link luv roundup

five orange potatoes shows you how to make some fun colored corn starch clay dyed with watercolors! (via the crafty crow)

i can't wait to try my hand at some of these adorable bean bags from "a pretty cool life" for my little ones.

over on "one hip mom" you can find a great little tute on how to use up one of your charm packs and make a twirly skirt.

this pic makes me want to keep knitting....and covet that bag...so lovely. (via a beautiful mess)

ohhhhhhhhh, i cannot wait to get my hands on the upcoming copy of books in the "built by wendy" series. this one is all on dresses!!!! i definitely need it. this series is a must have for any sewer.

the ladies over on kojo designs have whipped up some lovely and simple valentine bags for you to make. so cute! click here for the tute.

i want these pencils from the missIsa shop...any of them to be exact.

my girlfriend and i were discussing our love for wooden buttons on the weekend and then poof, i spotted this little tute on "shrimp salad circus" on how to make wooden brand buttons today! fun, fun, fun! (via craft gossip)

maggie makes shows you how to get into the valentine's spirit with these adorable heart pins. i love that they aren't cheesy and could be worn year round, they would also make a great hair band accessory. (via craftzine)

this pic makes me smile!

this tutorial for a layered jersey skirt looks like the next thing to add to my must make list for mackenzie! perfect for spring! you can find the tute over on "sewing for scarlett".

wanna learn how to make this cool zipper flower? i do! head on over to the "diary of a craftaholic" for the how to.

1) a big thank you to bobbie from the etsy shop "a vision to remember" for being so kind and sending me lovely emails and a free pattern to make this adorable rag quilt! thanks bobbie!
2) make sure head on over to janome soon, they have a fabulous, and i mean fabulous contest going on right now. in fact not just one of them, but two! yep two! you can take part in the "pass it on" contest by clicking here. you get to pair up with a partner, teach someone to sew or learn from someone and enter to win some very nice goodies. or you can enter contest two and submit your entry solo. it's your choice and the prizes are great! regardless both contests sound like lots of fun and i'm going to be sure to enter!
3) there's a new burp cloth tutorial out and i think it may be the easiest one yet! you can find the tutorial over on "the quilting diaries".

moda bake shop's got a cute tute up for a quilted ironing board cover. i was wondering if this could be done and voila - they whipped a recipe up!

dress up a cute tshirt for your little ones with this tute from "3 sweet p's" for a valentines shirt with a matching headband. love is in the air!

things i'm luving this week:

- valentine's printables roundup on thirty handmade days
- find a great list of flowery things to make on how about orange.
- everyone's talking about the poppies, but don't forget about the lovelies as well! i love finding new blogs during this nifty award time. go vote for your faves and show your support!
- great link to a huge lineup of free lingerie sewing patterns. (via whipup)
- for all you canadians out there check out this great new site called "cardswap". you can go and swap, sell or buy gift cards for canadian stores!

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

link luv roundup - it's baaaack!

link luv is back! yep, it's taken me a while and lots of pondering. i wasn't sure if i was going to continue to do this post weekly as it takes me tons and tons of time. no really, my reader is so huge it takes me hours to go through it to find all this fun stuff. after pondering it though and getting back to regular blogging i realized i missed it and it was my fave part of the week to put together for all of you.

i see so many things i luv during my blog adventures that i just can't help but share. if you have a tutorial you would like to see on here or info you would like to share please email me at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca i love hearing from you. also top tutorials is coming up again this year and if you would like to be nominated you must have had your tute posted on luvinthemommyhood.

1) nursery from kenziepoo.com - ohhhhh, love it so much, love the site so much too!
2) playpen storage bag from pickles.com.
3) nursery from kenziepoo.com
4) i've been dying to give my hand at these for a while now - it is seriously time to dress up my paper lamp from ikea. check out this tute from craftynest to make yours too!

i'm crying that i have to give this book back to the library. cal patch's "design-it-yourself clothes: patternmaking simplified" is sure to be on my must have sewing book list. too bad mother's day is so far away, i wish i had put this on my xmas list! check it out if you haven't already, it's a great book for anyone looking to make and sew their own clothes.

ohhhhhhh....the new anthropologie pics have me swooning...and swooning...and swooning....the shoes, the dresses, the tops....oh my.

i don't know about you but i'm sure not sick of the lovely ruffles yet. tea rose home has a sweet tute on how to make this pretty ruffle top. (via 30 days)

oh wow, i am a sucker for throw pillows and over on censational girl you can find out how to make some soft, fluffy, textured ones using the most unusual source.....bathmats! great idea!

wishing i looked like this preggers in a bikini....oh you lucky lady you! her blog is fab too! (via a cup of jo)

i've been seriously behind in my blog reading and fell in love with these three tutorials from make it and love it - 1. pillow 2. green scarf 3. beige scarf

i can't wait to get my hands on the new fabric line nicey jane from heather bailey - gorgeous and so fresh!

i thought this little tute from sew4home to spruce up a plain glass vase was perfect to bring some cheer to all the rainy weather we have been having around here.

1) homemade by jill's got a great printable burp cloth template.
2) adorable gooey hearts day shirt makeover from jessica at happy together.
3) transform your t-shirt into a tunic over on craftstylish.
4) learn how to make an easy elastic waistband for a little girl's skirt over at the mother huddle.

are you a fan of the blog the sartorialist? why not get your giggles on by checking out the new blog the catorialist or a similar idea using toddlers/babies over on planet awesome kid.

things i'm luving this week:

- this comforter set from target...oh target...why won't you ship to canada?
- this post on "how to survive the first seven weeks" (of life with a newborn) from domestic reflections.
- the newest issue of vivalamoda is out! go for a looksie...hurry!
- meet me at mikes has a great line up of crochet school lessons going on right now - crocheting is fun and i love seeing it pop up everywhere nowadays.
- want to show off your personal style? are you a blogger? go post some super stylish pics over your style in the newly created flickr group "bloganistas". love this idea, only wish i thought i was stylish enough to add a pic of myself to the group.
- my hubby, it's his bday today....i love you baby. thank you for being you and making everyday better than the last and for giving me our precious and wonderful babies (as well as that piece of ice cream cake to eat while i type this ) - you're the best xoxoxo

baby girl roundup

(image via: charlotte speaks)

yep, you heard right, well sort of right, the ultrasound may have showed a girl. for some reason i don't feel 100% with the gender, i have way too many friends be told their babies were girls and oops - out came a boy! so in the meantime it's a "maybe girl" in our house.

i have been meaning to put up an ultrasound pic of the baby, man this one is a real mover/shaker, but the pics i scanned in just won't seem to cooperate with photoshop - do not ask me why. so sorry folks, no baby pics yet. hopefully we will get a few more, it sounds like we will be having another ultrasound.

in the meantime, i decided to do a roundup of all my fave baby girl tutes out there! there are a lot, but these just happen to be in my personal favorites on my computer. i recently cleaned this out (have any of you had the guts to do this lately?) and man oh man, quite the shocker! this thing was friggin' ginormous! huge! it took me a few hours just to do my sewing folder, not to mention crafts etc. but it's done, i conquered the beast.

i've been slacking on posting big time as we are getting ready for xmas here and i have been sewing again - yippee! i can't post any pics yet as they are all gifts and it would just ruin the surprise. i have also been doing some blog housekeeping and making plans for the new year. i am hoping (fingers crossed) that the site will be up and back to normal in the new year, until then i am taking it easy and enjoying all the yummy scrumptious family time we have coming up. so without further ado here's luvinthemommyhood's baby girl roundup.








kimono by habitual as well as their sundress pattern.

recycled tshirt sienna dress by lil blue boo.

the shirt dress tutorial from made.

sweater dress repurpose tutorial from smashed peas and carrots.

shirred spaghetti strap dress from ikat bag.

baby dress/tunic from made by petchy.

bubble dress from my mama made it.

t-shirt to toddler dress from happy together.

itty bitty baby dress from made by rae.

oliver +s lazy days skirt pattern, joy's hope bandana dress, bloomers from just tutorials, ruffle butt onesie from crap i've made, baby leg warmers from everything your mama made & more, turn those jeans into skinny jeans with freshly picked.







reversible fabric shoe tutorial from maked - crafts exposed.

stardust cloth shoe - by stardust shoes










burb cloths by a chelsea morning

diaper strap tutorial from calico.

basic chenille baby bibs by happy things.

- another great bib tutorial by nested , denim bib from thimbly things and of course my "placemat to bib tutorial"...tee hee.

diaper changing pad and fleece burp cloth from sew take a hike.

easiest baby hat ever by radical cross stitch, a cute one with ear flaps from blueprints or a reversible bonnet from made by petchy.

baby crinkle square tutorial from joy's hope.

soft baby cubes from london mummy.

fitted crib sheet tutorial from michael miller fabrics, breastfeeding cover tutorial from freshly picked, bird mobile from spool sewing, or a ribbon ring teether toy tutorial by patchy apple.






swaddling blankets from the purl bee.

scruffily quilt tutorial from p.s. i quilt

appliqued ribbon blanket from craftblog, three blankets from sew4home, easy baby jersey blanket from the purl bee, or the baby girl quilt from moda bake shop.







saartjes bootees from saartje knits (ravelry link here).

ribbed baby jacket from debbie bliss (ravelry link here).

norwegian sweet baby cap from gro (ravelry link here).

baby surprise jacket by elizabeth zimmerman, helena 2 by alison gree will (ravelry link here), manda-ruth by jane richmond (ravelry link here) or a baby/kids earflap hat from hey julie.

wowsa! that's quite the roundup, but it was also quite the favorites folder!

please feel free to suggest any other tutorials you may know of in the comments section and i just may do a "part two"! and not to leave boys out, i just may do one in the new year for fun! i love little boy stuff and don't think there are enough tutorials out there for cute boy things.

just in case i don't post again until after xmas i am wishing all of you a wonderful and happy holiday season filled with family and loved ones!

link luv roundup

don't you wish fall looked and felt like this moment everyday?

awww, i'm gushing for alexis...so bear with me. i'm so proud of her for finally starting her very own etsy shop! we featured alexis's blog "my mama made it" a while ago and have been following her everyday since! i can't wait to see what she comes up with next and still can't figure out how she does it all with 3 little ones! congrats alexis!!!

i'm luving these prints from dilka bear - so dreamy and so perfect for my girl's room.

oh my gosh! i am so in love with the coffee table that chez larsson has up this week! her hubby & son made it for her! could you imagine! insert my drool here please....wow! i'll take one! she easily has one of the most organized homes i have ever seen - needless to say, i am an avid reader of her blog for her how to's and great tips for keeping things clutter free.

vanessa over on v&co shows how to refashion a skirt into a dress for the little girl in your life.

learn how to make one cute little manicure kit cover! what a great gift this would make! {via craftgossip}

how cute are this skirt and dress combo from one of our top tutorials winners "cakies"?

take a peek over at the celebration shoppe to make up some of these owl softies for that special little someone in your life! these look like fun! {via craftgossip}

check out the great school lunchbag roundup that whip up's got going on! some great ideas there as well as this post with some helpful links for machine quilting how to's!

learn how to make a cute fabric poppy boutonniere over on grosgrain.

tired of sewing or knitting your grocery totes? why not try crocheting one instead? purl bee has a great little pattern to whip up a few of these lovelies.

here's some promos/contests going on this week that i couldn't miss out on telling you all about:

is your child a budding artist? interested in taking the family on a free cruise? go check out the virtual book of dreams contest held by carnival cruise lines to celebrate their newest ship "carnival dream". kids of ages 7-12 get to draw out their dream to get a chance to win lots of fun prizes for them and the family! click here for more info on rules/regulations and to enter! i love the creativity involved in this giveaway!

i wish i had heard about the site www.babysafetravel.com a long time ago - i think it's fabulous! what a great idea! i could have used this site many a time when we have travelled with mackenzie. bonus is they also have an online boutique with some sweet gear to make travelling with your wee ones a bit easier. enter the promo code 'summertravel' for 10% off baby travel products in the baby boutique.

i've written about chalkboard tees before so i figured i couldn't get away without mentioning the special promo they have going on right now just in time for xmas. get your pre-orders in before december 1st 2009 (they get shipped out 12/12/09) and you receive 20% off! just use the promo code chalkyhood - how sweet is that?!

things i'm luving this week:

-satch & sol is having 15% off everything in their online store this week for back to school till sunday, september 13th. use the promo code "school15". i LOVE this store!
- learn how to make a pediment from a picture frame over on the shabby chic cottage.
- i enjoyed the interview over on gathering sprigs with leslie shewring of "a creative mint".
- i'll take one of everything over on bliss's annual boots roundup - *warning* shoeaholics beware, this is a dangerous, dangerous post! i had to hide my credit cards!
- craftypod's got a new e-book out called "creating a blog audience". you may remember her first one making the rounds entitled "making a great blog: a guide for creative people".
- you a fan of the blog darling dexter? make sure to check out her newly launched etsy shop "whitney deal".
- check out the catalogue from tine k home and be prepared to drool and want to print out everything for your inspiration board - lovely, lovely things. {via decor8}
- great roundup of tea cosies over on "meet me at mike's".
- digging the site poladroid after reading about it over on the lil blue boo. it's fun and easy to use! so dig up some pics and polaroid the heck outta them!
- katie from the blog katie did is back with the cutest sprinkler suit i have ever seen.
- we've all been pondering making our own undies so why not our bras too? here's a tute over on instructables if you wanna give it a shot!
- i'm all over this sweater refashion for the fall/winter season! find out how to refashion one of your own over on smashed peas and carrots! too cute!
- i'm going to making up some of these adorable diaper straps from calico to help keep all those stray diapers from flying around in your bag - great idea!
what are you luving from this post? what projects are you linking this week?

link luv roundup

image by rita lino

how are you feeling today? got the giggles? mackenzie and i had our fair share of laugh attacks yesterday. don't you think if we all had a good giggle fit a day the world would be a much happier place?

i am in luv with this embroidery project from the lovely alicia from posie gets cozy over on sew mama sew. this is definitely on my to do list for the winter!

aren't these fab? these would look so darling in a little girls room or playroom. you can find the how to on how to make your own from egg cartons on esprit cabane. {via ohdeedoh}

i love that this mom took her daughter's drawings of the outfits she would love to wear and turned them into her fall wardrobe! you can see the process here on the blog "in my shoes". {via craftzine}


i am coveting these from west elm...oh, little birdies, come live on my mantle.

here's a great list of 20 adorable amigurumi critters compiled over on "meet me at mikes".


i went to old navy recently to try these on, didn't like them but i ended up going home with this in black instead! c'mon evening chill, bring it on - i'm ready.....well, almost.

yummmmm, i'll take a double serving of these potates tonight for dinner! the cooking blog "fresh 365" is a great resource for some yummy recipes.

another cute take on the men's shirt to dress fad from the blog "lili ash". {via craft gossip}

we attended our close friends chris & jill's lovely wedding a few weeks ago and i couldn't resist mentioning the wonderful work their photographer does! check out kennedy photografik to see some lovely, lovley photos and if you're anywhere on vancouver island or the mainland, don't hesitate to get in touch with jennifer for your photography needs - she's wonderful and super sweet!

i swooned when i saw this post on betz white's blog on how to take a random hum drum tote bag and recover it using the original bag as a liner!!! what a fab idea!!

the new knitting patterns over on pickles make me actually a bit excited for the fall and chilly weather.

make sure to get your entry in over on sfgirlbybay for your chance to win some new amy butler bedding that i have been dreaming about!!!

what a great idea for using up some old tshirts - why not turn them into a quilt?

a new cute little book out called "creature crochet" by kristen rask.

is it already that time of year? i couldn't resist posting about this pattern for a quilted tree skirt. i don't have one and i plan on getting one of these bad boys done in time for xmas.

this is for sure the next thing i am going to find time to sew for mackenzie. i drooled when i saw dana's version of this top! you can find the tute from candace for this adorable tutorial on one of my fave blogs - sparkle power!

things i'm luving this week:

- love this tutorial for dressing up a plain jane shirt with some posies!
- a great roundup of "crafting for good" links over on 30 days.
- i'm all over weardrobe and what i wore lately - so fun to see what everyone is donning these days!
- a great diy for natural air freshener.
- the blog chez larsson now has a new shop as well as my fave quilter rachel over on ps. i quilt.
- some tips on how to make a comfortable nursing area over on ohdeedoh.
- samster's mommy shows you how to make your own "don't wake the baby sign".

what are you luving this week? any fun projects on the go?

link luv roundup

isn't this fabulous! i never would have thought of doing this and i have a knife rack exactly like this that i stare at daily! what a great way to add some color to the kitchen! make one for yourself with the how to over on the farm chicks.

i'm swooning over all the lovely goodies on ninainvorm's shop!

lovely, lovely, lovely photo. i've been feeling like this lately - have you?

i just picked up some of this fabric from ikea and swooned when i saw this project made from it over on revoluzza! there are goodies galore on this blog! {via whipup}

i adored these flip dolls when i was a kid! i was so happy to see we wilsons do an easy tute to make one for my daughter to play with!

i wish i could spend a few hours in this shop! so gorgeous!

ohhh, another knitting book to add to my wish list! i love the title of this book "pints and purls - portable projects for the social knitter" and the projects are hilarious! a must read for any social knitter!

get your kids ready for school/preschool with this tute for sewing your own school bags over on make it do.

ummm, if i could ever get the courage up to actually learn how to surf instead of just dreaming of one day doing it, i would want one of these!

oh joy! has released the loveliest home office collection through chronicle books! oh how i wished my budget allowed for me to go nuts over on the chronicle books website. i find it hard to control the drool factor when perusing their latest goodies.

learn how to make your own pottery barn looking decorative balls with the fabulously talented vanessa over on v&co!

this is for you dana! hope the move goes well ya cowgirl you!!! yee-haw!! make sure to make up your own batch of cowgirl cookies from bakerella in honor of dana from the blog made!

i was so excited to stumble upon the new online gallery "lovely clusters". rachel already has a blog under the same name and this is an extension of it that is a wonderful and gorgeous collection of beautiful handmade goods by designers and artists linking to their shops. the icing on the cake is that you can shop by color cluster! yes, dreamy shoppers rejoice! pick your fave colour and then get clicking. she's teamed up with vicki from "simply hue" and together they have made what is sure to be one of my fave places to shop!

i'm going to be knitting these as soon as the warm weather is gone.

you all know i am a fan of the blog heart of light and i was ecstatic when catching up on my reader that she has launched an etsy store under the same name! go pick up a cute headband!

diy canvas frame inspiration board over on creature comforts

eye candy for you quilters out there! check out this beauty from jaybirdquilts over on moda bake shop! great job hun!

one of my fave knitting blogs pickles has launched a new store! plus i'm all over this shawl for the early fall!

thank you oliver and s, for another great free pattern!

kate's at it again! check out her latest diy - headboard turned coat rack!

i don't have anything to say about this link except it's friggin wonderful!!!!! go check it out! who's your girl crush?

things i'm luving this week:

- the new vintage clothing store 13 bees on etsy
- all the clothes in the new fall line from mishalulu {via cakies} and olive juice kids.
- super excited by the rumour that american apparel is opening up here in victoria!!!
- the office administrator in me secretly drooled when i spotted this post over on bakery today. fear not those looking for spreadsheets, this is a must favorite for any home or business.
- have you redecorated your bedroom and think it kicks ass? make sure to enter this contest over on coco + kelly to win some super prizes!
- i'm hearting the creativity over on the blog "color me katie"! {via a little sussy}
- make sure to download your copy of parasol's newest zine "parasol craft"!
- creative kismet has a great how to on making your own recycled bag art journals!
- keep those baby legs warm with this super easy baby legs tutorial from calico! i love this!
- are you a font lover like me? check out this roundup of free fonts galore!
- check out indie fixx's annual back to school guide for 2009.
- take a peek at this shirt refashion done two ways on "homemade by jill"! i'm all over the pillowcase! great idea!

what are you link luving this week? any new faves?

link luv roundup

{image via}

i'm starting to get the feeling that scary feeling that summer is almost over.......

i love the simpleness of this print. (via oh, hello friend)

hurry over to the etsy blog "the storque" for your free copy of the smocked sundress from one of my fave books "weekend sewing" by heather ross.

i can't wait to get my hands on something wooden to give this a shot!

refashion a dish towel into this handy kids art apron.

isn't this smocking gorgeous? so fun & retro!!!

these would be perfect for any baby shower or new mom.

i luv anything betz white does but these little felted balls just brightened up my day! so cheerful! while you're over there make sure to check out her new fabric line - i seriously drool over my entire keyboard every time i see it.

i am planning on crocheting up some of these lovelies to brighten up my place with some hawaiian color.

i really need to work on my quilting skills, one day i will, i will, i will attempt to accomplish these....emphasis on the "attempt"......a newbie sewer can dream right? get the how to for each of these blocks here, here and here.

this refashion over on "thimbly things" is to die for! seriously, i can't get over the before & after! love it!

i'm drooling (yep, i've been drooling a lot these days) over the prints in this lovely, fresh summer quilt. (via sew, mamma, sew!)

i want these pillows from sfgirlbybay's favorite things post over on decor8!

i would like to try having a go at this cute dress, what fabric would you guys make it in?

make it and love it has a super sized refashion on how to turn two shirts into an adorable leggings/skirt combo! fabulous!

yummy! peach cupcakes with brown sugar frosting! oh smitten kitchen how i adore you!

i think this belt is pretty much fabulous! get the how to here. (via one pretty thing)

things i'm luving this week:

- so friggin' excited this album is coming out!!!!!
- wonderful, wonderful, wool skirt refashion perfect for the fall over on the sewing dork.
- check out another great diy from "censational girl" on how to make your own cement candle holders!
- turn a hippie skirt into a hippie shirt over on "stop staring and start sewing".
- find a new and inexpensive way to hang painted plates by "the shabby chic cottage".
- i am definitely giving this a whirl! another great xmas gift to add to the list - gorgeous handmade embroidered sachets! find the tute here! (via craft gossip)
- make sure to pop by the new flickr group "crocheted interiors" for some fun inspiration.
- have you signed up for the newest round of "craft hope" yet? it's sock monkey making time and it's all for a good cause!
- have any of you been using the site "freecycle" yet? how do you like it? good or bad experiences?
- in the mood for some craft swaps? head over to "made by petchy" for a bag swap or to "my mamma made it" for a little giving and receiving.
- get making your own ruffly, tank top refashion with this great tute and then make this comfy skirt for your little one in 20 minutes!
- i'm entering this giveaway.

what are you drooling over this week?

link luv roundup

i can't stop staring at this...i swear i can feel the flowers.

don't miss out on the next round of the photo e-course "unravelling" by the wonderfully talented susannah conway.

isn't this baby blanket fabulous? i luv it! designer lisa rupp made one for her little one (she designed the print) and is now selling the fabric so you can whip up your very own! the colors are so fresh and yummy! {via twig & thistle}

the sweet & lovely kristen has a new social bookmarking site for crafters that you must check out called "craftig"! this site looks like lots of fun and is a must subscribe for anyone on the lookout for craft projects galore.

chez larsson has to have one of the most organized and neatest homes i have ever seen. she is sure to give martha a run for her money when it comes to nifty tricks to spruce up your dirty closets. here's a great trick she did to revamp some drawer organizers.

lisa congdon's fave things posted on decor8 belong in my home :)

haven't you always wanted to try this................or is it just me & the photographer???

oh so delicious free tutorials for some bright baby room essentials over on sew4home!

isn't this just the sweetest pic?

ashley from lil blue boo (one of my current fave blogs) has a whack load of new tutes to share but this little wagon cover caught my eye and i thought it was a great idea to soften up a bumpy ride. click here for the how to.

i stumbled for what felt like hours to figure out the binding on my quilt for mackenzie, but i will stumble no more. the sometimes crafter has come to us newbie sewers rescue and posted this handy three part post to show us the in's and outs of binding! thanks christina!

i luv this refashion over on samster mommy on how she took a pair of her old cargo pants and revamped them into drawstring pants for her little girl! great idea! {via craft gossip}

i drooled over these gorgeous book covers! lovely illustrations!

things i'm luving this week:

- mique from 30 handmade days is right at the top of my list for my fave blogging ladies! she is such a sweetheart! if you want to know a bit more about me, head on over to her rockin blog to read an interview she did about lil'ol me! so fun! thanks so much mique! maybe i can interview you next time???
- artist samantha hahn is having an original art sale in her etsy shop!
- great list of baby barettes how to's on dollar store crafts.
- this breakfast panini looks delicious!
- speaking of food, i have been having a hard time deciding what to make first over on the pioneer woman ree drummond's new cooking site "tasty kitchen". how fun is this site? is there anything this funny & talented woman can't do???
- learn how to fold hospital corners for the perfect bed and to make an instant air freshener for small spaces over on AT.
- casasugar shows how to steal ideas from the august issue of anthropologie catalogue for your home.
- i seriously would kill to work in an office like this!

what are you luving this week?

pj's to summer tunic tutorial!

i have been spotting all the cute tunic shirts with a drawstring lately and decided that i wanted to make one of my own. after i couldn't find a pattern that i could actually understand i decided to wing it - my fave thing to do! the result was a pair of my favourite jammies providing me with inspiration, a splash of fun colour and an easy way to make a stylish, customizable tunic, romper, or dress! so go get out your fave pj’s or raid La Senza and sew your way to a stylish summer must have!

(the pics for this post were tricky - they don't do the shirt justice. i'll post better pics later if get some.)

for those of you new to the "newbie sewing series" we provide a tutorial geared towards anyone who sews, but mostly for those who are learning, like me. you get a pdf download of the tutorial and also a handmade video of lil'ol me making them. there may not always be the correct terminology, or the best process, but that's what it's all about when you are learning to sew, it's not always perfect, but it's sure fun.


click here for the pdf download

and here for the video tutorial.

let's have some fun and think outside of the box. we all have tons of interesting materials at home that can be refashioned into something we want to wear and love again. your favorite pair of jammies don't need to be turned into cleaning rags or donated, why not use the much loved fabric to make something you are sure to wear for the summer and with a cute cardigan for the fall. our creativity is a powerful thing that we can all use together to fight the effects of the economy and the environment.

so whip out the sewing machines and show me your creativity in full swing! make sure to join our luvinthemommyhood flickr group and share those projects that you have refashioned! happy sewing!

{all images luvinthemommyhood}

link luv roundup

kate from "censational girl" emailed me the link to this super fabulous diy project for your very own drying rack! i am over the moon about this project and only wish i had a more room in my apartment so i could make one. i swear i heard my bras/panties begging to be hung to dry on this lovely rack.

i am all over this photo today, so peaceful.

i am swooning, and i mean swooning over this pattern from classic elite yarns and have decided this is going to be my go to cardi for the fall. i just need to find the right wool and save my pennies to buy the pattern. why oh why can't this be one of the freebies? (via a friend to knit with)

pretty up your office by making your very own framed bulletin board. learn how here. (via craft gossip)

i so want to be soaking in this bath tub right now.....i was busy ogling the pages of this month's "house beautiful" while we were camping this weekend. lots of lovelies in this month's issue.

darling dexter - i so badly want your skirt or to find out what pattern you used to make it.

1) teach your wee ones the alphabet and spelling with this pretty little tute from "lil blue boo".
2) my ipod arm band looks shabby in comparison to this one from "make it and love it". i will definitely be making one and loving it...sorry, couldn't resist =)
3) i have been on the lookout for a great wallet tutorial when this pretty one popped up in my radar. (via craft gossip)

the purl bee has a quick, warm knit baby blanket pattern up that's just perfect for all those baby showers coming up. i love the color combos!

dana - move to victoria so we can hang out, i beg you.....no? maybe a visit? ok, i guess i will have to get me some cowboy boots and come out your way lady and no, i'm not stalking you, i just wonder what it would be like to have a face to face conversation while our kids play together. that's not stalkerish is it? in the meantime i will be making mackenzie one of your super fabulous market skirts. so fun!

things i'm luving this week:

- this fresh blueberry syrup for coffees, teas and any other yummy thing you want to add it to.
- make sure to sign up for scoutie girls new newsletter "throw me a bone".
- learn how to refashion a men's dress shirt into a stylish strapless cami.
- i have been needing a pin cushion and this one from one of my fave bloggers julie from jaybird quilts is definitely on the top of my list. make sure to check out her other fabulous tutes over on moda bake shop. (i seriously am hiding in your suitcase so i can come to houston with you and rachel..lol)

link luv roundup

i'm loving the necklaces as much as i'm loving the blog "for me, for you".

here's a great new easy fabric scarf/shawl tutorial from "pretty ditty".

my fave photo of the week

wonderfully lovely, cheerful and bright free printable notecards from creature comforts.

i wish this is what my table looked like......

i am dying to get my hands on one of the newly released small magazine orginal art coloring books. what a great break from the regular kids stuff you find at walmart etc. we also like to make our own coloring books at home here using photoshop. mackenzie loves coloring pics of herself or friends.

learn how to make this vintage tea towel throw pillow over on "girls kick ass". {via whip up}

and just in case you haven't already heard the sartorialist has a book coming out on Aug. 12th - insert drool!

make sure to swing by "happy together" to check out two, yep, not just one, two great new tutes on refashioning a tshirt for your little girl complete with ruffles and flowers. these are definitely on the top of my to make list! thanks jessica!

i want to move into this studio pronto! lovely, lovely, lovely....

things i'm luving this week:

- lamp makeover on "shabby chic cottage".
- homemade flea repellent recipe on craft.
- i'll be whipping up some lavender eye pillows with this tute from calli on "make it do".
- check out this great lovely package exchange.
- whip up has a great roundup of refashion projects to drool over.
- label tutorial using spoonflower over on jaybird quilts.
- this new blog is sure to be one my new faves. please swing by "the creative life" and join in on the conversation. {via craft}

summer braid scarf

how fun is this braided scarf? i just can't get enough of these t-shirt scarfs/necklaces. they are so easy to make, cost next to nothing and look so stylish! you can find the pattern to make your own over on one of my fave knitting sites "pickles".

what do you guys think of this growing trend? would you wear one?

hope you are all having a great weekend and "happy father's day" to all you proud daddies out there.

new tutorials on the luvinthemommyhood radar

i spotted these tutorials yesterday and just couldn't wait until saturday to post them in the link luv roundup.

i am all over this leather necklace tutorial from cucumbersome! i am not a huge leather fan, but i do think the idea of refashioning an old second hand leather jacket into a few necklaces, it sounds fun and environmentally friendly.

i had been crossing my fingers that jessica from "happy together" (one of my fave blogs and an upcoming "mom in the mommyhood") was going to do a tutorial for this super cute ruffle top after she gave us a peek of the first one she made a week ago. i can't wait to make this!

link luv roundup

{images: honer akrawi}

feeling inspired by the softness of the images in the rita saardi "private garden" collection (via luphia loves).

dieters beware! creature comforts has a tummy growling cupcake roundup and also a tutorial to repurpose your paper to deck out your cupcake and your room!

ohhh, paris, i hear you calling my name. check out the gorgeous pics from lobster and swan.

i might actually go out in public in a bathing suit in one of these beauties! retro swimsuits fever over on country living

softie alert! i got a kick out of these little mammal finger puppets from sotosofties and who could resist this snake tie!

i was wowed by this diy on censational girl. see how she changed this lonesome old footboard into a pretty message center!

1. happy together shows us how to make your own vintage clutch.
2. check out this newspaper basket on how about orange!
3. make some of these fun bean bag rocks from salt and chocolate (via one crafty place).

there has been so many wonderful and exciting refashioning tutes floating around lately and this one on thimbly things is one to add to your list. i know we all have worn one of these old denim jumpers in our lifetimes so go take a peek at her tutorial on how to revive and refashion it into one cute dress!

i've been sitting here listening to "heavenly day" by patty griffin and staring at these gorgeous, gorgeous drops and drooling over sfgirl's inspiration board roundup, finding father's day gift ideas over on photojojo, entering to win a fat quarter bundle giveaway and hoping to try this "grilled lemon oregano tofu"!

make sure you take a look at this great site - www.morecloth.com {via tiny decor}to help make buying fabric on etsy that much easier. they help you shop by the color of the fabric you are looking for and there are some great free quilt patterns up at michael miller fabrics to inspire you as well. the lovely rachel of "p.s. i quilt" has a super tute up on how to make your own sewing labels - so handy! there's also a fun post on making bean bag letters for your little ones here and learn how to make your own golden goddess gown in 2 hours with no patterns - wow!

happy link luvin!

my mama made it - new blog on the mommyhood radar!

i noticed a brand new blog the other day "my mama made it" and couldn't resist mentioning the lovely alexis's wonderful sewing, repurposing and refashioning skills. her kids are so adorable and so are her outfits! alexis has a great tute up right now for giving an old blouse or men's shirt a pretty new life with a pleated or ruffled collar made from the sleeves! so smart!

go pop over and say hi to alexis! you're sure to get some great ideas from some of her projects. i know she's got a lot more coming too...i can't wait to see what she makes next! she literally started her blog on may 30th so stay tuned!

TUTORIAL || DAD'S TIE TO GADGET CASE

father's day is coming up right around the corner and who need another cheesy father's day gift? nevertheless another tie? why not make your hubby a father's day gift this year he can use. 

let's admit it; most men nowadays have a cell phone, camera, iPod that they are using. they may also have a lot of ties kicking around. so instead of buying yet another tie for father's day this year, why not refashion one he doesn't wear anymore?

what's great is this project involves only a little bit of sewing, some fun seam ripping (the kids love this) and dad can use it as a functioning gift. you're helping the environment by reusing and refashioning an article of clothing in your home and also being easy on your wallet.


remember to let your little one's pick out the tie and be part of the fun. they love to help hold the thread, watch you use your scissors, and be part of the overall magic when making gifts that are handmade for ones they love. so go raid the closets, dig through your donation pile, or head on down to your local thrift store, find a fun and funky patterned tie - this is one project that is sure to be lots of fun.

some crafts make use of craft supplies most households have lying around, but we are going to present you with crafts that use things you have lying around but have not thought of for creating new items from. get ready to raid the donation pile before taking it to the thrift store (or even your husband's closet while he is at work - but don't tell him we put you up to it) and start showing some creativity.

***Copyright 2009 www.luvinthemommyhood.com

All rights reserved. For personal use only. Please do not sell items made from this tutorial unless permission has been given.

click here for the dad's tie to gadget case tutorial in downloadable pdf format.

have fun and make sure to add your pics to our flickr group! we love to see what you are making!

link luv roundup

i'm adoring this refashion over on grosgrain

i can't wait to try this project out! learn how to turn those old paint cans into a planter! what great idea! you can find the how to over on censational girl.


check out the new fabric line "au.then.tic" from sweetwater. {via craftgossip}

i am a font addict. these beauties were rounded up over at how about orange. you can find these fonts and much more over on dafont.
my birthday is coming up next month - ahhhh! it sure would make it a lot easier to bear if my hubby surprised me with one of these handy pin cushion rings from artnest.

i have a love affair with pine cones. i have them hidden in all sorts of decorative manners all throughout my home. we love them in our household, so when i saw this bird feeder tute over on make and takes i had to post it.

i've got another tutorial from amazing mae this week. she's keeping me busy with all her goodies lately. this one is for a comfy, summer linen skirt. i luv the ruffles!

brit from cucumbersome featured a lovely tute for the corsage shirt from curiousitys that was a finalist in the spring top week over on made by rae.

need to knit a cover for that plastic deck chair you have? why the heck not? this was too fun and funky not to post about. you can find the pattern here or here.

Cinder & Smoke from karmaticoma on Vimeo.

a fave song of mine caught my attention over on one of my daily reads "for me, for you". isn't it always fun when you discover a talent that you never knew someone had? love that she sings, and love that she shares her singing even more.

there has been a lot of goodness floating around the blogging world this week and i can't contain it all in this one post. if you have room for more goodies in your to make pile, check out how to turn a men's shirt into a child's smock here and how to turn that onesie into a shirt for your toddler here.

what are you loving this week?

how to make your own underwear - ban the wedgie!

{image: kimmiepivet}

i caught cal patch over on craftstylish showing how to whip up some comfy undies all on your own today. the best part of these panties - they are made from an old t-shirt! yes, these would be some damn comfy undies. at this rate my hubby is not going to have any clothes left in his closet.

{image: cal patch}

i started thinking that there just might be other people out there making their own panties and low and behold - wowsa! there are some panty making lovelies out there. here's a roundup:

{image: amy karol}

amy karol of angry chicken and the fab book "bend the rules sewing" shows how she made her new fave pantie sets here and here.

intimate guide shows how to sew your own pretty knickers here.

make something shows how she created these homemade underwear with ruffle trim and all.

another creative use of your fave t-shirt turned panty over on supernaturale.

diy: how to make your own underwear video tute from threadbanger!

you can also find a fun, flirty, free pattern for cheeky panties on burdastyle and another video tutorial showing how to make a panty (bikini bottom) here.

so go take a second look at those t-shirts in your closet and instead of wearing another pair of tight, wedgie giving undies, why not make yourself a pair to fit your measurements?

what's your favorite pair of panties? would you make your own undies? we want to hear your thoughts :)