March 2012
1 post
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The Trials of Moving
Hi Friends! This past weekend I moved into my brand new single lady apartment! It’s very exciting, but I also have a ton of work ahead of me… as you may have noticed, I haven’t posted here in a while so I just wanted to give you a quick update and let you know I’m still alive!
Everything is still in boxes and trying to find specific items is like an obstacle course and...
February 2012
3 posts
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Introduction to Leather
I recently had the chance to work with a material that I’m not very familiar with - leather. My favorite fabric shop, Grey’s Fabric and Notions, recently got in some beautiful pieces, some large and some small scraps that are perfect for fashioning into accessories. I had to try my hand at leather working right away so I dove in with some simple accessories inspired tutorials I found...
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Weekend Escape
This past weekend I went home to Western Massachusetts where I grew up. It’s been quite chaotic around here lately and going home gave me a chance to slow down and refresh. I mostly worked on my current knitting project, a shawl which you’ll see more of later.
I spent some time admiring nature, a luxury I don’t often get in the city, and snapped this picture of a Black...
3 tags
Etsy Wednesday
Hi friends! I know I’ve been a bit of an absentee blogger as of late so I wanted to touch base with a new Etsy Wednesday. This time I’m featuring some home decor items especially for the living room.
This Etsy Wednesday is also accompanied with some news… I will be moving into a new apartment very soon, and this time it’s all by myself! Sure, I’m a little nervous,...
January 2012
6 posts
5 tags
Couture With Susan Khalje
Is the fact that Susan Khalje has a couture dressmaking class on Craftsy on anyone else’s radar?!
Craftsy is a pretty great site which features online classes on a wide variety of making including sewing, gardening, knitting, quilting, and more. You pay to sign up for the class and then have unlimited access and can also ask questions directly of the instructor. Neat, huh? The first...
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A Vintage Notion
Mention vintage to most makers and their hearts skip - whether it’s fashion and style, home decor, notions and tools, or methods and techniques, there is an appreciation for the past. There are different reasons for admiring vintage and one of them for me is honoring what led us as makers, sewists, designers, and stylists to where we are today.
My mother taught me how to sew I am not only...
7 tags
Mini Gardens
So I know it’s the middle of winter but I couldn’t resist writing about some of the exceptionally cute miniature planters that seem to be popping up in the handmade blogosphere.
{Shell-Potted Succulents from radmegan}
Succulents are hardy and easy to care for and if you’re apartment dwelling like myself, what a perfect way to...
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Etsy Wednesday
Here in Massachusetts it’s been a very mild winter so far but it’s getting colder and rumors of snow abound. For me, cold weather, snow, and little sunlight mean my mood takes a dip so I thought this would be a good opportunity to feature some Etsy finds that promote warmth and comfort.
Why not make yourself a hot cup of tea with Organic White Jasmine Loose Leaf Tea from The Cozy...
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Holiday Fashion
Hi Readers! I thought about it was time to make a post about the dresses that I made for the holiday season. The first you got a glimpse of in this post where I was especially excited about the tulip sleeves. Here’s the finished dress:
For the base pattern, I used the Dirndl Dress that comes with the Built By Wendy Dresses book (which I highly...
3 tags
Silk Charmeuse, A Love Story
Stopping by the fabric store, or any crafty type shop is a test of my willpower. I nearly always have to suppress the urge to run around like a crazy person, pile everything into my arms and/or basket, and purchase it in the midst of a craft supply induced haze before I realize what I’ve done.
Occasionally I’ll visit a local shop on my lunch break if I need something for a current...
December 2011
3 posts
4 tags
Handmade Dishes - Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This time of year lends itself to such rich sights, smells, and warm fuzzy feelings. What better expression of that than maple roasted sweet potatoes with pecans? I made this dish for my family’s Christmas dinner and not only was it delicious, but it filled the house with a sweet spiced smell worthy of the holidays. {Recipe courtesy of Budget Bytes}
Find the recipe and step by...
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Holiday Ornament Roundup
Here are a few of my favorite diy holiday ornaments that I’ve seen floating around the blogosphere this season!
{Felted Bell Ornaments, Washi Tape Ornaments, Pom Pom Ornaments, Clay Lollipop Ornaments, Simple Statement Ornaments, Candy Cane Marbled Ornaments, Vintage Felt Baubles, Balls Up Ornaments}
Happy Holidays!
♥
8 tags
Chicken Soup for the Handmade Soul
You look familiar, have we met?
Yes my friends, I have been away for quite some time. I do apologize! My dream world is one where “life” never impedes on crafting and making, but sometimes it’s inevitable. I hope you can forgive my neglect.
With that said, I thought I’d share some of the things I’ve been working on for my comeback:
First is my holly berry dress -
...
October 2011
8 posts
4 tags
Etsy Wednesday
I went to the front page of Etsy and knew exactly what I had to feature.
This gorgeous piece from memake is further evidence that my relatively new-found realization that I need more clutches is totally justified.
How about this chic clutch from SatuKallioDesign?
I love the pleats in this sweet clutch from olive tree textiles:
Check back soon for a clutch of my very own creation (made...
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Color Inspiration: Berry
Even though my palette for the Fall Palette Challenge is fairly neutral, I always find berry tones appropriate for the season. They’re so classic and versatile! Try using this palette in an upcoming project.
{Birthday Cake from FoodGawker, Liberty of London from PurlSoho, Mulberry Earrings from A Nordic Rose, forever yummy from Essie, Marchesa Resort 2010 from A Glamorous Little...
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Scarf Knit Along - Cables
Hi friends! This post discusses the last technique you need in order to make the Irish Hiking Scarf for our Knit Along.
A quick note before we get started - there’s now a flickr group where you can upload all your pictures of your scarf progress! I’d love to see pictures from all stages, and any problem spots that you need help with. You can find the group...
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Sewing Summit Wrap Up
I do apologize readers, but I must forgo this week’s Etsy Wednesday to report on something very special. This past weekend was the very 1st Sewing Summit, held in Salt Lake City and founded by the wonderful Erin Singleton and Amy Ellis.
It was an incredible experience! I got to explore the city, take some great classes and meet some amazing people.
First up was the Shop Hop where we went...
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Scarf Knit Along - Knit and Purl
Today’s post will cover the most basic stitches used in knitting and the only ones used in the Irish Hiking Scarf pattern for our Knit Along!
So you’ve cast on your first row of stitches (42 for the Irish Hiking Scarf) and you’re ready for your second row. Hold the needle with the stitches on it in your left hand and the empty needle in your right.
Now, there are two ways you...
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Etsy Wednesday
Okay, so technically it’s Etsy Thursday… I wasn’t able to post yesterday because I was preparing to go to the Sewing Summit (more on that later!) but I still wanted to showcase some wonderful Etsy finds.
Friends, scarves have been on my mind lately. I’ve come to realize how versatile, useful, and fashionable this simple accessory can be. A nice cozy scarf (like the Irish...
6 tags
Scarf Knit Along - Casting On
Today we’ll be talking about how to cast on the stitches to begin your scarf. There are numerous ways to cast on stitches and many knitters have personal preferences. If you have a favorite, feel free to use it! I’ll explaining the simplest method, which will work perfectly for this project. All you’ll need for this step is one of your needles and your yarn.
Remember, if you are...
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Scarf Knit Along - Introduction and Supplies
Hi Friends! I know I was MIA last week and I do apologize but I have some exciting news. A Maker’s Affair is starting its very first knit along!
The pattern we’ll be using is the Irish Hiking Scarf from helloyarn.com. It’s a very simple scarf pattern that yields a beautiful result. Whip one up and stay nice and cozy this upcoming season!
Since...
September 2011
13 posts
5 tags
Tips and Techniques
I am always eager to expand my base of crafty knowledge as well as my reserve of tools and supplies. This wonderful chart and accompanying article from DesignSponge is a great resource for doing just that.
Adhesives are a fundamental part of many handmade projects so learn which ones will work for you!
♥
5 tags
Etsy Wednesday
Just recently I’ve been intrigued by the diy and decor possibilities of vintage suitcases. I’ve found beautiful images of stacked suitcases being used as side tables like these:
as well as some other creative ideas:
{DIY chair from a vintage suitcase - See Kate Sew}
...
3 tags
The Wonderful World of Botanical Drawings
When I was a fine arts major in college, I discovered, and now continue to be fascinated by, the combination of scientific precision and organic whimsy contained in botanical drawings.
Check out this brilliant print from Wolfie & The Sneak:
There’s so much for the eye to dissect, and yet the image as a whole comes together seamlessly. If you look closely, the bold line use...
5 tags
Transition
I always feel a strong sense of dread as the weather gets cooler and winter approaches; the lack of sunlight, the cold, the grey… it’s all just a little depressing.
However, this morning on my way to work I couldn’t help but notice the way the sunlight cut through the clear air, and how comforting the cool breeze felt on my face.
This season, my goal is to take a step back,...
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Etsy Wednesday
Today’s Etsy Wednesday is a little different (but equally good!) - I’ll be featuring one shop - The Whirlwind. They specialize in “handmade jewelry, vintage lace necklaces, embroidery, [and] funky fabrics.”
Their use of color, detail, and composition create beautiful stand alone pieces but I can also imagine how nicely they would compliment a variety of outfits and...
3 tags
Fall Palette Challenge: Fabrics and Patterns
This is the last step before I dive into sewing my garments for Colette Patterns’ Fall Palette Challenge! Here’s some snippets of the fabric I’ll be using:
As for the patterns, for my basic blouse, I’ll be using the light pink cotton with Colette Patterns’ Sencha blouse, version 2. I love this pattern because it combines simplicity and versatility with some...
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Fall Palette Challenge: The Pieces
Now that I have my color choices for Colette Patterns’ Fall Palette Challenge, It’s time to layout the actual pieces I’m going to make. I’ve decided to try and make a well-rounded little collection since I’m pretty much starting from scratch as far as fall clothes go.
So are my choices along with some inspiration pictures from my Pinterest board:
Full skirt -
...
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Next up are some prints from one of my favorite artists, Jessica Swift.
The one above is actually hanging on the wall of my craft room!
Click on the images to find their listings or go to her shop and check out the wide array of beautiful prints she has to offer!
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Etsy Wednesday
Hi there! Today’s Etsy Wednesday is all about prints. What better way to get some fabulous original art hung on your walls for a reasonable price? Here’s a print from jamieshelman that I’ve had in my favorites for a while and just might snatch up:
Be sure to check out the rest of the shop and I promise you’ll fall in love.
♥
4 tags
Fall Palette Challenge: The Colors
The blogoshpere is abuzz with the discussion of fall color palettes so I thought I’d join in. Also, I’m participating (you should to!) in Colette Patterns’ Fall Palette Challenge and I’m really excited to get going.
First, I gathered some images on Pinterest that had colors I was interested in.
...
August 2011
21 posts
1 tag
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Etsy Wednesday
Hi friends! Today’s Etsy Wednesday is all about fridge magnets.
I was blown away by the number of noteworthy magnets to be found on Etsy - who knew there was something besides food that could make me excited about having a fridge?
First up, tiny magnets from uncommon. Stay tuned for more!
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Creative Spaces
Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved to redecorate. Back in my younger years, my mom was a seamstress and crafter and my dad was a woodworker so there were always plenty of extra materials lying around. I used to rearrange my furniture, paint murals on my walls, and build/reconstruct pieces for for bedroom on a regular basis. I felt so empowered and enlivened by what I could come up...
4 tags
The Embellished Pillow: Applique and Lace
The final technique for the Embellished Pillow is applying applique and lace. Applique is another technique that lends itself to a wide breadth of knowledge and prowess but for our purposes, we’ll be keeping it simple. If you’re interested in applique, might I suggest Applique Your Way by Kayte Terry.
This is the time to use some of those scraps you couldn’t bare to throw away....
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The Embellished Pillow: Buttons and Beads
For this next section on embellishment, let’s explore how to use buttons and beads to jazz up our pillow covers.
Materials:
1. Buttons and/or beads - you can choose big beads, small beads, buttons with two holes or four, buttons with shanks, even shrinky dink buttons!
2. Hand sewing needle and scissors
3. Sewing thread or fun colored embroidery floss
4. Your pillow pieces
...
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The Embellished Pillow: Embroidery
Hi Friends! I do apologize for the lateness of this post. Things have been a little crazy. But here we go -
Today, we’ll mostly be focusing on embellishment techniques but keep in mind your fabric and construction technique as well! Consider what type of embellishment you want to use when choosing your fabric. For embroidery, try a plain fabric with an obvious weave, such as linen. For...
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Etsy Wednesday - Embellishment Inspiration
Since it’s Etsy Wednesday as well as Power of the Pillow week, I thought we could use today to gather a little inspiration for our next pillow project - The Embellished Pillow. This could include applique, embroidery, additions such as buttons, beads, sequins, or whatever your heart desires! Inspiration for this project doesn’t necessarily need to come in the form of a pillow - check...
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The Power of the Pillow: Envelope Style
Hi friends! Start your week off right and make your own envelope style pillow cover in the first tutorial of A Maker’s Affair Home Decor Series: The Power of the Pillow.
1. First you’ll need to cut three pieces of fabric.
The first piece will be the front of your pillow cover. It should be the size you want your finished pillow to be plus seam allowances. (I used 1/2 inch seam...
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May I Have the Envelope Please?
Today is our introduction to the plain and simple envelope style pillow. Since this pillow will be free from embellishment, experiment with interesting prints or bold colors and let the fabric do the work for you!
You can also try using different types of fabric to give your pillow appeal. Doesn’t the blue Dupioni Silk pillow cover look luxurious? Or consider a fabric with a...
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The Power of the Pillow
A great canvas to practice and implement your diy skills and handmade craftiness is home decor. Home decor projects can range from very simple to ultra complicated and use a wonderfully wide range of materials. It can even get overwhelming! But don’t worry, simple can still be stylish.
One of the simplest projects with the option for almost endless customization is the throw pillow. Now,...
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Etsy Wednesday
Want to know a great way to add color, warmth, texture, and comfort to a room with just one piece? Grab a throw pillow! Pick from some of these lovely choices and be sure to stay tuned for tomorrow’s post.
This pillow from OliveHandmade would be a charming addition to any couch or bed!
Here’s a pillow from BedBuggs that’s feminine and...
1 tag
Hello Kitty
Good afternoon friends! I must admit, I had big plans for today’s post but I’ve been foiled again by the most treacherous day of the week - Monday. Please be distracted by cats -
Cora decided that the water was hers due to the very clear indication on the side of the mug :)
♥
4 tags
Fabulous Friday
It’s finally here, the most wonderful day of the week. Friday is always filled with such potential, hope, and relief. Might I suggest that you compliment your weekend celebrations with this refreshing idea for infused water from Emily over at Cupcakes and Cashmere:
Click on the picture for a simple yet brilliant way to enhance any type of get together. Why not even keep a...
6 tags
Color Inspiration
This peachy pink color palette creates the perfect mood for the warm, sweet days of late summer.
Wouldn’t the cami above be divine for a romantic August evening? Click on the photo for a Threads article on how to make your own using high-end couture...
