SEWING || THE SALLY DRESS PATTERN IS HERE!!

THE SALLY DRESS PDF SEWING PATTERN ||  BUY NOW

The Sally Dress is here!!! Yay! I'm so gosh darn excited about this dress! I hope you will all enjoy it as much as my girls and I do! 

The Sally Dress was part of the Vintage May Series earlier this year (you can read more about it here) and was inspired by the lovely character Sally Draper of the hit tv show Mad Men. I wanted to create a dress that was vintage inspired but still modern. I love dress silhouettes that work well with fabric pairings and customization. A little trim, piping or piecing on the bodice,  fun pockets (lining and outer) and this dress can have a whole new look! Switch up your skirt and bodice prints, go with solids - you name it - The Sally Dress can roll with it. The Sally Dress is sized for 2T - 8 and is suitable for an Advanced Beginner/Intermediate level sewer.

THE SALLY DRESS PDF SEWING PATTERN ||  BUY NOW

Want to flex your sewing muscles? 

All of the The Sally Dress versions are fully lined (I love me a lined dress) and comes with sleeveless, short sleeve and elbow length sleeve options. I love it's square neckline and the fact that there are no closures!!! Say what? Yep - I said it - no closures! This is a slip on/slip off kinda dress. Fun right? If you make the Sally Dress you will see that to account for the larger sizes the bodices jump up a bit in size. This is to account for the head size and to enable a larger child to get the dress on and off without too much assistance. So please choose your sizes carefully when sewing. You  may even want to do up a muslin first to make sure the fit is good for your child. The bodice fits a tad looser than on the younger styles but is still equally as adorable if you ask me :)

THE SALLY PATTERN FEATURES:

:: sizes 2T-8

:: fully lined bodice

:: square neckline

:: no closures

:: sleeveless and 2 sleeve length options

:: clear and easy to understand step by step instructions with a professional finish

:: 24 page color PDF sewing pattern

:: size chart, fabric requirements, notions, and sewing tips/glossary to ensure a great fit

:: bright & colorful photography

:: a great sewing experience

The Sally Dress is available to purchase at the following:

MY SHOP  ||  ETSY  ||  GO TO PATTERNS || CRAFTSY (coming soon)

What's new for The Sally Dress? One of my favorite things about The Sally Dress Pattern itself is the diagrams. 

It's been a personal goal of mine to have the whole sewing pattern be in diagrams and I'm super excited to have been able to do them all myself. Illustrator and I have become quite good friends. Even though we had a few tiffs...lol, we're now in a good place. I hope to learn more and improve upon what I've already established for the next set of patterns. I hope you enjoy them and that you find it clear and easy to follow. It was a new fun and creative outlet for me. I love to draw so this kind of technical drawing really opened up a new way of thinking for me that I enjoyed.

I have to give a huge shout out to my testers for The Sally Dress. They all worked so hard and some made more than a few Sally dresses! I love you guys! Thank you for all of your support for this pattern and for all your feedback. In the next few weeks we will be showing off their hard work here on the blog. I can't wait to show you some of the versions that were sewn up! Just stunning! So stay tuned for that and also an upcoming Sally Dress Pattern Tour!!! Yay!

I also have to give a special shout out to Karen of One Girl Circus for all of her help and support during the making of the Sally Dress. Big hugs luv! Karen is so awesome she even has a great tutorial on her blog to give you guys a visual walk through of how to sew sleeves into a lined bodice today! Yay! This is a great asset to our full pattern and I recommend checking it out! I love me a bit of hand sewing. There's something so comforting about sitting down and enjoying the calm of creating some lovely finishing touches to your garment. A clean finish is priceless in my book.

and now for some more pics....I just can't resist...my littlest just looks so darn cute in her Sally Dresses. You can also find more pics in my shop here!

I hope you feel inspired and are ready to get sewing The Sally Dress! It's such a great feeling when your wee one is wearing a dress you made with love and someone approaches you and says "where did you buy her dress?"! It makes my heart swell and my girls just love it! It's one of the little things in life that I cherish. So grab some of your absolute favorite fabric and get creative and sew up a Sally Dress today! 

THE SALLY DRESS PDF SEWING PATTERN || BUY NOW

Have you made a Sally Dress? Make sure to add your pictures to our Flickr Group so we can see your versions! I can't wait! For any pattern support or questions please email me at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca I hope you enjoy the dress and thank you so very much in advance for all of your support! Happy sewing! xoxoxox

||  FABRICS USED  ||

Elbow Length Sleeve Version:
- Calico Lilac from Briar Rose by Heather Ross for Windham Fabrics.
- Strawberry Lilac from Briar Rose by Heather Ross for Windham Fabrics.

Sleeveless Version:
- Floradots in Saffron by Erin McMorris for Free Spirit Fabrics.
- Bodice and pocket are lined with Hidden Treasures Gold from Indie by Pat Bravo for Art Gallery Fabrics.

GIVEAWAY || LUNDEN DESIGNS SEWING PATTERN COLLECTION!!

i just got back from a mini vacay just in time to giveaway an amazing prize from one of my favorite quilt pattern designers!!

melissa of lunden designs sewing patterns is celebrating her one year anniversary and release of her paper pattern collection in digital form! so in honor of this we decided to throw a BIG giveaway!!! melissa's patterns are modern, fun, and a joy to make! ever since i spotted her stargazer pattern on pinterest last year i have been a huge fan of melissa's designs. we bonded over our love of birch organic fabrics and i always look forward to what she's going to make next! as you can see in the picture above i looooove her patterns. that's my personal collection :)

and on top of the giveaway she's also offering a 15% discount off her etsy shop until 08/18 with the coupon code "DIGILOVE"!!! so grab your fave fabrics and make yourself a lovely new quilt!!!

so if you're looking to get inspired by a well written and exciting quilt pattern with beautiful results i highly recommend lunden designs sewing patterns!

are you ready to find out what the prize is? yay!

\\ THE PRIZE \\
- one lucky winner will the ENTIRE collection of lunden designs sewing patterns in digital form!!!

\\ HOW TO ENTER \\
- simply leave me a comment letting me know which quilt pattern is your fave of lunden designs.

\\ THE RULES \\
- you must leave a valid email address in your comment or you will be disqualified.
- giveaway is open until 08/18/2013, midnight, pst.

a big thank you to melissa of lunden designs for the super generous giveaway! thanks hun and here's to another fabulous and amazing year!!! and thank you to all of you for your entries! happy quilting!!!

website  |  blog  |  shop  |  facebook

SEWING WITH KNITS || CATE'S COWL - FREE TUTORIAL!

who's in the mood for a free tutorial? me! me! me! you're gonna love this one!

it was my bday in june and i splurged on some new workout outfits for myself and while shopping i came across a fabulous cowl that you could wear ruched or unruched - so fun!!! the cowl had channels running down either end of it allowing you to wear it in various styles. i was IN LOVE!

since then i haven't been able to stop thinking about it and with a hefty price tag i decided to just whip one up for myself. once done i realized that i had to share because i have been wearing this cowl non-stop. and i mean non stop. it's so comfy and soft and versatile and....well i could just go on and on but i'll save your from listening so you have more time to sew one up for yourself.

 

the cowl is named after my lovely and sweet friend cate who is ever so stylish and always has the best outfits/shoes on. i only wish i was her size so i could steal them all...lol. 

she was shopping with me that day and i had to get her to model it for you as well! i hope you all enjoy it as much as i do! this cowl really is the perfect accessory. xmas is just around the corner too and it sews up fast! so if  you've been scared of sewing with knits before now is the time to conquer it! this is a great project for practicing sewing with knits!

RUCHED....

 

 

NOT RUCHED...

you ready to sew with me? yahoo! let's get those knits ready!

TIPS FOR SEWING WITH KNITS
Sew with a straight stitch suitable for knits with your machine. I like to go up about 2 numbers in length for my machine. You could also use a zig zag stitch or choose to do a zig zag stitch and a straight stitch together to reinforce it. You could also use an overlock stitch on your machine if you have one. And if you have a serger just use that :) I also recommend if you are sewing with a regular machine to use a needle for knits. Trust me on that one. It helps tons. You can use any of these methods in the tutorial below.

CATE'S COWL TUTORIAL

MATERIALS
- 2 yds stretch fabric (I used a black tribal print that was a cotton jersey blend (it's sold out sorry) from www.girlcharlee.com)
- coordinating thread
- stretch needle for your machine (optional)
- long pieces of ribbon or elastic (optional)
- rotary cutter with mat or scissors

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP ONE - CUTTING OUT YOUR TIES

*NOTE: IF YOU ARE USING RIBBON OR ELASTIC PLEASE MOVE ON TO STEP TWO.

Cut 2 strips of fabric 2"W x (height of your yardage) along the entire side edge of your fabric (I used my selvages for my ties). When cutting your fabric you should have your selvages running along the left and right side of your fabric. These pieces of fabric will be your ties for your cowl. *See diagram above.

STEP TWO - SEWING YOUR COWL

Next fold your fabric in half width wise, right sides facing each other (bring your left side to meet your right side edge). Sew along this side edge with a 1/2" seam allowance. *See diagram above.

Next we are going to sew your unsewn ends together to form a cowl. These will now become the sides of your cowl. So lay your cowl out in front of you, with your center seam (the seam you just sewed) in the middle running left to right with right sides facing you. Your unsewn edges will now be on the left and right. *See diagram above.

Bring your unsewn ends together matching up the center seams on both of them together. Place a pin here. These will be RS facing each other. Now continue pinning your unsewn ends together. This will begin to form a circle. Don't worry about the rest of your cowl, just keep it out of the way for now. This process will help to keep the cowl 3 dimensional and not flat. Now stitch along where you pinned with a 1/2" seam allowance starting from where your center seams matched up, all along these unsewn edges until you can't sew anymore. This will form a circle when you are done. You will have an opening a few inches wide here that we will close up in a few steps. *See diagram above.

Now this sounds harder than it is. It's actually quite an easy step but I know a lot of people get stumped at this step. So for those of you who are visual here's a great video by the crafty gemini that you can watch to see how to sew this portion of the cowl. If you go to about 4minutes in you will see the process that I have just explained.

STEP THREE - ADDING YOUR TIES

Now keep your cowl right side out. Sew along the left side of your side seam (the one you just sewed) with a 1" seam allowance taking care not to sew the other part of your cowl. This will create half of the channel needed for your ties. Repeat for the other side of the original seam. Then top stitch on top of the seam line of your side seam while also carefully folding under a 1/2" seam allowance for your opening that you had left open shut when you get to it. This will create 2 channels. *See diagram above.

Now find the center of the other side of your cowl. Sew a line down the center. Next sew two lines spaced 1" apart on either side of the line you just stitched. You will now have 4 channels in total - 2 running down each side of your cowl. 2 on your left side and 2 on your right side.

Using your seam ripper or scissors gently and carefully cut open the ends of each of your channels ONLY.

Attach a long safety pin to one end of your fabric ties (ribbon or elastic). Starting with one end of the channel feed it up and through to the other end, then feed back in starting at the top of the channel beside the one you just came out of. Feed it down that channel and out the other end.

I kept my 2 strips really long until after feeding them through my channels. Once feeding them through you only need the strips to be as long as your cowl is fully opened (not ruched). Trim them and stitch the ends of the strips together. Repeat this for your other set of channels. Trim your seam allowances nicely and pull the ties so the sewing seam is hidden inside the channel. Now ruche to your hearts content! *See diagram above.

STEP FOUR - WEARING YOUR COWL

The options are so fun here! Wear your infinity cowl long and single looped with no ruching, or pull the ruching for a different look entirely! Or switch it up and double wrap your cowl with the ruching or no ruching as well! Cate's Cowl is soft, cozy and like your best friend - there for you every day!!! So whatcha waiting for? Go make one....heck make 3! You'll wear them...I promise!

my knit fabric was purchased from girl charlee. if you're looking for awesome knit fabrics head on over and use code "LUVMOMMY" to get 10% OFF your order! coupon is valid until end of oct!

happy sewing! i hope you enjoy the tutorial! make sure to upload pics of your projects in our flickr group so i can see your lovely cowls! xoxox

SEWING || TUMBLE TEES PATTERN TOUR!

 it's time for the....tumble...tumble....tumble.....TUMBLE TEE PATTERN TOUR!

we're so excited today to be part of the tumble tee pattern tour for the lovely rachael of imagine gnats new pattern! i heart the tumble tee. seriously gals...this top/dress is sooooo fast to whip up and the kiddos just adore it! it's comfy, easy to make, versatile and i get to sew with knits! wahoo!! it's been too long since i got busy sewing with some new knits and it's sure been fun to get bit by the knits bug again.

the tumble tee pattern is easy to follow with clear instructions, pattern pieces, tips and techniques for sewing knits and ways to add your own flair to the tumble tee. we opted for the tee version to try it out because my oldest has a sensitivity to a lot of clothes. i was a tad worried she may not like too many seams so i opted to go with the easiest one so if it bugged her i could whip up a different version or one for the wee one instead.

i made mine with a finished neckline but unfinished armholes and hem. we looooove it like that. it's casual, yet still finished. it fits her great and she wore it the whole day as soon as i was done sewing it! in fact - true to her style i got it off the machine and she preceded to wear it and stain it! good thing this momma got pics before she played hard in it..lol.

oh the joys of motherhood...stains and all.

the knits i used for my tumble tee are both from our sponsor girl charlee. i bought them on a whim when choosing my knits for this project. i had other prints in mind but then spotted the floral print and swooned. i'm feeling it and so are my girls. and of course i had to throw some coral in there too! fun right!

if you want to  treat yourself to some new knits make sure to pop on over to girl charlee and use coupon code "LUVMOMMY" for 10% off your oder! 

the coupon expires at the end of october so it's just in time for some serious back to school sewing. i know i'm doing some big time planning on what i'm going to be making for my girls this fall. school is just around the corner.

i think this is a great beginner project for those looking to jump into sewing with knits and also a GREAT basic for any child's wardrobe. it's fun and fast - a win/win in my book!

>> PATTERN <<
- tumble tees pattern by rachel of imagine gnats

>> FABRIC <<
 - coral orange solid cotton jersey knit (sold out) and peach/minty floral cotton jersey blend both from girlcharlee.com

>> NOTES <<
- i sewed up the size 5 for my girlie.
- we did a finished neckline but an unfinished armhole and hem.
- we opted for the split front and a solid back.
- no modifications made.

you can buy a copy of the tumble tee pattern here and follow along with the rest of the tumble tee pattern below! yay! we can't wait to make more!

8.5 Sew Sweetness & The Crafty Kitty
8.6 One Girl Circus & luvinthemommyhood
8.7 Sew Delicious & Living with Punks
8.8 girl like the sea & Suburbia Soup
8.9 Buzzmills & Miss Matatabi
8.12 Alida Makes & Max California
8.13 Crafterhours & Kitschy Coo
8.14 La Inglesita & sew chibi
8.15 EmmylouBeeDoo & LBG Studio
8.16 Petit a Petit and Family & girl. Inspired

CRUSHES || SEWING WITH KNITS & A GIRL CHARLEE DISCOUNT!

this month i've been bit by the knits bug. nope, not knitting with yarn (though i love that too) but sewing with knits. i'm crushing big time.

i went through a phase a while ago where i got addicted to knits and now it's baaaack - with a vengeance. i blame it all on our newest sponsor girl charlee. beware my friends, beware. the knits over there will blow your mind. i went there to browse (which i've done before) but this time i went a bit cray cray and ordered more than i normally do for fabric (i'm in canada so things cost a lot to get here). i could not resist the selection and the price - even shipping was reasonable! all the knits you see in this post are from girl charlee.

 

oh the plans i have for these knits.

some of the knits shown above & below will be part of the tumble tee pattern tour coming up next week, the bateau top pattern tour in sept and see that gorgeous black and white above (that one is my fave)? that's an upcoming free tutorial!!! weeeee! i'm hoping to have that to you next week as well. i've also got plans to make a lady skater dress for moi as well. and the rest....well you'll just have to wait and see.

now, since i had soooo much fun ordering and getting my new knits i couldn't just keep it all to myself. i thought you all might have been bit by the same bug as me recently. so girl charlee has been awesome enough to offer all you lovely readers....

 10% off your order! use the code LUVMOMMY to get your discount! coupon is valid FOR 3 MONTHS!

have fun shopping! hehehe....don't say i didn't warn you!
 

you can find all lovely things girl charlee below:

website  ||  blog  ||  facebook  ||  twitter  ||  pinterest

happy fabric shopping!what's your fave knit of the moment? what do you have on your "to make" list using knits? let's chat fabric m'dears! coffee's on :)

SEWING || FIVE AND TEN DESIGNS - VOLUME ONE!

 

you in the mood to do a little sewing? of course you are!

i'm so excited to show off the first collection from five and ten designs! a collaborative project from 5 of my fave sewing pals! they took 1 bodice pattern and turned it into 10 designs and a fab e-book containing all of them! drool worthy projects, lovely images, and full color step by step instructions from jessica (the sewing rabbit), delia (delia creates), stef (girl. inspired.), jessica (craftiness is not optional) and heidi (elegance & elephants)!

the project range is awesome too! so many fun variations and designs to suit everyone! this collection is not to be missed! it's a must have for your sewing collection! check it out!

squeeeeeeeeeee! i mean honestly...if these don't make you want to buy fabric and drop everything to start sewing i don't know what will! 

want to see more? click HERE to check out the look book to see more pics and view the e-book!

Check out more info on the five and ten designs website or click below to purchase it! 

congratulations ladies!!!!! i can't wait to get sewing from it!

what do you guys think? do you love it too? which one would you make first? i can't even begin to choose!

COLOR YOUR SUMMER - EMELIA NECK SCARF TUTORIAL!

I'm so excited about today's tutorial! I've been dying to show it to you!

I'm also thrilled to be a part of the Color Your Summer Series again this year! I adore this series & Kirsten & Delia! I always get so inspired by Color Your Summer and if you're a reader of my blog you know I love color. I was super happy to get YELLOW as my color this year. I decided to go for something bright & bold and put that lovely yellow front and center.

Recently I spotted looks from the Miu Miu Fall/Winter 2013 Fashion Show and fell head over heels for the neck scarfs the gals were all wearing (you can see pics of the show here and here). In shades of yellow and black with large bright polka dots on them - I was smitten!  So since my color is yellow I had some fun and drew my own design on some solid yellow fabric and made my own version of a fabric neck scarf. Since I think it's pretty darn awesome and a fun trend I don't mind seeing come back I thought it would be a fun tutorial to do for Color Your Summer!

 I rocked a mean neck scarf in my day ladies, and like hats - I love me a good scarf! Knit or sewn...it doesn't matter...I'll wear it!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE ONE TOO? HERE'S HOW...

EMELIA NECK SCARF SEWING TUTORIAL

// MATERIALS //

- 1/2 Yard Fabric (I used quilting cotton) cut on the bias

- Matching thread
- Pins
- Scissors

- *Optional: Sharpie Fabric Marker

// INSTRUCTIONS //

CUTTING OUT YOUR NECK SCARF

 *FUN OPTION: I chose to draw my pattern design onto my solid yellow fabric using Fabric Sharpies. It's a fun and creative way to add a bit of personality to your accessory! Find them at your local craftstores (I got mine from Walmart.).

Cut 2 pieces of fabric on the bias 40"W x 4"H. Cutting it on the bias will give your neck scarf a nice stretch to it. Here's a great link on how to cut fabric on the bias from the lovely dana of the blog made.

Fold your 40"L piece of fabric in half height wise (so your height is now 2") and then match your short ends up with each other. Cut your ends on a 45 degree angle. Repeat for your other fabric piece making sure all your ends are cut the same. See diagram above.

SEWING YOUR NECK SCARF

Place both of your neck scarf pieces right sides facing each other and pin along your unsewn edges and sew along the entire scarf (including your ends) with a 1/4" seam allowance taking care to leave a 1 1/2" opening in the center long edge of your scarf to turn your scarf right side out. See diagram below.

Trim your seam allowances taking care to clip the corners of your ends & point close to your seam (be careful not to cut into your sewing). Turn the neck scarf right side out and push out your corners so they are nice and crisp. Press neatly turning under your opening.  Pin your opening closed. Hand stitch the opening closed with an invisible stitch.

That's it! You did it! Easy, quick & makes a great gift too!

WEARING YOUR NECK SCARF

With your nice long edge standing crisply around the back of your neck, tie a small knot in front (not too tight) and center on your neck.  You're good to go! For added fun you could put the knot off to the side as well!  Wear this in the summer with a cute strapless top/dress or a white tee/tank, and pair in the winter with your fave new coat! Feminine, fun and so romantic!

Thanks for reading! I hope you'll join in with Color Your Summer and embrace your inner yellow! Go wild with it or just add a dash - no matter what just make sure to enjoy it and spoil yourself with a new accessory for the summer & winter!

A big thank you again to Delia for having me over on her lovely blog. Since I first started reading Delia eons ago I've been smitten. She's sweet, talented and such an inspiring mom. Thanks for having me luv & for being such a wonderful friend..xoxox!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE ONE TOO? 

head on over to delia creates to ready more color your summer fun!

what do you think? do you have a thing for all things scarves? would you rock a neck scarf? what a fun gift this would make too! what fabric would you use to make yours? let's chat ladies! coffee's on!

GIVEAWAY || SEW SWEETNESS BAG PATTERNS!

AEROPLANE BAG PATTERN BY SEW SWEETNESS

every woman deserves a great bag!

and thankfully we have an awesome giveaway today from our sponsor sew sweetness!!! sara is the sweet and lovely blogger behind sew sweetness and her fabulous pattern shop of the same name. need a new bag for your next trip? a new camera bag? wallet? clutch? you name it - sara's got a pattern for it!

sew sweetness patterns feature full color photos & detailed step by step instructions! i am dying to whip up an aeroplane bag for myself this year and also her paparazzi camera bag pattern! i need them both! but then....

ahhhhh...who am i kidding? i can't just pick one bag - i need them all!

but guess what? the winner won't have to! keep reading to find out the FABULOUS prize sara has up for grabs today! get those sewing machines & your latest fabric crushes ready! here's some pics of just a few of the fantastic bag patterns sew sweetness has to offer!

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 ||THE PRIZE ||
 - 3 winners will get 6 PATTERNS EACH!!! WOW! what a great prize!!! thank so much sara!

 || HOW TO ENTER ||
- simply leave a comment below letting me know what your favorite sew sweetness bag pattern you'd make first!
- *bonus entry: like sew sweetness and/or luvinthemommyhood on facebook & then leave us another comment letting us know you did that too.

|| THE RULES ||
- you must leave a valid email address with your comment or you will be disqualified.
- giveaway is open until 07/21/2013, midnight, pst.

i heart sara (she's just so darn sweet!) and her patterns and hope you all do too! head on over to her shop to drool some more! you can find all thins sew sweetness here:

SHOP || BLOG || FACEBOOK || TWITTER || PINTEREST || INSTAGRAM

CALL FOR TESTERS || THE SALLY DRESS

the sally dress sewing pattern is almost here! we've been busy behind the scenes getting the pattern ready and i'm almost done! a few more days and i'll be needing some awesome testers (meaning you of course) to sew some up. and in case you missed it here's the post from vintage may that shows more pics and info about the sally dress.

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THE SALLY DRESS DETAILS
the sally dress is sized for 2t - 8! yep, you asked and i answered! the dress features large wide pockets and a fun square neckline with no closures. it's a slip on and slip off kinda dress. the kidlets love that it's so easy to get on and off. the dress has options to make it sleeveless or to go for short sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves - all featuring a fully lined & seamless bodice! i would put the level of sewing for this dress at intermediate or a very intermediate beginner.

TIMELINE FOR TESTING
the timeline for the dress is 5 days after the pattern goes out for testing. i'm aiming for the pattern to go out at the end of the week or early next week depending on my crazy children and how well they let this momma work. the sally dress (aside from cutting and prep) is approximately 2+hours of sewing (less if you do no sleeves).

WHAT AM I LOOKING FOR IN A TESTER?
i'm looking for people who have read a sewing pattern before & know how to read/follow them (this is very important). have some sewing experience (preferably at a beginner intermediate and up level) & somewhere online (ex. blog, flickr etc) that i can see some of your sewing skills, have children available in the size they are sewing to photograph the garment in. hopefully you have awesome photography skills so i can see how the dress fits (& show off your pics later in a post). and finally you are able to sew the dress in the short timeline given and are able to give positive constructive criticism of the pattern - what can i say, i have a soft heart..lol.

so what do you say? would you like to join in and be a tester for the sally dress? yay! fill out the application below with all your info. please note we will only be contacting the people who have been chosen to test. if you are chosen you will receive a free copy of the sally dress pattern and possible feature of your dress in an upcoming post on the test dresses.

THANK YOU - THE TESTERS ARE NOW FULL

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a big thank you to everyone for being so supportive about the sally dress! you guys mean so much to me and your enthusiasm is contagious - so thank you!!! i can't wait to be able to share it with all of you.

what fabrics would you make the sally dress in? i'm working on a few with some fabric i've been hoarding way toooooo long in my stash! you can see a sneak peek of one in my instagram feed.

SEWING || A LITTLE FLORAL ANYONE?

i recently ordered some fabric that was on for a steal and a half! like $2/yd kind of steal! can we say wearable muslin anyone? yesssss. that's right. i'm getting ready to start my selfish sewing binge soon (looking for patterns to try? check out our independent pattern designer roundup)!  in the meantime though i keep looking at the fabrics i have hoarded for selfish sewing and then looking at my patterns and i just can't decide which ones to go with what.

fabrics above from fabric.com

while looking at my pile of fabric i also realized that i must be on a floral binge.  these prints remind me fondly of my early 90's years. i love that floral long dresses and short dresses are around again. and $2/yd! you can't go wrong people! even with hefty shipping charges to canada - ouch! ouch! ouch! i also still have the stunningly soft double gauze and some liberty cotton (shown below) that i've been hoarding as well. it's going to be so hard to cut into that gauze - it really is soooo soft and truly a treat for me to have. i got them both on sale for a great price a month or so ago.

1. muddy works currant in citron from kokka 2. cranston in colorway d from liberty from pink castle fabrics

here's the patterns i currently have and am wanting to make this year (this is of course if i find a way to add 10 more hours to my day).
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the entire breakwater collection by megan nielsen 

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another wiksten tank & another tova by wiksten

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another laurel & hawthorn by colette patterns

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> roxanne & satsuki by victory patterns

any suggestions? are you sewing any of the patterns above? what fabrics are you using? any online shops you recommend for "apparel fabrics"? i'm on the hunt for some lovely shirting for the hawthorn dress. it's the only one i don't have any fabric for yet.

fill me in ladies! i want to know what you're making! wishing you all a lovely, handmade, coffee & tea, friends and family filled kinda weekend. i'm taking my oldest to her first concert! we're going to see taylor swift! i'm so excited! but more on that next week <3

GIVEAWAY || FAT QUARTER SHOP - V & CO'S SIMPLY STYLE

image src v and co.

who's in the mood to win some fabric today? i know i would be..if i could win that is..lol.  it's summer and i figured what better fabric to win for this bright and colorful season than the lovely vanessa of v and co's new line - simply style! our awesome sponsor fat quarter shop is kindly sponsoring our giveaway today!!

i am swooning over the colors and the patterns in vanessa's new line.  just like simply color there is a wide array of patterns perfect for quilting, clothing, accessories and more!  the fat quarter shop is carrying them all!  they've got fat quarter bundles, honeycomb packs, fat eighth bundles, charm packs, mini charm packs and more!

just look at some of the fun new patterns (pictured below) that accompany simply style that you could make! i'm loving the quilt patterns! i just may have to whip one of those bad boys up! so much for sleep :p you can find all the new patterns v and co. released for simply style at fat quarter shop as well.

ARE YOU READY TO FIND OUT WHAT YOU CAN WIN?

>>> THE PRIZE <<<
- one lucky winner will receive a "honeycomb bundle of simply style by v and co. for moda"!!! yahoo!

>>> HOW TO ENTER <<<
- simply leave me a comment below letting me know what you would make with your honeycomb bundle! easy peasy!
- *bonus entry: follow fat quarter shop on facebook or pinterest and then come back & leave me a comment letting me know you did that too.

>>> THE RULES <<<
- you must leave a valid email address in your comment or you will be disqualified.
- giveaway ends 06/30/2013 at midnight PST.

image src v and co.

good luck and happy sewing everyone!  and just in case you can't wait to get sewing you can find all things simply style over here at the fat quarter shop! a big thank you to fat quarter shop for our fun giveaway today!

shop  ||  blog  ||  facebook  ||  twitter  ||  pinterest

SEWING || INDEPENDENT PATTERN DESIGNERS ROUNDUP

i'm on a huge selfish sewing kick this year and even though i've been busy in the background working on a big project i've also been getting ready for a big bout of selfish sewing in the next few months.  i've been slowly stocking up on my favorite patterns to sew myself some serious new duds. i know a lot of you have been asking me which shops/designers are my favorites and which patterns i purchased so i decided to answer those questions here in an "independent pattern designers roundup"! you know i love me a roundup..lol.

here's listing of my go to designers who inspire me to sew for myself and to become a better seamstress. selfish sewing is ALWAYS a good thing <3

GET READY TO BE INSPIRED!

MEGAN NIELSEN PATTERNS  //  COLETTE PATTERNS  //  VICTORY PATTERNS

 DEER AND DOE  //  WIKSTEN  //  GRAINLINE STUDIO

BY HAND LONDON  //  PATTERN RUNWAY  //  SALME

SEWAHOLIC  //  SEW LIBERATED  //  ANNA MARIA HORNER

LISETTE PATTERNS  //  JAMIE CHRISTINA  //  SIS BOOM

 MADE BY RAE  //  SEAMINGLY SMITTEN  //  MAKE IT PERFECT

>> READERS FAVES <<

- SERENDIPITY STUDIO

- APRIL RHODES 

- SCIENTIFIC SEAMSTRESS

- GO TO PATTERNS

- KITSCHY COO  
- BLANK SLATE PATTERNS

i've been stocking up on fabrics, sale fabrics, fabric to make wearable muslins and fabric to indulge in.  i've got my adjustable dress form ready, and poppy the pfaff is waiting ever so patiently for me to get tracing, cutting & sewing! i can't wait!  looking at the pics above - how could you not want to sew something for yourself?  the best part is a majority of designers offer great beginner patterns so you can jump right in! they also host sew alongs and have wonderful technique tutorials and tips on their own blogs.  there's no excuse to not try.

trust me when i say it is a feeling like no other to go out in a handmade out fit and have someone ask where you got your dress and you replying "i made it". it's out of this work fabulous! 

so what do you say? selfish sewing anyone? 

what are you making this week?  tag your pics on instagram, twitter and facebook with hashtag #whatcha so we can all see!  comment below with your pics and projects/blog posts so we can check out your lovelies. happy sewing!

SEWING || PATRICIA COWL & SASCHA THE DRESS FORM

i recently got my hands on some of the fabulous bari j's new line "bijoux" from art gallery fabrics. this fabric line is gorgeous and so fun! i love the bohemian vibe and the colors are just drool worthy!  you will definitely not get bored with this fabric line. i honestly couldn't choose my fave print.

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but i was able to decide what to make with it. i knew as soon as i saw bijoux that it had to be a patricia cowl (you can find my tutorial to make the patricia cowl here. it's fast, fun & a great sew!). it just screamed cowl to me and it also screamed a pressie for a certain friend of mine.  she's been waiting a long time for this so i'm so glad to finally get it blogged and hopefully mailed out to her next week. 

hannah - merry christmas...lol. hugs! lol.  hope you love it and sorry it took me 5 months too long!

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isn't it pretty? i just want to throw it on with a white tank, some cute jeans, a bangle and my flip flops. so lovely.  wait...what's that you ask..."who's that sassy grey gal wearing it"?  well...let me tell you.  she's new to our house.  she's funny, a tad shy, curvy, purdy and is my new friend.  her name is sascha singer. she says hi!  nice to meet you.  she's bff's with poppy the pfaff.  lmao. ok...ok...ok...in all seriousness you know how i love naming inanimate objects i adore in my home right? i know it's a tad weird but whatevs...it's fun!  anyhoo, her name is sascha singer but she was born singer 151, in the US, at Joanns.com.  she came to us a few weeks ago and we have loved her ever since.

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i have been on the hunt for an adjustable dress form for years. years. could never afford the one i wanted so started looking second hand but it's damn hard to find an adjustable m/l size dress form in good condition. my 41" bust needed to be represented...lol.  so does my baby gut. and my hips. and my butt...lol.  so when i spotted a big sale on at joanns.com for a huge steal off the dress forms i jumped at the chance. i had been wanting a grey one but could never find a grey singer so i was pretty excited to be able to order this one and ship on over to canada.  to all you fellow canadians the shipping was not bad at all and the duty etc was $10. can't go wrong for that!!!! i'm happy with the dress form for the price i paid which was under $100 and i can't wait to use it for my first garment for myself.

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PATTERN

- Patricia Cowl by me

FABRIC

- Bijoux by Bari J for Art Gallery Fabrics

- Prints used:

into the wild cedar, bohemian charms cedar, embroidery's fortune rose, bohemian charms honey, dream catcher fuchsia, mystic traveler magenta.

DRESS FORM

- purchased at www.joanns.com

- model singer 151

- adjustable dress form in size M/L

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do you have a dress form?  which brand is your favorite? i had a hard time deciding between dritz, singer and all the others but figured before i invest a lot more money into a dress form i would try this brand out and see how much i use it, pros/cons and if it's worth investing in one three times as expensive later on down the road.  i'd love to hear what dress form you use and if you're so inclined what her name is...lol. have a wonderful weekend everyone!

p.s. don't forget to enter the ella's cottage fabric giveaway for a 16 fat quarter bundle of "happy go lucky" from bonnie and camille. you can enter here.

VINTAGE MAY || THE SALLY DRESS

the vintage vibe is in the air! can you feel it? that's right everyone - it's vintage may! i was so excited to be asked to join in for this fun series hosted by my pals kristin of the awesome blog - skirt as top and the equally as amazing jess of craftiness is not optional. i knew as soon as i got invited i could not pass this one up.  a dress had to be made.  a vintage inspired one at that.  this is right up my alley! luckily i had recently gotten just the right fabric.  bright, a modern yet still vintage vibe and an oh so cheerful color for my little one. 

vintage may

the print i decided to use definitely reminded me of my inspiration - sally draper of the tv show mad men. i looove mad men and i love the clothing from the show.  i thought it would be fun to use sally as my jumping off point.  can't you just see her in a scene wearing this cute frock? the fabric i used is floradots in saffron by erin mcmorris for free spirit.  i also have some in a blue/grey tone that i hope to use to sew my oldest a sally dress as well with some fun add ons. the bodice and pockets were then lined with hidden treasure gold from indie by pat bravo for art gallery fabrics. such a great print too!

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when doing my original sketches i knew i wanted big pockets. but not just any pockets - pockets that show. easy ones to throw hidden treasures in - my little ponies, dolls, shells, rocks...you name it - my girls will carry it.  they are constantly storing goodies in their pockets so this time instead of me finding it hidden in the wash i figured i wouldn't miss them in these big ol' pockets. plus, well, pockets just plain rock!

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i also knew when designing this dress that simplicity was my goal.  i wanted no closures - thus the square neckline.  and yes, that's right - there is no zipper or buttons.  you just pull it on. love it!  and so does she!  the bodice is fully lined as are the pockets.  the pockets also go right down into the hem for optimum toy storage! i also knew i wanted a higher waistline, gathered skirt and a shorter length than normal.  it's hard to tell from these pics but she could easily wear this as a tunic.  i might have even gone a bit shorter if she had stood still longer for me to pin more accurately.  darn 3 year olds...lol...don't they want mommy to make them stand on a stool wearing a piece of fabric with pins for 10 minutes while i measure over and over again? no way.  she's a trooper though.  she's getting there.

---

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the best part of the whole process - that smile! she loves it and that sure does my heart good.  such a doll this one.  she just melts my heart.

what do you guys think of this dress?  i've got so many fun variations of the sally dress that i'd like to try. in fact i'm leaning to making this one a pattern available. any interest?  would you like to see a pattern for the sally dress?  sleeves? long or short?  i'd love to hear your thoughts!  it's a fun dress to make and you guys know my style - if it's fun/rewarding to make, allows you to customize and shows off my fave fabric crush it's a winner in my book.

a huge thank you to kristin and jess for having me along as part of vintage may.  please be sure to check out all the other bloggers involved in this fun series. there is a TON of amazing lovelies being made and it's not to be missed.  you can find all the vintage may goodness below:

>> vintage may oncraftiness is not optional <<

>> vintage may onskirt as top <<

|| FABRICS USED ||

-  floradots in saffron by erin mcmorris for free spirit.

- bodice and pocket are lined withhidden treasures goldfrom indie by pat bravo for art gallery fabrics.

|| PATTERN USED ||

|| VINTAGE MAY INSPIRATION ||

-sally draper of the tv showmad men.

*EDITED TO ADD - THE SALLY DRESS PATTERN IS NOW FOR SALE! YOU CAN FIND THE SALLY DRESS PATTERN HERE AND READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE! THANK YOU!*

FABRIC GIVEAWAY || ELLA'S COTTAGE

happy go lucky fabric fat quarter bundle - img src: ella's cottage

yum, yum, yum, yum! who's in the mood for some fabric fun? i am, i am!!! yahoo!  one of our newest sponsors - ella's cottage is offering up a lovely fabric giveaway today!  i love me a good fabric giveaway!

happy go lucky fat quarter fabric bundle - img src: ella's cottage

i have been a long time reader of the blog "simplicity" of camille roskelly and love her fabrics and quilt patterns.  i was excited when i saw the prize leigh anne of ella's cottage was giving away! this is a sweet one!  the happy go lucky line is the newest range of fabrics from bonnie and camille for moda.  it's bright, happy and oh so lovely!  perfect for that new quilt you've been dying to whip up! need some inspiration? you can find some of the patterns that camille has designed for this line of fabrics HERE. 

in the mood to win some?  click to find out how! 

ella's cottage is your newest fave etsy shop filled with your current fabric crushes.  the owner leigh anne is not just giving away this awesome prize she is also offering everyone 15% OFF all orders with coupon code "luvinthemommyhood"!  and that's not all!!!  you can also get free shipping on all orders over $50 within canada/us with coupon code "shipfree50"!!!  thank you leigh anne!!!
 *(customers further abroad are free to use the 15% off code but must contact ella's cottage directly for shipping costs). 
**(both the 15% off and free shipping coupons cannot be combined in one order).

|| THE PRIZE ||
- one lucky winner will win 16 fat quarters from the lovely line "happy go lucky" by bonnie & camille for moda from ella's cottage

|| HOW TO ENTER ||
- simply leave me a comment letting me know what you would make if you won.
- *bonus entry: like ella's cottage and/or luvinthemommyhood on facebook and then come back and tell us you did that as well in a seperate comment.

|| THE RULES ||
- you must have a valid email address in your comment or you will be disqualified.
- this giveaway is open to canadian & US residents ONLY.
- giveaway is open until 05/26/2013, midnight, PST.

good luck to you all and a big thank you to ella's cottage!  you can find more about ella's cottage below:

shop  ||  facebook

GIVEAWAY & BOOK REVIEW || SEW PRETTY T-SHIRT DRESSES

sew pretty t-shirt dresses by sweet seams

are you getting ready to through your closets now that the nicer weather is starting? does anyone else get bit by that bug right before summer starts? i always feel the need to purge/clean and re-organize all the clothes in our house before a new season rolls in.  so when i got a chance to review the book "sew pretty t-shirt dresses: more than 25 easy, pattern-free designs for little girls" i was so in.  perfect thing to do with the hubs old tshirts, or ones that have gotten too short or stained for the girls and so on.  it's been a while since i repurposed anything and this book got my wheels turning again.

sew pretty t-shirt dresses has a pattern for every taste level.  from simple and fun to way girly girl.  the book is filled with bright, fun and colorful photos, clear instructions and a section i think we would all appreciate entitled "t-shirt dresses 101" with tips, techniques and more on sewing t-shirt dresses.  the ladies behind sweet seams did a great job putting together 28 patterns!!!  wowsa!

i really enjoyed the layout and found the book concise and easy to follow.  the book is suitable for every sewing level and features projects that would be easily customizable for a more advanced sewer. i think a beginner could jump in using their how to sections at the front of the book and have some fun with these patterns. all the patterns look fast and all begin with 1 t-shirt.  i think it's a great way to create a unique garment for that special girl in your life!

would you like to win one?  find out how to enter below!

Images from Sew Pretty T-Shirt Dresses by Sweet Seams Studio, published by Sixth&Spring Books. Photography by Dan Howell and dress design and instructions copyright © 2013 by Sixth&Spring Books/Soho Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

 ||  THE PRIZE ||

- one lucky winner will win a copy of "sew pretty t-shirt dresses"! get your t-shirts and sewing machines ready!

|| HOW TO ENTER ||

- simply leave me a comment letting me know what your favorite creative thing to do with old tshirts is.  that's it! yay for easy!

|| THE RULES ||

- you must leave a valid email address in your comment or you will be disqualified.  
- giveaway is open until 05/19/13, midnight, PST.

good luck and happy sewing!  thank you to sixth & spring books for the fun giveaway!

MAY 5TH
Nouveau Stitch  |  Just Pure Lovely  |  The Crafty Princess Diaries
MAY 6TH
Crafting A Green World  |  Stitched by Crystal
MAY 7TH
Prudent Baby | House of 34
MAY 8TH
Smashed Peas and Carrots  |  Simply Modern Mom
MAY 9TH
Marsha’s Spot  |  Sew Spoiled
MAY 10TH
Dollar Store Crafts  |  Only From Scratch
MAY 11TH
Wild Olive  |  Positively Splendid
MAY 12TH
On the Laundry Line  |  Elegance and Elephants
MAY 13TH
luvinthemommyhood  |  My Little Gems

SEWING || OPEN WIDE ZIPPERED POUCH

open wide zippered pouch tutorial from noodlehead ||  fabric from bari j's splendor 1920

it was recently my mom's 60th bday this week.  among the other gifts we gave her i made her a special pouch to put her knitting and/or hand quilting projects in for working on the go.  my folks love to camp and i thought this would come in handy for her fireside projects.  my mom is a pure die hard and seriously hand quilts her quilts from start to finish. not even her binding is sewn with the machine. it blows my mind every time i see one of her finished quilts.

we both started learning to quilt at the same time - i with the machine and her with her hands :)  i have now happily learned to enjoy sewing my binding on by hand (one part of it anyways) and i'm still working away trying to get her to try her hand at doing a bit on the machine.  in the meantime though i thought she could keep all her wee pieces in this cute pouch to pull out when she wants to work on them.

my mom is also my favorite secret weapon. she's got an eye like a hawk. she lovingly, painstakingly and very carefully edits and proofs all of my tutorials and patterns. she never misses a thing. i love that i always have her and my dad to send my pdf's to for a thorough and intense proofing.  it's so fun to have them be a part of my wee business.  

when i had decided to make my mom a new pouch i knew i wanted to try a new style of zippered pouch instead of the basic rectangle one that i usually make. i remembered my friend anna from noodlehead's free "open wide zippered pouch" tutorial.  this pouch is soooo fun to make!  with 3 sizes available i'm dying to make myself a trio of pouches!  i have so many projects on the go i'm still running out of pouches/bags/totes...lol. which in turn means i create more pouches, which means more projects being made. crazytown i tell ya. somebody stop me!

my mom loves teals and blues. any shade and she'll take it - anywhere.  so when it came time to choose my fabric i went straight to bari j's line - splendor 1920 for art gallery fabrics i knew my mom would swoon over it just like i did.  i chose "english garden serene" as the outer print and then did the lining in one of my fave's "tea delight jam". if you're a fan of bari's work check out her newest line - bijoux. i have another pressie i just made for someone out of it and the line is just gorgeous!

i hope my mom enjoys her pouch :)  i wouldn't sew a zipper for just anyone..wink wink.  to my mom: you are amazing.  i love you very much and could never make you enough goodies to show you how much i appreciate everything you have done for me and my family and how much you mean to me.

>>> PATTERN <<<
- open wide zippered pouch from noodlehead

>>> FABRIC <<<
- english garden serene & tea delights jam from splendor 1920 from bari j for art gallery fabrics.

>>> NOTES <<<
- made no mods to this pattern. loved it!

are you making your mom a handmade gift this year?  are you addicted to zippered pouches as well?  remember you can get 15% off all purchases in our brand new veryshannon pattern store, ravelry shop and etsy shop till 05/13/13 using coupon code "mothersday". happy making!

CRUSHES || YARN & FABRIC LOVE

celadon & earl grey madelinetosh tosh sock

it's crushes time!  i finally got a chance to take some pics of my newest yarn and fabric lovelies!   mmmmmm.....so yummy all of them! i can't even decide which ones i love the most!  i indulged big time recently on my first 2 skeins ever of madelinetosh tosh sock! i cannot wait to knit with these skeins.  i knew when my lys - the beehive wool shop, got their big shipment of madtosh in that i absolutely had to get a skein of earl grey. i needed it. i didnt' even think twice.  the extra skein of celadon was a welcome addition and because it's so hard to get madtosh where i love in such a wide array of colors i spoiled myself and got 2 and it was worth it.  so gorg!  i didn't even realized how nicely they match with each other until i got outside and into my car.  a happy coincidence since now i think i may knit them in the same project. not sure what yet but my wheels are happily spinning.

one of my other favorite yarn companies - quince and co, recently released a new yarn!  owl is here!  and it doesn't disappoint!  a gorgeous blend of american wool and american alpaca these are a more than welcome addition to my stash.  a group of us where i live all went in on a big order to scoop up some of there lovely colorways. i can't wait to wind these up and get swatching!!!

quince and co owl in colorways - cilantro, sokoke, and cerulean

as for fabric i hit up a big pink castle fabrics sale a while back and got some beautiful new fabrics for a steal of a price!!!!  i had been waiting to try the liberty lifestyle prints for some time and so i didn't hesitate when i spotted the gorgeous mix of blues and corals in cranston. love it!  and then when i spotted the double gauze from kokka on the right i just about fainted! i got such a good deal i thought my eyes were seeing things wrong!  needless to say i got enough of both the liberty and kokka prints to make new dresses for myself.

1 & 2. floradots in gray & saffron by erin mcmorris for free spirit & 3. liberty cranston 4. free spirit designer solid in peach blush 5. commas in slate & chalk from zen chic for moda 6. muddy works currant in citron double gauze by tomotake for kokka

i haven't decided on which pattern yet but will definitely be posting something soon.  i've narrowed it down to a few and am hoping to finalize my wandering eye sooner than later..lol. i bought myself an invisible zipper foot finally (no more cowboy style zipper installations for me) so i'm all ready for another laurel dress or blouse maybe or any other garment with an invisible zipper. bring it on zippers!

what are you crushing on this week?  any new yarns or fabric prints you've scooped on or indulged in?  what are you hoping or saving for?  i've got a few other fabric/yarn lovelies to show you next week as well as a few new project - i can't wait! so spill the beans...did you treat yourself for mothers day too?

FREE TUTORIAL || REVERSIBLE SOCK KNITTING PROJECT BAG

i love project bags. i love them almost as much as i love the stuff  i'm knitting and sewing in them.  i have tried making a few different versions of project bags now for my many wip's but i keep coming back over and over to this one style of bag.  it's my fave!  so after lots of requests since i sold some of these last summer at a fiber festival i finally got around to doing the tutorial for this reversible sock knitting project bag! yep - that's right, it's reversible!! weee!!!! more chances to use fun fabric! love it! and there is no hand sewing! love that even more!!!  it's easy, fast, fun and a great gift project to make.  you could easily whip a few of these up in one evening.

isn't it cute! i kinda want to hug them they are so cute. i think i have about 4 of them now in different fabrics.  you can surprisingly fit quite a lot into this small size too.  i have my sweater project in one at the moment and it's still fitting.  but if you would like a larger size (equally as cute, i have made those too) or even a jumbo (heck you could go smaller too), i give you instructions on how to do that below as well.

these little bags stand up great too. the square bottom is awesome for that. just remember if you are using a lightweight fabric to use interfacing on it to keep the stability of the bag or you'll get one that is a bit more floppy. now go recycle those ugly plastic bags, save your cloth tote for something else and give your knitting project a sassy new bag in your newest fabric crush of the moment! i promise it will bring a smile to your face and your knitty pals will all want one too <3

are you ready to get sewing?  this is a great beginner project but it's also a good base for an advanced sewer to go wild with piecing and sizing to create a custom bag suited to their tastes. 

>>REVERSIBLE SOCK KNITTING BAG TUTORIAL<<

Copyright 2013 www.luvinthemommyhood.com  All rights reserved.  This tutorial is for personal use only unless prior permission has been given.  If you are interested in handmaking & selling this item on a small scale basis please email me at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca for inquiries.

||  FINISHED MEASUREMENTS  ||

Bottom is approximately 5.5"W and height is approximately 7.5"H.

Want a different size?  You can easily adjust the sizes of this bag.  Simply choose a different overall square size for the bag (for ex. 16" x 16") and then to calculate the size of the small square corners you cut out you need to find 1/4 of the width of the fabric to be able to create a square bottom for your bag.

You can also customize the size of the upper & lower pieces as well if you are piecing your fabrics. Just remember that no matter what you piece together your overall height (after piecing/sewing your fabrics together) is 12" and your width is 12".  You could easily do a patchwork one, add more strips, or do vertical strips instead. It's totally up to you! Just have fun with it!
  

|| MATERIALS ||

To make a knitting bag all in one print you will need:
- 4 pieces of fabric 12"W x 12"H (2 for your outer and 2 for your lining).
If you would like to make your bag with 2 fabric selections for your outer and lining like the one shown in this tutorial you will need the following:
- 4 pieces @ 12"W x 7.25"H (this will be the lower section of your bag)
- 4 pieces @ 12"W x 5.25"H (this will be the upper section of your bag)

You will also need:
- 2 pieces @ 12"W x 12"H of light-medium weight fusible interfacing. I used PELLON  931TD fusible midweight white interfacing. If you are using a mid-heavy weight fabric you may make it without it.
- ruler
- scissors and/or rotary cutter and mat
- coordinating thread
- removable fabric marker
- 1 yard ribbon, fabric or cording cut to desired length

|| INSTRUCTIONS ||

 STEP ONE: PREPPING YOUR PIECES

Seam allowance is 1/4" unless otherwise noted.

 *Note: I am going to show you instructions on how to assemble a sock knitting bag that is pieced using 2 different fabric selections. If you would like to just use one fabric choice for your outer and lining please skip ahead to after the first paragraph.

Place 1 of your outer lower pieces right side facing 1 of your outer upper pieces and pin along your long edge.  Sew with a 1/4" seam allowance.  Press towards the darker of your colors.  Topstitch along the RS of your fabric along your seam. This makes a nice neat finish.  Repeat this step for the other 2 pieces of your outer bag and then repeat for all the pieces of your lining as well.  You should now have 4 - 12" x 12" squares ready to be sewn.

Iron on your interfacing to the 2 pieces of your lining bag.

Next you will mark and cut out a 3" square from the bottom 2 corners of all 4 pieces of your fabric.  Make sure these are nice and accurate.  Feel free to cut out a 3" paper square if you'd like a template.

STEP TWO: ASSEMBLING YOUR BAG

With your 2 outer pieces right sides facing sew along your bottom seam (this is the fabric between your 2 square cut outs).  Note: If you have pieced your fabrics together take care here to match up your seams for a nice finish.  I like to pin from there first and then up and down. I find I would rather trim a bit from the top or bottom than have a messy seam lineup. 

Next sew along the 2 side seams.  Repeat this step for the other 2 pieces that will be your lining bag.

Press all your seams open. Now we are going to make those fun corners that allow the bag to stand nicely.  You will still have the 3" squares you cut out unsewn.  With your outer bag in your hand hold the corner bottom in your hand and pull apart the square so that the inner top corner of that little square is now lined up with same corner of the other piece of fabric. See photo above. This should create 1 seam you can sew along with a 1/4" seam allowance. Sew along that seam.  Press.  Repeat this step for the other corner of your outer bag and for both corners of your lining bag.  Your bag should now look like the image below.

STEP THREE:  MAKING THE CASING

Turn your outer bag inside out.  Keep your lining bag right side facing out.  Now place your lining bag inside your outer bag so the right sides are facing each other.  See image below.

We are now going to create the channel for the drawstring and also close up the bag.  Mark 1" down from the top edge of your bag.   Sew a line 1" down from this edge around the whole upper circumference of the bags leaving a 2.5-3" opening to pull your bag through. This will also be the opening for your drawstring to pull through.

Pull your bags right side out and nicely tuck the lining bag inside the outer bag.  See image above.  Press all along the upper edge of your bag so it's nice and flat.  Pin your opening closed.  Sew along the top edge circumference all around the bag this time with a 3/4" seam allowance.  This will finish your drawstring channel and close up the bottom of your opening. You now have a nifty pretty opening to pull your cord through without any hand sewing! Yay!!!!  I love this kind of top finish. It's easy, fast and looks great.

STEP FOUR:  ADDING YOUR DRAWSTRING

Attach a safety pin to the end of your drawstring. I like to use a soft off white tie cording (not sure if this is the correct terminology for this) most commonly used on pajama pants. If you do use this kind of tie you need to finish your ends. I simply fold over a 1/2" of the end and then fold again. I then sew down along the folded edge.

Now that you have your tie ready feed the safety pin end through the channel to the other side.  Open the bag up fully and make sure you have at least a 5-6" minimum on each end to be able to tighten the bag and tie a nice big bow :)  And that's it! You're done! Now go get your sock knitting on m'dears! Enjoy!

Copyright 2013 www.luvinthemommyhood.com  All rights reserved.  This tutorial is for personal use only unless prior permission has been given.  If you are interested in handmaking & selling this item on a small scale basis please email me at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca for inquiries. 

As always please share your finished project pics! We LOVE to see your handiwork! Add your pics to the comments below and/or add them to our flickr group!  Thanks for sewing with me!

>>  FABRICS USED  <<

- "scattered sand in warm grey" by lotta jansdotter
- a random turqouise solid i can't remember where i got from :P
- "gallop horse fabric" by katherine codega

Do you like knitting socks?  Are you always on the lookout for a new project bag? I can never have enough! So far this is my favorite one! It's almost as addicting as knitting the project in it!

SEWING || TOVA TUNIC

pattern: tova tunic by wiksten

i know it's kids clothes week and this is definitely not kids clothes, lol, but i finished up my first tova tunic the other week to wear to vogue knitting live and i couldn't help but finally post some shots the hubs took of me in my new fave tunic. you may notice i chopped my hair off but please ignore my bad hair day in these shots. can we say mom frizz? not good. oh well, we all have our days right? as some of you may know one of my new year's resolutions this year was to do more selfish sewing for myself and i have been loving it so far!  i've been wanting to add a few more tunic dresses to my wardrobe so the tova was a natural choice for me.

i have to admit i was very nervous to make this.  my bust size isn't even listed on the pattern (i'm a 41" bust in case anyone cares...lol).  but after looking for ages on flickr and seeing other busy gals make it with no issues and having made the wiksten tank & fitting in the xl i decided to just go for it.  last summer i purchased some crazy sale price lawn fabric to use just for this tunic. it ended up costing me about $5/yd!!! needless to say i was not going to cry my eyes out if it didn't work out.  i sewed this bad boy up on a thursday and wore it to vogue knitting live the very next day.  so comfy! i traveled and hit up the show in this tunic!  i paired it that time with my fave dark grey leggings and knee high boots and got a lot of compliments on my outfit. . 

i really love how the fit of the tova covers all my roly poly bits. you know the ones that 2 babies and a c-section leave behind? yep, those nasty ones.  it flows without looking maternity and i found it flattering for my body type which i was worried it wouldn't be for me and my curves.  during sewing i stitched up the neck opening a bit so i didn't have to worry about cleavage flashing some poor unsuspecting passerby.  i think i stitched about 1 1/2 - 2" up from the bottom of the yoke.  i liked that i don't have to worry about that but also still have a flattering neckline. there are a ton of fun variations on the neckline all over flickr so i felt ok topstitching my flap down a tad.

all in all i am very happy with the tova tunic pattern and will definitely make it again.  i really enjoy how professional and clean the finishes are for wiksten patterns and both the tova and the wiksten tank (click here to see how mine turned out) are staples in my wardrobe. i'm going to splurge and get some softer fabric this time round and make one that isn't slightly see through (like the lawn i used) so i don't have to wear clothing under it in the warmer months.  i recommend this tunic and have been wearing it more times than i will dare to admit here on the blog :P

>> PATTERN <<
 - tova tunic from wiksten

 >> FABRIC <<
- cotton lawn floral multi (code FP-668) from fabrics.com (i can't find it on their site anymore)

 >> NOTES <<
- i made the size xl with no adjustments. i'm a size 41" bust.
- i would use a softer fabric next time. this lawn was great to practice on (use as a wearable muslin) but now that i know how much i like the tova i'm going to splurge on something that isn't as see through and that has a softer hand.
- i stitched closed my neckline opening by about 1 1/2-2" to keep the girls from showing too much.
- in case anyone is wondering the cowl i'm wearing with the tunic is my new pattern "the lansbury cowl". you can find it here if you're so inclined.

 have you made the tova tunic before?  how did you like it?  what tunic have you been wanting to make?  are you joining in and doing some selfish sewing this year too?  i love hearing what you guys are whipping up so join in the conversation :)