Archive for the 'LuckyStitches' Category

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Slippers and Circles

Published on November 27, 2007 in Christmas Tree Skirt, Creating, LuckyStitches, about me, classes, cool ideas, craft, design, inspiration, projects, sewing, slippers, stars and workshops. 2 Comments

It’s been super cold at my house. There is no insulation in the crawlspace under our 200+ year old holey-frickin-moley farm house, so perhaps you know or can imagine what the floor may feel like. It took me a year to realize that was the reason Iz always wanted uppies in the winter time. So today at LuckyStitches we made wool felt slippers:

We drafted our own patterns from our own feet. I didn’t used to be a pattern person. When I was in school, I’d make my own clothes and clothes for my roommate before we’d go out. I’d cut bodices, sleeves, pants, skirts, all without a pattern. Then, after several years of intensive patternmaking, I’ve come to LOVE making patterns for things. I love it when things look good and have a great fit!

The orange and pink slippers were made with wonderful thick wool felt. They are comfy and warm. I think these will be the first of many. I think family members and friends will be knocking down the door…

These are mine (note the stars):

I don’t think you know this about me (except for those of you that have gone shoe shopping with me), but I have EEE wide feet. What this really means is that NONE OF MY SHOES FIT. ever. IT SUCKS! Shoe shopping is, while I try to keep a chin up and hopeful, one of the most devastating things I’ve ever done. I can literally leave a shoe store in tears because NOTHING FITS, not even the ugly shoes. sad, but so true.

Anyway, I made these slippers, and they fit. I added stars to remind me of the left and right.

I added a layer of fleece to the sole. They are warmer than I could have imagined.

With a few dabs of fabric paint, I added grippers to my slippers.

I might have to add a few pairs to my list for Christmas presents. They are fun, and would work with old sweaters and blankets too. I think my next pair will have even another layer for the sole, just for a bit more cushy-ness.

On another note, tonight was the first part of the Christmas Tree Skirt class. Below is the winner of the BostonMamas.com LuckyStitches certificate, using her dollars wisely. She’s starting this really great business around her ideas and sewing (maybe more on that later…), so we talked about that for a while, then got busy working on our skirts.

What I came to realize from our talk about Christmas Tree Skirts, is that they are so much more than the 2 pieces of hot pink satin I’ve been draping around our trees for years. Rather, they are an opportunity for family tradition and memories. While they are displayed for just a few weeks, they can come to mean so much in a lifetime.

Sew-A-Bration!

Published on November 21, 2007 in LuckyStitches, The Bag Sew, bag sew, food, friends, inspiration and sewing. 0 Comments

Monday night a bunch of bag (and lucky) stitchers got together at LuckyStitches for a little Sew-A-Bration. It was the launch day in Florence for The Bag Share. Florence Hardware, Leather & Lace and Cooper’s Corners all now participate in The Bag Share. So there was much to celebrate. With pizza, yummy soup and a bunch of other goodies all to sustain sewers, we stitched up more bags to contribute to the cause. Fabric had been donated, a bunch of machines were on hand, people were busy and the machines were humming. Oh, how I love the sound of sewing machines. The next Bag Sew at LuckyStitches is Dec 5, 6pm-9pm. Hope you can make it. We have so many bags to make!

Messenger Bags and The Bag Share

Published on November 18, 2007 in Creating, LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Jean Class, The Bag Sew, a-line skirt, bag sew, classes, design, fashion design, projects, sewing, totes and bags and workshops. 0 Comments

Ok, first – if you are a local yokel – than please visit me Monday night, 11/19 at LuckyStitches 6pm-8:30pm for a Sew-A-Bration. We’ll be sewing up more bags for the Florence Bag Share which launches the same day (celebration). So come on down! Bring a dish to share, a machine to sew and fabric will be available for bags. If you have questions: info(at)luckystitches.com or 413.695.3092 Hope to stitch it up!

On to regularly scheduled business. The latest round of newbie sewers finished their messenger bags this weekend. I know you’ve probably heard me say this before, but I just have to tell you again. Hearing these guys and gals tell me that there is no way this is going to work and be a bag, then watch as their faces light up when they turn their bags out (we sew linings into them). It’s just so freakin’ precious! I love it. I also really love that each person is able to make their bags their OWN individual bags. All the choices are their own, including what to appliqué, how many pockets, inside pockets, length of strap, closure. I really want people to leave knowing that they can really turn what they are working on into something original, even if it is from a pattern. fun right?

We practice a bunch of different things, just so people can become familiar with their machine. I encourage pressing all the buttons, levers, turning all the knobs, trying all the widths and lengths. Everyone brings different types of fabrics (above is a thick fleece – she’s using a cool fish print and a fun stitch on her new to her (but previously owned) machine and came up with something that looked like seaweed.

On the other, he used some pink satin to appliqué a one-eyed robot demon guy onto his black corduroy bag. It’s so cool! The thread he brought was a little thick, so experimenting with all these things were really fun, and what a cool surprise it was for these to become actual bags they can use.

and what lovely “LuckyStitches poses”!

Oh – on to the next…I’m working fast and furious to finish up the JanFebMar 2008 schedule. Fingers crossed, I can finish tonight! I’ll be repeating some classes, like Sewing Machine 101 (that will happen every month), Jeans and a few others, and there’s some cool stuff for the late winter and early spring. A coat class, a skirt class, a wrap dress class. Some pattern-making 101 classes, like Full Bust Adjustment and Sewing Patterns 101. I’m also introducing a Homeschooling Sewing Series. That actually starts in December. It’s starting to fill up, so if your are interested, please register sooner than later. I’m also thinking of running the winter hat class again. I so LOVE the pattern I made, it’s perfect for kids and adults. So many projects and only 3 months…

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.

Chair … Love

Published on October 29, 2007 in Decorating, LuckyStitches, about me, creative spaces, inspiration and my house. 0 Comments

The new Brocade Home catalog was in my mailbox yesterday. I like a lot of their items, but never would any of the rooms in my house look like the rooms in their catalogs.

I love this chair. I’ve been thinking a lot about chairs lately. I love my pink chairs at LuckyStitches, and I’m noticing chairs more and more. Maybe when the lounge takes off, and it’s time for new chairs, I’ll get a few of these. Although this would be quite perfect at my desk, the one I daydream about having…

A few other things I like in their catalog:

Wallpaper- not a lot of it, but a smidge, on one wall, would be lovely.

Ornaments, oh ornaments. I am so looking forward to Christmas.

Getting ready for Halloween

Published on October 19, 2007 in Creating, Decorating, Halloween, LuckyStitches, cool ideas and craft. 1 Comment

I’m a big holiday fan. It’s not that I go all out, but rather I really, really enjoy the Holidays. I love the thought put into everything, from the food, the the clothing, to the decorations and so much more. It’s a fun time to be creative and expressive. Imaginations run wild with the possibilities.

Now, as a mom to a 2 year old, it’s kind of giggly fun. Everything is new through her eyes. I find myself wanting to try things I haven’t done for years, just because Iz will get to experience it.

Here’s a sneak peak into our decorating for Halloween this year (more as we get closer):

I wish I had found *cuter* skulls. These are kind of gross in their mean-ness. She still loved them. Has anyone found *cute* skulls? Oh do tell!

This is part of Iz’s costume. We are all going to be pirates. I’m making a little apron-ish thing for her to wear as part of her costume. One of the rules this year is to use only what we have (it’s a great rule, might just as well be a standing one forever, makes it more fun!)

These are all the pieces. All rectangles. I had envisioned something a little different than what I sketched below, but as I’m working on it, I’m in love with it.

This is what most of my flat sketches look like. Actually, they have a lot more writing on them with different colors and numbers crossed out and re-written over and over again. (I keep all of them, in little books and folders – great for referring to later.)

I showed it to Iz this morning in progress, explaining that it was for her pirate costume, and she said, ” No, it’s too bling”. I kid you not. I’ve never said the word bling to her, except for when she was just a few months old and in love with the bling someone was wearing in the office I was working in.

There’s lots of great costume inspiration out there:

Sew, Mama, Sew! Halloween Pool

Intructables Costumes

Makezine Halloween Archives

And if you are nearby – don’t forget out getting some help with your costume at LuckyStitches this weekend:

Costume Night (a LuckyStitches and Art Star Event)

Skill Level – ALL WELCOME!
$35 plus the cost of any supplies

Session A – Wednesday, Oct 17 6pm-9pm
Session B – Wednesday, Oct 24 6pm-9pm

Are you putting together your costume and need a little help? Starting from a commercial pattern? Making it up as you go along? Come stitch, sew, paint, glue, you name it, get help and advice.

Supplies Needed: It will vary. Are you planning on sewing? Then bring your machine and kit and all needed materials. Are you planning on using glue and paint? Then bring your base costume and the items needed for embellishing and we’ll warm up the glue guns!

Costume Emergency (a LuckyStitches and Art Star Event)

Skill Level – ALL WELCOME
Suggested donations starting at $10

Session A – Saturday Oct 20 9AM-12PM
Session B – Saturday, Oct 27 9am-12pm

Come for 10 minutes or come for 3 hours. Spread out and work in the space, get advice, a helping hand, use the glue guns or a sewing machine.

Supplies Needed: Bring whatever you are working on, including embellishments

Sew, Mama, Sew!

Published on October 19, 2007 in Blog, Creating, LuckyStitches, about me, fabric, fabric shopping, news and sewing. 0 Comments

In case you haven’t seen it the lovely Beth and Kristin from Sew, Mama, Sew! have featured little old me and my LuckyStitches on the Sew, Mama, Sew! blog. It’s a wonderful article. Thank you!

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.

Ode to Buttercream and a Happy Bag Sew

Published on October 12, 2007 in LuckyStitches, LuckyStitches Sew-cial, The Bag Sew, bag sew, craft, creative spaces, fabric, friends, photos, sewing and totes and bags. 2 Comments

Oh Buttercream, I love you so. Not too sweet, but oh so rich and fluffy, creamy, smooth, buttery, creamy, heavenly, LOVELY! Ok, more about the buttercream in a minute.

11 fantastic fabric bags made from scraps of fabric, curtains, stashes, a throw and a nightie. That’s what we made Wednesday night. These little loverlies will get donated to the Bag Share, a Hilltown Sustainability Initiative. A local shop will get a basket of reusable bags, mostly made from fabric like what you see above, that will sit next to the cash register. Customers can borrow the bags, instead of using paper or plastic, then return them to the store (or another in active in the Bag Share program), for the next person. Extra special thanks to Tracy, Marie, Jen and Julie who stitched it up!

This one is made from a throw. It’s groovy bag – check out that fringe!

This is made from really cool old green curtains. (This is Marie. Hi Marie! She and I are sharing the space, she’s holding art workshops – ArtStar)

Labels get sewn onto the bags as they are finished.

It was a really fun Sew-cail. We’ll be doing it again, more regularly after the holiday season. While we were able to finish 11 bags, we still got in a few good stories (note the arms in the air) We had coffee, tea and lovely, lovey cake, baked by Marie and partially donated by Bread Euphoria (Thanks – it was awesome!)