tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85421025159620518452024-02-07T19:59:46.052-06:00Sarah Jane SewsSarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.comBlogger145125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-69032325934579068452014-11-01T12:26:00.000-05:002014-11-01T12:26:15.782-05:00A Harry Potter Halloween III: Characters Most People Don't Remember Edition<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ARVJYaCbeo/VFUL0O46GKI/AAAAAAAAOhw/FMFhAqSp3Ng/s1600/harry%2Bpotter%2Bfamily%2Bhalloween%2Bcostumes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ARVJYaCbeo/VFUL0O46GKI/AAAAAAAAOhw/FMFhAqSp3Ng/s1600/harry%2Bpotter%2Bfamily%2Bhalloween%2Bcostumes.jpg" height="640" width="440" /> </a></div>
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I'm sure this will come as a major shock, but we chose Harry Potter as our family costume theme again this year (<a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2011/10/harry-potter-halloween.html" target="_blank">2011's costumes</a> and <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2013/10/a-harry-potter-halloween-2013-edition.html" target="_blank">last year's</a>). At this point, we're starting to dip into the secondary and probably tertiary characters, so whenever an average person (read: non-obsessed) asked who we were going to be, there was generally a lot of explanation on my part, followed by them smiling and nodding and most likely still having no idea what I was talking about. Ray was Professor Lupin, I was Tonks, E was Luna Lovegood, and O was a "generic Slytherin student."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspiration photos</td></tr>
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Last week was <a href="http://blog.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">Kid's Clothes Week</a>, and while I didn't officially sew along and keep up on the blogging this time (I have such a major backlog from summer still to post about!), I did make a couple of the kids' costume elements. As much as I love crazy costumes, I was happy that this time their things are all re-wearable on a daily basis.<br />
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I started with Luna's skirt, the Montmartre from Ottobre Design 4/2010. It's a pleated woven skirt with a knit fold-over waistband and an elastic casing. I made the size 98 width/104 length and cut the waistband only half as high to eliminate the fold. I also cut the waistband off of some RTW knit shorts and serged them on at the same time as the skirt's waistband. I love how it turned out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOR4SoC4St4/VFULsD48n7I/AAAAAAAAOg4/Nbr-iJaIT9Y/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Montmartre-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOR4SoC4St4/VFULsD48n7I/AAAAAAAAOg4/Nbr-iJaIT9Y/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Montmartre-skirt.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stars glow in the dark! I think the "real" Luna would approve</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBt9UtnJvneYF3m-oRe50JP4XjRA_72WraQ6r7qpQMNmy9DWL5mY-NI5WDUNPOCKrQtdWRUkPKPnKj7XQq7tjlOWD0MflMe-mTL3Kp2tWwtp2EQhbsRE0SmKA80CJi2kBoskDPwL5O0Do/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Montmartre-skirt-attached-undershorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBt9UtnJvneYF3m-oRe50JP4XjRA_72WraQ6r7qpQMNmy9DWL5mY-NI5WDUNPOCKrQtdWRUkPKPnKj7XQq7tjlOWD0MflMe-mTL3Kp2tWwtp2EQhbsRE0SmKA80CJi2kBoskDPwL5O0Do/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Montmartre-skirt-attached-undershorts.jpg" height="640" width="446" /></a></div>
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Next up was a Hogwarts sweater for O to go with his button-down, black jeans, and Slytherin tie from Ebay. I had some charcoal grey sweater knit in my stash and sewed it up using my old standby, the <a href="http://www.fishsticksdesigns.com/patterns/shirts/the-charlie-tee-hoodie-big-kid-sizes/" target="_blank">Fishsticks Designs Charlie Tee</a>. I sized up, as recommended for the hoodie version, and winged a v-neck based loosely on the <a href="http://mamudesign.blogspot.com/2009/10/sabrina-medley.html" target="_blank">Mamu Design Sabrina pattern</a>. I was a little nervous about both the fabric and the v-neck, since I'd never used either before, but it went together really seamlessly (heh). I serged everything except the neckline and had zero problems.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wrj3oeErvLQ/VFULqJkoFfI/AAAAAAAAOgg/lAPdQH8X8IA/s1600/Fishsticks-Designs-Charlie-tee-v-neck-sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wrj3oeErvLQ/VFULqJkoFfI/AAAAAAAAOgg/lAPdQH8X8IA/s1600/Fishsticks-Designs-Charlie-tee-v-neck-sweater.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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So much faster than knitting a sweater!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1urXTFEcYIc/VFULzpSmK7I/AAAAAAAAOhk/tQ3KXoZxcKY/s1600/fishsticks-designs-charlie-tee-v-neck-sweater-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1urXTFEcYIc/VFULzpSmK7I/AAAAAAAAOhk/tQ3KXoZxcKY/s1600/fishsticks-designs-charlie-tee-v-neck-sweater-2.jpg" height="400" width="368" /></a></div>
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His shirt is untucked underneath, so it looks kind of bunchy, but the fit is great. I think he'll get a lot of wear out of this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4N7egRXaZdKe7k-X2CXQkBYxHz3sGJ04Ugkzz6OYE1KgrJ4RAh2YFjENj4u35Zxw9Wpt3RgW-SCtiJra2WMryCaJtfQqkBa4kitRFSyjjHP7VEgoS3bo6q4dh1KAOhIogaL0vYJjsaTY/s1600/slytherin-spell-casting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4N7egRXaZdKe7k-X2CXQkBYxHz3sGJ04Ugkzz6OYE1KgrJ4RAh2YFjENj4u35Zxw9Wpt3RgW-SCtiJra2WMryCaJtfQqkBa4kitRFSyjjHP7VEgoS3bo6q4dh1KAOhIogaL0vYJjsaTY/s1600/slytherin-spell-casting.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then this week I made E's Luna jacket from the Ottobre 1/2010 Variksenmarja coat pattern, size 104. It's meant to be corduroy with a lining, but I made it unlined out of sweatshirt knit that I ordered online. IRL it's more of a burgundy than the pink I thought it was going to be and as it appears in most of these photos. I was a little bummed about that, but it turned out so cute that I'm over it. I rounded the collar and cut about 4" from the length.
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BJNIGauhknk/VFULsRrswPI/AAAAAAAAOg8/9PyS0i_jMuI/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-Coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BJNIGauhknk/VFULsRrswPI/AAAAAAAAOg8/9PyS0i_jMuI/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-Coat.jpg" height="640" width="515" /></a></div>
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The sleeves were also just about perfect for her before I hemmed them, so to eek out as much length as possible, I used single-fold bias tape for the hems.</div>
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The neckline is finished with the same thrifted vintage bias tape. This technique always makes me inordinately happy.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzpMu-V5_VM/VFULw5Rs74I/AAAAAAAAOhQ/gK-lAM2M6sY/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-neckline-bias-trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzpMu-V5_VM/VFULw5Rs74I/AAAAAAAAOhQ/gK-lAM2M6sY/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-neckline-bias-trim.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bj5aAK171mI/VFULySZOR_I/AAAAAAAAOhY/hMesw48y5cs/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-sleeve-detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bj5aAK171mI/VFULySZOR_I/AAAAAAAAOhY/hMesw48y5cs/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-sleeve-detail.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></div>
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This might be my favorite project all year.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YAszKnr83k/VFULtHmacdI/AAAAAAAAOhI/I8HrceFsoMA/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YAszKnr83k/VFULtHmacdI/AAAAAAAAOhI/I8HrceFsoMA/s1600/Ottobre-Design-Variksenmarja-coat-back.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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The lion hat was from a thrifted costume that I cut the hood from and finished with bias tape. We added tights and legwarmers over her AFOs and her usual footwear, Chuck Taylors, which Luna also wears.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6wxAe7AmIo/VFULqKm55FI/AAAAAAAAOgk/WcU5JqldVSk/s1600/Luna-Lovegood-Remus-Lupin-costumes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o6wxAe7AmIo/VFULqKm55FI/AAAAAAAAOgk/WcU5JqldVSk/s1600/Luna-Lovegood-Remus-Lupin-costumes.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was super windy last night when we were taking pictures. E was not a fan of that part.</td></tr>
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Lupin's suit and tie were from the Goodwill Outlet (textiles by the pound!!). There were matching pants too, but they were several sizes too big and I ran out of time to alter them, so Ray just wore some brown pants and a dress shirt he already had, and we added some facial scars with makeup.</div>
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I had planned to sew a more Tonksish coat for myself, but of course ran out of time. On the plus side, our costumes were actually ready before we needed them, and I was never sewing into the middle of the night. My sweater, hoodie, t-shirt, and leggings were a combo of things I already owned and bought knowing I would wear them otherwise. I also got to dig out my vegan Doc Martens that were a College Sarah wardrobe staple.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I remembered them being a lot more comfortable. Those suckers are heavy!</td></tr>
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The driving gloves and wig were Ebay purchases. I wasn't expecting to like the pink hair at all, since I don't do much pink, and pretty much never pastel. But I really like it! Too bad I'm both too cheap and too lazy to do it for real and keep it up.</div>
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I made the necklace from faux leather and ribbon clasps from Joann's and buttons from St. Vincent de Paul. I don't know about you, but our St. Vinnie's has a fantastic button selection, and they're so much cheaper than buying them new. I always try to check there first on the rare occasions that I plan ahead.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDK1rS3LGDiboXDsD-tIodWd_Nho8BePQVhNQtoHKDEvqT1Lc7hWXTMiYdnan5mUiSzUsC55HQx43uObmql-4dvJcoffaC02BFVLRzoTOw5qE1rtwqYIXukrp-Nka9D7brUVdhcWzf7w/s1600/IMG_20141029_153613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDK1rS3LGDiboXDsD-tIodWd_Nho8BePQVhNQtoHKDEvqT1Lc7hWXTMiYdnan5mUiSzUsC55HQx43uObmql-4dvJcoffaC02BFVLRzoTOw5qE1rtwqYIXukrp-Nka9D7brUVdhcWzf7w/s1600/IMG_20141029_153613.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1_LqHlZzOY/VFUL0TTuZTI/AAAAAAAAOh0/jP0gJFyQCIY/s1600/harry-potter-family-halloween-costumes-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q1_LqHlZzOY/VFUL0TTuZTI/AAAAAAAAOh0/jP0gJFyQCIY/s1600/harry-potter-family-halloween-costumes-2.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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E was giving O some serious side-eye by the time we finished with photos. It cracked me up when I saw this one.</div>
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I think she was confused by his spell-casting. He was very, very into it.</div>
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Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-2529049732000333382014-07-28T11:26:00.000-05:002014-07-28T11:26:27.458-05:00KCW Days 6&7: A Bee Swimsuit for E!My last project for KCW was a much-needed swimsuit for E. Her butt is literally three sizes smaller than her chest, so RTW just doesn't work. Luckily, I won the adorable <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196542742/the-cosi-swimsuit-pdf-pattern?ref=listing-0" target="_blank">Cosi Swimsuit pattern </a>from one of <a href="http://www.callajaire.com/" target="_blank">Call Ajaire's </a>Monthly MashUp giveaways (along with the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/190240008/shandiin-tank-tunic-pdf-sewing-pattern?ref=listing-1" target="_blank">Shandiin</a>, which I'm looking forward to sewing up soon, too!). The Cosi has a ton of variations, but none of them were quite what I wanted. A two-piece is much easier for diaper changes, but I prefer more coverage than a bikini. I also wanted the bottoms to completely cover her diaper, as well as offer more sun protection.<br />
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So with all those things in mind, and <a href="http://www.thefabricfairy.com/honeycomb-swimsuit-fabric.html" target="_blank">the perfect fabric from The Fabric Fairy</a> for my little bee-lover, I came up with this skirted tankini, using a combination of the Cosi, <a href="http://www.jalie.com/jalie2796-multi-sports-skort-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">Jalie 2796</a>, and <a href="http://pattythesnugbug.com/2011/circle-skirt-calculator-for-the-drafting-of-full-half-and-34-skirts-with-bonus-grading-worksheet/" target="_blank">this circle skirt calculator.</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4hccuU-Qys/U9ZxubJLe4I/AAAAAAAALE8/8HCIis2B5Q4/s1600/bee-swimsuit-flat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4hccuU-Qys/U9ZxubJLe4I/AAAAAAAALE8/8HCIis2B5Q4/s1600/bee-swimsuit-flat.jpg" height="293" width="400" /></a></div>
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For the top, I cut a straight size 5 of view D, lengthening the pieces 2" past the peplum line. I lined it with some nude swimsuit lining from Joann's and sewed it up as directed. The only problem I had was topstitching the top edge through the elastic. I don't know if it was me or my machine (probably a bit of both), but even with my beloved walking foot it didn't go well. The fabric kept getting stuck, and I'd have to yank it backwards. I ended up ripping out my first attempt and trying again. It's better, but I'm still not very happy with it. If anyone has advice, I'd love to hear it! The hem along the bottom was fine, so I'm guessing it had something to do with the bulk with the elastic??<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA_d4hXF2dRS58C6whBAp1nRf9KGUuInxIQW_EmiATedoNwpTSkATpJPHCpOA6UZpZfRFXtT11Yygzu2032sbaFkd55ZogMkzSZaIPYesQXsYSpUMf_Xq6UL75h_yYgv3ERa_3vLjFqg/s1600/bee-swimsuit-front-close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBA_d4hXF2dRS58C6whBAp1nRf9KGUuInxIQW_EmiATedoNwpTSkATpJPHCpOA6UZpZfRFXtT11Yygzu2032sbaFkd55ZogMkzSZaIPYesQXsYSpUMf_Xq6UL75h_yYgv3ERa_3vLjFqg/s1600/bee-swimsuit-front-close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6_H2FUJj-sE/U9ZxvZ-bk8I/AAAAAAAALFU/Rat47RZq_R8/s1600/bee-swimsuit-hem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6_H2FUJj-sE/U9ZxvZ-bk8I/AAAAAAAALFU/Rat47RZq_R8/s1600/bee-swimsuit-hem.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I will probably shorten the straps (if I ever get around to it!), but I'm very pleased with the fit overall.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOQ2ImMadVvs9rU3QEQbSuhuvb5OCEM710_EOqeY_9o7M5rYMuZJthxeEbIXanUvvy5pcdpF4QLOgNiknMj8fiidfMjB3g1_e8aZn6wVIDKHd1BA9FXf6KigDYGuhEhW23A6u8Y_wW6s/s1600/bee-swimsuit-big-smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyOQ2ImMadVvs9rU3QEQbSuhuvb5OCEM710_EOqeY_9o7M5rYMuZJthxeEbIXanUvvy5pcdpF4QLOgNiknMj8fiidfMjB3g1_e8aZn6wVIDKHd1BA9FXf6KigDYGuhEhW23A6u8Y_wW6s/s1600/bee-swimsuit-big-smile.jpg" height="640" width="446" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T_afKl0rXyE/U9Zxr8oFVMI/AAAAAAAALEg/6QJ-UO9R0Y0/s1600/bee-swimsuit-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T_afKl0rXyE/U9Zxr8oFVMI/AAAAAAAALEg/6QJ-UO9R0Y0/s1600/bee-swimsuit-back.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
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For the bottoms, I used the Jalie compression shorts <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2014/07/kcw-day-5-farbenmix-henrika-jalie-2796.html" target="_blank">again</a>, but this time with the size I inseam, and sandwiched a 7.25" long circle skirt between the shorts and the waistband. The skirt was small enough that I could cut it in one piece. I did make the waist opening a tiny bit too big, so there's a bit of gathering on the front when it's flat, but not once she's wearing it.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDG-15ocL6w/U9ZxwRxW0lI/AAAAAAAALFc/0O9tJXTKDsM/s1600/bee-swimsuit-skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDG-15ocL6w/U9ZxwRxW0lI/AAAAAAAALFc/0O9tJXTKDsM/s1600/bee-swimsuit-skirt.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'm very happy with both the fit and the coverage of the bottoms also.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X3ttbglfpCY/U9ZxwZ64z3I/AAAAAAAALFY/5mDlBodPR8Q/s1600/bee-swimsuit-side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X3ttbglfpCY/U9ZxwZ64z3I/AAAAAAAALFY/5mDlBodPR8Q/s1600/bee-swimsuit-side.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqmUnThtTxg/U9ZxrEjClEI/AAAAAAAALEc/B8uYUOfLGso/s1600/bee-swimsuit-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iqmUnThtTxg/U9ZxrEjClEI/AAAAAAAALEc/B8uYUOfLGso/s1600/bee-swimsuit-2.jpg" height="640" width="442" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She appears to be happy with it also.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yfvx6iRVaEE/U9Zx0voH0zI/AAAAAAAALF8/YlwHHvyPGs8/s1600/bee-swimsuit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yfvx6iRVaEE/U9Zx0voH0zI/AAAAAAAALF8/YlwHHvyPGs8/s1600/bee-swimsuit1.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
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I have plenty of the bee fabric left, so I'm going to make her a rash guard next. I also threatened to make myself a bee bikini, which horrified O. Hahaha. <br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-70005625828273216732014-07-26T10:45:00.004-05:002014-07-26T10:45:48.316-05:00KCW Day 5: Farbenmix Henrika & Jalie 2796 ShortsDays three and four got away from me, but yesterday I went to work and busted out a dress and shorts for E. Tee-shirt dresses are my favorite. (Okay, I say a lot of things are my faves, but they're so quick and cute and comfy!)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hv02Rl5GZ9Y/U9PHxDESUGI/AAAAAAAALAc/gbwSgZm46YM/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-and-jalie-2796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hv02Rl5GZ9Y/U9PHxDESUGI/AAAAAAAALAc/gbwSgZm46YM/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-and-jalie-2796.jpg" height="276" width="400" /></a></div>
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The dress is a modified <a href="http://www.farbenmix.de/english/henrika-en.pdf" target="_blank">Farbenmix Henrika</a>. I made her <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/04/kcwc-days-3-4-farbenmix-henrika.html" target="_blank">one in size 98/104</a> for the Spring 2012 (!) KCW, and it's really just fitting her nicely <a href="http://instagram.com/p/o38ZNdPfKa/?modal=true" target="_blank">now</a>, so I used the same size. For this one, I raised the back neckline and scooped the front more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aD6I5IKcABc/U9PHx-DH4MI/AAAAAAAALAo/VhzE--Vxgy8/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-back-neck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aD6I5IKcABc/U9PHx-DH4MI/AAAAAAAALAo/VhzE--Vxgy8/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-back-neck.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back neckline</td></tr>
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I'd added an inch of length to the bottom last time around. I added another two inches to the middle (where I figured a lengthen/shorten line would have been) for a total of 3". The original skirt has four panels, but I didn't want the extra seams this time, so I doubled the pieces to make just a front and back. It's nearly a circle skirt, so when it was time to hem, I first serged the bottom with the differential feed set to 2.0. This gathered it a bit and made it really easy to work the ease in. I will definitely do that with similar knit skirts from now on! Added the neck and sleeve bands and it was done.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbPrieR2654/U9PHzDYSGRI/AAAAAAAALA0/vn784pdhQTg/s1600/farbenmix-henrika.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbPrieR2654/U9PHzDYSGRI/AAAAAAAALA0/vn784pdhQTg/s1600/farbenmix-henrika.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vjy-GGCiBCk/U9PHzoZh-4I/AAAAAAAALA8/ssIfB8ifeDQ/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-neckband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vjy-GGCiBCk/U9PHzoZh-4I/AAAAAAAALA8/ssIfB8ifeDQ/s1600/farbenmix-henrika-neckband.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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While she will mostly wear this with some pink and white striped capri leggings that she already has, I also wanted some brown undershorts for when it's too warm for capris. I traced <a href="http://www.jalie.com/jalie2796-multi-sports-skort-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">Jalie 2796</a> for that purpose last year and never got around to making any, so I was all set to make a quick pair. She has a super tiny waist and butt, so they are a size F for the width (and length, not sure what past Sarah was thinking on that -- they're quite short!) and size I for the rise. When I finished, they looked impossibly small, but they're actually a perfect fit, other than the leg length. They do cover her diaper, though, which was my main goal. I'll lengthen the legs quite a bit for more modesty in the future, though.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-32npiDCg8E4/U9PH0hjKNrI/AAAAAAAALBI/XQ4JTXD3gFE/s1600/jalie-2796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-32npiDCg8E4/U9PH0hjKNrI/AAAAAAAALBI/XQ4JTXD3gFE/s1600/jalie-2796.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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The main fabric is pretty thin rib knit, which is one of those stash fabrics from before I knew what I was looking for in a knit. I'm not crazy about it, and it was a pain to hem, but for something that's going to be covered most of the time, it's fine. I used ribbing for the waist, since I didn't think the other stuff had enough recovery to hold up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AcrvMgpOMlc/U9PHz5XgmvI/AAAAAAAALBA/tKYZDQFzh4U/s1600/jalie-2796-crappy-hem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AcrvMgpOMlc/U9PHz5XgmvI/AAAAAAAALBA/tKYZDQFzh4U/s1600/jalie-2796-crappy-hem.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not my best work, but it got the job done.</td></tr>
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-56707109124355454902014-07-23T12:03:00.000-05:002014-07-23T12:03:02.912-05:00KCW Days 1&2: Upcycled Pillowcase Dress and Charlie TeeHi! It's been a while, huh? I have a bunch of things on my to-blog list, but I've been lazy about it this summer. <a href="http://www.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">Kid's Clothes Week</a> is always good incentive to blog, though, so I'm planning to get back to a little more regular posting again.<br />
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Monday was mostly prep, along with pretty much the easiest dress ever for E. I was inspired by the <a href="http://www.scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com/2011/08/how-to-sew-tiered-pillowcase-style.html" target="_blank">Tiered Pillowcase-style Dress</a>, but made it from a linen skirt I'd thrifted for myself a couple of years ago and never wore. Pastel pink is just not a color I wear. BUT it made for a super cute dress for the girl. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---MhadSay40/U8_mKjyVx4I/AAAAAAAAKs0/Io-_4Nwy8Gw/s1600/pillowcase-dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---MhadSay40/U8_mKjyVx4I/AAAAAAAAKs0/Io-_4Nwy8Gw/s1600/pillowcase-dress.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
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Since it was already tiered, pretty much all I had to do was cut the arm holes and create the casing for the drawstring. I even used the original drawstring from the skirt. Felt a little like cheating! I hemmed the armholes instead of using bias tape like the original tutorial. I also kept it the existing width, which is larger than the pattern called for. It's pretty roomy on Miss Skinny Minnie, but it also comes to mid-calf on her, so she'll be able to wear it for years.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O246cSfwuPA/U8_l4iry_CI/AAAAAAAAKsk/UqjuQTGHAGI/s1600/pillowcase-dress-neckline-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O246cSfwuPA/U8_l4iry_CI/AAAAAAAAKsk/UqjuQTGHAGI/s1600/pillowcase-dress-neckline-1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closer to the actual color</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I thought I was done that night, but when I woke up yesterday, I decided I'd like it better with a centered bow. It looked kind of sad and droopy with that narrow of a drawstring. I ripped out the front casing, found a scrap of interfacing, and added two buttonholes. Much better! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHieFRXvW8s/U8_l5kz6V0I/AAAAAAAAKso/Pweh-6gs1JA/s1600/pillowcase-dress-neckline-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHieFRXvW8s/U8_l5kz6V0I/AAAAAAAAKso/Pweh-6gs1JA/s1600/pillowcase-dress-neckline-2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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It was crazy hot yesterday, so this was a perfect breezy little dress for E to wear.<br />
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Yesterday's make was O's billionth <a href="http://www.fishsticksdesigns.com/patterns/shirts/the-charlie-tee-hoodie-big-kid-sizes/" target="_blank">Charlie Tee</a> (okay, really the fifth one, I think). He found this Adult XL Stonehenge tee when we were at the Goodwill Outlet a couple of weeks ago and asked me to make it into one in his size. <br />
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Speaking of, is there a Goodwill Outlet near you? There's one by my aunt's house, so we go pretty often. Textiles for $1.79/pound? Sign me up! I have a ridiculous pile of things to upcycle, but at least this shirt is one thing done.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oL9K6iolLkk/U8_l5VCZG7I/AAAAAAAAKss/Ph8AGwEhf8k/s1600/stonehenge-tee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oL9K6iolLkk/U8_l5VCZG7I/AAAAAAAAKss/Ph8AGwEhf8k/s1600/stonehenge-tee.jpg" height="640" width="442" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightened a little, but still looks mostly like a black blob. Ha.</td></tr>
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Not a whole lot to say about something you've made so many times. I made my usual change of narrowing the neckband to 2". I also zigzagged the hem this time, since he's been popping the hems I've finished with a twin needle.<br />
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Now I should get to work on today's project!<br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-59689513810518701012014-05-09T11:46:00.001-05:002014-05-09T16:30:46.358-05:00Ottobre Summer Basic Running TopWhen I first discovered that you could buy wicking fabric a few years ago, I bought some questionable prints and colors in a coop, just because I was so excited about the existence of such things. And they've been sitting in my stash ever since, because well, kind of fugly. But with the convergence of the <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2014/04/announcing-spring-top-sewalong-2014/" target="_blank">Spring Top Sewalong</a> and the <a href="http://www.fehrtrade.com/article/822/announcing-the-spring-race-challenge" target="_blank">Spring Race Challenge</a>, I decided to just dig in. I wear a lot of things when I run that I wouldn't be caught dead in otherwise (see: super short skirts and leggings as pants), so I figured why not make a crazy top?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6TXQqboc_k/U20BG-pjfZI/AAAAAAAAGaw/2Kt1UNkPGqQ/s1600/Ottobre-Summer-Basic-running-shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6TXQqboc_k/U20BG-pjfZI/AAAAAAAAGaw/2Kt1UNkPGqQ/s1600/Ottobre-Summer-Basic-running-shirt.jpg" height="640" width="438" /></a></div>
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When I brought this fabric upstairs, Ray gave it the serious side-eye. I'm still not sure how I feel about it, but I think it's better sewn up than it was as yardage.<br />
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I used the Summer Basic top pattern from Ottobre Woman 2/2013. It doesn't get much simpler than two pattern pieces and some binding! This is a straight size 36, but for future makes, I will grade to a size 34 from the waist down. I like my running tops to have a looser fit through the middle, but where it comes in at the hips is just barely snug enough to stay up above my bum.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLdYofkMucI/U20BJS7hGxI/AAAAAAAAGa8/weJbCrVDEkM/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLdYofkMucI/U20BJS7hGxI/AAAAAAAAGa8/weJbCrVDEkM/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-back.jpg" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
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I followed the instructions as written, other than leaving out the clear elastic on the shoulder seams. I didn't think it would be necessary with this fabric and also was concerned about potential chafing on long runs. I even did the binding the Otto way, which I think is only the second time ever that I've done so. I usually go for the serge on and topstitch method. I'm really happy with how it turned out, especially the double needle topstitching.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBzZCgEK3J9C37z0iSY5HwRSy1O5G0O6prflu0zRsLH-hJkp0w5Kx3iPCtzpFJzlYhUscd66YAG4VDewVugXzUfTnzHsCNqfZWLbd1769VfmU-0zvI4rLqQsXmutNEBz8m0jCVP9lN_o/s1600/summer-basic-binding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDBzZCgEK3J9C37z0iSY5HwRSy1O5G0O6prflu0zRsLH-hJkp0w5Kx3iPCtzpFJzlYhUscd66YAG4VDewVugXzUfTnzHsCNqfZWLbd1769VfmU-0zvI4rLqQsXmutNEBz8m0jCVP9lN_o/s1600/summer-basic-binding.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I cut the neckline binding on the crosswise grain (I think? I always get lengthwise & crosswise confused) to get the stripes to to go the other way. Since this is a 4-way stretch fabric, it worked fine.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlQuzA-Ukps/U20BKBt_Q9I/AAAAAAAAGbE/OOloXaG59Gc/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlQuzA-Ukps/U20BKBt_Q9I/AAAAAAAAGbE/OOloXaG59Gc/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-side.jpg" height="640" width="430" /></a></div>
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I wore it on a 4-miler after I finished it up and was really happy with it. I can definitely see more of these in my future, both for running and casual wear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNK8nrBUDQw8gtPLJUG1u6PZ5FParvpKgH7lHYMg7OYBEEVnJ_dt6MR1TQoLyWfxaPYu3MJHbI4yVsDQ-lIWmwP1DXRkUOXhpGKnUfq69Cj9hqwa46lGbYzQFj3gxqzRtmWgDZoHZkvBk/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNK8nrBUDQw8gtPLJUG1u6PZ5FParvpKgH7lHYMg7OYBEEVnJ_dt6MR1TQoLyWfxaPYu3MJHbI4yVsDQ-lIWmwP1DXRkUOXhpGKnUfq69Cj9hqwa46lGbYzQFj3gxqzRtmWgDZoHZkvBk/s1600/summer-basic-running-top-2.jpg" height="640" width="404" /></a></div>
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What do you think about this print -- hideous, cute, or somewhere in between? I honestly can't decide. I also have a pale pink with tiny black flowers (everything about that is so not me) that is destined to be an <a href="http://www.fehrtrade.com/shop/784/xyt-workout-top-pattern" target="_blank">XYT</a> tank in the near future. <br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-81493399204682234242014-05-07T12:25:00.002-05:002014-05-07T12:33:02.357-05:00The Birthday Shirt: Lego Hero Factory Splitface Tee [with Template]Today is O's ninth birthday! Most years one of his presents is a special tee (earlier shirts: age <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahjanesews/8699317817/" target="_blank">5</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/05/star-wars-cargo-shorts-pool-noodle.html" target="_blank">7</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2013/05/os-birthday-tee-uss-constitution-style.html" target="_blank">8</a>), often one that he designs himself. We've been talking about this year's for quite a while. His first idea was a half gunmetal grey, half red shirt, a la the Lego Hero Factory character <a href="http://shop.lego.com/en-US/SPLITFACE-6218" target="_blank">Splitface</a>. Easy enough. Then he showed me the chest plate piece and I said, "Oh, why don't we freezer paper stencil on the design? That would be cool!" He quickly agreed. On the one hand, I didn't need to sew a shirt (although I did hem the sleeves of a long-sleeved tee to get one in the right color). On the other hand, I didn't look closely enough at the piece. It is super detailed! I could have simplified it, but O is a detail guy, so I knew he'd appreciate it if I made it as accurate as possible. I would not necessarily recommend that you try to replicate this in one day or cutting by hand with an x-acto knife. But that's what I did.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rppHz7ziiYQ/U2pnQj05JBI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/pi6OagJ3amQ/s1600/splitface-shirt-close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rppHz7ziiYQ/U2pnQj05JBI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/pi6OagJ3amQ/s1600/splitface-shirt-close.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started by taking a photo of the chest plate using a macro filter. Then I used <a href="http://www.spraypaintstencils.com/stenciltutorials/stenciltutorial1.html" target="_blank">this tutorial </a>(more or less) to make a stencil in Photoshop. I decided to stencil the black outlines and fill in the rest with a paintbrush. I'm sure there are simpler ways to do this, and you could definitely leave out more of the details and still get the general idea, but that's what I thought would work best for how we wanted it to look. We decided to leave out the part below the belt.<br />
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Cutting took around 2 1/2 hours, even leaving out some of the smallest details. My tips for such intricate freezer paper stencils (other than giving yourself a lot more time than I did) are to: <br />
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<li>Print out a copy on regular paper to use as a map of sorts to keep track of the pieces as you cut.</li>
<li>Keep the map and pieces on a tray so nothing gets lost. I used a jelly roll pan.</li>
<li>A hole punch works great for the tiny circles. </li>
<li>Have a tweezers handy! </li>
</ul>
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After all that time cutting, I was pretty worried I would screw it up, but the outline turned out great. Then I used a small -- very small -- paint brush to fill in the red and silver. You could also cut the stencil so that you're painting the silver and red parts and then add the outline after. It would be easier cutting for sure, but I wanted the placement of all the black elements to be exact. Yes, I may have a problem. The painting was actually really fun. If I had spread this project out over a few days, I would have enjoyed it a lot. It was cool to see it all come together. O was home by the time I was painting, and he was really encouraging about how it was looking. That was pretty adorable.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ncSDpfsqfUE/U2pnP-bqh_I/AAAAAAAAF7I/GQ4HVIsOmBI/s1600/splitface-shirt-close-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ncSDpfsqfUE/U2pnP-bqh_I/AAAAAAAAF7I/GQ4HVIsOmBI/s1600/splitface-shirt-close-2.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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He went to bed before I had finished the silver, though, so the final product reveal this morning. He was thrilled, which made the many hours so worth it. We both agreed that the image could have been a bit larger, but that it looks good anyway.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jLQLbHQrQTE/U2pnPtc_RlI/AAAAAAAAF7E/3jMbAdVeLag/s1600/splitface-shirt-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jLQLbHQrQTE/U2pnPtc_RlI/AAAAAAAAF7E/3jMbAdVeLag/s1600/splitface-shirt-1.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></div>
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He commented many times on how accurate all the details were and how I had only left out a few tiny things. He said something like, "Anyone who knows Lego Hero Factory would know right away that this is Splitface's chest plate!" Haha. I think that's a small target audience, especially since it's a discontinued model, but I'm so happy that he loves it.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mDFERLSjHs/U2pnPT9ZfeI/AAAAAAAAF68/zr4unvd2PFk/s1600/splitface-shirt-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mDFERLSjHs/U2pnPT9ZfeI/AAAAAAAAF68/zr4unvd2PFk/s1600/splitface-shirt-2.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1DWKNISVH0/U2pnt1TWcSI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/q6e2Aa1gczI/s1600/splitface-yay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j1DWKNISVH0/U2pnt1TWcSI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/q6e2Aa1gczI/s1600/splitface-yay.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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I can't imagine there are a lot of people out there who want a Splitface shirt and would like to put several hours into making one, but since I made the stencil template, I put it up <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1h3c2HK1YfIcGtSeVJzYkRGOUU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">here</a>. If anyone DOES make one, I'd love to see it!<br />
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Happy Birthday, O!Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-12235083421252135942014-05-03T17:03:00.001-05:002014-05-03T17:03:20.471-05:00A Trio of Lady SkatersI might have a bit of a Kitschy Coo <a href="http://kitschycoo.bigcartel.com/product/the-lady-skater-sewing-pattern-for-teens-and-women" target="_blank">Lady Skater</a> addiction. I made my first one back in March out of a jersey sheet, thinking it would just be a muslin, but it turned out so cute that I ended up finishing it up. The fabric's a bit thin, but it'll be great for around the house in the summer and is wearable in public with a slip. O took a quick phone pic for me when I made it. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WvFj7Z1Va5o/U2VdNjlIXmI/AAAAAAAAFuM/y_CSZgcQlrk/s1600/lady-skater-muslin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WvFj7Z1Va5o/U2VdNjlIXmI/AAAAAAAAFuM/y_CSZgcQlrk/s1600/lady-skater-muslin.jpg" height="640" width="404" /></a></div>
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The size 3 fit almost perfectly right off the bat; I just decided to <a href="http://www.sewalongs.com/hawthorn/hawthorn-wide-or-narrow-shoulder-adjustment" target="_blank">add 1/2" to the shoulders</a> for future makes. RTW shirts hardly ever have
shoulders wide enough for me, so this whole sewing for myself thing has
some exciting benefits. :) The waist on RTW dresses is nearly always about an inch too high, too, but this one is spot on.<br />
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I used some charcoal stretch french terry that's been in my stash for a shamefully long time for a long sleeved version.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-277IY5cF4Dbw2KB0xPEdk8oJ65ygijI-CEJj1U0IrAEY6p9OP7jQydFoIB6yTxEN04e0pkwtG_oS4Ent5EiIfXsjtnJJiWOJB2WoY2MLAgkyPpi2PRe7dwSmZRhT5zpGi6b-TbKAT4/s1600/grey-lady-skater-front-1.jpg" height="640" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="388" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Accessorizing with my <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2014/04/travel-sewing-knitting.html" target="_blank">boot toppers</a>!</td></tr>
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The widened shoulders fit perfectly now, but I should have (and since have) added another inch to the sleeve length. I measured the pattern pieces, but forgot to think about them riding up when bend my elbow. Obviously still new to this whole fitting thing. Ha. This knit is also firmer than the sheet I used for the muslin, so it's a little snugger than I wanted through the torso. Ray said it was fine, but he has never, <i>ever</i> thought anything was too tight or too short, so he's not overly reliable. A friend who I trust to be brutally honest said it's fine, so I'm hoping she's right. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yE9zTzyLmjBd7wGSka6U5ogDU3n92ZX5DHgGzt30IhjOpSaJ36phwpeziQBW417qqMUsF6lLgekacphlcNS-PftbsVP6rto2LtR9JQTZs7eXZhNCszAibANFWrjjva-XrHrz44V6N4M/s1600/grey-lady-skater-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yE9zTzyLmjBd7wGSka6U5ogDU3n92ZX5DHgGzt30IhjOpSaJ36phwpeziQBW417qqMUsF6lLgekacphlcNS-PftbsVP6rto2LtR9JQTZs7eXZhNCszAibANFWrjjva-XrHrz44V6N4M/s1600/grey-lady-skater-back.jpg" height="640" width="454" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See? Kinda tight. I think some of the problem is that I feel completely awkward and am therefore standing funny.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k6dUBfBLGpI/U2VdmvMu34I/AAAAAAAAFuk/fkESM-yl86c/s1600/grey-lady-skater-front-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k6dUBfBLGpI/U2VdmvMu34I/AAAAAAAAFuk/fkESM-yl86c/s1600/grey-lady-skater-front-2.jpg" height="640" width="402" /></a></div>
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Snugness aside, I really like this one. I said on <a href="http://instagram.com/sarahjanesews/#" target="_blank">Instagram</a> that I was planning on wearing it every day and just changing tights and accessories. I was only sort of kidding.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aMFQIek84s/U2VdnfDamcI/AAAAAAAAFus/R4GXBkpudxQ/s1600/grey-lady-skater-yellow-tights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aMFQIek84s/U2VdnfDamcI/AAAAAAAAFus/R4GXBkpudxQ/s1600/grey-lady-skater-yellow-tights.jpg" height="640" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by O. He was directing me and was pretty funny about it.</td></tr>
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My third and favorite I just made today for <a href="http://imaginegnats.com/selfish-sewing-week-is-back/" target="_blank">Selfish Sewing Week</a>. I'm totally in love with it, so there are lots of pictures. I used a leopard print knit from fabric.com that was listed as primarily cotton, but it felt off and then melted when I used a hot iron, so I think it's mostly poly. I'm more of a natural fibers girl, so I was kind of bummed, but it doesn't really wrinkle, so that's a bonus.</div>
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This time I went with 3/4 length sleeves (with the additional inch added, and I'm so glad I did that) and a keyhole cut out in back using <a href="http://patternrevolution.com/blog/2014/2/19/adapting-the-melanie-misses-by-modkid-with-a-key-hole-cut-out" target="_blank">this tutorial</a>. I felt like Goldilocks applying the binding because it took me three tries. The first time was too loose, the second was two tight, but the third was just right!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mMi0bhAtRLU/U2VdqtG0hDI/AAAAAAAAFu8/TtGP4Y1zLgM/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mMi0bhAtRLU/U2VdqtG0hDI/AAAAAAAAFu8/TtGP4Y1zLgM/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-back.jpg" height="640" width="432" /></a></div>
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I ran into some bulk issues where the seam allowances from the keyhole binding meet the neckline binding. It doesn't look too bad from the right side, but the inside is ugly. Good thing no one inspects my clothing.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEaKG6PJY9U/U2Vdxk_vhQI/AAAAAAAAFvY/GVJREn9lsmQ/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CEaKG6PJY9U/U2Vdxk_vhQI/AAAAAAAAFvY/GVJREn9lsmQ/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-inside.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPvgrKYCMK8/U2VezHnnepI/AAAAAAAAFvw/oFNCEmh_jis/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-back-close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPvgrKYCMK8/U2VezHnnepI/AAAAAAAAFvw/oFNCEmh_jis/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-back-close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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This fabric was a little firmer than the muslin too, so I sewed the side seams at 1/4" instead of 3/8" and it's about perfect. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrUhEVk8DCY/U2VdzTAw9LI/AAAAAAAAFvk/YGJEvp59WyQ/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrUhEVk8DCY/U2VdzTAw9LI/AAAAAAAAFvk/YGJEvp59WyQ/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-side.jpg" height="640" width="404" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9JpAb2rtX4w/U2VdslMiLaI/AAAAAAAAFvE/jniPlFn-2KU/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-front-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9JpAb2rtX4w/U2VdslMiLaI/AAAAAAAAFvE/jniPlFn-2KU/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-front-2.jpg" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
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So yeah, kind of obsessed with this pattern. I want to make another short sleeved one in nicer fabric, and then a <a href="http://kitschycoo.blogspot.com/2013/09/lady-skater-pattern-hack-sleeveless-tutorial.html" target="_blank">sleeveless</a> one, and maybe one with a gathered skirt...</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-St-lIpK_jqg/U2VduUut9hI/AAAAAAAAFvM/gCTWZvJKwyE/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-front-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-St-lIpK_jqg/U2VduUut9hI/AAAAAAAAFvM/gCTWZvJKwyE/s1600/leopard-lady-skater-front-3.jpg" height="640" width="441" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdoS5HKDWqQ/U2PIO74NATI/AAAAAAAAFrE/NGtDLIbvMh4/s1600/ssw+logo+final+350+px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdoS5HKDWqQ/U2PIO74NATI/AAAAAAAAFrE/NGtDLIbvMh4/s1600/ssw+logo+final+350+px.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
It's <a href="http://imaginegnats.com/selfish-sewing-week-lets-get-making/" target="_blank">Selfish Sewing Week</a> hosted by Rachael of <a href="http://imaginegnats.com/" target="_blank">Imagine Gnats</a>! It's perfect for my 2014 goal of making more things for myself, so when I saw a call out for knitters, I jumped at the chance. One can never have too many hats. I chose to knit up <a href="http://brooklyntweed.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=274" target="_blank">Thicket by Brooklyn Tweed</a>, since you know I'm all about cables.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgsmHN8l68X7ZflDllSoNxyyFqnRqzqSUP0oquRyYjUp00hMkGCxazEhDsf9EmnGk2KNAuij6KWT_u813sfiKXZhthyphenhyphenK2oD-EF873wS-Qw5-ZwuhxHOa1lhK9jFJ-rL9ddlqWp98gvZ0/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgsmHN8l68X7ZflDllSoNxyyFqnRqzqSUP0oquRyYjUp00hMkGCxazEhDsf9EmnGk2KNAuij6KWT_u813sfiKXZhthyphenhyphenK2oD-EF873wS-Qw5-ZwuhxHOa1lhK9jFJ-rL9ddlqWp98gvZ0/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-front.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
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My first try, though, was a fail. I should have gone with my gut, along with a few <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/thicket-3" target="_blank">Ravelry projects</a> that said the pattern runs big. I tend to be all, "Oh, I'll knit this up and even though it seems like way too many stitches for a worsted weight hat, it'll be fine!" And then no. Ginormous. It's kind of cute from the back and side, but just silly from the front, not to mention in danger of falling off any second. I know some people wear hats this slouchy and look adorable, but it doesn't work for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IMq5g5dMF9k/U2PGho5fWEI/AAAAAAAAFpw/yVCt0iAcSYo/s1600/thicket-hat-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IMq5g5dMF9k/U2PGho5fWEI/AAAAAAAAFpw/yVCt0iAcSYo/s1600/thicket-hat-front.jpg" height="252" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoddy bathroom selfie</td></tr>
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I absolutely LOVE the cable pattern, though, so I sat down and figured out how I wanted to size it down. How great is this detail? I love how twisted stitches pop.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4e6Zgh_tONs/U2PGif3oAmI/AAAAAAAAFp0/Z8x90zzX1Po/s1600/thicket-stitch-pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4e6Zgh_tONs/U2PGif3oAmI/AAAAAAAAFp0/Z8x90zzX1Po/s1600/thicket-stitch-pattern.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I dug through my stash and found this Knit Picks Merino Style, which was sold as DK weight, but knits up as more of a light worsted. Then I cast on only 110 stitches and did five repeats of the pattern instead of six. I also skipped to row 36 after I finished knitting row 27. That did the trick.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9m-HtvXdig/U2PGg5ALA1I/AAAAAAAAFpg/Kf3WYUgq08I/s1600/both-thickets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w9m-HtvXdig/U2PGg5ALA1I/AAAAAAAAFpg/Kf3WYUgq08I/s1600/both-thickets.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tpkAY8kQFdU/U2PGloQkOoI/AAAAAAAAFqI/UGFbacBEuSM/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-side-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tpkAY8kQFdU/U2PGloQkOoI/AAAAAAAAFqI/UGFbacBEuSM/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-side-2.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just the right amount of slouch</td></tr>
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I love how the top comes together and forms petal-like shapes. Having five sections makes it look like a star.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVVv5OQoQhs/U2PGn01GBKI/AAAAAAAAFqc/TQhryBIHEg4/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVVv5OQoQhs/U2PGn01GBKI/AAAAAAAAFqc/TQhryBIHEg4/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-top.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbqcny5iUjE/U2PGjbFTrfI/AAAAAAAAFp8/N8ZPkJ8rqiQ/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbqcny5iUjE/U2PGjbFTrfI/AAAAAAAAFp8/N8ZPkJ8rqiQ/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-back.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
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The main pattern is a chart only, not written out. When I first started knitting, I thought charts were super intimidating, but once I used one, I was sold on them. It's much easier to "read" your knitting, especially if you have to rip back a few rows. Not that I ever have to do that because I was distracted while binge-watching Supernatural on Netflix...<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgSrVEuCy-8/U2PHseCY_JI/AAAAAAAAFq0/aRS136C16DM/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgSrVEuCy-8/U2PHseCY_JI/AAAAAAAAFq0/aRS136C16DM/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-2.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of the cables requires you to hold one stitch to the front and one to the back, so if you don't already know how to <a href="http://www.grumperina.com/cables.htm" target="_blank">cable without a cable needle</a>, I would highly recommend learning. It made things much simpler.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Xevsy9WYko5tsS6JGkHVSgqRdCioZumohf-N0R-gpE_fFSze9bKNI-4t6laaZ4HfyR3hMVqr9XDBBbVkYIQQnnWnN9pFKjempZKSL6IGPdG_j8o7lF2kN_MmIJQd_7wuSehYBm7Wy0c/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Xevsy9WYko5tsS6JGkHVSgqRdCioZumohf-N0R-gpE_fFSze9bKNI-4t6laaZ4HfyR3hMVqr9XDBBbVkYIQQnnWnN9pFKjempZKSL6IGPdG_j8o7lF2kN_MmIJQd_7wuSehYBm7Wy0c/s1600/tide-pool-thicket-34.jpg" height="640" width="458" /> </a></div>
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Now that I've finished up my selfish knitting, I have some selfish sewing lined up. I've been so inspired by the other SSW projects on the <a href="http://www.kollabora.com/projects/selfish-sewing-week-spring-2014" target="_blank">Kollabora</a> page, as well as these participating bloggers:</div>
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<a href="http://milkybeer.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">milkybeer</a> · <a href="http://behind-the-hedgerow.com/" target="_blank">Behind the Hedgerow</a> · <a href="http://instagram.com/jm_subrn" target="_blank">jm_subrn</a> · <a href="http://www.sewwhatsherlock.com/" target="_blank">Sew What, Sherlock?</a>
<a href="http://lladybird.com/" target="_blank">Lladybird</a> · <a href="http://sewamysew.com/" target="_blank">sew Amy sew</a> · <a href="http://www.thebrodrickdesignstudio.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">the Brodrick Design Studio</a> · <a href="http://www.adirondackinspired.com/" target="_blank">adirondack inspired</a>
<a href="http://the-crooked-banana.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Crooked Banana</a> · <a href="http://sewbon.com/" target="_blank">Sewbon</a> · <a href="http://www.idlefancy.com/" target="_blank">Idle Fancy</a> · <a href="http://girllikethesea.org/" target="_blank">girl like the sea</a>
<a href="http://www.oonaballoona.com/" target="_blank">oona aloona</a> · <a href="http://laurendahl.com/" target="_blank">Lauren Dahl</a> · <a href="http://verypurpleperson.com/" target="_blank">verypurpleperson</a> · <a href="http://lainglesita.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">la inglesita</a>
<a href="http://groovybabyandmama.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Groovybaby...and mama</a> · <a href="http://buzzmills.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Buzzmills</a> · <a href="http://arreboditcomunapantigana.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">La Pantigana</a> · <a href="http://www.sewastraightline.com/" target="_blank">sew a straight line</a>
<a href="http://www.dandeliondrift.com/" target="_blank">Dandelion Drift</a> · <a href="http://justmejay.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">JustMeJay</a> · <a href="http://www.morepleasethankyou.com/byazoo/" target="_blank">B Yazoo</a> · <a href="http://disaster-inadress.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Disaster In A Dress</a>
<a href="http://thequirkypeach.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">the quirky peach</a> · <a href="http://www.fishsticksdesigns.com/blog/" target="_blank">Fishsticks Designs</a> · <a href="http://seamstresserin.com/" target="_blank">Seamstress Erin</a> · <a href="http://ahappystitch.com/" target="_blank">a happy stitch</a>
<a href="http://www.casaturtle.com/" target="_blank">Casa Crafty</a> · <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Jane Sews</a> · <a href="http://www.yosami.co/" target="_blank">YoSaMi</a> · <a href="http://www.callajaire.com/" target="_blank">Call Ajaire</a> · <a href="http://www.missmatatabi.com/" target="_blank">miss matatabi</a><br />
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There's also a fantastic giveaway that you can enter below!</div>
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e6d15035/" id="rc-e6d15035" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-47354883113968906202014-04-23T17:53:00.000-05:002014-04-27T09:57:11.845-05:00It's Sew Dolly Clackett!As soon as I read about <a href="http://rhinestonesandtelephones.blogspot.com/2014/02/surprise-its-sew-dolly-clackett.html" target="_blank">Sew Dolly Clackett</a>, I knew I wanted in. I've been reading <a href="http://dollyclackett.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Roisin's blog</a> for quite a while and envying her dresses. I even pinned a few as inspiration. Since one of my goals for this year is to sew more for myself, this challenge presented the perfect opportunity to actually do that.<br />
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When I think about Roisin's style, I first think of fit and flare dresses in polka dots or novelty prints, all things I love -- but generally using wovens. I haven't sewn clothing for myself out of a woven since the wrap skirt I made in sewing class my senior year of high school to wear to Homecoming. Back then I'd never heard of a muslin or pattern adjustments and generally just picked a size and winged it. That skirt ended up fitting pretty decently, but only after I managed to serge a hole through the front piece the day before the dance and had to talk my physics teacher into letting me leave class to go to the home ec. room to finish it up. Somehow that worked.<br />
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That was a really long time ago, though, so it was time to tackle the wovens once again. I actually bought fabric for three dresses, but not surprisingly only just finished the first one this afternoon. Expect to see some more Dolly Clackett inspired dresses coming soon! For this first one, I went with a fun polka dot bird print and the <a href="http://byhandlondon.com/products/anna-dress" target="_blank">By Hand London Anna</a> bodice (I picked up the pattern at <a href="http://greysfabric.com/" target="_blank">Grey's Fabrics</a> when I was in Boston) with the <a href="http://www.simplicitynewlook.com/6824/#.U1g7usfTZpQ" target="_blank">New Look 6824</a> skirt, a combo I blatantly <a href="http://dollyclackett.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/weird-in-good-way-like-going-to-gym.html" target="_blank">copied</a> from Roisin. I'm calling it the Polka Dot Peeps dress.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4YMNcg7q0o/U1g9jm5f-JI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/Q9nF3czJ-Yo/s1600/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4YMNcg7q0o/U1g9jm5f-JI/AAAAAAAAFZ8/Q9nF3czJ-Yo/s1600/front.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please ignore the state of my knees. I tripped on a run a while ago, skinning one and bruising them both. Classy.</td></tr>
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I sewed up a muslin of the bodice and decided to lengthen it 1.25" and do a 1/2" swayback adjustment. There was some diagonal wrinkling in the back that I thought meant it was too snug, so I also decided to use a 1/2" seam allowance just for the side seams for a bit more ease. It's pretty much impossible to see your back, and the wrinkling there was my biggest concern, so I kept making Ray take pictures of it as I was tweaking things. Heh.<br />
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Overall, I'm quite happy with the fit, although I think sticking to the 5/8" seam allowance throughout would have been better. It's a smidge looser than I'd like. Next time I will probably sew the bodice and skirt pieces together at the waist before sewing up the sides, so it will be easier to alter.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRKkS96H3qM/U1g8dPOW7VI/AAAAAAAAFZo/sPMM6Y2OOo8/s1600/side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRKkS96H3qM/U1g8dPOW7VI/AAAAAAAAFZo/sPMM6Y2OOo8/s1600/side.jpg" height="640" width="410" /></a></div>
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Another thing I would do differently is to stay-stitch the neckline. I stretched it some when I was sewing the facing on and had to steam the crap out of it to get it more or less back to how it was supposed to be. I had a minor panic attack about that one. I believe I yelled, "THIS is why I stick to KNITS!" Then I got over myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5TPd-dyyxAuRfnjRDQ8RtMUqNssCGTypjlsx6Uf0cb29ZmYIWH5GeCqPwdfu5wwWRlPffCZ85X7X1WPMmvGzd0RNjNR7Rl0_U2lcWqoJOxXqD73G-CMorhDmrVOCAYdFmO4QGyG5vg8/s1600/shed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5TPd-dyyxAuRfnjRDQ8RtMUqNssCGTypjlsx6Uf0cb29ZmYIWH5GeCqPwdfu5wwWRlPffCZ85X7X1WPMmvGzd0RNjNR7Rl0_U2lcWqoJOxXqD73G-CMorhDmrVOCAYdFmO4QGyG5vg8/s1600/shed.jpg" height="640" width="412" /></a></div>
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I wanted the skirt pleats to line up with the pleats on the front bodice, which took some putzing. If anyone else should happen to want to do the same thing with US 6 Anna bodice (or really, for myself when I inevitably lose my notes), I cut a size 8 skirt, did the center pleat as marked, then for the next one folded the size 16 line to the 14 dashed line, and the third was the size 12 line to the 10 dashed line. To make the back fit, I again did the center pleat as marked, but for the other two, I used the 8-10 line folded to the 16-18 dashed line. I didn't attempt to line these up with the back darts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lZMdVcMZY0M/U1g8edP0FwI/AAAAAAAAFZw/k-3-7dQTAEA/s1600/waist-seam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lZMdVcMZY0M/U1g8edP0FwI/AAAAAAAAFZw/k-3-7dQTAEA/s1600/waist-seam.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All lined up on the first try!</td></tr>
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I had originally topstitched the neckline, but then couldn't envision how I could neatly insert the zipper, so I ripped it out. It definitely would not have worked with <a href="http://buzzybeesworld.blogspot.com/2010/04/tricks-of-trade-facing-invisible-zip.html" target="_blank">the method I used</a>, which was very similar to the Ottobre method I'd used on <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/10/rosy-posy-dress-pantalets.html" target="_blank">E's Rosy Posy dress</a>. Another note to myself for next time: hold off on the facing until zipper installation time.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr7TZrLOnLw/U1g8XcYyAXI/AAAAAAAAFZE/wZ5ymW0uwE8/s1600/bodice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr7TZrLOnLw/U1g8XcYyAXI/AAAAAAAAFZE/wZ5ymW0uwE8/s1600/bodice.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I also forgot to iron the invisible zipper flat, so it's not quite as invisible as I'd have liked. It's not terrible, though, and the wrinkles that were in my muslin don't seem to be a problem, so I'm psyched about that. I do have a tiny bit of gaping of the back neckline and the shoulder seams sit a little further back than they should, so I will have to do a bit more adjusting for further Annas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXwPDCKxwww-zNPEyjSEqAXrZ0FQDK9r7e571rpiVYTLpoR-P21eLgPHdZvkZDxdn0Jtd0athhcZJwWfZXIjnbQnY5Ct3tA99nwRYaNGOg1bBL7OvMHFbcLE84fNUX1jjdeLXg-tIiVw/s1600/back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXwPDCKxwww-zNPEyjSEqAXrZ0FQDK9r7e571rpiVYTLpoR-P21eLgPHdZvkZDxdn0Jtd0athhcZJwWfZXIjnbQnY5Ct3tA99nwRYaNGOg1bBL7OvMHFbcLE84fNUX1jjdeLXg-tIiVw/s1600/back.jpg" height="640" width="382" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2iIsk5_FBVIgEXvux-15QqKO9H6GCvKJBpYDJ3631Qao7VLbEQ1K3OwyUXW7HVzb5Gl_rqBV38QEXDVfcJT3geySSEKp1xSGj9oWyAM1JETYs55wQjdIb2jA6oNWQkLt4UeEkzhtb3s/s1600/front-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2iIsk5_FBVIgEXvux-15QqKO9H6GCvKJBpYDJ3631Qao7VLbEQ1K3OwyUXW7HVzb5Gl_rqBV38QEXDVfcJT3geySSEKp1xSGj9oWyAM1JETYs55wQjdIb2jA6oNWQkLt4UeEkzhtb3s/s1600/front-2.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
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And since Roisin's known for her front door shots and her shoes, I'm ending with the obligatory pics of those!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was way too sunny in the front yard, so this was a quick snap by the 8-year-old.</td></tr>
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-11787608258440928862014-04-15T13:57:00.000-05:002014-04-16T11:35:57.508-05:00Spring KCW: Samu Fleece JacketKids Clothes Week last week turned into Sick Kid Week on top of an already busy schedule, so I gave myself an extension (handy thing about voluntary challenges) and just finished up my one measly project today. O's fleece jacket is getting pretty small, so I really wanted to make him a new one. He looked through my stash and picked the camo. Shocker.<br />
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I used the Samu Sweat Jacket pattern from Ottobre 6/2007 in size 140, which is a size up from his current size. I usually buy or make the kids' outerwear in a size too big, especially for spring and fall items. Otherwise it seems like they outgrow things before they've even worn them much.<br />
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The primary design feature is that the pockets and top of collar have raw edges. I'm pretty indifferent to it with fleece, although it sure was simple! I think it is a more effective look with the recommended sweater/sweatshirt knit.<br />
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The inside collar seam is finished with bias tape. I love that, and I'm sure O will appreciate it too, since he tends to be sensitive about seams and tags near his neck.<br />
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Overall it went together well. Some of my topstitching is a bit wonky, but it doesn't show much on fleece. I also could have done a better job with lining things up across the zipper (the hem band, pockets, collar, topstitching). Everything is just a <i>little</i> bit off, but no one else is likely to notice that when he's wearing it. But now you all know because I mentioned it. </div>
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He tried it on last night before I had the zipper in and declared it a success. Now it just needs to warm up again so he can actually wear it! It was pretty springy last week, but got cold again and snowed yesterday. I'm so over it.</div>
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-55624552778774180142014-04-07T14:14:00.000-05:002014-04-07T14:14:09.585-05:00Travel Sewing & KnittingDuring our spring break a few weeks ago, my aunt and I took a train trip to Boston. The train itself was a bit of an adventure. We started at a small station near(ish) her town in Wisconsin and took a train to Chicago, where we caught the train that we stayed on all the way to Boston. We were on that one for about 23 hours, and while we had a sleeper car, I apparently can't sleep in a moving train, despite the fact that I have no problems sleeping in cars or on a plane. Lesson learned. I wasn't quite as crabby about it on the way back, both because I knew what to expect and the timing worked out better. I'm not sure whether I would take that long of a train trip again, but it was a cool experience. <br />
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Before we left, I made a few travel accessories. More coffee cozies, one for my aunt and one for myself, as well as a hot chocolate cozy for O. I used the same <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/2011/09/20/fabric-coffee-sleeve-tutorial/" target="_blank">tutorial</a> as the <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/06/teacher-gifts-part-1-aprons-coffee.html" target="_blank">other</a> <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/06/teacher-gifts-part-2-roll-up-tote-bag.html" target="_blank">times</a> I've made them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guess which one is O's.</td></tr>
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I also made an <a href="http://www.dogundermydesk.com/2011/11/circle-zip-earbud-pouch-tutorial/" target="_blank">earbud pouch</a> to throw in my purse. It's been on my mental to-do list for quite a while, but I kept putting it off, thinking it would be putzy. Not so; it was quite quick and is super handy. It and the cozies are great uses for scraps.<br />
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We broke out the cozies in the Chicago train station while we were waiting for train #2.<br />
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I packed three knitting projects, thinking I'd knit a ton on the train, but I only ended up finishing one and a half. <br />
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The first project was some boot toppers for myself. It was a different pattern than the last <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2014/02/birthday-knits.html" target="_blank">two</a> <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2014/02/handmade-holidays-2013.html" target="_blank">pairs</a> I made, but the same yarn and a similar feel (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/simple-cable-boot-cuffs" target="_blank">Details on Ravelry</a>). I am still all about the cables. I finished them on the way out and wore them a couple of times on the trip.<br />
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On the way back I worked on a cabled -- of course -- headband to wear running, but I was pretty tired by then and wasn't able to either memorize the cable repeat or manage to keep track of where I was on the chart despite the use of sticky notes and marking the row. It's called Bamboozled, and that's a pretty accurate description of my state by that point, so I finished it at home (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/bamboozled" target="_blank">Ravelry details</a>). I'm quite pleased with it. I'm more of a hat-wearer in the winter, but like a headband for running in the in-between weather.<br />
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This is unrelated to my trip, but my oldest nephew's birthday was shortly before we left. He recently declared that he should have been named Zebulon, so I broke out the freezer paper and xacto knife and made him this. Hopefully he found it half as amusing as I did!<br />
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And now I need to make a dent in my hour for <a href="https://kcwc.herokuapp.com/users/sign_in" target="_blank">Spring Kids' Clothes Week</a>. I have a lot of projects to work on and really only one is something for the kids (a new fleece jacket for O), so I'm going to stick to just an hour a day this time. Of course I have a long list of things I'd like to make if I have extra time, but that's probably overly optimistic...Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-16314245713200290242014-03-07T13:04:00.000-06:002014-03-07T13:04:51.423-06:00Hats and mittens and cowls! Oh my!*Post title brought to you by our recent startling realization that O has not seen <i>The Wizard of Oz.</i> This will be remedied soon.<br />
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I've been trying to look on the bright side with the whole polar vortex/longest, coldest winter in my lifetime thing and am mostly failing miserably (although it's actually a miraculous 33F right now -- woohoo! I'm almost ready to break out the flip flops and sundresses). I do, however, really like winter accessories, which are a bit of consolation. And I really like being able to cover my badly-in-need-of-a-cut hair with a hat anytime I'm out in public and being able to act like it's because of the weather.<br />
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One pattern I have fallen in love with is the <a href="http://kitschycoo.blogspot.com/2012/12/make-it-in-metre-sew-double-layer.html" target="_blank">Kitschy Coo bibbed cowl</a>. Perfect for kids, and I have been known to swipe O's for myself also. Here's his, which is made from the same camo fleece as his <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/11/camo-fleece-hat-and-convertible-mitts.html" target="_blank">hat and convertible mitts</a>. The other side is black microfleece. I liked this so much that I actually handstitched the opening for turning so it would be reversible. Shocking, I know!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He's actually not going spelunking; we were going for a walk and it was getting dark.</td></tr>
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I was so happy with the cowl that I made one for E also, even though I'd already made her a mini version of my <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2010/11/ruffled-cowl-tutorial.html" target="_blank">ruffled cowl</a>. I also made her <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2010/12/winter-warmers.html" target="_blank">another</a> pair of <a href="http://www.sewbaby.com/shopbaby/product_info.php?products_id=4016" target="_blank">Sew Baby Mitten Wraps </a>from two layers of fleece. I lengthened the cuff for more wrist coverage. She has teeny wrists, so I really need to move the velcro over, but the cuff of her winter coat holds them in place okay for now. This fleece is an exact color match of her coat; I should have taken a picture.<br />
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And, of course, she needed a new hat. I had just enough yarn left from this <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/ss5" target="_blank">soaker sack</a> that never made it onto the blog to knit her an <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/ef2" target="_blank">earflap hat</a> with a crocheted flower. I'm pretty terrible at following crochet patterns, so I was quite pleased that I managed that little embellishment.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjUZzEIscIY/UxoO5tM5duI/AAAAAAAADHk/YxjuEJeS2NA/s1600/e-hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QjUZzEIscIY/UxoO5tM5duI/AAAAAAAADHk/YxjuEJeS2NA/s1600/e-hat.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
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More recently, I made myself a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/vrida-cabled-slouch-hat" target="_blank">Vrida Cabled Slouch hat</a>, after I realized that the last time I knitted myself something was in 2009. Yikes. One of my goals for the year is more sewing and knitting for myself. I love to make things for the kids and to give as gifts, but I've been stockpiling patterns and fabric and yarn for myself for years, and I need to make a dent in that stash! Plus I know I'll be a grateful recipient. ;)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_ouY1yI2lk/UxoO_4TQJqI/AAAAAAAADIM/EVzdCDE7sVI/s1600/vrida3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_ouY1yI2lk/UxoO_4TQJqI/AAAAAAAADIM/EVzdCDE7sVI/s1600/vrida3.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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This was also made to match the awesome felted sweater mittens that my sister made me for my birthday. I meant to photograph them together, but apparently never did. So imagine teal and charcoal sweater mittens, okay?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPKPVynWp4E/UxoO9HdjIoI/AAAAAAAADIE/vwtOp3VN5p8/s1600/vrida1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPKPVynWp4E/UxoO9HdjIoI/AAAAAAAADIE/vwtOp3VN5p8/s1600/vrida1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I am very happy with how this turned out. I was running out of yarn and had to cut down on the body a little, so I was worried it wouldn't be slouchy enough, but it blocked nicely. If I know you IRL, you probably either have already seen me wearing this or will soon enough! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3nqUEJmroM/UxoPBTOnuzI/AAAAAAAADIU/3LovwI_fx5g/s1600/vrida4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3nqUEJmroM/UxoPBTOnuzI/AAAAAAAADIU/3LovwI_fx5g/s1600/vrida4.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I also made my dad a hat. When I saw him before Christmas, he complimented Ray and me on our <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/k1" target="_blank">red</a> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/star-crossed-slouchy-beret" target="_blank">hats</a> (the aforementioned 2009 knit for myself) and mentioned that he recently lost the hat I'd knit for him before. And by before, I mean before O was born, so he was due for a new one! Since I'm currently obsessed with cables, I went with the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/macduff-hat" target="_blank">MacDuff hat</a> and totally love it. I made the M/L because he has a biggish head, and it's little large on me, but you get the idea.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I3B7_qWTW9o/UxoO5_UzDmI/AAAAAAAADHg/1WdAg2jqAkQ/s1600/macduffhat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I3B7_qWTW9o/UxoO5_UzDmI/AAAAAAAADHg/1WdAg2jqAkQ/s1600/macduffhat1.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's a darker red in real life, but I have a lot of trouble getting reds and purples right with my camera. User error, I'm sure. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nL2t8giTz7dJ2L-xdObRDv5Nz7DwvJI-96H6XxDV7FeKEba-be5-KaK_-jSpTtKw8vwpkYhpPtrwdCQTdYpvLfYo0sUV31g2gMQGePTHJpMecjlq5UV5tqbXMChGl9bBJ504F-3wFZA/s1600/macduffhat5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5nL2t8giTz7dJ2L-xdObRDv5Nz7DwvJI-96H6XxDV7FeKEba-be5-KaK_-jSpTtKw8vwpkYhpPtrwdCQTdYpvLfYo0sUV31g2gMQGePTHJpMecjlq5UV5tqbXMChGl9bBJ504F-3wFZA/s1600/macduffhat5.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbasfKa8Gm0/UxoP2JbzISI/AAAAAAAADIo/9gHdDHkVYWQ/s1600/macduffhat2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbasfKa8Gm0/UxoP2JbzISI/AAAAAAAADIo/9gHdDHkVYWQ/s1600/macduffhat2.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Man, I do love a good cable, especially now that I relearned how to <a href="http://www.grumperina.com/cables.htm" target="_blank">cable without a cable needle</a>. So slick.</div>
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In other news, I finally got a smart phone and am on <a href="http://instagram.com/sarahjanesews" target="_blank">Instagram</a> now!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_x_RXTSSD0/UxT9iYPo6PI/AAAAAAAAC_M/PGszJUKPkgE/s1600/travel-high-chair-flat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_x_RXTSSD0/UxT9iYPo6PI/AAAAAAAAC_M/PGszJUKPkgE/s1600/travel-high-chair-flat.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Enter the <a href="http://www.sewbaby.com/shopbaby/product_info.php?products_id=4025" target="_blank">Sew Baby Travel High Chair pattern</a>, which I happened to see at Joann Fabrics a couple of weeks ago. While it's more of a fabric-hog than some of the tutorials, I also thought it would work out better for E. I dug out some ancient stash fabric -- I remember buying this when O. was a baby with the intention of making a pouch sling, but never got around to it. (Believe me, there was no shortage of baby carriers around here, so that wasn't a big loss. I made at least three other pouches, not to mention mei tais and ring slings. I was a bit of a babywearing hoarder.) I think it's a stretch twill.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ujiWzUXVZBY/UxT9jfRtGVI/AAAAAAAAC_Y/eWXlnw9zckU/s1600/travel-high-chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ujiWzUXVZBY/UxT9jfRtGVI/AAAAAAAAC_Y/eWXlnw9zckU/s1600/travel-high-chair.jpg" height="640" width="408" /></a></div>
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Cutting out the pattern piece, fabric, and batting may have taken longer than sewing it up. The only change I made was to use 1.5" hook & loop left over from my cloth diaper making days instead of the recommended 3/4".<br />
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I'm quite happy with how it turned out. It's sized for up to 2T, but E is skinny and can still wear 2T pants as capris, so I decided to just go with it as-is. She has some growing room, but it would be quite easy to size up for a larger child who needs positioning help.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1-DWU2nJa6A/UxT9hqKuBcI/AAAAAAAAC_A/LqTxzo1XX7c/s1600/travel-high-chair-action.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1-DWU2nJa6A/UxT9hqKuBcI/AAAAAAAAC_A/LqTxzo1XX7c/s1600/travel-high-chair-action.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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It folds up even smaller than I'd hoped and fits easily in the side pocket of the Thirty-one bag that we usually use for her things.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pC0zf2whmDA/UxT9ieR_TsI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/FJnv-IFhRsU/s1600/travel-high-chair-folded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pC0zf2whmDA/UxT9ieR_TsI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/FJnv-IFhRsU/s1600/travel-high-chair-folded.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Something like this has been on my to-sew list for about a year, so I'm pretty psyched to finally be able to cross it off! <br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-29164075737918020902014-02-27T10:17:00.000-06:002014-02-27T10:17:11.368-06:00Tooth Fairy PillowA couple of weeks ago, E lost her first tooth. It caught me completely by surprise and she ended up swallowing it (along with her second loose tooth last weekend, despite the fact that I kept checking that one! Oh well). Sometimes I forget that even though her development is nothing like a typical six-year-old, things like losing teeth are still going to happen at the normal times. <br />
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As soon as I saw that little gap, though, I decided to sew up a tooth fairy pillow for her. O has one, but I wanted her to have her own also.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUigyEKjtlU/Uw9h9LeZBuI/AAAAAAAAC0U/LKPaugWzp2c/s1600/e-tooth-pilllow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PUigyEKjtlU/Uw9h9LeZBuI/AAAAAAAAC0U/LKPaugWzp2c/s1600/e-tooth-pilllow.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I based it on these <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/99486277/personalized-tooth-fairy-pillow-gift-for" target="_blank">super cute ones on Etsy</a>. It was a quick little project. Sewing on the buttons and embroidering the smile took the longest, and even that was fast.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hfmoHuquWNM/Uw9ikF77FxI/AAAAAAAAC0g/QTjoz0nGtDU/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hfmoHuquWNM/Uw9ikF77FxI/AAAAAAAAC0g/QTjoz0nGtDU/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ym9EOfoPykI/Uw9h8KylNNI/AAAAAAAAC0I/YHgUe0uOm6A/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow-close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ym9EOfoPykI/Uw9h8KylNNI/AAAAAAAAC0I/YHgUe0uOm6A/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow-close.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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It makes me smile every time I look at it. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKla2OKJjuE/Uw9h9ef8YPI/AAAAAAAAC0Y/CaGthHGmodc/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow-money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKla2OKJjuE/Uw9h9ef8YPI/AAAAAAAAC0Y/CaGthHGmodc/s1600/tooth-fairy-pillow-money.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-41449432882800631122014-02-14T12:25:00.000-06:002014-02-14T12:25:04.304-06:00Birthday Knits!I've been all about knitting lately -- I think because it's been obnoxiously cold here for so long that I'm drawn to things I can do while I'm on the couch wrapped up in a blanket. Heh. There are a few February birthdays in my family, and everyone received something that I knit. (Knitted? Apparently they're both correct, but they also both sound wrong to me.)<br />
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In reverse chronological order, here's E's birthday sweater. Since her birthday's today -- Valentine's Day -- it seems appropriate to start with her.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3vSh6RiCRxXZu9oATCS2z_B6bb3GseRGv2R77BKzvzEltZiyQHUcJ-cBGkTY8KpzIdXD7oz8pFh752NXJtXqBJmObeL7Gi_cT4ib1Gb5KgMc873mAx6ePEyOpnTVjzrmkZORyTw-Q0I/s1600/birthday-sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sarah Jane Sews: Heart Cable Pullover Sweater" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3vSh6RiCRxXZu9oATCS2z_B6bb3GseRGv2R77BKzvzEltZiyQHUcJ-cBGkTY8KpzIdXD7oz8pFh752NXJtXqBJmObeL7Gi_cT4ib1Gb5KgMc873mAx6ePEyOpnTVjzrmkZORyTw-Q0I/s1600/birthday-sweater.jpg" height="640" title="" width="424" /></a></div>
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This was a <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/uym68" target="_blank">top-down seamless raglan</a> that I changed from a different cable to use this cute heart cable, making it sort of Valentine-y without going over the top. I started it on Saturday and finished it in time for her to wear it to school yesterday, since she doesn't go on Fridays. I would not recommend this short of a time frame. I think my hands are still recovering. It's a little roomier than I necessarily wanted, but I don't think she looks like she's swimming in it, and it'll give her some growing room.<br />
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She's been showing a preference for purple lately and was all smiles when I showed it to her and put it on, so I think she approves!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVT6GIVpOZA/Uv5afqwU8kI/AAAAAAAACc8/pgaRLry8nic/s1600/birthday-sweater-cable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bVT6GIVpOZA/Uv5afqwU8kI/AAAAAAAACc8/pgaRLry8nic/s1600/birthday-sweater-cable.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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For my sister, I made another pair of boot toppers. I used the same pattern as <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2014/02/handmade-holidays-2013.html" target="_blank">last time</a>, but made a few <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/uot2" target="_blank">changes</a>. <br />
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Ray had requested some slippers for around the house, which I was pretty excited about. He rarely asks me to make him anything. I decided to make <a href="http://ravel.me/sjane/fos" target="_blank">felted slippers</a>, which is always fun, and also less likely to be traumatic if they accidentally get mixed in with the laundry. They looked impossibly huge before I threw them in the washer!</div>
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They felted to the perfect size, though, which always seems rather miraculous to me.<br />
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Happy Valentine's Day! I'm off to finish E's <a href="http://www.lifeloveandsugar.com/2012/08/31/triple-lemon-cake/" target="_blank">birthday cake</a> and finish a few other last minute birthday details while the girl naps. :)<br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-195639868677608242014-02-01T16:25:00.000-06:002014-02-01T16:25:12.780-06:00Handmade Holidays 2013I ended up not doing a whole lot of Christmas sewing this year (I had big plans, but didn't get to most of them), but there was a fair amount of knitting. I just mailed out the last thing this week *sigh*, so I'm finally blogging about the gifts as well.<br />
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I made O's teacher some boot toppers and also gave her some <a href="http://ckrecipes.com/2012/11/14/secrets-to-glowing-skin-oil-and-the-simplest-diy-coffee-scrub/" target="_blank">coffee and coconut oil exfoliating scrub </a>that apparently never got photographed. It was brown and in cute jar, so just imagine that. I was quite pleased with the boot toppers. (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/up-on-top" target="_blank">Ravelry notes</a>) Someday I'd like to make myself a pair. I looked on Ravelry a couple of days ago, and the last time I knitted myself anything was 2009! I still wear that <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/star-crossed-slouchy-beret" target="_blank">hat</a> too.<br />
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E's teacher and para also got the scrub, along with some slippers. I made her teacher Bea's Slippers (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/beas-slippers" target="_blank">Ravelry notes</a>) and loooooved how they turned out. They took a lot longer to knit than I was expecting, though, so I had to find a quicker option for her para.<br />
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I ended up knitting double-stranded slippers for hers, and they were super quick and quite squishy. (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/non-felted-slippers" target="_blank">Ravelry notes</a>) She told me after the break that her kids kept swiping them from her. Haha.<br />
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I also wanted to give a little some thing to the secretary at E's school, since I end up bugging her to sign in and out nearly every day at drop-off and pick-up time. She had a bio up in the entrance at the beginning of the year that said she sewed, so I had that in the back of my head and decided to make her a <a href="http://www.whatsupcupcakeblog.com/2011/10/pincushion-jar-tutorial.html" target="_blank">jar pincushion</a> and fill it with a few chocolates. Honestly, she had one of the best reactions to a gift that I've given in a long time. It made my day to see how happy she was that I had read her bio and remembered that she sews.<br />
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Here's my only actual sewn project! Ray asked for a phone cozy for when he runs in the cold. I took <a href="http://fairyfacedesigns.blogspot.it/2011/12/last-minute-gift-idea-phone-cozy.html?m=1" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> and simplified it, since I knew he couldn't care less about the piecing.<br />
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O wanted to make E a blanket and decided a tie blanket would be the way to go. He was right, she loves the fringe. He chose the fabric, I did the cutting and Ray and I both helped him tie it, but he did a significant part of it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It looks like E's staring down that raccoon.</td></tr>
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Back to knitting (I have no rhyme or reason to this post, I guess), my SIL requested an earflap hat for her younger son, so I made him this one. (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/cozy" target="_blank">Ravelry notes</a>) This was my most shamefully late gift of this holiday season. Winter doesn't seem to be ending anytime soon, though, so he will have plenty of opportunity to wear it still. Hopefully it fits!<br />
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And last, but not least, the kids' annual Christmas ornaments. (You can see 2011's <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/01/more-ornaments.html" target="_blank">here</a> and 2012's <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2013/01/handmade-holidays-ornaments.html" target="_blank">here</a>.) O has been very into watching the Peanuts holiday specials, so I was inspired by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/114342995/peanuts-charlie-brown-hand-painted?utm_campaign=Share&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_source=Pinterest" target="_blank">this ornament on Etsy</a> and made him Charlie Brown. I wanted to use a glass ball like the original, but couldn't find any when I finally went shopping (I think Hobby Lobby has them, but it was a Sunday, so they were closed). I settled for a paper mache one instead, so Charlie Brown is a little bumpier than I would have liked, but O didn't seem to care.<br />
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E's ornament was again based on her <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2013/10/a-harry-potter-halloween-2013-edition.html" target="_blank">Halloween costume</a> (as well as her on-going love of our cat). It ended up being a huge pain to knit and then sew up this fun fur yarn, but I do like how it turned out. (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/sjane/christmas-bear--cat-baubles" target="_blank">Ravelry notes</a>) I used scrapbooking stickers to put her name (blurred out, obviously) and the year on the ornament the cat is holding. Stickers are the way to go. Much less stressful than trying to paint the name and year with a shaky hand like I did on O's!<br />
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And that's it! I felt really busy, but I guess I didn't really accomplish much. Now I'm on to working on birthday gifts, since we have several in our family in February. <a href="http://blog.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">Winter KCW</a> was this week, but I didn't even make an attempt this round. I have been enjoying looking at what other people have been making, though! Have you been sewing along?<br />
<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-50720050931184175292013-12-20T12:25:00.000-06:002013-12-20T12:27:42.730-06:00A Christmas KyokoI have a to-do list about a mile long, so now's the perfect time to ignore it and blog, right? Just a quick post about E's Christmas dress, which she wore yesterday when Santa came to her class Christmas party. It's the <a href="http://modkidboutique.com/Kyoko.html" target="_blank">Modkid Kyoko</a> in a 3 for width and 5 for height, which worked out perfectly, just like it did for last year's <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/10/kcwc-day-5-cordury-modkid-sydney.html" target="_blank">Sydney</a> that she still wears.<br />
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I made my own bias tape again, because I'm a sucker for a perfect match, even though I find it annoying to make. For a solid top, you could probably just get away with turning the hem under and topstitching it, but I wanted that little bit of extra detail. <br />
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I mostly followed the directions as written, other than taking the easy way out by applying the bias tape to the neckline and hem just by topstitching instead of doing it the "right" way. I did do the sleeve binding as instructed and it was pretty slick.<br />
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I made a self-fabric bow for the obi instead of using ribbon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is probably the most accurate color-wise. It's a bit of a darker red.</td></tr>
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I also thought it called for some fancy-schmancy hair clip of some kind, so I made a fabric flower like <a href="http://achievingproverbs31.blogspot.com/2010/10/fabric-flower-2.html" target="_blank">this</a> with a fabric-covered button for the middle.<br />
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She wore the pantalets from her <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/10/halloween-2012-scientist-and-raggedy-ann.html" target="_blank">Raggedy Ann costume</a> underneath for some added warmth. The top comes down pretty low on her, so she wore a long-sleeved tee also.<br />
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Time to get cracking on my list! Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-55269536808869136022013-12-06T15:19:00.000-06:002013-12-06T15:19:19.642-06:00A Visit from St. NicholasI seem to remember that after <a href="http://DSC_0813.JPG DSC_0814.JPG DSC_0815.JPG DSC_0816.JPG DSC_0817.JPG DSC_0818.JPG DSC_0819.JPG DSC_0820.JPG DSC_0821.JPG DSC_0822.JPG DSC_0823.JPG DSC_0824.JPG DSC_0825.JPG DSC_0826.JPG DSC_0827.JPG DSC_0828.JPG DSC_0829.JPG DSC_0831.JPG DSC_0832.JPG DSC_0833.JPG DSC_0834.JPG DSC_0835.JPG DSC_0836.JPG DSC_0837.JPG DSC_0838.JPG DSC_0839.JPG DSC_0840.JPG DSC_0841.JPG DSC_0842.JPG DSC_0843.JPG DSC_0844.JPG DSC_0845.JPG DSC_0846.JPG DSC_0847.JPG DSC_0848.JPG DSC_0849.JPG DSC_0850.JPG DSC_0851.JPG DSC_0852.JPG DSC_0853.JPG DSC_0854.JPG DSC_0855.JPG DSC_0856.JPG DSC_0857.JPG DSC_0858.JPG DSC_0859.JPG DSC_0860.JPG DSC_0861.JPG DSC_0862.JPG DSC_0863.JPG DSC_0864.JPG DSC_0865.JPG DSC_0866.JPG DSC_0867.JPG DSC_0868.JPG DSC_0869.JPG DSC_0870.JPG DSC_0871.JPG DSC_0872.JPG DSC_0873.JPG DSC_0874.JPG DSC_0875.JPG DSC_0876.JPG" target="_blank">last year's </a>sewing of the Christmas jammies from St. Nick, I decided it wasn't worth the time and effort to sew footie pajamas. But then I found this super cute Charlie Brown Christmas fleece and couldn't pass up the opportunity for the kids to have matching PJs, so I found myself working on them at the last minute once again. <br />
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I don't learn.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.peekaboopatternshop.com/product/classic-footed-pajamas-3-mos-8-years" target="_blank">Peek-a-Boo Classic Footed Pajamas pattern</a> has been updated since last year, adding more sizes and a half-zip option. The full-zip is easier with E, so I made that version again, but I think the half-zip would be much simpler. I ripped out the part on the leg where the end of the zipper meets the inseam three times. When my fourth attempt was still puckered, I decided that no one else would even notice, so I left it.<br />
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O's pants are also the same as last year, just a size bigger. They're the large (size 10) pants from <a href="http://kwiksew.mccall.com/k16008--p016008--products-22717.php?page_id=3505" target="_blank">Kwik Sew's Sewing for children</a>, with the side seam eliminated and the legs widened 3/4" on each side. He's a huge fan of all the Charlie Brown specials, so he thought they were pretty cool -- as far as pajamas go.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIOTT-PlD4k/UqI8o88XPkI/AAAAAAAACX8/YV4f9V-Suh0/s1600/2013-st-nick-pajamas-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIOTT-PlD4k/UqI8o88XPkI/AAAAAAAACX8/YV4f9V-Suh0/s400/2013-st-nick-pajamas-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have you ever sewn footie pajamas? Worth it or not? I find them kind of putzy to sew, but think they're just so cute when they're done, so I'm currently undecided. I guess if I stick to just making them once a year, it's not so bad. Ha.Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-53329051803952954032013-11-20T11:00:00.000-06:002013-11-20T11:00:01.546-06:00Super Totes!I feel like there should be some sort of superhero theme music playing... SUPER TOTES!<br />
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Anyway. E's teacher (this is E's third and final *sob* year in the same early childhood classroom) went on a trip last month and told me how well the Noodlehead <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2013/05/super-tote-pattern.html" target="_blank">Super Tote</a> I'd made her worked as a carry-on bag. The para then said that she uses <i>hers</i> as her everyday bag, and then I realized that I never blogged about the bags, which were their end-of-school gifts from us. Weird, because I LOVED them. So, so much. Even though I started them much too late and ended up practically pulling an all-nighter. So I was happy to hear that they're holding up well. Late night sewing can be suspect.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWxdfELYrHS1Zkml5Oa4njV5ahMhJIJDX5Cw39NZlGRIdxxPsctuXxjlk-9ur86nLYVVKf7FmPqMkg4R7SznBDyTLJGTUkRMtWeyBXSGDLF_f7BDae1jZ-RBdjTrKtGveOt7cbzisPEc/s1600/both-super-totes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyWxdfELYrHS1Zkml5Oa4njV5ahMhJIJDX5Cw39NZlGRIdxxPsctuXxjlk-9ur86nLYVVKf7FmPqMkg4R7SznBDyTLJGTUkRMtWeyBXSGDLF_f7BDae1jZ-RBdjTrKtGveOt7cbzisPEc/s400/both-super-totes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2013/05/super-tote-pattern.html" target="_blank">pattern</a> is pretty awesome. I had no problems with it, despite my lack of sleep. It does require quite a few pieces and a lot of interfacing, which added to my time crunch. Well, and my usual procrastination. One thing I will mention is that the recommended interfacing was super expensive compared to my usual stuff. I'd never used anything like it before; it reminded me of a fusible muslin. It was nice, but considering E's <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2011/09/owl-bag-tutorial.html" target="_blank">owl bag</a> was made with considerably cheaper interfacing and is holding up great on its third year of daily use, I probably wouldn't spring for this stuff again.<br />
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The main prints are both home dec fabrics. The red and brown are linen blends, and the linings are quilting cottons. There was much agonizing over fabric selection.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y1bMoSZzNTg/Uou240xHMqI/AAAAAAAACXc/XbB3Y6Hx6b8/s1600/super-tote-red-gusset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y1bMoSZzNTg/Uou240xHMqI/AAAAAAAACXc/XbB3Y6Hx6b8/s400/super-tote-red-gusset.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I didn't make many changes. Instead of piping on the outer pocket, I just used a strip of contrasting fabric. I'm pretty sure I swiped that idea from one of the bag testers, but now I can't find where I saw it (one of the perils of blogging about something months later).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nBC6E7ry8y8/Uou2129_swI/AAAAAAAACXA/CWGNws__gzQ/s1600/super-tote-front-pocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nBC6E7ry8y8/Uou2129_swI/AAAAAAAACXA/CWGNws__gzQ/s400/super-tote-front-pocket.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love magnetic snap closures! You can also see the non-piping trim.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hqxj6bDeigs/Uou2zKcEwUI/AAAAAAAACW0/eRDvxa1Shus/s1600/super-tote-brown-gusset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hqxj6bDeigs/Uou2zKcEwUI/AAAAAAAACW0/eRDvxa1Shus/s400/super-tote-brown-gusset.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I only put the elastic pockets on one side of the inside, purely for time-saving reasons.<br />
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The recessed zipper top might be my favorite feature. It was easy too, so I'm sure I'll add it to other totes that don't have a zip-top. I seem to manage to tip over my bags regularly, so secure closures are much appreciated!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LjSXYrfqFk/Uou24gKCBAI/AAAAAAAACXY/KRkB42BrmrM/s1600/super-tote-recessed-zipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LjSXYrfqFk/Uou24gKCBAI/AAAAAAAACXY/KRkB42BrmrM/s400/super-tote-recessed-zipper.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I actually cut other another one for O's teacher, but he wanted to give her a gift card to his favorite frozen custard place instead. The pieces taunt me regularly, so I'll have to sew it up soon. I think I've finally recovered from the panicky night sewing to attempt another one. Ha. He actually has the same teacher again too (his school combines 2nd & 3rd grades, as well as 4th & 5th), so maybe I'll see what he thinks about it for a Christmas gift.Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-85889694702592081762013-11-19T12:42:00.000-06:002013-11-19T12:42:55.333-06:00Rockin' Baby Gowns IV & V: Wisconsin Sports EditionThe <a href="http://thismamamakesstuff.com/tutorial-rockin-baby-gown-t-shirt-refashion/" target="_blank">Rockin' Baby Gown </a>has definitely become my <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/02/newborn-gown-hat.html" target="_blank">go-to</a> <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/10/kcwc-day-1-rockin-baby-gown-cupcake-hat.html" target="_blank">baby</a> <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/11/rockin-baby-gown-iii-football-edition.html" target="_blank">gift</a>. One of my college roommates is a serious sports fan (they had the most awesome baseball-themed wedding), so as soon as I received an invitation to her baby shower, I knew exactly which shirts I needed to find to refashion into gowns.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JrqnVS4UU/UouuL0ozA8I/AAAAAAAACWA/8BOXAj2F3mI/s1600/packer-brewer-gowns-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JrqnVS4UU/UouuL0ozA8I/AAAAAAAACWA/8BOXAj2F3mI/s400/packer-brewer-gowns-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Both tees were adult smalls, which weren't big enough to cut the sleeves from, so I dug in my stash for coordinating colors. The Brewer blue is a closer match to the printing in person than it looks in the photos.<br />
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I'm not quite as crazy about the yellow sleeves, but anything's cute on a baby, right? This was the first time that I just hemmed the neckline with a zigzag rather than finishing it with ribbing. Generous use of spray starch made it go smoothly -- much better than I'd anticipated.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sx4egh2Ekeg/UouuPbw--kI/AAAAAAAACWc/myOR7nr8DOQ/s1600/packer-gown-close-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sx4egh2Ekeg/UouuPbw--kI/AAAAAAAACWc/myOR7nr8DOQ/s400/packer-gown-close-up.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Brewer gown was pretty much the same as the ones I'd made previously. I really like the look of the sleeves and neckline in this color combo.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qYZpthrpL0M/UouuMe8cqrI/AAAAAAAACWE/RBWwWXRj8HM/s1600/brewer-gown-close-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qYZpthrpL0M/UouuMe8cqrI/AAAAAAAACWE/RBWwWXRj8HM/s400/brewer-gown-close-up.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My friend's husband is a Yankee fan, but he'll just have to deal. ;) Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-11347298634667984002013-10-31T20:38:00.000-05:002013-10-31T20:38:08.630-05:00A Harry Potter Halloween: 2013 EditionHappy Halloween!<br />
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O wanted to do a family theme for costumes this year (yay!), and we kicked around a lot of ideas, but finally settled on Harry Potter <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2011/10/harry-potter-halloween.html" target="_blank">again</a>. It took a while to decide on characters, since we didn't want repeats -- although O went from "generic Death Eater" to Lucius Malfoy specifically.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsxET6KpPzs/UnL2bzY0dwI/AAAAAAAACUw/sTyd41dYFQs/s1600/HP-Halloween-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsxET6KpPzs/UnL2bzY0dwI/AAAAAAAACUw/sTyd41dYFQs/s640/HP-Halloween-2.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
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After much debate, we picked Crookshanks for E. O thought we should really have a Hermione if Crookshanks was part of the group, but eventually came around to the idea. A cat is perfect for her anyway, since she and our cat are BFFs. Well, more like frenemies, but they are pretty much inseparable.<br />
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The cat costume costume is from <a href="http://butterick.mccall.com/b3238-products-4133.php?page_id=386" target="_blank">Butterick 3238</a>. I made a 5, which is what she wears in RTW (albeit a slim in pants when I can find them). It was roomy, but about what I expected. I wasn't crazy about the fit of the hood, but it got the job done. <br />
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I'd found some more cat-like faux fur at Joann's but they were 1/2 yard short of what I needed, so I ended up with this rather vibrant fleece. At least it was cheap and super easy to sew. My primary goal this year was to not stress about the details, especially for E's costume. It's highly unlikely it will be worn again, hence the stash muslin lining for the hood rather than buying matching fabric. I also didn't bother with shoe covers for the same reason. And I may have run out of time to make those. Whatever.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fTRi8AnQP2k/UnL2cWVZ2GI/AAAAAAAACU0/xIU93uzqu1g/s1600/Crookshanks-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fTRi8AnQP2k/UnL2cWVZ2GI/AAAAAAAACU0/xIU93uzqu1g/s640/Crookshanks-back.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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O's cloak is <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5952-products-10434.php?page_id=915" target="_blank">McCall's 5952</a> and some cheap cotton/poly bottomweight fabric also from Joann's. It also went together easily, although I should have checked the sizing before cutting it out. I made his RTW size (8), and ended up taking 2" off the sleeves, leaving them to hit in the middle of his hand for some growing room, and 4" off the hem. I really should have taken even more off the hem, since it dragged in the back if it wasn't situated perfectly and it's been raining all afternoon and evening, so he came home from trick-or-treating with a pretty soggy cloak.<br />
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I really liked how the neckline was finished with bias tape. I'll have to remember that for other things that don't call for it in the directions, but could really use a cleaner finish. (I'm looking at you, <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/10/kcwc-day-5-cordury-modkid-sydney.html" target="_blank">Modkid Sydney</a>!)<br />
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The only other modification I made was to curve the bottom of the sleeves so they weren't so pointy. Lucius doesn't seem like a pointy sleeve kind of guy to me. Actually, he probably would have a tailored sleeve, but I wanted to make it a pretty generic cloak.<br />
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One of the things O really wanted to have was <a href="http://fab.com/product/lucius-malfoy-s-walking-stick-401217" target="_blank">Malfoy's walking stick</a>. Since we weren't about to spend nearly $100 on a costume prop, we made our own out of a big dowel, <a href="http://www.staedtler.com/en/products/products-for-modelling-and-crafting/fimoair/fimo-air-light-8131-air-drying-or-microwave-hardening-modelling-clay/" target="_blank">clay</a>, adhesive "emeralds", and some paint. It's a little lumpier than either of us would have liked, but considering he's eight and I spent my semester of high school pottery drawing instead of actually touching any clay (my small-town school was not overly demanding -- ha ha), we did okay. He was quite happy with it overall, and it was a fun project to do together.<br />
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Ray and I were Hagrid and Professor Trelawney, respectively. Our costumes were primarily from our existing wardrobes and thrift stores. I did buy some cheapo prescription glasses from <a href="http://www.zennioptical.com/" target="_blank">Zenni Optical,</a> since I have a few more future costumes in mind that would require similar frames. And then I bought Ray's wig/beard combo from one of those pop-up Halloween stores. The "Jesus" wig was the only one that was suitable, and I felt all weird buying it, wanting to tell people that we weren't actually going to use it for Jesus (I didn't, because who would actually care?! They're all in there looking for sexy policewoman costumes or whatever, so I doubt they're judging me and my Jesus wig). Can you tell I have a hang-up about religious costumes? Also Native American costumes, but that's a bigger issue than I really need to get into at the moment. Back to secondary Harry Potter characters!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw4HJ1O1p_k/UnMC7CachcI/AAAAAAAACVg/HYGBjWCJE-A/s1600/Hagrid-&-Trelawney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw4HJ1O1p_k/UnMC7CachcI/AAAAAAAACVg/HYGBjWCJE-A/s640/Hagrid-&-Trelawney.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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We had a fun Halloween, and it was relatively low-stress. That doesn't mean I wasn't sewing the hem of O's cloak this afternoon, of course, but it really wouldn't be a holiday if I wasn't scrambling to finish something up at the last minute!<br />
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-40495967499654055392013-10-24T16:18:00.003-05:002013-10-24T16:52:17.716-05:00KCW Day 4: Pompom Poncho<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Woo-hoo! An actual completed project for KCW. I'm not counting costume sewing, since nothing I've made will be worn other than for Halloween. [Edit: I just saw that the KCW blog featured costumes today, so I guess that was a made-up-by-me rule. LOL]<br />
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I noticed the other day that <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2011/02/girls-birthday-dress-and-poncho.html" target="_blank">E's poncho </a>for the car was getting too small, so a new one was my first priority. I've made so many of these from the <a href="http://www.sewbaby.com/shopbaby/product_info.php?products_id=4022" target="_blank">Sew Baby Poncho Pizazz pattern</a> that I've completely lost track of how many exactly.<br />
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I made my usual modifications for this one: adding elastic to the center front of the hood and overlapping the hem of the hood when sewing it on, which seems to make it sturdier.<br />
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I also added a fleece pompom from <a href="http://www.thetiptoefairy.com/2010/10/jester-fleece-hat-tutorial.html" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> to jazz it up a little, since it was made from a plain stash fabric. I am desperately trying to sew down my ginormous fleece stash! My camera has issues with blues and purples (or I am inept, whatever), so I tried to color correct it to close to the right color. It's actually a really pretty cobalt leaning slightly towards purple. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aU4vWWwGVc/UmmS7CHTC3I/AAAAAAAACUM/kLuapk900OM/s1600/ponchosmile2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--aU4vWWwGVc/UmmS7CHTC3I/AAAAAAAACUM/kLuapk900OM/s400/ponchosmile2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think she likes it.</td></tr>
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-51232847921850131312013-10-20T19:32:00.001-05:002013-10-20T19:32:23.020-05:00Mother/Daughter Emmeline ApronsI'm currently avoiding cutting out more Halloween costume stuff, so am posting the final aprons as a semi-productive form of procrastination. <br />
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I made my sister an <a href="http://sewliberated.com/products/emmeline-apron-sewing-pattern" target="_blank">Emmeline</a> for her birthday back in the spring. Well, technically her birthday is in the winter, but I didn't give her the apron until spring. Not my proudest sisterly act. It's a good thing she loves me anyway.<br />
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Tardiness aside, I really, really loved how it turned out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2n7xHT30IRo/UmRyXvS9IsI/AAAAAAAACSw/1MpyXOCNQ7w/s1600/emmeline-paisley-on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2n7xHT30IRo/UmRyXvS9IsI/AAAAAAAACSw/1MpyXOCNQ7w/s640/emmeline-paisley-on.jpg" width="528" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side A</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T4HgxvaPUho/UmRyT-7rW1I/AAAAAAAACSs/Cyx9IxJ13dI/s1600/emmeline-floral-on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T4HgxvaPUho/UmRyT-7rW1I/AAAAAAAACSs/Cyx9IxJ13dI/s640/emmeline-floral-on.jpg" width="452" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side B</td></tr>
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The one good thing about waiting so long to deliver the gift was that I got to give it to her in person. This was especially advantageous because my niece LOVED it, and she had a birthday coming up, so her gift was a no-brainer. She turned 11, so I made hers a bit smaller, but not a lot. I think I cut the pieces 2" narrower and the skirt part of the apron 2" shorter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTMX0Bx5gGPhpjIy5_zLt3beFSzhcQiiJSh0Qtg36f2ys1g2vS8Yk1wkAPD8dhRZ1Mibu9CSP9X5B0OKmHj1YG-6fHlFpKppY1sSOH6t6rh54UYpC7dtGF8or8TcugqrdR4fVHZRpmEw/s1600/emmeline-blue-pink-paisley-on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTMX0Bx5gGPhpjIy5_zLt3beFSzhcQiiJSh0Qtg36f2ys1g2vS8Yk1wkAPD8dhRZ1Mibu9CSP9X5B0OKmHj1YG-6fHlFpKppY1sSOH6t6rh54UYpC7dtGF8or8TcugqrdR4fVHZRpmEw/s640/emmeline-blue-pink-paisley-on.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side A</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hmegw_4R9cT9NlMOGKh-19sJ-3ffyVlNGCLMIgqtSpxYk74KFXCWvz673lTrC4wDyThADFVct_rD31qTcO5efS7C29ttxQl6bXeAt3kURpBa9vXV9CKczZVkkWuceXYz3tralsTHNVA/s1600/emmeline-pink-on.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Hmegw_4R9cT9NlMOGKh-19sJ-3ffyVlNGCLMIgqtSpxYk74KFXCWvz673lTrC4wDyThADFVct_rD31qTcO5efS7C29ttxQl6bXeAt3kURpBa9vXV9CKczZVkkWuceXYz3tralsTHNVA/s640/emmeline-pink-on.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side B</td></tr>
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You can't tell in the full-length photo, but the black and pink print has glitter in it -- perfect for a bling-loving tween. The close-up also shows that despite declaring after <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/07/his-hers-aprons.html" target="_blank">the first time I made one of these</a> that I would hand sew the final bits next time, I didn't. I did discover that generous use of a fabric glue stick kept things lined up well enough for respectable machine-stitching. Yay!<br />
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Okay, back to the costumes. I had hoped to get them pretty much finished this weekend, but am not even close. After looking at all the things on our calendar this week, I don't think I'll get nearly as much done for <a href="http://blog.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">KCW</a> as I'd originally planned, either, but I'd like to get a couple of things made after the costumes are done. Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-38625286118138779222013-10-18T11:28:00.001-05:002013-10-18T11:28:20.392-05:00Butterick 4945 Apron IINot the cleverest of titles for this post, huh? At least it's descriptive. <br />
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I made another <a href="http://butterick.mccall.com/b4945-products-5295.php?page_id=871" target="_blank">Butterick 4945</a> view D this summer for our friends' mom's 60th birthday. She's pretty awesome and threw herself a big party, because she knew her husband and sons wouldn't think of it. Ha! We've spend a lot of time at their house, especially before we had kids, and we adore her, so I was happy for a reason to make her something. She's a fantastic hostess and great cook, so an apron seemed like a perfect fit. Through a chain of texts (Ray --> older son --> his dad, who we suspect just asked her), I found out her favorite colors and picked out this cute paisley print.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oBhZ2H4QI50/UmFfmSr-HwI/AAAAAAAACR8/lgHyPw-4GKE/s1600/green-butterick-apron-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oBhZ2H4QI50/UmFfmSr-HwI/AAAAAAAACR8/lgHyPw-4GKE/s640/green-butterick-apron-1.jpg" width="436" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, summer and sundresses, how I miss you both!</td></tr>
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I made the same minor modifications as <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2013/10/raffle-aprons.html" target="_blank">last time,</a> mostly just adding a ton of topstitching. I was quite happy with how this one turned out, especially since I sewed it up the morning of the party, as usual. The flounce at the bottom is my favorite part.<br />
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Two more aprons still on the to-blog list! I also need to finish up (er, start) Halloween costumes and get ready for the fall <a href="http://www.kidsclothesweek.com/" target="_blank">Kids Clothes Week</a> next week. Are you sewing along for this round of KCW?Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8542102515962051845.post-63298253362649611822013-10-16T17:49:00.000-05:002013-10-16T17:50:00.376-05:00More Raffle ApronsAs I was finishing up an apron to donate to a raffle basket at E's school, I realized I hadn't blogged yet about the last apron I sewed up for her school. In February. And then I remembered that there were three other aprons I made this year that haven't made an appearance on the blog yet either. So it's going to be aprony around here for a while.<br />
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Up first is the one from February (Early Childhood always gets assigned kitchen things for their theme. The apron from her first year is <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/03/raffle-apron.html" target="_blank">here</a>). This was view D of <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/03/raffle-apron.html" target="_blank">Butterick 4945</a>, which was a gift from my friend <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DreamerLane" target="_blank">Carrie</a>. I used two coordinates from Hobby Lobby that had been hanging out in the stash for a while and made the largest size, thinking an apron can't really be too big. Or at least not if you're as messy as I am.<br />
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There were some issues with the facings at the arm edge being too long, but that was about it. I also changed the waist ties to be turned and topstitched instead of hemmed and added additional topstitching in several other areas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lb037hTTxZ-oPKwJ3ajb7IyRownGViIsrLL6TtSG334buBLAMNqjC7SKOHXoENAcDOcsTKQSw7hw9m7k2tfCR8eNJmplkaLAdXYiinDY7Gq2ihMbqIB0oAtJeSrUyldNMwGzFrLhznw/s1600/butterick-apron1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lb037hTTxZ-oPKwJ3ajb7IyRownGViIsrLL6TtSG334buBLAMNqjC7SKOHXoENAcDOcsTKQSw7hw9m7k2tfCR8eNJmplkaLAdXYiinDY7Gq2ihMbqIB0oAtJeSrUyldNMwGzFrLhznw/s640/butterick-apron1.jpg" width="430" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O. took this before school one snowy day in February, so less than ideal lighting conditions.</td></tr>
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I really like this apron style, as you'll see when I get around to blogging the second one I sewed up.<br />
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E's school added a Fall Festival this year and moved the raffle baskets to October. This time I chose the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87692040/beginner-sewing-pattern-pdf-womens-apron" target="_blank">Urban Wrap Apron</a> pattern <a href="http://www.sarahjanesews.com/2012/06/teacher-gifts-part-1-aprons-coffee.html" target="_blank">again</a>. Stash fabric for this one too, including the fabric for the bias tape. I always read the tutes that say, "You'll never buy bias tape again!" and get suckered into making my own, and then remember that my least favorite parts of sewing are cutting and ironing. Which is basically the entire bias tape making experience. Oh well, at least it's cute, and I have quite a bit left over for something else.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENIMeq18gELc7Pr7nhCwvPzlnnhH51njvMKZ5N3MerTRIwTiqHhmxQbRRudzbSqGBSQ-hbqAOLc_5zi0zg651uHI9zldlbF3KRl5ljPFEjxV4_ktYipmCf4ScKIpk0u-Jj-4GsCb2xqA/s1600/urban-apron-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgENIMeq18gELc7Pr7nhCwvPzlnnhH51njvMKZ5N3MerTRIwTiqHhmxQbRRudzbSqGBSQ-hbqAOLc_5zi0zg651uHI9zldlbF3KRl5ljPFEjxV4_ktYipmCf4ScKIpk0u-Jj-4GsCb2xqA/s640/urban-apron-1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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This apron is super quick to sew up, or would be if you purchased bias tape. I also like that it's very adjustable size-wise.<br />
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<br />Sarah AJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367764920539014414noreply@blogger.com0