MySweetSunshine

LaLa Love

2011-01-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

Oh, how we love this little Lalaloopsy dolls! While the big dolls are a little top heavy, and are hard to play with, the mini's are just adorable and so much fun. Emily loves just about anything in minature, so the little mini dolls are perfect for her! A friend even made her a Crumbs Sugar Cookie purse as a Secret Santa present that she keeps all her mini dolls in.

This sweet little lounge set was my last set created in 2010!! What a perfect way to end the year. (Emily actually did end 2010 in this set - she wore it to bed New Year's Eve!!)

Watch for some new Lalaloopsy sets coming soon!! I have a Bea Spellsalot set that is just waiting for pictures!!!

Harry Potter Cuties!

2011-01-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

Another fun set!! This one is Emily's all time favorites! She's even worn it to school a few times. This was made back in the fall for our Florida trip. We got to spend an evening at a private party at Universal Studios during our trip, and Emily got alot of attention in this set. We had so much fun at Wizarding World - I hope to go back soon so we can spend the whole day at universal instead of just a few hours.

Once it warms up her in frigid Michiga, we'll go outside and take some better pictures and I'll eventually liest this set.

My Poor Neglected Blog

2011-01-23T07:29:00.000-08:00

So it's been awhile since I've posted to my blog! With the ease of posting on Facebook, I've forgotten to update here too. I'm going to try to get back into blogging and hope to post weekly - well, at least monthly.

2010 was a fun and busy year for us. Listings were a little scarce. I had quite a few custom orders, and I had my own Disney trip to sew for!!

One of my favorite design of 2010 was my Princess set. I used some of my favorite shabby chic florals, paired them with some pastel polkadots, and added rows and rows of frayed ruffles!

One of my most requested sets has been the Peace, Love, Minnie
skirt set my daughter asked me to make. The design was actually a re-creation of a tee I had in the late 90's. Emily loves anything with a Peace sign on it, and even tweens like the denim skirt.

I've made some variations on the design and have made Peace, Love, Horses; Peace, Love, Texas; and even Peace, Love, American Girl!

My friend Marah was kind enough to send me some pictures that she had taken of her daughter's Peace, Love, Texas. Aren't the pictures stunning!!

It's been awhile since I've made somethng for my Little Man, but with our trip to Disney, he got lots of customs to wear too!! This one was made to math Big Sister's Peace, Love, Minnie set.

Jessie Loves Woody!

2010-04-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

We can't wait for the latest Toy Story movie hits the Big Screen! Of course we needed a set to wear to the premiere, and this is perfect! I'll make a 4th of July tee later, and Emily can wear the skirt with that too! Nothing like Mix and Match pieces!

Of course Emily decided Chrissa needed a matching set too! She even found a little hat for her to wear ;)

Pictures were taken at The Westland Historical Village.

Can't forget about Chrissa!

Join us in Underland!

2010-03-25T10:26:00.001-07:00

We absolutely LOVED the new Alice in Wonderland movie! I knew I HAD to make a set featuring the new re-stylized characters! To say this set was a labor of love would be an understatement! I've had this in the planning stages for months. I could never decide on the perfect fabrics, and I bought at least 3 different lines of fabric before stumbling upon these gorgeous fabrics. I loved using denim in the design too.

And my most favorite thing of the whole set is without a doubt the adorable mini top hat! I knew I had to make a top hat to go with this set (especially since my model refuses to wear bows!!) So here it is! And you can find it on here on ebay too.

Another Sneak Peek!!

2010-03-03T14:52:00.000-08:00

I'm having so much fun designing this set!! Emily loves it and she insisted on a matching hat. Ummmm...I've never made a top hat and really had no idea how to. Luckily I found a handy dandy pattern and came up with this...

I can't wait to take some modeled pictures!!

Lovin' La Vida

2010-03-02T09:34:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love the Vida! It's versatile, comfy and just plain adorable. I sometimes agonize over fabric choices for it, then all of a sudden it all comes together and I love the outcome!! Use lots of different fabrics and fun trims to make it fun and funky, or just a few of your favorites for something sweet and simple. I've even figured out a pattern for 18 inch dolls!

I'll be honest though, when I first saw the Vida I didn't like it. I had to put my own spin on it to fall in love with it. It's now my "go to" pattern. Perfect for BIG appliques, and I just love it worn as a tunic with jeans. Awesome for layering and adorable with leggings and a tee. Ahhhh, how I love the Vida :)

I can't wait to get started on my newest Vida creation - I wonder what it will be??

Sneak Peek Time!

2010-02-28T08:03:00.000-08:00

We are so excited about the nee Alice movie!! I had to create a new custom for Em to wear to the movie, so here is a quick sneak peek. I hope to finish it tonight, and get pictures in the next day or so :)

Let's Dish

2010-02-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

DIY Dish that is.

The creators of YCMT (my favorite site, blog, resource!) has started a brand web show/site for everything from sewing, scrapbooking, kids projects, and more! Check out their Debut video, and stop by their new site DIY Dish for a chance to win a fabulous prize!!

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

I'm still trying to get back in the swing of things after the Holidays. The kids are back in school, and I guess it's time for me to get back to sewing ;) 2009 was a great year for me. My customers were Fabulous and very loyal. I hope 2010 is just as fun, and I'm hoping to knock out some super fabulous sets, for both boys and girls!! I've already got the first set of 2010 planned, now I just need to get going on it!! Here's to an AWESOME start to 2010!!

Homemade Holidays

2009-11-20T06:31:00.000-08:00

I'm doing it, - I'm having a Homemade Holiday!
~

I'm a big fan of homemade gifts. If it's a gift that the giver actually put work into, I tend to cherish it more than anything else. The value doesn't matter - knowing what went into it (usually oddles and oddles of LOVE) makes it all the more special. And I like giving homemade gifts, too. They're usually cheaper than buying some pre-packaged gift basket, and show a lot more thought than a gift card.

~
So what kinds of gifts can you make at home? It depends on the personality of your recipients, and on your own talents. Now, don't start saying you have no talents - we're all good at something. Here are some of the gifts I've made for Christmas in past years.

~
No Sew Blankets

This no-sew project is so simple you can get the kids involved. Both Emily and Matthew have a few of these blankets. One for their bed, a smaller one for the car, and at least one more they got as gifts when they were babies.

~
1.Buy two large pieces of fleece, cut to the length you want for the blanket or throw.

2. Lay one piece on top of the other so that all four sides line up.

3. For each side, cut fringe that is two inches wide and four inches deep.

4. Once the fringe is cut on all four sides, tie each strip on the top piece of fabric to the matching strip on the bottom with two knots each. This joins the two fabric pieces together, and creates a pretty blanket or throw.

~
Chocolate

OMG - Who doesn't LOVE chocolate (well, actually I know a few weird-o's who don't, but really how can you not love chocolate??) Here's an easy and YUMMY recipe for chocolate peppermint bark that was a huge hit last year:

~
1. Buy some good dark chocolate, either in bars or chips. Using a double boiler, melt the chocolate, and add in roughly 1 tsp of peppermint extract per bar of chocolate.

~
2. Stir well, and then pour it out onto a cookie sheet lined in parchment paper. You want it to be about 1/4" thick.

~
3. At this point, you can do one of two things - either add crushed peppermint candies sprinkled on top, or melt a small amount of white chocolate (the microwave works fine) and drizzle over the top.

~
4. Let the chocolate cool and harden overnight, and then break into chunks. Put it in pretty tins, add a ribbon, and you have a tasty gift!

For those Chocolate Haters, use white chocolate instead of the dark chocolate!! I think this is my favorite variation!

Photo Books/Scrapbook

These are great grandparent gifts. Get a pretty scrapbook and fill it with pictures of your kids from the last year. Every so often in the album, in place of a picture, insert a drawing from the kids, a poem about being a grandparent, or if your children are older, have them write a letter to their grandparents. Younger kids can add stickers to pictures, too. Your recipients will love looking at the pictures and showing them off to friends. (And if you're like me, you won't have to deal with the nagging about how you never give them pictures of the kids.)

These are just a few of the quick and easy homemade gifts I've made in the past. Each gift was very well received, and I enjoyed putting the work into each of them. If I can make gifts like these, anyone can. This year, my to-do list just keeps growing. I am saying it here and now - you all are my witnesses! I am giving EVERY person on my gift list a HOMEMADE gift! (Luckily CarlaC finally published her easy fits for adults so the guys on my list will actually like their homemade gifts too!!)

This year I am following a scarf along. And am giving at least one of the 3 scarves as a gift. The 2ND I am keeping for myself (I rarely sew for ME!!) and the third will be part of a GIVEAWAY I am having as part of my Cyber Monday Fun Day (check back for more info on this!!)

So, who's with me?? What will you be making and giving for Christmas this year?

Winter Wonderland Belle

2009-11-10T20:26:00.001-08:00

I think Belle is my favorite of the Disney Princesses. She's smart, confident, brave, and a little quirky. Not to mention a brunette. The brunette's have a soft spot in my heart ;) So needless to say I had a lot of fun creating this set.
~

Th fabric is Michael Miller's ginger blossom , but there's a twist - it's CORDUROY! I love the print and the fabric is sooooo soft! It's a light weight too. Emily actually loves this and was snuggling with the top after pictures. LOL! I had a little fun with the back and put varying shades of pink ruffles down the back. This set is so feminine and girly, without being too frilly.

Check out the listing HERE.

~
~

Sneak Peek

2009-11-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

It's almost time!! Winter is in the air already, the Holidays are around the corner, and The*Fairy*Godmothers are celebrating a Winter Wonderland Launch starting on Tuesday, Novemer 10th.

Here's a sneaky peeky at a set I'll be listing. The set is done, I'll be taking pictures tomorrow, and Emily actually loves this one ("photo shoots" always go better when she actually likes the set she's wearing!!)
~

One down, one to go...

Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-25T18:31:00.001-07:00

So we finally made it to the pumpkin patch. Just a few miles from our house a family has a pumpkin patch that has been in their family for generations. We've gone there for our pumpkins ever since we had Emily.

Matthew's first trip in 2006

This year 2009

The Hunt begins!!

Searching for the Perfect Pumpkin...

It's Soooo Good to be BAD!

2009-10-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be a part of this very Magical launch!!

I've had the images for this set drawn out for months just waiting for the perfect time to list it. A Magic Kingdom seemed like the perfect time, after all, no Magic Kingdom is complete without a few Villains!!

Click HERE to be taken to the listing!!

Search Boutique AMK to see all the Macical listings in the "A Magic Kingdom" launch!

It's Almost time!!

2009-09-27T17:13:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for the "Magic Kingdom" ebay launch!!

Not only will there be over 100 fabulous auctions to bid on, there's also the chance to win a weekend (2 days, 1 night) for 5 (2 adults, 2 kids, 1 baby under 2) at Disney!! Transportation and meals are NOT included.

The contest is easy, and so much fun!! The Highest Bidders on any and all of the Magic Kingdom listings will be entered into the contest. The Highest Bidder - bidder that has won the most Magic Kingdom listings - wins the weekend at Disney!! That's not all! The 2nd Highest Bidder - Bidder with the 2nd highest number of winning bids - gets a prize too!! A $75 Spa gift Certificate in the winners home town.

Only the high bidders (winners) of each auction will be entered into the drawings! There will be over 100 chances at an entry! So, starting October 1 search Boutique BMK and bid often, and bid to win!!

I'm Still Here!!

2009-09-18T06:47:00.000-07:00

I feel a bit neglectful of my blog. I've been busy (and blessed) with a few big orders and hard at work on a few new designs for 2 upcoming launches!! The launches are running the first week of October, and I plan to have a few listings up.

Servane (of THE MonaLisaBoutique) is hosting A Magic Kingdom launch from October 1-10. I and sooooo excited for this launch and have the perfect set for it!! Let's just say, no Magic Kingdom is complete without a few Villains!!

The BowFairies are hosting a Christmas launch the same week (2 weeks actually!!) and I jumped at the chance to join them. I'm working on a set fit for a Winter Princess to list for a "Fairy Merry Christmas".

Ribbon Trimmed Tiered twirl skirt.

2009-08-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick tutorial on how I make my super full twirl skirts and tops.

I make all my yoke/waistbands 1.5X the waist measurement. Then each tier is double the tier above it. So, if your daughter has a 20 inch waist, here are the measurements (for the above skirt each tier was 4inches wide, but you can make them whatever measurement top the length you want.) I had 3 tiers + the waistband/yoke:

waistband 8X30 (this will be folded in half lengthwise.)

tier1 4X60

tier2 4X120

tier3 4X240

I worked with 30X4 inch strips for this skirt, but for a patchwork I usually use 18inch strips.

Sew all your strips together to get your tiers (tier1 had two strips, tier2 had four and tier3 had eight)

I choose to use bias tape instead of adding a ruffle, but a ruffle would be cute too!!

Press your bias tape to get the creases out from it being folded.

I don't use the "proper technique" for attaching bias tape - I just sandwich the material in between it and stitch. Use what ever method woks best for you.
.

Using an edge stitch, stitch the length of your bias tape. There is a special foot that you can use for edge-stitching, but I have no idea where mine is, so I put my needle in the left position and I got the same close stitching.

.
Here's the edge-stitching when it's done.
.
.

Gather your now reaaaaaly long bottom tier so it is half it's original length and matches up to tier2. Pin - right sides together, and attach. Don't forget to finish your seam (like I did!!) and press the seam up.

If you are not using the ribbon trim, be sure to top stitch your tiers. I did not topstitch before I added the ribbon trim, but you could.

Pin your ribbon so it is even with the seam of the 2 tiers. I didn't put the ribbon over the gathers, it lays nicer if you don't. Stitch it along the length using an edge stitch, as close to an edge as you can. Turn it around and stitch the other edge of ribbon - take the pins out as you go this time, don't stitch over them. Your ribbon will lay much nicer if you take the pins out as you go.
~

Repeat with the next tiers.

A picture after I edge-stitched on both sides.

For the waistband, I fold the yoke in half lengthwise and press. I make a casing 1inch from the top and insert my elastic - secure it at one end, but don't pull it all the way through.

.
Gather your 3 tiers (that are now all together) so it is the same length as your waistband. Pin, attach and press the seam up - attach the ribbon the same as you did on the bottom tiers.Now, pull the elastic through to the end of the waistband and stitch to secure it. Pin your side seams (right sides together) and stitch the seam. Press your seam, and all done!!

Instead of attaching this to a waistband for a skirt, you can attach it to a bodice and have a full twirl top/dress too!
Here are a few things I've made using these directions...

.
.
.

Frightfully Fun!!

2009-08-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

I just love how this set turned out - and Emily does too!! She loves everything about this set - from her messy pig-tails to the funky arm and leg warmers, she had fun modeling this set! And of course, it has a matching doll set ;)

2009-08-14T14:06:00.000-07:00

Who's ready for a Girls Night Out?? What's that you say? No babysitter, you're in your jammies, and you've still got too much to do tonight??? No problem, let's have a VIRTUAL Girls Night Out!!

Ann from Ann Again...and Again is hosting another VGNO, get your blog over there and join in the fun!!

Time For A Party Game!

To play "Dear Diary" fill-in the blanks using the chart below. (Now, this game will hint at your age.) Get ready!

Dear Diary,My best friend (a)______ and I went shopping for (b)______. We wanted to show them off when we went to hang out at the (c)______. You won't BELIEVE who we saw at the mall. (d)______! We screamed so loud they had to call Security. It was the best day ever!

Now, fill-in the blanks with the time-table of the year you entered High School.

Entered High School:

1975-1979 (a) Donna

1980-1983 (a) Tiffany

1984-1988 (a) Claire

1989-1993 (a) Jennifer

1994-1996 (a) Alanis

Entered High School:

1975-1979 (b) Bell Bottoms

1980-1983 (b) Argyle Sweater

1984-1988 (b) Neon Leggings

1989-1993 (b) Black Rubber Bracelets

1994-1996 (b) $200 Ripped Jeans

Entered High School:

1975-1979 (c) Roller Rink

1980-1983 (c) Arcade

1984-1988 (c) Food Court

1989-1993 (c) Multi-Plex

1994-1996 (c) Skate Park

Entered High School:

1975-1979 (d) John Travolta

1980-1983 (d) Mel Gibson

1984-1988 (d) Tom Cruise

1989-1993 (d) Brad Pitt

1994-1996 (d) Keanu Reeves

Here's my Dear diary entry ;)

Dear Diary, My best friend Claire and I went shopping for neon leggings. We wanted to show them off when we went to hang out at the Food Court. You won't BELIEVE who we saw at the mall. Tom Cruise! We screamed so loud they had to call Security. It was the best day ever!

Sneak Peeks

2009-08-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

A few Sneak Peeks of some Nightmare-ish fun!! Come back for the "Reveal" on Monday, listing on Tuesday.

A Vida for your AG dolls...

Something for the Boys!!

And last, but not least...

2009-08-02T17:25:00.001-07:00

Coming Soon!!

2009-07-18T11:15:00.001-07:00

Quick Vida Tutorial - I'll add pictures tonight. (Photobucket is giving me fits)

Trace all pattern pieces - don't forget to add for your seam allowance (you can tape 2 pencils together for a quick way to get your extra seam allowance) Itape my pattern pieces to a window and trace them that way onto regular paper - easy and no extra supplies are needed.

The trickiest part for me was cutting out the side panels. I made my side pieces out of 1 fabric. Fold your fabric right sides together and cut out your side panels. You should now have 2 mirror image side panels. Repeat this step for the ramaining 2. If you want to use 2 different fabrics for your side panels, cut them out 1 at a time (or layer your 2 different fabrics) you will need to flip your pattern so you get the mirror image. So cut 2 pieces with the pattern face up and 2 pieces with the pattern face down.

Lets get started sewing!

If you are going to applique, do it before you start putting the Vida together.

Pin the bottom of your front bodice to the (top of) middle front piece right sides together. Stitch and finish your seam, press the seam up and topstitch. (You can add ribbon or ric-rac now if you want it)

Pin the top of your bottom front piece to the bottom of the middle front piece right side together. (If you want to add a ruffle sandwch it between the 2 pieces). Stitch and finish your seam, press the seam up and topstitch. Your front piece is done!

Repeat the above steps for the back.

Take your side panel and pin it to the coordinating front side right sides together. Stitch and finish your seam, press seam to the side and topstitch (don't press it towards the front) Repeat for the remaining 3 side panels.

Even up your hem if needed, and finish the hem using your favorite method - bias tape, ruffle, trim, etc. You're almost done!!

Press the strap piece right sides together, stitch down the length and one end. Trim the corner, and turn the strap rightside out - repeat for the other strap. Press both straps and topstitch if desired. Set aside.

Pin your bodice lining pieces together at the sides - right sides together. Stitch and finish the seam, press open. Eithe hem or used a rolled hem on the bottom of the lining. Here comes the fun part!

Iron on a little bit of interfacing at the V in on the back of the bodice and whereve your buttonholes will be. Pin your straps to your bodice - depending on where you want your buttons - front or back. Make sure you raw edgs meet up. The straps will hang down between your bodice and the lining. Pin your bodice lining to the bodice - right sides together. Stitch all the way around the bodice. Snip your corners, (I like to make small snips around the curve too. Be careful not to cut through your stitches.) Turn the bodice right side out and press.

Create a casing by stitching an inch down (or less depending on your elastic) from the topstitching of your middle panel. (From side seam to side seam) Insert your elastic and secure at the side seams - repeat on the other side. Make your buttonholes and add your buttons to the straps. TADA!! Your Vida is done!!

The side panel, lining and casing will make more sense after I add the pictures!

I've Been Featured!!

2009-07-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks Cree!!

I've been featured on the boutique website ThisisBoutique! Thanks so much!!

Check out the feature HERE!!

Tickled Pink!

2009-07-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of The*Fairy*Godmothers Tickled Pink ebay launch.

I have quite a few things listed - well, quite a few for me ;) This one has to be my favorite though.

Emily has um, well become a custom hater. I know, I cried too. ;) When she saw the top of this set she immediately said "I don't like it!!" Then she tried it on, looked in the mirror and said "I LOVE it!!" Amazingly she still liked it a few days later when she tried on the skirt too! She even requested a matching set for her doll too. What's a Mom to do?! Make the matchin doll set, of course! A historic park with victorian homes, bridges, a creek, and a lovely gazebo near us is the beautiful backdrop for the pictures, and I'm soooo happy with how they all turned out!

2009-07-07T20:31:00.001-07:00

2 more Tickled Pink listings. One I made and one I had made custom just to match this set.

What princess wouldn't love this twirl set for their little friend? I'm always surprised by how fast the doll clothes go together! I always think they are going to be hard since they are so small, but, really they are easy-peasy!

This little hat is adorable!! It was made by an etsy designer and it is just too cute for words!! It's made entirely of paper that's been treated to so it's surprisingly sturdy. I'm sad to let it go.

2009-07-07T20:24:00.000-07:00

This was a fun set to make. I love the bold colors - they make it a little bit funky without being too out there. I saw my "model" twice today and she was still wearing this set - even though we took pictures yesterday ;) I think I got her stamp of approval!

I'm Tickled Pink!!

2009-06-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

The*Fairy*Godmothers are celebrating our 1st Anniversary with a special Guest launch! We are lucky to be joined by some very talented designers! Come join the ebay celebration July 7th-14th!

Emily E. 2nd Grader!!

2009-06-13T06:44:00.000-07:00

*Sigh* she's officially a 2nd grader now!! She was so nervous about first grade. Mrs. Scott was new to her school and she just didn't know what to expect. Her first weeks were rough. First grade was a whole different world, and alot was expected of these first graders. Homework, EVERY night, reading EVERY night, and math packets EVERY night!! EEK!! She was missing her Kindergarten days full of Discovery Areas (houskeeping, blocks, library, etc.) morning and afternoon snack and recess. She soon discovered it wasn't too different, and that there was alot about 1st grade that she loved - Writer's work shop, Accelerated reading, Flat Stanley, and hatching baby chicks!! Of course, she LOVES Mrs. Scott now, and is sad she won't be her teacher next year. We took a few pictures after her last day of school. That is her BF Alyssa, and it's now a tradition to get a picture taken with her - she has one from her last day of Kindergarten too.

Second Grade, Here We Come!!!

My Baby Girl is a Brownie!!

2009-06-09T20:37:00.000-07:00

My Little Girl is growing up. She bridged over to Brownies last week *snif* She's excited about being a Brownie next year and is looking forward to going to camp this summer with the troops' Cookie sales money!! It's only 1 night - but it's still camp!!

A Quick Applique Tutorial

2009-06-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

I've had a few questions on how I applique. I don't have an embroidery machine, I use my trusty Kenmore sewing machine when I applique. It's a multi-step process.

Choose your picture/design. Print it out or trace it. Trace each piece of the picture onto a fusible web (I use HeatnBond Lite) Pay attention to how you want to layer your pieces. Trace pieces that will be the base pieces a little bigger so the layers overlap. (Can you tell who it's going to be yet?)

Choose your fabrics for your applique, roughly cut out each piece and iron it onto the wrong side of your fabric.

Cut out your applique pieces. Use a washable pen or pencil and trace the face, or any detail work you'll need markings for. You can either use a light box or a window to do this. Start layering your pieces, like a puzzle.

Poor Princess is looking a little cross-eyed!!

Don't forget to put a stabilizer onto the back of your fabric. I backed almost the entire piece of background fabric for this applique. If the stabilizer starts to come off while you are stitching (it will) just iron it on again.

Start appliqueing!! I use a zig zag stitch. For the outside lines, I usually have my machine width set at 3 and it's Length set at .4. For inside detail lines and Facial features stitch length and width will vary - Her mouth I had my Width at 2 and Length at .4

For straight lines, you can let the machine feed the fabric through, but for curves, gently guide your fabric. If you have to stop and make a tight turn, put your needle down and pivot the fabric a little at a time. I try to get the outside edge of my stitching as close to the edge of the applique fabric as possible. (I took the foot off for the picture)

Almost Done! Back - you can see the stabilizer, I already tore off the excess that was outside the applique.

I finished Cindy by stitching her eyelashess by hand (literally ;) )

BTW - I think Cinderella is one of the harder Princess to applique!! I can never get her eyes just right!!

My First award! Thanks so Much!!

2009-06-01T10:36:00.001-07:00

Thank you SO Much Kris!!

You were sooo sweet to pick me!! I now have to name seven things that I love and then pass it on to seven other bloggers....so here we go!
Seven things I love:

1) My Children

2) My Husband

3) My Family

4) Good Friends

5) Sewing

6) The Sound of my kids laughing

7) My life

And now to pass it on to seven other bloggers:

1) Shamiki at k.i.d.Kreations

2) Jen at SchmoodlesBoutique

3) Kim at SewSimpleMom

4) Deann at KaraJes*Designs

5) Carla at The Scienticifc Seamstress

6) Lisa at Lisa's Workshop

7) Jennifer at Sis Boom Daydreams

Once again, thanks goes out to Kris of Hands, House and Heart Full for this award....congratulations ladies...now pass it on!!

Virtual Girls Night Out!!

2009-05-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

Everyone ready for a Girls Night Out? What's that?! No Babysitter?! You're already in your jammies?! No problem Ann is hosting her VGNO again!!

Grab a drink, turn on some music, and have some Blogging fun!! And since it's not a VGNO without a party game...

"Modern Barbie"

Use the chart to find which Barbie you are. Use the letter of your first name.

A - D = Sunscreen Barbie

E - H = Lactose Intolerate Barbie

I - L = Migraine Barbie

M - P = Blogger Barbie

Q - T = Mini Van Barbie

U - Z = Bi-Polar Barbie

Now, which Barbie are you?

Super Full Ultra Twirly Stripwork

2009-05-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

~ Okey Dokey...Double Layer Stripwork twirl skirt. (I wiil try to take and add pictures the next time I make one!)

~ You first need to determine the length you want your skirt. Let's say we want our skirt 14" long. Your yoke (waistband) is 4" (you'll fold it in half lengthwise to make a 2" waistband), your ruffle is 4 (2" finished) and your stripwork strips will be 10 inches long.

~ I make my waistbands 1 1/2 the actual waist measurement. For a 22" waist the waist band would be 33 inches wide. (So the cutting measurement for our skirt would be 33"X4")

~ The width of your strips is really personal preference, and I usually make my strips a little smaller for the samller sizes.

~ We'll make our strips 4"X10. Choose 4 coordinating fabrics, and cut out 6 strips for each pattern. You'll have 24 strips. After I cut my fabrics I layer my strips in the order I want to sew them. Your top layer when all sewn toether will be around 84" long. Cut 2 pieces of your underskirt fabric 10"X42".

~ For ruffles, I double the skirt measurement, so you would need 4 4"X42" (or 2"X42" if you want to hem your ruffle)

~ Your cut pieces (for a 14" inch skirt with a 22" waist)

Waistband - 33"X4"

Stripwork layer - 24 4"X10" strips

Underskirt - 2 pieces 42"X10

Ruffle - 4 pieces 4"X42"

*** Putting it together ***

~ Waistband ~

Fold your waistband in half lengthwise and press. Sew the side seam (right sides together). Press seam to one side. Sew a casing 1" from the top of the waistband for the casing - leave a 2 inch opening near the seam for the elastic to go in. Set aside.

~ Outer Stripwork Layer ~

Sew yours strips together (long way don't forget to finish or serge all of your seams.) When all of you strips are sewn together, PRESS ALL THE SEAMS IN THE SAME DIRCTION. I topstitch each of my strips, but that's optional.

You can either turn your hem under, use bias tape or add a ruffle to finish the hem on your top layer. I like to use a contrasting/coordinating bias tape. (You'll need 2 packages of bias tape) Set aside.

~ Take your underskirt fabric - right sides together - and sew one of the side seams. Check and make sure you top layer, and underskirt layer are the same width and length. Trim it up if you need to. Sew the second side seam of your underskirt after you check the measurement. Sew the side seam on the top stripwork layer too. (Don't forget to press that last seam on the top layer.)

~ RUFFLE ~

Sew your strips together (end to end, right sides together) and THEN press your looooong ruffle strip in half. By doing it this way, the seams will be on the inside of the ruffle and hidden.

I use a ruffler to ruffle, I run a basting stitch to keep the fabric in place then I ruffle the strip.

Pin and sew your finished ruffle to the right side of the bottom of your underskirt fabric, press the seam to the underskirt and topstitch.

~ GATHERING THE SKIRT ~

I gather my underskirt and stripwork layer together at the same time. Place the underskirt under the top layer, and pin the 2 layers in place. Run your basting stitches ( I run 2 on this skirt) along the top of the skirt. Pull to gather to fit your waist band (33 inches) I only use the lowest basting stitch to gather - the other one is just to keep the layers together.

Take your waist band and pin it (right sides together!!) to your 2 skirt layers - I like my seam to be a side seam. Sew and attatch so your basting stitches don't show (Don't forget to adjust your machine's setting so it's not another basting stitch!!) Finish for serge the seam. Press the seam up towards the top of your waistband, and topstitch.

Insert your elastic (I usually cut my elastic for the waistband 2 inches shorter than the waist measurement), close the seam, and VIOLA!! You have a double layer stripwork skirt!!

Wordless Wednesday - Waiting for Daddy 2005

2009-05-20T15:44:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother'sDay!!

2009-05-10T09:59:00.001-07:00

Park City Quilt Festival

2009-04-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

First off, I am in no way a quilter! When I saw all of the fabulous quilts bloggers are posting I started dreaming of what could be...

I did make some simple Raggie Quilts over the Holiday season for gifts, and everyone loved them. I am looking for the perfect fabric combination before I take the plunge and make myself one. Here is my favorite of the 6 I made!!

(The cutie in the 1st picture is my neice Katie.)

And this one was my first one before it was washed and raggie.

And the winner is...

2009-04-13T07:02:00.000-07:00

Brandi!!

Brandi said "How fun!! This is really cute and looks very comfy." (Random.org picked the number 8.)

Spring Fling Giveaway!!

2009-04-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

Starting today you can enter to win a SURPRISE 2 piece lounge set. I get to pick the theme. ;) I'll ask the winner some questions and create a fun 2 piece lounge set for a very lucky little girl or boy!

So here's how to get your entry in!! 3 easy ways to enter. Do one, or all 3!!

1. Post a comment on my blog for 1 entry.

2. Blog and post a link (to my blog) on your blog or on Facebook page for 1 entry. Let me know in the comments and leave a link to your blog.

3. Bid on my current ebay listing for 2 entries (Reserve is set at $120 ;) ) Let me know you ebay ID so your get your extra entries!!

I'll draw 1 lucky winner on Wednesday, April 8th.

Good Luck, and Have Fun!!

Please leave your email address with your comment, so I know how to contact the winner!!

Spring Pictures!!

2009-04-01T17:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Emily had her pictures taken at school. She refused all of the sets I have made for her, didn't want a new set made, but found an adorable dress at (of all places!!) Target. Of course they didn't have her size. But since she is such a Skinny Minnie, she was able to wear the 4. It was a little short so we added some super cute white capris, and she insited on the little cardigan. I bribed her to wear the tiny bow (and threatened her with MUCH bigger bows) and I am THRILLED with the pictures!! Bob was amazed that these were SCHOOL pictures. LOL!

Matthew had his pictures taken today at his pre-school using the same background. All the teachers and the helpers said he did a FANTASTIC job, so I'm crossing my fingers tha this turn out too!!

The Steps

2009-03-31T18:37:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun set to make!! I actually made the Stepmother applique for a different set, but loved how she turned out so I decided she needed her own set. ;) This was my first european pattern too. It was much easier than I had expected!! I just listed this on ebay this afternoon. Search TFG Boutique on ebay for this set and the fabulous jewels made by Kelly of Tinkerbells*Tiny*Treasures.

Click here to be taken to the listing!!

Toothless Grin!

2009-03-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

The Tooth Fairy made a trip to our house recently! Emily lost her first tooth and couldn't have been happier! Of course, Daddy was out of town when it finally fell out, so she wrote a very nice note to the Fairy and asked her if she could come back in 2 days so her Daddy could see the tooth too. Of course that was a little too long for Matthew to keep his hands off, and he lost the tooth before Daddy could see it. We think the Tooth Fairy must have found the lost tooth though, because she still left Emily $5.

Waiting for Spring!!

2009-03-09T09:55:00.000-07:00

I gave the blog a new spring look - now we're just waiting for the weather to catch up! In anticipation of Spring I made a few new sets. March is National Reading Month, so the storybook themes seemed perfect to kick off the season!!

The Very Hungry Caterpillar!

CPSIA Blog In - Please Read

2009-01-28T12:06:00.000-08:00

I would like to do my part today to spread the word about the CPSIA. I am concerned about this new law for so many reasons including the fact that I will have to close my store if this law is not changed. So I am joining in the countless other Etsians to try to inform my readers about this law and encourage you to act.
The text below was written by Gretchen and with her permission I am sharing it with you.

As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbeshttp://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Lawhttp://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
>
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react

2009-01-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

TheFairyGodmothers are Having a Yard Sale!!

2009-01-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to be starting the New Year off with a Cleaning Closets/Yard Sale!! Here are 2 new sets that I have listed. Watch for some resells too!! Lots of great stuff listed by all of The*Fairy*Godmothers! Search TFG boutique for all of the great finds!

Naughty or Nice?

2008-12-11T17:35:00.000-08:00

We went to see The Big Man Himself tonight! (That's Santa, of course!!) Mommy forgot her camera - but I bribed the kiddos, with candy canes, to let me take some pictures when we got home. Matthew loves taking pictures with his Big Sis, but Emily needs the candy canes!!

Happy Birthday!!

2008-11-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Guess who turned 3!!!! Happy Birthday My Little Man!!

2008-11-22T12:01:00.000-08:00

Mr. Grinch!! I'm so happy with how this turned out! The bows are perfect with it, and best of all - Emily likes it!! She even helped make a Grinchy necklace to go with it. Listed on ebay - $100 reserve!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170281249450

Black Friday Fun!!

2008-11-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

Who wants to battle the crowds on Black Friday?! Check out Kandy Kisses Boutique for some fabulous Black Friday deals, and amazing giveaways!! Don't miss the fun!

http://kandykissesboutique.typepad.com/

Smile, Please!

2008-11-11T16:32:00.001-08:00

Well, My SIL's and myself tried to get all 6 kiddos together for a picture for Amma. Surprisingly, the 2 little ones cooperated and were happy to smile for the camera. Emily refused to flash a smile. And the boys - well the boys had fun.

I was able to play around and get a few shots of Jilli and Emily. They didn't turn out as I had hoped (camera was on the wrong setting!) but you can tell how much the girls love each other.

A First Time For Everything!!

2008-11-11T08:26:00.001-08:00

Since Emily is in school all day and Matthew is too most days, I thought I'd give this blog thing a try! (there's a first time for everything!!) It'll be an easy way to keep everyone up on our comings and goings and my latest projects! Now to figure out how to post a picture...Whoohoo!! It worked!! :D

My*Sweet*Sunshine

LaLa Love

Harry Potter Cuties!

My Poor Neglected Blog

Jessie Loves Woody!

Join us in Underland!

Another Sneak Peek!!

Lovin' La Vida

Sneak Peek Time!

Let's Dish

Happy New Year!!

Homemade Holidays

Winter Wonderland Belle

Sneak Peek

Pumpkin Patch 2009

It's Soooo Good to be BAD!

It's Almost time!!

I'm Still Here!!

Ribbon Trimmed Tiered twirl skirt.

Frightfully Fun!!

Sneak Peeks

I've Been Featured!!

Tickled Pink!

I'm Tickled Pink!!

Emily E. 2nd Grader!!

My Baby Girl is a Brownie!!

A Quick Applique Tutorial

My First award! Thanks so Much!!

Virtual Girls Night Out!!

Super Full Ultra Twirly Stripwork

Wordless Wednesday - Waiting for Daddy 2005

Happy Mother'sDay!!

Park City Quilt Festival

And the winner is...

Spring Fling Giveaway!!

Spring Pictures!!

The Steps

Toothless Grin!

Waiting for Spring!!

CPSIA Blog In - Please Read

The*Fairy*Godmothers are Having a Yard Sale!!

Naughty or Nice?

Happy Birthday!!

Black Friday Fun!!

Smile, Please!

A First Time For Everything!!

MySweetSunshine

TheFairyGodmothers are Having a Yard Sale!!