Originate and Renovate

Shades Case

2012-02-10T15:19:00.000-08:00

I think a new pair of sunglasses definitely calls for a custom case...

Here's how to make one:

Choose an exterior and interior fabric, as well as a solid black for the lens and a fabric for the frames. You can use fat quarter sized fabrics, or just scraps you have laying around.

I found a cute template for some "hipster glasses" here. I shrunk them down to 75% of their original size when I printed them.

Lay your sunglasses on the exterior fabric and decide what size you'd like your case. Don't forget to add 1/4" to each side for seams. My glasses are quite small so my case only measured 6 3/4" x 3 1/2" to start. Cut two from your exterior fabric and two the same size (minus 1/4" on length) for your interior.

(ex. instead of 6 3/4" in length, you'd cut 6 1/2" in length for the interior fabric only)

Use the image your printed to create an iron-on appliqué using Heat and Bond lite onto one of your exterior units. Press fusible fleece, cut to the same dimensions, to the wrong side of your exterior units.

stitch your exterior units right sides together leaving the top open and using a 1/4" seam allowance. Repeat with your interior units, but leave a 2" opening at the bottom in addition to leaving the top open. Clip the corners to eliminate bulk, careful not to clip into seams. Flip exterior or case right side out and push the corners out with a closed pair of scissors or a turning tool to create nice points.

place exterior case into interior case so right sides of fabric are together, lining up side seams. Handstitch around the top through all layers of fabric and tie off. I like to sew a few times around, to create more stability, because my hand sewing isn't the smallest.

Pull the exterior of the case through the small opening in the bottom of the interior and turn the interior right side out. Hand sew the small opening closed, push it to the inside of the exterior and press with a warm iron.

Now, slide your favorite shades in, and you're new case is ready.

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Fabrics Used:

Ta Dot Fuschia

Punctuation Black

What I Wore: Manhattan, NY

2012-02-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend in Manhattan for my friend's Birthday. I'm pretty sure I packed enough to stay for a fortnight, but 3 days later we were packing to leave... and with twice as much stuff as I brought ;) Can't leave with out I heart NY shirts for every one I know, because let's be honest, who doesn't love it?

I Wore:

Top: J. Crew

Cardigan: Gap

Jacket: Esley from Dear Lizzie Boutique

Scarf: Target

Jeans: G. Star from Bastille

Glasses: Ray-Ban

Top: J. Crew

Jacket: J. Crew

Scarf: Target

Pants: Forever 21

Boot Socks: Target

Boots: Etienne Aigner

Block of the Month January: Pinwheel

2012-01-27T09:11:00.000-08:00

Yay! Let's start our quilts! Each block should finish a 12 1/2" square.

Please email me if you have any questions at all.

Have fun!

xoxo, Annie

Pinwheel Block

If you haven't cut with a rotary cutter before, you can watch this video I found on you tube to help you get started.

From Back Ground Fabric (light blue): Cut one 7.25" square and cut into quarters diagonally

From Accent Fabric (periwinkle): Cut one 7.25" square and cut into quarters diagonally

From Main Fabric (fuchsia): Cut two 6 7/8 " Squares and cut in half diagonally

Always Use 1/4" seam on quilts, You can buy a foot for your machine that is specifically 1/4" for quilting and makes it a lot easier. Also,don't use steam on your iron, especially because since these fabric are being cut diagonally, they are on the bias edge and will stretch if you pull too much.

Place a background and accent triangle right sides together and sew on the short side. Repeat with the remaining accent and background triangles. Sew them all on the same side so all four are identical and look like this:

Sew the finished two color unit to a main fabric triangle. Press seam toward the Main fabric. Trim back to 6 1/2 inches if needed. Repeat with the remaining units.

Lay out your blocks so they look like the picture below but line them up perfectly ;) The top two units are you first row, sew them together and press seam toward the left block. The bottom two units are your second row, sew them together and press towards the right block. Now sew the rows together and match up the center seams that you pressed in opposite directions(you can also just press the seams open, pressing them in opposite directions is a little trick I've picked up that saves a lot of time).

Your finished block should measure 12 1/2"

A Girl's Getaway...

2012-01-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

Made it home last night from a week long cruise to Mexico with my bestie, Sophia.

It's that vacation, that's so much fun you feel like you could sleep for a year when it ends.

If you don't believe me, just check out all the polaroids we captured, including one on the dance floor (yes, people, that's sweat) where we spent most of our time and energy :)

I've been using the better part of my lazy Monday, to make a mini-album with all the photos from the trip.

What'cha up to today?

Block of the Month Club

2012-01-09T10:42:00.000-08:00

If you new years resolution was to finish a quilt or even to just learn how to quilt, then you'll be interested in this. I'm starting a Block of the Month club at my home 1x a month, where we'll eat yummy food and learn how to sew a new block. after 12 months we'll all have enough blocks to complete a quilt.

If you're local to utah and interested you can email me here for more info, if you'd like to participate, but don't think you're man would be down with you flying here once a month :) Fret not, I will post the new quilt block with a tutorial here on the last friday of each month. I've also added a page at the top of my blog where any post relating to Block of the Month will be viewable.

Here's what you'll need:

10-16 coordinating fat quarters (I always buy more for variety)

1 1/2 yards of background fabric (white or other solid)

Sewing machine, Rotary cutter, Quilting Ruler, Cutting mat and other basic sewing supplies

Sew Obsessed is offering 10% off any online purchases for those participating: Use Coupon code: BOM

They've got a great selection on fat quarters and fat quarter bundles to make your life a little easier.

Check back on the 27th of January for our first block!!
xoxo,
Annie

Linking Here

Here are the fabrics I'll be using

30's Storybook

30's Feedsack

Solid Ivory

Fat Quarter Skirt

2012-01-02T04:26:00.000-08:00

This Skirt fits 3T-5T Girls

1/4" seams throughout (though, as long as your consistent you can use any width seam)

You'll need:

2 coordinating fat quarters - one main fabric and one accent fabric ( a fat quarter is approx. 18" x 22")

1/2 wide elastic

Basic sewing supplies

Step 1: Cut each fat quarter in half lengthwise so you end up with four 9" x 22" strips of fabric

Sew one of the main strips to one of the accent strips, then finish the raw edge of the seam with a serger, or a zig zag stitch to prevent fraying.

Repeat with the other strips.

You now have a front and back to your skirt.

Step 2:

Finish: Finish the bottom of the front of your skirt by either serging it or pressing it up 1/4"

Fold: Fold up and press the accent fabric 2 in. and hem it with a stitch 1/8" from the "finished" edge

Repeat with skirt back

Step 3: Place front and back of skirt right sides together and sew up the side seams, backstitching at both ends, them finish them by serging or a zig zag stitch along each raw edge of side seams

Step 4: follow directions in step two, to create a casing for your elastic in the top of your skirt, but only fold it down 1" and leave a 2" opening when you "hem" to insert your elastic.

To measure your elastic wrap it around the child who will wear the skirt at the waist, then subtract an inch from the measurement to allow a tight fit.

insert the elastic (careful not to twist it) with a large safety pin or a inserting tool attached to one end while you hold the other end securing it from sliding into the casing. Work the elastic all the way around the casing and pull out the safety pin, sew the ends of the elastic together with a zig zag stitch, backstitching several times. hide it in the opening, sew it shut and your fat quarter skirt is complete.

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Fat Quarters Used:

Happy Hogmanay

2011-12-30T23:19:00.000-08:00

Head Swag for New Years Eve

I've heard that if you make more than 2 or 3 (tops) New Years Resolutions, you won't succeed in keeping any of them. I'm taking that to heart this year and I've got three solid goals.

1. Follow a schedule

I'm pretty bad at this and I'm no good with moderation. When I get into something it's "go big or go home", so I'd like to schedule my necessities, needs and wants into my daily life so I can have a little of each, without any of the guilt or stress.

2. Eat Clean

I'm currently reading The Eat Clean Diet by Tosca Reno for the 3rd time. It's a great book full of useful information about eating non processed foods and basically cutting out sugar. You can probably understand why I haven't ever stuck to this diet. My job gives me plenty of exercise, but my eating habits are less than praise-worthy. I'll let you know how I do :)

3. Attend the Temple twice monthly

I'm a mormon and temple attendance is a great way to get away from "the world" and feel at peace. It's a great place to ponder and pray about things going on in my life. Steve and I were sealed there with Alfie when he was 7 months old so that we could be together for eternity. It was literally the happiest day of my life. Because we made those covenants, all our other children will be born under it and don't have to be sealed separately. (Most people are sealed when they get married..Steve and I did it a little backwards). When we were first sealed, I attended the temple regularly and really felt the benefits of being in touch spiritually, but life gets busy and I haven't made time for it the way I'd like to. This is the goal I'd like to attain more than the others (and probably goes right along with the "follow a schedule" goal). You can click here to learn more.

Here's to a Happy New Year!

What are your New Years Resolutions for 2012?

What I Wore: Christmas Service

2011-12-28T04:27:00.000-08:00

Top Hat: Nordstrom (Christmas Gift from Steve)

Dress: Kohls

Slip: Made by me

Cardigan: Nordstrom

Shoes: BP Nordstrom

Add Pockets to your Sweat Pants

2011-12-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

Now that Christmas is over and I've eaten my body weight in treats, it's probably time to start thinking about New Years resolutions. If yours is to hit the gym more, then why not add a little swagger to those old sweat pants :) Here's How:

Cut four 9" x 5" rectangles of fabric

Measure in from the bottom of each rectangle 2.5 inches and mark

then measure up each side from the bottom corners 2 inches and mark

Place a ruler from the bottom center to one of your side markings and cut with a rotary cutter, then repeat on the other side to create a point at the bottom of your rectangles

Place two rectangles, right sides together, and sew 1/4" seam around the perimeter leaving the top open for turning. Clip the corners to eliminate bulk in your points

Turn your pocket and press with an iron, then fold it in half length-wise and stitch across the top.

Flip the seam with the raw edges to the inside to create a triangle at the top of your pocket and press.

(see photos below)

Fold the top triangle down and press with an iron, then repeat all steps with second pocket

Pin finished pockets to your sweat pants and try them on (careful not to poke yourself). Make sure your pockets are where you'd like them.

Hand stitch them in place or zig zag around them with your sewing machine, leaving the top open.

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Fabric used:

It's a Hoot

To You and Yours

2011-12-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

In years past, I've been very organized about Christmas. Just last year, in fact, I was done with all the Christmas shopping by the end of November and had the cards send out the first week of December. Unfortunately, It has not been one of those years. We've been so busy with life that the season has flown by. Luckily, we've made time to enjoy some of the festivities that go along with Christmas.

I was in charge of and participated in the musical Christmas program at church

We Bundled up the kids and took Leah along to see the lights at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

We enjoyed Alfie's Christmas Recital, where he sang songs, danced and showed us how he learned to run away from strangers in karate.

And, of course, we took the babes to sit on Santa's lap. Alfie was a lot less nervous in comparison with last year when he would only repeat what Santa said to him (think Christmas Story).

So while there is still shopping to be done and cards to be sent, I think we've squeezed in a few good memories along the way. I'd like to say I'll have some inspiring post before Christmas, but let's be honest, I don't think I'll find the time.

Merry Christmas to you and yours.

Attention Utah Locals

2011-12-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

If you live in Utah and you love fabric (or know someone who does) , you should really stop by my Mother's house for this awesome one day fabric boutique put on by Sew Obsessed. I've loved getting to know so many of you through my blog, It'd be fun to meet you in real life :)

Hope I see you there.

What I wore: Live Nativity

2011-12-06T05:20:00.000-08:00

What I wore:

Coat: Anthropolgie

Sweater: Splendid

Shirt: Gap

Pants: Paper Denim

Shoes: Hunter

What I should have worn:

I love going out during the holidays with my family, but good heavens at only 18 degrees outside what was I thinking! 1.2 seconds after we got out of the car, Alfie screamed out that his eyes were hurting. It was that cold. Thankfully the kids were dressed a little more appropriately than I was, and I would not have missed this amazing live nativity just to be warm. It was our first year going and it was truly magical.

They drove us up in horse trailers (is that legal?) and dropped us off at a farm, where they had bonfires to stand around and hear from shepherds who told us their stories. We walked up a bit and saw real goats, camels and donkeys as well as soldiers on horses. They also had a barn where you could hear the three wisemen talk about their gifts and see people weaving baskets and rugs as well as making pottery and bread. We walked across to the other barn where they had carolers singing on the top balcony to set the feeling before we entered the stable where everyone got quiet with reverence and we walked by the most peaceful, precious, sleeping baby who was supposed to be the baby Jesus. It was all so incredible, and the hot chocolate they served afterwards helped warm us up for the walk back down. What a great experience for our family. This is definitely the start of a new tradition.

I Spy, One Patch Quilt

2011-12-05T04:29:00.000-08:00

This Quilt will be a gift for wee Alfie this Christmas and a project I've been wanted to make for a long time. My Mother's been making these quilts since before my children were born and I've always loved them. They are all over the internet, but if you've never seen one, they are quilts that you make out of novelty fabrics and when it's finished you cuddle under it to play I spy with your little one. To add a fun twist, I put two of each fabric in Alfie's quilt so we can also play a matching game.

You need 48 five inch squares

Use a quarter inch seam, and

I used Printable iron-on fabric (I picked it up at Wal-mart) to create a label. You can iron it to the backing before you get to quilting. Be sure to sew around the edges once you've ironed it in place to make it washable. Quilt your quilt, or send it away to be quilted. Bind as desired.

Unfortunately, Our long arm machine is in the shop, so Alfie's quilt is not ready to be revealed but I found some fun examples online.

Sugar Bee Quilts (also a one patch) Diary of a Quilter (One patch with solids in between)

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Kit available from Sew Obsessed for only 10 bucks! Click here to see it.

Stitched Workshop: Fabric Flowers Class

2011-12-02T20:51:00.000-08:00

This was one of my favorite classes to teach at the Sew Obsessed, and now I'm pleased to offer it online as part of the Stitched workshop.

Stitched is a very cool concept created by Alma Stroller bringing together 20 fabric artists each with a different online video class. The price is amazing for what you get. You should definitely check it out... you may even add it to your Christmas list.

My Class:

Fabric Flowers 101

Description:

You've seen all those darling embellished fabric flowers online. Now learn how to make them! Let Annie teach you 6 different fabric flower techniques, including Flat Fold Flowers, Gathered, ruched,

burnt edge, ribbon work and a rosette technique that was popular in the 30's (Annie's never taught this flower before because she holds it as dear as a secret family recipe). You'll also learn the best tips, tricks and supplies for starting and finishing them beautifully. Make your projects the envy of all who see them with these elaborate and whimsical creations.

Click here to view more details

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PB Knock-off Poinsetta Pillow

2011-11-28T04:39:00.000-08:00

I saw this pillow in their catalog and loved it, but when I got online to look at it, it was already sold out, so here's how I made my own using things I had in my sewing room.

First off, If you haven't made a pillow before, you should definitely check out my Hidden Zipper Pillow Tutorial to get started. Once you've got a pillow front ready (I used a 14 inch square pillow form) here's what to do:

Cut 5 of each out of beige felt:

7 inch petals

5 inch petals

3 inch petals

I didn't use any kind of pattern. I cut them all randomly and mixed it up each time with the shape.

Next, sew down the center of each petal with a straight stitch on your sewing machine in a matching thread color. (you could also sew a running stitch by hand with embroidery floss, but I didn't have any laying around.)

Now take the 5 largest petals and lay them out on your pillow front overlapping them in the center. Using a large gauge needle (I used size 18) sew an "X" through all the layers in the center. Repeat with the medium sized petals and the small petals until your flower is complete and attached to your pillow front (the small petals will be the most difficult to sew through so be sure you use a big needle).

Finish sewing your pillow cover together before you attach the beads/jingle bells to the center of your flower. Using a fabric glue makes it easy and is washable, but if you're a perfectionist then you'll be happier if you tack each one on by hand.

Enjoy.

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P.S. If you haven't been over to ShopSewObsessed.com lately, you will LOVE the hundreds of new items they've added not to mention their new super low prices on designer fabrics, patterns and more. They are always at least 20% off retail. Don't miss their CYBER MONDAY SALE where they are offering FREE SHIPPING anywhere in the Continental U.S. on all online orders today only!

Click here to start shopping

Handmade Holidays Link Up

2011-11-26T17:09:00.000-08:00

Time to Party Ladies!

Add your crafts, gifts, recipes, shops, traditions or any other Holiday fun now through Christmas Day!

Cyber Monday Sale

2011-11-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

Click Here to Start Looking

Cranberry Flowers

2011-11-25T04:13:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love fresh flowers? I know I do. A few years ago I saw this in a Christmas book and I've been addicted ever since. Through all of November and December you can find fresh flowers adorned with cranberry filled water at my place. I especially love using plain white roses, but they didn't have them at Costco yet (not to mention how quickly they die). These would also be great to take to a friend hosting a Holiday Party. Simple, yet so charming.
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Wee Reads

2011-11-23T04:36:00.001-08:00

Source

One of my favorite Holiday traditions is wrapping Christmas books for my kids. I use the same 12 books each year and re-wrap them for the next. They love opening and reading a book each night until Christmas arrives, though I will admit it can get them into the habit of unwrapping any present they see (and I speak from experience). This will be our second year and it feels kind of special to create traditions that are original to our little family (though not original in general). If you like the idea, but not all the money involved in buying 12 cute christmas books, do what I did and wait for the after season sales to pick them up.

T-Shirt Scarf

2011-11-21T04:08:00.000-08:00

This scarf would make the perfect gift for a friend or for yourself, and with how inexpensive and simple it is to put together, you may just make one for both :)

Using knit fabric cut

One 9"x18" Strip

One 9"x21"Strip

One 9"x 25"Strip

(you can make these longer or shorter to get a different look)

Sew the short ends together on each strip to create three tubes seen below:

Then cut each tube into one inch strips widthwise. You should have a seam at the top of each cut.

Take each cut strip and hold the seam tightly in one hand while pulling the opposite end with your other hand to stretch it. This should make the raw edges curl in.

Once you've stretched each strip, place them all together in a pleasing layout (longest on bottom and shortest on top usually does the trick) with all the seams together at the top and sew a large zig zag across them. I used a stitch length of 3.0 and a width of 6.0 and also used a size 18 needle to help get through all those layers.

Take a scrap of left over knit fabric and cut it wide enough to cover all your seams and long enough to wrap around the entire scarf. Using a washable fabric glue (Fabri-Tac), glue it in place, let it dry and it's ready to wear.

If you want to get really fancy, you could also add some beads or sequins randomly through out the strips to give it a festive look.

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Candy Advent Calendar

2011-11-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

You Probably remember making one of these as a kid, and if you loved them as much as I did, you know your kids will too! Alfie was in absolute heaven handing me each kiss to set on top of the Cling Wrap we laid across the kitchen floor (and it was a long piece, seeing there are still 46 days until Christmas). Then he loving handed me each little cut of ribbon to tie them up, but I'm not sure he understood the whole concept because he kept insisting that it was time to eat them. Thankfully, we bought another bag. :) We used the finished candy garland to decorate the mini tree in his bedroom, now every morning when we he wakes up he gets to be reminded that Christmas is just around the corner.

What I Wore: Church

2011-11-15T04:43:00.000-08:00

One of the benefits of going to church each week is being able to get dressed up and feel pretty. If you've ever stopped working and had the chance to stay home with kids, then you know why I love this. While it's not my #1 reason for attending, it is nice to buy those dresses you might normally think you'd have no where to wear and I am an avid believer (by the influence of my parents) that if you are going somewhere to worship you should always look your best.

I Wore:

Dress: Dear Lizzie Boutique

Belt: Vintage

Tights: Target

Shoes: Steve Madden -The Hubby picked them up at Last Chance while he was in AZ. Have you been there? It pretty much rocks my world.)

Linking to Pleated Poppy

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One Hour Table Runner

2011-11-14T04:19:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite patterns, taught to me by my Mother and is the perfect, easy addition to any holiday decor.

Decide the length or your table runner. You can piece it with one fabric for the top and a different fabric for the bottom or get creative and use as many fabrics are you want for the top and one fabric for the bottom.

Top of table runner should be 15-16 inches Wide

Bottom of table runner should be 22-24 inches Wide

I used 1/4 inch seams, but you can use any size you like as long as you are consistent throughout.

Layer fabrics right sides together matching side seams lengthwise, pin and sew down both creating a tube.

Turn the tube right side out and press. The extra fabric from the back will create a border, try to press it evenly creating the same size border on each side.

On one of the short ends of the table runner, fold raw edges right sides together as shown below and pin. If you'd like to use tassels on your table runner slip one between the layers against the fold with 1/4 inch hanging out. Sew along the pinned edge. backstitching at both ends.

Repeat on the other short end.

Flip the short end right side out and you've created a nice point for your table runner ends.

Press with an iron and top stitch as shown (you can also top stitch along the entire outer edge of your table runner if you'd like).

All finished. Now that you know how easy it is, you can make some for gifts as well. :)

If you haven't already, grab a Handmade Holidays button in my sidebar to follow along with all my fun Christmas projects this year. Read the details about this fun series here.

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Pattern Review: Patchwork Skirt by Pink Fig

2011-11-11T04:52:00.000-08:00

Pattern:

Finished Product:

I am seriously in love with this pattern. Talk about easy (and I'm no pro). I could never complain about directions that don't require any pattern pieces. It's just a few simple strips of pieced squares. This would be the perfect beginning project. I used the left overs from my Quilt as you Go project and I've already cut a ton of my scrap stash to make several more. The pattern ranges from size 6 months to 10 years, so I know I'll use it again and again. This one is a definite recommend.

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Fabrics and Pattern Used:

InLinkz.com

Local

2011-11-10T04:37:00.000-08:00

Since we moved Sew Obsessed online, We've missed having a little store to decorate, so we opened a small booth at the Quilted Bear in Provo, UT. It's got loads of fat quarter and half yard bundles as well darling patterns and gifts. If you are a Utah local, you should come check it out.

Baby not for sale :)

I've also got some of my personal creations in local shop Dear Lizzie, in Alpine, UT.

I've thought of opening an Etsy shop, but in an effort to be less busy I haven't done it.

So again, if you live in the area, stop by (especially if you've never been there before, you may just spend your life savings).

Here's what they're carrying

Camera Strap Covers (Yep, same as the one in my tutorial)

Ribbon work Rosette Headbands ( Sorry, No tutorial for this one. I've been hoarding this technique like it's my Grandma's secret recipe.)

Paper Party Crowns, I just LOVE making these

If you'd like to custom order any of the above items you can email me here.

June Bug Quilt

2011-11-09T04:08:00.000-08:00

If you'd like, you should visit Quilt Story to see my June Bug quilt that's being featured and read the crazy tale of how I made it.

Happy Wednesday!

How to Bind a Quilt

2011-11-08T04:20:00.000-08:00

Measure around the outside of your entire quilt, then calculate how many strips of fabric you will need to make your quilt binding. Example: This quilt was 200 inches all the way around and my fabric was 44 inches wide so I cut 5 strips of fabric which equals: 220 inches But you'll need those extra inches for corners, so always round up in your measurements.

Your strips should be 2 1/2 inches wide.

Sew the strips together using bias seams on each end to create one long piece. Bias seams create less bulk in your finished product. Bias seam shown below:

Press seams open.

Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise with wrong sides together and raw edges even, press with a warm iron.

You may attach a walking foot to your machine, but I usually don't unless my quilt is really thick. Beginning in the center at the bottom edge of your quilt, leave 10 inches of binding free from stitching, layer your binding on top of your quilt with raw edges matched up. sew a quarter inch from the raw edges as shown:

To create a mitered corner, stop 1/4 inch from the raw edge at the corner and backstitch a few stitches then remove quilt from your machine. Rotate your quilt to the left (as if you were going to sew a straight stitch down the next edge of your quilt) lift the binding strip up and away from the quilt, this should create 45 degree-angle fold at the corner. Holding it in place fold the binding back onto the quilt to create a fold that is parallel to and even with the quilt edge. Begin stitching right at the corner and down the entire side of the quilt until you reach the next corner. Stop a quarter inch away from the edge and repeat process to miter each corner of your quilt.

as you come around the last corner of your quilt, stop 10 to 12 inches from where you started stitching.

To join the binding ends:

Lay the raw edge of the beginning-end of the binding along the quilt raw edge, then lay the remaining end on top. On the top binding strip cut away the extra fabric leaving 2 1/2 in. (this is the width of your binding, and most people recommend this size, but I like mine just barely smaller so I would do 2 1/4 in. ) overlapping the bottom binding strip.

Open both ends of binding and sew them on a bias seam (see beginning of tutorial) while attached to the quilt.

Refold your binding and finish stitching it to the top of your quilt, back stitch.

You can now fold your binding to the back side of your quilt and hand sew an invisible stitch to finish it.

You can also machine stitch it, but I recommend doing it by hand. It really doesn't take long and it looks SO much better.

Please let me know if you have any questions as all. Happy Quilting!

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Handmade Holidays

2011-11-07T04:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true. All my Christmas decorations are up. I'm like that annoying radio station that starts playing Holiday tunes on November 1st.

My best friend, Sophia, was my partner in crime and we set up the 11 foot tree. It is a third generation hand-me-down, isn't pre lit and will scratch the dickens out of your arms, but love hurts, right? plus, my husband's too cheap to buy a new one :)

After everything was up (to the sounds of Michael Buble's Christmas album, no less) I stared around and thought: "there's so much more I want to add, I need to make some things". We started that night by making paper chains out of old sheet music that was left in the piano bench from the original owner. There is so much more I want/need to do. Want to join me?

Follow My handmade holiday series starting next Monday for great gift tutorials, holiday decor ideas and all things Christmas. Only 7 weeks to go!

Click here to read the schedule and dates for this exciting series, and don't forget to button up.

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Quilt-As-You-Go Strip Quilt

2011-11-02T04:03:00.000-07:00

Making a quilt can be a bit pricey, especially when you consider sending it to be quilted once you've finished piecing the top. If you are a DIY kind of gal, then this quilting method will definitely appeal. Here's how to make it:

Using anywhere between 3 and 16 different fabrics cut the following strips:

Three 6" x 42"

Two 5" x 42"

Four 4" x 42"

Five 3" x 42"

Two 2" x 42"

Lay them out on the ground in a random pleasing pattern. Then, cut a backing fabric (you may need to piece it) 45" x 60" and use a spray adhesive to attach it to a baby crib size batting. Then lay it on the ground batting side up.

Pin the bottom strip to the bottom of your batting/backing right side up and sew along the bottom edge where it's pinned using a 1/4 in. seam (you will be sewing through all three layers). Now, lay the next strip on top of the attached strip right sides together with edges matched up. Sew through all four layers where you've pinned. Now press the seam open so you're new strip is right side up, then attach the next strip the same way as the last and repeat until the all strips are attached.

To make it easy while you are sewing the seams, roll up the excess backing/batting so it will sit nicely to the right of your needle. Be sure to always sew in the same direction, if you try to turn your quilt and sew from the other side, you risk stretching the fabric (which never looks nice). When you've completed your quilt, trim the edges and bind as desired. Not sure how to bind? Watch for my binding tutorial next tuesday.

This is a condensed tutorial, if you have any questions, please ask!

One more thing, when your quilt is done, you've got to "break it in" (as we call it at our house) by letting your baby/grandbaby/neighbors baby walk, lay or wipe their snotty nose on it. :) Here's Juliette on Halloween initiating her new quilt.

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Fabrics Used:

What I Wore: Halloween

2011-11-01T04:25:00.000-07:00

It's fun to have a husband that goes along with your crazy ideas.

When I told Steve I wanted to be a "Desperate Housewife" and for him to be a dead husband, he didn't bat an eyelash. I wish we had taken more pictures, so you could see how this butcher knife was sticking out of his chest all on its own. When I told him it was time for makeup, he came in and sat right down like he'd done it a million times before.

This was a last minute costume decision, as are all of our past, present and probably future Halloweens.

I love Halloween, but am notorious for coming up with our costumes that day of, (or the day before if we're lucky).

I'm not sure why.

I always have grand plans to sew amazing getups, and with the amount of sewing I do, it doesn't seem too unreasonable, but that's just the way I roll.

Regardless, we had an awesome night carving pumpkins (see him in the photo? Steve made sure he was in it), trunk or treating, trick or treating (minus Alfie telling the neighbor lady that he didn't like her candy) and eating chinese with Steve's Dad.

No Tricks, Just Treats

2011-10-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Today only receive 10% off Sew Obsessed's already reduced prices with coupon code: SPOOKY

Take advantage and get started on your christmas gifts!

I can't believe I've never taken my kids Trick or Treating in my neighborhood. We've always had other plans or have been out of town. I guess this years the first!

What are your Halloween Plans?

Top Hat Headband

2011-10-28T04:21:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to make Juliette a little Top Hat Headband and I thought Halloween would be the perfect time for her to wear one. I bought a mini top hat in the doll making aisle at the craft store and embellished it with feathers, fabric flowers, lace and beads, then attached it to black elastic. She had nothing to wear with it, so I made her a little skirt. She had me smiling all night at the pumpkin patch, but that smile soon faded when we stopped for ice-cream and the hat never made back to the car with us :( No one ever found it. Oh well, at least we got a couple pictures of her in it, and honestly with how simple it was I may just make her another.

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Say Cheese

2011-10-27T04:15:00.000-07:00

You know you probably take too many pictures (is there such a thing) when you're kid starts making this face every time you tell him to "Say Cheese". Even Steve has started doing it.

I can sometimes get a genuine smile with good old fashioned reverse psychology. You know the "Don't you dare laugh" trick. And every once in a while and I do mean once in a while, he just cooperates and I get a keeper like this one:

Oh, my sweet, sweet boy, I love him so much.

How do you get your kids to cooperate for pictures?

Thanksgiving Place Cards

2011-10-26T04:57:00.000-07:00

To Cover your lid, Start by either tracing it onto the back of desired fabric or use my favorite tool ever, the Olfa Circle Cutter, to cut a circle that's just barely bigger than your jar top. Glue it on with a non-toxic spray adhesive. Then, Cut a 1/2" strip of coordinating fabric and glue it around the outside of the lid ring.

Finish by superglueing a mini clothes pin to the front. Then you can fill each jar with a single serving of Pumpkin Pie Cheese Cake and clip your place cards on.

Check out the actual Place Card Tutorial today at Whipper Berry and learn how to turn them into a darling mini album when everyone is as stuffed as the turkey :)

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Fabrics Used

What I wore: Bags

2011-10-24T04:38:00.000-07:00

I had a request to do a post on the bags I wear and where I buy them. The purse in the photo above was bought a boutique in Vegas but I'll be honest, I don't buy a lot of bags.

I really want to though. When I see them in all their glory at the department store, I really want to buy them, but my true fetish is shoes and that tends to trump any accessory that might call out to me.

So, you can imagine my joy when Steve picked me up this l.a.m.b. clutch/bag for our anniversary

(all by himself, mind you). I'm so in love, and I like my husband too :)

I think another reason I don't purchase many handbags is because I love to sew and since I don't think ruffle pants would look great on me, it's one of the few items I can sew for myself with all the gorgeous cotton fabrics at my fingertips.

Here are some of the bags I've sewn lately (and use ALL the time) :

1. The Down Home Tote, which I modified to function as a camera bag.

2. The Perfectly Pleated Clutch . Started out as a clutch and ended up as a makeup bag.

3. The Sew Obsessed Bag, The bag I use everyday in every way.

4. Key Keeper coin purse. I hooked this onto my keys and slip my phone into it when I'm at the gym.

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Fabrics and Patterns used:

Hankie Dress

2011-10-21T04:19:00.000-07:00

After being inspired by a shop on Etsy, I had to make Juliette a Hankie Dress. I'm not exaggerating when I say this dress took an hour from start to finish. I just started with a dress from Target, removed the bow, added lace hankies and 10" squares of fabrics to the skirt, some pleated fabric at the shoulders and a doily or two hand appliquéd on. I don't know If I've ever had so many compliments on something so easy to make. It does help to have such an adorable baby wearing it (in my humble opinion).

Etsy is one of my favorite places to get ideas. Where do you go to get inspired?

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Fabrics Used

Linking Here

Ordinary Moments

2011-10-20T04:54:00.000-07:00

Blogs make everyone's lives look so exciting, I suppose it's because we only capture the very best moments, but what about the ordinary moments, aren't those worth a post every now and then?

1. The Haunted Circus: I only entered this to appease Steve, I HATE haunted houses.

2. sneaking pictures while shopping because "I could make that" (words I think most of us have uttered).

3. The chillins pulling me in the wagon, It's hard work being a Mom.

4. Cheesecake Factory with the Hub. mmmm... and the food was good too. :)

5. Alfie in his skivvies with a new battle wound.

6. Moccasin weather is happy weather.

7. Entertainment for all.

8. Found my glasses after loosing them for the 90,000th time.

Ruffle Hoodie

2011-10-18T04:08:00.000-07:00

With the weather changing, I've realized that Juju doesn't have much in the way of warm clothing. I'd love to hit up all the cutest baby stores, but I never seem to find the time. I could shop online and I do, but the most convenient time for me to pick up new clothes is when I'm already out. I picked this hoodie up at Walmart while I was grocery shopping the other day, and thought it could use a feminine touch. Here's how to make your own Ruffle Hoodie:

Measure from the bottom of the zipper on one side all the way around the top of the hood down to the bottom of the zipper on the other side. Cut a strip of fabric (you may have to piece it) that is 2"x the hoodie measurement doubled. My measurement was 40" so my strip was 2" x 80". This will become your ruffle.

Serge around the entire strip, if you don't have a serger use a zig zag stitch instead, or you can fold the edges under and sew a straight stitch to finish them, or hey, don't finish them at all.

Use a basting stitch (the longest stitch your machine allows) to sew down the center of your entire ruffle strip. Leave threads long enough on both ends to pull and do not back stitch.

Pin the center of your ruffle strip to the center top of the hood wrong side facing down, then pin the two ends of the strip to the bottoms of the zipper on both sides (see image above). Start pulling the top thread on your basting stitch to create ruffles. Push and Pull the ruffles until they lay flat from the center of the hood to the end you are pulling, pin them in place. Repeat from the other end of the strip (The same way I showed in my Ruffle Bum Onesie Tutorial).

Using a regular stitch length sew down the center of your ruffle attaching it to the hoodie backstitching at both ends. Be sure your bobbin thread matches the hoodie and your top thread matches the ruffle.

Like how it turned out? Make one for yourself :)

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Fabrics Used

It's a Hoot

Vibrant Bug Hunt

Linking Here

P.S. We got Bonnie and Camille's New Ruby Line in Yesterday. I adore them, they work for any season and would make a perfect christmas quilt. Plus, at $9.00 a yard, now we can all afford to make one :) Take a look:

Swoon Ruby	Swoon Grey	Jitterbug Cream	Jitterbug Aqua	Swoon Lime
Retro Cream	Dainty Cream	Sundae Lime	Sundae Ruby

What I Wore: Anniversary

2011-10-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

Steve and I recently celebrated Anniversary number 6. It may not seem very long to some of you, but I can't believe it's been 6 years since we got hitched, and 9 since we met. I guess it's true what they say: "Time flies when you're having fun". Not that it's all fun and games. We have our moments just like any other couple, and maybe even more than other couples, but I guess we just keep things exciting.
And that's the way we like it. Ugh... I love him.

What I Wore:

Esley Jacket

Joe's Jeans

Mossimo Boots

Favorite Memories Album

2011-10-13T04:56:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like your friends rub off on you?

That's how I've been feeling lately. I've never really cared for paper crafting, but the more I hang out with Lizzy and see her darling mini albums, the more I want to make my own. So with Steve's 30th Birthday Party last week, I seized the opportunity and made a "Favorite Memories Album". I decorated each page before the party with enough room to fit an Instax Wide (Polaroids taken with my Instax 210, a camera Steve makes fun of because he says it looks like it's from 1995, and it's not old enough to be cool, yet. )

ha ha, He might be right

I took pictures of everyone at the party and let them choose a page to glue in their photo and write a favorite memory of Steve. I could tell it really made his day to read all the nice (and funny) things people had to say about him.

That, and the badges I made everyone wear showcasing silly and cute pictures of him growing up. I was lucky enough to sport the photo of him wearing a snuggie. :)

Between bowling, pizza, a Sweet Tooth Fairy Cupcake with 30 candles shoved into it and my Mom quilting the biking quilt we all made him at last years quilt retreat, I'd say it was a hit.

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Heat wave to Harvest Placemats

2011-10-11T04:39:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe I've never sewn myself placemats before. You should see what we've been protectiing our table with...placemats I picked up for 50 cents a pop. Needless to say, they're not exactly eye candy.

I've wanted to make some, and I tend to lean towards summer colors but with snow capped mountains behind my house, I figured I'd better go with a fall scheme. But, why not get the best of both worlds with a reversible place mat?

Here's How to make them:

1. Choose 2 coordinating Spring/Summer fabrics and 2 coordinating Fall/Winter fabrics.

For each side, One will be your accent fabric and the other will be you main fabric.

Cut one 11 1/4" x 12" block from each main fabric

Cut one 6 1/4" x 12" block from each accent fabric

Sew the coordinating fabrics right sides together matching 12" sides.

Press.

2. Mark diagonal quilting lines with a white crayon and a clear ruler 1 1/2" apart on one side of your placemat.

3. Layer your placemat right sides out with a 17 1/2" x 12 1/2" piece of batting in between.

Use spray adhesive or pins to hold it together

4. Stitch down each diagonal line. When your placemat starts to hit the inside of your machine, roll it in towards the needle. Don't ever flip your place mat around and start sewing from the other direction or you'll get big bubbles in your quilting. (I learned that the hard way)

Use a hot iron to press the crayon off your placemat, trim the batting leaving a 1/4" hangover and bind it like a quilt.

Fabrics used:

Summer
Summer House Popsicle Pink by Moda
and
Summer House Floral Aqua by Moda

Fall
Anna Maria Horner Glow
and
Anna Maria Horner Hugs and Kisses Pink Lime

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P.S. Congrats to Catskill Quilter who wrote comment number 118: "Lovely Fabrics! I am a regular follower of you blog!". You've won the Summer House Fat Quarters from last weeks giveaway.

I'll be in contact soon :)

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What I (almost) Wore: Beehive Tea Room

2011-10-10T04:24:00.000-07:00

Dress: Darling

Slip: la la lovely

Jacket: Express

Belt: Vintage

Shoes: Steve Madden

The Beehive Tea Room is a charming restaurant and wedding library in downtown Salt Lake City. It's a favorite for lunch, because the food is delicious and the decor is fun to look at. Collin Kartchner Studios even took our family pictures there a few months ago.

I was thrilled to get an invitation for a friend's baby shower being held there. So excited, in fact, that I almost showed up a month early, until I checked the invite at the last minute. ha ha

When the day finally arrived, I put on my best "Tea Room Attire" and started heading out the door, only to be informed that Juliette's bathroom had flooded and I needed to stay with the kids while Steve ripped up all the carpet so it would't mold.

What a Bummer! I guess it wasn't meant to be :(

At least I got this photo of Steve being manly :) and a few self timer shots of my outfit before I traded it in for sweats.

How was your weekend?

Pattern Review: Amy Butler's Key Keeper Coin Purse

2011-10-07T04:39:00.000-07:00

The Pattern:

I don't often capture the process in my sewing projects, so I smiled when I saw these pictures my good friend Lizzy took and edited for me. I love that she blurred out the messy background too :), yes, it ALWAYS looks like that.

I've made other bags from Amy Butler patterns and one specifically from her Style Stitches Book.

I have to say, She gives good directions and though they sometimes seem long, I'd rather be over informed than lost.

I always love the design quality in her bags, they are so cute, but I have noticed (after being informed) that she calls for, what seems like an excess of fabric. The Perfectly Pleated Clutch I made from her book called for a yard more fabric than I needed, but I've utilized the left overs in lots of scrap buster projects and that's exactly what this project ended up being. I used the remains from Juliette's Ruffle Pants to assemble it.

Lizzy and I made them on a whim, so we used what I had.

Hers turned out unbelievably sweet, but sadly, someone else thought so too, and snagged it. Guess all you can do is hope they are enjoying it :(

The bag was appropriately labeled "intermediate" in Amy's book. I'm anxious to try some of her others which range from easy all the way to experienced. This pattern is a definite recommend.

Linking here

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Happy Endings

2011-10-06T04:26:00.000-07:00

It seems a lot of things are coming to an end for us, lately.

We've come to the end of our summer vacations and spent the weekend in Lake Powell for the last time this year. Steve had a blast using his GoPro camera, as usual, but was especially stoked because he bought a screen to attach to the back, which brings us to the end of guessing if we are recording in the right position :)

Tomorrow marks the end of Steve's 20's. But who says you're old at 30?

He's still got skills, and you can watch this video if you need proof.

Okay, it's a little long, but if you are patient you will get to see Alfie on the surfboard with Steve and it's to die for cute. Enjoy.

Lake Pal by Collin Kartchner Studios

Sew Obsessed Giveaway (CLOSED)

2011-10-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

We are still working hard on our new and improved online shop Sew Obsessed, but in the meantime we've dropped every single fabric price permanently. You won't pay more than 9.00 a yard for any designer fabrics, which includes Amy Butler, Heather Bailey and many many more.

What's even better than affordable fabric?

FREE FABRIC!

Win these 6 Lily Ashburn fat quarters by Moda

Here's How:

( Each is a separate entry, so please leave a separate comment for each.)

1. Follow This Blog

2. Visit Sew Obsessed and tell me your favorite item

3. Follow Sew Obsessed on Facebook

4. Follow Sew Obsessed on Twitter

Good Luck!

Giveaway ends 10/8/2011 @ 11:59pm

Piano Applique

2011-10-04T04:57:00.000-07:00

We picked up an old piano from the previous owners of our old house who got it for 100 dollars from a friend's grandmother.

It's been around the block, literally.

I love that it's old. It could use a good tuning, but I've been wanting to doll it up for some time now. I thought about hiring someone to paint the front of it.

Then I got on YouTube and tried to learn how to paint, an idea that failed miserably.

I contemplated modpodging fabric onto it, but was scared I would ruin it.

So , I moved the piano to the end of my project list... that is until my Sister, Lorna, came in town and inspired me to do this Piano Applique.

Here's How:

Press fusible web (I used heat and bond lite) onto the wrong side of a panel of fabric.

Cut out desired applique, peel off paper

Press with a hot iron directly onto piano/wall/furniture.

When you're tired of looking at it remove it with no damage to your furniture.

(at least that's what I hear, I haven't tried removing it yet, because I simply love it.)

I used this Heather Bailey fabric

Linking Here

Don't miss out on Sew Obsessed's Moda Fabric Giveaway, Click here to Enter

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Kicks

2011-10-03T04:07:00.000-07:00

Spent the weekend kicking up my feet, away from the sewing machine, in warm and sunny Lake Powell.

Speaking of feet... These oxfords I spotted at Nordstrom have me rethinking my shoelaces.

Heaven knows I've got mountains of ribbon laying around.

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Antique Lace Wristlet

2011-09-30T04:03:00.000-07:00

My Mother gifted me some antique lace. I've been using it though out various projects I've completed, but I think my favorite has been this lace Wristlet. I didn't have enough old trim, so I mixed it with new lace and ribbon and sewed them strip by strip to a small fabric bracelet I originated. (smiling)

I added two buttons to give it a victorian feel and even made an extra one to give as a friendship bracelet.

P.S. Don't miss this fabulous fabric giveaway!

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Linking Here

Round Here.

2011-09-29T04:52:00.000-07:00

By some miracle we are still enjoying warm weather here in Utah.

How 'bout you?

DIY: Project labels

2011-09-27T04:12:00.000-07:00

Why do Projects look more impressive when they have a tag on them?

They just do.

Here how to make your own:

Create labels on your computer. I used a "Label Wizard" program in Word on my Mac and set it to "return address labels", which fit perfectly on 1/2 inch wide twill Ribbon.

Print a practice sheet on regular paper to make sure it will fit your ribbon, then print onto Inkjet Printable Fabric (make sure it's iron-on). Cut labels into 1/2 inch strips then follow printable fabric directions to press strips onto your twill ribbon.

Just cut one from the ribbon when you finish a project and sew it on.

P.S. Win some gorgeous Moda Fabric! Click here to enter the giveaway.

Linking here

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What I Wore: Baby Shower

2011-09-26T04:04:00.000-07:00

My Beautiful Sister-in-law is having a baby. It may be her third, but we are always looking for an excuse for some girl time in my family. (when you grow up with 4 brothers, you need it!)

The shower was at Dear Lizzie, My new favorite place to shop and eat. If you go you must try the spinach salad. Holy Momma!
Speaking of which...

She looked just darling in her "It's a Boy" crown and loved the Cloth Diaper Burp Rags and Onesie I made her. I just adore the way the fabric looks on the bow tie.

I wore:

Dress: Walmart
Belt: Anthropologie
Necklace: Downeast Outfitters
Earrings: J.Crew

You can't see in this picture, but I also wore the Shoes and Slip I wore in our family pictures.

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Pattern Review: Rosie Posie Pants by Pink Fig Patterns

2011-09-23T04:16:00.000-07:00

Pattern:

My finished Pant:

You may not be into the super frilly, girly, ruffley stuff, but If you are (and I am) then you will love this pant, or any Pink Fig Pattern in that case. These pants were SUPER simple. If you've made pajama pants before and know how to sew a basting stitch to create a ruffle, (and even if you haven't!) these pants are a cinch. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow. These pants are a little more time consuming than other's I've made due to all the ruffles, but definitely not hard.

The pattern calls for a rolled hem stitch on a serger, but I just used a 3 thread overlock stitch. Don't panic if you have no idea what I just said, she gives instructions to make the entire pant with a good old fashion sewing machine :) I would recommend this pattern to anyone and even/especially a beginner.

I used This and This Fabric from Anna Maria Horner.

Linking here

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Instagram

2011-09-22T04:50:00.000-07:00

My friend, Sophia, tells me I do things in extremes. I always respond with

"If you're going to get wet, you might as well go swimming!"

She's right you know, I do get obsessed (no pun intended).

Since being introduced to it by a friend, My latest vice is instagram. It's an iPhone app that allows you to take pictures, then use a filter to make them look cool. It links to all your social networking sites and posts your photos.

Here are a few things I've caught on Instagram lately

1. Shoes

2. The State Fair

3. Do I look smart, yet?

4. Heaven in a can

5. Girl Seran Wrapped to a pole

6. Shopping with Juju

7. First day of School

8. Bowling with friends

If you have an iPhone, You should definitely download this free app. It's a great way to capture little moments and share them instantly, plus who always wants to lug their camera around?

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Stay-put Hair Bow

2011-09-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

Every hair bow I make, that's not a headband, seems to fall our of Juliette's hair, So I was thrilled when I saw my sister-in-law making these. I pulled out the old scrap box when I got home.

The main trick to keeping them in, is to use a contour clip instead of an alligator clip, but if the bow is too heavy it will still fall out. These are just the right size and weight for an everyday hair bow.

Cut two 2" x 4" rectangles with your fabric folded (cut them at the same time with wrong sides together).

Now leave them just as they are and sew 1/4" in from the edge around the entire rectangle, pivoting at each corner.

pull the little strings on the edges of your fabric to fray it

Using heavy (or upholstery) thread, sew a running stitch down the center of your rectangle, then pull it tight to gather the middle, and wrap the thread around the center a few times and tie it off.

Now, cut a 2" x 2 1/2" square of the same fabric and press each long side into the center.

Hot glue it around the center of your bow to hide the thread (don't burn yourself), then cut off any excess. Be sure you start and stop your center piece on the back of the bow so you won't see any glue.

Glue it to a contour clip while the clip is open, so you don't accidentally glue it shut.

Wait for it to dry and you're done!

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Linking here

Quickie

2011-09-19T04:26:00.000-07:00

Do you love carnivals and fairs as much as I do?

I'm a visual person and I just adore nostalgic signs and rides and all the booths full of useless junk that I always seem to purchase.
I especially love the state fair because of the quilts on display, unfortunately, I was too busy boring my husband with quilt info to take any photos.
There are so many amazing quilters in Utah and yet there are very few quilts entered.
I'll admit, I've never even thought of entering anything I've made, but why not? Maybe next year.
Have you ever entered or won something?

The chillins loved seeing all the stinky animals, and I secretly did to. We even saw some geese wearing aprons, and they didn't even seem upset about it.

Steve always spoils the kids at fairs and they rode lots of fun rides, but Alfie did inform us that next time we come he "wants to go on 7 rides".

Glad we made that quickie trip to the fair that morning, I delayed my drive to vegas for it, and it was well worth it.

Pattern Review: Polkadots & Summer by Fig Tree & Co.

2011-09-16T04:27:00.000-07:00

The Pattern:

My finished dresses:

Photo taken by Dear Lizzy

This pattern was very simple and would be a great beginning project for those wanting to advance from small projects to clothing. It's always nice to have a Serger, but if you don't have one you can simply zig zag the raw edges for the same effect.

It explains how to use freezer paper to trace your pattern as well. This keeps it re-usable and you can make as many dresses as your heart desires with one pattern.

The illustrations are very clear and I completed one dress in an afternoon. It called for a covered button, but I just used a sew on snap to make it easy on myself.

I think they turned out darling, though using this fabric helps a lot!

I will definitely be making one of these for Juliette soon.

linking here

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Just Dance.

2011-09-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

Alfie officially loves his preforming arts school. After the first day he informed me that dancing was his favorite part and he couldn't remember anything he learned. :)

Traveling Art Kit

2011-09-13T04:26:00.000-07:00

You may remember the art kit that Liz made Alfie. Well, that sort of sent me on a sewing spree (but what's new?).

I didn't have those cute little bags she used so I made this instead.

You will need:

Two 10" x 20" pieces of fabric (alike or different)
One 10" x 20" piece of fusible fleece
a Button and all your basic sewing essentials.

Use 1/4 in. Seams throughout

Start by ironing on the fusible fleece to the wrong side of one of your pieces of fabric.
(follow the directions that come with the fleece if you haven't used it before)

Lay your fabrics on top of each other with right sides together.
Mark 4 inches down on each long side
and 5 inches across (center) on one short end.
Use a ruler and cut from each side marking to the center marking, to create a point on one end of your fabrics.

Pin your layers together and sew all the way around them, leaving a 4 inch opening in the bottom (for turning).

trim the corners or cut off any "points" you see, being sure not to cut through your stitching

Now turn your bag through the small hole in the bottom, then press it, folding in the opening.
1. Top stitch around the entire bag catching the opening to sew it shut.
2. fold up the bottom of the bag so it sits 1/2" to 1" below the pivot that leads to the point (to make it look like an envelope) . Pin it in place on both sides.
3. Sew down each side right over the top of where you've already stitched.
4. Sew a button hole just below the point in the top of the bag
(if you've never done this, you can read about it in your sewing machine manual, it's so simple and usually really easy to understand-practice on a scrap fabric first if you need to)

Finally, Sew the button to the front of the bag.
Now, fill it full of goodies and make (or buy) a journal to give as an "Art Journal" set.
Definitely a one of a kind gift they will cherish for a very long time.

Mermaid fabric coming soon to Sew Obsessed

Linking here

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Date Night: Rascal Flatts Concert

2011-09-12T04:19:00.000-07:00

Steve and I have been in need of a real date night (as in, not the movies). Steve picked us up some concert tickets to see Sara Evans and Rascal Flatts. Both were awesome. I'm not a die-hard country music fan, but I will say this: Country music concerts are probably the funnest concerts to see.

The year Steve and I met, Rascal Flatts had just come out with their first popular album, and we loved it and listened to it constantly, so it's kind of like a little sound track to our dating life. We've seen them several times and they never fail to impress.

To make the night complete We ate at our favorite greasy mexican restaurant

and had dessert as Sweet Tooth Fairy, this place is the reason that I could never get off sugar . yum.....

and I wore my new bag made by Tanya. You may remember this bag, I made from the same pattern, but if you know me well, then you know I wear things out VERY quickly. When I saw that Tanya was closing her Etsy shop, I jumped online asap and purchased this. She is definitely one of my idols when it comes to sewing skills.

Check out her machine quilting and her ribbon work flowers.

She used this fabric and her pattern, which she custom made for Sew Obsessed.

by the way, Sew Obsessed is having a HUGE sale this week only, 30% off your entire purchase with the coupon code:
SEPTEMBER

Linking to Pleated Poppy and here

2011-09-11T05:58:00.000-07:00

Polaroid Banner

2011-09-09T04:05:00.000-07:00

I've spent the entire summer taking pictures with my new Fuji Instax Mini camera, that produces these darling little polaroids.

I've had a stack sitting in my office for some time now and decided it was time to do something about it. So I stitched up this polaroid banner.

Here's How:

Cut out a bunch of shapes from a paper punch.

I used a heart, because I LOVE to take pictures, but flowers would be really fun too.

Gather all the pictures you have laying around your house. They don't have to be polaroids, but they'll hold their shape better if they are small.

First, pull your thread so you have a long tail to hang your banner from, then take one of your shapes and sew right over the top of it, (the more textured the paper, the harder it is to sew over). Pull the tail while your sew a few stitches into thin air. Next, simply set another heart down and repeat. I like 3 or 4 shapes in a row.

Now sew right along the top of your photos and then sew another series of shapes.

It's that simple. You now have a banner to hang in your babies nursery, as decor at a party, or in your front room.

You'll just be happy to have those pictures out of a box and on display.

Linking here

Pin It

cross stitch iPhone cover

2011-09-08T04:31:00.000-07:00

When I found this product I about passed out from pure happiness.

My two loves, sewing and electronics, have finally joined forces in a very creative way.

This will definitely be pinned onto my "Why didn't I invent this?" board.

You can buy this beauty here, I know I will be purchasing it. Stay tuned for my new iPhone cover.

Change is good.

2011-09-07T04:06:00.000-07:00

Sew Obsessed is going through some big changes, and these changes are great!

We've had less than half of our inventory available online, but we are pleased to announce that we are moving our store location to the World Wide Web. Keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks because new items are going to start being added every single day, and these are fabrics, patterns and other goodies I've been dying to share with you.

use the coupon code "Change" to receive 25% off your entire online purchase today only!

Top Stop

2011-09-06T04:54:00.000-07:00

On our Drive to Lake Powell, we blew a tire with in the first hour. Thank goodness it was right next to a Cracker Barrel. I always love a good wander through their gift shop. So while steve was being manly and changing the tire, the kids and I went discovering.

We found throw-back crayon boxes, harmonicas and even an accordion, Alfie had a hard time giving it up. I ogled at I love lucy salt and pepper shakers and tasty treats that were popular when my mom was little. Clove flavored gum, anyone?

We finally settled on a top and some candy buttons, and we barely had time to play and eat before Steve was finished and we were back on the road.

I told him I am fine with flat tires, as long as they happen in front of Cracker Barrel.

Art Kit

2011-09-05T04:28:00.000-07:00

My friend Liz made this sweet Art Kit for Alfie to take on our latest trip to Lake Powell.

It was meant for him to fill with his adventures on our trip, but it got me thinking...

This is now his first official journal,

and we used the Instax Mini Camera to take tiny polaroids of all the fun things he did, then wrote, colored, and painted about them in his new book.

It's nice to have creative friends, isn't it?

Little Lulu's Nest

2011-09-02T21:23:00.000-07:00

Want to win some seriously cute stuff? Go check out the giveaway going on over at Little Lulu's Nest, authored by my childhood friend, Gentri. It runs through Labor Day.

If you aren't a giveaway person, just go check out the blog, it's got tons of cute decor ideas and yummy recipes.

Happy Holidays :)

Preforming Monkey

2011-09-02T05:28:00.000-07:00

Alfie is entering his second year of preschool, and I'm so glad for his sake. He is SO bored at home and a 1 year old sister just does't seem to cut it.

I've enrolled him in a preforming arts preschool. Don't get me wrong, I am not trying to create a child star, and I have no desire live vicariously through my children, but he is my musical boy. If you haven't seen his beatbox video you can check it out here.

He will attend three days a week and along with learning kindergarten worthy ciriculum he get's to Sing , Dance and learn Karate.

Three extra activities I don't have to drive him to... nice.

He made me laugh because when I told him about karate and singing he was super excited, but when I told him about the dance he got serious and said

"is it cool dance?"

I don't know how "cool" his new dance moves will be, but I'm certain they will be cute.

Photo taken by Collin Kartchner Studios

2011-09-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I got sick of seeing people posting thing to their blog from "Pinterest" and not knowing what it was. I googled it. What would we do without google?

Anyway, Ever since I got an account, I've been OBSESSED. (Yes, I like that word) I'm really surprised at how many people don't know what it is. I guess I thought I was the only one.

Here's my explanation of this really clever site. Pinterest in my eyes is a perfect way to stop putting "bookmarks" on millions of websites that I never revisit.

It's a site that let's you create virtual pin boards. You create your boards and they look like this:

You can name them whatever you want... Create, Style, Home, Photography... You get the idea.

Then when you find something online that you really want to remember and come back to you "pin" onto the appropriate board. The site creates a link with an image, You now have a bookmark with an image so you won't forget about that awesome project you were dying to do.

You can also view all your pins on one page and it looks like this

You can follow your friends and their pins and you can even re-pin what they have found. You find your friends through the

Twitter and Facebook tools they have on the Pinterest site.

Each time you log in, you get to see the most recent pins from those you follow. It looks like this:

Pinterest won't let you just go sign up. Kind of silly, but you either get on a waiting list, or you can be invited by a member. If you'd like to be invited, just comment with your email address and I'll send you an invite this weekend.

Hope that clears things up, and maybe even inspires you to check out this great new hangout.

Happy Pinning!

What I Wore in San Fran

2011-08-31T05:11:00.000-07:00

Steve and I made a very short 36 hour trip to San Francisco last week.

I so wish it would have been a little longer, seeing it was my first time there.

We got upgraded for free to a suite at our hotel (yay Expedia!), but I'm pretty sure they made up for it with a $60 breakfast buffet and $57 Valet parking. I wish I was joking.

We of course had to see the Golden Gate Bridge and it was all it's chalked up to be, and the fog moved through so quickly we had to wait for the perfect moment to take a picture.

And we saw David Beckham on the trail, oh, wait no, that was just my hot husband.

(You can roll your eyes now)

Then we hit up China Town (which is one of my favorite NYC activities), and it did not disappoint.

I take that back, Steve bought a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup there that had to be at least 3 years old and it smelled like clothes your grandma has had in the back of her closet for 50 years.

But it did make for some good laughs, I guess the Chinese aren't into peanut butter in their treats.

Steve had to try on a hat and I was busting a gut, but a little weirded out thinking how many other people have probably had that hat on their head.

It was a very fleeting getaway, but who wouldn't love to come home to these cuties and give them their new pajamas.

Shirt: Down East Outfitters

Skirt: Made by me

Belt: Vintage

Slip: Made by me

Earrings: Express

Ribbonwork

2011-08-29T05:32:00.000-07:00

Tanya (the instructor for Sew Obsessed) has introduced me to Ribbon Work.

Oh my heavens! It's time to bring this art back, ladies! I'm telling you, it makes the most unbelievably gorgeous flowers.

I've only learned one so far, and it's not even with ribbon. (it is a ribbon work technique, though)

I've been adding them to EVERYTHING, and I am now on a headband kick for Juliette

Whatcha think?

What We Wore Wednesday: Family Pictures

2011-08-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've never been to a family photo shoot that was quite as fun as this one, done by Collin Kartchner Studios.

Annie

Dress: Dear Lizzie Boutique

Slip: Made by me

Top: Downeast Outfitters

Shoes: Steve Madden

Earrings: J.Crew

Steve

Shirt: Express

Jeans: G.Star

Shoes: Keds

Alfie

Hat: Gap Kids

Shirt: Janie and Jack

Jeans: Gap Kids

Shoes: Toms

Juju

Dress: Nordstrom

Shoes: Baby Gap

Hair Bow: Made by me

Linking to Pleated Poppy

Pattern Review: Down Home Tote by Sweet Water

2011-08-23T04:13:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about visiting the shop, is taking classes from Tanya Greb, She is an unbelievable instructor and I always take home little hints and tips.

I learned how to install Grommets in this class and wow, it was so easy. She told me if you buy them at home depot, they are much cheaper and WAY better quality (I learned that the hard way).

This Pattern, was super simple to make, but Tanya always changes a few things to make it even easier. The pattern suggested appliquéing on the pieces first, then sewing them onto the batting, but we just did it all in one step. Who doesn't love a short cut?

I also boxed my corners much bigger than the pattern called for, so I could add an insert and turn it into my camera bag.

I will definitely be making these as gifts,because they were so easy and fun to make. I used this fabric for the center, this fabric for the edges and the turquoise and red fabrics are available at the store front, though the rose fabric is coming VERY soon online.

Union Jack Armoire

2011-08-22T04:26:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend in Vegas at the Shop. I make trips about once a month to teach classes, take classes, and of course see what darling new items have been added to the store.

I about fainted when I saw this Armoire my Sister, Lorna, Painted (not to mention the delicious new fabric that's in it).

She followed my Union Jack Sofa Table Tutorial to make this, and I'm re-inspired!

It's off to the thrift shops

Sew Obsessed

2011-08-19T04:48:00.000-07:00

Friday and Saturday Only!

No coupon code necessary.

Click here to start shopping

Fetching Finds: Pineapple Cutter

2011-08-18T04:31:00.000-07:00

When School Days arrive I get very sad, which may sound silly because my children aren't even school aged yet.

What is it about Back to School sales that makes me feel like summer's end is rapidly approaching?

As much as I love a 25 cent box of crayons, it just doesn't seem to cut it.

We've found a way to hold onto summer at our house, by eating lots of pineapple.

And we've been using this awesome gadget.

It's cuts and cores your pineapple with the twist of the handle.

Plus, Alfie just loves drinking the juice out the bottom of the hollowed fruit.

How are you holding onto warm weather?

Sew Obsessed Classes

2011-08-17T14:16:00.000-07:00

A little bird told me that Sew Obsessed has their newest classes posted online.

If you live in the Vegas area, or will be visiting there in the next couple months, you should definitely check them out by clicking here.

Hidden Zipper Pillow

2011-08-16T10:47:00.000-07:00

Start by cutting your pillow front to the size of your pillow form plus 1/2". I used an 18" pillow form so I cut my pillow front 18.5" x 18.5". Cut your pillow back 18.5" x 18.5"+ a few inches ( my pillow back was 18.5" x 22"). You do this to allow a little extra room for your zipper .

Now, take your back piece and cut in in half so you have two 18.5" x 11" half pieces

Leave your front piece intact :)

Press your half pieces toward the wrong side of the fabric along the 18 1/2 in. side.

(1.4 inch on one and 1 inch on the other)

*shown above*

Match the 1/4 inch pressed edge up close to the edge of your zipper and sew down the entire edge of the fabric using your zipper foot.

now, with your zipper attached to one side, match up the pressed 1in. fold with the edge of the zipper that is already sewn to the other "half piece" of fabric

Pin it in place very well

Flip your pinned fabric over and sew right along the edge of the other side of the zipper

(the zipper will be upside down)

You are cool, you just made a zipper with a flap (that's how you're going to hide it)

Now unzip it so the pull is somewhere inside flap, then cut the ends off both sides of your zipper

Change to your zig zag foot and sew a few stitched to hold the ends in place.

Be sure your flap is down when you do this!

Now, trim the back of your pillow (the one you just made) so it matches the 18 1/2" x 18 1/2" front

piece.

Then, place them on top of each other with Right Sides Together and use a plate of a bowl to trim the edges on each corner. (This way you avoid "dog ears" on your finished cushion)

Pin the entire pillow together all the way around and be sure to keep the zipper unzipped.

Sew around the entire pillow using a quarter inch seam allowance.

unzip and flip it inside out. Add your pillow form and you're done!

P.S. You can also fill in the corners of your pillow with stuffing to make them look extra full (it's what they do when you have them custom made)

Enjoy!

faces from the past

2011-08-15T04:48:00.000-07:00

Are there certain faces your kids make that make you particularly happy?

This is the one for me.

There are wide spread photos of women in my family making this face as babies.

Not only does it show their feisty nature, but it's kind of amazing how little things can travel through genes.

Floppy Flo Quilt

2011-08-11T04:10:00.000-07:00

Behold, one of my all-time favorite quilts.

Made by my Mother, of course

Yes, those are hand embroidered Raggedy Ann's.

She picked up the antique top already pieced and her friend suggested she embroider in the white squares, which she obviously did using a "Floppy Flo" book, and then she hand-quilted the thing!

She made another similar to it that actually has blue Andy's in-between the Ann's. My Sister has it (shaking my fist into the air) but she told me I can have this one when she die's (in 100 years) and I am going to cherish the crap out of this beauty. It's got some serious sentimental value considering my room was decorated in Raggedy Ann's when I was little.

Ain't nothin' raggedy about this quilt!

(I couldn't resist)

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-10T04:21:00.000-07:00

Ruffle Sleeve Top: Downeast Outfitters

Vest: Dillards

Denim: G. Star

Shoes: JMR

Bracelet: Michal Negrin

Red Lipstick: Russian Red by MAC

Did you know that MAC created that lipstick specifically for Madonna on her Blonde Ambition Tour in the 80's?

Maybe Blondes really do have more fun.

Undershirt: Modbod

Jacket: Dear Lizzie Boutique

Skirt: Express

Shoes: Gianni Bini (Victoriassecret.com)

Earrings: J. Brooks Jewelers

Most Important People

2011-08-09T04:30:00.001-07:00

"Give your child a compliment and a hug; say 'I love you' more: always express your thanks. Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Friends move away, children grow up, loved ones pass on. It's so easy to take others for granted, until that day when they're gone from our lives and we are left with feelings of 'what if' and 'if only'....

"Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey and share our love with friends and family. One day, each of us will run out of tomorrows. Let us not put off what is most important"

-Thomas S. Monson

President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Cutting Fabric on the Bias

2011-08-08T04:02:00.000-07:00

Cutting a binding on the bias allows you to bind around curved edges more easily since the fabric will stretch. I use it all the time on clothing and even used it on a quilt that had a scalloped border.

I learned this awesome technique at quilt group and thought I'd share.

Be sure to start with your fabric Right Side Out with the selvages at the top and bottom.

Amy Butler, Heather Bailey and Kaffe Fassett...

2011-08-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

You seriously do not want to miss this sale. Click the image above to start shopping!

San Luis Bispo, California

2011-08-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

I love where I live, I really do.

But when I am in California, I understand why there are so many songs written about it.

I truly LOVE it there.

Mix that with Family and a random wedding on the beach and it equals a seriously awesome weekend.

Including,

Alfie and his cousin, Denzi playing "dogs" on the beach for hours on end

Swinging on the swings in front of the ocean,

and eating Mint Chip flavored ice cream from the old fashioned candy shop that makes their own waffle cones.
*Sigh*

This was a trip I was really sad to come home from, but only until I started watching Shark Week. :)
Why do we torture ourselves?

Fetching Finds: Mirror Wall

2011-08-04T03:30:00.000-07:00

Does anyone every really finish decorating their home? I know I don't.

I take that back, When we lived in our first home, ( a town-home) after 2 years of living there, I finished decorating it. We put it up for sale immediately and moved. he he he

I've got a LOT more decorating to do in my current house, so it's nice to say that one more wall is finished.

My sister picked up this Mirror at the public auction for me for only 20 bucks. I wish you could feel how heavy it is. It could kill a man. was that inappropriate?

Really though, this thing is high quality and just my style, so I asked my husband to hang it in the bathroom, and set it on the floor just below where I had imagined it.

When I came home he had hung it on the wrong wall! Curse words!!

Now I had a really heavy mirror that was a pain to hang on a wall that was WAY too big for it.

I have to choose my battles, so I gathered some plates I had laying around, picked up a few from the local thrift store and even stole a few out of the kitchen cupboard. The mirror hangs directly behind the bathroom mirror and gives the room a whole new openness.

I admit, The result was better than the original plan. Good Job Steve!

Linking here

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-08-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

I always expect California to be HOT, but when you are on the beach in the evening it can get quite cold. I wished I had brought a sweater, but my hubby kindly gave me his :)

awww... he's still a gentlman

I did however remove it for this photo.

Feather Earrings: Lulu Lux (California)

Chambray Shirt: J.Crew

Cut off Jeans: American Eagle

Sandals: Miz Mooz from Nordstrom

While I was traveling, my sister sent me an email and told me to check out the new Amy Butler line. Have you seen these?

Holy Moly.

It's not out yet, but we should have some in our Online shop in October or November.

Keep your eyes peeled

Source: Fat Quarter Shop

Linking here

Park City

2011-07-29T05:10:00.000-07:00

We Spent last weekend in Park City, UT (think Sundance Film Festival).

It's only an hour away, yet it feels like a whole new world. We invited our good friends, the Kartchner's and Alfie was in heaven.

Plus, I always love an adult to talk to. I mean let's be real here I talk to a toddler and a baby all day everyday and most husband's don't talk as much as we'd like them to, do they? (Love you, Honey!)

Before our friends arrived, we were sitting at the pool, and Alfie looked over at me from his lounge chair and said "Mom, Could you do this everyday?"

It made me laugh, but also think. I really don't want to do this everyday. I've been traveling so much this summer, and who could complain? but what I want right now is a good month in a row where I get to stay home, and be bored and complain to my husband about it, to which he won't respond enthusiastically enough (see paragraph above).

It seems I'm alway looking for greener grass, but once I get there, I'd like to go back.

just a couple more months of craziness and then I can relax. Right?

Obsession

2011-07-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this new technique? I'm officially OBSESSED! My Sister-in-law's Mother was describing to me how she made this sickeningly awesome bag. She has made huge baskets with this technique as well. I want to marry this bag!

I'm going to figure this out, and then I'll post a tutorial.

Katy Perry Concert

2011-07-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

WOW- doesn't really do it justice. I must admit, I like Katy's songs, but wondered if her live vocals would really stand up to her recordings. I was blown away by her Mariah worthy runs. She was awesome live and as I expected gave a theatrical, colorful and of course, entertaining performance.

I would honestly travel to see her repeat on this tour.

Thanks to my great friend Leah, who just moved here from Austrailia for taking me!!

and look at the cute tote I picked up at the concert :)

Little Wallet

2011-07-25T04:25:00.000-07:00

I've taught several of my Fabric Flowers class at Sew Obsessed and am going to continue because people are loving it, but I'm ready for something new, so here is a picture of my newest class.

Sewn from Valeri Well's "Little Wallet" Pattern and I couldn't just leave it plain, so I'll teach two flower techniques for those who want to embellish.

If you can't make the class, we have the pattern available here. (We Sold Out!! So Sorry!)

The best part, it's only $3 and is super easy to make, it's the perfect project to teach a beginning sewer. I don't need a new wallet, so I've been using it to tote around stork scissors and needles while traveling, they fit perfectly :)

Date Night: Foreigner and Journey Concert

2011-07-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

My thoughtful husband knows that I love concerts and picked up some tickets to Journey and Foreigner.

Yes, He took out his headphones before we got there. He he he

It was a good thing too, because both bands were UNREAL live.

It's nice to hear some quality vocalists perform live.

There are too many singers that make me wonder how they got famous, you know?

Not these Guys,

Honestly, both bands had incredible lead singers (especially Journey) and musicians, none the less.

And If you love to people watch, this concert is like manna from heaven.

I'd definitely recommend it.

Passport Cover Tutorial

2011-07-21T03:39:00.000-07:00

Cut two 6 in. by 12 in. pieces of fabric.

with 1/4 in. seams, sew the rectangles right sides together leaving a small 3 in. opening in the bottom center.

Clip corners to eliminate bulk, careful not to cut stitching.

Turn cover right side out though the 3 inch opening.

Use a closed pair of scissors to push corners out from inside.

Press cover flat while tucking raw edges from the opening as you iron.

Top stitch 1/8 in. from edge around the entire rectangle.

Fold short ends in 2 in. on each side and press.

Top stitch around the outside of the entire cover again.

Leave insides of flaps open to insert your passport

Fold cover in half and press

Embellish as desired and insert passport

Now you have the cutest passport in the world, while you travel it :)