Some sewing

I have not been sewing very much lately... as in pretty much not at all. Sometimes I just need a break from things. When I do return I am invigorated and full of fresh new idea's to conquer. I have not arrived at this point with sewing, just yet. Although I am enjoying my time away devouring books.

I make this bag a few weeks back, for my mother-in-law. I LOVE the madmen-esq fabric. I had been saving this one for awhile, not quite sure what to make with it. She loves shoes and anything from this era. She's a really awesome person and like a mother to me, as well as my husband [her actual child.lol]. My children adore her and she treats them all with equal love and compassion. She understands them individually, and as a group. It actually makes it a little more difficult to make her stuff because I want it to be just right.  Now, I need to add a little clutch in this fabric on my to-do list for myself. Love this fabric!

Happy Birthday

Today is my Birthday!! I decided to use a little bit of "free" time [aka-nap time] t finally sew this makeup bag. I've had the pieces cut for this since Thanksgiving. If today isn't a good day to make something for myself, I don't know when is. I love the blue circles of this print. They pair nicely with the blue lining fabric. The pattern is from the Heather Ross book, Weekend Sewing.

This year will be my very last year in my 20's-man am I feeling old today. I remember when I thought I'd never be 30, and it's looming in the near future now! To counteract this feeling, I've been thinking of all the amazing things that will happen in my 29th year. I will give birth for the fourth time. My family will grow, which is always amazing! I plan to try and find a tiny bit of "me" time and get back into painting. I will get to watch my children grow and learn through everyday experiences and homeschool. So many unknown and great things can happen in the next year. I want to enjoy each and every one!

Spring

With the upcoming arrival of Spring, I've been dreaming of lush grass, warm sunshine and color! The past week has been spent in a frenzy of house cleaning and sewing. I usually make most of Miss {M}'s clothes for the warmer months, and a few things for the boys. With the baby due to arrive in 2 short months[!] I needed to get started!

I made this fun reversible jumper from a Sandy Henderson pattern. I love how easy & quick this design is! The shirt I made from this pattern last year was well worn!! There is just something so fun to kids about "reversible" clothes too! My favorite part is the fun button details down the back!

Reverses to the pink stripes print-so pretty!

Every new season needs a new handbag. This one turned out so cute, I considered keeping it for myself. This fun print is a Japanese import that I've been holding onto! I used the Made by Rae bag pattern. It was easy to follow and quick too! I see some family birthday gifts in the making.

This weekend, I have more sewing on the adgenda, and kids club tomorrow at Whole Foods-the kids are super excited! What's your weekend look like?

Independence Day Festival

The festival went great over the weekend. Here's a few pics of my booth space. We had a really nice spot with pretty sunshine filtering in throughout most of the day. This was the only outdoor show, all year that it didn't rain on us. I was SO thankful!!

I got to chat with some awesome former customers, meet some really cool new one's, and talk with some old friends. My favorite moment of the day was playing with a sweet little toddler named, Theo. He has the prettiest little curls in his hair, and an awesome personality.

It was a long, long day, as I arrived about 9:45am and left at 10pm. There was so much going on with vendors checking in, traffic jams and getting the bands, artists and customer, but they pulled if off great[not an easy task]!! Lots of cool stuff to see, lots of fun people to meet.

I even picked up some pretty new blue & green wool yarn. This time, I am actually making something for myself! Yay!

::Sweater Balls and Quilts::

:: Scarves, tote bags and skirts ::

::Center of booth ::

:: More scarves and my mannequin ::

Promo Swap!

Anyone interested in a promo swap? I make fun little giveaway bags and pass them out at my craft shows. I think it's a great way to help promote handmade and other artists.

I plan on passing these out at Craftin Outlaws on October 17th.

I'm looking for any promotional items you'd like to send-coupons, postcards, samples, moo cards, buttons, bookmarks, samples, pamphlets, etc.

I hope to do at least 100 bags, depending on how many people are interested. In the past I have done anywhere from 100-200 for a show!

It's a great inexpensive way to be seen by people already interested in buying handmade. If you'd like to be included in the bags, post a comment here with a way for you to reach me, or send me a quick convo on Etsy and I'll send you my address.

Everyone is welcome!! I would need everyting by October 8th so I have time to get things put together.

[The pictures here are a few bags from previous shows]