Archive for the 'classes' Category

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Busy As A Bee.

Published on November 14, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, classes, design, fashion design, inspiration, projects, sewing, sewing for Iz, sewing patterns, stars, wardrobe and workshops. 2 Comments

Whew. Tons going on. LOTS of sewing too! (yippeee for me!) The machines have been humming at LuckyStitches. We’ve been making so much fun stuff over the last few weeks, I can hardly stand it (I had to lie down to type this…).

I’m super proud of all the projects and each and every LuckyStitcher, so note that these are all mentioned in no particular order.

Pajamas

I didn’t take pictures of the other pjs, but they are really cute, one pair of flannel lined pants (lined with flannel…oh SO warm!) and another sweet striped tunic and pants, also made from flannel. Now…this might seem selfish – but it really was unintentional, but I have pictures of what I’ve been working on:

Here’s my initial purchase:

I really LOVE the pattern. I fell in love with the illustration of the kids in PJs especially the one modeling the style (C) I’m making for Iz. I love it so much, I want to frame it. Nerdy? Dorky? Geeky? Perhaps…am I gushing?

and I love the buttons (more geekdom…). Stars make my heart pitter patter a bit faster than normal and I found these:

Here’s the first pair (I’m making three…) finished:

On Iz (ugh, I CAN’T stand that wood paneling. It made Elmo pass out..)

Iz LOVES her PJs. “Oh Mama, I love them, they are stupendous and so soft!” She’s been using the camera – and here’s her self portrait:

Sewing Machine 101

I know, where’s the sewing machine? Well I can’t wait to show you the messenger bags these LuckyStitchers are making. Here we put in a magnetic snap, but wait till it’s finished and you’ll see her appliqué, bag, zipper pouch…all practicing all the fun stuff we talked about the first class. Let me tell you, these guys and gals are getting LOTS of practice threading machines, making patterns, sewing seams, topstitching, and they have become best friends with Mademoiselle Seam Ripper. After this weekend, I’ll have proper pictures of finished messenger bags, proof that they have learned how to use their sewing machines!

Make A Pattern From Your Clothes

How many times have you found something wonderful that you can’t wear anymore because the fabric has fallen apart? Yoga pants, a favorite hoodie and a J Crew summer dress can now all be made again, out of favorite fabric, season after season. Everyone learned how to make patterns from their clothes (either leaving them whole or cutting them apart). Can’t wait to see what they want to make next…

Sewing With Fleece

I had actually intended this class to work with squares, circles and rectangles of fleece, embellish with appliqué, but it turned into SEW MUCH MORE. I quickly demonstrated how to draft a pattern of a hat, I always want people to leave learning every aspect of each project, so I always try to help them through the creative process of making something from conception (sketch and pattern) to completion (sewn article). So we drafted a pattern and worked with a few different types of fleece. I LOVE the hats:

My endangered species hat.

I made this one this morning. Hmmm. I might have to make a pattern available. It’s so easy and quick! I made this one in less than an hour.

I’ve been working on the LuckyStitches Messenger Bag Pattern. I took pictures explaining the whole process, and I can’t stand them. Except for a few…but it’s back to the drawing board (or cutting table) to pick some different fabrics that would photograph better.

Magical Bags…

Published on October 30, 2007 in Creating, Doll Quilt, LuckyStitches, WIP, cape, classes, costume, fabric, projects, quilts, sewing, sewing for Iz, totes and bags and workshops. 1 Comment

Yes, these are magical. These LuckyStitchers made these really amazing and wonderful and so-well-made messenger bags for Sewing Machine 101 Class. I had so much fun, I think they really had fun too. The bags are each so special and spectacular. Great fabrics, fun appliqués and pockets, one even with a zipper! I really enjoy teaching people to sew. For me, it’s like a sew along, but I get to share what I’ve learned, and it’s even more wonderful to see the amazement on faces when they turn something right side out and realized that they made a bag! MAGIC! (not really, just patience, practice and direction…). There were some other photos, but this is my favorite. These three kindly humored me as I asked them to give me a “LuckyStitches” pose. The bags look better this way – don’t you think?

I made this little cape today for Marie’s oldest, she’s going to be Word Girl for Halloween. How cool is that?

The doll quilts started this past weekend at LuckyStitches, here’s one getting “stripped” up! Jen has an amazing amount of fat quarters. I think this one might make it to crib size…stay tuned.

Here’s mine, all pieced together. I used scraps from my first quilt.

Learning to Use Your Sewing Machine and Domestic Inspiration

Published on October 17, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, about me, book review, classes, craft, family, friends, inspiration, kindness, my house, projects, sewing and totes and bags. 2 Comments

Last night was part 2 of the 4 part Sewing Machine 101 class where we are stitching up our own messenger bags. The fabric choices are creative, the applique designs/concepts sparkle and I can’t wait to show you more after next Tuesday. Here’s a sneak peak:

I’m sure by now, you’re up to date on the whole brouhaha about Jane Brocket’s book The Gentle Art of Domesticity. You can hear the interview that sparked it on BBC Women’s Hour.

I don’t really need to add my 2¢ (but…). I think you know, after all, I’ve sewn all my life making my own clothes and many, many gifts, been the breadwinner for many years, taught myself to knit, CHOSE to leave my office job to raise my daughter, and most recently launched a business, yes, a sewing business.

Through blogs, circles, groups all of these have social aspect too. For me it’s all about inspiration. I hope to inspire others and be inspired. How boring if I sat in my chair in front of the television by myself and did nothing but veg? I don’t want a mush brain. I choose to sew and knit and bake and craft it up. Keep my brain thinking about patterns and colors and textures, all of which include color theory, math and vocabulary and pattern making. I want to learn new things. I rarely do the same project twice, I’d rather pick something I haven’t done before, something challenging, change the pattern, scale, use an unexpected color or medium. It’s even better if I can experience it with like minded individuals who are just as passionate (or more) about it as I am. And all this while I raise my daughter and make a home for my family (I didn’t say it would pass the white glove test).

It’s disappointing to me to hear people complain about what other people do with the choices they make about the creative outlets they choose. While I wouldn’t want to run a marathon, 26 miles isn’t for me, I’ll be their cheerleader on Lafayette Ave (NYC Marathon route). I don’t want to write a book, but hey if that’s what you want to do, go for it, I can’t wait to read it.

Maybe those complainers need to be more critical with their own creative outlet choices than with others, and should be thrilled that they are able to choose what’s best for them.

Ready to Make Some LuckyStitches!

Published on October 9, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Sew-cial, The Bag Sew, classes, projects, sewing, sewing machines, thrift and totes and bags. 4 Comments

These are the keys. They belong to the space I’m renting with my friend Marie. They open the door to the new lounge. They hang on one of my most favorite fobs, a wire ball given to me from my most favorite work family.

These are the chairs. I immediately contracted goosebumps when Marie and I found them at Ikea. Not only were they super affordable, but they are comfortable too! They stack beautifully, leaving lots of room for a dance party

This is the vintage 1940s Industrial Singer that will be up and running soon. Perfect for heavy fabrics, like canvas or leather (yummy!) bags. Soon it will be available for Lucky Stitchers to visit and rent.

And this is the messenger bag we’re making in Sewing Machine 101 (intensive). This one is mine, made from a thrifted vintage bed skirt. The colors are quite lovely, and seemed so appropriate to make during these summer October weeks.

I had my first LuckyStitchers in the space tonight. It’s always fun helping people learn how to use their sewing machine and stitch up a groovy project of which they can be proud. I’m excited to see the fabric next week for the Messenger Bags we’ll be making. I’ve given them a basic design, and if they’d like they can tweak it, so we’ll do a little pattern making 101 too. So much to learn and it’s so fun when LuckyStitchers bring in their cool, sometimes old, some new machines, with really beautiful fabrics and fresh ideas.

And a reminder – tomorrow is the Wednesday Night Sew-cial and Bag Sew. This bag was made from a nightie. The armholes make perfect sleeves, and the neck, the perfect opening for groceries and other goodies you might need to carry.

Jeans, Jeans and Jeans, oh to have a pair of Perfect Jeans

Published on September 28, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Jean Class, Perfect Jeans, classes, design, fashion design, projects and sewing. 1 Comment

I am so in search of the perfect pair of jeans. It’s been over 2 years since the birth of Iz, and well, I just can’t wear those lo-rise thingys. For really 2 reasons.

First – My middle hangs out over the waist band. I hate that. I hate it so much it makes my skin crawl. If I could join the gym, I would, but there isn’t one close by. I’m working on that middle, but in the mean time, I’d like to feel good about my bod, so I’d like a pair of jeans that don’t cut into me, yet support my mama middle belly.

Second – I bend over, squat, get on the floor what seems like every minute of my day. I don’t need people looking at my underwear, butt..ahem, or down my pants. Plus, my underwear just isn’t that fabulous these days (maybe that will change this Christmas dear husband..hint hint).

So, you see, I need a pair of jeans that fits me PERFECTLY. But perfect is a tough thing to come by. I’ve tried on so many pairs of jeans, inexpensive, moderate, better, bridge. I can’t really afford anything above inexpensive these days (and Old Navy seems to be catering to the lo-rise fan club), so I’m stuck. But not really anymore. I decided to do something about it. I’m going to make a pair of jeans that actually fit and look good. And, I’m going to do it with a few other stitchers…

I’ve been doing a bunch of research. I found this old article in Glamour Magazine. Click here to see pictures from the article.

Of course, after trying on all these jeans, I can tell you what I want in my jeans:

I want them to fit, my butt, waist, thighs and look flattering, make me taller and slimmer looking.

I want them to be comfortable, yet provide a bit of tummy control.

I want cool pockets on the back, placed just so, so my butt looks smaller than it is.

Here are some other info links:

Susannah and Trinny on Oprah – They are my FAVE!

2007 Jeans Guide at StyleBakery.com

Tyra Banks Show

WikiHow.com

NZGirl.com

True Jeans via Erica B’s- DIY Style!

Zafu.com

Denimology

Click for more information on the class at LuckyStitches.

Up Next…T-shirt and coat

Published on September 25, 2007 in LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches T-shirt Class, WIP, classes, design, fabric, fabric shopping, fashion design, projects, sewing and t-shirt. 1 Comment

I ordered these from SewingPatterns.com the other day.

After reading this pattern review on SewingPatternReview, I decided I must try this coat. Looks like it is pretty versatile, good for spring, good for fall and winter. I’m thinking a faux persian lambs velvet in a hot color (umm, like GARNET!) with a contrast lining. And, because I live in New England, I want to use Thinsulate.

Then for my T-shirt class, I thought I’d try the t-shirt pattern from Jalie. I’ve read many a blog on stitchers working with Jalie patterns, and I’m pretty excited to try it. I have a favorite t-shirt, I love the neck drop and length, so I’ll be adjusting the pattern to match that T. I do love that the pattern is all sizes, so I’ll be tracing my pattern to pattern paper, so I can use the pattern again for my daughter (when she’s a bit older). Plus it’s a nice heavy paper, much less delicate than the normal tissue paper. I’ve got a few lightweight jerseys to try for this pattern, but I really want to find a cozy wool jersey. Can anybody share a good place on-line for light weight wool jersey? I might try this one. Or this. Perhaps this one.

T-shirt Class info at LuckyStitches:

Skill Level – Advanced Beginner (must know how to sew)
$125

Saturday Oct 13, 20 2PM-5PM

Working from a commercial pattern, we’ll fit and stitch up your best fitting t-shirt yet! All of this while learning / practicing how to sew a knit! FUN! Seriously, you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to work with knits. For fun – since it’s winter, pick a wool jersey to make your t-shirt, nice an cozy!)

Supplies Needed: Your Sewing Machine, Your Sewing Kit, a commercial pattern, fabric and notions as noted on your pattern envelope. Pattern Paper will be available during class.

LuckyStitches – New web site and classes! FINALLY!

Published on September 17, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, classes, projects, sewing and workshops. 0 Comments

Whew. Sure did take a while, but the new LuckyStitches web site is alive and well, filled with great classes for October, November and December. I am so excited about this season:

Wednesday Night Sew-cials
Drop-In & SEW!!!
Sewing Patterns 101
Hem Your Own
Print with Freezer Paper
Morning Stitch Sessions
Sewing Machine 101 (Intensive)
Zippers 101
T-shirt Class
Sew with ME!!!
Learn to Applique!
Make a Pair of Jeans that Fit!
Doll Quilt
Costume Night (a LuckyStitches and Art Star Event)
Costume Emergency (a LuckyStitches and Art Star Event)
Pajama Party!
Make a Sweater Scarf
Christmas Tree Skirt
Holiday Ornament Series (a LuckyStitches and Art Star Event)

There will be more info to follow. I hope you can all visit!

xoZ

Twirly Skirt

Published on June 16, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, The Children's Art Museum, Twirly Skirt, classes, design, photos, projects, sewing, sewing for Iz and sewing with kids. 1 Comment

Iz loves her skirt. I made TWO, yes TWO last night in less than TWO hours. These are so much fun to make. And Iz just loves it. She picked out the fabric. I mentioned to her yesterday that I was going to make her the skirt and showed her the fabric (that she picked out at the store) and she declared that the fabric was too big for a skirt and she didn’t like it. She’s TWO! Anyway, I can’t get the thing off her now. What I love about this skirt? Well, it has a drawstring waist, so it will grow with her, and it is just long enough that we don’t get a peak of what’s underneath when she’s sitting (most of the time). I will be making many more of these! And if you are local – I’m teaching others how to make this on Monday, June 18, 1-4Pm, at The Children’s Art Museum. And click over if you want to see more pics from our “Twirly Skirt Fashion Shoot”

Open Source Sewing

Published on June 14, 2007 in Creating, Download Patterns, LuckyStitches, Open Source Sewing, classes, cool ideas, design, fabric, fabric shopping, fashion design, inspiration, projects, sewing and workshops. 0 Comments

Have you checked out BurdaStyle.com yet? I love it. Open Source Sewing. You can download their patterns at no charge, and make your own clothes. Or download their patterns, use them as a starting point and make something new from them. I love a bunch of their stuff. I especially love the Anda Dress and check out what nikkishell has made with her Anda Dress Pattern. I’ve downloaded this dress pattern and plan on using something in my stash for it.

Yes, no fabric shopping for me. I have so much fabric, I’m looking for projects to do so I can thin the stash out a bit. I really need to buy fabric for projects instead of just buying fabrics.

Just a reminder – the Pants Class at LuckyStitches starts this weekend. We will be taking a commercial pattern and adjusting it to fit YOU! There is still room – email me from the LuckyStitches website to sign up! (There’s a free pant pattern on BurdaStyle.com if you can’t make it to the pattern store in time!)
Happy Sewing

Sheet = Bias Tape

Published on May 19, 2007 in LuckyStitches, classes, fabric, green, napkins, photos, projects, sewing, textiles and thrift. 1 Comment

Sheet = Bias Tape, originally uploaded by zannestar.

On a recent thrifting adventure, I found a lovely sheet. Great for a skirt or something fun for summer.

Then – the perfect project came up…NAPKINS. How cute would this be for napkins? And even better – BIAS TAPE binding for the napkins. I have a duvet cover that is at least 15 years old, and after it’s last wash – it fell apart. But it’s sooooo soft, I couldn’t bear to toss it. So – it will be part of my napkin project.

I have only used 1/3 of the sheet and have made 24 yards of bias tape.

I’m glad I’m making napkins. I ran out of paper napkins the other day and really don’t want to buy more paper napkins. SAVE A TREE – Make some fabric napkins. Stay tuned for the finished set of napkins….or come take the napkin class at LuckyStitches and SAVE A TREE and make your own napkins.

Archive for the 'classes' Category

Page 2 of 3

Busy As A Bee.

Magical Bags…

Learning to Use Your Sewing Machine and Domestic Inspiration

Ready to Make Some LuckyStitches!

Jeans, Jeans and Jeans, oh to have a pair of Perfect Jeans

Up Next…T-shirt and coat

LuckyStitches – New web site and classes! FINALLY!

Twirly Skirt

Open Source Sewing

Sheet = Bias Tape

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