House Full of Monkeys

taking a break

2012-01-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and will be having surgery this Friday, the 13th, to be followed by radiation and chemotherapy.

I'm putting out a general call for support on Friday: wear pink, and wish me well.

I may post here from time to time, as I feel inspired, but, most likely, there won't be much going on here.

You can read about and follow my journey through breast cancer on my other blog, here.

appreciated but askew

2012-01-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

I love it when I get pics back of the recipient wearing something I knitted!

no idea why it won't come up the right way. on my hard drive, it's turned upright. but when I load it here, it flips. sorry, my boy. but you're cute as can be in that hat!

Dead Fish Hat 2

2012-01-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

This is the second Dead Fish Hat I've finished. Started this on my way back from Seattle after Halloween, and it's taken me this long to get it finished off. Mailed it today to the recipient, so he should be seeing a cute little fat package in his mail soon.

He insisted there were not any black stripes on a Nemo sort of fish, so I went with his request.

Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Mango and White, smidge of black on the eyes

Finished Objects 2011

2011-12-31T19:47:00.001-07:00

Autumn Drinks Doily (c)
2 pr PJ bottoms (s) (gifted)

Avocado Warm-up Scarf (k)
Drumstick Earrings (k)
9 prs fleece socks (s) (gifted)
Pence Jug for H (k)
Dead Fish Hat for N (k)

Spider Socks (k)

3 mini marble mazes

5 more marble mazes

3 Denim Humbug Bags (s)

Painted Halloween Trio

Barnyard Bird in Fabric (s)

Eggy (c)

Spring Chicken Tea Towel (a)

Mini Sock Monkey (s)

Silver Humbug Bag (s)

Beaded Spider

Pink Sock Monkey (s)

Simple Chicken (x)

Pumpkin Tea Towel (a)

Fall Wreath Tea Towel (a)

Square Chick (c)

Momma Chicken (c)

Halloween Trio Tea Towel (a)

Frankie Tea Towel (a)

Rooster Tea Towel (a)

Humbug Bag (s)

4 Marble Mazes (s)

Chicken Scratch Hearts towel

Time Striped Pence Jug (k)

Time Socks (k)

Brown Butterfly top (s)

Red Wool Tote (c)

Clucky (s)

4 Clucky baby chicks (s)

Blue Hen Chicken bluework

Rhode Island Red Chicken redwork

Socks for Twin2 (k)

Furrowed Iguana Socks (k)

3 sets paper Tangrams (gifted)

Second Pair test socks (k)

Papercut Rooster

Gingerbread Doll Garland (s)

Patriotic Dishtowel (a)

Rebuilt Scarecrow

Fab Fibers Tote (gifted)

Apple Brown Betty baby outfit (s)

kid-size Fleece Socks (s)

Patriotic Egg Critter

Green print polo shirt (s)

Pink Lemonade drinks doily (c)

Knit Maple Bar

3 more donuts (k)

Purple knit top (s)

Paper Box Chicken

Red & Brown knit top (s)

Patriotic Rooster Stitchery

Framed Chicken Print

Brown & Pink sash (s)

Nubby Weave Pants (s)

Rule Britannia Dress (s)

prototype knit tater tot

Wee Tree (k)

Cheeseburger & Tots (c)

4 mini Chick Chic bookmarks

6 Stuffed Eggies (s)

Framed Pumpkin Band Sampler (x)

Royally Sweet cowl (k)

Apricot Dream apron (s)

2 Sets Chick Chic bookmarks

Mini Bucket-bag treat box

Chicken patchwork table runner

Car Socks (k)

Fruit Salad Apron (s)

Honey Honey cowl (k)

Green Apples dishcloth (k)

Framed Chicken Patchwork

pastel Easter Egg (c) (gifted)

fall colors dishcloth (k) (gifted)

Ennui Blanc basic top (s)

Seed Packets of Frustration Shirt (s)

Tied With Ribbon cardi (c)

Hemstitched Baby Blanket (c)

Spring (Green) Chicken (k)
Deep Red faux-suede maxi-skirt & matching jacket (s)

Green Eggs sans Ham (c)

Harvest Gold Wide-Wale Corduroy Jumper (s)

Dalek in Buff (c) (for Twin1)

The TV! The TV! (k)

Beaded Chicken safety-pin pin

Charcoal Legwarmers (k)

Mermaid Welig gloves (k)

Baby Boy Blues Socks (k)

Teal & Chocolate Giraffe (s) (gifted)

Log Cabin Chicken Pin Cushion (s)

Loads of Love x-stitch mini-pillow

Pink Owlie Sleep Sack & Hat (k)

PJ Top for Twin2 (s)

Paisley Print knit top (s)

2 banana slices (c)

2 peanut butter triangles (c)

4 toast triangles (c)

Bantam Chicken (k)

Zombie pants (k)

2 tomato slices (c)

2 lettuce leaves (c)

3 strips of bacon (c)

Pear (c)

5 fish no longer blind (k)
Choc Sandwich Cookie (c)

Zombie Girl (c) in a dress (k)

Chauncey Yorick (k)

Tiger-in-your-tank Tail (k)
Alas Poor Yorick (c)
Teal Coral (c)
2 pr fleece armwarmers (s)
2 pr fleece socks for Twins (s)
1 pr flannel pj pants for brother (s)
Wooly Xmas Tree (c)
Weeeds! (k)
2 beaded bookmarks (1 gifted)
3 reusable shopping totes (s) (2 gifted)
Wee Whale in Purple (c)

evolution of a Christmas tree

2011-12-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

Autumn Drinks Doily

2011-12-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

Finally finished off this project, which I owed my lil sis.

Just another drinks doily - the sort of thing you put over a pitcher of water (or other beverage) when you're out in the open, and you have reason to fear flying insects will invade your beverage.

Made it up as I went along, and, sadly, didn't write it down. Size 9 steel crochet hook and size 10 thread, worked on a circle of plain muslin.

All My Chickens, Week 46 & 47, 3 French Hens

2011-12-19T13:03:00.001-07:00

Because, what else would you do the week before Christmas?

I was hoping for something along the lines of little felt ornaments, but came up empty on that score.
So, instead, I give you this cute knitted trio, found here.
Or, if you prefer, a cross stitched version, found here.

All My Chickens, Week 45, Origami Hen

2011-12-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Great instructions for an origami hen with an egg that comes out.

I know, it's a little silly. But maybe I can make some for the tree?

Sort of still distracted, and working a lot, and I just can't seem to come up with anything better at the moment. I need simple.

Besotted

2011-11-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

That's what I am...

with this gorgeous scarf I'm knitting!

Isn't it such a lovely shade of green? I am totally loving the cables, the color, the length...

and now I want to make another, in a lovely pumpkin shade. Or, actually, just about anything in a lovely russet pumpkin sort of shade. It's like I'm suddenly obsessed with orange.

Suggestions?

yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Avocado
pattern: Lion Brand Grey Cabled Scarf

Distracted

2011-11-29T16:57:00.000-07:00

Can I tell you something?

I'm a little distracted these days.

Some exciting things are happening at work. Which means that I'm working some extra hours, and I've less time for stuff like blogging.

Also, I'm a bit twitterpated. Finding it difficult to concentrate and collect my thoughts.

We'll just have to see how it goes.

All My Chickens, Week 44, Needlepoint Hen

2011-11-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

Bought this in Chicago, too many years ago to have not started it yet. Need to remedy that.

Feast

2011-11-26T15:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a carved turkey look like this?
I am amused no end.

Drumstick Earrings

2011-11-23T12:06:00.000-07:00

How cute are these?

Well, I like them, anyway.

I worked the pattern in the round entirely, natch. Stuffed with just the yarn ends, nothing more. I worked the bony bumps at the end by simply taking the cast-on tail and going down through the middle, out at round two, bring it over on the outside, back through the middle - repeat until it looks right, coming out on different points each time.

All My Chickens, Week 43, Drumstick Charms

2011-11-21T14:48:00.001-07:00

Back to another freebie for this week: Chicken Wing Charms (uh, it's not a wing, but, that's what the designer called it. sorry)

I think they're cute. I'm making two, for earrings.

It's what all the best-dressed hosts will be wearing on Thanksgiving.

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Best Socks So Far

2011-11-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I had not yet introduced you to my most recently completed socks:

These are my spider socks! (I apologize for how dark this photo is - I'll try to get a better shot later.)
I managed to get them done in only 12 days, and was able to wear them on my way out to Seattle, just in time for Halloween.

These are the absolute best-fitting socks I've made yet. They even fit comfortably inside my dress shoes, so I've worn them to work. More than once.

In fact, I won't be putting these socks away with my Halloween wearables, because they are just too comfortable to wear only one month out of the year.

The bamboo/wool blend makes them less cozy than wool by itself, which is a major plus for me. I'll be making more socks using this blend, though perhaps not the same brand. I never ran across so many breaks, slubs, and imperfections in just one skein of yarn.

Yarn: JoAnn Sensations Bamboo & Ewe in Charcoal Grey

he's neckid!

2011-11-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

When I ordered this from Chiasso I didn't notice they had any other views of the product, so I guess I didn't realize just exactly what I was in for.
I thought I was getting a S&P set with the top half of a cute little dude (another helpful little man!) sitting atop the bottom half:

Which is pretty cute, right?

He arrived today, and that's when I discovered the true nature of this particular table-helper:

gasp!

If you want pepper, salts gotta get neckid!

If you are now deeply concerned, as I was, as to the location of the plug-hole, rest assured, this company knew how far to take the gag:

Although, it must be said, the thought of shaking pepper out of the crotch of his pants gives me pause. That can't be entirely comfortable for him.

the answer is YES, always always always YES

2011-11-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

I could've been the girl that moonwalked, or the girl that thought moonwalking was cool, or possibly the girl that tripped over her own shoes while trying to moonwalk.

I was none of those things.

While at Miramar for the Friday Night Activity at the conference, nearing the time we were supposed to board the buses to return to the hotel, some fellow attendees and I emerged from the back room and found our way to the main area, from which we'd been hearing a preponderance of 80's music throughout the evening.

There was a dance floor.

And on that dance floor, there were a bunch of computer programmers and accountants (How do you tell if your accountant is an extrovert? He looks at your shoes while he's talking to you, instead of his own.), paying no attention whatsoever to the tour directors trying to get everyone to board the buses, but instead, getting their groove on while the camera crew went wild capturing this unheard of activity. (Give a bunch of introverts a little alcohol, and watch the fun begin! (except for those of us that don't drink, like me))

They were all having so much fun, they beckoned everyone to come and join them. Including me.

But did I hop onto that dance floor? Oh, no. I did not.

Unlike my friend there (Joy? I'm no good with names. But she was really nice.), I just couldn't seem to make myself get out there.

Instead, I hung at the edges, grinning at the spectacle, and trying to make myself forget my insecurities.

Then, a Michael Jackson song comes on. Billie Jean. And they are all dancing in a big circle, choosing one after another victim to come to the center and show off their best MJ moves. I'm watching, waiting for someone to at least attempt to moonwalk, but nobody does.

"This is my moment," I say to myself. (I did Drill Team in HS, and we did indeed learn to moonwalk, and used it in a routine. Not something that often comes up, but when it does, I usually show off my moves.)

But, no. My natural shyness is winning the battle. Anxiety takes over. I wonder if my shoes wouldn't glide properly on the wood floor. I consider taking my shoes off, but realize that my stockings may be a bit damp, owing to the rain that night. I hesitate.

And then the song is over. And I'm in agony, because I can't believe I didn't just jump on in with the rest of them.

How lame can I be?

Disappointed yet?

It gets worse.

I promise myself that if another MJ song comes on, I will not hesitate, I will just glide onto the dance floor and do my thing. None of these people know me. I will probably never see any of them again after the conference, so what am I worried about?

(When you travel, you can be anything you want to be. You can try new things, and it won't matter if you don't like them, because nobody you know saw it happen, so nobody has to know but you. For all these people know, this is how you always are. You can either be boring and forgotten, or fun and memorable. Either way, no harm done. Besides, you might find out you like whatever it is.)

I am telling myself all of this while standing, still grinning stupidly, at the edge of the dance floor.

One of the programmers (or tech support guys, not sure), we'll call him Deconflicted (funny story from the bus ride to Miramar), he sidles up to me, (and yes, he's cute. adorable even. and funny.) almost leans into me (but from the side, shoulder to shoulder), and says, "I haven't seen you out on the dance floor yet."

Clearly, this is my chance. This is where I can strip off my insecurities along with my jacket, and just get out there and have fun. My inner "fun girl" is jumping up and down, cheering - yes! you just got a second chance! nobody gets a second chance! go for it!

Instead, I hear myself saying, "Yeah. I'm already so far out of my comfort zone, just trying to meet new people and all, I'm just not sure I can do it."

And what does Deconflicted do? Does he grab my hand and pull me out there anyway?

Alas, no. He's just as introverted as I am, so he just nods, lets it go.

AAAAAUUUUUGH!

It is a full hour from when we set out to get on the bus before they finally pull the plug on the music (literally! they were packing up lights, speakers, etc - but until the music stopped, these people just weren't going to leave).

I stood there for an HOUR, grinning stupidly, and NOT DANCING.

I know.

Next time, I'll do better.

Next time, I'll remember the travel mantra that makes every trip I take, no matter what the destination, no matter what the company, that much more fun and memorable.

Just say YES!*

Someone wants to take you to their favorite sushi restaurant, but you're not sure if you really want to eat raw fish? Get over it. Say yes, and then let them order for you, too. Tapas? (what the heck is that?) You bet! Would you like to go see this band you've never heard of? Of course!

I promise, if you didn't like it, whatever it was, nobody is going to make you do it again. But chances are, you WILL like it.

I generally do.

If I ever, ever, for whatever reason, get to go out of town for another conference, I promise, I will not be that girl grinning stupidly at the edge of the dance floor, forgotten before the conference is even over. No, that won't be me.

Instead, I'll be that girl who moonwalked. Even if they don't play any MJ.

*to clarify, yes, it is okay to say no when it conflicts with your personal morals. I don't accept alcoholic drinks, or mind-altering substances, and I'm not your girl if you're looking to "hook up"

losing it

2011-11-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been losing things. I used to not really lose anything at all.

But already this month, I've lost an earring (largish fake square-cut diamond), a business card case (with my business cards in it - hello!), and a little key-chain tag that had my name on it.
We're not going to count the earring and necklace that fell behind the dresser. I know where they are, I just haven't gotten to them yet.

Is this a sign of things to come?

All My Chickens, Week 42, Needlepoint Rooster

2011-11-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

Another project I picked up that just needs finishing. Not that I can finish it in a week, or even a month, but I'll be focusing on this, trying to get more of it stitched.

Whatcha Doin'?

2011-11-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

In spite of all the time I was away from home last week, and all the time I then had to spend at work this week, I have gotten a few projects done.

I carved pumpkins with the Seattles:

Knitted a Dead Fish Hat for one of the Seattle nephews:

he chose the colors!

Made yet another Pence Jug, this one for a co-worker:

And managed a good bit of progress on the lemonade socks:

I don't actually know these guys, but they were awfully nice and knew just about everything there is to know about that flying machine behind them.

Sometimes, it seems like the more I have to do, the more I can get done, you know?
Does it work that way for you?

All My Chickens, Week 41, Eggs in Ham cups

2011-11-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Super busy work schedule right now, and I'm already way behind on other Chicken projects, so we're doing food this week.

Meg the Grand tried this out this week, and I was inspired to do the same. You can find the recipe here.

Enjoy!

Beautiful San Diego

2011-11-09T21:20:00.000-07:00

from the walkway, looking back at the city

the light fixtures in the ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront

Mormon Battalion Museum

2011-11-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

My first day in San Diego, I was able to go over to Old Town and see a few sights. The Mormon Battalion Museum was listed as a can't-miss item, so I went there first.

Their presentation is extremely well done. It was a slow time of day, so it was just me and the guide, but she still did her whole presentation, just like she would have with a crowd. Loads of fun.

It's raining here

2011-11-04T19:06:00.000-06:00

All day today, rain. In San Diego.

Still went out, though. Skipped lunch to run (literally) over to Seaport Village. I would never skip a class, but I figured lunch was optional. And I don't want to come back and not have seen anything outside of the hotel, you know?

I got wet. And my legs were not all that happy with me. Also, a little hungry. But I went over to Seaport, and I did a little shopping, and mostly was just happy to not be sitting in a class.

One more day.

I'm not here right now

2011-11-03T20:04:00.000-06:00

Been away for a bit.
Spent the weekend in Seattle - which was gorgeous and lovely.
Did some knitting while in transit and in some spare moments, but can't really show you right now, because, while I did take pictures, I didn't bring a computer with me, and I'm a tad reluctant to try and upload using a public computer.

Am currently in San Diego for a work thing, which is exciting if you do what I do, but otherwise, probably not so much. Have enjoyed a little of the town, and much of the nice warm weather, but again, no pictures to prove it just yet.

Currently contemplating walking out of the hotel to seek for some excitement, even if my co-workers won't come along. That's just how I feel right now. I mean, if you were in SD, and had your evenings free, would you be sitting at a computer? Or would you be out on the town, stirring up trouble? I already worked today - that's what those classes were, earlier. Now, it's time to relax.

I wonder how far it is to Balboa Park....

All My Chickens, Week 40, Toile Rooster

2011-10-31T08:28:00.001-06:00

I'm out-of-town this week, first in Seattle with family, then to San Diego for a work thing, so this had to be small and portable.

Probably won't finish in a week, but this is what I'll be working on whenever I have some downtime.

The Oreos are watching me

2011-10-28T12:04:00.000-06:00

These functional google-eyes are totally edible!
I used double stuffs, and stacked two halves together (which would make them quad-stuffed).

You can get the directions to make your own edible google eyes, stuck into just about any treat, here.

The Twins tell me that they preferred not to eat the gelatin capsule as it's kinda crunchy and doesn't taste like anything. But as it is just a gelatin capsule, you can let your kids munch on these monsters without you having to worry about them eating something they shouldn't.

I found my gelatin capsules at Good Earth, in a huge package of 100 for about $7. The eyeballs are jumbo sprinkles, which you can usually find in the baking stuff at JoAnn or Michaels.

I'm still working on a better, easier way to cut the capsule. I keep thinking that if you softened the capsule slightly in hot water, or maybe used a heated knife or scissors, you might be able to snip it right off instead of cutting up the side and all that. Haven't tried it yet, but I'll let you know if it works.

Cookies for Halloween

2011-10-26T08:38:00.001-06:00

These are Jack-O-Lantern face parts - see the eyes?

I saw this over on Eighteen 25, and just had to make some!

Instead of putting the pieces in a jar, I used a large clear gift bag. Then I punched a hole near the edge in each plate (one for each kid), and tied the plates onto the bag with the curling ribbon.

She gives you links to her favorite cookie recipe, and her Royal Icing recipe with tons of tips on how to make pretty cookies. I used my own favorite cookie recipe, and, since I fail at Royal Icing every time when I try to make it at home, I bought the Wilton Cookie Icing and tinted it using gel food coloring. (Except for black - that one I bought already colored.) If you've never tried icing your cookies this way, you really should. It's much easier than it looks!

disturbing

2011-10-25T10:20:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, as I made my way up to the Roses for pumpkin carving, I was behind this truck on the highway:

Disturbing image, no?

I think it's a deer. Without it's skin. But still whole. From further back, trying to make sense of what it might be, my first thought was giraffe. You know, because of the random colorization there on the legs.

All My Chickens, Week 39, Chick-O-Lantern

2011-10-24T10:14:00.000-06:00

And, the last of the Halloween Chicken Trio, this one's dressed up like a Jack-O-Lantern.

(these guys are not exactly the quickest things I've ever made up)

Bees in the Ivy

2011-10-22T15:59:00.002-06:00

All My Chickens, Week 38, Count Chickula

2011-10-20T19:11:00.000-06:00

Another of the trio I started back in on last week.

(I was holding off so I wouldn't have to post this with the same picture, but haven't taken any more yet, and here it is Thursday.)

This week, it's Count Chickula. Hope I get some work done on him soon, or you're going to think I'm all talk and no cluck.

Halloween Trio

2011-10-14T14:45:00.001-06:00

I made these a couple weeks ago, in preparation for a craft night. I sorta copied the idea from some my friend had, for Frankie and the Mummy, but I made up the Pumpkin.
Super easy, and pretty cheap, too. As in, less than $1 for all three. Seriously.

They are made from a 4" piece of 2x4 each, with just a few other bits and pieces: mini spools, painted silver, for Frankie (or you could use some short screws); 1" strips of cheesecloth for the Mummy; plastic spider, 18" twine, and a strip from a brown paper grocery sack for the stem on the Pumpkin.

All the paint is watered down (except the facial features), so it's super-quick to apply and dries really fast. The backs and edges are all done with a very thin black wash, and the fronts get the color.

Frankie's hair was done by painting across the top edge, with fairly thinned black paint, which was then allowed to run down the front until I thought it was far enough down (stand him up, let it run, then flip him over and leave him until it dries). I touched it up with some random brushstrokes in black paint. The face was done free-hand, with a toothpick. A paint pen would work well, too. Glue the spools (or put the screws in) on either side, near the bottom.

Dot the Mummy eyes on the face, near the top and a little to one side, using a toothpick or paint pen. Wrap the Mummy with strips of cheesecloth, and dab on some craft glue that's been watered down, just in a few places, using a paint brush.

For the Pumpkin, cut a 1" strip off the top of a brown paper sack, roll it up, glue the end down, and glue it to the top with tacky glue. When it's dry, wrap the twine from front to back, and back to the front, tie it in a knot, and tweak the ends. Dip each of the spiders legs in glue, and set him on the front. Lay it down until it's dry.

(I would do up a full tutorial, but work is demanding the bulk of my attention these days.)

If you are in the area, and you would like to make some, we are doing these as part of our Terrific Tuesday (most wards would call that Super Saturday, but ours is on Tuesday), on the 18th. Or just let me know, and we'll arrange something.

All My Chickens, Week 37, Long John Chicken

2011-10-11T11:11:00.000-06:00

For the next three weeks, I want to focus on a project I got out of a Halloween Tricks & Treats magazine from 1996: three adorable chickens, all dressed up to go Trick-Or-Treating!
The muslin bodies are basically the same, and you just add the appropriate outfit and accessories to make it unique.
Sorry that this isn't something I can link to, but when you see the finished chickens, I think you'll understand why I had to prioritize them and get them done.
You can see from the photo that I've done a little of the work already. And I think I've managed to gather all the necessary materials. I've just got to get this finished!

For lots more Halloween crafts, be sure to check out the BHG Halloween pages. This one either isn't there, or it's buried deep, but there's plenty of fun, quick, and easy ideas for Halloween decorating and more!

Miracle Day

2011-10-10T15:27:00.000-06:00

TORCHWOOD is back! (Or, at least, Netflix has finally made the new season available on instant, and I finally noticed.)

John Barrowman, Eve Myles, Kai Owen, and Bill Pullman!
(Not to mention, a host of other special guests, many of them very familiar to American TV viewers, and a bunch of very talented new-to-me people.)

When I discovered there were new episodes, I fully intended to stretch it out over a week or more, watch one episode at a time.
I just couldn't!
I watched the whole season in one sitting.
And got pretty much nothing else done while I did that.
I'd be ashamed, but,

TORCHWOOD!!!

*disclaimer: I am not in any way affiliated with the BBC or Torchwood.

**please note that, while this is a spin-off of Doctor Who, it is not a show for young viewers or the homo-phobic among you. Captain Jack is who he is, and I think the BBC does a very good job of presenting his character, without being over-the-top or crude. Basically, if seeing two guys, um, together...bothers you, then this may not be the show for you. Even if it is done tastefully. Which it is.

99 skeins of Fun Fur

2011-10-05T14:06:00.000-06:00

Clearance at JoAnn

only fifty cents per skein

it seemed wrong not to

Henry's Progress

2011-10-04T16:35:00.000-06:00

This is how far I've got with Henry:

The beak is all tweaked funny. It's because I decided that instead of lightly stuffing the beak, which didn't make sense in my head, I'd lightly stuff the wattles. Apparently, that wasn't the best idea. Whatever.

Here's the thing: panels seem like a great idea, but what if they print off-grain? or what about having something with a different texture? I think that's my main complaint with panels: lack of texture.

On the plus side, you could, theoretically, trace or copy the pieces before you sew them up, and then you also have a pattern.
Have I ever really done that? Not so much. But I could. Which is what matters, right?

All My Chickens, Week 36, Henrietta!

2011-10-03T08:47:00.001-06:00

The companion piece to last week, another printed panel:

Same deal here. I cut it out back when I bought the thing, and then never sewed even one stitch.

what a week!

2011-09-30T20:15:00.000-06:00

Work sort of took over my life this week.
Hope you didn't feel too neglected.

I sewed a little on Henry. You'll have to take my word for that, because he's at home, and I'm not, and I don't have any pictures.

I knitted a little on the Lemon Drop socks.

And got a good start on Mission Impossible, the (not so very) plain black socks for Twin1.

I did a folded cuff on these, just because.

They're really not plain. Here's a closeup:

I think you can sorta see the cables there.

These are the sort of socks that require one to work in a well-lit area. As in, sit out in the bright sunshine, or near a window, because CFL lighting just isn't going to cut it.
But that's okay, because I love my boy. And these socks are going to look fabulous. In fact, I think Twin1 is going to love them.

All My Chickens, Week 35, Henry

2011-09-26T09:50:00.000-06:00

This is a little printed panel I picked up somewhere along the way when my Twins were little, and I just never got beyond cutting it out.

I want to finish it up, so I can enjoy it's cuteness.

(next week, we'll have his companion, Henrietta)

Sort of a Barnyard Bird

2011-09-21T15:55:00.001-06:00

I decided to try one in fabric first, and now I don't know if I need to try the knitted variety right away.

This Barnyard Bird was a simple as can be, and pretty much follows the same instruction as the knitted variety. Take a 5" square of fabric, fold it on the bias, into a triangle, and sew up the sides, leaving an opening to turn. Turn and stuff, then sew up the opening. Take a needle with a length of doubled thread, knot it into the point at the bottom of the chicken, and sew up through the middle of the back, pulling it up to desired shape, then back down to the point. Tie a knot to anchor it. The point will now be up inside the body, making a sort of base for the chick to sit on. Play with the "head" and/or "tail" and sew into place as desired with your needle and thread.

We've already missed the Spring...

2011-09-20T09:07:00.001-06:00

This simple and cute little Spring Chick Tea Towel came together quickly.

I used my favorite machine applique that looks hand-stitched, the blind hem stitch. This time using ecru thread, since so many of the elements are pastel.

I hand-stitched the eyes and the small bird's legs using 3 strands of orange floss - I just picked something that looked like it coordinated with the fabrics.

I have so many of these tea-towel applique kits in my stash, including at least half a dozen that are already fused onto towels.
I really need to get tough with myself and find a way to get these finished up and out of the sewing room.

Changes for Chickens

2011-09-19T19:17:00.000-06:00

I've taken a quick inventory of my UFOs and come up with quite a number of chicken-related projects. I'll have to be putting more of those into rotation, even if they're years out of print or unavailable, because I've got to get them finished up.

I'm thinking now that I could have run this a little better. Maybe offering up an online freebie, something similar to whatever I'm doing, as an alternative for you when I had a (purchased) something at home that needed finishing? Or at the very least, a link to some general directions that relate to whatever craft genre I'm working in that week.

Or maybe I'm thinking about this the wrong way. Maybe I just need to provide the inspiration, do whatever it is I want to do, document my craft experience (hopefully in some way that isn't totally boring), and just leave it at that?

Anyway, you'll be seeing a lot more Chickens that I just need to finish up, as opposed to exciting new patterns I've found online. But I'll try to put in a few freebies whenever I can, too.

All My Chickens, Week 34, Spring Chick

2011-09-19T08:22:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, we're just about to enter the Fall season (my favorite!), and here I am bringing up Spring.
I just didn't realize this was in my UFO pile back then. Now that I've found it, I have to get it done, even if it isn't the right timing.

Another of the kits I picked up at some craft fair or other. It's been fused onto the tea towel since who-knows-when, and I should get it stitched on, and then tuck it away to await the Spring.

Slice of Life

2011-09-17T14:22:00.000-06:00

I've been posting a lot of crafty stuff lately. So much so, that some of you may be thinking, "gee, all this stuff is cute and all, but, what about you? Is your whole life about crafts?"

It's not.

For instance, last night, when I went over to Barnes & Noble for Fab Fibers (darn!crafts again!), I stopped to look at the New Fiction table. I mean, I may have a house full of books and not enough book shelves, but I'm always looking for something new.

I picked up The Tower, The Zoo, and The Tortoise and flipped to a random page. (Because that's how I choose my books - I open them up, somewhere in the middle, and if the first few sentences I read make me want to read more, I take it home.) It was a passage about someone claiming a prosthetic from the London Underground Lost & Found, and...and I was totally hooked. How could I help it? Funny? You bet.

Work is work. That's probably enough about that. Except, we are getting some new software that will make my job easier, and that's exciting. But probably only exciting if you're me.

The Twins are doing fine. Both have their GED (flying colors, natch - they're both super-smart), and are looking for work. It's a tough world out there for the inexperienced, though, so nothing yet. Twin1 is also making serious progress towards a certain goal, and I'm very proud of him. I've always loved watching my kids grow and discover and learn. I suppose I just didn't expect that to continue into adulthood. (Not their growth - of course that should continue - just my fascination and awe.)

I've just started on my 3rd reading (in a row, not in my whole lifetime) of the Book of Mormon. I started reading my chapter a day when the Twins were in their Senior year, and when I finished it the first time, it just seemed right to start over. It takes about 9 months to read the whole thing, one chapter at a time. I'm trying to pay more attention and think it over more for this round.

I suppose I could say more. But I've got some serious crafting to do. Always another project waiting in the wings.

Eggy looks a little different

2011-09-16T12:43:00.000-06:00

I don't know what, exactly, I did different, but my version of Eggy looks a little more mature.

Or something.

Still cute, though, so there's that.
Stitched the eyes using black pearl cotton. Didn't have any black felt with me when I finished with the rest.
Wish I knew what she did to attach the wings - mine do not look anything like the pictures.

Yarns: Vanna in White, Mustard, and Scarlet

I collect cookie cutters

2011-09-15T09:15:00.001-06:00

I don't know why, but when I first feel that crisp hint of fall in the air, I start to think about baking. And cookies. And all the fancy cookies I could make.* Which always has me thinking about what new cookie cutter shapes there might be out there that I don't have yet.
I have a fairly extensive collection, if you want to know. But I don't have everything. Not yet.
While tidying my office earlier in the week, I ran across some magazine pages advertising a set of Halloween cutters you could order. I used to order these sets whenever possible, but I missed this one. It's from '97, so no chance of it still being available, but looking at the page, I want, no, NEED these cutters.
Such a cool Haunted House! And I love the wavy ghost!
In the margins of this page, I'd written myself notes on other sources for similar cutters, including what shapes I'd found there. American Traditions Cookie Cutters was one of them, and there was a long list, full of exclamation points. Clearly, I'd been enticed by this site.
For some reason, I'd not ordered at that time, whenever it was. If I had, I'm sure I'd already have the Grim Reaper, Wavy Ghost, and a Torch that is very similar to the LDS YW torch symbol (all found on the Fall/Halloween page), not to mention the Jelly Fish!
So many cookie cutters!

I think it's high time I ordered. If you have a hankering for some cut-out cookies, but you're bored with whatever shapes you've got at home, you might just want to check them out.

*In truth, I generally make bar or drop cookies, which are fancy only if you consider super-yummy ingredients to be fancy; but I enjoy, mostly in theory, occasionally in practice, making cut-out cookies and decorating them. For proof, see my chili-pepper cookies.

Simple Chicken

2011-09-14T08:35:00.000-06:00

I actually had this one completely stitched up not long after the original post.

It had to wait this long, because apparently, I'm dimensionally challenged, and I didn't figure out that if I did a design that was 33 x 36 stitches, on 14 count, (go ahead, do the math, I'll wait) it would not fit well in a frame measuring 2" x 3", which was the size I had handy.

Duh.

So, this had to wait until I found a larger frame. Which I kept forgetting about.

On a Roll

2011-09-13T09:13:00.000-06:00

I just keep finishing up stuff. Like these two tea towels.

Fall themed, so a little ahead of schedule, but they were handy when I was hunting up something quick to complete. Both are from kits I picked up at local craft fairs.

I know they're just small things, but I figure anything that leaves (ha!) the sewing room for good still counts as progress.

Did you know...

2011-09-12T15:44:00.000-06:00

Sock Monkey socks come in pink?!?

Neither did I, until I saw them in a shop in Seattle.

How cute is that?

All My Chickens, Week 33, Grandma Chicken

2011-09-12T08:47:00.000-06:00

In honor of Grandparents Day (which was yesterday), I selected this sweet little embroidery pattern depicting a (grand)motherly hen and a little chick.

I'm thinking pastels, for some reason. Perhaps on a dresser scarf.

Hip to be Square

2011-09-10T09:16:00.001-06:00

M-kay, this little square chick started out grey (not entirely sure where I was going with that anyway), and somewhat larger. Then I ran out of yarn, and, as it was an ancient leftover from the stash, there was no getting more to match. So I switched yarns, switched sizes, and made this cheerful cutie, just for you!

Pattern is great, easy to make up. Only thing is, I wondered why you'd want the top to be the part where you have to sew it together. If I make another, that's going on the bottom.

Except...

Except, if I did one in green, and over-stitched it in black, and somehow created a Franken-chicken.
Because then it would make sense. Totally.

Yarns: Red Heart Soft in Tangerine, Caron Simply Soft in Sunshine & Raspberry

It's the Momma

2011-09-09T09:23:00.001-06:00

Hey, so, I finally managed to get the rest of this little one finished and put together.

I think the beak is dumb. Too big.
And it totally doesn't stand up on it's own.
I slip stitched the wings together directly after finishing the crochet on each. Same with the beak. The body was sewn up after, and stuffed when it was almost all sewed up. On the legs/feet, after the foot portion, I slip-stitched the rest of the way back up the leg so I wouldn't have any weird yarn ends. I elected to stitch the eyes on using yarn instead of adding a bead or whatever. Three stitches with worsted weight, over the same area.

Yarns: Vanna in White, Mustard, and Scarlet. And a little scrap of Black.

Chicken Wristlet

2011-09-08T08:47:00.000-06:00

The humbug bag was so quick and easy, I'm sure it shouldn't be legal.

I used a pre-quilted fabric (Hancocks?) from my stash, and made the smallest size (finished size = 4 1/2" x 5 1/2" - kinda small for a make-up bag, and a little big for spare change, but it would hold your keys, phone, credit cards and the like).

I dunno why it tells you to have a 9" zipper for this size. You stitch it onto the short sides of a 6 1/2" x 9 1/2" rectangle, and I see no need for the extra length. It shows you how to shorten it to fit, but I did all of it just fine with only a 7" zipper.

Done and done. What's next?

What do Roosters have for Tea?

2011-09-07T09:30:00.001-06:00

I don't actually know. And probably don't want to know.
But I'm pretty sure they would use this cute tea-towel to help keep things tidy.

No clue where I got the kit, but the fabric pieces have been fused to the towel for years now, and it was high time I stitched them down and finished it off.

Stitched by machine, using the blind hem stitch on my Bernina, set to a super-short stitch length and a moderate width (around 2, usually) with ordinary black thread.

Legs stitched by hand, 3 strands black DMC (310) in a stem stitch. Eye bead stitched on by hand as well.

While I had the machine all loaded up and set for my favorite applique stitch, I finished off a couple more tea towels from the fused-but-not-stitched pile.

Frankie pattern from Acorn Hollow by Art to Heart

Halloween Trio from a kit purchased at local craft fair

Sure, I know it's only September, but if I'd waited until October, I'd probably have forgotten them again.

(I may have finally broken through my crafting funk!)

Chicken Scratch

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-06:00

I was finally able to complete this project, after I'd finished the Time Socks, while riding in the car and later, listening to stories.

It was a trifle boring, to tell the truth.

Also, the instructions? Not so good.

It occurred to me, about halfway through the second heart, that I'd seen it done some other way than row-by-row. I wasn't at home, so I couldn't reference my imagined source, but I was fairly certain that it could be done as a more whole-area sort of thing.

I meant to take pictures of this in progress, but the camera didn't seem to be to hand when I needed it, so I'll just have to try to describe what I did.

First, you'll work the border of the design in the second color. Work the Smyrna stitches either one-at-a-time or in rows, depending on your outline/area.

Switch to the main color. Now, instead of working the cross-stitch portions of the Smyrna stitch in a row, like you would in cross-stitch, work on the diagonal, and do the first half of the stitch throughout the entire piece, working it more like a running stitch, going from corner to corner of the gingham.

Then, complete the other half of the cross-stitch in a similar manner, working in the opposite diagonal.

Work side to side in running stitch on every row to complete the horizontal stitches, then top to bottom (or the other way 'round) to complete the vertical stitches.

The last step, where you run the threads under the horizontal and vertical stitches to make a circle, is done one circle at a time.

The back looks much neater when done this way, I think.

on the left, continuous stitching
on the right, done row-by-row

The Chairs of Destiny

2011-09-05T16:58:00.001-06:00

Remember those chairs I spotted on my last trip to Seattle? The ones that I didn't buy, because how would I get them home?

They're home.

We took a bigger vehicle this time.

In case you're wondering, NO, the bungee net did not hold. We didn't even make it out of Yakima. More bungees were purchased and applied after an exciting episode on the side of the highway involving snapped bungee cords, dragged chairs, and a helpful stranger.
The second set of bungees held. Lesson learned.

Once I've had a chance to spruce them up, you might just want to come over and have a seat. They're life-changing comfortable. Seriously.

All My Chickens, Week 32, Appliqued Tea Towel

2011-09-05T08:56:00.001-06:00

Among my many kits for various items is an applique kit for a tea towel.

Can't find it online at the moment, but it's pretty simple. In fact, you can take just about any drawing and trace it off for applique.

Coloring books often have just the right sort of picture - not too much detail, but basically correct in form. That's all you need to create your own applique template.

I'll be doing fusible web, with some machine stitching to secure it. I use my tea towels, and sometimes, they can get a little beat up.

Time Sock Completion

2011-08-31T15:50:00.002-06:00

Much knitting was done on the road trip:

Once we'd arrived, I got some help from my 3-yr-old niece:

she knitted 12 stitches on one sock, and 2 on the other

More knitting while on the ferry to Bainbridge Island:

Some speed knitting and a little sleep-knitting was done Saturday evening and parts of Sunday to get us this far

and finally, Monday evening (too late for the premier, but we couldn't get actual cable channels to show up on the TV anyway, alas) the socks were finished.

So there you have it. You can knit a pair of socks in about 2 weeks, even if you don't seem to have much spare time.

Because I didn't, really. And yet, the Time Socks are finished.

All My Chickens, Week 31, Humbug Bag

2011-08-29T08:29:00.002-06:00

A bit of a cheat this time. I plan to make this cute little bag using a chicken-printed fabric (ignore that huge duck - it's mostly chickens), which is basically the only way to tie this in with the theme at the moment.
(I hope you'll forgive me - I'm on vacation.)
The Humbug bag is simple, adorable, and useful, all in one. You can get the pattern here, or, if you're very clever, you might even be able to figure out how to make one without a pattern. (hint: the shape is similar to this project*)

*which brings up the idea of doing this bag with all the chicken parts as well, with the zip on the underside. could be cute, no?

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

can I have a little more time, please?

2011-08-26T14:02:00.001-06:00

I did some good work on the time socks during Fab Fibers,

I still have about 14 rounds to go before the gussets are done.

but then, when I got home, I was suddenly detoured into stitching up a new top instead. For me. It was something I'd been planning to do for a few weeks, just hadn't gotten to it yet.

This was a total start-to-finish project*, in one evening. I had this remnant of knit, and it was only 2/3 yd. I wanted that same top (S3759) out of it that I'd done with the pale yellow and the lovely purple, only this was even less fabric.

I barely managed to cut out all the pieces, and had to piece the neckband. Lucky for me, the butterflies didn't land anywhere embarrassing.
This looked fabulous with the black pants I was wearing yesterday, and I notice some deep red in there that probably means it will look great with my red suede skirt, too.
How much do I love this pattern? Lots, I guess.

But that won't help me get the time socks done in time.

*Wardrobe item the 13th, in case you wondered...

gussets are cool, I'm knitting gussets now

2011-08-25T18:06:00.000-06:00

The gussets are taking for-freaken-ever!

I am not doing well with seeing the whole picture of what I'm doing while trying to follow row-by-row directions for the gussets.
Yes, I know how to do a gusset on a sock. It's just that there is also a twisted rib thing going on here and there, and a diminishing segment of twisted rib below the zig-zag part, all while decreasing every other round for the gussets.
Not to mention, her rounds are not really written for the magic loop 2-at-a-time method, so one of the socks is done from the middle of one round to the middle of the next.
It's driving me crazy.
I keep getting lost.

But I really really really want to be wearing these socks while I watch the ever-evolving history/mystery of the Doctor unfold.

3rd Time's the Charm

2011-08-23T13:59:00.000-06:00

I've started my heel turns 3 times with this sock.

I'm so annoyed with myself.

The first time, I had only done 16 more rows, instead of "repeat these 2 rows 16 times". Duh.

The second time, I was so pleased when I had finally done all the row repeats, I didn't realize that it should be 34 rows (2 rows, worked 17 times each) instead of 36 (I need 16 more of these rows, and I've worked 2 rows, so together, that's 18, which means 36, right? Faulty math happens after 9pm, I think.) I was picking up the stitches down the side of the heel flap before I realized my mistake.

Now that I've ripped all that out (again), I think that, if I discover any more mistakes, I'm just going to forge ahead and work it out at some point before I start the rest of the foot. So there.

time sock update

2011-08-22T11:52:00.003-06:00

I've started the heel flap already, so it's looking pretty good for a Saturday goal of peering over the tops of my time-sock-wearing toes while watching the mid-season premier of Doctor Who.

I have a little bone to pick with the designer, though. The second sock (the one on the right - it has to do with the magic loop method) has you shift stitches before you can start the heel flap. If I was using double points, this wouldn't be a huge problem, as you'd just slip stitches from one needle to the next until you had it the way you want it. But with the magic loop method, the second sock in particular is difficult to shift. It asks that you stop 14 stitches short of finishing the chart section, and start the heel flap stitches there. The heel flap should be on the needle in front at this point. To get to the other 1/2 of the needed stitches, which are on the cable at the back, you need to first travel through the entire first sock (and at this point, you only wanted to be knitting on the heel flap half, so you're just slipping stitches for the other half), or work backwards through most of the second. Then, you have to get a double point needle of the same size, and shift the requisite number of stitches onto that, so you can be ready to knit them with the heel flap. Then, shift the extra stitches that you won't be using for the heel flap to the cable at the back, and now, finally, you can proceed with the actual knitting.

WHAT?!?

Why in the heck would I want to do that, when I could have just started the second sock at the right point in the pattern, so that I could just proceed to the heel flap naturally?

(are all the non-knitters totally bored/confused now? I won't be offended if you've stopped reading. really.)

I've made notes on my pattern as to the extremely simple change, and those notes will also go on my Rav project notes so perhaps others can benefit from my frustrations. It's clear that the designer hadn't actually worked both socks, at the same time, using the magic loop method, when the pattern was written. Normally, that wouldn't bother me. I'm used to having to interpret patterns so that I can use my preferred method of sock construction, and I'm getting pretty good at it, I think. But this particular pattern states that it is written using the magic loop method.

NOT!

Perhaps it was written with that method in mind, but worked only one sock at a time? But again, why, when it's easily avoided, would you want to shift the stitches at all?

Okay, rant over. You can now carry on with your day.

All My Chickens, Week 30, Chicken Run-ner

2011-08-22T08:42:00.003-06:00

I've been taking stock of the many assorted chicken related patterns, kits, and nearly-finished items that were already a part of my sewing room landscape when I started this challenge, and I've come to the conclusion that, as we're over half-way through our year of Chickens, I need to get serious about these.

One such project is Chicken Run-ner, by Lake View Primitives, which I bought as a kit from a local shop, (Corn Wagon, I think) and then, instead of starting to work on it, I would periodically get it out of the box, or off the shelf, and stroke the lovely felted wool while I thought about cutting out the pattern pieces.

A few weeks ago, while entertaining myself in the aforementioned fashion, I found I was truly ready to tackle this one. It took a few days to trace off all the pieces and cut them out, but now it's all ready to stitch together.

I am pretty sure this is going to take more than one week to put together, because it's all hand-stitching.* But that's not exactly out of the ordinary with this challenge.

*not to mention, I'm tyring to finish the Time Socks

time sock day 3

2011-08-20T12:40:00.002-06:00

too many projects?

2011-08-19T15:20:00.009-06:00

Just how many (active) projects is too many, I wonder?

Currently, I'm hard at work on the Time Socks, and making pretty good, um, time, too.

A whole 2 1/2" now. I just might have a chance of finishing before next Friday.

Still working on the Amethyst Ribbon Socks, though they've been set aside until the Time Socks are done (or relegated to a slower pace). I'm just about done with the gusset.

why do I think of Tigger every time I look at these?

Actually, I'm wishing I'd finished these before picking up the Time Socks, because after working with the Felici yarn, this stuff feels positively course.

Taking up the bulk of my project bag at this moment are some All My Chickens projects. Though there are some that aren't getting hauled about with me (like I'm expecting to work on them at any given moment?), I have no less than 6 vying for my attention every time I reach into that bag:

Chicken Scratch Heart

bet you thought I forgot about this one

Momma Chicken

barely begun, but at least it's a start

Eggy & Barnyard Birds

neither of which have actually been started

Square Chicks

I've done the base, and started up the sides!

and, the Chicken Strip Mini Quilt

I'm quilting already, so that's not bad, right?

Then, just in case I get tired of working with yarn (or fabrics) I've got this needlepoint kit

nor very far into it, but hey, sorting the floss took ages!

So, what I'm wondering is, where is the tipping point? If I added just one more project to the list, would it start to feel like too many to think about, thus leading me to work on none of them? Or would that take another half dozen or so?

(Do I really want to find out? Do you?)

Time Socks

2011-08-18T12:06:00.000-06:00

I decided it was way past time to cast on some socks in my Time Traveler stripe Felici yarn

and, after looking at the other projects on Rav in that yarn, I decided two things:

I won't call the project Timey-Wimey or Wibbley-Wobbley.

The stripe is strong enough to not get lost in cables and such.

So I cast on for Frankensocks. A lot of others did Jaywalker or Monkey. I like the Jaywalker pattern, but I've got some already on the needles. The Monkey pattern is nice, but it's not quite what I'm after.
I figured there should be something more than just a plain sock, and I like the look of the Frankensock. Both of them.
This business of knitting into the back of the loop while doing the right twist mini-cable might do me in, but I think it's the right pattern for this yarn. For me, anyway.

Now, what about a name for these?

And, do you think it's possible to get them done before the mid-season premier next weekend? (Go on...watch the trailer...I know you want to! Watch the Prequel! I'll wait...)

Lookie - I've already knitted a whole inch!

That's a good start, right? I can easily finish them in, let's see, 9 days? Piece of cake.

Totally kidding. But I'm going to knit on them as much as possible anyway. Also, can I just tell you? I love this Felici yarn! It's just about the softest thing I've worked with since baby alpaca. I need more. I don't even care what color, I just need more. Need, I'm saying. It's that good.

towels are not fulling-friendly

2011-08-17T17:49:00.000-06:00

I had the pieces of this red and brown tote all crocheted and ready to assemble ages ago (can't even think how long - but years, not months, I'm pretty sure), and I was stalled a bit by (you guessed it) the assembly process.

The way I hate having to sew together parts that I just created, so please explain to me why I couldn't have just created them already assembled? Please?

Except that, sometimes, that's not possible/practical. I think the little flap might have been the sort of thing you could have worked right onto the body of the bag, but the straps really had to be made up separate and sewn on. (Unless someone knows how you would manage the little circle thing as a surface chain/embroidery sort of thing? Thought not.)

I ran across this un-finished-object while looking for another that I hadn't seen in a while, and decided it was time to just sit myself down and sew the dang thing. Ugh.

It was hard. Really hard. All that business of cutting the yarn, threading the needle, placing the pieces just exactly so. Trying not to have my stitches show up.* Working with the same color yarn just in case. Geez.

Once it was sewn together, it was time to throw the thing into a hot water wash and shrink it.

Now, I'd gone and used this lovely red wool, and therefore I was concerned that it might just bleed a little color.** Washing it with the sheets sounded like trouble. Besides, the current sheets on my bed are denim, rather new, still quite dark, and likely to bleed some color themselves in hot water. I pondered this for a day or so. I considered throwing in some (faded) jeans, but couldn't think of a pair that I was willing to sacrifice to possible shrinkage and/or pinkness. I finally decided I'd use an old pink towel to add that little extra abrasion to help it shrink nicely.

This started out pretty well. Although, on second thought, I might have used a bit too much detergent. It was a hot sudsy mess in there.

The tote shrank up just right, I think. But now, we see why a towel is not the best fulling companion.

I spent the next 1 1/2 hrs hand picking the towel bits off.
That was fun. (NOT)

In the end, I'm pretty pleased with this. But next time, I'll know to leave the towels behind. In fact, I'm considering sewing up a little fulling bag out of some old, very faded, jeans - contain those wool fuzzies, and speed up the process all in one go. Sounds like a plan.

*which really won't show at all after it's shrunk, but I worried about it anyway

**in point of fact, it did not

All My Chickens, Week 29, Eggy!

2011-08-15T15:58:00.001-06:00

More yarn this week. This is a quick, cute little crochet project.

Eggy, the Cute Chick, by Ami Amour. (Rav link)

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Just Right

2011-08-11T17:40:00.000-06:00

One of my book club besties decided to host our meeting in the middle of the day, at her backyard pool. She sent the hubby off with the kids (after he grilled up our turkey burgers), and those of us that could get away enjoyed a fabulous lunch (followed by some fancy snow-cones) and a few hours lounging by and in the pool.

Now, I'm sitting at my desk, smelling of sunscreen, my hair in soft waves down my back, dreaming I'm still there.

It was just exactly what I needed. Thanks a million, 'Chelle!

Heeeeere's Clucky!

2011-08-09T18:27:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, it's been ages since I announced this one. I took way too long getting it done. Fabric selection* was a big part of that, (choose the main fabric, and then let that dictate the rest of the color choices) but once I'd settled the question, it should have gone together pretty fast.

Melly and Me does great patterns. I especially love how she did this beak! At first, I wondered why you'd want the weird shape you get when you sew together two of the beak pieces, but once I set it against the face, I could see where she was going with it.

see how it does that little pointy bit on the sides? and how the seam makes it look like she could open her beak? LOVE it!

I started the sewing up by doing the little chicks first. I sorta felt like I wasn't getting anywhere, and I was still puzzling over how I was going to do the tail and comb (I didn't want to use fusible interfacing on this for the stiffness, because I have my own method for that - I use a layer of thin batting, sewn in when I sew up the two pieces). On pieces like the wings, that's just one layer, because the inner side of the wing doesn't need the padding, so that's easy. But on the tail and such, it needed to have it on both sides. I finally figured out that I could sew it together with one layer of batting on the bottom, and then flip it over and sew it again, following my stitching, to attach the second layer. Worked out well.

I was a little confused at how she did the chicks beaks, because it wasn't quite looking like her drawings. I finally figured out it what she was getting at, and it's pretty clever. Here's how my pieces looked when I folded them up:

And then when I inserted them into the opening:

That's the raw edges sticking out to the right, with the folded bits inside, so they'll be on the outside when it's turned right side out.

And here's some pics of how I do the layer of batting sewn in:

When I work with smaller pieces, I don't generally leave an opening along the stitching line, like you would with larger pieces, because it's really difficult to turn them and then get that opening sewn up just right. If this had been a piece you would see from both sides, I couldn't have done it this way, but as these would end up being sewn directly to the chicks body, I could hide the sewn-up slit easily.

You sew it up all the way around the edges, and then cut a slit in ONE layer (the batting is on the other side here). Clip your curves as usual, and then turn it right sides out through the little slit.

Then you just overcast the slit closed. I didn't need to put any stuffing in there because I'd already sewn in a layer of batting. Make sense?

I did the momma wings almost the same way, except I turned them through an opening left along the side, because they're much bigger.

I elected to use a little pouch of poly pellets to keep my chicken upright, instead of the cardboard insert she suggests. I like that it's washable and flexible. I used the base piece again and cut out two layers of muslin (any fabric scrap will do - you won't see it) and stitched those together using 1/4" seam allowance. I left a small opening, which I then put a funnel into to fill it up with the pellets.

Stitch up the hole, and that's it. No need to turn this, as it will be totally enclosed in the chicken. Just slip it in through the opening in the base (after you stuff the rest of the chicken), settle it into place so it's where it should be, and sew up the opening.

FYI, not all the pieces have the seam allowance included. You have to pay attention to her (4 page!) directions, because some of the pieces will be cut out and then sewn together, and others are to be drawn on the fabric, sewn on the line, and then cut out. That's not unusual, exactly, but I finally labeled my pattern pieces because I was getting confused.

The directions for this one are so long, at one point, I considered checking off the bits of directions as I'd done them. It doesn't tell you that you've left off working on the momma when you start up the chicks, it just starts up with the little baby beaks, so I got a little lost.

Although, I suppose, if I'd done this in the right order, it would have made more sense.

Anyway, she's done, and I think she's pretty cute. I'm dying to use this beak on something else, too. So very clever!

*main fabric is Free Spirit by MoMo, wings are Rosemarie Lavin for Moda, the rest were just whatever, all from my stash

All My Chickens, Week 28, Barnyard Birds

2011-08-08T18:02:00.001-06:00

A sweet little knit, Barnyard Birds is perfect for a beginner, because all you do is knit up a square (or use up your gauge swatches, if you've got any).

In fact, I'm thinking you could do these from a square of fabric, if you're not into knitting. I might have to try that. (Obviously, I decided fabric was the way to go here. Principle is the same - start with a square, then stitch up just as directed for the knit variety.)

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Birthday Fairy in the City

2011-08-05T20:57:00.000-06:00

We took the bus into Seattle (the bridge we crossed floats!) and then the monorail to the Space Needle

where we waited

and waited

until we finally got to take the 41 second elevator ride to the top.

We walked around a couple times outside, looking at the scenery, finding my brothers office building and the like.

Back inside to wait for the elevator down

and that was it

The Birthday Fairy had been pretty good to us. We caught the right bus, got to the monorail platform just before a huge line formed, and really didn't have a forever-long wait to go up the Space Needle. We had just enough time to make all the kids some stamped quarters before our return monorail got there, too.

Back at the station, we decided we'd test our luck one more time and try to make it over to Pike's Place Market, just in case they had summer hours later than 6pm (they did for the shops, though the stalls were all closing up), and my brother ordered us a pan of the "World's Best" Mac & Cheese (and a tub of fresh cheese curds) at Beecher's, while my nephew declared: I DON'T WANT TO EAT HERE! I JUST WANT TO GO HOME! and my niece and I found some cheese with pretty purple flowers pressed into the top of it, which I could have sworn I took a picture of but apparently not.

My niece fell asleep before we'd reached the station again.
That girl is heavy as lead when she's sleeping.
And we still had to have her Pretty Pink Party once we got home.

Chicken Wing bikini, anyone?

2011-08-05T12:41:00.000-06:00

These are the wings for Clucky, ready to be sewn to the body. They've been sitting like this for a while, and every time I see them, I think they look more like a bra than a pair of wings.

It sort of begs to be done properly, don't you think? Maybe not person-sized, but on a doll?

I mean, I like the idea, and I'd be happy to design a chicken-themed bikini (with tail feathers, even), but it's not quite "me", so it seems impractical to draft up a chicken-wing bodice that won't get worn. Even if it is a cute idea.

Bluework Hen

2011-08-04T15:48:00.000-06:00

I worked up the Blue Hen Chicken pretty much the same as the redwork version - enlarged to 200%, same fabric, using DMC 825. I'm noticing here that maybe it's a little crooked. Oops. I'll tweak it when I sew it up.

I'll be putting the two together into a pillow. Soon.

Redwork Rooster

2011-08-03T20:22:00.001-06:00

I got a little delayed as to working this one. What can I say? Busy work month, combined with spontaneous road-trip, and there you have it.

I used 3 strands of DMC 816, stitched entirely in back-stitch. I can't recall the name of the fabric I used - I got it at Corn Wagon Quilts a while back. It's sorta popular for rustic embroidery, I think.

When doing this sort of work, I generally trace the pattern onto the fabric using a light box and a pencil or pen. Sometimes, if the fabric is thin enough, you don't need a light box. This fabric is thicker, so it's necessary.
I enlarged the pattern 200% to get a chicken measuring about 6 1/2" tall by 4 1/2" wide, and I cut the fabric about 8 x 6 to give me something to work with when I sew it up later.

Getting Ready, or, Am I Pretty Yet?

2011-08-01T18:58:00.000-06:00

(back to the Seattle trip - I'm taking this in smallish bites)

After a quick late lunch, we got ready to go into the city proper. Any of you who have littles know that this can be a bit of a production, this getting ready to go anywhere. No exception here.
The two boys were ready pretty quick, but my sweet niece likes to dawdle. And wanted my company while she did/didn't do what needed doing before we could leave.

Me: are you done yet?
P: no....what's that?
Me: (putting on mascara) I'm putting a little pretty on my eyes, so I don't look so tired
P: (nods)
(I finish, and go put away my make-up bag)
Me: are you done yet?
P: not yet....where's your pretty?
Me: I finished, so I put it away.
P: (mumble) need your pretty
Me: (thinking, um, mom & dad are not going to be okay with purple mascara on a 3 yr old, but maybe I can just pretend - she won't know) oh, okay
(I go to fetch the make-up bag - everyone is getting tired of waiting - we have a bus to catch)
Me: okay, I'm back....you done yet?
P: no....do the pretty
Me: (getting out the mascara and pulling out the brush) okay, now open your eyes really wide
P: (shaking head) not me - you. you need more pretty.

oh.

If you can believe it, by this time, I was starting to feel a bit less patient with the child. Not that it helped.

Eventually, we were out the door and off to the bus stop. This would be a first for the kids, riding the bus, so this should be...entertaining.

All My Chickens, Week 27, Chicken Strip Mini-Quilt

2011-08-01T15:35:00.001-06:00

This week, I'm taking the time to finish up something I started years ago, from this seriously adorable pattern, the Chicken Strips Mini Quilt, from Seasoned For Small Spaces.

(Not a free pattern, but it's not expensive, either.)

Next week, we'll be back to the free stuff, promise.

getting there

2011-07-30T17:10:00.000-06:00

Friday morning, still tired from staying out too late Thursday night, I went to work like I should, and then, around 11am, was overcome by a serious need to hop in a car and go to visit my brother and his family, even if it was a 14 hour drive. (Yahoo Maps said 12 hrs 57 min. It lies. But I will forgive it, because it may have been the 12 that drew me in.) I called mom, and she was disbelieving, but totally on board if I was really going to leave work and get on the road. My office mate was checking rental car rates and telling me I had to go.

So it was decided.

I did what work I felt couldn't wait for Tuesday, tapping my foot and shaking my fist at the computer when it wouldn't work as fast as I wanted to. I was outta there by 2pm.

Meanwhile, mom had booked the rental car, and we had both tried to enlist other road-trippers, with no luck. (I did, however, omit to invite my baby sister, totally by accident, which was really really sad, because she says she would have come along. That would have been triple the fun, and I feel bad that I forgot. (Forgive me?))

Somewhere in there I remembered I still hadn't done my laundry, which meant I had no clean undies to pack. Whatever.

I sped home and packed in about 15 minutes, and raced over to pick up mom. More toe-tapping at the rental car place (when I'm ready to go, nobody is fast enough for me), and then a quick detour to park my car in the driveway. (This is when I realized I hadn't packed pajamas and had to run inside for some. I was in and out in a heartbeat. Seriously.)

We hit the road by about 3:30, just in time to run into commuters in the Northern end of the state. (More toe-tapping.)

Mom and I like to stop and stretch when we travel by car, to keep us from getting "car leg". We stopped for dinner in Snowville, where we walked the short distance to the post office to deposit my Netflix I'd meant to send back from the office. (I can be forgetful.)

A couple hours later, we stopped at a rest stop, and gave an old water wheel a spin.

That thing spun for quite a while, once we got it going, which gave us a fit of the giggles, as it tended to spin one way for a while, hesitate, and then spin the other, due to the broken bits.

This rest stop also boasted some serious hand driers that made ripples in our skin, sending us off into laughter again.

We're easily entertained.

Later, we stopped for the night, in Meridian. It was apparently totally un-exciting, as the camera didn't make an appearance at all. We were on the road again by 6am.

Many Rest Stops and gas station fill-ups later, among them a slightly longer stop at a Fruit & Antique shop, the sign of which declared ANTIQUE FRUIT, where we saw these irresistible (but how would we get them home?) set of outdoor chairs:

we arrived in Kirkland and were greeted, a little shyly, by this little angel and her family.

Wearing Corn

2011-07-29T14:38:00.000-06:00

Finally finished my corn-fiber socks last night.

I kept trying different bind-off techniques, and I just wasn't satisfied with the amount of stretch I was getting from any of them. So, basically, they've really been done, as far as the knitting goes, for a while now. It was just a matter of getting them off the needles and onto my feet.
So far, I think wearing corn is a good thing. We'll see if I feel any different at the end of the day, I suppose, but I think they'll get worn pretty often.

Pattern is Cornrows, worked toe-up with a modified Fleegle heel and a YO Bind-off.Yarn is Maizy in Iguana.

If I'm going to tell the story of the road trip to Seattle, I really have to start with Thursday

2011-07-27T18:02:00.000-06:00

(To be honest, ever since I found out they were moving, before the birthday, I wanted to be there. It just didn't seem like the most responsible thing for me to do during a busy work month.)

It started when I was at the post office, standing in line to mail her birthday package. (Did it get there yet? It should have been there Saturday, but it wasn't. It seems to be lost.) I thought I'd better double check the address, just to be sure, so I called my brother. He sounded sorta homesick, like he was missing his mom and dad and siblings, and it just got to me. (Possibly, this was more me than him. Can't say for sure. Doesn't matter.) At that point, I mailed the package and called mom to suggest they might want to be sure they were on Skype that night (which they were). I knew I had a lot of work to do, and it wasn't at all practical to even think about taking off for the long holiday weekend. Not at all. So I returned to work, and attempted to put the idea out of my mind.

To further put the idea to rest, I distracted myself by taking my new shoes (and leggings) out on the town:

These shoes are actually incredibly comfortable (Vera Wang via Kohl's), and the leggings, despite being something I'd normally place in the they-really-shouldn't-make-them-in-size-16 category, seemed to flatter my figure. The top I wore covered my derriere, so I felt pretty good stepping out.

My usual Thursday knitting plans had been preempted, so instead, I joined up with the Fab Fibers crowd for afters. Our resident Roller Derby gal - Molly Stormin' - was meeting us at Sammy's, and I especially wanted to show off the shoes to her. Make her a little jealous. Because I wish I was doing Roller Derby, and I'm not. Also, they seemed like her kind of shoe. (They are.)

Hanging out at Sammy's seemed to do the job, because I didn't think about Seattle, not really.

It was the next morning that got me.

It was a fun-filled weekend in Seattle

2011-07-26T10:29:00.001-06:00

but I'll have to tell you all about it later.

As with any vacation, there is a mammoth amount of work waiting for me at the office.

Drop Dead Diva

2011-07-21T12:04:00.000-06:00

Are you watching this? It's my new favorite!

I was getting into Mad Men, watching the first seasons on DVD, but then I was at mom's, and she was watching Diva, and all of a sudden, I don't care what's wrong with Betty, because Jane is just so....amazing.

(I find Mad Men to be just a tad depressing, frankly, though I love the clothes.)

Drop Dead Diva? totally uplifting. How cute is Jane? And smart, too. It just goes to show, attitude is everything.
I wanna be like Jane.*

*I have to say, though, if she's a size 16, how short is she? Because, I'm pretty sure I don't look quite that...curvy.

All My Chickens, Week 25, Blue Hen Chicken

2011-07-18T13:27:00.001-06:00

The second part of our two-part project, from the same source as last week.

Martha's State Bird Embroidery Patterns, this time, the Blue Hen Chicken (Delaware).

I'm doing this one in blue. Which makes it bluework, right?

Make sure you do yours the same size as last week, whatever that is. Next week we'll put them together (which, I guess, makes this more of a 3-part project) into a fun little accent pillow. Or not so little, depending on how big you decided to make your bird. Either way, it will work, and it will be cute.

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Bad Baby Adventure

2011-07-16T09:49:00.000-06:00

There is apparently a conspiracy against good brie this weekend. I had to go to three stores, starting at 7:30 AM, just to find something I could use to concoct a good Bad Baby Pie.

Day's only had President, in an herb variety. Totally unacceptable.

Macey's had none at all. Except maybe some of those little individual triangles, which isn't going to work.

At Smith's I found they had imported Irish Butter. I wondered just what recipe you might need to justify buying expensive, imported butter. They also had the same herb President. I asked at the deli, and she pointed out that there was some other kind in a round box. I'd only seen the Camembert, but she was right - there was Alloute Baby Brie. I wasn't sure what the difference might be between "baby" and the usual, but I wasn't going to try another store.*

It's acceptable. In fact, it's pretty good.

Pie is in the oven, nearly done. And then it's off to SLC for Miss P's birthday party. I think we're going to be late.

*Costco carries Margaux, but they don't open until 10 AM.

HP7P2

2011-07-15T09:52:00.000-06:00

SO. GOOD.

SERIOUSLY.

I didn't get the camera out. We got there only an hour before the movie, so we had to split up and take whatever seats we could find (it was either that, or sit right down in the very front), so it would have made for odd pictures anyway.

The effects are so good, I didn't find myself questioning anything, or wondering how they achieved the effect. I just believed everything I saw.

(Dragons are real, right? And trolls?)

Speaking of effects, I have a buddy from my high school years (hey, Rich!) that has worked on most of the HP movies (and lots of others) with a company called Double Negative out in London. This time, I actually found his name in the credits! It was so seriously cool to be able to point at the screen and say "I know that guy!", even if it is one of the many many names that appear way down at the end. It's just...cool.

Also? If you didn't already love Snape, you will after this one. Even if you're not just seeing these movies for your Alan Rickman fix. Which I'm not. Really.

Thursday, I don't care about you

2011-07-14T08:48:00.010-06:00

1. I'm still in a crafting funk. I look around at my many projects, and I just don't wanna.

2. Apparently, I'm so against doing anything creative, I was driven to mending.

3. I mended a velvet & satin bean-bag frog.

4. He'd been in the mending pile for at least 5 years. Maybe 10.

5. It took about 20 minutes to sew up the 1/2" hole and reinforce a couple of other frayed portions.

6. I have no idea who this elegant bean-bag frog belongs to.

7. Apparently, the funk is now extending into the kitchen.

8. I made cookies Monday evening.

9. It wasn't fun.

10. The cookies are...not quite up to my usual standard.

11. I'm supposed to make a dessert for a funeral, but I'm concerned that whatever I prepare will bear the mark of my current funk, and possibly spread the malaise to anyone who consumes it.

12. Considering the intended recipients, this seems like something I should try to avoid.

13. I need chocolate.

Rooster #1 finally finished

2011-07-13T09:25:00.001-06:00

Remember the Papercut Rooster? My first project for All My Chickens? No?

I didn't forget about it. I just had trouble with the finishing.

I wanted to either sandwich it between two panes of glass, or put it on a black background. Both options turned out to be more involved than you'd think, so there it sat, unframed.

I finally just decided to go with "good enough" and get it framed and on the wall, in whatever way I was able. If I find that "just right" piece of black paper, or another sort of frame that seems to want to be used with only glass, I might change things. (The frame I got, the things that hold the back in place were attached to the backing, so I would have had to get all kinds of clever to figure out how to keep everything in place without them. I wasn't up to it.)

IF I ever update it, I'll be sure and put it out here for you to see. In the meantime, I think it'll do.

If you were at my office right now...

2011-07-12T16:15:00.000-06:00

I'd let you have one of my Cowboy Cookies:

But you might have to fight my plant for it.

(caring for a Peace Lily can be very rewarding)

recently completed

2011-07-12T08:29:00.001-06:00

I've sort of been in a bit of a funk where sewing and crafting is concerned, (did you notice?) and I'm trying everything I can to pull myself out of it.

Saturday, Jul 2, between dinner and fireworks, I rebuilt my scarecrow:

something's not-quite-right with his head here...

He'd been whacked pretty good a few months back and had his backbone (dowel) broken. I had no choice but to totally rebuild, and it was obvious to anyone that his clothes were totally falling to bits. (The coveralls were the same pair he started with, a decade or so ago, but he'd had his shirt changed once.)

When I went to DI for the clothes, I had a choice of 18 mo or 3-4 yr sizes, both in coveralls and plaid shirts, so I went with the smaller set. Not sure that was the right decision, considering how much raffia hangs out from his sleeves. I might have to go back for something slightly larger. If I recall, the last ones were 2T.
I was working from the old body - the book with instructions having been stored in the attic - so I'm not sure I remembered to do everything right.

I finished this seasonally appropriate appliqued dishtowel the next day:

I had already stitched down all the pieces, I just needed to add the embroidery and buttons. (Note to self: when stitching with white or cream floss, use an extra strand - it's practically invisible otherwise.)
This comes as a kit, with buttons, and fabric pieces cut and ready to iron on. You add your own dishtowel (or whatever) and the thread/embroidery. I pick them up at local craft fairs.

Check that one off the list.

Looked around the sewing room for anything else in a "summer" sort of vein, but didn't see anything within arms reach (boy, that sounds incredibly lazy). Instead, I picked up this forever UFO Gingerbread Garland:

I'd sewn up the dolls and dressed the boys, but had yet to sew up the dresses or string them all together.

I managed, somehow, to get both dresses sewn up (in two sessions) and then wasted a bit of time looking for buttons to put on the straps at the back. I wanted them to be just so, but finally went with good enough.
Took me a few to figure out how I wanted to string them together, but I think this worked pretty well.
It may not be seasonally appropriate, but hey, it's out of the sewing room forever, so that's a good thing.

Still sorta feeling the funk. Hoping to break through soon.

All My Chickens, Week 24, Rhode Island Red

2011-07-11T08:44:00.001-06:00

This week and next are a two-part project. I thought it might be cool to make a pillow using the two different chickens from Martha's State Bird Embroidery Patterns. (from this link, click on "old fashioned line drawings")

This week, we'll do the Rhode Island Red chicken (uh, Rhode Island, of course)

in redwork (which just means embroidery in only one color, red, using whatever stitches you need to complete the work, mostly back-stitch, chain stitch, or other outline stitch of choice).

The download has all the state birds, so print what you need, and re-size if you want. I'm excited.

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Prepare to be refreshed...

2011-07-07T10:40:00.002-06:00

All My Chickens, Week 23, Momma Chicken

2011-07-05T08:55:00.001-06:00

From Lion Brand, a cute little Momma Chicken to crochet.

I might alter the assembly a little to cut down on sewing. But you probably guessed that.

*pic of my own creation added after-the-fact*

Come on over!

2011-07-01T13:35:00.001-06:00

Hey, all! I just wanted to throw this out there, in case there was anyone that I didn't talk to, or who doesn't already know:

Everybody is welcome to come watch the fireworks from Stadium of Fire on my front lawn, Sat, Jul 2.

We're having a BBQ at 6pm (come if you want to - potluck - there should be plenty to eat - I'm providing burgers, hot dogs, and the fixin's), on the lovely patio:

photo from last year - after the party

and then we'll gather out on the front lawn (whenever they start the show, after dark, or whenever it is) for snow cones and such, while we watch the fireworks.

You may think it's odd for me to throw the invite out into the world, but that's how we roll for this one. Anyone and everyone is always welcome, and there's always someone new at the party. So come on over - we have a GREAT view!

Need the address? email, leave a comment, or call. I'm here.

That's All

2011-06-30T16:28:00.000-06:00

Well, we've finally reached the end of June, and the end of MMJ. I miss my "regular" clothes.

Day 27, sporting a me-made necklace and a mama-made blouse:

Blouse is same pattern as the blue one seen here. The fabric of this one is all crinkly, and was absolutely THE look at the time. I have worn this blouse to death, as evidenced by the many many torn and worn-out places, most of which are hidden near seams. The elastic at the cuff has completely lost it's bounce, but with so many seams falling to bits on this already, I fear it would just start a round of endless mending if I replaced it. I should really just let this one go, but I love it so. (Thanks, mom! I love you.)

Day 28, and I had no choice but to wear this previously seen brown blouse.

I did take some time to do my hair that morning, which is why I'm turned away. I want you to ignore the blouse and see the hair.

Also wearing me-made earrings and bracelet.

Pants are store-bought, and are the pair I was hoping to replace with the recently finished too-small pair, made in a similar fabric. The shape of these isn't quite right on me, but I loved the fabric. I planned to toss them as soon as I finished my "improved" version. So much for that.

I think I've figured out why I haven't made the "real" version of this blouse yet. The neckline on this is far too wide/low for me. I wear an undershirt with this one, for the sheer factor, but also because the neckline, while it is pulled up with the drawstring, is far too wide and low. My undies would be peaking out if I didn't cover them up, and that's never good. I have one other not-sheer blouse with a neckline this wide, and I find I don't want to wear it, even with the undershirt, because it's always slipping off to one side or the other. Sure, the undershirt maintains modesty for me, but I'd like not to be fighting the neckline, too.

So, I'll have to raise the neckline before I make this in the prettier, more expensive fabric. I don't like altering patterns. Besides, I'm thinking this blouse hits me at the wrong point on my hips.

Day 29, and, um, please don't laugh.

I love this jumpsuit. Truly. I know, it's all lacy and pastel and feminine, and not quite the right thing for work. But it's so pretty! (right?)

I couldn't find the pattern for this, so I can't tell you what it is. I probably have another one cut out and lurking among my many UFO's. Can't recall for sure. If I do, though, I should probably just let it go. The look is so 90's.

And, finally, for day 30, falling back on my trusty me-made white t-shirt (how has it stayed white all these years? I'll never know), and a mom-made jacket:

I don't think I've worn this jacket much at all. It was made to go over an off-white dress, which I wore to a wedding (not mine, of course). After that, I wore it to church a few times, but not very often. I've decided the dress needs to be shortened (I think), and maybe taken in a bit. Today was the first time I'd even considered wearing the jacket with something else. Can't tell you the pattern, because I didn't make it. Might be one of the Khalia Ali patterns, though. It has that sort of feel to it.

The storm yesterday blew away all the fading roses. I was loath to prune the bush, because there isn't enough time for it to re-bloom before my BBQ Saturday, but I guess there's no reason to leave it now.

Bye-bye roses, and bye-bye June.

remarkably similar

2011-06-29T08:48:00.001-06:00

These old shelves from the vault at work:

no doubt going home with someone for free

look an awful lot like these brand spankin' new Expedit shelves:

complete with unassembled drawer unit due to missing pieces

recently purchased ($$$!!) from IKEA.

Bummer.

Egg Critter how-to (sort of)

2011-06-28T15:37:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I did manage to make a reasonable copy of our cute little flag-waving fella:

And I remembered to take a few pictures along the way, so I could share it with you.

It won't take long - I made mine in one evening. (see previous post for a list of supplies)

(It wouldn't be right for me to give you a pattern, even if I'd made one, because it wasn't my design to begin with. If I could find the artist, I'd refer you to her. Anyone know who it is?)

First, I sketched the basic outlines with pencil:

(my wooden egg came with primer already on it, but if yours was plain, you might want to give it a coat of white for starters) The line for the bottom of the jacket should be about 5/8" up from the bottom, measured straight up from the table, not along the curve. The bottom of the face should be just about at the half in the front, and curve up to about 1/2" from the top (measure straight again, not along the curve) at the center back. Line for the top of the belt should be half-way down the area between jacket fronts, and the lower line about 1/4" down. Corners of jacket at neckline are about 1/2" apart.

I used one paintbrush for almost all of this. It was a flat brush, natural bristles, about 1/4" wide. Don't try to use the kind that come with kids watercolor sets - get a decent brush, or the hairs will be coming out all over your project.

I had a little difficulty at first, because I couldn't find my flesh-toned paint. I know I have it, but I left it with another project-in-progress a while back, and I wasn't able to locate the project. (I know where it was before I moved the sewing room, but where I put it after that...I have no idea.) So I had to get creative and mix my own. Lots of white, a fair amount of something sort of peach-colored, and a touch of red, and I had something that looked sorta skin-colored. Do yourself a favor, and buy a bottle. I had to mix paint because it was late at night, and the craft stores were all closed up.

Paint the face/head area first, with the skin-color paint, and let that dry.

Then paint the "pants" in red (mine is called Crimson):

sorry for the blur - it was late

You can see that I ignored the pencil line that went straight across under the jacket, and went up to the belt lines. You'll want to paint a little over the bottom (flat) edges. If you don't have something to set it in so it can dry upside-down, just hold it a few minutes and fan it. It won't take long.

After that, I sorta forgot about taking pictures. I kept meaning to stop and go to bed (it was late), but every time I rinsed the brush, I would come back to the table and think, "Maybe I'll just do the next bit, and then go to bed." Next thing I knew, I was all done. But I think you can see where things went from here. I hope.

(I was going to make another and take more pictures, but the week sorta got out of hand, and I figured you might want to try making one yourself before the 4th, so I'm putting this out there anyway.)

After the pants, paint the jacket base, leaving the center bit white for his shirt (I just left that as-is, didn't paint anything). I used a very dark blue called Goodnight Blue. I really used the sketched lines here as my guide, just tried to hold the brush steady while I filled in. Usually, I'd paint along the edges of the area first, and then slopped paint across the rest of it. (No, really, you can see my sloppy brush-strokes everywhere.)

If you work fast enough, you can probably make the lines for the sleeves with a toothpick in the wet paint of the jacket, which should produce the effect of pale blue lines. I wasn't fast enough, so instead, I mixed white with a touch of the blue, and "painted" them on with a toothpick. I then cleaned up the lines by painting more dark blue paint over it where it went wonky.

Paint the black line of the belt, but leave the buckle for later.
Paint the flat heart black, on both sides, and set it aside to dry.

Paint the hands, using flesh-tone. I thought this would be hard, and I hadn't sketched them in. It was easy. I let the width of the brush dictate the thumb area, and then did a sort of elongated half-circle for the rest of the fingers/hand. You don't have to be terribly precise, because next you paint the cuff, and that will cover up any weirdness between the jacket/sleeves and hands. But if you're nervous about messing it up, practice painting a hand shape on some paper first. Let the hands dry before you paint on the cuffs.
Paint on the cuffs with white. Be sure you stay within the sleeve lines so it looks realistic.

After the hands and cuffs were totally dry, I used a toothpick to paint the belt buckle. You could use a finer paint brush, I just didn't want to get one out, and the toothpick was already right there. I used silver for mine, but you can use any metalic color. Or, you could draw it on with a metalic marker, if you have one.

Now for the face. Dot the eyes with black paint using the end of your brush or a toothpick. They should sit roughly in the center of the face, about 1/2" above his shirt. Mine are a little tilted, but I decided I didn't mind.
Use your fine point Micron (or other) black pen to draw the rest of the facial features. If you mess up (I did), paint over it with the skin color and start again. Nobody has to know. Again, if you're nervous, draw some practice faces on paper.

Blush the cheeks using a 1/2" stencil brush and rosey-color paint. You want the brush to be almost dry before you put it to the face. Tap it on a paper towel until it seems like there's not much paint left on it, then blush the cheeks. If you mess up, just paint over it, and try again. Or, you can use real blush, from your make-up kit, and a cotton swab or your finger. I didn't do that on this guy, but I often do use actual blush on craft projects.

For his hair, I snipped up a scrap of raffia into 1 1/2"-2" lengths, and hot glued them onto his head. You could use yarn, or whatever else you've got handy. It doesn't matter much, because you're going to put a hat on him.

Fold up a tiny newspaper hat using a piece of newspaper measuring 2 5/8" x 3 1/2", and the instructions I found for you here. You can tuck in the corners like they do, but I didn't.

Glue the hat to his head, using hot glue, and squish down the raffia hair a bit.

Glue the heart base to the bottom of the egg using tacky glue. The pointy end goes at the back, and the top of the heart shape makes his feet.

Hot glue the flag pick to one of his hands.

Now, the one I was using for a model didn't have a bow, but I think he used to, so I wanted to put one on mine. I used a 3" piece of 1/4" wide ribbon, tied it into a bow, and trimmed the ends at an angle. Hot glue that just under his chin.

Ta Da!

He's all ready to wave his flag while he watches the parade!

Clothes of Desperation

2011-06-27T18:51:00.000-06:00

MMJ day 25, threw on one of my summer dresses, but realized it would be a bit of a trick to wear this out IKEA shopping without exposing parts of myself, should I forget I'm a lady and bend straight over instead of gracefully bending my knees, so I threw on some shop-bought jeans as well.

Not my personal favorite look. But the dress is super-comfy. Made from the same pattern as my basic black dress, S7586. I could make this dress a hundred times over - it's just that kind of dress.

Day 26, and I feel like Barbie came to visit and left me some of her clothes.

This is a skirt (M3296) I nearly got rid of once, because it's not particularly flattering on me, I don't have the right slip for it, and it goes all the way up to mid-thigh when I sit down. And then I kept it because I realized the wrinkles don't show. Sometimes I wonder what is wrong with me.

Made the earrings worn for both days, but I didn't take close-ups. You'll just have to take my word for it.

All My Chickens, Week 22, "Be Proud" Rooster

2011-06-27T16:30:00.001-06:00

Back to stitching again, and another free pattern from Palette Primitives, Be Proud Rooster pillow.