Sun Face Brooch

I find it difficult to toss reasonably sized cotton and felt scraps into the garbage bin without making an effort to put them to good use. Here is a brooch made from some of those scraps. I hope this isn't a precursor of hoarding tendencies. Twice in recent memory I let go of things that would have been so useful in my craft.

I back most of my ornaments with felt. A friend was decluttering and gave me piles and piles of very fine quality wool felt. At the time, I couldn't imagine that the felt would be of any use to me and I gave it all away. Weeks later, I realized my mistake and I have not gotten over it to this day. :(

Recently, I discovered a talented artist through FLICKR who uses metal zippers in her art. It's something I want to try too. Yes, I had a boxful of metal zippers given to me and yes, I got rid of them. (Click on this link for an example of the lovely art of Woolly Fabulous).

I think a lesson here is to consider carefully how to use materials, should I be fortunate enough to receive these kinds of gifts in the future.






















Below is a vintage Simplicty pattern from 1977 that I ordered from Lanetz Living. It arrived today. The two piece dress is what caught my eye. It's so pretty and feminine and I can see myself wearing it in a soft floral cotton print.

Simplicity 7181

The silhouette floral skirt I wrote about a few days ago is almost done. It needs a hook and eye closure on the waistband and a hem. I have the ruffle ready for the matching black petticoat but discovered I don't have enough black broadcloth for the skirt part. So, a trip to the fabric store is required before I can make the petticoat.

In the meantime, I've decided I want to wear a dress to an event hubby and I are going to tomorrow. There isn't much time, but I'm pretty sure I can get it done by noon. I've had the pattern, Simplicity 7181 for a while and my friend, J, gave me 3 metres of fabric that she got for next to nothing in a thrift shop. If it turns out OK, then I'll whip up another one with some fabric that I've actually shelled out some bucks for. Pictured above is the view I am working on and the fabric.

I'll be wearing the dress with bare legs. This morning I got out the self tanning lotion. Already my legs are looking orange which is far better than the usual white. Perhaps another application tonight and I'll be good to go.

More about the dress to follow and if it looks good on me (with sewing you never really know ahead of time), I will model it for you soon.

New Project, New Look 6362

This pattern has been in the New Look catalogue for a long time. I made this top twice eons ago. Actually in 1995. I remember wearing one of the tops the very first time we were invited to dinner at my good friend J's house.

In those days, I always cut my patterns according to bust size which fluctuated between a size 14 and 16. I have since learned a thing or two about fitting and now I start with a size 12 and make increases when necessary. This is supposed to be loose fitting so I added 4 inches at the bust and hips. I should end up with a much better fit now than I did previously.

I am making View A, the red pullover one with the short sleeves. It has to be quick and easy right now as I have no time to fuss with zippers or buttons.

The pattern has been adjusted and I'm ready to go. I'm going to try and grab a couple of hours sewing time this afternoon and another couple this evening. I still have many things to do before we leave for our big trip - yikes - only two days away. I hope to post a picture of the finished product, if I can, tomorrow.