books today

These are the latest of my sewing arsenal. Make your own patterns by Rene Bergh seems to be the best so far, because it has good pictures, so therefore I will be able to reference it easily. I've just scanned through the book but I like what I see and I am going to play around with it as soon as I finish the shirt that I am going to make. I really have to get over the fear of these patterns. But the lines on the patterns drive me crazy and that's why I've been looking for other options. The lines are so close together until I am not able to tell if it means 18,20 because they seem to run together.

The couture sewing is by Claire Shaffer and practically anything she puts together is informative even if there aren't a lot of pictures I can follow the way she writes. I've also skimmed over this book and think it is primarily talking about the origin of Couture and then there are a few examples of various other designers that she refers to as well. Also there are the basics from pockets, to sleeves, skirts ect. This book is updated and I caught the review on Amazon and thought that I would give it a try. I am quite sure that while my sewing gets better this book will be of greater value. I am really forcing myself to do this pattern. There is the lazy way...........I had a 90.00 blouse that I brought from Nordstrom some time back and I wore that white blouse until I wore the white out, but I didn't want to throw it away. I like the style because it was the first time that I brought a blouse that fit my body and I didn't look boxy. So I took the blouse apart and use it as a pattern. I also want to learn how to put on a fancy collar.

Most of the time I get ideas from these books even though I might not be able to follow the written word from them. It makes sense when I am reading it, but if there is no pictures it's hard for me to put things in place sometimes. There is another book with DVD with Claire Shaffer and I will get that next because it goes along with the book. I read the reviews on it and they have been pretty positive. So I will keep looking over these books and reading until something clicks. Once I see the picture in my head I'm good to go. When I was going to beauty school many moons ago, I would tell the teacher to show me..........don't tell me about degrees and angles. The pictures or watching it puts things right into place. That's how I became a really good hair cutter, now if I can just apply this to sewing I am going to be fine. Already though I have people fooled. They really think I know what I'm doing and I just laugh inside. I think You just have to have the eye for it.

finished skirt

I decided to leave the bottom of the skirt frayed. For some reason I like that look. I have been working on this since 2:00 this afternoon and finished around 4:00 this afternoon, but that was due to bobbin problems. My error of course. Stuck with it, but I finished at last. I had trouble with my bobbin and it kept jamming. Then I noticed that the machine doesn't like to mix two different types of threads sometimes. I had blue jean thread on the spool, and because I couldn't seem to get the button hole right and the bobbin kept jamming I decided that I would change the bobbin thread. Instead of having blue jean in the bobbin I switched to Egyptian cotton thread, and then every thing ran smoothly. In the mean time I will have to take some more of the waist in but for the time being I will do that later on. I also decided to put a zigzag stitch to support the frayed bottom. Now I am going to work on making a cop blouse. Don't know if I will do the pattern or not, just want to make a couple of things to wear for the summer.

hit and miss

I had every intention of working on the skirt. I am using my Bernina 160 and forgot how to use the manual button hole foot, not the one that works automatically. Then the bobbin thread started to tangle. I attempted to make a buttonhole three times. I think I going to change the bobbin thread to a lighter thread and see if that works better tomorrow. At least I was on the machine for an hour trying to set things up. I'll pat myself on the back. I have to thank my pal Ernie............this woman can screw up any day I have, because I know that if she calls it will be my reason not to do anything, because she will keep me on the phone for at least two hours. The trouble with that: she's doing something while she is talking on the phone with me, but if I am on the sewing machine I have to stop what I'm doing and because if I don't I will make a mistake. That my excuse and I'm sticking to it!

pushing myself

Today I forced myself to go out of the house. Primarily to keep my promise that I made to myself to complete my UFO. So I did get the blue jean thread. Then I brought gutterman thread 1094 yard. 8.00 ! Joanne's out to be shot. Yes that's right shot! but still I bitch and sew. I brought a black and a white spool. The blue jean was high as well. Then of course I walk over to get some needles. Viking has a section right there in Joanne's but they are separate from the store. They sell inspira and I got three packs of those. I like them because I get more use out of them than the smetz needles. I still am going to find a way to possibly get the organ needles. For the time being I will stick with what I am using. I hurried up and got out of the store. To tell the truth I am never tempted to buy anything in Joann's only when the have a sale. I really wanted to go to Mill end fabrics but then I would have walked out of the store without getting the needles. So I did the right thing. I'll go to mill end in the next couple of weeks............and that's a big maybe.

train of thought

I think I am going to devote time just following the blogs on a weekly basis. I notice when I do that.....that it makes me want to go and sew something. Even if I am on it for just a few minutes. Sometimes though, I forget to take the pictures. I notice that on some of the blogs women take pictures of projects in progress. So that is something I have to remember to do, in addition to just forcing myself to do something. I believe when I get my 7700 that I will be on the sewing machine everyday.

For the time being, I am starting and stopping. Just like with the blue jean skirt and running out of thread. It's a habit I should get into, involving picking up thread even when I don't need it. I am out of white thread, and black thread because, they are two most common thread used. Even though some time back I picked up blue jean thread and didn't have the denim at the time. It was a 6months or more before I got the denim, but the thread was there. These woman all seem to have their stuff in order, and looking at the blogs I feel so disorganized. So what to do? Start organizing! Just a few simple steps. It's sure nice to follow the ladies. Sometimes my jaw drops or I get an ah ha moment on something. They are all incredible with their blogs, and the dedication. It appears that even though some don't have a big following; just the idea of blogging and showing, taking pictures is cathartic.

For this period in my life I think I am really going to have to concentrate on the sewing fact. Sometimes you don't want to think about your health and what's bothering you. So I am going to make it a weekly habit of checking in with the ladies and looking at what they do. It will help me, and inspire me. It feels great just to look at the creativity out there. The ladies don't know it but these blogs really make a person feel worth while in that there is a common bond, with ladies who don't know each other yet encourage either directly or indirectly. It is still a constructive day even when you can read what someone did, because the underlying thought is: "I'm going to make something" I just want to put that out there, because there may be someone out there like me who may be going through something, or just may be stuck in a rut. Going back and forth on these blogs gives you ideas and incentive.

skirt in progress

This is the band that I put on the blue jean skirt. I wanted a more flatter fitting look. I put the zipper in, and just when I was going to complete the skirt..........I ran out of thread. So now this is going to be a UFO until I get the thread. Haven't decided whether or not to put a hem in the skirt. This is the heavy denim so I think I am going to leave it alone. So far though it doesn't look that bad. I didn't quite measure the waist right, and it appears I will have to take half an inch in, the weight of the denim alone has made the waist larger, but I would much rather have it too large than to small. I really like how the flat felled seem came out.........I finally got the picture of how this is to go, had to watch the video on youtube three times. I really need to learn how to arrange stuff on this page. Design it yourself clothes is really good with the pictures. Haven't tried anything yet, but I am going on the right track.

Just got the muslin in and I will attempt to make some blouses or shirts. My goal is to use up the stash that I have while adding on, and so far I've not been able to do that....but I am taking one step at a time. Who could ask for anything more?

long morning

After being on this computer for the past three hours or more looking at blogspots. I went to the sewing fanatic and was on her page for a good hour. I am trying to follow these inspiring blogspots to give me an incentive for sewing. I started out this morning trying to add on to a pattern only to realize that I wasn't quite doing it right. So then I ended up blog surfing via my favorite sites. I was trying to find a way to have them on the front page as people I follow. Only ending up to put in on the rss feed. I think it will be better that way. Now all I've got to do is to sew, but I really am going to try and make something for my birthday if only a pair of pull on pants. It won't be all that fancy. Well the next thing i am going to do is change the background. Time for a new look.

cutting board

I've had my cutting board since 1999 and today I broke the legs off one side of the table. So I would now only be able to use one side of the table. I was so pissed with myself. Later on I took a walk down the street, and came across a knitting shop that is closing. Lo and behold they were selling everything in the place. All must go. Guess what they had three of? Cutting boards. I also noticed in the bathroom one of the tall oval like mirror with a legs! What luck. I got them both for 30.00 bucks and that's a deal to me. Talk about timing.

I've changed the room around. I had the sewing machine sitting in front of the window for light. I now see that this apartment is going to be hot in the summer because it faces the sun. So I didn't want to take a chance on ruining the machine, and decided to move the cutting board in front of the window and that's when I broke the legs on the table. Too lazy to put the leaf down. I know better now. Well maybe I will get to finish cutting the rest of a pattern out and then do some tracing. With the new cutting board I will have to sit down. Now all I need to do is get a comfortable chair to sit in; the movers broke my sewing chair, one of the legs is missing on it. What's with me and leg on furniture?

motivation

Geez louise! I have lost my motivation again, because i am lacking in a few things I need. That's when everything comes to a halt and I end up with UFOs. Well I really have been looking at other sewing blogs so that I can gain some inspiration. I tell you my blog does not hold a candle to some of these other blogs. Really I should not be comparing at all. I am me and they are them. I hath spoken. There are times I feel like I am all talk and no action. I guess the most important thing is that I've not lost the love for sewing. I've not lost that love for a sewing machine either. Spoke to my sewing friend in Chicago and naturally she does what she always does: tell me about a deal on a sewing machine: a pffaff 2140 with everything. Of course i already know about them, but my friend wanted to email the pictures so that I can sit around and salivate over another machine. I signed up with a new magazine called: "stitch" not to be confused with the Aussie magazine "Stitches" I don't the person put into consideration that she was one letter off, or it could be that she intentionally fixed that way so that folks would buy the magazine. I like it though. For me I need more visuals combined with the text; this works so much better for me.

Right now I'm in a health frame of mind trying to gear up for the summer. Making smoothies and getting vitamins. I hate eating when I am bored, but still don't have the drive to sew yet. It will hit me and then I will do it for a few weeks. Usually I find that I do sewing just before it gets warm. Maybe I am just behind. More than likely I will use the remainder of my fabric to makes skirts this summer. I am going to get a bolt of muslin this is what I really need, and then I can quit wasting fabric because I will have the right fit. However the all the bills from last months visits and tests are now coming in and that is seriously cutting into my fabric allotment. Where is a rich man when you need him? I need to be spoiled at this point and time. Ah alas tis just a dream! So I am now back down to earth. I had to put the bag that I started on last week down for the time being, because I would like to work on buying some pleather for the straps, if not that maybe the straw like handles. I'll think of something.

latest on bag

I am not sure what I am going to do with this bag. But so far making straps for it are bulky. So I am thinking about buying handles for the bag to make it look more sturdy. I believe that this is fabric is upholstery of some sorts. The lining is a durable cotton of sorts. The bag will be sturdy for sure. I am going to give it to one of my friends. With the rest of the material I would be better off making a poncho or maybe I will experiment again and make another bag.

would you believe?

I need some real incentive here. I've been procrastinating on sewing something for weeks. Just looking at other peoples blogs trying get the drive up. I saw a free video from silhoutte patterns on making pants. I really think I'm going to get her (peggy sagers) video. That was the easiest I've seen so far. I might get some other patterns from her, but it was the simplicity in which demonstrated fitting the pants. I've saw Peggy at the sewing expo last year. I saw some of the designs and I would add some my own styling to them.

this and that

It's 12:01 and I am on this computer. I found some really nice epals and they are from Europe. It seems like there are a lot of Britts. They have answered me more so than any of the other countries. So far only one person sews but that's alright. I promised myself to make an all out effort to step out side the box like I usually do. This time it's with reaching out and touching folks form another continent. Now I don't know where this is going to lead, but so far it's really been a breath of fresh air.

Since I've moved to this new location things have really been different. I really need to start making things for the summer. I've been dragging. Especially with my back and neck simultaneously acting up. There's nothing I can do but go with the flow. Now in the summer folks know how I like to ride my bike. But since C-5 is acting up I am thinking of getting a stationary bike. I am going to have to force my body to move pain or no pain. I am going to have to push myself more than ever now. Will start off with pool therapy to strengthen the lower half. I'm going to have to do this for the long hall. It's important now. Losing a couple of inches around my waist is helping. Today I half ran for the bus. man do i miss having a car. Okay next time I should have some pictures up here on something I am working out. Been checking out the blogs. There's some awesome work out there. I'm in no competition. Just want to get to work.

Had a friend come by and work with me for three hours explaining patterns. I will get back to work as soon as my body permits. Right now I am not feeling it. There is a 60% off at Mill End fabrics on the 31st. I've got to get some heads to cut. If I can find three guys in this building who need their hair cut that would get me over the hump, and then two ladies. So I am going to have to network. Did it before will do again. So glad my work speaks for itself. Once I get my hands in their hair they will be hooked. If I get them then look out Mills End cause here comes my fabric!

pants

I just made a UFO. My misfortune to make the pants too small. At least in the waist, don't ask me how I did that. I used a quick sew pattern that said: extra large, and then I added an additional two inches to the waist because I wanted to make the blue jean stitch. I am not even going to bother taking a picture of this.............it's one of those I will lose weight pants. So I don't know how long it will be before I can put elastic in them and wear them. In the mean time it's off to something else just keep plugging away and not to get discouraged.

Wed.

Today I decided that I wasn't going to watch Regis and Kelly. Why should I watch them make money? I decided I was not going to watch the "view" to watch Barbara babble over stuff. There are days I can't take her, love her but she is nerve racking. Anyway just the same tired stuff and I thought to myself: " This is two hours you can be doing something with a UFO. So I started on something that is summery kinda. It doesn't matter.

I am also really going to invest in some pattern software. I tried to go over the sunburst pattern, and I tell you and a builder must have designed those patterns. I've tried twice to connect the dots. Thought I had it, maybe I will try again. So I put that down and worked on these summer slacks. It was piecing. That took me two hours. I am going to try making my own pattern. Maybe I could work with the tracing paper and write down my measurements. One of my neighbors is coming over to use my machine on Friday for a blind hem. She claims hers doesn't have a blind stitch, and maybe I can get her to take some measurements, and then I will trace them on paper. In the mean time I will just have to sew with no patterns. They are really nerve wracking. Going to still take pictures of my mistakes and wear everyone of them.

shower curtains

The first picture I put grommets on the curtain. I sent the photo to one of my opinionated sewing friends. She said the curtain looked fab, but it would look better with button holes.

So I cut off the top part of the curtain and added the 3 inches or more in the second photo and made button wholes. I have to admit it looks much better. So from this point on I will make buttons holes if I am going to make a shower curtain. I love the fabric, however it bleeds on the sewing machine, so I know what this will do in water, there will be dye everywhere. I should have washed the fabric first but didn't think to do it, because I love the richness of the fabric and how crisp it felt. Now all I have to do is get some towels to set this color scheme off.

sewing divas

Well I've just spent the last hour or so looking the sewing divas blog. When I see some of the things these women are doing I just want to throw up my hands. It is nice and does make you want to do something. So this is just an incentive to want to create something for myself. I have a plan that I dare not mention at this time, but if this comes into light then I will be well on my way.

Went to the Bernina blog to catch up on what going on there. Lets face it I am just a sewing machine junky. Bernina though really is my first love machine. When I get this Janome 7700 I want to see how it feels or works out should I say. Bernina people are snooty it seems.........but they are so loyal to their machines. As practically all the ladies who sew....you just get a certain machine and it talks to you. Tomorrow I'm going on a dream workshop. I would like dream up some more fabric.......so that I have something for the summer.

Today

I know this is a new year so I've decided among other things, to really throw myself into being creative. I was looking over the sunburst pattern booklet that I paid 198.00 for. The lady designed her book after the lutterlogh system. That's the picture I meant to upload on the left not of myself. You are suppose to trace these lines according to your measurements. I'm going to fiddle around with it again tomorrow. So tired of sewing and getting by. I am going to really push myself this time. Tomorrow I am also going to go to Millend fabrics in my new neighborhood. There's a 60% sale of fabric.

sunday

Well here it is 2nd day of the new year. I decided this morning that I would try and sew something. I really am doing a half ass job which is unlike me, but this doesn't look too bad. For some reason I just wanted to piddle around doing something. So far in my new place.......i've been trying to get used to all of the room, and then having a sewing room. Now you think I would be tickled pink. However I looked at a blog yesterday and noticed how organized the sewing room was and realized I've got a lot of work to do. Maybe this will inspire me to do more things.

I've got to get my mojo back. On the 30th of December I decided to go to a sewing shop. I asked the gentleman if he was going to be doing hiring for a part time job. He told me to come back in the spring. This is a Bernina and Elna shop. What a combination. Of course I wanted to let the guy know that I am somewhat sewing savvy. Let him know that I am familiar with machines. Now Bernina was the first company I wanted to work with, because I have a 160 which is older than juju dust. I talked to the guy for at least 10 minutes. I told him that I would like to be loyal to one sewing company. Wouldn't it be a hoot if this guy hired me in spring?

Don't forget this is the first place I wanted to work for. I told the guy that I had a Janome 7700 on lay-a-way and that it would be out in spring. He showed me an elna same type as the Janome and had the dial as the 7700. Come to find out Janome brought Elna. So now both machines are made by the same company. You learn something everyday. I am going to get back in touch with this guy toward the end of March. I am determined to work with what I love doing. Shooting the breeze about sewing machines and using them. I explained to him that Bernina is the kind of sewing machine you buy alla carte cause they have 70 feet. The only company that has that many feet. I still like Janome. More bang for your buck, followed by brother. I certainly like the elegante2.............and wish I could spring the deal that was proposed to me the other day. 3999.00 trade in for my brother ult. what a deal. That's half off of the original price.

Mentally salivating. I sincerely hope my friend in Toronto does not procrastinate and get the Janome I told her about when i was there last summer. She said things came up and they do, but she could have almost be through paying for it. I am really trying going to go back up there. So I will start saving for some fabric. ciao for now

update

This is my new sewing room. I've been here for all of two and a half weeks. I made a plain beige sweat shirt with eygptian thread decoration on the sleeves. I tried to take a photo of it, but botched it up. As you know I am just trying to figure out things regarding pictures on the blog sight. I kinda like this sweat shirt. But even more I am really delighted with my new residence. I have more than enough room. So from this point on, I will make this my creative place. It's nice to have room in which to put things. Now I've got to find the places in which to put them.
So it's all a matter of organization. Which will be coming to a theatre near you. I even like the location of my new place. Although it seems like miles to get from point A to B..............checked out the places for fabric. Only Mill End Fabric. I don't know the street yet, but I will pay attention to the stop on my next bus ride. JoAnne fabric is around here somewhere, but I won't be going there any time soon. I hate that place. By the way I am in Burnsville, Mn which is a subburb of Minneapolis. Never thought I would be moving this far out south. But everything is right here at my finger tips so to speak.

In the mean time it looks like I will be getting the Janome sometime in June. But this move took out November and December payments. That's alright as long as I have the other two machines to fall back on. After I get the 7700 I have one more plan. I won't even mention it right now. Will keep that to myself until it comes true then I'll tell you. Still have not spent any money on fabric yet. I will be adding that along the way. I think I will do my shopping on line. Will follow the ladies from various sights getting their imput. I also have to find some type of sewing groups out this way. More networking. ciao for now

sewing quilt expo 2010

Well I was an ambassador really fancy word for volunteer for three days at the show. I was a bit disappointed. One: there weren't as many vendors as there was last year. I assisted two teachers during the three days.

I thought there would be perks in volunteering, like getting a bag of thread or something that we could use. I was there from 8:15 to 5:30 the first day, 8:15 to 2:30 the second day, and 8:15 to 2:30 working the front desk and then stayed until the drawing give away at 5:45. All the women stay until that time because lets face it, everyone wants to win a sewing machine that they don't need but just want, it's really for the sewing machine junkies.

The second day I worked I received an ink pen and some sticky pads, and very thin sticky pads I might add. The people I worked with always volounteer every year, so basically I was the only dip stick in the bunch who didn't know what to expect. Now the deal is being able to sit in on the classes. Well, assisting the class the ladies have paid, but you are a getting the class free by volunteering. So that's suppose to be a plus right? Well the teachers are slick. They make sure that you really are not going to see too much, but that you are going to assist them, even if it means getting a glass of water or going downstairs to the main floor to get a jacket off their rack at there booth. The other thing is that they are there to sell their books and patterns; the info that is recieved in the class is just a hint of what's in their book or video.

So next year I think I will only do one day.........but it would be better if I just did hands on classes because I would actually learn more..........really bump that idea because I would be better off purchasing the cd and learning from the cd. At least I can go back and forth seeing the demos. Other than that this was really a dull three days, but I am glad that I kept to my word and worked all three days. Right now I am in the midst of moving so you won't hear from me until I get my room set up. I expect things are going to go just right.

long time

well bless me for I've not sewn in since July. I believe that was the last picture post. I still have my sewing machine on lay-a-way and really wish I were closer to paying it off. Doesn't look like I will get it out until next year some time. I was misquoted on the price or maybe I misunderstood, more than likely it was the latter.

I thought I was paying for the 6600 price toward the 7700 and now it looks I am going to pay an extra 1200 dollars more. I really don't feel like upgrading now since it's taking so long. First off there are some complaints on the 7700 and probably by the time I get mine all of the kinks will be ironed out. It seems like the ladies are really torn between the 6600 since it was and is still the most reliable. However many times when new machines come out there are always kinks in them. So I will just wait. Right now I've got a money kink.

Haven't been able to buy material. The only good thing is being an ambassador for the sewing expo November 11-12-13 so at least I get to see a few things. Of course buying a few things is something I would love to do, but don't know whether or not that will be likely. I will be there all day though. In addition to that.............I am moving to a bigger apartment. Looks like I will have to go south to do so. This is really a crunch. I am praying for some miracles...........which will be here any day now...............anything is possible.

bummer

The last few days have just been really bummed. I had this all planned on how I was going to move and now I am finding it's more trouble than it's worth. Not to mention I don't have the support group I need on this side and support from the other side. It's nice on the east because of the Bahai's but after that what is left. I really haven't given Minneapolis a chance. Even though I said two years was chance enough.

I think it is more or less the building that is getting to me and I don't like that feeling. So maybe if I get out of here things will be a little better for the time being though.....there are no really true friends here at all. The people that I know are not on my wave length and that's just horrible. So I now have to rethink things. I couldn't blame my friend in Toronto for thinking that I am flakey, but after all I am trying to do this by myself self and must add the money is the biggest factor in this equation. My hands are tied right now. I don't even have one months rent saved for a new place, not to mention the train fair and everything that came along with this trip. Can't give up though just have to have another outlook.

lazy

Must be going through a slump. Tomorrow I am going to attempt to sew something. I really need to work with the hotpatterns marekesh pants. That's what stopped me dead in my tracks. I cut them out and they have just been laying around. I will look at that pattern again. Better yet I am going on Youtube to see if she shows how to put those pants together. There must be something that i am missing somewhere along the way.
Early on I looked at some videos for bags regarding studs. That's another thing I'm almost afraid to do...........must get rid of this fear of messing up and just jump in, after all I've been wearing my mistakes all this time and no has noticed. So why should anything be any different now?

finished night gown

okay this looks like something I could get away with wearing outside. This does not look like something to sleep in. On the lower part of this garment I put in a flat felled seem or blue jean seam.
I finally got how it works. For the longest I couldn't figure it out visually by the videos and suddenly it clicked the other day. So I decided to test it out on something you can't really see. How dizzy can one get. Well if anything I will lounge around in this on a do nothing day. Even if it does say: naught & nice sugar and spice" I am really trying to learn. This is on a knit kinda fabric. I made another sleep item like this and it's lasted for more than two years and wears and washes really well. So I am going to wash this now and see how it holds under coming through a dryer. I like the design or maybe it's just the color that appeals to me.

today

I've got to put the finishing touches on this night gown. It was too short, so I have to lengthen it now. I looked over the hotpattern and still don't know quite what to do yet. If I don't figure it out before the weekend is over I will just make up something myself.

blah tuesday

okay I know I should be beat with 30,000 wet noodles. I've been really procrastinating. I got the hotpatterns pants pattern last week. Cut out the material, and have looked at the pattern pieces, but can't figure out the directions on the waist band. I know it's something really simple, but I will get back to it some how. In the mean time what do I do? Decide to go to the second hand store and get some fabric for a 1.99 and make a night gown. Couldn't resist, because the fabric said: naughty and nice, sugar and spice" just what and old broad needs to be wearing to bed. Who the hell is going to see it? I tell you I don't know where my head is at times.
For the past few days I've felt like doing nothing. Last night I started on the night gown....it's really not a gown more a less decorated moo moo. I will be through with it tonight and take a picture of it. I really have to finish those pants, and if I can't follow the instructions then I will have to fudge on it myself. I hate doing that, but one of the problems is the patterns don't go step by step. It does say: 1, 2, but the instruction is printed out, and somehow I am not picturing it in my head. I will reread the instruction again. This is so frustrating.

lucky

My friend in Chicago talked me into this blog...........and of all things she chooses to pick a picture of me that is totally bloated. Who could look any worse, but at my age I am not really caring too much. She chose the picture taken of me in front of a store front of food. Delicious food.........and I walked two doors down and ate a great big bowl of soup and veggie rolls. I am so glad there was no one there to take a picture of me eating my food. I think that would have been more embarrassing.

I now look back at some of the things I've posted. I've been going to the Janome forum and reading up more on my new sewing machine. I can't wait until I get that puppy home. It's going to be so much fun. Now I've got to figure out what I am going to buckle down and sew. Haven't heard from Britt in Sweden. I am going to let her be my inspiration on sewing bags. That's if I decide I want to go that route. But I have to admit she has given me a few ideas. My new Janome will sew 1,000 stitiches per minute. Do I need that..............no.............but i must have it just in case. Just hope I don't end up burning out a motor.

Just got my Hot Patterns blouse design and the Marakesh drawstring pants. I am going to attempt to make the pants first. Cut out the material today. It's cheap and used. If I mess this up so what I will just look for the next project. The lady at hotpatterns.com explains so easily and of course with her english accent makes you sound like you are going to look so chique if you purchase her pattern. Although I will admit her pants made her look really good, although I don't have any muslin like the women instructed me to get. Next time I will make sure that I get a few yards of it. Well that's all for now........the next post will be a possibly a picture of the pants I make. There are only a couple of pieces. Oh...........this is my first time ordering her patterns and I think I will order more, because her patterns are not made of the cheap tissue paper. I'm not cutting into these either..............I am tracing...........that way I get everything back in the envelope without it looking stuffed. I'm learning!

toronto pants

They fit fine, but I still am having problems with a good fit for the crotch. Although no one knows that but me. I always try to make room for my girth. In this case I noticed while wearing them that the front part of the crotch was a little too high.

So more than likely I will have to adjust them. Or just wait for the first washing. Which is what I was suppose to do in the beginning. I am also going to get some muslin and this time do all the adjusting on it. Other than that these pants give stretch when sitting, but they do wrinkle a lot............so I am not liking that at all..........maybe its the way I cut them. Live and learn. Sooner or later I will get it into my head to do the muslin thing. It's just so time consuming.............but it is worth it. It beats having experiences like this. Even though they look wonderful to you..........i'm the one who knows how they fit. The only thing I am really pleased with is the stitch quality on the fabric, which came out really good. I'm getting better in that department. In other words: you can't see my mistakes at all. Only I know which is a good thing but at the same time very nerve wracking.

invigorated

I am still coming down off my trip to Toronto. This has given me a new perspective on what I would like to do and where i'd like to go. I really enjoyed seeing the bustling of the city. It's really huge. I like the fact that you could get lost in it, there are so many people and so many things to see. Robin (host and friend) didn't get a chance to show a great deal, but for me she showed just enough of her town. I liked the foods can't you tell by the picture. Well I won't put all the blame on my visit, but thank God for casscara segrada. I really ate and some things i'd not tasted before. Next time I will come when the festivals are just beginning.

My host was really gracious and so was the rest of the family for putting up with me. Three weeks is a long stay. Not to mention the fact that I did most of the spending within the first week of being there. It was a tit for tat situation. I had to pull out my skills of doing hair.....so I worked some but didn't mind at all considering the company. I so wanted to get more fabric. Just goes to show you things change. Prices do go up. I could have gotten a lot more material say 10yrs ago. Stupid of me to think things would still be the same. Never the less it was just an enjoyable time being around like minded people, and seeing the sites.

Toronto photos

My new friend is really having a good time, but she decided to give this pose. This is sunday going to church. The other picture is me in my element.......basking in the smell of fabric.

today

today i was in the house because of the rain, so we didn't go any where. i must say that this is somewhat of a rest for me. My people have been so helpful and most gracious in my stay here. I am so glad that i decided to come but next time i will stay a shorter time as not to impose on them. Over all though it's still a good trip.

photo comments

as you can see from the pictures i'm not far from food. The sites and sounds of the place are really just too much. I had no idea this place was so large. There are shops on every block every other door. I really wished I'd stopped at the Italian store earlier because I really got a deal on some fabric. I am going to make a shirt and skirt from this stuff. Probably the closet I'll get to Italy is just to buy the fabric and anything Italian.

My friend was with me every step of the way. What are friends for....to just watch you spend money you don't have. I knew that I had to have that fabric and that I wasn't going to get the opportunity to buy it again at least not in the states. So seize the moment. That's exactly what I did............am I ever glad that I don't have a charge card. I might have been in serious trouble. So at least i'll have a memory. Now just two weeks to go. I will go home with just the cab fare to get home. I really am going to have to do something about this body..........cause I don't recognize this person. ciao for now

photos of my trip

another bag

This is the bag that I made for my friend in Seattle. I saw some bags that this lady in Sweden makes and my goodness my mouth watered. This women makes quilted purses and they look fantastic. I know I said I am not into quilting but to make bags that come out that beautiful would be worth it. Every bag this lady makes is really a piece of art. I am just going to have to learn to do what I do best. And this looks well but to me it's not polished. That's the way I want my work to look polished.

pants

I was so lazy I didn't feel like wearing the pants that I packed for my trip, because that meant I would have to wash them. So I made some last night and this is what they look like. I am still getting the hang of trying to take these pictures. I don't know how people take pictures of themselves all the time. In my day these were called peddle pushers. This is thrift fabric.

tickets

well today I got my tickets for Toronto. So I can't wait for June 7th can't get here fast enough. I am going to spend as much time as I can checking things out especially the fabric places. It will be nice. I am not expecting my friend to take me everywhere so I will try and make some connections on my own, and see how many people I can meet. This should be fun. I'm expecting a miracle in funds before the 7th. We just skyped each other so it was nice finally seeing her face. She seems to be a very nice woman. I think I picked wisely this time. So when I get back which will be the 28th of June I should have a lot to talk about. This will be my first time in Toronto. Been to Van couver and to Montreal. So I am really looking forward to this, just to get away and regroup.

mudlcothe

this is first bag I made and that's why Daeisha wanted it, and I thought I posted this before. I just like the pattern.

latest work

This is Daeisha who really begged me for this bag. My honorary daughter. I was made it for my friend Carmelle who gave me the mud clothe. This turned out very well. I think that I would like to work with this fabric to make a jacket. I also made another bag for a new friend that I found in Canada. Kinda like a good faith thing.

I know it's been a while, but in addition to trying to figure out what fabric I wanted to work with, i"ve been obsessed you might say with the new 7700 Janome. The message boards have been full with ladies talking about the new machine ect. I really would like to stay in my own price range. At this point though it really doesn't make sense to get the 6600 because the machine is at least 4 1/2 yrs old. There are so many good comments on this machine. The new one hasn't really proven it's self. So far there is just a lot of talk about the machine. Either way I would like to be on the cutting edge in buying it then that way I am current.

Last night I went online and look at the elissimo by babylock.......and it's made by brother I don't want to bite off more than I can chew. Right now the I am still paying on the new Janome. I need it for speed. At 1,000 stitches per minute this would really work for me in making the bags. So I am more or less forced to get it. Getting an industrial sewing machine would be too noisy in an apartment, as the motor is noisy. So I might as well get something that is closet to it. Hence the Janome. ................decisions decisions!

new fabric

I brought this Asian print material and I made a blouse out of it. I am so disappointed with myself because I should have gotten more of that fabric. Could have made a skirt. You can't see it but I brought some beige stretchy type of fabric to make a pair of pants out of, and then some blue jean stretch material. Forgot to get the needles, it's always something. Then I brought some pinstriped stretch fabric and that was for the low price of 45.00 and that was steal for me that day. So I was pretty happy. Just have to remember to get the needles.

on a roll

During the weekend I spent with two other ladies who are sewing orientated. It was really nice. Started out with bacardi rum and papaya/mango juice and some very tired stiches followed by quiche. We were doing stitches that were in a course that one of the ladies is taking. By the way this is a dress making course. I had a hard time with the herring bone stitch. For some reason I wasn't getting it. The rest of the stitches I already know and have used before. Over all it was a nice weekend.

We are going to get together as often as I can, and in the meantime I am still saving for my Janome. The new 7700 has come out and I think I am going to get that one instead. This is going to be the last sewing machine I buy. This one has everything on it. It looks like a Bernina and Pfaff and has an arm. I thought it best to just jump right in and get this one. I know it's going to be a bit pricey...........but in the long run I am going to have it the rest of my life. Everyone on this janome site loves their 6600 and said they wouldn't part with it. The new machine will not be out until May but since I already joined a yahoo group, photos have been coming in from London and Canada. For some reason Janome thought they would premier in Europe first and then we are last. From what I understand the machine will possibly run 2,000 but for all the features this will be worth it, and there is better lighting.

Janome is in strong competition I believe with Brother because Brother gives you more features and more bang for your buck. Well Janome is doing the same. I really used to be a Bernina snob, but Janome is what I wish to work with for the time being. I really would like to work in another country doing nothing but selling sewing machines and working with them. Right now I am trying to work on just putting things together. My way of course. Some of these patterns make no sense. So I always detour. I am also still working on Canadian contacts regarding sewing machines and the like. Maybe even a fabric store. That wouldn't be bad idea. Cause you get a discount for working there. Hopefully they would sell sewing machines right there on the premise like Hancock fabrics does, if so then I am killing two birds with one stone. We'll just see how things turn out.

just some thoughts

What a no sun shine day. I think I told you about two other ladies I met from the sewing guild. Well we hit it off very well. One of them is taking a dress making course, and since it is on line decided that it would be good to have live people to correspond with. So she is sharing the lesson with me and another lady.

This online course has us doing stitches. They name the stitches but don't show what they look like. it's really done in black and white. So last night my buddy calls me to suggest that we go to the library or somewhere and get photos of the stitches and then we can do them together. Even though buddy no.1 has paid for the course buddy no.2 and myself will reap benefits from the course as well. No.1 thought it best to have someone to converse with, and I concur. On line course are tricky. Videos are more better for me. Cause I can freeze and then try to duplicate what I see. Just have the written with no pictures is hard on me.
So far on the first three paragraphs have all been technical jargin. So I am really going to have to work at this. It will be interesting to say the least. Today though I really don't feel like doing one blessed thing. Maybe I will shoot for tomorrow.

working on now

I like this design for some reason. This is fleece. It's very thick fleece, and of course what do I do with fleece? Make a jacket of course. I decided to put elastic in the sleeve to give this some type of shape. As it is most of my jackets seem a bit boxy.
This was done without a pattern.
Hopefully next month I will get some tracing paper. I've decided not to cut out the patterns any more. Then I can trace the design and try to doctor it up. Also I'm going to get some muslin because I think this will go a long way as well. Just think pretty soon spring will be here, and I will really have to start sewing to make things for summer.

I've put things in motion regarding networkng and hopefully I will meet some more new people. At least I can get my creative juices going. made a purse for my girlfriend in seattle. forgot to put this picture on as well. Hope she likes it! This is really a drab day, and I don't feel like finishing this jacket off today. Maybe I will work on it tomorrow.

lastest jacket

I was trying to find a way to turn the second picture around so you could see the design stitch. It's not too bad a jacket but the material is rather drab. I will probably have to dress this up with making a skirt or a pair of pants.