTtDal1FK9Nm2Acs18y/s320/2015-05-29+09.35.02.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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As much as I hate to let a good pair of flares go I know that there are plenty more charity shop treasures to be had and these trousers will get much more use.<br />
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I love a good upcycle :) </div>
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<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-29354375511327842692015-05-09T10:45:00.002-07:002015-05-09T10:45:55.191-07:00Cardigan upcycled from a skirt!This week has been a slow sewing week for me - filled with good intentions after a lovely birthday weekend I came down with a cold and resigned myself to making it through work and settling on the sofa when I was at home. That said I did continue to work on the project using my Grandmas' old skirt.<br />
She didn't want it anymore and kindly gave it to me to use as fabric. I loved the swirls and the general print and originally thought I would just make it into a skirt that fitted me. But then I saw someone sporting a fabulous jacket made from a similar pattern and was immediately inspired.<br />
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I lay out my fabric - trimming the edges and the waist band to see how much use-able fabric I had left. Despite my grand ambitions to do something structured I realised fast that I needed to change that plan because skirts actually aren't that big.<br />
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I decided instead to go for a smaller version of the slouch cardigan that you can check out <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/slouch-cardigan.html" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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I followed the pattern from my original cardigan but made it about 25" by 35". Once I tried it on I realised I needed to take out some of the length because the sleeves had way too much fabric in them for being such a cropped cardigan. I snipped away and ended up with this!<br />
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So easy - so slouchy and so comfy - which if I am really honest is super important for me when it comes to clothes. I've already worn it to work, out for a coffee and just as a quick throw on jacket as I head out the door when the suns out.</div>
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This is why I love upcycling - an old skirt that is no longer wanted and doesn't fit turned into something useful, wearable and funky. </div>
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Next project has to be something more ambitious but I have to fearing ruining some of my gorgeous fabric. Watch this space to see what happens next . . .Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-20707511685853588432015-05-02T03:15:00.000-07:002015-05-02T03:15:58.626-07:00Birthday Love . . . I have become another year older and in celebration of that fact so many friends and family have showered me with love. Some of that love came in the form of gifts and I have to admit that if I didn't know it already I certainly know now that sewing must occupy a fair amount of my conversations. There was a certain sewing theme around many of the gifts I received so I thought I would do a little show case of the loveliness. I also gave the blog a little spruce up to mark the occasion - what do you think?<br />
First off are the lovely patterns that I was given this year - so exciting to be able to use these for many years to come!<br />
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I now have such a super array of patterns to choose from I am really not sure where to start. The sewing bee was absolutely right up there in the best programmes to watch for me and I am just as impressed with the book. A huge amount of patterns from the very simple to quite complex is crammed into the book - in fact the only thing missing was a pair of woman's trousers. How very convenient to have also been gifted a lovely pattern for them! I have the Prima pattern for <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/first-pair-of-trousers.html" target="_blank">trousers</a> already but really wanted to make a more fitted pair as well. This pattern is perfect for just that.<br />
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I am super inspired by the 1960's style coat in the sewing bee book but I think I might have to build up to that one!<br />
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A cute set of Made by Me buttons to stitch on to my crafts - think I might wear it as a brooch on a future jacket.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzntUUn3g6Wgl1fNGtq5g1llFHwsnkl7SBW1dz6VIHnQZtHSAiSklXszJYOJyWb08DdgudwmQdo7qALRgxijN7_LGFd1Zt8mh3K-L1t-JqfgDmtNwq7jcdOadKLdOYxgqiUuvcrbfyv80/s1600/IMAG0174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzntUUn3g6Wgl1fNGtq5g1llFHwsnkl7SBW1dz6VIHnQZtHSAiSklXszJYOJyWb08DdgudwmQdo7qALRgxijN7_LGFd1Zt8mh3K-L1t-JqfgDmtNwq7jcdOadKLdOYxgqiUuvcrbfyv80/s1600/IMAG0174.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lwtlr35nnLopHynAV32hYhlc6FIVRmmdRFDFKAJxETStD_Q4J5aaddUPPF_rbh2u9YHCIgn3W6n_MF_pcS-XDddp-k8kVhniZZGG3b0WEvvnMuK30KjXMxqXYnX97jqzMjebZEmUYiRd/s1600/IMAG0176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lwtlr35nnLopHynAV32hYhlc6FIVRmmdRFDFKAJxETStD_Q4J5aaddUPPF_rbh2u9YHCIgn3W6n_MF_pcS-XDddp-k8kVhniZZGG3b0WEvvnMuK30KjXMxqXYnX97jqzMjebZEmUYiRd/s1600/IMAG0176.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>A gorgeous selection of fabrics! So in love with these and already plotting a pair of trousers from that purple striped fabric!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieiIPCRd8bHzfxPmG_1z_nEhEfy_GD9q9mjpn_UDJXlR8bm243i-dTnYKgOZ7v4iYbPlTP7EFlXeL4yjcwnL-dmTYHFYGmzHbgXBvS92ncwPtizUTUDyc-ktOsfLHjdQU1KZgJyegmWLCy/s1600/IMAG0177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieiIPCRd8bHzfxPmG_1z_nEhEfy_GD9q9mjpn_UDJXlR8bm243i-dTnYKgOZ7v4iYbPlTP7EFlXeL4yjcwnL-dmTYHFYGmzHbgXBvS92ncwPtizUTUDyc-ktOsfLHjdQU1KZgJyegmWLCy/s1600/IMAG0177.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>A cute bunting pack all ready for applique to be added</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqOlAgH8dPKigEjlhGahtgH_fgYeiEMXkykoAYcaGgQnJ2R_gXJbCUDHLN5IKiQpTNkENIcyoaqVadq7uGavESHndNnCEp1-IxV8PhIQzFII848A4Bq-SUS5UsotREhetJnwLXXqbQGSu/s1600/IMAG0178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqOlAgH8dPKigEjlhGahtgH_fgYeiEMXkykoAYcaGgQnJ2R_gXJbCUDHLN5IKiQpTNkENIcyoaqVadq7uGavESHndNnCEp1-IxV8PhIQzFII848A4Bq-SUS5UsotREhetJnwLXXqbQGSu/s1600/IMAG0178.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a>And some Cath Kidston loveliness! So very cute and super useful.</div>
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I definitely felt the love this year from all sorts of wonderful people and the sewing theme in the gifts was very much appreciated. I can't wait to get started on some of the patterns I have been given and use all the wonderful fabric and accessories. <br />
Watch this space for my future projects.<br />
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-69303583291664321532015-05-02T01:56:00.000-07:002015-05-02T02:17:58.538-07:00The shirt dressSo after posting a dress out of a old shirt that I made on facebook a lot of people commented so I thought I'd share the process. The idea came from seeing a similar picture on the page below.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CreativeIdeass?hc_location=stream">https://www.facebook.com/CreativeIdeass?hc_location=stream</a><br />
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So I started off with a mans shirt - this idea works great for recycling as all the parts of a shirt that wear and look old like neck and sleeves you cut off leaving behind perfectly good fabric. As I'm quite tall (5ft8") I would wear mine as a tunic rather than a full dress so you want to ensure the shirt you choose is a size that means it is as long as you want it. If its too long that's easy as you just turn it up but too short is harder to fix!<br />
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For this you will need a shirt, a measuring tape, pins, thread, scissors and a sewing machine/needle. A machine will make it a lot quicker but there is no reason why you can't do this by hand.<br />
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Step by Step<br />
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<li>Put the shirt on inside out and either in front of a mirror or with someone else doing it for you pin the sides so that it is roughly the fit you want. Work out on you where you want the arm holes to be and mark. At the point where you want to start the arms stop pinning.</li>
<li>Now take off the shirt and lay it flat. Measure the sides where you have marked your arms - ensure they are the same on each side and adjust accordingly. </li>
<li>Mark an arch around your arms and the neck. Cut along this mark - sometimes it helps to fold the shirt in half once you have cut the first arm hole to ensure your markings match. If you choose to leave some sleeve on your dress then just arch your scissors out towards the shoulder to include this. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQCjKkNgDdTQbglldjoYGFsCPrAfQBxFY41O1kr7Yt9F4gY8hbu_8OycD8Zv3OO5LwSOScaAwREIdsKmOOmDTzhIGvI2QJBa-ct__RdtDSiXsHPx24ipqvSzizpJmqiyvkADH6gjQRi3c/s1600/IMAG0501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSQCjKkNgDdTQbglldjoYGFsCPrAfQBxFY41O1kr7Yt9F4gY8hbu_8OycD8Zv3OO5LwSOScaAwREIdsKmOOmDTzhIGvI2QJBa-ct__RdtDSiXsHPx24ipqvSzizpJmqiyvkADH6gjQRi3c/s320/IMAG0501.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li>Your neck can be cut however you choose - I went for a high neck that was quite round this time but if you want a square neck just cut it in that shape. You should now have something like this<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrS01uDevcRpt0odV9BnHMelX1OMDUZ7l8zpWpGjPaZQbwoA3cdq_I7qykpx-UNeX-R1Ej-6bqrNXl4KkETyr0aI9nJIcP4d47mymPIBZ_DGjVCup1jCt0pyttCC3ANB4irkE2XU5u_eeb/s1600/IMAG0502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrS01uDevcRpt0odV9BnHMelX1OMDUZ7l8zpWpGjPaZQbwoA3cdq_I7qykpx-UNeX-R1Ej-6bqrNXl4KkETyr0aI9nJIcP4d47mymPIBZ_DGjVCup1jCt0pyttCC3ANB4irkE2XU5u_eeb/s320/IMAG0502.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<li>Now you have the shape you want put the shirt back on and adjust the pins along the sides. It can be as loose or as fitted as you want - just remember you can always add a belt later to change up the effect!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIO5VGI9SNYxK8n7VWHcwFyi3RXVSEuDJWsfa6VYIJuatHKlAVaTSyMl2mA_vvcsCTaaWsZLX_9STvq0MIk3eTNarKlKEIU9lbw9Yr1FnNnY-q25PEB44GpKtBmU_x3m5Qkg1yellyVe_/s1600/IMAG0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIO5VGI9SNYxK8n7VWHcwFyi3RXVSEuDJWsfa6VYIJuatHKlAVaTSyMl2mA_vvcsCTaaWsZLX_9STvq0MIk3eTNarKlKEIU9lbw9Yr1FnNnY-q25PEB44GpKtBmU_x3m5Qkg1yellyVe_/s320/IMAG0503.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<li>Now stitch a straight line stitch along the line of the pins ensuring you remove them as you go. Cut away the old shirt seam leaving you enough spaces to bind the raw edges.</li>
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7. You now need to bind up all the raw edges. I use an over locker but you can use a simple zig zag stitch along every edge that could fray leaving a neat finish like below</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-B0GwbILYY9CQZ0W67Mow84zvVcJ7hXU6WYMtpvw1A2QqEjOFPCgTxHD9dO9GeoNIKNmrWZgBQM3aYFqf3BeYiYT1vh8DnGM1onpQU1d8lNlQTbJu7FjHS_4Uhwc4sTZS7w-oo0tnPKV/s1600/IMAG0504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-B0GwbILYY9CQZ0W67Mow84zvVcJ7hXU6WYMtpvw1A2QqEjOFPCgTxHD9dO9GeoNIKNmrWZgBQM3aYFqf3BeYiYT1vh8DnGM1onpQU1d8lNlQTbJu7FjHS_4Uhwc4sTZS7w-oo0tnPKV/s320/IMAG0504.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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8. Fold this edge over to the inside of the shirt and switch your machine to a straight line stitch. Work out how far from the edge you want your stitching to show and match your fabric to this line on your machine. It won't be more than a centimeter as the stitch needs to hold the fold in place. Ensure you are consistent all around the arms and neck as this stitch will show on your finished product.</div>
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9. Now trim all loose threads and try your finished product on.<br />
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So there you have it - the first picture is made by minimizing sleeves and using a smaller sized shirt that creates a shorter tunic style top. The second is more of a dress made from a bigger sized shirt, with a square neck and a small sleeve left on. Both shirts cost me nothing - just make sure you check before you cut up someone in your households best shirt cause you love the fabric! </div>
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Happy sewing and share your pictures! I'd love to see how you get on!</div>
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-37488011774409432552015-04-22T07:21:00.001-07:002015-05-02T02:22:59.131-07:00Slouch cardiganA lovely afternoon spent wandering resulted in me discovering some fantastically blue fabric in a charity shop. It was reduced to only a pound so I went for it and began to plan the fabulous things I would make from it. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/jenniwessels/">Pinterest</a> to the ready and off I went. I found this fantastic pattern for a super comfy slouch cardigan. If you decide you fancy giving it a go you can find the pattern <a href="http://truebias.com/2014/03/diy-cocoon-cardigan.html">here</a> from True Bias.<br />
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The pattern seemed pretty straight forward so off I went - 2 simple rectangles, a bit of shaping and I find myself already at the sewing machine.<br />
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It really was nice to just have to cut this much out before sewing.</div>
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As I got to work I realised how much this fabric would fray and actually a much more complex pattern might have been a nightmare to work with. This is what my overlocker looked like after a few seams being done. Super fluffy!</div>
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I persevered and chose to do a french seam as was recommended in the original blog post which cut down on some of the amount of loose fibers I was dealing with. I have to say that if you are looking for a nice simple pattern to get you going on a sewing machine this is most certainly it. Really straight forward and the only thing that required some tweaking for me was the curve for the front of the cardigan. I made it much to deep originally so once I tried it on I had some strange bits that didn't seem to belong anywhere. Scissors out and a bit of adjustments made and I loved it.<br />
So here we have it - unfortunately my dummy is a much to similar colour to the fabric so once again I have had to model this one. (any volunteers to model future projects very welcome!)<br />
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I love how loose and free it is and I definitely want to try this pattern in a knit as think it is a perfect pattern to practice sewing more stretchy fabrics. I'm currently a little bit afraid of them!<br />
Overall I am happy with the outcome of this one. Simple, quick and actually just cost a pound - and now I have an extra piece for my wardrobe.<br />
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For my next project I am trying to find a cute pattern for a jacket - I have a skirt that my grandma gave me and I am thinking that with a little bit of clever pattern placement I might be able to stretch it out to turn into a jacket - I'll keep my eyes peeled and let you know!<br />
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Thanks for popping by to check this out - it has been lovely to see so many of you recently - leave a comment so I know who you are or pop by and say hi on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/daydreamsandsunshine">facebook</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/jenniwessels">twitter</a>. Till next time!<br />
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<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-30619098146254721072015-04-19T04:18:00.001-07:002015-05-02T02:23:18.537-07:00First pair of trousers!!!Finally I found some lovely light fabric that I could use to create a pair of trousers. Now I have to be honest trousers are kinda scary for me. Skirts are so easily adjustable - tops can be fitted or loose and flowing but trousers have all sorts of funny complexities that have scared me off for a long time.<br />
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I decided to follow a pattern because although I love the idea of folding a pair of trousers I love in half and going from there I just wasn't convinced that my understanding of trouser construction was solid enough to go with that method. I used the March Prima pattern which was for a loose pair of culotte style trousers. I used to own a pair of denim ones and lived in them so happily set to cutting and pinning.<br />
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I found that once I had cut all of the pieces out everything made a lot more sense - when I look at the paper pattern it is hard for me to envisage how it will fit together - once in fabric I can see it much more clearly. I was actually surprised by how simply I found the whole pattern. Don't get me wrong my finished product is not perfect but in terms of understanding what I was doing the majority of making trousers is about matching seams and sewing neatly.<br />
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The zip was my most daunting part - in error I didn't mark the fold lines on the fabric or the sewing lines for the zip. I think this added to some of the problems I had. I managed to make the zip go in quite neatly just by playing around and seeing what looked best but the problem came with the bottom of the zip. As you can see in the photo below I have a little twist in the fabric - when wearing you can't really notice it because of the way the fabric falls but I think if I had taken a little more time in the marking stages I would have avoided this problem.<br />
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The overall effect however I am pretty pleased with - quite neat with a straight zip which does exactly what it should do and is completely concealed by the fly.<br />
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I do love the pleats and pockets though - they sit nicely and pockets always add a little something to any outfit!<br />
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And there you have it - a finished wearable pair of trousers. I have already worn them once and plan to repeat the pattern again and try to get the zip a little more perfect. This experiment has certainly given me confidence to try to make more trousers - I love to wear something a little different and I love trousers like these with a little pleat at the waist so hopefully I can tweak the pattern to make full length trousers too! Hmm I think I need to go back to the charity shops and find more fabric!</div>
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<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-57683352037880911312015-04-13T03:04:00.001-07:002015-05-02T02:23:37.262-07:00Weekender bag from a duvet cover!I was recently lent a pattern to make a weekender bag. Now I have a sewing machine that works I am finding my enthusiasm for trying more challenging projects is growing. So I sat down a few weeks ago to begin the challenge.<br />
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I decided to use the same striped fabric that I had used for my cushions earlier in the month - basically because I just loved it so much! The whole bag is quilted including the straps which made it a lot more time consuming than I had originally anticipated. But I got my walking foot set up on the machine and after a bit of you tubing to understand how a walking foot actually works I set off on the quilting.<br />
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I am super impressed with how much easier it is to do quilting with the correct set up on the machine. I was sewing fabric, wadding and another layer of fabric and it was pleasingly obedient. After a good block of time quilting I was able to start on the construction. I over locked everything using the stitches on the machine rather than my over locker (just to try them out :) ) and then was able to use straight stitches to join the pieces together. The actual construction of the bag was pretty straight forward. Lots of straight lines and the instructions I had borrowed as well as being able to see what someone else had made led to a pretty straight forward sewing job.<br />
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And here it is - stripey and proud. I love the way the handles go right underneath the bag making it super secure.<br />
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Yay for things working out as planned - not quite perfect but pretty close on the matching of stripes over a zip! I have to confess to zips absolutely not being my forte so this one going in so super straight made me very happy.<br />
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And it fits neatly over the shoulder or the straps are long enough to carry it across body.<br />
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So it took a fair while but the results are great! It will get lots of use I'm sure!<br />
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*Look out for my next project - my first home made pair of trousers - coming soon!Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-51019338146841553112015-03-17T03:51:00.000-07:002015-05-02T02:23:55.938-07:00Sewing storageAs you might have guessed I am currently making attempts to sew at every opportunity and explore the loveliness that is my new machine.<br />
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That said it is still new and I am taking things slow and steady so as not to confuse myself. So lots of little simple projects it is!<br />
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So while practicing on the machine I found myself irritated by the many charger wires gathering next to our computer. So I decided to sew some little storage pots to hold all those annoying things that have no place to go. I learnt this technique from a sewing evening I go along to on Wednesdays. <br />
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I needed a reasonably strong fabric and a lovely friend recently gave me her old flared jeans. Fabulously wide and fabulously funky! A true ode to our 15 year old selves and the fabric is perfect for what I needed.<br />
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Now the jean leg is already a tube so I just cut it to the length I wanted. I then did the same with the lining fabric. I then sewed down the two edge seams of the lining to create the same tube as with the denim,<br />
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On the base of your fabric cut two squares out from each corner as below.<br />
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Then sew the base of the denim all along the flat edge leaving the cut out corners open. With the lining do the same but leave a few cms open in the middle as you will need this gap later.</div>
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Then take the corners of your cut in square and pull them out so that your sewn seam is in line with the corner on the edge of your denim tube. </div>
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Then just sew straight along that line.</div>
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When you turn it out you have a box effect. As you can see due to the flare of the jeans I chose both my seams on the jeans were not equal so it was impossible to match the bottom with sides on both edges but it still creates a box effect.<br />
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Repeat the same with the lining and place right sides together and sew around the top. Then turn the whole thing through the gap in the lining so that you have the denim on the outside and the fabric on the inside. Neatly sew up the little gap.</div>
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I then pressed the fabric and used some embroidery stitches to do some edging on the turn over.</div>
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And there you have it - super quick to make, quite a forgiving project in terms of requiring not too much accuracy and a totally funky use of what were some pretty awesome flares!<br />
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I love them and I love that after sitting on the floor for a few weeks they can be thrown in the wash and used again - that is the beauty of fabric!</div>
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-41786982142327281812015-03-11T07:20:00.000-07:002015-05-02T02:24:26.694-07:00My new sewing machine!As many of you know I have been waiting for a long time to replace my old sewing machine. It has served me well having been bought as a present when I was 15 for me by my parents. It has sewn my my wedding dress, prom dress, some bridesmaids dresses, a quilt for my nephew, a dress for my sisters 21st birthday and so many other things. But it was reaching a point of no return when the enjoyable part of sewing was taken away because I had to fix the machine every ten minutes.<br />
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So ... finally after much debate I bought a new one! I have to confess to finding it quite a stressful purchase - I am amazed at the amount of choices there are.<br />
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This is what I chose<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IlOJECjA_g4cz0DKIQp85MnyPgMpNKHK8Q9ZqRnC7M3r4OyFb2DfG1mwSEsuxA4e5A0UCkmqpyNpXecQLEWRAdSGF6WC8YzRDpK7XHw5sXZP6puKwd7KVvT2V6l4mixcatKC2Wg5KF_q/s1600/2015-03-11+14.04.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IlOJECjA_g4cz0DKIQp85MnyPgMpNKHK8Q9ZqRnC7M3r4OyFb2DfG1mwSEsuxA4e5A0UCkmqpyNpXecQLEWRAdSGF6WC8YzRDpK7XHw5sXZP6puKwd7KVvT2V6l4mixcatKC2Wg5KF_q/s1600/2015-03-11+14.04.21.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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A sewing machine by Frister and Rossman bought from <a href="http://www.sewingmachines.co.uk/">sewing machines direct</a>. A great bonus of ordering from them is the huge amount of thread that you get and a handy scissor pack. Really a great little bonus on top of free next day delivery!<br />
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I have to admit I didn't think I would go for a computerized machine but now I have got going I am so happy I did.<br />
It is so smooth and so quiet compared to what I was using before! <br />
I had to spend some time reading the instructions which is quite unusual for me and then made an attempt to jump in and get started. A few trips back to the instruction book and a couple of checks of some you tube videos and I seem to be well on my way.<br />
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So what is great about this machine?<br />
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<li>It is super smooth and neatly ends each round of stitching with the needle exactly where you tell it (ie up or down). Perfect for sewing corners and just saving time to not keep using the handle to adjust the needle and end a row</li>
<li>The machine helpfully recomends the best foot for the stitch selected</li>
<li>It is quiet</li>
<li>The stitches come out beautifully - so strong and so even (I think that is maybe an indication of how falling apart my old machine was to be honest!)</li>
<li>It seems to be a great combination of quilting and dressmaking </li>
<li>It makes cute sewn stars! I mean really what else could you want!</li>
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I have to say that my sewing has increased a huge amount because I am able to properly enjoy it again! More of that to come soon!</div>
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I have to admit to having a list of projects ready to blog about because I just can't leave the machine alone! But my stash of fabric is beginning to get a dent in it which probably is a good thing!</div>
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To summarize I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to go and choose a new machine and to sit down and enjoy it! Must get back to it now I'm in the middle of a fab weekender bag! </div>
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-3304742107863392232015-02-28T13:02:00.004-08:002015-05-02T02:25:18.541-07:00Deckchair SunshineAfter a glorious day of sunshine on Friday it seems that winter has returned with grey skies and lots of rain! When will summer arrive? Admittedly I am being slightly unrealistic expecting it to show up in February but one can hope!<br />
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To beat my winter blues I pulled out this fabric that I have had for months and months and not been too sure how to use it. I love the stripe but haven't felt quite confident that I can turn it into something that I would wear.<br />
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SO instead I chose to turn it into something my house could wear - or my sofa to be specific!<br />
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Cushion covers! They can be as simple or as complicated as you want them to be. You can add piping to the edges, applique the front, add zips, buttons - anything that takes your fancy. But when you have some fabric as bright as mine you can just go for a straight forward envelope cushion cover. Super quick and super simple.<br />
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I cut out 1 x 18"by18" and 2 x 13"by18" of my fabric.<br />
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I then took the 2 smaller pieces and made a hem on one of the 18" lengths from both of the pieces.<br />
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Then I lay the large square right side facing up and place the 18" raw edges of the small pieces in line with the raw edges at the top and bottom of the large square. At this point your right sides of fabric should be facing each other and all you should see if the wrong sides.<br />
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Pin and then sew right round the square. <br />
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Trim the corners and any loose threads, press and there you have it a super cute and super simple cushion cover.<br />
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Here are the two I made - upcycled from a bed sheet found in a charity shop.<br />
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I love the deckchair stripes and they certainly brighten up my yellow sofa! Here is to hoping summer arrives soon!<br />
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What else do you see being made out of this fabric? I have plenty more and am loving it right now so any suggestions do share!<br />
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-18016852855837208482015-02-14T07:21:00.000-08:002015-05-02T02:28:57.525-07:00Kimono TopI am continuing to love the crochet but this weekend had a bit of free time and was given some patterns. I had a good look through and saw a kimono style top.<br />
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I have always stuck to quite plain tops leaning towards brighter patterns in skirts. Recently though I am travelling around mainly via scooter so find myself in jeans. This has left me feeling a bit dull in the clothes that I wear. Jeans and plain-ish tops are the style for me at the minute so a cute kimono top might just brighten things up a little bit.<br />
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I had some bright peachy-orange fabric that was the under side from a reclaimed duvet cover I was gifted. The top side was used to make <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2014/07/funky-dress-upcycled-of-course.html">this funky dress.</a><br />
Now the underside is being used to make a jacket. It actually excites me when I find a way to use up some fabric that otherwise might have gone to waste. Plus when I make something out of the fabric I already own without buying anything I get an extra buzz!<br />
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The prima pattern was pretty simple to use. Instructions are clearly on the back and patterns pieces show sizing really clearly. If you are going to use again and again you really need to trace out the pattern as they are copied on both sides.<br />
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The whole project has probably taken me about 3 hours including cutting out. The one thing I couldn't quite understand from the pattern is how to neaten the seams - it does have an explanation but in my Saturday sewing haze I couldn't quite get my head around it. Instead I decided to use french seams throughout - it takes an extra line of sewing for each seam but is super neat and there is not a raw edge to be found!<br />
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Well here it is - what do you think?<br />
I love the cherries on the edge of the sleeves!<br />
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Have any of you tried the Prima patterns? It is a new find for me but given how expensive patterns can be a free one here and there can't be a bad thing! Plus the patterns are pretty simple so would be easily adaptable.<br />
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I'll give this top a few wears and see if there are any tweaks to be made but I think this might become a staple design to be used in many different fabrics!<br />
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Till next time!<br />
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:)</div>
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-70140376725601614912015-02-10T04:35:00.003-08:002015-05-02T02:29:15.500-07:00Getting my crochet on!So I kinda fell into this one - hanging out at the sewing cafe I try to get to when I can a friend of mine re-taught me to crochet. My Mum and You-Tube have taught me on a few occasions however I never seemed to quite get going.<br />
I think this time round the cold weather and desire for a calm and peaceful pastime spurred me on. I set off and practiced a few stitches eventually resulting in me simply stitching round and round in circles.<br />
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This didn't exactly turn into anything but it got me going and got me used to how I manage the tension - little fingers are key for this one for me!<br />
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Then I found this super simple tutorial on you-tube. Simple and slow really is exactly what was required for me at this stage I'm afraid. If you fancy a go this is the link I used <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsVrg71Jgbs">Crochet Blanket</a><br />
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So off I went - and started to make a square. All seemed to be going well until I realized that my double crochet was missing a stage and I needed to correct this. I decided as I already had crocheted the size of a cushion cover that I would just accept this mistake as a quirk of my project. This means that my blanket will never quite be a perfect square as the middle of each edge leans inwards slightly.<br />
I studied the video a little more closely this time (lessons we learn again and again - pay attention!:)) and adjusted my double crochet accordingly.<br />
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I haven't quite got to the finished stage yet but I thought I would give it a share anyway and add the finished product into another post later along in the year.<br />
I have to admit that this most certainly does not look as smooth and perfect as the blanket in the video but for a first attempt I reckon it is pretty good! It is fit for purpose if nothing else.<br />
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So why am I falling in love with crochet? I don't loose my way like with knitting, I find it super therapeutic and peaceful (even finding myself crocheting while listening to music and drifting into a world of my thoughts - bliss), I love the look of crochet and I have made (nearly) a whole blanket with odds and scraps of wool that I had lying around the house. All of the wool was picked up from charity shops originally anyway but then had been half used and abandoned into the depths of my wool box. Now all of that wool is woven together to create something that I think is pretty cool and is actually useful. Up-cycling at its best - what was abandoned and forgotten has been utilized to become something used and pretty. Plus I enjoyed making it!<br />
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I think I have summed myself up pretty clearly there - I'm loving the peace of crochet, up-cycling makes me happy and I can't wait to complete my funky granny square blanket!<br />
Have you started any new projects recently?<br />
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-55625682983438006922015-01-20T04:25:00.001-08:002015-05-02T02:29:33.942-07:00Stitching challenge<div dir="ltr">
So I am shamelessly on the scrounge for inspiration!<br />
I fancy sewing something new and different, maybe that involves learning some new techniques and skills. It could be for me or to give away. It could be useful or just for fun.</div>
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What have you wanted to try but never found the time or not quite sure how? Send them through to me on the comments or via facebook and I'll take a look.</div>
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If you send me something I'll blog my way through making it - my failures and successes. Hopefully in the end it will be something filled with fabulousness!<br />
So what do you reckon? Let me know your thoughts and hopefully I'll be busy stitching soon!<br />
Don't forget if it involves upcycling I'm likely to be up for it! <br />
Thanks everyone - can't wait to see the challenges you send me! :-)</div>
Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-55954844844129434222015-01-12T10:08:00.000-08:002015-05-02T02:29:58.514-07:00A bit of an update of my recent projects!As Christmas approaches suddenly blogging from my end becomes very quiet! Everything I was making is a secret and ready to be packaged off and sent away to friends and family. So I thought I would do a little summary of the things I made in the run up to 2015.<br />
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I was asked to make some bunting for an advent calendar. It was a really fun project - and quite simple once I got going. The triangles were just made from 2 squares of fabric sewn together and then turned inside out before being folded into the bunting flags. <br />
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This is a decoration that I made at a sewing evening I helped with during December. It is a perfect project for Christmas and yes not a stitch in sight! A lovely combination of squares, folding and lots of little pins. <br />
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And here is my first attempt at quilting. My sister was expecting a baby ( the lovely Jacob has now arrived:) ) and I decided a perfect gift would be a quilt. It grew as I sewed because I kept changing how I wanted things to look so in the end turned out to be more of a play mat but I was still pretty proud of it in the end.<br />
Definitely realized that I am a novice quilter and had a few unpicking sessions along the way but was really proud of the applique!<br />
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And I made a few more gifts - some little bags and a night dress but I unfortunately didn't take any photos. I might add them at a later date!<br />
What did you craft over Christmas now the date has passed and we can share our creations?<br />
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<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-69021510295527327762014-08-29T09:34:00.002-07:002014-08-29T09:35:11.058-07:00Upcycled Hen!Hen Parties are known for their shiny fabrics and garish accessories all bought for a bargain price at the local fancy dress shop and quickly disposed of throughout the course of the evening/weekend. <br />
I was asked to do something a little different and make some bits and pieces for a hen party that wasn't quite so plastic.<br />
We had a little chat about what she wanted and I set about stitching. It was really fun to make something different to the things I usually make with a personal touch that made it unique. It set me thinking about how very commercialized hen parties and weddings can become (and so very expensive!) and yet some upcycled fabric and a bit of time can create something truly unique and special!<br />
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So here is what I made . . .<br />
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Some cute little hand warmers for all of the hens.</div>
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These are really simple to make and don't take long at all so if you think you fancy having a go pop across to <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/little-gifts.html">this post</a> on how to get started!</div>
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Then I got started on the sash for the bride to be.<br />
Using a simple cream fabric I cut out the fabric for the sash before cutting out the letters in a fun autumnal fabric. <br />
Then it is the slow task (but oh so satisfying) of applique. This does take a little while but it looks so much better than simply sticking fabric on and removes the risk of all that fraying!<br />
Here is a little bit more on <a href="http://daydreamsandsunshine.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/getting-my-applique-on.html">applique</a>!<br />
Then I just neatly sewed the sash together and pressed it out to give a neat line on each side.<br />
I used a safety pin with a rag effect to secure the sash and there you have it - upcycled and made with love!<br />
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What do you think? Upcycled hen parties are the way forwards?!? I certainly think so! Environmental impact is minimum, there is less tack around and it is filled with fun preparation sewing! What could go wrong!</div>
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If you are getting started on making yours then get in touch and we can share tips! I'm certainly hoping I get asked to make some more of these!</div>
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-31599923649694725142014-07-29T04:14:00.002-07:002015-05-02T01:52:45.704-07:00Funky dress - upcycled of courseIt has become a bit of a habit around birthdays for me to have a chat with my sister to consider what I want/need and eventually revert back to fabric. She is a star and pops along to local charity shops and hunts till she finds me some fabulous fabric that I can upcycle for myself. Yay - permission to indulge absoloutely granted. <br />
This year was no different so I was presented with this fantastic polka dot fabric! I love it!<br />
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I wasn't too sure what to make but then decided to go for a completely random approach and chuck it onto the mannequin and just see where I ended up (as demonstrated below - clearly very technical!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VtVsghBSfAYQ3-sK-mS1GM2GgC9htS-zsejiPw66K8efEkcZb-gfM6Kvcd-m4pcSF_nxyWEnB7eupea6O3Qg46CDyD21ChsfFXam0IBwbIq5MVp_HbgdL2Wcajd3dizbqoo5_qzzkbS3/s1600/2014-07-08+10.51.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-VtVsghBSfAYQ3-sK-mS1GM2GgC9htS-zsejiPw66K8efEkcZb-gfM6Kvcd-m4pcSF_nxyWEnB7eupea6O3Qg46CDyD21ChsfFXam0IBwbIq5MVp_HbgdL2Wcajd3dizbqoo5_qzzkbS3/s1600/2014-07-08+10.51.12.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I don't really do well with patterns - possibly because I don't really do that well with being told what to do - and tend to go off pattern all the time anyway! So I just went with what felt right. I decided the larger dots at the bottom decreasing as it went up worker well and with the amount of fabric it had to be a dress. Once I started adding shape by pinning in some darts I had begun to get an idea of how the dress would look.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRsTdpMaB4shwsTxxzNqNsBTw4X9JZm2NhDt8vv-TTv1ySsT6PbtaA-j4iDA3Uc-YAfbJPfeTkarHqkq3EekRl6hp1GPuDie0B7Yok-b_JY-SKH-7iTYWB3ySjUbTMS2im18DaAMMuH9j/s1600/2014-07-08+11.07.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRsTdpMaB4shwsTxxzNqNsBTw4X9JZm2NhDt8vv-TTv1ySsT6PbtaA-j4iDA3Uc-YAfbJPfeTkarHqkq3EekRl6hp1GPuDie0B7Yok-b_JY-SKH-7iTYWB3ySjUbTMS2im18DaAMMuH9j/s1600/2014-07-08+11.07.51.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I would absolutely recommend having a go at something like this! First of all it gives you absolute freedom to do whatever you want, second you don't have to buy a pattern and if you use upcycled fabric it is likely to be cheap and cheerful and if you end up with a disaster then you haven't lost too much!<br />
This dress started off as a duvet cover and with some snipping, pinning and tweaking turned into a dress that I will absolutely be wearing! What do you think?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBSp157_rX8ES9IrZ4N7ylILJU9DSNXxeUEP7X00pYDLCbrzVwZv8O5VDeEaIiWR1ycWmI3VqFpqHW9fDO7wcMCMv2hJR_aBp_O_XJuUl1NMoRXyWAtXYzG95vwJTmrXjH9RwvlL1gYDZ/s1600/2014-07-29+11.30.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBSp157_rX8ES9IrZ4N7ylILJU9DSNXxeUEP7X00pYDLCbrzVwZv8O5VDeEaIiWR1ycWmI3VqFpqHW9fDO7wcMCMv2hJR_aBp_O_XJuUl1NMoRXyWAtXYzG95vwJTmrXjH9RwvlL1gYDZ/s1600/2014-07-29+11.30.21.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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A bit of a dark picture there but an idea of the shape of the dress. I'm really happy with the way the sleeves worked so well even on a mannequin - I have to admit to being a bit afraid of sleeves so going off pattern was a bit nervy but they seem to have worked well!<br />
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It is so comfy and I love the neutral colours that can be dressed up with a fun, bright necklace or bracelet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIt5zHI1qO6oAY-HvoigTV-2nDdmAEcY60pDySCpZdbt4BYeXH497t2o2PXdreDNKtYZvTMMxI6wScG0oI50WWr-O3So4nQnkYtuOW7X-fMlh4sy2WK8p1l7Uhgyzue5kRtKBRMpwzRWo/s1600/2014-07-29+11.31.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIt5zHI1qO6oAY-HvoigTV-2nDdmAEcY60pDySCpZdbt4BYeXH497t2o2PXdreDNKtYZvTMMxI6wScG0oI50WWr-O3So4nQnkYtuOW7X-fMlh4sy2WK8p1l7Uhgyzue5kRtKBRMpwzRWo/s1600/2014-07-29+11.31.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIt5zHI1qO6oAY-HvoigTV-2nDdmAEcY60pDySCpZdbt4BYeXH497t2o2PXdreDNKtYZvTMMxI6wScG0oI50WWr-O3So4nQnkYtuOW7X-fMlh4sy2WK8p1l7Uhgyzue5kRtKBRMpwzRWo/s1600/2014-07-29+11.31.18.jpg" height="320" width="240" /> </a></div>
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What a great birthday gift! The fun of opening it to find gorgeous fabric, the dreaming up of a project perfect for the fabric, the sewing and now the wearing! Talk about the gift that just keeps on giving!</div>
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Have you made any clothes by using a mannequin? Do send them over so I can share them too!</div>
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Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-14871255361677701142014-06-09T11:50:00.002-07:002014-06-09T11:50:46.024-07:00Bloggers block!Do you ever have moments where you seem to loose a little bit of your creativity for a while? I'm certainly there right now! <br />
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I am a little bit un-imaginative right now when I sit down to sew - opting instead to fix up a few ripped seams and things instead of creating new things. That means that when I sit down to blog I'm not too sure what to share with you all!<br />
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All of this lack of creative flow has got me thinking how I find my inspiration and how do I get it back when it is gone?<br />
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I realized that although the internet is awash with ideas from pinterest to blogs to simply good old google that doesn't really create inspiration. Sitting down to make something because you have seen a picture of it doesn't always mean you are truly inspired. It doesn't mean you are feeling it and it certainly doesn't mean you are enjoying the process. My go to when I feel a bit flat in front of the sewing machine is usually a good old trawl of pinterest but it doesn't always help me feel that inspired!<br />
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I have realized that I am most inspired when I am spending time with people - chatting and dreaming with someone else about life, craft, ideas, sadness, thoughts, hopes and dreams (anything really) inspires me more than anything else! I love people - I love people watching - I love talking to people - I love sewing with people and for people - I am a people person. I love to talk and I love to listen! <br />
My other top inspiration source is being in nature - wandering by the waters edge on a sunny day, pressing on through fields in the wind and exploring glorious scenery in the snow. What better inspiration could you possibly find than nature itself!<br />
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So I plan to find ways to sew with people more often - to sit and stitch and chat - one on one or in a group I don't mind really but I definitely want to move from sewing just being a time out and to a more social activity. Plus I reckon I may even try to plan some nature out-doorsy type sewing activity/event! So if you live nearby and fancy getting in on something like this why not give me a shout!<br />
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Here is a quick photo of the heart the amazing Red Arrows crafted in the sky during the D-DAY events last week! Moments like these are filled with inspiration don't you think?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFR6nbNjqaFDcN3b3g-bNw2nKMk3EdMk0X-cihIZPwgHNL7cB2EtkSNzWoc2AEHYNPA3kn3d-ossjCAjfgonBqFO5RR-QUn6dYSjYLc-7feesZc9MHsSidOxxwCn0OXPmGLaAgDFiAyE2n/s1600/2014-06-05+14.18.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFR6nbNjqaFDcN3b3g-bNw2nKMk3EdMk0X-cihIZPwgHNL7cB2EtkSNzWoc2AEHYNPA3kn3d-ossjCAjfgonBqFO5RR-QUn6dYSjYLc-7feesZc9MHsSidOxxwCn0OXPmGLaAgDFiAyE2n/s1600/2014-06-05+14.18.49.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Also do share your inspiration seeking plans! What do you do???Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-40913787984363421772014-05-27T09:16:00.000-07:002014-05-27T09:16:45.180-07:00Upcycling my things!<br />
This week I look around at my sewing room and realized that although I think I am pretty good at taking old things and making them new I am not always good at taking my old things and making them new. I have so much fabric that is cut too small to turn into a bag or purse. I have scraps or fabric with tears or stains literally everywhere. They are beautiful pieces of fabric but need to find a way to be used.<br />
Following on from my patchwork bag which I continue to be in love with I have been feeling the patchwork vibe! I spent a lovely afternoon after work last week chatting to a friend and cutting up fabric scraps into more usable scraps. <br />
I have now set about attaching them altogether to create a patchwork something! Given how many scraps I need to work through I think it will probably result in being a quilt but currently I am keeping an open mind.<br />
So far my patchwork has been using new fabrics - patches that have been bought for me by friends. But patchwork was originally about making do and mending! Taking the odds and ends of old clothes, old bedding, leftover fabrics - anything really - and turning them into something useful and hopefully beautiful too!<br />
I intend to get going on that style of sewing for a while - so this is going to be my first piece of patchwork that truly uses odds and ends of fabric. I'm pretty excited to see how it turns out! It will definitely be something I pick up and put down so don't expect a finished product any time soon!<br />
As much as I love the other patchwork I have done that followed a pattern and theme I am starting to love the absolute randomness of it. It feels somehow more authentic! We will see how it looks on a bigger scale!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggNyd9EvvjSf3EH8sLKHH-2Wr3iq2WdTPoutS1ww6Ve8ZfW6OIXUXR324eJtn5IMYSN6Wy4ChHSuFwQG2HRwp0buFgfmo4IrUAfQBiWSltHrrJtcO5KSL7CVl626ZIYe1I6BPJlxk-U4g/s1600/2014-05-27+13.17.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggNyd9EvvjSf3EH8sLKHH-2Wr3iq2WdTPoutS1ww6Ve8ZfW6OIXUXR324eJtn5IMYSN6Wy4ChHSuFwQG2HRwp0buFgfmo4IrUAfQBiWSltHrrJtcO5KSL7CVl626ZIYe1I6BPJlxk-U4g/s1600/2014-05-27+13.17.41.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3821089139009734431.post-19067372300733516582014-05-21T06:01:00.000-07:002014-05-21T06:01:27.649-07:00Patchwork love :)At Christmas my lovely friend Ellie gifted me a beautiful collection of liberty fabric patches. I had a great time adoring the lovely prints and colours and put them to one side awaiting some inspiration about what to do with them. Last week I saw a gorgeous patchwork bag that had been shared on my wall and decided to fashion something similar to this. I was supposed to be sitting down and sewing for my shop however felt totally like sewing for me so off I went!<br />
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Here are my lovely patches all laid out in their sizes ready to be stitched together.<br />
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The patchwork itself went really well - it's pretty simple to do especially if you aren't worrying about a pattern. I went for bright is beautiful and random totally works!</div>
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Once I got to the quilting of the patchwork it got a little bit more tricky. After a few goes of stitching and unpicking I finally managed to match the stretch of the wadding with the patchwork - loads of pins later and I set off sewing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstM19YAeT99Hju4oM-YqQ5O3adrWTkVB9GhVJFVYWl46cceqGw4plImiXfEv5V9-sc2iPC9nARjeVpCq2rdw97x1O_BVpVu77ItYyssTGiT6b00IAJITqIaNEJ82EJ32HApfmMJ2mcBqu/s1600/IMAG1414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstM19YAeT99Hju4oM-YqQ5O3adrWTkVB9GhVJFVYWl46cceqGw4plImiXfEv5V9-sc2iPC9nARjeVpCq2rdw97x1O_BVpVu77ItYyssTGiT6b00IAJITqIaNEJ82EJ32HApfmMJ2mcBqu/s1600/IMAG1414.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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And then continued to make it into this bag which is totally my new bag of choice for the summer! I had a little facebook discussion about the best handles to use and finally settled on this bright blue which I'm really happy with! What do you think?<br />
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After a quick chat with a lovely lady who runs a stitch and chat session at a local church she has agreed to help me quilt my patchwork blanket. I figure for such a large blanket two hands and one expert is better than me on my own so watch this space I might finally finish my patchwork quilt!</div>
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Hope you're all well and as always thanks for stopping by!</div>
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<br />Climbing trees with Jesushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07490503003717071337noreply@blogger.com0