NORTHERN GIRL STAMPER

HOW TO DRESS IT UP

2012-01-16T18:42:00.003-05:00

My favorite thing to do at a fabric store is to mix several types of prints together with different shades. I selected this combination of fabric with no project to create at the time, but I knew I just had to have it.

SOOOO this weekend with it being -10 degrees here in Northern Maine I knew I just had to bring some sunshine to a very cold weekend.

I knew I wanted to make a dress with these fabrics so I searched through all my patterns to create just the right look.

I started with a basic bodice from the book "Little Girls, Big Style" using the white print and then created the skirt using the grey fabric and measured the length I wanted by 19w.

For this one it was 2 @17L x 19W for the skirt part of the dress.

I wanted just the basic straps as the dress would just be a pull over.

I added a ruffle as the hem of the dress by cutting the yellow fabric 2 @ 4 1/4 x 39 1/2, folded it in half and serged it to the bottom hem of the dress.

Now we could be gone with this cute little dress and it would still be just as adorable BUT!!! Lets DRESS IT UP!!!!

I used the yellow fabric next to make a peasant top to be placed under the dress for the colder season. The pattern I used for the undershirt is one I found on "Fairytale Frocks and Lollipops" by the designer "Monkeybugs" "Sweet Petticoat Slip Dress".

I did however modify it by making it a shirt and not a full slip

Can you say ADORABLE!!

I also took some of the remnant from the gray fabric to make a pinwheel flower that was glued to a clasp pin so that I could take it off when I wanted to change the look.

Now we have the two items to combine them together for a new look. LETS DRESS IT UP!!!

Now how adorable it that!!

For one more look I had some beautiful black velvet ribbon that I made a sash to wear with the dress. I took off the flower and removed the yellow shirt and now it has a touch of elegance with just the sash.

So many looks from just combining several patterns or modifying some that you have to achieve the look you want.

LINKED PARTIES

TEDDY AND ME

2012-01-16T08:12:00.002-05:00

Corduroy is one of my favorite fabrics to work with as it is very stable and easy to work with.

I received a SUV and I do mean a SUV full of fabrics, trims, notions and tools for sewing from my sister In-Law (Hubby's sister) the weekend of Christmas. Their mom passed away 10 years ago and she had been saving it in hopes to one day sew. She offered the materials to me this Christmas and I must say I was overwhelmed with JOY to receive such a precious gift.

Imagine all the material from a generation before me to create some pretty amazing and beautiful things.

Well I was so tickled pink that once I came home and sorted and placed everything in it's rightful place I begin to IMAGINE and the creations started.

This one is by far my favorite as it takes me back to when I was a little girl and how I just loved to wear matching corduroy outfits.

The pattern I used for the top is from McCall's easy stitch #6377

The pants is the pattern from Viola Lee patterns on etsy. This outfit is a size 3T

This adorable outfit can be worn together or just the top/dress with a pair of leggings or tights. Place a cute ruffled shirt underneath and it can be worn all year long.

COUNTRY CHARM PILLOWCASE DRESS

2012-01-11T08:41:00.001-05:00

This pattern is one of the easiest and simplest patterns to make. It is the "SEW FLOUNCY" Pillowcase dress pattern from Foot Loose and Fancy Free.

She has several styles to create and the designs are endless once you know all the correct sizes. I did however adapt the measurements for a 4 tier ruffle instead of the 3 in the instructions.

I wanted to incorporate the bottom trim fabric that was given to me by my sister In-Law. It was my mother In-Laws fabric she had been saving. Once I saw it I new exactly what I wanted to make with it. I had the perfect fabric to match the trim.

I new the finished length from the Sew Flouncy instructions for a 3t and I was not changing the bodice measurements so it was only the two tiers I needed to adjust for the addition of the lace trim.

The 2nd and 3rd tier called for an 8" width for a total of 16"

My bottom lace trim was a 5" so that leaves 11 inches I need to make up. I cut the first and second tier at 5.5 width giving me my total width for the whole length of the dress.

I find many treasures at my local "MARDINS" surplus store and the 2" lace trim was just perfect for this darling little dress. I think I paid $.15 cents a yard for the lace trim.

What is so perfect about this style is that it doesn't just have to be worn in the summer it can also be worn in the other seasons by just adding some leggings or tights with a cute top.

LAST MINUTE GIFTS FOR HER

2011-12-20T17:47:00.000-05:00

I made the investment into a serger. It is the one at the very lowest cost that is out there, but I wanted to be sure I liked it and I would use it before I made a larger investment. I heard so many bad and good reviews and the # 1 complaint for all sergers is the threading process. HELLOOOO its all color coded and a breeze to do. I bought the singer serger profinsher at joanns on sale for $199.99. I LOVE IT!!!!

Okay so I have all this great sheer fabric that I bought for $1.50 a yard and really haven't done much with ut because it is a very hard fabric to work with. SOOOOO I decided why not just try it. YUPPERS HOME RUN!!!! I made some scarfs and we all know those scarfs are now becoming a #1 accessory for all our wardrobes. This took be literally 10 minutes to complete one. This is from cutting to finishing. Well I went to work and made some last minute gifts for some friends who I know just love to wear scarfs.

I cut the fabric the length of the fabric x 9". You can make it as long or as wide as you want.

The upper loop thread and right needle thread is set to 2 and the bottom loop thread is set to 4

Tension is set to fine

Place it in your serger being sure that your serger is set for a rolled hem. I have mine set for a 3 thread rolled hem. Let the machine do all the work for you. I just guide it as it is being serged.

Use different thread colors with the many fabrics to use. Give it contrast.

Now that you have completed your scarf you can wear it several different ways. Let your styling begin for all your outfits.

TODDLER CHRISTMAS DRESS

2011-12-14T20:11:00.001-05:00

When my girlfriend asked me if I could make a dress for her very first grand daughter I off course said YES!!! I just love the fabric she picked out and the pattern was a very easy one to use. I also made the bloomers to match the dress. It is a size 3-6 months and it is just so adorable.

I altered the pattern slightly by making the bottom hem green print a double fold so that I would not have to hem the bottom. I also used bias tape for the arm trim and legs on the bloomers.

The flower is made from some left over material from the dress.

MY CHRISTMAS TREES

2011-12-14T20:03:00.000-05:00

I just love the Christmas Season and decorating is one of my favorite parts. I decided to do some staging this year as I put up a second tree this year in the dinning room area.

I already had my big fluffy tree in the sun room all decorated when I just feel in love with a tree at Wal-Mart. It was just white lights and Glass red & Gold balls. I recreated it with my smaller tree.

I wrapped some empty boxes and stuffed some empty bags to place under the tree.

I also decided to place all my cards on the tree so it has become a functional tree.

Underneath the tree in the sun room I used mostly gift nags this year and made all the hanging tags. The tags are made creating the rosette technique with strips of (2) 12 x 2" card stock scored every 1/2"

SANTA PLATES

2011-12-14T19:45:00.000-05:00

This Christmas I made Santa Christmas cookie plate for the little ones that will be coming to Our Christmas gathering the weekend before Christmas. I just love how they came out.

I bought the plates at The Christmas Tree Shops for $.69 Can you say BARGAIN!!

I purchased the cut files from " My Vinyl Designer " and designed the plate in my SCAL software.

I personalized each one with the family name on the plates.

THANKSGIVING FAMILY TREE - WHAT I AM GRATEFUL FOR

2011-11-19T21:16:00.000-05:00

This year I wanted Thanksgiving to truly signify what a family is about. A family stays strong by their roots and continue to branch out and grow, but are always connected. This bare tree also signifies that a family doesn't need to have the the leaves all the time to still be healthy and strong. Each season that we go through in life changes us and makes us grow. Even when the leaves fall they come back even healthier and stronger the next season because the foundation of the tree is strong enough to nourish the branches back to life every year.

I found some great branches from a birch tree and cut just the right sizes I needed. I then tied them all together and placed them in a crystal vase. I took some of my brown cardstock scraps and shredded them in the shredder and used it as filling in the vase.

I made hanging tags that open up and each of the tags has a special message to each of my family members who will be here for Thanksgiving day.

Thanksgiving is a very important day, it's a day to really remember each other and be grateful for each other and what we each represent to one another.

The Rosette was made from (2) 2 x 12 strips of carstock. I scored each strip 1/2 all the way to the end. I then used my fall punch to punch the edge with tiny leaves. The leaves I punch out I have set aside to scatter on my table. The second layer rosette is (2) 1 1/2 x 12 scored 1/2".

The second rosette was created from 1 1/2 x 12 strips and the second layer 1" strip. Follow same instructions as above.

PRIMITIVE PAPER STAR INSTRUCTIONS

2011-11-14T22:53:00.001-05:00

I am a big fan of "PRIMITIVE DECOR" and I have been looking everywhere for just the right Christmas ornaments for my tree this year. I want to have as many handmade items added to my tree this year and as tattered and primitive as it can be. I searched all over. "I SEAM TO SEARCH ALOT" and I should know by now I always end up making it myself, so I have to so stop searching and begin designing right of :-).

I looked at one of my small tin stars I had and just knew there had to be a way to fold the card stock to create the star.

By Golly I did find a star online with the score lines drawn on it for folding, so I went right to work on how I interpreted it visually for others.

Begin with a star cut out by hand or if your lucky enough like me to have a cricut cutter cut out a star the size you want it to be. You can also make them several diffirent sizes.

"BE SURE IT IS A 5 POINTED STAR"

I cut mine out to be a 6" star

You will then score from one star point to a star hill as I call it.

Below is a star with the scoring marks done in pencil for you to see where to score

Once you have scored all you lines you will then fold up all the points.

I call this creating the hills.

You will then create the Vallie's

Now that you have all your score lines folded you will then fold them all together to give shape to the star.

Once all folded together squeeze it at the top

Open the star and push down in the center. Your star is now complete.

I sponged the edge of the star with Burgundy ink to give it a rustic feel and adhered it to a folded Rosette ornament with two dimensionals.

BLUE MOCHA VINTAGE APRON COUTURE

2011-11-14T22:22:00.000-05:00

I made this beautiful apron set for a dear friend. This is going to look very nice on her as she has red hair so you can just imagine how nice this will look!

I started with the See & Sew pattern "Butterick 5125" and altered it to give it a two tone. I also wanted it to be reversible with a solid print on the back side.

I just had t make a matching Chef hat for her so that when her granddaughters came for a day of baking they can all wear their specialized apron couture.

PINK PETALS VINTAGE APRON ENSEMBLE

2011-11-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

This Apron set was created for two little sisters as Christmas gifts. I took a standard apron child's pattern that I had from a couple years ago and altered it by adding ruffles and a ribbon rose on the pocket. I also added some flower eyelet white trim to the top of the pocket.

This one was a little tricky to complete as I wanted it to be a reversible apron with the ruffles not sewn into the sides of the apron. After using my seam stripper a lot I finally did figure it out.

I just love the hat and mitts!

I had to do many attempts at the hat sizes for the two little ones I made this set for.

I created them to be an extra small and small apron and hat sizes so that they were a custom fit for a 3T and 6T. I made a flower rose with Grossgrain 1" ribbon by gathering it and sewing it together.

Below are the instructions for adding ruffles to a reversible apron pattern.

PINK PETALS VINTAGE APRON INSTRUCTIONS

SEW YOU THINK YOU CAN SEW

2011-11-11T06:14:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to have come upon this site in my blog walking this morning. I keep telling my family and friends that one day I will be on Project Runway (of course my talents a tad limited to be on that show). I of course entered to be a part of this Web Runway per say.

WISH ME LUCK!!!

My first entry is the cute Peasant dress I made a set of sisters

CHRISTMAS STAR BOX

2011-11-09T18:12:00.000-05:00

I took a break from sewing this weekend and made some Christmas boxes. I found an awesome site called "My Time Made Easy" there are several cut files and many other goodies.

You can take and size the cut file to the sizes you want. Just be sure you size them all together .

The box I made measures 6x6 width and 2" in depth.

I made the poinsettia from another svg file I had and used a silver gel pen on the edges to make it pop.

RIBBON STORAGE HOLDER

2011-11-07T20:23:00.000-05:00

Once again "JACKPOT" at "MARDENS" I found many styles of ribbon for .25 to .50 cents a spool so I of course bought SEVERAL this only shows a small portion of what I have. I then had to think of a way to incorporate some type of ribbon storage for my shelves in my sewing area in my craft room.

I came upon some spring curtain rods at Family dollar for $3.00 and thought hhhhmmmm would that work!!!!!

By GOLLY GEE it did. I did however have to put a staple right under each end to stop it from slipping down due to the rubber ends and smooth service.

This keeps all my ribbon organized by color. I have 3-4 more to add to the shelving unit and will also have some little bins to store some misc ribbon items on the shelf.

I have some ribbon in jars on top of the spooled ribbon shelve. Most are pieces that I have cut for projects or ends of the spool salvages.

RIBBON CARNATION TUTORIAL

2011-11-07T20:01:00.000-05:00

Start with a 15" length of ruffled/gathered ribbon. I found this great ribbon at MARDENS for .20 a yard "I KNOW RIGHT BARGAIN"

I thread a needle with coordinating thread and start on the end of one side of the ribbon. You will then take the ribbon and start gathering it together in a circle and sew it in place as you go to form the carnation. Set aside and start the hairband.

Cut a piece of fabric 2 x 32 and iron it in half length wise wrong sides together (just like you make your own binding). Take it to you sewing machine open it up so that you can match the two ends with right sides together and sew the ends with a 1/4 seam.

This now creates the casing for the elastic to feed through. Fold the casing back together to have it look like binding casing again so that all wrong sides are together and hidden. I then sew a straight stitch on the very edge of the open end of the casing. Leave a 1" opening to feed elastic through.

Cut a piece of 1/4 elastic 16" and feed it through with a safety pin. Sew the two ends together and close opening. Your band is now down. Sew the Ribbon Carnation to the band. Carnation hairband is now done. !!!

LINKED PARTIES

RICH FALL PEASANT DRESS

2011-11-07T19:24:00.002-05:00

This is another style peasant dress I made for a set of sisters for Thanksgiving. I love the rich deep colors and they complement each other. With so many fabric prints created today the styles and deigns are limitless. I combine several prints of fabric that I probley wouldn't have done years ago.

I bought some ruffled ribbon at MARDENS and just hadn't used it yet until I created this cute little carnation from it, now I am going to go buy a bunch more just to have a surplus of the ribbon. Having the ribbon already ruffled/gathered makes it very easy to create this beautiful flower.

Instructions can be found HERE to make the flower.

I made matching hairbands to go with the dresses. They are very easy to make. Just take the ribbon and keep gathering it together in a circle and sew it together as you go. I used the same fabric as the ruffles on the dresses to make the band part of the hair piece. I cut a piece of 1/4 elastic. and create a casing from the fabric. I actual create the casing like I would make a 1" binding.

Instructions can be found HERE.

LINKED PARTIES

BUTTERFLY GLITTER SHIRRED DRESS

2011-11-07T18:55:00.001-05:00

When I first saw this beautiful fabric with the gold sparkle I just knew who it would be for and what I would be making.

I made this shirred Summer dress for my girlfriends daughter Meghan. The Fabric has beautiful gold butterfly's on a green background print. I added some gold crown trim to the bottom hem and the trim on the shoulder straps. The shoulder straps were made from some black velvet ribbon I had. The dress was finished off with a 1" velvet ribbon to tie around the waste.

I bought some gathered ribbon about a year ago at "MARDENS" but never could come up with a project to use it on. This worked out great to make my carnation flower. I placed the finished flower on the right side shoulder of the dress and made a hairband with another flower attached to it.

LINKED PARTIES

PRIMITIVIE STARS

2011-10-27T05:43:00.001-04:00

It is the start of the craft fair season and I just love this time of year. I love to see all the great creations and new ideas that come out each year. Primitive decor is starting to be a leading decor in most homes here in Northern Maine.

At one of the booths I came upon these adorable little stars tied together in a row. I new just what I wanted to do with them.

I took them home and went to work. They came painted with no vinyl sayings and had not been antiqued and that was the finished look I wanted. I loved the shape of theses stars as they are thick and have a slightly different shape than most of the primitive stars on the market. They also had a beveled edge that gave them a more 3 dimensional look.

I sanded the edges with a nail file to give it an antiqued or worn look and then added vinyl lettering. Hubby is going to make me some more so that I can give them as Christmas gifts this season to my Family and Friends.

I had just the perfect spot for them. when you first enter my home you see the stairs, so I wanted everyone see see that my home is BLESSED by GOD.

So now every time you first walk in you see my little stars and the blessings of my home.

LINKY PARTIES

Couture Girl Dresses

2011-10-26T18:21:00.004-04:00

BOW TWIRL DRESS

I have found my new addiction for sewing. I was searching the web once again for some great little girl dresses to make and came upon Whimsy Couture blog and just feel in love with her patterns that you can purchase at Etsy.

She has some of the cutest patterns I have come across that can be very versatile and can have many looks once you add trim and embellishments.

The pink dress above and the cute red ones Below are made with her Bow Twirl Dress Instructions using the shirring technique.

This dress can be worn two ways with the bow in the back or in the front. Make a peticoat to go underneath and it will bow out and give it a fuller look.

A LINE TUNIC DRESS

The next one I found was a very simply style dress but has a touch of elegance once you add all the embellshments.

This was a very easy dress to make and matching the inside lining so that it can be worn on either side was fun.

LINKED PARTIES

PATTERN TRACING

2011-10-26T06:15:00.000-04:00

So for years I have bought several patterns of one style so that I would have all the sizes I needed cut for that pattern and saved for all the sizes. Well how foolish of me RIGHT! Who new you could trace them, so off I went on tracing and failed several times as the pattern would keep shifting or even the paper on top. UGHHHH frustration once again and back to buying several packets of the same pattern.

Then a light bulb came on for me and I came up with an idea, now this one might already be out there but in my travels through the web I have yet to come upon it so I thought I would share how I trace my small to medium pieces patterns and how I store them.

Instructions with smaller pattern pieces to medium. (I just tape larger pieces to my work table and trace with freezer paper in pieces)

I cut out the pattern with all sizes first and then iron it out nice and flat.

Next I will then add double sided tape to the back of the pattern and adhere it to a piece of paper or card stock. The card stock works the best as it will not fold easly or tear and stores flat. I use 8.5 x 10, 12 x 12, 11 x 14 and some poster board for larger pieces.

Now that you have your patterns adhered to the paper you can now begin tacing

I use freezer paper for almost all my pattern pieces and those who do appliquing knows this is a great way to work with patterns as they can be ironed in place on fabric so that they do not move around so much therefore I do not have to pin I just trace the pattern with my chalk. I place the freezer paper on top of my patterns and tape it down to my table so that it does not shift on me. Be sure to use a ruler to get your lines straight and the key is to trace slow.

I trace everything from the pattern to the freezer paper. I find using a mechanic pencil works the best for me as it is very thin.

Now that your pattern is traced you can now cut them out.

I store all my pattern pices in a ziplock bag and try to keep all pieces nice an flat so as not to place any folds or creases in them. I keep a backet full of these standing up.

PEASANT DRESS

2011-10-18T19:35:00.002-04:00

I was once again shopping at "MARDENS" yes my favorite surplus store in all of Maine. They had this Awesome book for $3.99 full of sewing instructions and the patterns to create little girls Boutique clothing by Mary Abreu.

I decided to try my hand at the Peasant dress with the ruffled layers. At first I looked at all the patterns and measurements and thought ahhhhh piece of cake. NOPE the ruffled layers a little more challenging than I thought.

After several tries and broken ruffled stitches I almost gave up. Then it hit me !!!! DON'T sew a long ruffle stitch along the whole piece but quarter it and pin it then run a straight ruffle stitch.

So I thought I would share how I did it with everyone.

I already added the green bottom layer to the layers. That layer was done the same way I will explain below.

RUFFLED ATTACHMENT INSTRUCTIONS

I first line up the piece one on top of the other the bottom layer wrong side out and the top right side out.

Once I have the layers matched up I then fold the bottom black and green layers in half

I then make creases on each of the ends as this will be used as my center marks to match up for my quarter sections

Now open up the bottom layer to start matching the marks

Pin the right end section of the bottom layer to the right end of the top layer

Next the front centers

Then the left ends

Lastly the back center and you now have your 4 quarter sections pinned and ready to start your straight long stitch to create the gathering for each section.

Place each section in your sewing maatching and do a long stitch or following your machines stitching directions to create ruffle or gathering.

I hope this was helpful in constructing a garment that has severals rows of long gathers

I finished off the Peasant dress with a cute fabric bow

LINKY PARTIES

PILLOWCASE DRESS

2011-10-04T17:07:00.002-04:00

These adorable dresses and instruction can be found all over the Internet. I was doing a search for summer dress patterns for little girls and came upon a site and I just new I had to be a part of.

It is called

"Little Dresses for Africa"

This is a great organization that works to get dresses over to Africa to give to the little girls there. It is a non-profit organization reaching out to touch others in a way that will be greatly appreciated by so many girls over there.

Read all about this great organization at the link below

LITTLE DRESSES FOR AFRICA

My goal is to try and make 100 in the next few months to send over there

If you would like to help out you can also make dresses to send to Africa. All the direction to make the dresses and instruction for mailing them can be found on their site or at the link below

LITTLE DRESSES FOR AFRICA DRESS DIRECTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

The instruction start at size 3 up to size 12

It only takes 4 easy steps to make this adorable dress and a small amount of material anywhere from a yard to 1/4 of a yard.

When shipping the dresses be sure that you indicate the size each dress is then roll them into 2 gallon ziplock bags. try and fit as many as you can into one bag. All smalls together all mediums together and so on. This helps with the shipping process.

You can create several different styles with this very easy pattern as you can see listed below these are some of the styles I have come up with. Just image the little girls that you will place a smile on t heir face when they receive a bright whimsical dress. With so many Fabric patterns out there you could really have fun.

This is a size 5T (this one is actually made for a friends daughter)

This one is a size 2T ( also made for my girlfriends youngest daughter)

Is this one not just ADORABLE I even added some ric rack on the top of the red material of the hem. I changed the measurements of the length of the dress to accommodate a 4 inch coordinating fabric for the hem. I will have my instructions for this one written up later this week and posted.

FAMILY MONOGRAM TILES 2

2011-09-24T09:13:00.000-04:00

What a perfect home warming or wedding gift to give to a new couple.

This one was made for my sister and her new husband.

The monogram was purchased as an alphabet set from

"My Vinyl Designer"

Pumpkin Poop Treats

2011-09-24T08:30:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that it is already fall here in Northern Maine.

I thought I would bring a goody but oldy back out and offer the instructions for this cute little treat favors. They are great for any fall party or even for Thanksgiving.

You can get the instructions by clicking on the link below.

The poem is included in this post at the bottom that I place on the back of the box.

PUMPKIN POOP TREAT BOX INSTRUCTION

Pumpkin Poop

I started to carve a pumpkin

With my carving knife and scoop,

But the pumpkin got so scared

That he took a little poop!

It looked so cute and funny

Just like a candy treat.

So I am sharing it with you now

Because you are so sweet

IN MEMORY OF ASHLEE ROSE

2011-09-24T08:14:00.000-04:00

Its been just over a year since Ashlee Rose left us to be home with Jesus. We miss her dearly every day and know we will all be together once again.

I wanted to create a memorial plaque for the family as we had a beautiful memorial to her this past September 3rd to Celebrate her life.

It was done here at my home in Northern Maine where I live on a lake.

It was simply beautiful.

"ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS"

BLACK & WHITE POLKA DOT DINNER PARTY DRESS

2011-09-24T08:08:00.001-04:00

This reminds me of the 60's when us women used to be stay at home wives and make all those lovely homemade meals. LOL LOL. They would get dressed up for their dinner guest when they had a gathering at their homes.

I came across the fabric at "YES MARDENS" for 2.99 a yard and just had to have it. I knew exactly what I wanted to make and which pattern I would be using.

The added necklace lends just enough touch of class to dress up the dress even more.

I used butterick pattern number B5317 (fast & easy)

FAMILY MONOGRAM TILES

2011-08-18T21:45:00.002-04:00

Creating these tiles are fun and I can become very creative. I have always wanted to be a graphic designer and this is the closet I think I will come to being one.

I am now once again taking orders for the up coming holiday season.

Here are a couple that are done on tiles so that you can see how nice they realy do look

If you would like to order a monogram tile with your family name you may contact me by email at northerngirlstamper@yahoo.com

DENIM STRETCH TUBE TOP

2011-08-17T06:54:00.000-04:00

I still had some material left over from my denim stretch that I purchased at "MARDENS" so I wanted to make a tube top to wear with my white Capri's or shorts. The instructions are below.

MATERIAL

1/2 yard Denim stretch Fabric

Blue floral embellishment

White Daisey embellishment

1/4" elastic for waste and top of bust

INSTRUCTIONS

I cut two pieces out by first measuring my bust which mine is 36

so I cut the top piece out at 23 x 4 on FOLD out giving me a top piece of 46 x 4

for the bottom piece I cut this out 23 x 13 on fold

Sew the top and the bottom long sides together with a 1" seam allowance as this will create the casing for the elastic.

Overcast the edge of the seam for a finished look

Iron the seam towards the top part

Now sew the seam to the top part of the top to create the casing

Measure a piece of 1/4 elastic around your waste and cut to the size you would like. I cut mine my exact size.

Sew the side seam with a 1/2 seam allowance

Now that your casing has been created feed through the elastic with a safety pin

Hem the top using a 1/2 seam allowance leaving a 2" opening to create a casing for the top elastic. Once again measure a piece of 1/4 elastic for the top of your bust.

Feed it through the top casing. sew opening closed

Now you will iron the bottom hem and add any trim to the bottom to sew the hem. I added a cute little blue floral trim.

Measure you shoulder straps the length you desire I usually do 13" Cut the trim to desired length and attach to the top of the garment.

MY BEST WHOOPI PIE RECIPE

2011-08-16T20:21:00.000-04:00

I have been making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies for the past two years trying to perfect the recipe and by golly "I DID IT". This recipe is my perfect blend and yes I am so sharing it with everyone because it is a must have. If you do make them please let me know how they came out.

The following recipe will yield 28 whoopi pies

INGREDIENTS

Whoopie Pies

6 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon ground cloves

1 tablespoon pumpkin spice

3 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1/2 tablespoon All spice

2 tablespoon ground ginger

2 teaspoon salt

4 cups firmly packed dark-brown sugar

2 cup vegetable oil

6 cups pumpkin puree (I always use libby's)

4 large eggs

2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Creamy Cream-Cheese Filling

2 stick butter softened

2 - 8 ounce cream cheese also softened

6 cups confectioners' sugar

2 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Use nonstick cookie sheets or line cookie sheets with parchment paper

Use a hand whisker do not use an electric beater

DIRECTIONS

Making the Whoopie pies

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients from the flour to the salt ; place to the side. In another large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and the vegetable oil until mixture is completly blended. Add pumpkin puree and whisking until combined. Add eggs and vanilla and whisk until well combined.

Slowly combine the flour mixture over the pumpkin mixture and whisk them until blended. The mixture will be a little sticky that’s when you know it’s at has been mixed correctly.

Using a large heaping tablespoon Drop it onto the prepared cookie sheet being sure to place them at least an inch apart for expansion. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Do not overcook as they will continue to cookie once they are on the racks cooling. Place on cooling racks to cool down.

Creamy Cream Cheese filling

Beat butter and cream cheese until nice and smooth. Add confectioners' sugar and vanilla, continue to beat until very smooth

Once the whoopie pies have cooled you will spread the filling onto one half of a whoopie pie and Sandwich with another pie. I wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. You must store them in a Refrigerator. The whoopie pies can stay good for up to 3-4 days once in the refrigerator.

ENJOY

PEANUT BUTTER CARMEL ICE CREAM CAKE

2011-08-15T20:49:00.001-04:00

Summer is all about the great desserts that are made to enjoy with all your family and friends at the cookouts and barbecues. I have seen so many types of ice cream cakes and many different versions so I decided to come up with a unique one myself. My version is a Peanut butter Carmel version. Below is the instructions on how I made mine.

INGREDIENTS

Peanut butter Cream Cookies (just like Oreo's but they are peanut butter)

1 tub cool whip

1 Bottle Carmel sauce

Toffe Bits

Peanut Butter Cups

Ice Cream Sandwiches

DIRECTIONS

Take the Peanut butter cookies and cruch them in a ziplock bag and spread them in the bottom of the pan. Squeeze some carmel over the crumbs.

Spread a layer of Cool whip

Layer 1 box of Ice cream sandwiches

Spread a layer of Carmel Sauce and cut up the bite size peanut butter cups and sprinkle on top of the carmel sauce

Another layer of Cool Whip

Sprinkle a layer of toffee bits and peanut butter cups

Chill for a couple hours and serve.

LINK PARTIES

BLACK PASLEY PRINT SUMMER DRESS

2011-08-15T20:07:00.002-04:00

I love making summer dresses and playing with different patterns to get just the right look I am looking for. When I am looking at a pattern I look to see what other types of styles can I make with that one pattern. I also like to interchange my patterns to create a new design.

This dress was created using the McCalls Pattern #4450.

I cut the pattern to the length I desired and then cut the fabric out. I used a somewhat silky shear fabric and used a black Jersey stretch knit as the lining.

LINK PARTIES

MONOGRAHM TILES

2011-08-15T19:51:00.001-04:00

What a perfect gift to give a new home owner or as a wedding gift for the new couple. I love creating these tiles and the designs are limitless. Hubby drills holes in each upper corners so that I can use leather straps to hang the tile. I design most of my creations in Powerpoint and convert it to a .jpg to import and trace in SCAL.

ALEXA AND RACHEL SUMMER DRESSES

2011-08-02T17:07:00.001-04:00

Are they not just too cute. These two adorable sisters are my cute little models and do such a great job. They both came over yesterday and picked out the fabrics that they wanted their dresses to be. This is such an easy style to make and you can add so many elements to it.

I used the contrasting dark thread to do the shirring technique to make it pop and I think it looks great. I will be trying out different stitch designs on the next set of dresses I create and maybe add some ruffles here and there.

Rachel's red hair compliments the fabric just perfect and yes that is "Tinker Bell" on the bottom hem and top trim fabric.

I used Gross grain ribbon this time for the shoulder straps. I sewed a long piece of ribbon to one side at the waste to create a bow around the other side to dress it up.

You can get the written instructions I created with step by step directions and photo's at the link below.

SHIRRED DRESS INSTRUCTIONS

Linked Parties I have entered into:

Not just a House Wife

PERFECT HEM EVERYTIME

2011-07-31T09:02:00.000-04:00

To create a straight hem every time I run a straight stitch along the whole end. This works great for curves also so don't be intimidated by those curves.

I then take it to my iron and press over right at the stitch line ¼ of an inch and then fold over and press another ¼ of an inch.

Stitch a straight stitch along the whole end. I match the edge of my pressure foot to the fabric for a perfect straight stitched seam.

SHIRRED SUMMER DRESSES FOR GIRL INSTRUCTIONS

2011-07-31T08:26:00.000-04:00

This is a great sewing technique for a quick and easy summer dress or top to be made for any age at all. You can add any embellishments and trims along with a combination of fabrics. My two cute little models picked out their materials and what the length of the dress they wanted it to be.

The first dresses print is a fat quarter bundles I bought at MARDENS yes my favorite fabric store Mardens. you can not see the full print in the photos, but trust me they are vibrant and full of color's of green's and blues. I made the little matching hobo handbag to go with the dress as they just love purses.

I searched all over the web for a small sling/hobo handbag to make, but could not find one so I created this pattern and will have it scanned and uploaded to share.

The second dress is just precious with the pink and black and the two prints together have to be my favorite combination.

Look at her just sporting that little handbag

I need to work on my closeup photo's as these are a little blurry, but it does show some of the detail of the flower. On these I pulled apart the flower after I had sewn it all together in the layers to give it more body. Instructions for this one cane be found HERE.

"WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS BELOW

Shirred Dress

BLUE HAWIAN SUMMER DRESS

2011-07-27T05:59:00.002-04:00

This style is a very fast and easy dress to make. Its perfect for any occasion or just to wear around the house or over a bathing suite.

You can make it as long or as short as you would like.

You can have shoulder straps of any style to accent the top part. The straps can be on each shoulder, cross ways in the back or tie around the neck.

Have fun with several designs. Add embellishments like I did HERE to my little white dress.

I added a silk 2" ribbon with a beautiful teal and brown print.

I did 25 rows of shirring for this paticular dress, I have all my measurements listed below. I also found a great youtube video from Threadbanger so hop over and check it out

YOUTUBE VIDEO - HOW TO MAKE A SUMMER DRESS - SHIRRING

MATERIAL'S I USED

Fabric of your choice

cotton thread that matches your material

elastic thread for bottom bobbin - "hand wind" do not machine wind this thread

I first measure my bodies width and add 1.5x for the shirring - cut 2

Next the length I want the dress to be plus 1/2" for th eseam allowance on both ends

For this dress my girlfriend is a 38 so the width of each fabric piece is 57"

The length I did is 46" so then you would need (2) pieces cut at 57 x 46

Now sew the side seams of the two fabrics together only on one side

You will first do the hems on each top and bottom of the dress before you start shirring

Begin to shir and add as many rows as you would like.

LINKED PARTIES

Blue Cricket Design

BLACK & WHITE HANDBAG

2011-07-23T07:38:00.000-04:00

Another handbag I made for a dear friend. The prints of the two Fabrics work just perfect together. I added an outside pocket that is the width of the handbag in the front and finished it off with some MARDENS "ric rak" that I purchased for .20 cents a yard.

The inside has another long pocket on one side and a small on on the other and closes with a magnetic snap.

The ribbon was made using 1" Grossgrain ribbon. The tutorial for the flower can be found at this AWESOME blog "THATS SO CUEGLY"

I have a Janome 9700 Memory craft sewing machine that has so many features that I have never used at all. I decided to play around with some of the design stitching and just love how the handles came out. I have used my sewing machine for sewing and embroidering but never the design stitches feature. I will be using that again.

SPARKLING SUMMER DRESS & HANDBAG

2011-07-22T21:16:00.000-04:00

An AMAZING friend of mine just loves all the work I do and she is my number one fan.

She bought some material and wanted me to make a summer dress for her to wear to a wedding.

The material is a beautiful print she found at Wal-mart. It has sparkles of silver throughout the material. When you first look at the material you think WOW that's loud, but it worked great for the summer dress I made.

I used the silver trim for the outline of the bodies to accent all the silver in the dress.

With the extra material I had left I made a matching little handbag for her to take to the wedding.

DIAPER CAKE

2011-07-22T20:49:00.003-04:00

JUST ADORABLE

I did some searching on google to come up with a great baby shower gift and I came across the baby diaper ensembles. I just feel in love with them and just had to try my own version. This are great gifts to give the new mother to be and is full of little surprises.

Gather your supplies and all your baby items that you want in your diaper cake

My list consisted of:

Cotton Balls

Cotton Swabs

1 Large baby Bottle

2 Small Baby Bottles

Receiving Blankets (I used 4)

Baby Blankets (I used 2)

Wash Clothes (for the roses)

100 Diapers

Elastic Bands (I don't wrap each diaper)

Ribbon

Cuddle Stuffed Animals

Baby Bathing items

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the 3 bottles with the cotton swabs and cottonm balls

I placed the large baby bottle in the center of my base templateand drew a circle around the bottle. The base is used as a guide in construction the bottom half of the diaper cake.

Place a rubber band around the baby bottle

You will now start to roll your diapers. I dont go by an exact count for each level I just keep filling untill I have the circular shape and size I want.

I start rolling from the open end to the bottom end of the diaper, rolling it nice and tight.

(I choose not to place an elastic around each diaper as I find it still keeps it's shape once you place it in the elastic)

Start to insert the diapers around the bottle untill you have the exact shape you want and how wide you want the bottom base. I did three rows for the bottom base.

Take one of the receiving blankets (keep it folded just as it was packaged) and fold it up 1/4 of the way at the bottom.

Wrap it around the bottom base of the diaper cake. I used straight pins to hold it together.

Tie your Ribbon around the base. Start creating the next level by adding another elastic and add your diapers.

Add another recieving blanket folding up 1/4 fold t the bottom.

I created the last top layer just by adding diapers around the small baby bottle and then taking the bottle away so that I can place a receiving blanket to the top popping out.

Wrapp another receiving blanket to the top layer and place the last recieving blanket and place it in the top layer

Top off with the Teddy Bear holding the blanket

Finsih the diaper cake with ribbon aand any goodies you would like to add. I made baby washcloth roses to finish mine off with just a touch of simplicity.

Add as many cake pieces as you want. I added two more to each side of the layered ones. I constructed these using the small baby bottles.

LINKED PARTIES

BUNK HOUSE MAKEOVER

2011-07-08T06:17:00.000-04:00

With summer here we have a lot of guest here on the lake so this year I redid the guest house we call the bunk house.

For years I have always had mismatched blanckets in our little Bunk House and never painted the walls or floor as it was just plain wood untreated. There was no decor in there and was pretty much justt a little building with beds in it.

I made rag quilts from Flannel Fabric

Matching curtains, and look at that view from the window. It may not be the Ritz but it is cozy.

BEAR & DEER RAG QUILT

2011-06-25T07:42:00.000-04:00

I made this woodsy rag quilt for my sons birthday. With me making so many he wanted one but of course he had to be rustic looking.

I used my 6 x 24 quilting ruler and did each block 6 x 12. This was a very easy rag quilt to make.

LITTLE WHITE SHIRRED SUMMER DRESS

2011-06-24T19:38:00.000-04:00

I finally figured out how to do shirring and now I am addicted and will be making several shirts and summer dresses for the summer season.

I love this style and many fabrics can be used. I used a shear white fabric with the beautiful black scroll work design and lined it with black non static lining fabric.

You can select the length of the dress you would like from short to long.

Any little cardigan or shrug complements this style perfectly.

PATRIOTIC HANDBAG INSTRUCTIONS/TUTORIAL

2011-06-24T18:52:00.005-04:00

This little handbag is the one I will be making for the class I am doing at Mardins this Tuesday. We will be making the little handbag and a matching popover summer dress size 5 child size. I wanted to share the instructions here first and see how I did on writing the instructions for everyone in the class. They want me to teach several sewing classes their so I would love to get any feed back.

You can get the Instructions Below

Patchwork Handbag

COFFEE & JAVA TIME TILES

2011-06-24T18:38:00.000-04:00

My Vinyl Designer is my all time favorite site to buy already made svg files for cutting with my cricut cutter and SCAL.

I saw this Modern Art package and just feel in love with it. It us Modern Art #7 and is full of coffee and java svg files to create endless creations and projects for friends and family members.

Be sure to also check out My Vinyl Designers facebook as every Friday they have Strut your stuff Friday's a great place to share your creations and see inspirations for other crafter's.

STORAGE SOLUTION

2011-06-23T19:31:00.001-04:00

With all the new Ric Rac, Trim & Ribbon I bought from "MARDINS" great prices I had to come up with a storage solution. I wanted to be able to keep them handy and close to my sewing table. So I looked all around the house and found my old stash of canning jars and jars I saved over the years for just in case. I also used some vases.

This miss match of jars and vases work just perfect for each of the different styles of Ric Rac, trim and ribbon.

This is my sewing side of my studio. I like to have everything handy and reachable from my table

I took a 8 x 8 picture frame and backed it with a pretty piece of Cardstock. I then used my cricut cutter and cut out the quote and applied it to the top of the frame. I bought a black dry eraser pen and TADA I now have a dry eraser frame.

I place my Ric Rac in vase and any fat quarter bundles in baskets. The boxes are full of "This & That"

All my quilting rulers are placed in a bill organizer I bought for 1.00. It works perfect

My Fat quarter single pieces are nice and tidy in this cute little basket at the top left.

I have my most often used patterns stored in Magazine holders and a basket for those I am using for projects in progress.

The basket in the bottom left corner is some projects I am working on that need to be finished with a two week time period.

The bottom right hand are all my patterns I print from the internet saved in each a gallon storage bag. Under that are all my magaizenes and instruction booklets

The top left is my rolled fabric pieces I have bought, the little vase is full of ribbon flowers already made.

The top right mason jars are just the perfect size for any Ric Rac I have on hand.

In the lower left is just some of my threads. They are the most common used colors I use. The little basket is full of bobbins.

The bottom right is some more material I have on hand.

I have a beautiful view of the lake looking out the two front windows.

This little corner closet actually does hold a lot. I have all my batting and my scraps of material stored in there. Mt scraps are saved by color in Ziploc bags. My scrapbooking scraps are also saved the same way on the bottom shelf's. I have more patterns and all my notions stored in little drawers and storage units.

The other side of my studio is my scrapbooking section

Not only do I love to sew but I also love anything paper crafting. SoOOOOO of course I have a side for scrapbooking.

The table was made from an old counter top my hubby had

The card holder is a very old picture "Home Interior" picture I had that I took and convertered it into this great card display.

I store a lot of my supplies in jars and small and large vases

Hubby made me the cup holder for my many colored pencils and gel pens. I used just plain white plastic cups.

My nestabilities hang ready to be used on my little dry eraser board.

I took an old wood spice rack and painted it black. This holds all my scrapbook embellishments like my brads and eyelets along with my hodge podge collections.

REVERSIBLE MATCHING APRONS & CHEF HATS

2011-06-22T20:27:00.000-04:00

Aprons have become extremely popular today. You can choose from several fun fabrics that can be matched with so many coordinating styles. A co-worker asked me if I could do some matching aprons for her two daughters. I took on the challenge. I headed over to MARDINS which is my favorite fabric store in case you don't already know. I spent hours coordinating the fabrics and just had so much fun picking out the styles.

I had to make a mother and two daughters ensemble. The two daughters are 5 and 1. I did not have a pattern for the toddler one so I had to create my own and I love how it came out.

The next set is for the mother and 5 year old daughter and they both match the toddler apron.

This next set is for her other daughter and son

DAISEY & DENIM STRETCH SUMMER TOP

2011-06-17T06:50:00.000-04:00

the fabric is a denim stretch and at first I didnt think it would work for this pattern, but once I added the daisy embellishment trim it worked very well.

MARDINS TRIM, RIBBON & RICK RAC

2011-06-17T06:15:00.000-04:00

"YOU SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT IT WHEN YOU SAY IT AT MARDINS"

I love, Love, Love Mardins. They have the most amazing prices not only on their fabric but also on their Rick Rack. Yes starting from .30 cents to .99 cents. You want to always check frequently as they get new truck loads of product all the time and you just never know what little gem is waiting for you.

Creams, Ivories and whites lend such a vintage or elegant look to any clothing you may be designing. Take an ordinary pattern and embellish it with lace trim or rick rac and you have just turned your handmade item into a one of a kind.

Pictured above is some eyelet ruffled trim and crocheted lace.

The deep rich colors will work very well with shades lighter to embelish any item. They actualy have a good selection to choose from.

THE SEWERS PRICING WORKBOOK

2011-06-10T06:48:00.000-04:00

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

I have been getting several requests
to make a lot of my handmade items for co-works, neighbors and friends and just
never knew what to price it at.

SOOOO after researching all over the net and
comparing what other crafters are doing I came up with an excel spreadsheet/workbook
that will calculate everything for me.

I added a purchase order so that I can
wright up the order before hand and they will know what the price is. I also now
have to give a two week lead time as I also work part time. I added in a cost
breakdown for all my trim & notions along with some guides. This is just a
simple version of what else I will be adding to help me keep track of
everything.

YES I am a detail oriented individual LOL. I am sharing it with all
of you fellow sewers. I add my logo at the top of the purchase order and
invoices but I left it blank in this copy so that you can add yours. I also
added some sample trims and notions so you can see how it works. I already have
the calculation in there for you so that it breaks it down. ENJOY.

If you have any questions or something in the workbook does not work let me know at northerngirlstamper@yahoo.com

I will be updating this in the next month adding new features so if you would like the update please let me know by email or leaving a comment here.

PRINCESS CAPE

2011-06-09T06:10:00.000-04:00

This is so adorable and very easy to make. The hard part was working with the material as the edges kept rolling as I was trying to hem it.

I measured the little girl this was made for from the back of the neck to the floor. Then I measure from shoulder to shoulder and double that. So her measurements were 41 x 15 I cut my material on the fold at 45".

Then did a straight hem on both the sides of the material and the bottom. I then pinned the fur to the top while also creating a casing for the ribbon to be woven through the top hem all the way through. Just like a drawstring casing.

Very easy to make and fun for the little ones to wear.

FLOWERS POPOVER DRESS

2011-06-09T05:53:00.001-04:00

Everyone in my area just loves this little pop over dress. I was asked by my neighbor to make one for her granddaughter for her birthday. I added some applique from the fabric to the yellow top of the dress.

I also made a matching little handbag to go with it. I chose the bright yellow to accent the rich colors of the wine material. The little flower on the handbag is one of my favorites to make and very easy. You can have it lay flat with beads or buttons in the center or fluff it up by adding layers.

SUNSHINES AND FLOWERS SUNDRESS AND HANDBAG ENSEMBLE

2011-06-03T06:36:00.000-04:00

I meet Kate the fabric manager at Mardins in Madawaska upon shopping last week and she told me about a great program here in Northern Maine for all us sewers.

You decide on a sewing project you would like to create, choose the fabric to create the project and get it for free right then and there. You then have 2 weeks to complete the project and bring it back to the store. Mardins will then hang your finished items for 3 weeks in the fabric department and once the 3 weeks are up you get your items back. What a great program. Fabric for free and finished projects back at the end of the 3 weeks how could I say no to that.

This is my first project I did for the summer season. I just love how bright the colors are and they coordinate so well together. I love it so much this will also be my fabric of choice for a twin bed quilt I am making for my spare bedroom.

The dress pattern is one of my favorites to make and the pattern is a free download from "OLIVER +S COMPANY" you can get it by clicking on the link HERE.

The ribbon flower was created using 1" silk ribbon and the tutorial can be found HERE.

FLOWER APPLIQUE SUMMER DRESS

2011-05-22T07:36:00.000-04:00

I just love making little girl dress and mix matching the material. There are so many bright and vibrant colors to choose from now and yes all from my favorite fabric store "MARDINS". You can't beat the prices I pay anywhere from 2.99-4.99 a yard for my cotton prints.

This is the second dress I made this week for two adorable little sisters.

I used McCalls "Stitch & save pattern # 6305"

This is a very easy and simple pattern to make and you can make it as a dress, short outfit or pants. The combinations are limitless with so many great fabrics out there.

Here is the closeup of the appliqueing I did. I still have not been brave enough yet to sew my appliques on. I have made several attempts but just can't seem to stay on the applique. I still have to practice.

SOOOOOOOO I Iron them on with fusible webbing and that works okay for now but I do want to learn to sew all my appliques on.

I finished the flowers off with each having a little button in the center.

FLOWER PRINT RAG QUILT

2011-05-18T06:38:00.000-04:00

3-D FAIRIES BIRTHDAY CARD

2011-05-18T06:12:00.000-04:00

I started decorating my white envelopes that I have a large supply of to match the cards I make.

I used my Prismacolors and Gamsol to color in the images and mounted them with dimensionals.

Recipe Card

Card Stock - Stampin up So Sarah Sand
Printed Paper - DCWV Latte
Digital Stamps - Prairie Fairy - "Fairy Little", "Tippy Toe Fairy", "Daffodils"
Embellishments - (3) purple snaps, dimensionals, ribbon

YELLOW SUMMER POP OVER DRESS

2011-05-17T07:53:00.000-04:00

The signs of spring for us here in Northern Maine would be the buttercups that pop up all over the edge of the loggign roads. It is such a beautiful site with the vibrant yellows.

I found this darling fabric at Mardins YES Mardins by far my favorite fabric store here in Northern Maine. WAIT oh thats right the only fabric store for 300 miles LOL. I have two Mardins to shop at one to the South of me about an hour away and one to the north of me about an hour away.

The Fabric flower was created using the tutorial I have HERE on my blog for the first layer.

The second part of the flower is done with a 3/4" grossgrain ribbon. Set your sewing machine tension on the highest, mine is 9 and set your stitch length to the longest straight stitch your machine will do.

I cut the ribbon for this one at 22" and then sewed a straight sticth along one long side and watched the majic begin. You will want to be sure to watch where it starts to curl as the first time I ran a piece throu it actual turn right into the needle and I swede over it. So once I begin to sew I place my hand behind the sewing area and just guide it to stay behind the needle.

Once you have sewn it you then just shape your rose and sew it together on the bottom side.

VINTAGE BLUE SUMMER TOP

2011-05-15T08:31:00.001-04:00

Blues are my favorite print of fabric. There are so many great patterns out there, some that are very vintage looking. I have had this fabric for awhile and have made several handbags from it. I used the BUTTERICK PATTERN #4800

I love making these fabric flowers. The raw edges add a vintage touch each flower. They are extremely easy to make and can be made in any size. You can find my tutorial for them at the link below.

FABRIC FLORAL TUTORIAL

I added beads to the center of each flower to give it just a touch of bling

I made the ties from the same material as the fabric flowers

I have linked my creation to the following linked parties.
Be sure to check them out

BLUE SUN DRESS

2011-05-14T17:45:00.002-04:00

When i saw this Fabric at Mardins I knew which pattern I would use on it. A summer dress would look nice in this print. The pattern I used was "New Look" # 6468

I must confess I could not figure out the zipper on the side due to the curve in the pattern, but luckily I used cotton with some stretch so that I could just put it on over my head and it fits perfectly.

Once my sister saw this dress I made she insisted that she was sending me some material for me to make her many dresses. I guess I better figure out the zipper part.

I am sharing todays creation with the linked parties below.

What a great way to share and see so many ideas.

PINK AND BROWN BUTTERFLY SUMMER TOP

2011-05-11T06:05:00.000-04:00

MATCHING ENVELOPE

2011-05-08T08:21:00.000-04:00

I made a beautiful card for my mother but did not know what to do as far as an envelope.

I wanted one that would complement the card.

Hhmmmmm what to do AHHHHH yes decorate a white envelope to match the card.

Yes that's what I will do.

I stamped the back of the envelope with the Set from CTMH "

I printed off a beautiful verse I found online and stamped the inside to coordinate with the theme on the outside and the card.

PINK SUMMER TOP

2011-05-04T06:05:00.001-04:00

I have been searching everywhere for a cute little summer top to wear to work under my pink cardigan. I couldn't find just the right one so I decided to try and make one. I had some pink cotton floral print fabric that I just love.

I used the pattern from "New Look # 6965"

I love the V-neck and how it is not tight in the waist line. This is a very very easy pattern to sew and will be making some more.

GODS PATH 12 X 12 TILE

2011-04-29T05:46:00.000-04:00

Sorry the lighting is not the best reflecting off the tile. I think I need to either buy a new camera or get some lessons on taking pictures that reflect so much light. I was asked by a friend to take a verse and turn it into a tile. She will be giving this tile to another friend as a gift. The two fonts I used are Precious and Occidental and designed it in my SCAL (Sure cuts a Lot) program. I love the deep rich color of the browns in the tile and it really makes the wording just pop.

I will try and add the cut file later once I get it uploaded to my shared folder

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CUPCAKES

2011-04-24T08:48:00.000-04:00

I was going to make a chocolate Mousse pie to bring to my sisters for Easter dinner and I total forgot to buy the chocolate crumb crust. So i had to come up with something I had in the house already. I had a box of Dark Chocolate cake mix and the ingredients to make the mousse. I decided to make cupcakes with Chocolate mousse frosting. YUM!!!!

I of course could not just leave it at that I had to also embellish the cupcakes as I am a big fan of Cupcake Wars and just had to try my hand at a display (mind you my display is on a much smaller scale. Lets say by at least 760 cupcakes short)

The chocolate Mousse is made from the Hershey recipe I have in one of their little recipe book.

You can also find the RECIPE HERE at the Hershey's site.

I found the "Bubbles Cupcake Wrappers" at "IMAGES BY HEATHER" and the Butterfly at "SVG CUTS"

The Toppers were created by printing out some Biblical Phrases and punching Card Stock with my 1 1/4" scallop punch. I adhered them to toothpicks with sticky dots.

BABY GIRL ENSEMBLE

2011-04-20T06:54:00.002-04:00

This July I know several wonderful woman that are having babies. So i decided to start with the girl gift ensemble for that special day. I used flannel material to match the Rag Quilt I made (not yet shown). This will be a great gift ensemble for that new little joy of bundle. I made matching bibs and burp cloths.

The Free Pattern to make the "Burp Clothes can be found and downloaded at

YOU CAN MAKE THIS

The Bib Free Pattern can be downloaded at

CREATIONS BY KARA

The diaper bag was very easy to make.

These instructions are for those familiar with making this type of handbag, it's just on a larger scale

Cut 2 from Strips Fabric 18 1/4 x 14 1/2 for outside of bag and 2 for the inside fabric of the bag

Cut 2 from Brown Polka Print 18 1/4 x 20

Fold in half (now 18 1/4 x 10) and straight stitch the top of the folded part do this for the back of the bag also

Line up the pocket's with the bottom of the bag

Figure out how big you want your pockets for the front and back

I created 4 1/2 inch corners

Assemble the bag

SPRING DRESSES

2011-04-19T08:39:00.001-04:00

My Daughter is going to be 20 years old This July so she is not at an age to make all her little spring and summer outfits. I miss making all her matching sets, SO I decided to make some cute little matching Spring/Summer Dresses for my girlfriends two granddaughters. They are 2 (size 2t dress was made) and 5(size 5 dress was made) years old. Of course I made them to match as they are sisters.

I found both FREE PATTERNS online

Vivienne Toddler dress pattern on Burda

Oliva S Popover Sundress

Of course I had to make matching handbags and hair bows to match the summer dresses. With Easter Sunday this weekend they will look adorable with their matching outfits and accessories. The handbags each have an adorable little Fabric Flower pin I created using my circle scallop nestabilities. You can see the tutorial at my original post HERE. The instructions for this adorable handbag can be found at "Make and Takes" DIY Fat Quarter Bag.

MOTHERS DAY CARD 3

2011-04-12T20:42:00.000-04:00

This was the last mothers day card I worked on today. Making the scalloped flowers are my favorite paper flowers to make as I just love carnations and that's what these look like to me. I to brown print and teal print paper and created these to give them a blend of the two colors together. I would put one blue then one brown and so on for all 6 circles. I used the Cuttlebug embossing folder "Floral Fantasy". The Stampin Up stamp "Natural Beauty"

MOTHERS DAY CARD 2

2011-04-12T20:34:00.001-04:00

Today I took the day and worked on mothers day cards for some very special ladies in my life. This one is a favorite as I love making paper flowers. I used the Cricut cartridge "Accent Essentials" two at 1" and 1 at 2" size and staggered them at the top of the digital image I printed. The digital image is from Beccy's Place called "Gardening Items". The sentiment is from Garfico " Mothers Day Sentiments"

Beccy's Place has AMAZING digital art for you to use on many great projects. This is a must see site for all that love digital stamps.

I entered this card in the Sketch challenge at "Christian Paper Crafts"

MOTHERS DAY CARD 1

2011-04-12T20:06:00.001-04:00

This card is one that will be done at the Good News Club (GNC) here in the Northern Maine area. It is a great group of 30 children who will each make one of the cards to give to their mothers on mothers day. I used the stamp set from Stampin Up "On Gossamer Wings", the cuttlebug embossing folder "Textile". Free digital sentiment stamp from Grafico called "Mothers Day sentiments". Cream satin ribbon. The phrase was punched with 1 1/2" scallop punch and then matted on Teal and Brown Card stock that I used my circle scalloped nestabilities.

This card is also being Entered into the Sketch challenge at "Mojo Monday"

NESTABIBLITIES FABRIC FLOWER

2011-04-04T20:16:00.003-04:00

I wanted to make a fabric flower that matched my Daisey Reversible apron and one that I could take off when I washed the apron. Below you will find the instruction using my Round scallop Nestabilities.

I first chose the size of round nestabilities I wanted to use. I only cut one at a time in my Big Shots

Cut 4 of the larger size

cut 4 of the next size down from the larger one

I chose to not use the samllest one in this photo

You will now fold your circles into halfs and the forths to form the petals

Sew all 4 petals together stagering them one on top of the other

Do this with the second layer of the second print

NOT SHOWN

I added one more layer of petals the same size of the second layer but only used 3 instead of 4

Once you have all petals sewn in together at the center points just fluff the flower up to give it shape
I glued a clasp on the back side so that I can take the Fabric Flower off the apron when I want to wash it

QUILTED BLUE HANDBAGS

2011-04-04T20:06:00.000-04:00

I love BLUES they Blue is my favorite color. I have two co-workers who asked I could come up with a quilt block handbags using blues and creams. These are the two I came up with. I made each one of them a tad different from each other so they were not exactly the same one.

The blocks are each 4 1/2 x 4 1/2

3 across and 5 down

I did a 3" corner

DAISEY & STRIPES REVERSABLE APRON

2011-04-04T19:59:00.001-04:00

CAN YOU SAY SUMMER!!!

Okay so I am rushing it just a tad but I knew these two materials together would just make a perfect reversibly apron. I actually took the Butteric pattern 4119 and tailored it to have a curved bottom. I accomplished this by folding it in half length wise and tracing a curve and cutting it to the length I wanted. I then cut a strip of fabric 6x45 for the bottom ruffle. I did a gather stitch to create the ruffke and sewed it to the bottom of the apron. The pockets are 12 x 9 1/2 folded and sewn together. I then placed them on the center of each apron. The neck ties are cut from 2 x 24 two of each fabric sewing the two different prints together right sides together then turn inside out. The waste ties are 38 1/2 x 2 1/2 sewn the same way as the neck ties. I created two differnt aprons and then sewed them together matching all seams and leaving a 4" opening for turning right sides out on one of the long sides. I then sewed a 1/4 straight sticth all around the apron.

I decided to make a matching Fabric Flower to the top of the apron.

You can get the instructions

HERE

SPRING DELIGHT

2011-03-28T09:01:00.002-04:00

I have not sat down and made a card in a while as I have been doing more sewing projects. With mothers day approaching I decided to sit down yesterday and create a card for some challenges. I sure do miss making cards and enjoyed it yesterday.

The inspiration for this card is for a special girlfriend who has shown me to have FAITH and STRENGTH in the midst of the trails we go through in our life. She has taught me to hold on to the TRUTH in the WORD and know that we will never be forsaken.

I love the rich colors of the aqua blue and Brown together. They are very warm and cozy colors but yet at the same time colorful and bright.

The flowers were made using my 1/2 scallop punch. I stacked 6 together, crunched them up and then sponged the edges with Brown ink.

Challenges I entered

Crazy 4 Challenges - Sketch
Allsorts - Anything Goes
Stamp Something - Spring

Recipe Card

Card Stock - Brown and Aqua Blue
Ink - Stampin' Close to Coco
Stamp - Inkadinkado
Printed Paper -Found at a thrift store no name on it
Embellishments - Brown and aqua Grossgrain Ribbon
Tools - 1/2 scallop punch

BABY BIBS

2011-03-22T18:39:00.000-04:00

A very close friend is having a little one and so is a young lady I watched grow up so I am extremely excited to start making tons of baby items for the two of them. I started with these great little bibs that I used my cricut cutter to cut out all the appliques. On one of them I also used my embroidering machine to embroider Baby of it. I have so many ideas.

PORTABLE IRON BOARD

2011-03-22T18:21:00.001-04:00

I found an old shelf that was just the perfect size that would fit at the end of my table to be used as an iron board.

You will need a piece of wood the size you would like, a towel and your favorite print of fabric.

I cut 1/2" all around the piece of wood for me to be able to staple the towel to the board. Staple the towel on all 4 sides of the piece of wood.

Measure and cut the printed fabric to fit over your board like you would cut a pillow case out.

Sew the sides and hem the top. Place over board. Now you have a portable iron board.

PLEXI GLASS RULERS

2011-03-07T18:53:00.001-05:00

Can I tell you how AMAZING my hubby is.

He is always looking around his garage when he is cleaning it up and thinks before he throws anything away if I can use it. So Hubby came to me and asked me if there was anything I can use when I am quilting with his extra plexi glass.

WELL guess what hubby came up with ;-)

With his saw and the left over plexi glass he cut me up some quilting rulers. I had him do up specific sizes that I used a lot of. This is such a great and cheap way for a new quilter to be able to have rulers to start quilting with at a great cost. I love my actual quilting rulers but also now use the handmade ones just as much.

I used a thin permanent marker to do the rules lines

ANOTHER GREAT MARDINS FIND

2011-03-07T18:43:00.000-05:00

I just "LOVE, LOVE, LOVE" this Fabric Prints. I see Fish bowls and Butterfly's and that's just what I am going to make with it an Applique quilt with fishes and butterfly's.

The Fat quarter pack and jelly roll was bought from MARDINS. As you can see the price was an awesome deal for the fat quarter rolls @$5.99 and the jelly roll was $9.99. Now I will be designing a new child's quilt in the next week and will hopefully be sharing with you at the end of the month my design all finished.

2011-03-06T19:04:00.001-05:00

I have been working on this quilt in between all my other projects and was able to get the top part completed today. I now need to find coordinating fabric to match for the backing. I used two Jelly Rolls to complete this project. I sewed 4 strips together and then squared them off to an 8" square.

I also need to learn how to MACHINE QUILT.

I am wondering if any of you great QUILTERS can lead me to the best place on the web to learn how to machine quilt. I have a Janome 9700.

I practiced some today on a spare piece of material and batting and found it very hard so if there are any tips that fellow quilters can share PLEASE do :-).

NORTHERN WOODS RAG QUILT

2011-03-05T11:29:00.002-05:00

Nothing says the Northern woods more than Pine trees and bears. I designed this beautiful Rag Quilt for a great couple that my hubby and I have gotten very close with. We have known them for over 9 years as camp neighbors, but once we built our Home and moved to the lake we have become dear friends. I wanted to give them a gift and what better one than one that will keep them warm and resemble the Northern Maine Woods.

Each of the inside blocks were cut 12 x 8 (the bear and pine tree prints)

Each of the Red print was cut at 8 x 8 for the ends and 12 x 8 for the top and bottom

The finished Rag Quilt measures 60 x 77

I used Story Book cartridge and my cricut cutter along with frames nestabilities to create the tag for the rag quilt.

MARCH THANK YOU FREE DOWNLOAD

2011-03-05T08:41:00.001-05:00

For the entire month of March you can download my #1 seller the Card Caddy for free. Be sure to grab it as after March it will no longer be offered. This is a THANK YOU from me to all my followers.

ENJOY

Click below to get the download

CARD CADDY INSTRUCTIONS

MERGED TWO SITES INTO ONE

2011-03-05T08:20:00.001-05:00

I have taken and merged my two blog sites into one. You are now able to find all my paper craft and sewing projects in one place.

ASHLEE ROSE

2011-03-03T07:07:00.000-05:00

‎6 months ago GOD came and took his ANGEL home with him. Why she had to go so soon we don't know but we are learning to TRUST in GOD and know he is taking care of her. ASHLEE ROSE WE MISS YOU DOE!!!!!

REVERSIBLE SHOULDER BAG

2011-03-01T19:08:00.000-05:00

Toady's quickie sewing project is this beautiful reversible shoulder bag. This was a pattern that came in the Magazine Quilts and more. I did not place a closer or any pockets so that it could remain reversible. I might add a couple ribbon flowers if I get them done later this week. They will be done to with a safety pin added so I can interchange them also.

CARS OF THE PAST RAG QUILT

2011-03-01T19:03:00.000-05:00

My nephew Davids birthday is coming up this month so I just had to design a rag quilt with the theme of cars for him. He is so full of energy and is just about the sweetest little bugger you will ever meet. I used a 8 x 8 square and a 1/2 seam allowance to sew each block together.

A tool that is a must have when doing a rag quilt would have to be an electric sweater shaver. This makes the process of getting all the lint off the quilt once it has gone through the washing and drying process.

MAD SKILLS LINK PARTY

2011-03-01T07:11:00.000-05:00

I was searching the web for some great craft/sewing tutorials and I came across this AMAZING site that many crafters/sewers share many and I MEAN many tutorials. This is a must see site and be sure to share with others.

Mad Skills is a great place to follow fellow crafters and see some amazing designs and tutorials

LIVIE LOVE BUG FREE WALLET INSTRUCTIONS

2011-02-17T20:56:00.001-05:00

I designed this wallet to match my Livie Love Bug Purse I created earlier this week. I also took the time to create the instructions and patterns to share with all my fellow sewers. Be sure to grab the instructions and pattern below. The instructions are full of illistrations in making this great project.

WALLET INSTRUCTIONS

WALLET PATTERNS

PRINCE OF FROGS HOBO BAG

2011-02-17T06:28:00.002-05:00

I have seen many, many hobo patterns online and just had to try my hand at creating one. I love the scoop neck of these bags. I created mine with plenty of pockets on the inside and a button and ribbon closer. I also created a thinner strap that ties together so that you can tie it at different lengths.

The front pocket was embroidered with a nickname on it. This Prince of Frogs Hobo Bag was made for a special order for a customer of mine for his wife for Valentines day.

WALLET

The matching wallet is also one of my designs and have been mentioning I was going to write up all the instructions for this one. I will be getting them online this weekend to share with everyonee

I will also try to get my pattern for the HOBO BAG online this weekend with the written instructions

THE LIVIE LOVE BUG PURSE ENSEMBLE

2011-02-17T06:02:00.002-05:00

With winter upon us and the snow piling up I just had to make a purse that reflects the crisp blue skies and beautiful big snow flakes. This was a challenging pattern to use as I also had to figure out the placement for the pockets inside.

I want to give credit for this beautiful pattern to "Brenda Dean" The FREE PURSE INSTRUCTION can be found at "Popular Patchwork"

I only made a few adaption by embroidering and adding inside pockets

Once I figured out my quilt pattern I then adhered it with Spray adhesive to stabilizer and embroidered each solid block. Below is the back and front of the purse

SUN GLASS CASE

I love to make matching sets so of course I designed a new wallet that work work with this size purse and a matching sun glass/glasses case

Inside the case in the photo I have my big black sun glasses and there is still plenty of room for my regular glasses to also fit in there. The inside is lined with a very soft fabric so the glasses have some protection from scratching the lens. Flannel works well.

WALLET

The inside of the wallet has plenty of room for all your cards bills and change. I even have my checkbook in here for right now as I will be making a checkbook case.

CLICK HERE FOR THE WALLET INSTRUCTION

ZEBRA PRINT RAG BLANKET

2011-02-13T08:04:00.001-05:00

This was made for my niece Sammy for her 18th birthday. She loves different prints and this came out to be a perfect combination in creating this blanket for her.

I used 8" squares and did 1/2" seam all around.

VALANTINE SPARKLE REVERSABLE APRON

2011-01-23T08:41:00.000-05:00

Red & Brown work so well together it creates such a rich color combination. I used the SEE & SEW APRON PATTER # B5125.

I used just the red print fabric to create the other side of the apron. My daughter's kitchen has all red small appliances in it and her theme is red. She wanted me to make her an apron to match the kitchen and this is what I came up with. I love this pattern as it can be adapted for many apron styles.

SUNSHINE AND SMILES RAG QUILT

2011-01-23T08:28:00.000-05:00

This Rag Quilt was made for a special little someone in my area. The bright vibrant colors are so cute together. A Rag Quilt is a perfect gift for any time of the year or any occasion.

I also made a matching pillow case and tied it all together with hot pink ribbon.