The Brissmiths

$5 book finds

2012-01-15T19:12:00.007+10:00

I couldn't resist a book bargain when the Prints Charming book was posted on a sewing friend's blog. So when I was back in the city for work I headed off to the book store hoping that they still had some in stock. And they did - a whole pile of them! What a great bargain! I love the concept of screen printing and I'll just add it to the list of the 'one day'. This book has a whole chapter dedicated to a boy's room including a pattern for a quilt and a pinboard. Throw in a nice quilt for my bedroom, artwork for the living room and dining room placemats, the whole house is covered. The beach shorts in the outdoor living chapter would be great for Kaiden too!

Right beside it was this book called Bundles of Fun - Quilts from fat quarters which was also $5. The book has some great simple designs which would be easy to sew up. It also shows how each pattern would look in a few colour combinations.

Apart from a top from one of my favourite shops, this was the extent of my holiday sale shopping this year.

Sewing for boys

2012-01-15T16:50:00.005+10:00

The boys bought this book for me for Christmas. How thoughtful of them! I'd been eyeing it off for a while.

What I like about this book is that most of the patterns go up to a size eight which still gives me a few year's worth of sewing for both of them. It is also spiral bound which is great for being able to lie the book flat when you are working on a project and need your hands to be free.

The whole spectrum of boy clothes are covered - from pjs to a hat, coats, pants, t-shirts and shorts. In fact, a whole wardrobe just like the cover says.

There is a flickr group for clothing made from the book if you'd like to see more.

I have lots of projects planned to sew for myself first though before I crack open this pattern sheet.

2012 - The year of sewing for me (well mostly)

2012-01-14T11:06:00.004+10:00

Grand plans.
Lots of dreams.
New patterns in the stash.
Perhaps less sewing this year, but more sewing of substance. I love sewing for the boys but clothes for me are so much more expensive and so much harder to find the right fit (I have expensive taste too!)
I have been reading up on making muslins (trial runs), altering patterns and pinning lots of ideas to Piniterest.
Now I better get to it!

2011 Christmas wishes

2011-12-19T16:20:00.013+10:00

Our lights are up, the presents are wrapped and our boys are certainly excited about Christmas only being just around the corner.

Kaiden has finished up his two days/ week in the pre-prep room at C&K and is ready to go to start prep at the local primary school next year. Some of his best friends from C&K are going to the same school and we are confident that he will take it all in his stride. His best friend/neighbour already goes to the school and we think seeing him everyday is what Kaiden is looking forward to the most.

Kaiden wearing his school uniform shirt @ his last week at C&K

During the year Kaiden enjoyed swimming lessons every week and tried out gymnastics for three terms before deciding that he'd like to give something else a go (perhaps soccer in 2012?) He loves spending his time playing with his friends and also loves Ben 10 - hence the theme for his recent birthday party.

Jordan has grown up into a real little boy and loves playing outside and with his dog Harry.

He started at daycare, also C&K, for one day a week, in about August. He'll continue with the one day/week next year as well. Swimming lessons were a disaster but perhaps that will turn around as he gets a bit older and more confident in the water.

Both boys have enjoyed going to playgroup every week and doing fun things at home like cooking and making things, in particular making messes!

And also occasionally liking his big brother.

They love seeing their Nan and Pop and visiting their Granddad. Kaiden had his first adventure to the speedway recently and loved having a 'night out' with the boys.

Mid-2011 saw Susan increase her work hours from three/days to full-time. Brett continues to look after the boys and with share-trading in-between. We're hoping (although perhaps being a bit too optimistically) for a better 2012 on the financial markets.

Brett has also started getting into genealogy and thanks to some previous research by his relatives and ancestory.com has traced his heritage back to Oliver Cromwell.

We wish all our blog visitors, family and friends a Merry Christmas and safe New Year and hope you continue to enjoy reading about our adventures and creations over another year.

Turning 5

2011-12-14T07:13:00.010+10:00

Being five will be a big year - starting prep, perhaps a bike with pedals?

To celebrate, K invited his friends which is quite a mix (daycare, gymnastics, swimming, neighbours, relatives) to a Ben 10 party.

Held in a local park, we were fortunate that the weather cleared enough to give us a morning to hold it outdoors.

We included a couple of games...

Save the alien - The kids had to use cups of water to defrost the ice and rescue the alien trapped inside. A popular game and one Dad commented that he was going to freeze a marble in a giant bucket of ice for his boy's party so the game would last for ages.

Three-legged alien race - The kids were a bit young for this but it was still fun to try. Jordy looks so determined!

There was also the meteor race golf ball on a spoon) and the meteor throw (water balloons). We tried to hang the doughuts from the tree to eat without touching but under the humid weather the doughnuts didn't cooperate and collapsed until piles of sugary dough! Not a good game for summer or try iced doughnuts which have more stablity.
The cake
One layer of white chocolate mud cake on top of a layer of dark chocolate mud cake. This was Brett's first adventure into fondant and it looked terrific! We purchased the fondant ready made which is definately a plus. Next time - mental note to buy black fondant first up to save a trip back to the cake shop.

I think we will do fondant again as despite a few hiccups (like finding some corners nibbled off and fingers in the fondant), Brett said it wasn't all that hard and he is the cake decorator in this house (and available for hire!).

We used flour to make some pictures on the ground.

K loved the celebration and his friends had a great time too.

Headbands

2011-12-13T17:51:00.005+10:00

This year I've kept any Christmas sewing to the "nice and simple". Apart from the tea bag wallets, the only other sewing I've had a chance to do is some headbands. Great for using up scraps and pretty quick to sew. There are a few tutorials around on the interne. The Long Thread has a nice tutorial. Do you have any other ideas for using up fabric leftovers to share?

Tea bag wallet

2011-11-27T12:39:00.003+10:00

These are handy indeed! I love the one I have kept for my handbag and the rest are gifts for Kaiden and Jordan's daycare carers, together with a notebook or other small gift.
The instructions are easy and simple to sew. They use up scraps of fabric as well!

Another Bitti

2011-11-27T08:04:00.004+10:00

There is something about chunky yarn and needles and an easy pattern that makes for the ideal knit for camping.
So while we were away over a recent weekend, I was able to knit up the body of this Bitti (mostly when Brett was driving), just leaving the sleeves and finishing for home.
There is no gift recipient in mind at this point of time, it was mostly to finish up some Woolganics which I had on hand. This one will go straight into the 'gift box' as I'm sure I'll find a little girl to give it a home soon.
And yes, I have made one of these before (exactly the same just a smaller size) which made it extra easy.

Wool: Woolganics, Bendigo Wool
Size: 4
Pattern: Itti Bitti Bump

Ottobre 3/2009

2011-11-26T13:09:00.005+10:00

When Kaiden first saw this shirt, his comment was, "But it doesn't have dinosaurs".
So he resisted trying it on but eventually came good. It was a pretty easy shirt to sew and while the collar interfacing was a new experience for me, it looks neat and well-finished. I think though next time it could do with a touch more length as he is tending to grow upwards and not outwards. And I'm thinking the shirt would look nicer if the top button was done up too!

Pattern: Ottobre 3/2009 Collared shirt
Size: 104cmhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Fabric: From Sewco

You can find my review of this pattern here on Pattern Review.

PS> At the end of the day we couldn't get the shirt off him and he wanted to wear it to bed. Must be a sign that all is OK even though there is not a dinosaur in sight.

A good op shop

2011-11-19T19:23:00.003+10:00

I love a good op shop and having a hunt around to see what I can find. Op shops don't seem to love me as much though and I always seem to come out with a running nose and itchy eyes.

When we went camping at Imbil recently I took the opportunity to have a rummage through a country op shop where the finds always seem to be so much better. So this is what I took home - a Kwik Sew shirt pattern for K and J (goes up to size 4) with both a long sleeved and short sleeved version for the sum of 50 cents, and a copy of Creative Serging - a guide to decorative overlock sewing for $2. Not bad for a total investment of $2.50.

Elsie Dress

2011-10-19T21:08:00.002+10:00

Another cute creation, this time an Elsie Dress by Sew Sweet Patterns. Rather than have the contrast hem, I kept the dress plain and added a row of ric rac - not entirely intentional but still works.

I used ribbon ties for the back.

Saffron Romper

2011-10-18T09:15:00.005+10:00

Now this pattern is a little cutie. I'd really recommend checking the sizing though before you cut. This one is a size three and it seems a little on the largish size to me but then again I guess it depends on the child's size. Kaiden still fits into size 3 shorts so I'm used to clothes on the smaller size. The legs on these also seemed a little short so I added some trim to the bottom leg. I'm also used to long, baggy boy pants! And I originally had the little frill on the top but it didn't look right and didn't sit properly when I started to sew the top stitching so off it came! I also didn't like how the elastic casing on the waist was left unfinished but that was an easy fix with my overlocker. This one is destined to be gifted...I think it will be a little while before it gets some wear but it is always better to be on the safe side when it comes to sizing.

Evidence

2011-10-02T21:19:00.006+10:00

a) That I'm still sewing
b) That I'm still alive.

A Make it Perfect Lazy Days bucket hat to build up the hat stash. A easy sew, a bit fiddly to get the edges to match but nothing that I couldn't conquer. Great for using up some left-overs, and Kaiden was very impressed that it matched his jacket.

Looking at this photos - where has my baby gone? This is a little boy and one who is nearly ready to go to school!

Fabric: From Sewco, left over from jacket
Pattern: Make it perfect Size Medium

Pattern review here.

Skirting around

2011-08-16T21:06:00.003+10:00

Now people who regularly read my blog would understand how I like to mix up the boy sewing with a bit of the "pretty". So when I heard that one of my work colleagues was having a girl, well I just couldn't resist.

Pattern: Pink Fig Patchwork Skirthttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Sizing: 6 to 12 months
Fabric: Mostly leftovers with the bottom trim from Lincraft

Pattern review is here.

And this skirt is in a larger size for a gift. It started off as a dress, and well, as you can see that's that didn't happen and it ended up as a skirt.

Pattern: Adapted dress
Fabric: From stash
Sizing: 2

A Bitti Bump

2011-08-05T08:57:00.003+10:00

Another quick and easy knit which is going to be gifted. It is in the 18 month size but I think it could be worn from 12 months+ and would be cross-seasonal wear for here in Brisbane. It is using double-stranded wool (ie two different wools knitted together) which actually didn't cause too many complications for me. Using bulky wool and big needles, if I had sat down and not had any distractions (eg internet), it would have been finished over a couple of nights (remembering that I go to bed early nowdays.

The pattern is Bitti Bump by Gina Bonomo and it goes from newborn up to size 4 so I see a few of these quick and easy knits in my future. There is a boy version of the pattern as well but it only goes up to one year so way too small for our boys.

Shroom!

2011-07-18T21:24:00.005+10:00

A quick knit - a Shroom beanie which is in a child's s size. This style of hat doesn't suit me, but I'm hoping it will look better on someone alot younger. Hard to tell as Kaiden refused to test model. This pattern is free from here. It uses a super bulky Woolganics yarn, the thicker version of the wool I used for the last project.

Present cuteness

2011-07-16T07:47:00.007+10:00

Simple wrapping. Brown paper, a doiley runner from my Mum's stash which was unfinished so I separated off one of the squares, threaded through some ribbon and presto! Present wrapped in cuteness!

Olearia #3

2011-07-08T09:00:00.007+10:00

In the "in between" I was well-managed enough to finish off this little Olearia for a friend's little girl who is turning one. This time I went for the shorter version which maybe more practical for a crawler and for Brisbane weather. It is in a size 18 months so I hope it is big enough to get some good wear. I must be more skilled in knitting this pattern now as it all went smoothly and was off the needles pretty quickly! Being the shorter version also made it a bit quicker.

It is made using Woolganics which is an Australian organic wool and is so soft, it is like knitting butter!

Note: don't expect to see too much craftiness around here as I've returned to work full-time and currently trying to build up my "work fitness". Bed time is early, knitting in the sunshine while J naps is non-existent and when I do craft I seem to be unpicking due to clumsy, tired induced mistakes. On the positive side, I have a good job with a good team of people (and a fellow knitter/sewer so can distract myself with craft talk) and I can pay off my overlocker! (which ironically is collecting dust).

Pattern: Olearia by Georgie Hallam (tikki)
Size: 18 months
Made for: Miss A's first birthday

Modelled Hotshot

2011-06-14T11:35:00.005+10:00

Look at our gorgeous little boy. All of a sudden he is nearly two (in August) and boy does he have a personality of his own! Strong willed, determined. But there is no doubt that he 100% loves his Mummy and over the past few weeks he has clung to me madly as if I am the centre of his universe and he is worried that I'm going to leave him forever. I'm sure it will be just a phase and before I know it he will be wanting to go to the pub with his big brother and they will drive off (in our car) and return in the early hours of the morning.

Sugar baby

2011-06-14T10:39:00.002+10:00

Before you think how quick I am to have whipped this one off the needles, reality is that I've completed very little lately and this this Sugar baby vest by Lisa Flett had been sitting in my work in progress (WIP) pile for quite a while. There must have been a reason why I started to knit it a size large last year for K! But now it is finally finished and very wearable although I think could do with a little more in the length but that's OK as it will be passed down to J for next winter.

I love the colours in the hand-dyed wool. The colourway is called "Jungle Fever" with greens, browns and orange.

It is meant to have a pocket on the front but after a game of yardage chicken (which I was bound to lose), I sacrificed the pocket in order to be able to finish off the hood. Unlike most of my other knits, this pattern is knitted flat so needed seaming (sewing together). My verdict is that I definitely prefer knitting in the round (that is, on circular needles) and now that I have a little more experience under my needles I will never go back to flat needles and sewing pieces together unless it is absolutely necessary!

Pattern: Sugar baby by Lisa Flett
Wool: Dyed Woolganics "Jungle Fever" by The Dye Pot
Knitted for: Kaiden

Little Butterflies

2011-05-30T10:13:00.004+10:00

Another little knit, this time in a teeny tiny newborn size - so cute and so quick to finish. I knitted this mostly in the hours waiting for surgery and I'm not a particularly quick knitter so I hope this shows how easy this pattern is to follow. You probably can't see from the photo but the top of the cardigan features little butterflies which are knitted into the garment. Hard to explain, but easy to do as you knit along. A must-do knit for any little girl, and this one goes up to size 10. Highly recommended! The pattern was again designed by Tikki (Georgie Hallam) and uses Fibreworks hand-dyed yarn.

Flirt skirts

2011-05-27T18:57:00.007+10:00

The latest book to arrive in my letterbox is "Flirt Skirts" by Patti Gilstrap and Seryn Potter. This book features three basic skirts - a-line, pencil and flared and different ways to customise them. If you are a skirt lover, like me, but are looking for ways to jazz them up, this is a great book. Although there are a couple of ideas I'll be steering away from (like the 'bustle' back - I don't think I need to add more fabric to my rear....) and overall I think more attention could have been paid to how the photos were styled. I do like though the instructions in the front of book on how to get a good fit and picked up a few hints on how to ensure a good fit. I better get onto doing some sewing for myself!

A little Olearia

2011-05-25T15:15:00.004+10:00

If I haven't told you before, I should have mentioned that every little girl (up to size eight) needs an Olearia in their wardrobe. And while I've knitted this pattern before so should know what I'm doing, this one encountered some problems which were set to test me (and my lovely MIL who sorted out the sleeve issue) and to teach me some lessons along the way (like to never use dental floss to hold stitches). This is destined to be a gift for a little girl, and while it is little late it is a size one and fortunately she isn't quite at that age...yet. This pattern is designed by Georgie Hallam (Tikki) who was also the master creator behind the design of my other recently finished knitted item, the Milo vest. This was another project that I was able to finish while waiting at the hospital (just in case you think I'm at home madly knitting)

Children's sewing swap - received for Kaiden

2011-05-25T08:44:00.009+10:00

In my catch-up on blog posts, I remembered the other day that I had forgotten to show what K received in the latest EB sewing swap. Sorry to our partner, Carolyn who must have torn her hair out in sewing up the vest. It looks quite complicated and tricky. K loved the outfit (see the thumbs up!). (sorry for the bad photos)

It was lovely that Carolyn threw in some other fabric and an outfit she had previously made

but was no longer loved by her kids. Well it has found a new home and is well-loved here. K also loved the dinosaur ribbon that was tying it all together. I think that is going on my next shopping list!

Thanks Carolyn!

Quilts for Queensland

2011-05-23T13:53:00.008+10:00

During the Queensland floods I felt positively helpless and wanted to find a way to let people know that they were in our thoughts. Retro Mummy is co-ordinating Quilts of Queensland drive and I made some 12 1/2 inch blocks to contribute to the cause.

A handmade quilt is great to snuggle under. It keeps you warm. It can help a house feel like a home. It is like a huge hug.

I've made nine blocks in total which should be enough for a small quilt. It now just needs sashing (the pieces that join the blocks together), backing and quilting. I'm hoping that someone can help with this as I don't have any suitable fabric for this or the time/expertise to do the quilting.

Most of the fabric was gifted to me by a fellow Essential Baby quilter; some are leftovers from other projects and I bought some small pieces from Spotlight as I don't have much quilting fabric in my fabric stash.

Recovery....

2011-05-23T13:23:00.010+10:00

I'm going to be taking it easy for a while as I recover from a Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (aka gallbladder removal). As evidence of my troubles, I had three gallstones handed to me after the operation (in a jar) and the surgeon told me that it looked like my gallbladder was infected (pathology results to come). So now I'm gallbladderless and hoping that soon my energy levels will return to normal (as normal as a working Mum with young kids can ever be) and I can eat a range of foods (yes, including pizza, coffee and cheese - in moderation of course) without finding myself laid up on the couch for hours at night. And while I'm in recovery mode, I'm doing some knitting, computer time (including online shopping....) and tv (plus some very gentle exercise so I'm not a complete couch potato - entering in mastercard details probably doesn't count towards this). Hence, you'll probably find that I'll catch up on some long overdue blog posts about finished projects.

While I was starving and waiting for my operation, the nurses told me that I had been bumped down the list so instead of going in at 2pm, it was more likely going to be 5pm. Luckily I had anticipated a change of plans and had a bag of knitting to see me through. This is one of the projects which was already finished but just needed some ends sewn in. This Milo vest is a nine-month size and features a hugs and kisses cable. It is for a gift.

Hotshot vest for J

2011-05-15T10:59:00.001+10:00

Now the nights are getting cooler, my favourite spot is on the lounge after the boys have gone to bed with a spot of knitting. I recently finished a "Hotshot" for J which was an easy knit and finished over a couple of weeks which is a record for me (both to finish knitting something AND to do it over the span of weeks, not months!).

Knitted completely in the round on circular needles it was a simple knit.
Trust me it looks great on Jordan although I currently don't have a modeled shot as he distinctly told me "no" even when I politely asked if he could wear it for a photo (several times). Definitely a recommended pattern and I've seen versions for both boys and girls which look great.

Ruffle romper

2011-05-14T08:12:00.006+10:00

Not set to finish with the ruffled bloomers, I made a pair of ruffled rompers. They look very cute and while I haven't seen what look like on, the photos here do not do them justice. I think that it adding snaps to the bottom to make nappy changes or toilet training easier for this size (size three) would be a good idea. Here's the link to a finished pair by the pattern designer Tie Dye Diva to give you an idea of the finished look.

Fabric: quilter's cotton from Spotlight
Made for: Lily
Pattern: Tie Dye Diva, size 3, Ruffle Romper (no pattern alterations)

Ruffle pants and swing top

2011-05-05T21:15:00.008+10:00

It seems like ages since I have posted about a finished item. I have been crafting; just the time has been shortened, especially as I have been feeling tired at night and knitting a few rows here and there is more appealing. Now also that I'm working full-time my crafting time will be especially tight. Before I changed working days, I was able to make this cute little ensemble for a work friend's little girl. The cuteness factor is huge!! It was also a change to fiddle and learn how to use my new overlocker which deserves a post of its own. The patterns were super easy, especially with doing the rolled hem on my overlocker and for extra cuteness I made a covered button for the back.

Ruffle pants back

Front of the whole outfit showing the swing top

Back of the whole outfit

Made for: Miss Lily, aged nearly 3
Fabric: Cotton from Spotlight
Patterns: Tie Dye Diva

Bucket hat for Jordan

2011-04-11T13:41:00.004+10:00

Our drawers are scare of hats too, and it is always handy to have one in the http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifcar just in case. So I made one for Jordan using this free tutorial. Unfortunately, my model wasn't too willing....

EB clothing swap - received for Jordan

2011-04-11T13:01:00.005+10:00

Jordy received this gorgeous little outfit featuring his favourites - dinosaurs. It was made by Jade (who doesn't have a blog). Thanks Jade! The pants are the Big Butt Pants which is a pattern I'd seriously be considering to add to my (still unorganised) stash of patterns except reality is a) Jordan doesn't need more pants b) he will be out of nappies before he does need any more.* The pants are made with room for a cloth nappy which is great - plenty of space over the rise! The set is a touch large which is great as he can grow into it and I bet that really isn't too far away.

*Although if someone was to buy the pattern for me I would make one of those ruffle pants for them in return - seriously - they are so cute!!

Close-up of the dinosaur on the pants

The full outfit

Applique dinosaur on the t-shirt

Little Explorer Shorts

2011-04-01T13:58:00.007+10:00

It was very sad to look in Kaiden's drawer for around the house clothes and find a pile of NOTHING! Perhaps we were a little behind in the washing but regardless I thought it was time to sew him up a new pair of shorts.
I (or rather my sewing machine) made a big boo boo with the embroidery for the front of the pants so I made up a couple of panels to sew on. I didn't take alot of my usual care with sewing as these are most probably going to be worn to daycare/around the house but I still love how it looks. Kaiden said he loves them too and started to make up a story about how the dino was walking to the volcano!

Pattern: Little Explorer Shorts, Make It Perfect, size 4
Made for: Kaiden
Alterations: omitted pockets
Fabric: Denim from stash, contrast cuff from Lincraft remnant bin

EB Swap Item Sent - Girl's Outfit

2011-03-31T20:37:00.013+10:00

The second outfit I made was for Karen (Brazen)'s little girl, Emelia. When I asked Karen a bit more about what her daughter liked, I was channelling Hannah Montanna which was a pretty scary experience! I guess that was what came to mind when Karen mentioned that Emelia loves clothes which she thinks older girls would wear.

I'd already flicked through my Ottobre magazines and had an idea of what I wanted to make.

I'll show some static shows but Karen has given me permission to share some "action" shots which are below all of the details.

The vest is from Ottobre 1/2008 and is called the "Juliet" vest. I had some fun hammering in the eyelets into the back. The embroidery is by Bunnycup Embroidery and I added some rhinestones which I used the iron to heat-set on. The thread is metallic.

I had some leftover fabric so I decided to make the Izzy and Ivy Jack and Jill hat. A bit fiddly but I'm sure I'd find it easier to sew the next time around. I wasn't happy with how the brim turned out (is a bit wonky) and I unpicked the band a couple of times to get the stripes a bit more even. I think it looks much better on than off and apparently Emelia loves it ALOT! I especially love the big flower and could see myself making these for embellishing other clothes.

For the pants I decided to tackle the knickerbockers also in Issue 1/2008. The instructions sounded deceptively simple (perhaps because they lacked the detail/pictures). But thanks to some help from the ladies at Crafty Mamas I got through it! The embroidery near the pocket is also from Bunnycup Embroidery with rhinestones added.

I also made a top for under the vest but in my sewing stupor I cut a size below what I should have (a 5/6 rather than a 7/8). I thought it would be ok going by the measurements but it ended up that the neck opening was too small which I am disappointed about. I suggest that if you are making this pattern to double-check this on the pattern before cutting.

How the outfit was supposed to look all together

And some photos modelling the outfit

Sewn for: Karen's daughter Emelia
Patterns: Ottobre 1/2008 Juliet vest, knickerbockers, Izzy and Ivy Jack and Jill Hat, Emily Bell Sleeve Tunic by Sis Boom
Alterations: I reduced the height of the hat by 1cm and advise of a fellow sewer who had made this pattern before
Fabric: Vest/hat, pants, tunic and ribbon trim from Spotlight, rhinestones and lining fabric from Lincraft

Tomorrow - opening day!

2011-03-30T19:26:00.005+10:00

Tomorrow is the big day for opening the garments we have received in the EB sewing swap. It has been eight weeks since partners were assigned and everyone started getting busy with lots of deciding on fabric and patterns and chat along the way. There has been sharing stories of averted sewing disasters, the excitement of receiving parcels and now the anticipation of opening up to see what our partner's have made. During the time we have kept the name of the person we have sewing for a secret so every time we see a peek of someone's creation there is a hope that it could be ours (well, except for if you have two boys and the fabric is distinctively girl!) Bring on tomorrow! Here's another little peek at part of the second outfit I made

Sorry not the best photo, it was taken at night after the boys were in bed and I had to bundle up my garments for posting.

A good read

2011-03-28T07:28:00.007+10:00

I have to admit that my stash of craft books is slowly growing and is becoming another addiction. I just love flicking through the pages and looking at the gorgeous creations and thinking about the day when I might get to sew them up. A few which have recently joined my bookshelf at Christmas time are Amy Butler's Style Stitches which has a gorgeous collection of bags and Quilts Baby! which has an amazing collection of ideas for mini quilts which are suitable for all ages. I took a big leap and pre-ordered this book on its reputation alone and because I also have a growing love for skirt patterns. The Papier Mache magazine I picked up a couple of months ago but still haven't had the chance to sit down and have a good read. What are your favourite craft books and are there any 'must haves' I should add to my collection?

Boy's outfit April 2011 EB Children's Sewing Swap

2011-03-23T20:09:00.020+10:00

Today was opening and the big "reveal" day for the EB sewing swap. Here are the full details of what I sewed for Paisley (Wendy) which was the first outfit I finished.

The outfit was for Wendy's little boy, who is on the smallish side, and loves brights and skulls. It was a bit hard to find the two together but I spied spy some fabric at Spotlight, and inspired by this shirt I decided to be a bit daring with my colour combinations!

The pattern I had made before so it was easy to do again although I do wish that it would have a more than 1/4 inch seam allowance. The shirt looks different to my previous version as I varied the fabric and made it in panels.

I embroidered the back piece using a Bunnycup Embroidery. It is an applique so the sewing machine does most of the work, it is just a bit time consuming changing colours and taking the hoop out of the machine to position and cut the fabric. I love the end result though!

For the pants, I was going to make shorts but after reading Wendy's later post (which was after I had purchased the fabric), I decided that I would make long pants and line them. I used a tutorial from here by ikat bags to line them and to make the tabs so the bottoms could be rolled up - hopefully allowing the pants to be worn if they were too long. This tutorial was part of the "Celebrate the Boy" blog feature in 2010.

Instead of sewing the tab onto the pants though I made a buttonhole at either end so the tab could be removed if it was not needed.

The back

The front

And I also made this little pincushion using an embroidery design from Urban Threads. This is the first time that I have made something "in the hoop" which basically meant that I embroidered a front, then a back and then sewed the two together and stuffed it.

Sewn for: Hamish aged 3
Pattern: Top - Scientific Seamstress Bowling Shirt. Pants - Burda 9793, Bunnycup Embroidery "On the move"
Fabric: Quilter's fabric, broadcloth (shirt and pants), drill

Kid's clothing sewing swap - second oufit

2011-03-23T19:54:00.007+10:00

I have to admit the instructions looked simple and easy but sewing the bottom half of this outfit was a bit of a stretch for me. Partly because I like little diagrams and in-depth instructions that I can follow to the rule, and secondly there were a few things about the bottom half that I'd never attempted (successfully) before. Even in my decades of sewing I've only tried a fly front once and that was a semi (that is, still wearable) disaster. So then when I go to work out how to do it this time, years and years later, I search the internet and find there are lots of different tutorials which show similar yet all different ways to do a fly front which ends up just confusing me more. Yes, I did pick one way and yes, next time I will do it differently. Finally, though it is finished and here is a sneak peek.

One of my favourite bits (from the top piece which is also Ottobre but quicker to sew)

Finally finished, Swap Outfit #1

2011-03-09T17:26:00.006+10:00

My first swap outfit is now ready to pack and send. Here are a couple of sneak peeks of the final garments. While I was not unfamiliar with the patterns, I did make a few modifications so they look totally different to how I have made them previously.

The opening isn't for a couple of weeks yet so there is still some time to wait until the big reveal.

Handy husbands do come in handy!

2011-02-16T12:56:00.007+10:00

For a while I have been challenged with the issue of how to store my ever-growing stash of cotton reels. I seemed to have too many to store in containers, impossible to sort by colour and resulting in an overflowing tangled mess as often little fingers would sneak in and have fun unwinding. Consequently, more often than not I'd buy a new reel when I started a new project as I couldn't easily find if I already had it on hand.

So I did a bit of research and asked Brett if he would build me a wall unit to house all of them. So for Christmas my present he built this new cotton storage which now proudly hangs on my wall. Hopefully by seeing what I have I can start to prune it down a bit and fit ALL of them on. And I've put in a request for another one (yes another!) because I have almost the same amount again in machine embroidery thread, all mostly inherited from my Mum who was really into machine embroidery. The space down the bottom I'm using to hang other items like embroidery hoops and scissors (and currently cotton that doesn't fit up the top!).

The next challenge....my pattern drawer. I need to sort it and put into the plastic sleeves and folders that I have on hand. Perhaps when I'm finished my swap items that will be next on the never-ending 'to do' list.

A whole month of boy

2011-02-12T19:23:00.002+10:00

Oh boy! Oh boy! It's that time of the year already when Made by Rae features a WHOLE month of boy goodness. I can't wait to see what it is revealed. It's nice to see the spotlight on creations for boys!

Kid's clothing sewing swap - get out your sunnies!

2011-01-30T10:43:00.006+10:00

It's that time again, and sewers were keen so we kicked off another Kid's clothing sewing swap in the sewing forum that I frequent. For those who are new to this concept, it involves sewing an outfit for another sewer's child. For me it is a chance to sew something different (perhaps a girl's outfit?) and to try to be a bit more creative than usual.
Like last year, I'm sewing two outfits and have started on one of them. It is rather bright, but Kaiden and Jordan love it so I hope that is a good indication. Here's a little look at the fabrics I've chosen.

Bowling Shirt

2011-01-09T21:05:00.012+10:00

Another item which I started last year but didn't finish until the other day - a bowling shirt. The style does remind me a bit of Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men.

It is getting harder and harder to get a 'nice' photo of Kaiden. Why do little boys insist on such a silly grin?

This pattern comes with options for different colour blocks and opportunities for machine embroidery and I may be more adventurous to give this a try next time now I have sewn it once. It is quite a roomy shirt but it does mention in the instructions that you can use a size smaller for a more tailored fit. And the pattern also includes different lengths so it is easy to lengthen if need be. For the first time though, it is a cotton print selected by Kaiden on a visit to Spotlight. Who could resist a special request for fabric?

Fabric: Spotlight, selected by Kaiden
Pattern: Bowling shirt by the Scientific Seamstress

Little Lizard Vest

2011-01-08T11:44:00.009+10:00

Technically finished last year, but recorded as the first for 2011, a vest from a yet-to-be-released Little Lizard Vest pattern modeled by now fully walking/running/chasing over his big brother, Jordan.

This was my first 'test' sewing which meant that I was supplied the pattern to sew and supply feedback to the designer. There were a couple of suggestions I made to improve the pattern.

The vest fully reversible with denim on one side with bleach features (made by sewing small darts and then rubbing with a small amount of bleach) and a small applique car. The other fabric has a car print. It was the first time I have ever made covered buttons which is hard to believe. Apart from being a bit fiddly and the denim too thick, they are a great idea especially for boys as it is hard to find nice boy buttons.

Reverse

Car fabric: Sewco
Denim fabric: Gardams
Pattern: Little Lizard Reversible Vest

Tutu Bag

2010-12-05T15:40:00.008+10:00

I made this the other week for a little girl in a Secret Santa swap. A little birdie told me that something with ballerinas would be a hit so this bag instantly came to mind. The pattern is now available as a free download from Jodie Charlton (Ric Rac's blog).
Fabric, tulle, trim: Spotlight
Pattern: Ballerina bag by Jodie Charlton

Oliver & S Sailboat pants

2010-12-05T15:11:00.005+10:00

At first when I tried these on Kaiden they were half-made and not looking too good. But now they are finished they look better on and are quite smart looking for a little boy. An easy pattern to sew, especially the second time around.
Pattern: Oliver & S Sailboat pants
Fabric: Purchased on sale from Sewco early 2010

Funky Friends Koala

2010-12-05T14:48:00.005+10:00

Here's my Cameo Koala getting farewell kisses from Kaiden before going to her new home. She is extremely cute and adds to the tribe of Funky Friends patterns that we have made and given away.
Pattern: Kikki Koala by Funky Friends
Fabric: cameo fleece courtesy of my neighbour and funky friend Gail

Doll Quilt Swap # 4 Received

2010-11-05T17:36:00.005+10:00

We received our swap quilt in the post today, which is also the opening day. It is for the boy's room and handmade by Tina (who I also quilted for). It is a scene with cars which will fit nicely with the theme of the boy's room (once I get onto actually decorating it). Kaiden especially loves the different textures on the quilt and Jordan loves the buttons!

Doll's Quilt / Wall Hanging Swap

2010-11-02T20:25:00.007+10:00

(Photo by Tina)

It has been quite a while since I have unveiled a major finished item and this is the reason why. I have been concentrating on this wall hanging for the Doll's Quilt Swap on the Essential Baby forum for the past month (apart from a few little projects here and there).

My partner was Tina who requested a wall hanging for her little girl's room. The colours in the room are aqua and red and she was after something with a 'whimsy' feel, think "Alice in Wonderland".

I have such great sewing friends on EB and this lovely lady came to my rescue again with a bundle of aqua and red, including some fabrics which were exactly the same as quilt in Tina's daughter's room.

So I sketched out a design based on a pattern in a Homespun magazine then found this hand embroidery pattern which I happened to already have saved in my files.

Add some fabrics from Spotlight, a few from local quilt shops and some many nights doing the embroidery and she all came together.

But then I had no idea how to quilt it. Fortunately, another very talented EB quilter, Emma, saved me with a diagram and then I set forth to quilt.

There were so many things which were 'new' for me in the process. I'd never made pinwheels (aren't they a type of sandwich?) or pierced together my own patchwork design. I'd never binded a quilt and never made my own label.

But I still gave it a go, and even pierced together fabric to make the backing fabric.

I'm really pleased with how it all turned out. I think would look fantastic on a little girl's wall. Especially if you like aqua and red.

BACK

LABEL IN POSITION

Blogtoberfest #30 ....FAIL!

2010-10-30T08:00:00.005+10:00

So I've failed at Blogtoberfest. Days just got away and we visited Dad for five days. The boys all had a great time with toasting marshmellows, visit to the beach and playing with neighbours. It was painfully slow to do anything online with his dial-up service (not for want of trying to get faster internet or promises of improved service by Telstra).

When we returned, I have been busy working on my quilt for the swap. It should really have been mailed yesterday but I'm behind and now up to squaring up and binding which is completely new and scary territory for me. So while I'm contemplating that I have designed up the label (which I now think needs a nice border). Opening day is this coming Friday so I'm hoping that by finishing over the weekend and mailing on Monday that it will still reach by recipient in time.

I have also been testing a pattern and hope to have photos soon (perhaps once this quilt is on its way).

Blogtoberfest #18 All basted up but no where to go...

2010-10-20T14:56:00.003+10:00

Here is the final little bits of fabric I purchased for my doll quilt swap.

I'm behind on Blogtoberfest but I have been busy with work, life and doing bits and pieces on this project.

I've now basted the layers together and I'm really to quilt. Problem is I'm not exactly sure where to go from here.....

Blogtoberfest #16 Operation Christmas Child

2010-10-16T19:49:00.002+10:00

I'm trying to pull together at least one shoebox to send for Operation Christmas Child.

I had this tee in the sewing stash so traced off an Ottobre applique for it last weekend. This shoebox will be for a three year old boy. Sorry it's a bit blurry...

Blogtoberfest #15 10 weeks until Christmas

2010-10-15T18:56:00.003+10:00

I can't believe it! But I just love having our house decorated. This photo is from a couple of years ago, we have even more now.

Blogtoberfest #14 My little Tiger

2010-10-14T19:28:00.004+10:00

Blogtoberfest #12 A working day

2010-10-13T13:19:00.009+10:00

It was wet and rainy (still) but I had to head off to work. Because it was a bit gloomy, I wore my new dress which I purchased from Ozsale at the amazing price of $25 plus postage. They often have designer clothes on there all at discount prices as well as jewelery, handbags, kid's clothing, men's clothing, homewares. I've also purchased clothing for Kaiden from the site before but the dress was my first venture into women's wear. I was a bit worried about the fit and if the style would suit but you can return goods for a store credit if it isn't right and you keep the tags on.
If you would like to check it out, please use this link..
http://www.Ozsale.com.au/registration.aspx?invitedby=Brissmiths
And if you don't buy today, but want to down the track, please come back and use this link as I get $10 for every friend who buys...so go do some shopping!!
(sorry photo of the dress isn't all that good - it is hard when you have a baby stuck to your hip)
For extra cheer I add a pink bag (not from ozsale but from my cupboard) />

Blogtoberfest #9 Well yesterday...

2010-10-09T18:32:00.002+10:00

I did cook dinner early. I made lentil bolognese using the DreamPot which was a present from Brett's parents. I'm still experimenting with using it for cooking and I really should have followed the recipe book which says to soak the lentils overnight. Instead the lentils were still a little bit chewy but it was much better the beef stroganoff Brett made the other night which needed alot more stewing. Luckily we are getting some practice in before we take it away for camp cooking. Next I might try rice custard.

Blogtoberfest #8 Today I should be...

2010-10-08T09:58:00.004+10:00

...doing housework, getting a head start on dinner because I won't feel like it after the dentist, going to the gym.

Instead I'm...dreading going to the dentist, deciding the housework can wait, putting off the gym and wondering what I'm going to do with this....

I need a little bit of help with my DQS. So if you're a quilter and willing to lend me a hand, please leave a comment and I'll send you a full picture.
I'm trying to work out:
a) Do I need to put another row of sashing around before I bind, if so, what colour?
b) How on earth do I quilt this thing - remembering that I'm a beginner so the thought of stippling worries me a bit.

OK, better go and do something...

Blogtoberfest Day #7 Catch-up

2010-10-08T09:52:00.002+10:00

Oh boy so tired yesterday but today is a new day and after a sleep I'm feeling a little refreshed. In the Ravelry swap a couple of months ago I received a couple of balls of Peaches and Cream yarn which is excellent for wash clothes. So I knitted up these couple to put away for Christmas gifts - maybe for K's daycare carers.

Blogtoberfest Day #6 Wednesday...

2010-10-06T18:57:00.005+10:00

Loving this..how many skirt patterns should a girl have?
Trying hard to resist shopping here...
Gave into buying Kaiden new clothes from here...

Blogtoberfest Day #5 Saving my life

2010-10-04T21:13:00.011+10:00

I am a self-confessed library addict. Not only do I stalk the 'what's new' section of the library catalogue; I email the library to ask them to buy certain books to add to their collection; and as I enter the library I cast my eye over the books in the front 'feature' section to see if there is anything that looks interesting. I think it comes from fond memories of a weekly trip into town which always incorporated a stop at the library and bringing home a bundle of books.

This week, I picked up this book. "A Pressure Cooker Saved My Life" by Juanita Phillips. I think it was the byline, "How to have it all, do it all and keep it all together", especially the "keep it all together" bit. It is a refreshingly honest book about Juanita's road to discovering how to juggle work and family. There are a few insights in the book which I'll share over coming days but the focus of her book is about using a pressure cooker to quickly cook nutritious meals. Does anyone use a pressure cooker? I'd have to say that the thought of it scares me a bit. Like it might explode?

Our Funky Friends Feature!!

2010-10-03T19:35:00.005+10:00

Funky Friends had a facebook competition where by uploading a photo of your finished friend you would go into the draw to win $100 worth of patterns and kits. While we weren't the lucky winner, the boys did end up featuring on their blog with the snake (later rehomed as a birthday present and now lives with Chris) and Mitch the Monkey (later rehomed as a swap item and now resides with Jack). Can you tell that I'm excited just by that? There are lots of Funky Friends to choose from and if you want to see what the different ones are like sewn up and what you can do with them, check out their Facebook gallery. Pauline from Funky Friends will also be at the Craft Show in Brisbane which is on towards the end of October so you can check the patterns out IRL.

At our place today

2010-10-03T19:21:00.005+10:00

A little bit of Batman...

a little bit of cheekiness

...but not much crafting ( maybe tonight although we do have a little boy who isn't feeling well so will have to see how it pans out)

Blogtoberest

2010-10-02T18:32:00.001+10:00

Welcome to October! To celebrate I'm going to inflict you with a post a day (if I can...) during the month now known as Blogtoberfest...Let the blogging begin!

A bloombub day, Blogtoberfest Day #4

2010-10-01T16:38:00.007+10:00

Finger pointing is a favourite around here

A better photo of the little crochet tree on the tee. Jordan wore his with a shirt over the tee as it was a bit cool.

Kaiden in his lounge pants (sorry tee was left at home)

Fellow sewer Belinda has launched her own line of baby and toddler wear and we were fortunate to receive a custom-made set of lounge pants and embellished tee. Comfy yet stylish is how I'd describe them and the singlet with the crocheted embellishment is so cute. The other good thing is that her prices are affordable so you can pick up something unique without dishing out a fortune. So if you are looking for something for your liitle one (boy or girl) or a nice little gift for a birthday or Christmas head over to Bloombub! This is great timing as Belinda has a giveaway where you can win two items from her her summer range. And you can also catch Belinda at the Mummy Tree Markets in Morningside on October 31.

Olearia - finally something finished!

2010-09-27T21:14:00.007+10:00

This little girl's cardie with the gathered bodice was a relatively quick knit (well three weeks is quick for me). It features a gathered bodice and elbow length sleeves. I used a hand-dyed wool based on Bendigo Wool called "Eleanor Rigby" from Whimsical Wool. I think this pattern would look even nicer in a solid colour but I love still how it turned out. Unfortunately, it isn't staying in this household and will be making it's way to a new home soon. Georgie Hallam who wrote both the Milo and Olearia pattern is certainly a very talented designer and I would certainly recommend this pattern to others as it comes with lots of options - shrug, cardigan - all over gathering and different sleeve lengths. I believe she has boy patterns in the pipeline - I can't wait to see what she will release.

Puppy cake

2010-09-27T06:45:00.003+10:00

The other week Brett decorated a puppy cake for twins who were celebrating their third birthday. The bones were my idea but he did the puppy design based on a photo of a similar cake on the internet. The bones were my contribution! We happened to have 'Arnie' visiting from Kaiden's daycare. He was suitably impressed by the cake.

EB Doll's Quilt Swap - fabrics

2010-09-27T06:35:00.004+10:00

Here's a sneaky look at some of my fabrics for the doll's quilt. There are a few more than these which arrived in the post the other day thanks to a generous EB friend.

For a moment I was feeling unloved...

2010-09-22T19:48:00.002+10:00

unread..and unvisited. And then I realised that I changed my settings. As much as I enjoy the odd Chinese proverb I was getting a bit sick of it so changed the settings requiring the moderator (me!) to approve comments before uploading. Apologies to those who have visited and left me some kind words. I promise to be more attentive.

EB Doll Quilt Swap

2010-09-13T12:40:00.009+10:00

Why oh why did I sign up to the EB Doll Quilt Swap? I've never finished (note finished, I have started a quilt, two in fact) a quilt, and never designed my own. I guess I must like a bit of a challenge.

I know who I'm sewing for. I know what she likes and I know what design I'm making. I have some fabric.

So to guide the person who is sewing for me, I've promised to put up some details of the boy's room where the doll quilt (aka wallhanging) is going to take pride of place.

K and J share a room. It is quite a large room, but doesn't get alot of natural light due to the position of the window.

The walls are painted in Dulux "self-destruct" which is a light brown colour. If you google it or look it up on the Dulux paint chart you can see what looks like (note: this isn't their wall but some stranger's hall way). I'm not going to show photos of the room - there is nothing much to show at the moment.

Kaiden's bed has a purchased doona. Yes I know that is shocking but one day I pledge to cover it with something handmade. He likes cars so I'm thinking that as I decorate the room once the change table goes that there will be a "planes, trains and automobiles" theme. That way, if Jordan doesn't like cars at least we have two other options.

This is one of the pictures on his current doona. The cover is light blue with a red border at the bottom.

That being said though I'd like to redo his quilt in bright colours. I just love this fabric Truck Stop. I'm thinking reds, greens, yellows and blues on a base of white.

So I'm hoping my swap recipient will digest all of this and I'm sure will come up with something amazing.

In the boy zone - EB Kid's sewing swap - sent item #2

2010-09-06T21:32:00.012+10:00

I challenged myself to make for two people in the swap. After all, it wasn't fair for one of our boys to receive and not the other? The second person I made for was Claire's little boy who is just a little bit younger than Jordan.

I made a pair of Oliver & S shorts and embroidered them with an applique and words in a car theme. The t-shirt was made using an Ottobre pattern and embellished with an applique. I finished off the outfit with a little vest, still going with the car theme.

Fabric: See I am using fabric from my stash!! Shorts made with denim from a Gardams sale purchased 2009. It had been folded for storage so had some fold marks in it which were only slightly noticeable but I couldn't remove them so I created more marks by distressing the fabric some more! I wanted to do some form of distressing anyway. I stitched some seams, then ran over them with sandpaper dipped in bleach, let them dry then unpicked the stitching.

T-shirt made with stretch fabric from Spotlight purchased 2006.

Vest made with Michael Miller fabric purchased from Sewco 2007, lined with denim same as the shorts.

Notions: buttons from a Ravelry swap.

Embroidery: Car and lettering from Bunnycup designs

Patterns: Oliver & S Sailbox pants size 12 - 18 months. I hadn't used this pattern before despite it being in my cupboard for a year. I found these easy to sew but next time would use a lighter weight denim as it was quite thick in parts. The fit is quite trim so if I was making these for Jordan I would increase them in the rise.

Shirt pattern: Ottobre 1/2008 I found the neck too tight so cut it lower either that or my tester Jordan has a big head. Made a little car applique which is appliqued onto cotton fabric first then straight-stitched to the shirt. I don't think this is my best effort, I don't like stretch sewing!! I don't think making a baby's t-shirt will be in my future again.

Vest pattern: Free pattern download from Leila & Ben

EB Kid's sewing swap - received for Jordan

2010-09-06T21:15:00.005+10:00

We received this very cute little outfit (I now have the best-dressed boys in town) from Naomi who lives in Maryborough. And yes, Naomi I hope I can pop in one day when we are up their visiting to say 'hi'. Naomi admitted that was just getting back into sewing again but when you see this outfit you would never know! Unfortunately it was a bit hard to photograph on a little boy who would not sit still but there is a denim vest with pockets and topstitching, a pair of denim shorts (I love the topstitching on these especially), a t-shirt with a cute puppy embellishment and hat. Naomi also crochets and sent a beanie for the cooler weather and some special treats for me - a pincushion and some chocolates!!!
Thanks Naomi - the way you styled this outfit is just amazing. There are some closer looks on Naomi's blog

EB Kid's sewing swap - received for Kaiden

2010-09-06T21:00:00.004+10:00

Kaiden received a 'Woody' inspired outfit from Penny in the eb sewing swap. Penny has some great photos over on her blog showing all the detail in these. The shorts have adjustable elastic in the waitband, are top stitched and have little rivets. The top is western-style with pearl snaps and topstitching. She did an amazing job. Brett commented that it looked so professional! Thank you Penny. We love the outfit and the 'Woody' vest was a great surprise.

Jordy turns one

2010-09-06T19:13:00.013+10:00

Our little guy turned one a couple of weeks ago and celebrated with a special party with family. Kaiden picked out the birthday cake, of course from the Women's Weekly cake book, and it had to be a train.

A whole afternoon of work was spent cutting, icing and decorating by Brett and his special helper Kaiden. Kaiden especially thought it was alot of fun.

Laying down the tracks and wheels

In the morning ready for the cake even before the party has begun

The cake (notice all the wheels are on.. one by one they slowly started to fall off)

Front view

Kaiden also made jelly cups, after all he is known as the "jelly king".

Getting ready to blow out the candle.

Nothing like a good feed of cake!

Opening presents

Happy birthday to our little guy. May you have many more wonderful years surrounded by the love of family and friends.

I believe you can fly

2010-09-06T19:13:00.010+10:00

I believe I can fly
I believe I can touch the sky
I think about it every night and day
Spread my wings and fly away
I believe I can soar
I see me running through that open door
I believe I can fly

Kaiden, at 3 and 3/4 you take a footpath and turn it into a runway. A box is a car. Fireworks aren't red and yellow - they are apples and bananas. My gorgeous boy.

Releasing my inner girl.....

2010-09-06T12:21:00.007+10:00

The EB kid's sewing swap is the one time of the year that I can go "girly" with my sewing. This year I sewed two outfits, one was for Lisa's little girl Ashley. Lisa has included a pic of the dress I made being worn, plus the photo from the Ottobre magazine on her blog Beetlehouse Designs. I also took a photo of the dress before it left but it was hard to photograph well.

The outfit is the Romantic Dress and underskirt from Ottobre Issue 3/2007. It was quite easy to make once I worked out how to sew it up as the instructions in Ottobre are quite basic and there are no pictures / diagrams to guide you as you go along. It has given me more confidence in sewing from the Ottobre magazine and I loved making something different to what I normally might sew.

The dress can be worn with the underskirt although I put an extra button down lower as I thought it could always be undone to let the underskirt show through.

A special thank you to Karen for her advise with button placement and the girls over at Crafty Mama's who gave me lots of help with my Ottobre questions!

And I can't forget Kaiden...about half-way through making the dress I realised the Kaiden and Lisa's little girl were very similar with their measurements. While Kaiden did think the dress was very pretty, there was only so many times I could bribe him with chocolate to try it on for size.

Pattern: Ottobre Romantic Dress and underskirt Issue 3/2007
Fabric: Lincraft purchased July 2010
Notions: Ribbon, lace trim from Lincraft. Lace dyed grey to match the fabric. Buttons from Spotlight

The best thing about my Mum's kitchen

2010-08-16T21:28:00.003+10:00

...is the tupperware drawer!!

One of Jordan's favourite spots is the tupperware drawer. He loves to pull out different containers and transport them around the house.

Dog's day at playgroup

2010-08-16T21:17:00.002+10:00

One of the Dad's at playgroup is a police officer with the dog squad and he organised some puppies to come to playgroup to show the kids. The squad car came as well and it was a big hit, even more so than the puppies.

Being a big brother means...

2010-08-16T20:54:00.000+10:00

sharing your fruit rope.

EB Kids sewing swap item #2

2010-08-13T21:54:00.003+10:00

I'm breathing a big sigh of relief as I have finished one of the two outfits for the EB kids sewing swap. And the second outfit is nearly there, just a bit on the top and a bit on the side to finish. Please excuse the flash photography (and the fabric pen which will be gone after a wash), but here's a couple of sneak peeks of the first outfit which is ready for a wash and a press before being sent on its way.

Little houses

2010-08-01T20:41:00.004+10:00

I've finally found the better photo of the applique picture I made for the Ravelry swap. Pattern from Australian Homesewn magazine and using fabric bits and pieces from my stash.

EB Kids sewing swap

2010-07-23T14:55:00.004+10:00

This is the one time of the year when I get to play with little girl sewing - ribbon and gathers, lace and pinks. I'm making two items for this person and I have finished one. Here's a blurry sneak peek.

Ravelry swap #2

2010-07-17T21:46:00.003+10:00

I participated in another international swap through the knitting website Ravelry. Amongst my goodies from Sara in San Francisco was this gorgeous hat she made for Kaiden.

You had to include something you made using your other hobby (ie not knitting) and I made this applique picture. You can find the pattern for it in the issue of Australian Homesewn magazine which came out last year.

Visit by the Fire Brigade

2010-07-17T20:08:00.004+10:00

Most Mondays we head off to playgroup where Kaiden gets to spend time playing with his best friend Luke, while his Mummy (or Daddy) gets to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat and Jordan gets to crawl around and explore. At our last playgroup we received a visit from the local fire brigade who after giving a brief talk (as best you can to an audience of mostly two and three year-olds) then a quick departure to see to a fire, returned to show the kids their big red truck. The kids (and some of their parents)then had a go at using the hose which was lots of fun but a bit scary as there was alot of water coming out!

Mary Poppins Festival

2010-07-10T21:11:00.008+10:00

A couple of weekends ago we visited my Dad in Maryborough and went to the Mary Poppins Festival which was a festival to celebrate the town's heritage as the birthplace of the author of "Mary Poppins". We all had a great time and it was a very well-organised festival with lots for kids (and adults) to do. There was chalk art on the pavement

Making your own tie-dye t-shirt (photo of shirt to come once it is washed)

Steam train rides

A puppet show (this was the scariest puppet)

Then making your own puppet. Kaiden ran right over to the tent to make his own after he saw the show.

And Kaiden's very first dodgem ride. I'm not sure who had the most fun - Kaiden or Brett?

Unlike some events in Brisbane, we didn't have to queue to do activities and we could get good seats to see the shows. The weather was beautiful too!

Make It Perfect Downtown Boy Jacket

2010-06-27T16:46:00.005+10:00

Fully reversible boy's jacket, size three. Made using cotton quilting fabric outer and inner with a layer of cotton wading (instead of the recommended pellon) in between. Pattern is the Downtown Boy Jacket with fabric purchased from Sewco. Kaiden, although not really wanting to pose properly for the camera today, loves the jacket, especially the hood. The jacket is very thick and warm (perhaps too much for our Brissie weather!) and has a bit of room to grow into so hopefully will be worn next winter as well before handing down to Jordan. I don't know whether I'd be bothered making it fully reversible (ie sew pockets on the inner layer) next time.

11 months

2010-06-26T07:23:00.004+10:00

mmmm chocolate mousse!
And where did the last couple of months go? The last few have just flown by with 10 months seeing Jordan reach a few milestones including:
* second lot of two top teeth coming through
* clapping
* pointing
* waving

Now at 11 months he is looking more and more like a little boy.

* He loves to stand and uses EVERYTHING as a standing post, and especially loves using your leg if you stand still for more than 30 seconds.

* Is now in size one clothes. He can no longer squeeze into 0's. They are too short in the arms and legs.

* Is very determined..the tanties are starting already if he doesn't get his own way

* Still loves his big brother. Kaiden still calls him "his baby" or "baby Jordan". They just adore each other and love making each other laugh.

* Knows what food he likes. If you are eating something he thinks would be better (like chocolate mousse) he throws his food away and looks for some of yours.

* Is very clingy (or should that be cuddly?), more than what Kaiden ever was. He loves to be picked up and held.

* Is a fidget and can't sit still for a second.

* Hates being in his cot and stands up in their yelling and jumping up and down to be taken out.

* Is starting to have one, longer nap in the afternoon.

Ron Mueck exhibition

2010-06-21T08:14:00.003+10:00

In front of "A Girl" - a huge sculpture of a newborn baby girl.

Last Friday we went to see the Ron Mueck exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art. It was amazing to see the human detail of his work and I liked that his works were open to your own interpretation. Kaiden enjoyed having a little look around; Jordan was upset most of the time (not appreciative of art at 10 months). Kaiden said though that the best part was the lemon iceblock and play at the end when we went down to the riverside. Ron began his career working on "Shirl's Neighbourhood" making and operating the puppets include "Claude the Crow". "Shirl's Neighbourhood" was one of my regular tv shows when I was growing up.

If you get a chance, go and see the exhibition.

"In Bed"

I must be crazy...

2010-06-14T19:31:00.003+10:00

for going camping in winter. But the boys (Brett, Kaiden, Jordan and Harry) had a ball, and to be honest, I had a good time too although I do prefer the warmer weather.

We used a playpen for camping only - handy when setting up/pulling down or when you need to keep a little one in safe place. Except this one tried to break out...

Kaiden and his buddy Luke played together all weekend, and even then we came home he asked if he could go over to his place.

Our camp set up...

And mega baby cuteness..pity the hat didn't stay on for more than five seconds.

We went to Brooloo Park which is a cattle property near Kenilworth.

Another cabled tie topper

2010-06-05T08:43:00.005+10:00

I finished off another Cabled Tie Topper the other week and it is now winging its way to a new destination where the weather is warming up and the days are nicer for walks outside. Sorry no modelling shot...it wouldn't fit on Jordan's large head which is OK because it is going to be gifted to a much younger little boy. I hope his Mummy likes it!

Cabled Tie Topper

2010-05-09T09:11:00.006+10:00

Dpns, i-cords, simple fair isle, now all added to my knitting bag of skills. Thanks to great support from google who helped me find some excellent tutorials although I found the two colours a bit difficult to juggle and using dpns a bit awkward. Like everything with my knitting, I guess it takes practice. I hope this Cabled Tie Topper from Tot Toppers by Kate Oates is nice enough to gift to a friend's baby. It looks very cute (Brett said it looked very 'tricky') although Jordan wasn't really in the mood for wearing it or for photos. And this isn't a really nice photo of the hat, but a nice photo of my boy...there are two more little teeth coming down from the top now.

Sandi Henderson Market Bag

2010-05-03T09:11:00.006+10:00

Lining on inside

My first attempt at the gathered version of this bag. It is also my first attempt at creating and using piping and inserting a magnetic snap. I don't know why I was worried about piping and snaps as they are very easy and there are lots of tutorials on the internet to help. This is a roomy bag and fully lined - also meeting Carolyn's challenge of the month - to make something lined. Despite the pattern missing a step in the instructions it is an easy-sew. The fabric is from Sewco. When I first saw this version I didn't really like it but now I have seen it sewn up I quite like this version of the bag.

Silly Snake

2010-04-17T08:33:00.005+10:00

This one is a huge HIT. I'm already on a promise to make another one as a birthday present for K later this year as this snake is earmarked for another little boy. Using another Funky Friends pattern, this guy was made using scraps of fleece (although I didn't have much in my fabric stash so I had to buy some little pieces especially) and was so easy to sew! Took alot of stuffing though....

Jordan, eight months

2010-04-16T16:28:00.007+10:00

Eight months, here already. Soon my baby won't be a baby, he'll be a little boy. He already has the personality - he is cheeky, happy and loves exploring. He also:
*Shakes his head
*Pulls himself up, loves trying to stand
*Hates us leaving him, even for a second
*Two teeth, bottom center (one came in at 7 1/2 months, two top teeth about to come through)
*Sometimes frequently-waking at night, probably related to the teeth
*Especially loves playing with his big brother in the bath
*Never sits still or stays still in your arms - he is a bundle of energy
*Still fits into 0s but is fast growing out of some of them, length-wise and some are getting to tight to get over his head (see below!)

Weight: 8.630g (50th percentile)
Length: 74cm (95th percentile)
Head circumference: 46cm (95th percentile)

We recently bought his 'hippy beads' - a necklace of amber beads which are to help with teething.

Kaiden still adores his little brother. He has a great imagination whether he is hunting dragons or finding monsters. He loves to sing and occasionally dance. With his new Tonka computer game he is great at using the mouse and then printing out certificates to colour-in (which he also loves to do). My favourite moment is always when he says "Mummy, I love you very much".

PS It is very difficult to take nice photos of a baby at eight-months.

Milo vest - conquering cables!

2010-04-13T19:34:00.005+10:00

I finished this little Milo vest for Kaiden using Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed in Blaze. Unlike my previous Milo, I did the cabling which I found to be not as difficult as I thought it would be. I love the colour; it reminds me of cherry ripes.

The pants Kaiden helped make...

2010-03-19T20:23:00.002+10:00

A simple pair of tracksuit pants, using fabric from my stash purchased from Lincraft. Added a simple trim of mushrooms down the side from The Habby Goddess. I see that they still have some of that twill tape in stock - very tempting! Kaiden helped sew the bottom hem by pressing down the foot pedal to do the overlocking with strict instructions on starting and stopping which he followed to the letter!! I think he will be excited to see the final product.

My "not quite a Milo"

2010-03-07T07:44:00.005+10:00

The Milo is an easy vest pattern but somewhere I got a little lost and instead I turned it into this....still looks nice especially on our gorgeous boy. It will be great to wear as the weather turns cooler and I added a little extra length to last him through the winter months.

This month he will be SEVEN months, and he ....
* Can nearly sit up by himself unsupported (especially loves it in the bath so he can play with his big brother)
* Loves kicking. If I'm breastfeeding him while on the computer he loves banking his legs on the table and cracking himself up with laughter
* Makes people smile, lots of comments on happy, smiley and gorgeous he is. This guy is a heartbreaker!
* Lots of "talking" bubbly noises and cute laughter.
* Loves his tucker. Has to eat the same food as us, no jar food for this little guy.
* Gives my breast a little massage or rub when he is feeding. He still loves his breastfeeds although they are fairly well spaced out now.
* Can propel himself across the floor at good speed although not crawling. The wooden floors are great for sliding.

Weighs 8 kilos
Height 71cm
Head circumference 45cm

On a roll

2010-03-06T07:38:00.003+10:00

Quick, easy, great birthday gifts! I've made a bunch of pencil/crayon rolls using the simple tutorial on Novy's website.

Maisie's smockie

2010-03-01T21:03:00.004+10:00

I just knew that my cousin Cheryl would have a special little girl join their family - I was really hoping and even started knitting a cute little dress before the due date in anticipation.....luckily I made the three to six months size because I finished it just in time to mail for the three-month mark! My first foray into bigger knits (well bigger than a beanie or short pants) and I mastered even more techniques this time including knitting into a stitch and mattress stitch. My skills are ever expanding! I can't wait to see little Maisie wearing this.

Ravelry swap

2010-03-01T20:20:00.006+10:00

For the first time I participated in a Ravelry swap which was an overseas one. I received some delicious goodies - a whole box full from Leslie. There were books for the boys, a terrific pattern book full of hoodies, some chocolate and lots more. I felt so spoilt. In return, I sent a package to Becky in the US. As well as sending some yummy wool, I made a cute owl brooch from felt, a set of coasters and a handy needle holder. I also gifted this beret pattern which I love but I'm not really a beret person and Brisbane isn't really a beret place IYKWIM.

Bob the Builder

2010-02-26T13:07:00.003+10:00

The other night after his bath Kaiden grabbed his 'hard hat' and 'drill' and asked if we could take his photo as Bob the Builder. Here he is...
(I don't know if you can see the dark tooth in the front but he has hit it at some stage and it has died. The dentist said to leave it and it will fall out as normal, if not a bit earlier than usual).

EB New Year Swap 2010 sent

2010-02-14T09:01:00.008+10:00

Here's part of what I sent to Becanne - Mitch the Monkey. The idea was to make something from a list of three. Bec's list of three was more like a list of 20, quite long and open and I deliberated for a while on what to make. In the end I decided to make a softie for her little boy, Jack. Jordan loved Mitch too and before he was packed up for his new home he gave him a good wrestle. It was hard to let him go. Mitch was made using a Funky Friends pattern and I see that Pauline now has kits in store which is a great idea as it can be hard to find fleece in Brisbane during summer. I made a little bag for Mitch to travel in on his journey to Jack's place, for Jack to use either as a library bag or whatever. I accidently deleted the other photos I took before they went so I have "stolen" the first two photos from Bec's blog. Check out the action shot of Mitch on the bike on Bec's blog!