Sew Darn Cute

Barbie Birthday, Free template

2012-01-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

Yes I have been a major slacker. It was the Holidays, and I got an iphone... need I say more?

I have a million things that I need to catch up on, but I will talk about what I am currently working on, I am planning Addie's 5th Birthday party, and thought I would share a free template you can use if you want to have a Barbie birthday! I made the Barbie invitation using my Memory Mixer software.

Also How cute is this Birthday Banner?

Go here for a free printable!

Here are a few good barbie silhouettes. You can download them and use the trace tool on your Silhouette to make cupcake toppers!

More Barbie Birthday goodies to come!

lemon ruffle cake

2011-11-13T13:37:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun making and decorating my moms birthday cake! My first ruffle cake, which for my first I am okay with the imperfections!

I started with 2 cake mixes, one yellow and one white. I like to doctor up my cake mixes to make them here is the recipe for my doctored up Lemon Cake!

1 yellow or white cake mix

4 eggs

1/2 Cup water

1/3 Cup oil

1 Cup Sour Cream

1 package of Lemon Instant Pudding

Combine ingredients and Bake according to the directions on the cake box. I used tow 8-inch rounds for each cake. Since I did one yellow cake and one white so 4 layer the cake would look striped when we cut into it. When making the White cake mix, I used only the egg whites.

For filling between the cake's layers I used Lemon Curd. I discovered a new way to make it so it doesn't need to be strained and ends up perfectly smooth!

4 TBS unsalted butter

3/4 Cup Sugar

3 large eggs

1/3 Cup FRESH Lemon Juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

Combine sugar and butter in a glass bowl, and beat until fluffy. Then beat in the eggs. Add the lemon juice. Once it is all combined, pour into your stove-top pan and heat on low-medium until it gets creamy and thick. Be sure to CONSTANTLY stir the curd and don't let it boil! You can freeze or store it in the refrigerator.

For the frosting I wanted something light, but still lemon flavored. Here is the recipe!

1 pint of Heavy Whipping Cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 package of Instant Lemon Pudding

Use your hand mixer to beat until it gets thick enough to pipe or spread, if it is too thick you can add a teaspoon or two of milk until it gets to your desired consistency. note* I should have doubled this recipe to make the ruffles work better.

Another First...

2011-11-12T22:59:00.000-08:00

I watched Breakfast at Tiffany's for the first time this weekend with my sisters. Such a great movie. I love Audrey.

This is what we did while we watched the beautiful Audrey and her Cat. Kind of creepy photo, we could hardly talk or smile once the facial dried!

Ever heard of Redmond Clay? It makes an AMAZING mask. Pulls all the toxins and yucks out of your skin, and makes it so smooth. Read more about Redmond Clay here. I mixed the dry clay with water until it was a muddy consistency, then smothered it on and left it until it was dry! Do this about once a month, and you can store the leftovers in a airtight container, if it drys out, add more water! I got mine at Good Earth in the bulk section. It is less expensive to buy it in the bag than premixed in a container.

A Big First for me!

2011-11-12T14:07:00.000-08:00

Today is a big day, my first time being a Guest Blogger! WOOT WOOT!

Check it out here!

Check out Amanda's etsy shop while you are there, adorable accessories for girls!

Thanks for Having me Amanda!

Fifty is Nifty

2011-11-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

My amazing mom turned fifty this week. My sisters, Dad, and I decided to throw her a big surprise party! We plotted and planned for weeks, trying to gather emails, make decorations, and order food.

The cake was my first ruffle cake! I will post more details about the cake soon!

We decided that doing a black theme was just too dreary! So we thought of something more cheery and bright and landed on lemons and limes!

We had mini Vanilla Cupcakes from Sweet Tooth Fairy. YUMMO. Best Vanilla Cupcakes ever.

We also had Coconut and Pistachio Macaroons from the Sweet Tooth Fairy. If you haven't ever tried a french macaroon, you must! They are light and fluffy and melt in your mouth.

Several of my aunts made gooey rice crispy treats. I love sticky melted marshmallows!

We got Citrus flavored and colored candies, and had them all over the table. Adding jars of colored candy helps decorate your party and adds an extra treat for your guests, especially if you have little kids! Using real lemons and limes in vases is a great way to decorate, inexpensive and pretty!

With the help of my Grandpa we gathered old photos of my mom and scanned them so we could make them black and white and order prints online. We used clothes pins and twine to hang them along the back wall for everyone to see.

Lemon water and Lemonade to drink, with grey striped paper straws. (which I found on Amazon for a great deal!) My sister printed out the cute labels using this free printable.

We used my silhouette machine to make the Happy Birthday Sign that we hung on the front of the table and the round paper streamers that were hanging behind the table. We cut our 150 scalloped circles and I sewed them together on my sewing machine!

Happy Birthday Mom! I love you!

Tea Party Dress

2011-10-27T23:53:00.000-07:00

Addie was invited to her friend Brinley's Princess Tea Party last week, and so I made her a super frilly outfit to wear for the occasion. She calls it her shake it up Chicago Dress... because it looks like a lace dress from target that was hanging by a picture of the girls from that show. Random....

Anyway the top is Stretch Lace and Ivory knit, and some plum colored knit ruffle pants for modest twirling! Brin's mom Stephanie (Giovanna Lou Photography) took these AMAZING pictures at the party. You can go HERE to see more of the party and her fabulous photography.

Boise Bus!

2011-10-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

Remember THIS blanket I made for my husband? Well I had some scraps, and decided we needed to show a little more spirit for our Boise State Broncos! (if that is possible!)

Nothing like a Bronco Bunting to get you in the mood for the big game!

Gotta love Football season!

Fluffy Ruffle Skirts

2011-10-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have been a bit of a busy bee, although you wouldn't guess that if you looked at my blog lately! I had a brief obsession with Friday Night Lights, which I have now finished so back to blogging! (BTW if you haven't ever watched FNL, I HIGHLY recommend it! Its on Netflix!)

The girls festive Halloween outfits from the last 2 years bit the dust, so it was time for some new ones! I have been wanting to make some fluffy ruffle skirts and could just imagine how cute they would be in Orange and Black!

I found a great PDF pattern on Etsy that you can use to make your own skirt, by

Little Lizard King the best part is that it has a wide range of sizes. 6 months to 8 years!

I have tried making ruffle skirts before and they were kind of a pain. Trying to line up and make sure they were all straight... I knew there had to be a better way! I was going to share a tutorial on how I did it this time around but Christine at from and igloo fun things to make and do already did! Her skirt only has 2 ruffles, I just reconfigured the measurements for 5 ruffles!

Making the skirt this way, I could hide all the raw edges, and it helped me keep the ruffles in line!

I have been dying to break out my Silhouette SD, and these shirts were the perfect first project! And confession... I didn't use their fabric interfacing. I just had some heat N bond in my craft closet so I used that! So even though they would like you to purchase their fabric interfacing... you don't HAVE to! I downloaded the witch from their store for $.99. For the scalloped circle I found an image online, uploaded it to the silhouette software and used their trace tool to make the cut out!

These two crack me up... they did this pose all on their own. They love taking pictures!

Happy Halloween!!!!

Lacey School Days

2011-09-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

My Liza Belle started preschool, and being the girly girl that she is, she needed some frills and Lace for her first day of school.

I used my favorite go-to pattern... The Sienna Dress, which is funny because over at Project Run and Play the challenge this week is the Sienna Dress Remix!

She was pretty excited!

The top is knit, with lace ruffles and a lace bib. The bottom is a basic quilters cotton. The pants are similar to these ones and these ones. My girls love ruffle pants, about the only pants I can get them to wear!

Of course Big sis has one to match!

Nora's Country Frock

2011-09-07T21:25:00.001-07:00

I have been working on a few fall thing for my girls, some back to school clothes and a few new dresses. Little Nora didn't really need anything else, but I didn't want her to feel left out so I made her a little outfit to match her sisters (which I will share soon!)

I used one of her dresses and THIS pattern to make this dress. I used her dress to re-size the pattern. It is a peasant style dress, I just didn't ad elastic to the sleeves.

And of course she needed a headband to match!

Having Girls can be so much fun.

Crib Makeover!

2011-08-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

I am still working on a few things for the nursery, but her crib is finished! I Love how it turned out.

I just recovered a crib bumper from Ikea. (I bought it when we had two babies in cribs. I am glad I saved it!)

If you decide to paint a crib, make sure you get Paint with Zero VOC. Then you don't have to worry about it being toxic for the baby if they decided to chew on it! Most brands make it, and the hardware store can match it to any color for you!

I used THIS tutorial for the Sheet. (Easy way to spruce up your old crib bedding, sheets are so easy to make!)

The Fabric for the bumper and sheet is Heather Bailey. I had to order it from her shop. Most fabric stores don't carry it anymore. I got the pink stripes at FABRIC.com, my favorite online fabric store.

Homemade Dill Pickles

2011-08-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

I grew up in a home where we canned everything. I wasn't always a fan of the process, but I am a fan of the results. My FAVORITE thing to can, is Pickles. Yup, I know I can go pick up a jar of kosher dills at the supermarket, but if you have ever tried home canned Dill pickles, you will never buy store bought pickles again!

Here is what you need:

Pickling Cucumbers

Fresh Peeled Garlic

Dill

Pickling Salt

Vinegar

Water

Pickling Cukes are different from regular cucumbers. Check your local fruit stand or farmers market to find them. They are smaller, and have thinner skin than regular cucumbers.

Scrub those cucumbers really good.

Mix up the Brine and get it boiling while you clean your cucumbers. The recipe is:

12 Tbs pickling salt

3 Cups Vinegar

8 Cups Water

(this will fill about 6 quarts, and you need about 1 lug of cucumbers or 1/4 a bushel for 6 quarts)

Once all your cucumbers are nice and clean, fill each jar with 1 sprig of dill (they look kinda creepy... like spiders) and 1 clove of peeled garlic. I like to buy the pre-peeled garlic at costco. You can used Fresh or Dried Dill. Fresh is easier to work with.

Then stuff those Jars. Its like a puzzle trying to fit them in. I like to use WIDE MOUTH jars, it is easier to fit the cucumbers in them. Make sure that they aren't sticking out the top at all or your lids wont seal.

Then pour in the brine, and put the lids on. I don't boil the lids since I will be processing them.

Process the pickles for 15 min. (Processing means to put them in hot water, bring it to a boil, then set the timer for 15 min.)

Carefully remove the jars to cool on a towel, then store them. They will be ready to eat in about 3 months! YUM!

We paid 10.00 for 1/2 a bushel, and that made 11 quarts. With the dill, and other ingredients it ended up being about 1.50 a jar. Cheaper than the store, and they taste better! For 1/2 a bushel we doubled the brine recipe.

Coffee Filter Wreath

2011-08-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

I was in need of a new wreath for our front door, since I have had an egg wreath on the door since Easter... My girlfriend had a beautiful wreath on her door, and when I asked where she got it, she said a friend made it out of coffee filters! So I headed to the dollar store and picked up some brown coffee filters and a wreath.

Total cost of project... about $4.00. I used 12 mini glue sticks, 250 brown coffee filters, and burnt the heck out of my fingers, but I got this beautiful wreath to show for it.

I was going to make a tutorial, but I found a few great ones online, so there was no need. Go HERE, or HERE.

Nora's Blessing Dress

2011-08-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

I had a very difficult time with this dress. I wasn't motivated to make it, then once I did, it was soooo ugly and horrible I was ready to shred it and go buy one. But then My husband reminded me that in most families, the first child gets everything, the second gets some things, and the third usually gets the leftovers? Well I didn't want to have that happen with her blessing dress. So I unpicked the ugly one, got out some more fabric and went to work. I am so glad I did, it turned out perfect.

I kept it pretty simple, a nice ivory color, with bubble sleeves, a silk ribbon sash, and I made it nice and long. Since the dress itself was so simple I made her headband a bit more fancy.

And of course she had to have some sweet little shoes to wear on her special day. I used this pattern and tutorial for them. I will be making more of these!

You looked perfect my little princess!

(I made the pattern I used for this dress, and it is the same one I used here, here, here, and here)

A Carseat Cover

2011-08-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

I decided since this was my 3rd girl, I was going to go all out and make everything super girly!

I searched all over the web on how to make this, looking for tutorials, etc. I have made a carseat cover before, but I wanted to perfect the process. I referenced this tutorial Make it and Love it, and also I emailed Dana from MADE, and she had a lot of GREAT advice on carseat covers.

I didn't want to take apart my old cover, just in case I do end up having a boy one day, so I just placed it on top of the fabric and traced around it with a pen to make each pattern piece.

I didn't want to remake the canopy, so I decided to find fabric that would match! (thus the tag still attached to the canopy) And of course it was a Heather Bailey fabric. My favorite designer.

I had to make a carseat canopy to match, I love having one of these. So nice to protect my little Nora from the wind, or sun, and help her have a dark, quite place to nap.

A Dress for the 4th

2011-08-09T00:16:00.000-07:00

My mom tie dyed a few patriotic shirts for us at the family reunion, and I decided to make little dresses out of my girls tanks. My dad calls it the art of expansion. I used Ashley's tutorial from Lil Blue Boo!

The dress was perfect for parade watching with cousins,

And Busting a move or two!

Color Me Purple!

2011-08-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

A purple party!

I started gathering Purple Supplies months before the big day, with a baby on the way I knew I would need to be prepared!

I got the cupcake wraps, and the cake stand around Easter time at Walmart. They had plenty of purple, and other pastel colors available. I dyed the cake and frosting purple of course!

I also had purple Jello Popcorn, a yummy way to flavor popcorn! Here is the recipe:

8 cups popcorn, I used my Air Popper (my favorite wedding gift)
1 cup light Karo syrup

1 cup Sugar
1 small box of Jello (any flavor, I used Grape)
2 tablespoons Butter

Combine Karo, Sugar, butter, and jello in a saucepan on medium heat. Bring it just to a boil and then pour over popcorn, beware it will be hot!

And of course a little grape Fanta

Some chocolate dipped marshmallows, purple Peeps, grape licorice.

We also had Sandwiches on Purple bread (my local grocery store will do this in their bakery, any color!) We also had grapes, purple kolaid, and grape jello jigglers.

It was VERY purplicous.

I used This tutorial for my ruffled streamers, and my sister taught me how to make the tissue balls, but you can go Here to learn how!

And of course everyone wore purple, We painted nails purple, and I found some amazing purple things at the dollar store to use, Fancy hats to decorate, Purple beads and bracelets, purple socks, and purple brushes, purple candy jewelry, all in little purple bags!

My purple princess sure enjoyed her special day!

A little Announcement

2011-07-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

(I used a software called Memory Mixer to make this, a GREAT easy to use scrapbooking software, also not expensive!)

Baby Sis has arrived.

2011-06-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

She is here... finally! Tuesday, May 31 10:56PM

7 lbs 2 oz & 20 inches

She doesn't have a name yet... we are working on that!

Ruffles...

2011-05-11T19:15:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to plan everything for Eliza's purple birthday before this baby comes, especially because baby sister is due the day before Eliza's birthday. I have seen these gorgeous ruffle cakes EVERYWHERE and I wanted to make a purple one for the birthday party, well I found a tutorial on youtube! So much easier than it looks, and so pretty and girly!image source

image source

Also, Anyone have any Ideas I could use for a Purple birthday? Games, or activities, etc? HELP!!!

Little Leggings...

2011-03-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

I don't know if any of you have this same problem, but I can NEVER find pants that fit my newborns! Maybe it is because they are so darn skinny when they enter this world, but even newborn sizes just drown them. I have handful of cute little onesies, and no pants to go with them. I decided to try using this tutorial for baby tights, and just size them down a bit. It worked really well! I think they will be perfect, and I have already made a stack of them.
Tiny things are just so cute...

Snuggly Blankie

2011-03-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

After seeing THIS knit blanket on Make it and Love it, I decided baby sister needed a knit blanket. But I was a bit intimidated by the knit bias tape edge, and since my fabric was so plain I thought a little ruffle would be more fun.

Now I just need a baby to wrap up in this pretty little blankie!

Littlest and Biggest

2011-03-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

Remember THESE dresses I made? Well, Big Sis Addie has grown out of hers, and now that there is going to be a Littlest Sis, she will need one to! Good thing I still have A LOT of fabric left from the original dresses. I would still like to add a little fat ric-rac still, but I haven't gotten around to that yet!

For the littlest sister's dress I used Made by Rae's Itty Bitty Baby Dress pattern and tutorial. SUPER easy, and so tiny, and FREE. I love that it will fit her this summer. I added the apron, and the band around the bottom.

For Biggest sister's skirt, I made this one up. I know there are plenty of patterns out there, if you don't dare wing it, or at least here are a few free tutorials HERE and HERE if you don't want to buy a pattern. It is similar to THESE skirts I made a few years ago. Very Twirly!

My hubs always gives me a hard time for matching my girls, but it is just SO dang fun. I hope he is prepared for 3 matching girls... hee hee.

knotty dresses

2011-03-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

My girls love wearing dresses. They would wear them EVERYDAY if they could. Not just skirts, DRESSES. We run out of dresses before laundry day, so I thought I would use some of my STASH (which is hard to break into!) for a few spring dresses.
I also LOVE these ruffle pants. The ones I made for their St. Patty's outfits are out of a grey and white knit fabric. These ones are out of a blue and cream stripe denim type fabric. They have an elastic waist, and I made them a little bigger, more like PJ's, because the fabric doesn't stretch.

I used THIS pattern, but just for the top, the rest I just made up according to the fabric I wanted to use on each dress. You can go here to see another knotty dress.

I had the girls pictures taken in them... I love how they turned out, they look too grown up!

The 27 week belly...

2011-03-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

Luck O the Irish!

2011-03-17T19:00:00.000-07:00

I know, its hard to believe but I have been sewing, I just have been REALLY bad at taking pictures and getting them on here! There are more dresses, leggings, and bedding I will be sharing. Also lots of bows for baby sister.

These were the girls 'leprechaun' outfits... which is what they like to call them. A little bit of a twist on lil blue boo's Sienna Dress. See more Sienna Dresses HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, or HERE.

These leggings are my new favorite, they have a knit waistband instead of an elastic one. I am working on a tutorial for the waistband, because it is my new favorite thing. Also, the ruffle makes my girls want to dance. They LOVE them.

(Don't mind my kid's one eye squint... They get it from there Dad, and it just can't be helped!)

Tangled Birthday

2011-02-22T19:31:00.000-08:00

A Rapunzel Birthday Party fit for a Princess

This party was so much fun to plan, and much easier than Alice. I decided to go with a lot of store bought options, being pregnant I just don't have the energy I would need for anything else!

The Cake was homemade though... and it was a beast. It was supposed to have a tower, but it fell apart, and the first time I tried to make the fondant, it was a disaster. I accidentally grabbed the wrong size marshmallows! So at midnight the night before I made a quick run to the store, and it worked the second time. I used the same recipe on this cake, as I did the Alice cake.

I found watercolors at the dollar tree, and the table decor is from a local party store.

When the girls arrived, in their best princess atire, we did a Rapunzel braid with ribbons and a flower clip.

We had lunch, and then painted pictures of Rapunzel, just like she painted the walls of her tower. I got great printable pictures of Rapunzel HERE.

The sun bunting was a printable from Super Mom Moments. You can go HERE to print your own. She has some more ideas for a Tangled party.

We played Pin the Nose on Flynn, which was a hit.

My sister used THIS as a guide, but pretty much free handed the Wanted poster. It turned out awesome.

The girls also played a version of duck duck goose that my daughter made up for the party called, Flynn, Flynn, Rapunzel. It was pretty cute.

I used several of THIS printable Pascal to do a hide and seek treasure hunt for their little gift bags... since Pascal is great at hide and seek.

There are also some more great ideas HERE if you need them!

It couldn't have turned out better, and SHE loved it!

Gumball Necklaces

2011-02-03T21:08:00.000-08:00

I am dying over these adorable necklaces, made out of gumballs! I found these over at One Charming Party. What a cute party favor, or Valentine gift! Go HERE for a How To!

The Baby

2011-01-25T20:38:00.000-08:00

We found out yesterday we are going to have a GIRL! Three girls, wow, a little overwhelming, but hey we have plenty of girl names we like and no boy names! Since I have so many girl things, there isn't alot of prep I need to do for the baby, but I am recovering/re-doing the bedding for baby girls crib. Here is the fabric I am using...

The crib bumper

The quilt

The Crib Skirt
Now, I want to paint the crib as well, BUT I can't decide what color!? I was thinking

WHITE
or
YELLOW
or
Light AQUA
or
Lime Green?

(but no pink, because I don't want to repaint it IF I ever get a little boy.)

A Sentimental Upcycle

2010-12-14T21:22:00.000-08:00

Isn't this little girl so beautiful!? She looks just like an angel. My friend, Heidi saved her own baptism dress, and had the brilliant idea to make it into a blessing dress for her sweet daughter. It had a few small yellowed spots, and so it wasn't going to be worn again by an 8 year old.

The lace and fabric were perfect for a blessing dress, and I loved the way it turned out.

This was before I added the pearl buttons, which I think added SO much to the dress.

Thanks Heidi for letting me be a part of your special day.

(Heidi made her adorable headband, the perfect touch, and so pretty)

A little late...

2010-12-14T21:03:00.000-08:00

I had to share a few more halloween 'witchy pooh' outfits I made for my friend for them to wear at Disneyland. They were going to be there for Halloween and wanted to look festive.

Cute Girls with Mary and Birt. Love it.

#3

2010-11-13T22:07:00.000-08:00

I haven't been around much lately, and this is why...

The first Trimester and part of the second are pretty rough for me, I have sworn off all sewing since I finished those Halloween Costumes, and they almost didn't get finished! But I am sure I can't REALLY stay away for too long, so I will be around, just not as often. Oh and I am due in June!

A Brief Costume How To!

2010-11-06T22:19:00.000-07:00

I had fun making our Halloween costumes this year, I don't know if I will ever be able to top these. I will start with the Mad hatter (who is checking college football scores on his phone)

I got most of his costume from Savers, a local thrift store. His Hat was my first purchase. It was intended for a leprechaun, so I had to unpick a four-leaf clover and add a tag. (which if you are wondering what it means it is the price of the Hat! Ten Shillings and a sixpence.) I just got a piece of card-stock, wrote on it with a marker and used a straight pin to attach it. It worked out great.

I made the bowtie out of some old fabric I had, and the green shirt was also a savers purchase. .99 cents thank you.

Now getting the jacket right was as key as getting a good hat. But, I did NOT want to sew a jacket for an adult man. it just didn't sound fun. So I got this one at savers for .99 cents and SPRAY PAINTED IT!

I went with orange, because I thought it would go better with the Hat and shirt combo I had purchased. I also didn't spray it evenly. I meant to do that. Seriously. I wanted it to be a bit messy, more like the Jonny Depp style Mad Hatter.

I also discovered the best low budget painting tool you could ever purchase. A spray painting gun. You attach it to any bottle of spray paint and shoot it like a gun instead of cramping up your pointer finger. It also helps you to get the paint on evenly. The best part... it cost me $2.89 And it is reusable. I got this one at Lowes.

What kind of spray paint did I use? the kind you get at walmart? I wasn't too picky, but I will say DON'T get the cheap 99 cent spray paint, it does not work as well. Promise. I tried and failed. Although I didn't use special spray paint, I did discover they make FABRIC spray paint. I would like to try it sometime. If you have tried it, let me know what you think.

For the Cat, I used a roll of masking tape to create the stripes. Put the tape on, Spray painted, and when it dried, I removed the tape. It worked REALLY well.

Maybe if I get some of that fabric spray paint I will make a striped shirt this way. Since I LOVE stripes. I think I got away with having the most comfy costume. I made my tail out of an old T-Shirt, and attached some little cat ears to a headband. My girls were concerned that I had no purple stripes, well kids, I couldn't find purple sweats ANYWHERE (or pink ones that I could spray paint purple) So, this cat was pink and white instead!

They dried really fast, or at least faster than I expected. I did these the day of our trunk or treat. I was lucky it was a warm day, which sped up the drying. I hope my neighbors didn't mind my costumes hanging everywhere!

I was SO glad and THANKFUL to my little Liza for wanting to be Alice, since I had already slaved over a costume for her once this year. This picture is from her birthday, but for Halloween she had tights, and I put a pettiskirt underneath to make it nice and puffy. This is a pretty basic dress, with a double layered gathered skirt, and a collar. I love it. So it made me so happy to see her wear it again.

Oh now Addie's Costume.... This one was so much fun to make! I decided to use a pattern, one i already had, and just add a few details to make it my own.

I used this pattern size 3 (which was a bit big and had to be taken in for my small framed girl), I did pattern B, the pink on at the bottom. I decided to do the bodice out of a stretchy fabric so i wouldn't have to put in a zipper. I added the collar and several embellishments and trims to make it queen worthy.

I got in a fight with the collar trying to get it to stand up like the Queen's does, in the end the collar won, and I know how I would fix it if I were to do it again. But I was not about to do it again! The crown and the Wand were GREAT finishing touches. I also had a few trial and errors with the crown, I ended up finding an 8 x 10 sheet of sparkly craft foam which I basically stapled together and slid it onto a headband. It was so easy, I was mad for trying the vinyl and the spray paint, and the cardstock. Duh. Why do I make things so difficult? The wand is similar to THESE but with a heart on top instead.

YES! Your MAJESTY!

(I am hoping to add more detailed pictures soon. we will see if it happens!)

I won!

2010-11-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

My friend Lindsay has a great blog that she recently started with her friend Lisa. It is called Do it Yourself Duo. They have great tips on life and home decor ideas. Lindsay has always had a great eye for style. I loved her post about family artwork, you can go here to check it out.
When she started her blog she did a giveaway for a $25.00 giftcard to Scrooge and Morely's in Lehi, and I won! I never win anything! And in one week we won a costume contest and a giveaway! She is doing another giveaway in November and its even better, check it out here.

50 Free Holiday Cards!

2010-11-02T10:16:00.001-07:00

Shutterfly is doing an amazing promotion for bloggers, you can get 50 of their Holiday Cards for Free! I love Shutterfly, and order gifts for family members from their site every year. I am so excited to use my free cards as our Christmas Cards this year. Now which one should I choose!?

Their site is easy to use, and they have so many great ideas that you can use for gifts. I have made gifts for Birthdays, Christmas, and Anniversaries. They make quality products and they make your gift giving personalized.

I have used Shutterfly to create Scrapbook photo Calendars (a grandparent favorite), aprons, key chains, and jewelry. Once I made a key-chain with pictures of my kids, and ended up taking off the key chain and attaching a clasp so I could wear it as a necklace or on a bracelet. I LOVE personalized gifts and they have so many to choose from! If you are a blogger you can take advantage of this great offer by going HERE. They have promotions going on all the time, so check their site often! (I have gotten BOGO on calendars and photobooks!)

My Family in Wonderland...

2010-10-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

More details to come on each costume, but here we are at the Trunk or Treat. I just love Halloween. We won the costume contest for best Family Costume! Woot!

You naughty!

2010-10-18T16:03:00.000-07:00

You darn Anthropologie! How dare you tempt me. I already have a difficult time resisting your clothes, now you make them to fit my DAUGHTERS!!! BAAA! I am dying.

And drooling...

Decorating Pumpinks...

2010-10-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the image quality, its a phone photo... but this year we decided to 'decorate' our pumpkins instead of carve them. The lace was a 2.00 tablecloth from the thrift store! Cut a hole for the stem, and hot glued to the bottom! Pretty, but still spooky. I like it!

A lovely Blessing Dress

2010-10-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

First of all, where have I been? Good question. At least I am here now!

My friend Rachael had a beautiful baby girl, and found a beautiful blessing dress that cost about $350.00... So she called me and asked if I could make it for less. Um HELLO! Yes, at least I will give it my best shot. I went down to the store, looked at the dress and got to work. The only thing I forgot to do was take picture of the finished product. But Rachael did that for me on her blessing day! (I also made the flower in her hair.)

We had to go on a hunt for the lace that is on the bodice, and then I pieced it together before attaching it to the dress. I used on of her current dresses as a pattern, to ensure a good fit. I think she looks so pretty! What did this dress end up costing? Materials: $34.00 I decided I REALLY like making blessing dresses. See more Here, and Here.

Blog Design

2010-10-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

HEY! I want to redesign my blog, and I want a professional to do it! (I just don't have those kind of computer skills!)

Any suggestions!?

A new store...

2010-09-30T20:37:00.000-07:00

Remember This tutorial? Well I was making those shirts to go with these skirts....

I got these Tu-tu's at an awesome clothing outlet called 7 Circles.533 North 1200 West
Orem, UT 84057

They were $8.00! Each week they have a new deal, anything from Men's dress shirts for $7.00 to kids PJ's for $4.00. They post the weekly deal on their blog or facebook page.

They carry all kinds of Name Brand clothing for men, women, and children, and they are all GREAT prices. If you are local, you should check them out! They are open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 am-7pm

Halloween for Cousins!

2010-09-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

Since my girls Halloween outfits from last year still fit,
(Last year... they are so tiny!)
This year...
I was itching to make some festive outfits for someone... So I got to work on these for my little nieces.

Little Witchy Poo...
And Pumpkin Patch...

I love Halloween!

Mini Button up and legging refashion

2010-09-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to get a little button up oxford type shirt for Miss A, but since it is a want and not a need, I couldn't justify spending the 30.00 on one at crewcuts. Also, American apparel has the cutest floral leggings, and I have been wanting to make some so I headed to the thrift store! I found a boys size 6 Polo button down, and and AWESOME 80's style floral knit dress with plenty of fabric to use! Love the way the leggings turned out, and using THIS tutorial, with a few modifications I made the size 6 a size 3.

How do you like Addie's new glasses? She result of bad genetics when it comes to eyes... but she has loved having glasses and she picked these ones out herself. Stylin!

Nice Fishy face Babe!

I spy....

2010-09-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

I was looking through some different photography websites and I found this

from a wedding I had gone to a few months ago.... I thought this picture of Addie in her Birthday Ballerina Dress was too cute not to share.

Project Runway and Jackie O

2010-09-19T18:23:00.001-07:00

How much did I love this last episode of project runway?! Hello, I wish I was doing that challenge. I was dying because I had just made a Jackie K inspired dress. And Mondo, you are my man. Let me know where I can purchase one of these outfits in my size!

(image from Dana at MADE where you can read more about project runway)

Oh and I have been sewing... just nothing too exciting. Lots of altering Bridesmaids dresses and homecoming dresses. But there are a few things coming soon!

Jackie O Dress

2010-09-06T23:32:00.000-07:00

My mom has had this fabulous plaid knit in her stash of fabric for as long as I remember. I always knew it was destined for something great...

The Jackie O Dress!

Named after my favorite First Lady... I thought it looked like something she would wear!
She always had beautiful Shift dresses, Bows, and those pearls!

And classic prints.

A little bow can make anything girly!

And I can't get enough of that mustard color.... can ya tell?

'tis the season...

2010-09-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

for FOOTBALL!!!!

Saying that we are football fans, would be an Understatement. We are Fanatics!
Now, first of all I must say that I am a BYU Cougar fan, but by marriage I am a Boise State Bronco fan. To my husbands joy, our kids love the Bronco's.

If you shout BOISE, my girls will yell, STATE!

Since Cheerleader costumes cost so much, and they aren't very comfy, I made my own.

Made of upcycled T-shirts, and my own twist on the Sienna dress, you get a comfy Bronco's cheerleader costume!

Miss A's dress is the front of my old T-Shirt...

For Miss E, I had to applique the B on, since I only had one Boise State T-Shirt to use between both dresses.

I had to do pleats on the bottom, to give it a cheer skirt feel.

Go Bronco's!

Good Luck Bronco's in the Game against Virginia Tech tomorrow!

Glasses

2010-09-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

So I have a few projects to share with you, but I haven't had a chance to get all the pictures edited and ready because I have been distracted by a few things!

Glasses....

Ever heard of the Girls with Glasses Show? Um my new favorite thing. If you haven't heard of it go HERE to see their website, or click on the image below. I also love their BLOG. My favorite part about the show is the THEME SONG. I am pretty sure I want to be them.
Who are the Girls with Glasses?
Summer Bellessa and Brooke White...
I was a big fan of Brooke when I saw her on American Idol, I love her voice and her style. And Summer is a founder and editor of one of my favorite magazines, Eliza. So it isn't much of a surprise that I love their show.

And since they both wear glasses, Brooke and Summer recently they interviewed some of the founders of Warby Parker, a company who makes glasses. Glasses like these...
If you wear glasses, you need to check these guys out. All of their frames, including prescription lenses with anti-reflective, and anti-scratch coating are $95.00 HELLO! If you are like me, insurance only covers contacts OR Glasses, and I like to have both, so finding a good deal on glasses is a MUST! And I love the vintage style that ALL their glasses have. You can only order them online, so they will send 5 lenses to your house to try, or you can virtually try them on their website.
The best part about Warby Parker... (I know can it get any better!) is that for every pair of glasses they sell, they donate a pair to someone in need. I heart them.

These are my favorite lenses.

I am in the market for a new pair of glasses, since my prescription has changed recently. I started with the virtual try on, and next week I am going to order my 5 home try on lenses.

What do you think?

Nedwin

Roosevelt

Miles

Thank you Girls with Glasses for introducing me to Warby Parker!

Silhouette Dreams...

2010-08-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

I want one of these so bad it hurts. There are giveaways for them ALL OVER right now. Just google Silhouette Giveaway August, and you will find them. Maybe my dreams will come true and I will win one. Maybe.

Go HERE to see what this pretty little machine can do!

Suspenders?

2010-08-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Ever since I saw THIS I have had this idea in my head for a suspender skirt, and as I did a little searching around for how I could make a jumper into a skirt with straps, I discovered that suspender skirts have quite the history, and show up in EVERY era of Fashion.

1930's
It seems that these started as something just children would wear. Very School girl. And very Alpine. Kinda makes me want to Yodel.

1940's
I am loving the styling on these with little jackets, vests, and collared shirts.

1950's
So collegiate don't ya think? Here is where they start phasing in to women's wear. I lreally like the straight skirt in this one.

1960's
One word... Mod. (And how would it be to pay 50 cents for a pattern!?!)

1970's
The rainbow ribbon used on this one is classic. Printed ribbon makes for some awesome suspenders. Also I heart the pockets on this skirt. Marsha Marsha Marsha

1980's
Not my favorite Version, but hey, maybe in a lightweight denim, and without that Hair it could be pretty awesome.

1990's
My mom made me something similar to this one when I started 1st grade. If I remember correctly she made ALL my back to school clothes that year. And Barbie patterns? Love it.

2000
I would love to try the pleated version of this skirt. SO preppy. (and SO Cher from Clueless. I LOVED her computerized wardrobe planner.)

2010
And this one is from Burda Style. Wanna make your own? I do! Check out more pictures of it, along with pattern details HERE. How cute are her Saddle shoes? I needs me some of those!

And last but not least MY version. It reminds me most of the 1930's version.

What one is your favorite?

Back to School Skirt

2010-08-27T10:17:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is back to school time! Which means, Fall, Boots, Soup, Colorful leaves, Canning, Pumpkins, and Football are just around the corner! I also can't believe this one is going to school this year!

I have had this little skirt on the brain for a very long time, and I am so glad I finally got around to making it! This purple cord was purchased last year for another project, and I just never got around to it. I am glad because it is PERFECT for this little suspender skirt!

I am Lovin' the way the suspenders are criss-crossed. It also keeps them on her shoulders.
I used a combination of directions and tutorials to make this. Go HERE or HERE to see them.

These wood buttons are also from my grandmothers collection. Thanks for collecting buttons grandma.

Happy back to school Miss Addie!

Family Themed Halloween Costumes

2010-08-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

I thought I would gather a few family themed Halloween costume ideas, in case some of you were wondering what you could all be for Halloween this year! Some are from the web, and some are my creative family and friends.

Superheroes
(use popular ones, or make up your own)

Star Wars

3 little pigs and the Big Bad Wolf

BLT

The 4 Seasons
Candy Bars
The Flinstones, or the Rubbles

Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad
Road Signs (Traffic Light, Stop Sign, Dangerous Curves Ahead, etc.)

The SWAT team

Board Games (Twister, Candy Land, Memory)

Vegetables
(click on the picture for source, unless it is family, I didn't link to their private blogs.)

Halloween Flashback

2010-08-24T22:43:00.000-07:00

To get you thinking about what YOU could be this year!

I thought I would share a few pictures from Past Halloween's in the Lewis family...

Little Bo Peep and her Sheep

Little Red Riding Hood, and the Wolf in Grandma's Clothing.

I had to share this one of my Brother in Law. He was "the money you could save with Geico"

Classic Halloween, A witch who wouldn't wear her hat, and a Pumpkin. This year my husband and I were Sarah Palin and John McCain, but I couldn't find a picture!

A little Bumble Bee

(My husband might kill me for sharing this one)
Sharpay and Ryan Evans from High School Musical

This was our First Halloween together, and I was pregnant with Addie. We were Zach Morris and Kelly Kapowski.

Also, I have been gathering ideas for Family Theme Halloween Costumes, which is usually what I try and do, but I might give my husband a break this year... we will see though!

Random Ramblings...

2010-08-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

So, I have a LONG list of projects that I have been working on lately. Most of them involve school clothes for Miss Addie. I am thinking of making a jumper like this one that Dana MADE...

So cute and So Fall!

And I have also started thinking about Halloween Costumes! I know its August, but hey if I want to make my kids costumes, I need to be on top of things, or else I will be up all night on October 30th sewing, and then the holiday will be no fun at all!

And come on, I know SOME of you have started thinking about Halloween. What are your kiddos going to be? I am afraid that after this year I wont have much say in what my kids want to be for Halloween. Lucky for me, Eliza is still in her Alice phase and wants to be Alice for Halloween. Alice costume, Check! But Addie on the other hand, has been REALLY into Shirley Temple movies, and wants to be THISor THISfor Halloween. Yup she is currently talking about being Shirley Temple.(Squeal of delight from me!) We will see if it sticks, and if it does the hardest part will be deciding which dress to make? The one below is a pretty light pink. What do you think? hmmmm....

Oh and P.S. I have FINALLY started to figure out photoshop. Now all I need is a better camera!

You are the Bru to my chetta...

2010-08-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

So, I LOVE Bruchetta. Maybe it is because I love tomatoes. I made this a few weeks ago for dinner and it was so pretty I had to take a picture! I marinated my chicken in vinegar, basil, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Basically Bruchetta without tomatoes. Then grilled the chicken, and when it was almost done cooking I added Mozzarella and Bruchetta. Then put it on toasted rosemary bread. YUMMY sandwich.

Knotty.

2010-08-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

This little Knotty dress is for my niece Amy. She is the prettiest little baby with a mop of curly dark hair on her head. Nevermind that she is now several months old, and I have just sent this baby gift. I guess good things come to those who wait! My husband said, why do you always give away some of your cutest work?! And I said, because anything is cute when it is bite sized! Last time I checked we don't have a child that would fit into a size 6-12 months.

I used THIS Claire Portabellowpixie pattern by Sandi Henderson, which is the same pattern I used when I made THESE dresses for my kiddos.

I love this pattern because it has a wide range of sizes... I will be making this for years to come!

Look MA!

2010-08-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

A picture of me wearing THAT shirt! See, I do actually WEAR the clothing I make for myself. Promise. I wear it a lot. I just don't take very many pictures of myself!

a little jailbird.

2010-08-14T23:01:00.000-07:00

I know this looks like a saggy piece of fabric, but....

Its a shirt! I have seen black and white stripes all over the place lately, and even though they look a little"incarcerated", I like it! And I just happened to have some black and white striped knit! La-Hove this shirt. Although, I am thinking I might need to shorten the sleeves... What do you think?

What is a Spaghetti Sandwich?!?

2010-08-11T20:43:00.000-07:00

It is the only way to eat leftover Spaghetti!!!

Here is how you do it, and mind you it is carb-o-licous, but so de-o-licous!

Bread and Butter. Salt and Pepper.
Butter the bread, add a little salt and pepper.

Leftover Spaghetti, Mozzarella Cheese.
Warm the spaghetti up with a handful of cheese on top, so its nice and melty!

Place on buttered bread....

Give it a good SMASH...

And dig in. This sandwich will probably change your life.

Seriously.

At long last!

2010-08-09T23:29:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this dress? Baby Blue...
Now it has a sister!

Meet, Sweet Pea.

I have had this sugar city journal Village frock cut out for 6 months, its about time I got around to sewing it huh!? And that lightweight courduroy will be perfect to transition into fall weather. I am going to try and make one out of Knit next, and maybe omit the buttons.... hmmm. Now there's an idea!

Wendy Bird

2010-08-07T23:20:00.000-07:00

I am not sure why, but these ribbons remind me of Peter Pan and Wendy... something about the stripes and colors make them feel vintage.

I love how long they are. I haven't decided though If I like them with our without little tails hanging out...

Both are pretty cute.

Ah ha! I just remembered what else they remind me of! Gossip girl! (not that I watch that show. Really I don't, I am not just saying that!)

HELLO

2010-08-06T23:30:00.000-07:00

KITTY!

Every time my kids see a Hello Kitty shirt, they ask me to buy it, and this last time they asked while we were at Target, I told them I would make one instead. I knew I had a stash of Tanks I had purchased on clearance (1.58 each) and they would be perfect for the job.

Here is the pattern I used for my applique. I printed 2 of these out, and cut out the various pieces, and then pinned them to my felt.

I ended up stitching on her whiskers, they looked to bold in black felt...
I think she turned out pretty cute don't you?

Felty Bow Tutorial

2010-08-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

Remember these? Well I thought I would show you how to make your own!
As far as bows go, this one is pretty easy! You will need:
glue gun
alligator clips (I get a box of 100 clips at Sally's Beauty supply)
1/4 inch ribbon
felt
scissors

Start by cutting a rectangle shaped piece of felt. The size you cut it will depend on how big or small you want your bow. Larger bows I did about 3 x 2.5 smaller bows I did 2 x 1. (these measurements are guesses!) And also cut a small strip, as shown below.

glue ribbon around the top prong of your clip, this is how I do mine.

Find the center of your rectangle, and pinch it like this....
Then I add a little dob of glue on the back to hold it in place.

Take your smaller strip of felt and glue it over the TOP and only the top of your bow.

It will look like this on the bottom... (I need to paint my nails. Boring!)

Using a small dab of glue, attach it to your clip like this,

Now put a small dot of glue on one side of the little strips that are sticking out, and wrap it around the clip, and then do the same thing to the other side. You may have to trim a little of the felt off each side after you glue each side down. Let it dry, and TA DA! You have your own felty bow clip!

And since Last Time I didn't have any pink bows, I thought it only appropriate that this tutorial would be done with a pink bow!

Crepe Paper... REALLY!?

2010-08-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

Who ever thought Crepe paper could make something so pretty!? I saw THESE over at House of Smith's, and have been dying to make a wreath version ever since! She has a tutorial HERE on how to make your own flowers. I want to make a really BIG one, but thought I should do a practice first.
So I headed to the dollar store, and got 1 package of pink crepe paper (it came with 2 rolls) and a green foam wreath and went to work while I watched Hero's on Netflix. I will admit it was a bit time consuming, but not difficult at all!
It matches our bathroom quite nicely!

Kelly Skirt

2010-07-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

I made this lovely comfy skirt about 3 weeks ago, and it had a nice late 80's vibe to it, like something Kelly Kapowski would wear on a date with Zach.

I have seen knit skirts like these all over the place, and I have wanted one, but none of them are long enough! pooh. So I decided to take a stab at it.

No hem on this knit skirt!

And big Slouchy pockets.

Thick elastic SEWN directly onto the fabric. I love this kind of a waistband. It may be my new favorite. Next time I think I will use THICKER elastic. Perfect for tucking a T-shirt into.

Sometimes its good, sometimes its NOT

2010-07-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

So I have had a quite a few sewing disasters in my days of sewing, and bow disasters in my days of bow-making.... I know SHOCKING! (Can you taste the sarcasm?)

Well here is a disaster, that I was able to fix.

It started with this XL T-Shirt I got at a clothing outlet called 7 Circles, it cost me a 1.50 and it was new!

I turned it into this....

And then this. This is the disaster I was talking about. It looked like a Fiesta Flamenco shirt. You should have seen the look on my hubby's face when I tried it on. It was supposed to be the mommy version of THIS. I shudder just looking at it. Pretty bad. So I unpicked those awful sleeves, and it became...

THIS! Loverly. Simply Loverly.

Don't you agree it is an improvement?

Denim Summer Skirt

2010-07-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

So I am working on getting pictures of me actually wearing this skirt, but I don't know when that will happen, so these must do!

Using inspiration from Dana's Summer skirt with Deep Pockets, I made my version with a few twist. I started with a light-weight denim that I picked up at Joann's

I wanted the skirt too look like it buttoned up the front without it ACTUALLY buttoning. Who wants to deal with making button holes if you don't have to? To do this, I had one seam up the back, and one up the front, instead of on the sides. For the front seam I folded over the edge and stitched along the top. I also didn't gather my pockets, and used a different pattern of my own making.

And these buttons? Vintage. From my stash that I inherited from my great grandmother.

A few things about Shirring your skirt, when you first start, it wont look like it is gathering up, and even after 12 rows it isn't that tight. Spray it with water and iron it, and it scrunches right up! So cool. One thing I would do different next time, is sew the casing for the 1/4 inch elastic BEFORE I started Shirring, rather than after. (Dana talks about adding the elastic at the top)

I love this skirt so much, I have already worn it 3 times. It goes with everything, since it is denim. I love skirts in the summer. So easy, I will be making another soon!

Uh.... help!

2010-07-22T23:30:00.000-07:00

All I have to say, is its a good thing I decided to start with the BASICS when it comes to Photoshop, because I can barely figure it out!!!! I got Photoshop Elements 8 for my birthday, and I am super excited. Now if only I can use it! Any suggestions!?!

A few of my favorite things....

2010-07-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

I know, like you care about my favorite things, but hey it was my birthday so I get a post about me k?

Scallops, especially on a cake stand!

Cute soft lounge jackets, pink ones.

BLING! Me love some sequins.

ANYTHING floral... I will take it in earring form, or clothing, or home decor. Love it.

White jackets. Crispy.

BOOTS! Must have these boots.

Run in a skirt... it will change your life.

(images taken from, Williams Sanoma, Nordstroms, Shade Clothing, and Sports Authority.)

From the 1930's

2010-07-20T23:25:00.000-07:00

I love old fashioned things, and something about these 2 colors together made me think of drop waists, and little cap sleeves.

And of course, a few ruffles to make it girly.

It also made me want to read vintage books....

A few gathers...

And lucky for me, Eliza has loved being in photo shoots!

No zipper, another reason I love knits.

Reverse applique tutorial

2010-07-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

So, most of you probably have this one figured out, but I thought I would share it anyhow!
For this you will need:
knit T-shirt
cotton applique fabric
sewing machine
scissors
matching thread

Start by turning your shirt INSIDE OUT
Cut out the shape you want your applique to be. (Stars, Anchors, initials, numbers, etc. would all be cute!)
Then pin your applique face down to your shirt which is inside out! I recommend plenty of pins to keep it in place. However don't let them get too close to the edges of the applique so you don't have to take them out while sewing it on.

Now use thread that matched your T Shirt, and sew around the edged of your applique. I do this twice. After the first time around I take out the pins, so it is easier to do the second time. I leave about 1/2 an inch around the edges.

I am not a perfectionist when it comes to the second time around, because the matching thread hides most imperfections when you turn it right side out.

Turn the shirt right side out, and lift the knit shirt away from the applique and make a little snip in the fabric so you can cut out the knit.

Cut all the way around your shape.

And there you have it! My new favorite way to applique!
(that rhymed. not on purpose.)

Gifts for Rachael's baby...

2010-07-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

I couldn't stop! I haven't made tiny sized things in so long!

A Sienna Dress, size 6-12 month. With a reversible zebra applique. (I have a tutorial on how to do a reversible applique tomorrow!)

A fluffy curly ribbon headband to match.

A paperdoll applique shirt, and a fluffy gold tutu to wear with it! (Every little girl needs AT LEAST one of these!)
I am hoping Rachael's baby girl gets her mommy's pretty dark hair, just like this little paperdoll!

I stitched around her twice to make sure she doesn't come off!

I used brown knit, and layers of goldish colored netting for the ruffles. I need one in my size.

And a few more hairbows to match the ensemble. Some felty clips for her hair...

And a white rosette headband, for before she has hair!

I am so excited for you Rachael. The world of girl is wonderful!

Ode to Disney.

2010-07-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

I know I am not the only one sad to see this crafty, brilliant lady leave the blogging and cyberspace world. But I wanted to give her a shout out and a Thank YOU for all the wonderful creative ideas you shared with us all! I know it wasn't an easy decision and I am proud of you for following your heart!
Before she left she taught me to make one more lovely little craft.... The Lauren Headband. Go HERE if you want directions on how to make them!

Here are the ones I made, I LOVE THEM! They are comfy and I wear them ALL the time!

Thanks again Disney! We will all miss you!

(picture at top taken from Disney's blog, ruffles and stuff)

Bow-dacious!

2010-07-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

While trying to grow out Eliza's hair, she needs just a little lightweight clip to hold her bangs out of those beautiful eyes. Those big fluffy bows, (sniff, sniff) are just not going to work any more.

Don't ask me why there isn't a pink one, I guess I just wanted her wardrobe to have a few non girly colors...

because these bows are pretty girly without flashing pink all over the place!

get some cute stuff!

2010-07-13T08:06:00.001-07:00

Remember my cute sis, Natalie and her Blog? Well she is selling a bunch of her adorable stuff tonight! Details are below.... and there will be lots of YUMMY cupcakes! Stop by, anyone and everyone is invited!

Tuesday July 13

5:00 - 9:00 PM

My parents house (522 south 130 west, Orem)

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

2010-07-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c cocoa
1/2 cup shortening
1 egg
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 bag large marshmallows
your favorite chocolate frosting

Cream Shortening, egg, and sugar. Add flour, baking soda, salt, cocoa, vanilla, and milk. Mix well. Spoon onto cookie sheet, bake at 350 for 7 min then put HALF large marshmallow on top and bake 2 more min. Cool, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting.

Who's That Lady!?

2010-07-09T23:30:00.000-07:00

My girls have a few character shirts, which I am not really a fan of, unless we are at Disneyland or going to Bed, but they LOVE them. So to make me more of a fan, I turned them into a dress. Yes I have made a quite a few of these, but hey, the cuteness factor never gets old!

HEEEEYYY!

I did try something new on the sleeves with Addie's dress. It makes for a nice fit.

And Eliza is one messy child, so please ignore the yogurt on the front of her Tinkerbell dress!

I am not sure if you noticed their fancy princess wands... I made those too! Actually they got them for Christmas, but I wanted to do a tutorial on how to make them so I waited to share them, but then I realized discovered someone beat me to the punch, (thank goodness, I might have never posted these!) Go HERE if you want to make your own!
Salagadoola mechicka boola bibbidi-bobbidi-boo

I already had most of the ribbon, but the pearls and the ric rack I got at Wal mart of all places! One of these would make a great little birthday gift, and inexpensive too!

It'll do magic, believe it or not! Bibbity Bobbity Boo!

I really like Ruffles

2010-07-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

Confession: I have had this shirt for 2 years.
Truth: I have worn it twice.
Time for something new right?

I made it 2 weeks ago, and I have worn it twice. And a lady at Costco asked me where I got it!
My response, "I made it!" (Woot!)

More of that secret fabric from the secret warehouse... Hee hee hee.

Festive Food...

2010-07-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

This recipe came from my sister in law, but I changed it a little...

Raspberry Lemonade Jello:
Filling:
1 large box of Raspberry Jello
1 small box of lemon cook and serve pudding
Topping:
1 small box of instant lemon pudding
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup milk
1/3 cup powdered sugar

Raspberries for garnish

Make Jello as directed, then cook pudding and add to Jello. Mix well and put in 9x13 glass pan. Let it sit for several hours, till it is set up. Whip remaining ingredients (except raspberries) and add a little food coloring if you want it festive. Spread on top of jello, and garnish with raspberries.

BBQ Spare Ribs:

Boil Ribs for 1 hour
Place Ribs in baking dish and cover with your favorite BBQ sauce. Bake ribs at 300 for 1 hour
Grill ribs with more sauce for about 15 min, the time really depends on your grill and how hot it gets. Just don't burn them!

Oven Fries:Wash potatos and then chop them up. Place them in a Large zip lock bag. Add a few tablespoons of olive oil and a few shakes of stake seasoning. Place them on foil lined baking sheet. Add a little salt and more stake seasoning, then bake for 30 min at 400.

Embellish me?

2010-07-06T23:30:00.000-07:00

In the grand spirit of refashioning and needing something to wear to the ECLIPSE premiere, I whipped up these little numbers!

Nothing like a little vintage lace to add to a sweater. Thank you Great Grandma Nana. I LOVE this lace. Isn't it pretty?
And here I go with those bows again! Isn't that color pretty? You will be seeing a lot more of it. I am not allowed to speak of the source of the fabric since I got it at a warehouse that can't be named for 1.00 a yard. Yes, and there is more where that came from...

This was what it looked like before... cute, but not AS cute. I trimmed up the neck before adding those fluttery bows.

A little closer up...

And here I am with my Sis at the Eclipse premiere. Yes I am a member of Team Jacob, and I won't admit how many times I have read those books... ahem.

Coca-Cola

2010-07-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

To me, Coke is the sweet nectar of Life, I LOVE it. It has sustained me through illness, and pregnancy, midnight movies, and buffalo wings. And I guess that is the reason I have a collection of old Coca-Cola T shirts. Too bad they never get worn... So, why not make them into some lovely Sienna Dress's for my girlie's! Cheers!!

Thanks again Ashley for creating such an awesome and EASY pattern.

And thank you Wal-Mart for having a Sale rack full of 1.00 T shirts.

Bottoms up!

(No children were caffeinated during the photo shoot.)

Frilly Great Tutorial

2010-07-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

You need about 1 yard of knit for this little number! Start by finding a shirt or a dress that fits your child well. You will use this to determine how wide to make the main bodice of the dress. It will also determine the length, as the length of the bodice hangs about 1-2 inches longer than a T-Shirt. I folded my fabric, and put the dress on top to measure, and since I am using the fold, I will only have one seam to sew.

After cutting the bodice, you will need to cut a bunch of strips, here are the numbers and approx. measurements of strips

2 strips that are about 6 inches wide and 24 inches long (these are for the skirt, you can make them wider if you want the dress to be longer.)
4 strips that are 2.5 inches wide and about 14 inches long (these are for the ruffles along the top of the dress)
4 strips that are about 1.5 inches wide and 8 inches long (these are for the straps you tie in bows at the top of the dress)

Now, get out that sewing machine. Start with sewing up the side seam on your bodice piece. Sew the side opposite the fold. Put that aside...

Now grab the 2 skirt pieces, the ones that are 6 inches wide. Sew them right sides together on each of the short sides... this should create a large circular piece of fabric.

Now on to the gathering.... Here is how I do it, but you may have your own methods. Do what works best for you.
I set the stitch length on my machine to the longest length possible, this is usually a 4 or 5 on most machines. Then sew along the edge of the fabric, all the way around. DO NOT BACK STITCH!

When you are done sewing around the edge, find the end of the BOBBIN Thread, and gently pull. It should start to gather your fabric. Space the gathers out pretty evenly, keeping in mind you will need to adjust the gathers when you get to the next step.

Attach the skirt to the bodice. Start by pinning the skirt to the bodice so you can space out the ruffling from earlier so the skirt is the same size around as the bodice. Then attach them. Oh and don't forget to fix the stitch length on your machine before you start sewing this part!

Now more ruffling... get the 4 pieces of fabric that are 2.5 inches wide. And gather these on one side, just like you did with the skirt. I rounded off the bottom corners on each end of these ruffles with my scissors.

Take 2 of the ruffle pieces and pin them around the top of the bodice. I started in the middle front of the dress, having the ends of each ruffled piece of fabric overlap about 1 inch. This overlap will happen in the front and the back. Once it is all pined, sew it on to the bodice.

Time for the second ruffle! Lift up the top ruffle, and measure about 1-1.5 inches down to start pinning on the next layer of ruffles. Sew them on. I left all the edges raw, and I DIDN'T put right sides together because I wanted to see all the raw edges on the dress.

You are almost done! Get your last 4 strips, the ones that are about 1.5 inches wide. Find the center of your dress, mark the front and back. This next measurement will depend on the size or width of your child, but for mine, I pinned the straps on about 2.5 inches from the middle on each side... Do this for the back as well. Sew those straps on! (Lets try to ignore that huge bandage on my thumb. I get the stitches out today!)

Slide it over your child's head, and tie those straps up in bows and ta da... you got it!

I wanna be a frock star....

2010-07-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Saw the dress.... Had to make it. You know how I am. I guess this time it was mostly because I didn't want to pay J.Crew $38.00 for it, especially when I have such an amazing stash of knits that cost me a dollar a yard, meaning this dress cost me about 25 cents and 2.5 hours of my time.

Here is crew cuts version...

I made a few minor changes to my dress, I did 2 ruffles instead of 3...

And made the bottom ruffle skirt a little longer,

I had her try it on to check the fit... and I couldn't get it off again!

What should we call this little frock? And tomorrow... I may just show you how to make your own!

Ahoy... and other Nautical expressions

2010-07-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

It is the 1st of July my friends, my FAVORITE MONTH OF THE YEAR!!!! I guess it helps that my favorite Holiday, and My Birthday are Both in that month! And as with any Holiday, you can count on me making something festive, and something matching for my Kids to wear!

And I can thank Dana from MADE for the free pattern... seriously THANK YOU!!! (Click image below to get the pattern for yourself!) The Warhol Dress is the cutest and easiest thing to make. I insist you make your own. Really.

I kept the Red White and Blue Theme, but didn't want it to be overly Patriotic, even though I am overly patriotic, so I went with a Nautical Theme.

Here is the pattern for an Anchor Stencil if you want to make yours Nautical too! I also thought a sail boat would be cute!

So... here is a good stencil for a sailboat too!

I opened the image in Microsoft Picture and made it a little bigger, then traced it. Kinda ghetto I know, but hey, its all I got! One day I will have photo shop and my life will be complete.

And I REALLY like ruffles, so of course it had to have a ruffle!

Happy Independence Day!

No Machine Required!

2010-06-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

I was thinking... some of you may or may not have a sewing machine (YET....) So I thought I would show you some NO MACHINE REQUIRED projects. These are the kind that don't take long, and have a satisfying result!

This is the kind of crafting anyone can do! Take shirt you already have and give it just a little more... Who wants a boring green shirt anyway?! I just used a few scraps for these little flowers, just tied up a little strip of fabric with a knot and used my needle and thread to sew them on!

Here is another No Machine Required idea... BOWS!!! Who doesn't love a little bow? How about 2 BIG ones!

Tied the bows, and stitch them in place. So go grab a shirt out of the drawer and get your craft on!

Waterfalls of Ruffles

2010-06-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Addie was in need of a few summer dresses. And I was in need of a good sewing fix. I had an idea for a dress that would require a little girls T-Shirt, and so I rummaged through the girls old clothes and I found this lovely little shirt. It happened to match some knit fabric I got at walmart for $1.00/yard.

The shirt is from H&M and it is a size 18-24 month, and I LOVE it, but it is REALLY wide, and obviously looking at the size, too short, so it made a perfect candidate for this dress!

I made the skirt first, and sewed on 3 layers of ruffles, then I attached it to the shirt. I LOVE how it turned out.

And lucky for me, so does Addie! I mean, look how it twirls... And so comfy!

MY mamma made it!

2010-06-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

While I was looking through some old boxes today, I found a little treasure...
This picture
I guess I now know where my obsession with matching my kiddos comes from!

And in that same box I found...
This DRESS! This is my little Eliza wearing MY old sailor dress! How cute eh?

The BEST part is my mom made it!

How adorable and CLASSIC is it?

She made my Brother, Jason's, too! (how creepy is that ET doll he is holding!?)

He has his old outfit, and my sister in law took a picture of my cute Nephew wearing his Daddy's outfit. I LOVE IT!

Headbands

2010-06-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

Just some Headbands...
These are the best on those days that I don't feel like doing my hair. ponytail + cute headband = hair done for the day!

Flutterby Shirt

2010-06-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

EASIEST SHIRT I HAVE EVER MADE!!!

and I made it out of one of my husbands old Polo's. I wish I could find a picture of him wearing it, he has had this shirt since he was a Freshman in college, in 2002. I think it was time to re-purpose it!
At first Liza didn't want to put it on. She kept saying, 'No! Daddy's Shirt!' But once I convinced her that it was now HER shirt, she was all about it! She is proud to be wearing daddy's shirt.

Here is one of the little sleeves, they reminded me of a butterfly, thus the flutterby shirt. I am doing a tutorial right now, only for a mommy sized one!

wedding flowers

2010-06-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

My friends little sis, Abbey, asked me to make some flowers for her beautiful wedding. this was a first for me! I had so much fun doing it, despite the hot glue burns on my fingers!

For the Bride
For the Bridesmaids

For the flowergirl's hair

For the flowergirl's dresses

For the maid of honor

I think I made a total of 70 something individual flowers, some were clustered, some were put on clips and pins! Thanks for letting be a part of your wedding Abbey!

The Dress....

2010-06-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

Making her Alice in wonderland dress was so much fun. It was the first time I had made a collar since my beginning sewing class in college, which was 4 years ago!

And No Alice in Wonderland dress would be complete without a giant bow in the back! Also I did bubble sleeves, my favorite kind of sleeve. Maybe one day I will get my act together and do a tutorial on how to make a bubble sleeve!

Try to ignore the wrinkly apron... I washed it and was too lazy to iron it! At least it doesn't have frosting down the front right?

And of course, I had to use the giant ric-rac as trim. I love the scalloped look it gives!

And last but not least the bow, It is all made of felt. The easiest and sweetest headband I have ever made. There will be more of these for sure! Perfect finishing touch.

Da Cookies!

2010-06-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

The trick to fancy cookies, is royal icing. My talented sister in law, Kiersten shared all her royal icing knowledge and helped me with these pretty cookies!

ingredients:
3 tablespoons Meringue Powder
4 cups (about 1 lb.) confectioners' sugar
6 tablespoons warm water

Makes: About 3 cups of icingBeat all ingredients until icing forms peaks (7-10 minutes at low speed with a heavy-duty mixer, 10-12 minutes at high speed with a hand-held mixer).
to make thicker frosting, add less water. You may need to add more or less powdered sugar as well.

We started with a thicker consistency frosting, and outlined the shape of the cookies and let the outline dry. Then we thinned the frosting out and filled in the shape of the cookie. Let those harden, and thicken that frosting back up with powdered sugar to decorate. Very fun and very pretty. I recommend trying it out a few times before you make them for any event.

I always use wilton gel food coloring for all my frosting. So much more bright and pretty. Also they sell Meringue Powder at Joann's. So go ahead and use a coupon on it!

Cakin' & Cupcakin'

2010-06-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

I totally took the easy way with the actually cake itself... and used Betty Crocker's fun-fetti mix. Its fun and colorful, plus it tastes good! I made all the cake about a week early and stuck it in the freezer. It made it nice and moist!
The Fondant:

I used the recipe by Brittany on Make it and Love it. One of my new favorite blogs. She does an entire Make-a-Cake series. Here are her Fondant directions. I have made it twice, and do it just as she says, she knows what she is talking about!!!

The Butter Cream Frosting:

I ALWAYS use Wilton's recipe, you can make it any flavor you like! Even Chocolate!

Ingredients

1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine softened
1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (approximately 1 lb.)
2 tablespoons milk

In large bowl, cream shortening and butter with electric mixer. Add vanilla. Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. When all sugar has been mixed in, icing will appear dry. Add milk and beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use.

For best results, keep icing bowl in refrigerator when not in use. Refrigerated in an airtight container, this icing can be stored 2 weeks. Rewhip before using.

Salad n' Wrappin!

2010-06-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Salad Recipe:
(I combined several recipes for this)

1 package of Cheese Tortellini
1 small bag of spinach
Golden cherry tomatoes
Olives
Feta Cheese
Ken's Italian salad dressing

1. Cook the tortellini, I actually used ravioli, because I found pretty colorful ones at Costco! Stick the ravioli or tortellini in ice water as soon as it is finished cooking.
2. Cut the olives and tomatoes in half...
3. drain the ravioli and combine them with the olives and tomatoes.
4. Add some dressing, but go light! Add spinach and Feta cheese right before serving!

The Wraps:

10 large flour tortillas
20 slices deli turkey
1 small bag baby spinach leaves, rinsed and patted dry
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 package dry salad dressing and dip mix, ranch or onion flavor
1/4 cup red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup green bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped

Put it All Together

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with dry dressing or dip mix. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Stir in bell pepper.
Divide cream cheese mixture between tortillas and spread evenly. Cover cream cheese layers with a layer of baby spinach leaves. Top with two slices of turkey per tortilla.
Roll the tortillas, firmly but carefully, into wraps. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, slice each wrap into 6 equal pinwheels. Secure pinwheels with toothpicks if necessary.

A Very Merry Birthday...

2010-06-21T06:42:00.000-07:00

About a month ago my daughter asked for an Alice party... and I couldn't resist. Putting together an Alice in Wonderland party is crazy and fun, mostly because the possibilities are endless. Seriously. I got a little out of control. Here are pictures from the event, and in the next few days I will share recipes, how we made the decorations, etc. So be sure to stay tuned!

Of course Alice herself showed up for the tea party. And my daughter loved having tea with Alice!

Since the day of the party wasn't her actual birthday, we could call it an Unbirthday Party!

Checking out the cake and cupcakes. For the cupcakes we used Butter cream frosting, and the cake itself used fondant. (Recipes coming soon!) And yes, I made her dress and headband.

This cake cost me some blood, sweat, and tears. Really it did. While removing the top so I could stack it I cut my thumb, and had to head to the insta-care to get six stitches. Nothing like a trip to the doctor to add to party preparation. By the way, do you know how many things you need your thumb for? Alot. I guess I shouldn't try and cut a frozen solid cake with a cutco knife. OUCHIE.

One of my new obsessions is mini cupcakes. They are so cute and bite-sized. I love them. Some of the lanterns we made, others we bought. I will teach you how to make Lanterns soon!
The fondant was easy to work with, until it got warm from kneading it so much! We had to toss it in the refrigerator a few times to firm up.

The Party favors....

The food! I am not normally a fan of 'chick' food, but a tea party calls for it! It all turned out really yummy! We also made many of the platters. I will show you how soon!

Drink Me.

more food... Pasta Salad recipe, and wrap recipe coming soon. Also Cookie Tricks! The artichoke dip was from Costco.

Eat me... take one!

Turkey Spinach Pinwheel Wraps and Strawberry lemonade.

The table setting.

Centerpieces

Tea cups, and tea pots

We also found some classic Alice in Wonderland quotes to hand around the party.

And of course a party in wonderland wouldn't be complete without a game of croquet!

Alice played with all the kids, and even though we don't know the rules, they got the basic idea and still had fun.

Our Alice did such a great job, this was more of a family party, so only a few kids came. She just hung out with the kiddo's the entire time!

Happy Alice in Wonderland Birthday Sweetie!

just a little teaser....

2010-06-20T21:54:00.000-07:00

Best birthday party ever... more pics and details coming soon!!!

I AM BACK!!!!

2010-06-10T07:53:00.000-07:00

So after several months of NO internet, it is coming back next week! I have been going through major blogging withdraws, but I have been sewing, so there will be plenty to catch up on! While I have been gone, my little sister Natalie has started blogging! She makes some really great stuff, so check her out!

Cinnamon just a dash

And I will be back with more!

cutie fruity layered skirt

2010-04-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

So I have this problem, it is kind of an obsessive thing. I see something... and I have to make it. I saw a little girl last week wearing a teired skirt, some call it a twirl skirt, some call it a peasant skirt, a layered ruffle skirt, etc. but I call it a cutie fruity layered skirt. I have vowed to stop buying fabric from fabric stores until I use, or reuse at least HALF of what I already own... but I guess going to Savers during their purple tag sale doesn't fall under that category since savers is a thrift store, and the purple tag items were $0.99. I found 5 XL shirts to use for this project.

And I know Addie's only has 4 layers... I will explain that soon! I started by measuring their waists, and how long I wanted the skirts to be. I will use Addilyn's measurements for an example. 18 inches for her waist, and 19.5 for length. This would be about a 3T. I took her waist measurement and added 4 inches to it, which equaled 22 inches to figure out how WIDE to cut the first layer. For each consecutive layer I DOUBLED that. So her next layer was 44 inches, then 88 inches, then 176 inches. (I know that is long, and it required alot of piecing, so if you decided to do 1.5 as much in stead of 2 times as much it would work, just not quite so full!) To figure out how LONG to make each layer figure out how many layers you want, and make sure you are good at math. This is where I goofed up with Addies skirt, I just got the math wrong! Thus, 4 layers instead of 5! I guess when she gets taller I will add a pink layer to the bottom! Back to figuring out the length of each layer. I wanted her skirt to be 19.5 inches long, with 5 layers. For each layer that you want, add about .25 inch to the total length.

.25 x 5 = 1.25 + 19.5 = 20.75 inches.

Then divide that by 5

20.75/5= 4.15 inches.

Just a little more math then you are done!

Now on the top layer, or teir you need to add 1 inch for the waistband! I used .75 inch elastic, if your elastic is thicker, like 1 inch, you need to add 1.5 inches to your waistband layer.

Now put the skirt together! Each layer you need to gather at the top, and then fit or adjust it to fit the layer above. I recommend pinning it, i know it is a pain to pin so much BUT I have done it without and it was much more of a headache than if you just pin it!

I gathered mine by turning up the stitch lenght to the highest it would go and then pulled the bottom thread. Sometimes it helps if you sew two rows and then pull the bottom thread, just in case the thread breaks.

Pair it with a cute jacket, and Ta Da! you have a cutie fruity layered skirt!

Boise Baby

2010-04-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

My husband LOVEs Boise State Football... Can't get enough of those Bronco's. For his birthday I made him this quilt, which was my first quit done all by myself. I used my moms AWESOME industrial sewing maching to quilt it! I might have a new addiction... uh oh!

Bonjour Minnie Mouse

2010-03-28T19:40:00.000-07:00

I have been at it again. Thanks to Ashley Hackshaw, I am now addicted to sewing with knits. Especially old T-shirts. I have collected quite a pile.

We are heading to Disneyland soon and I wanted the girls to have something 'festive' to wear.

I used the sienna dress pattern for Addilyn's dress

I LOVE THIS PATTERN!!!

And for the leggings, I just took some of her other store bought ones and used them as the pattern! (easier than I thought!)

Eliza's dress was basically the ruffle T-Shirt dress I have made so many times before! I added a little ruffle to the sleeves after I trimmed them.

I love how both dresses almost have a french feel to them.... I guess it is the stripes with the red fabric!