My Taylor Made

Princess Dress, Pattern Testers Needed

2012-01-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

Time to test this gorgeous dress pattern!! It has been a favorite in our home. Both my daughter and my niece have one, and they don't like to take them off. They feel like a princess. Every time my daughter wears her dress, she has to find sparkly jewelry to wear with it.

Dress pattern comes in 2 separate patterns. One pattern has sizes 1-4 and the other has sizes 5-8.

The top of the dress wraps over each other, with a mock sleeve. The top pattern pieces have a slight curve to give a cute little cap over the shoulders.

Full round twirl skirt with a fun ruffle layer underneath that can add a little pop of color or not even add this if you desire a more simple dress. Skirt has small bunching all around to make the dress feel like Princess Bell in Beauty and the Beast.

I am needing 2 people to test this pattern for me. I would love to have one for each pattern sizing. If you would like to test this please leave me a comment below and let me know which pattern sizes you would be willing to test. If you would like an extra point in the drawing, please leave a comment on facebook or twitter and leave me the link to see it (I would appreciate your help in telling people about my shop). Please leave me a way to contact you if you win!!!

Here's the deal. You get the pattern for free. I only ask that you are able to sew the bag within a week of me emailing it to you, and give me any comments or suggestions you may have.

Contest will end at midnight, on Tuesday, January 24th.

Don't forget about Crafty Lil Fox's deal. Ends January 31st!

Princess Dress Just In Time For Christmas

2011-12-19T12:33:00.000-08:00

I just finished working on my newest pattern. I am so thrilled about this dress. It is truly made for a princess. The pictures I have here are not the best because I had to secretly get the picture. I made 2 for Christmas gifts for my daughter and niece. As soon as the beautiful models see their dresses, I will provide you with better pictures. These pictures don't do the dress justice on how pretty they turned out.

I am not yet needing pattern testers for this dress because of the busy time of year. I thought I would share it with you though so you can get ready. I would love to get your opinion on a time that would be best to post the drawing to test this. A couple days after Christmas or should I wait until after the new year. You let me know!

If any of you are interested in this pattern before Christmas let me know.

Some of my Christmas Favorites

2011-12-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year! Year by year we will add more traditions in our home, and last year I added all three of these recipes to that. Merry Christmas to all of you, and I hope that your holidays are wonderful!!

Feta Salad

12 oz mixed salad greens(I used fresh)

2 fresh pears, cubed or sliced

1/2lb. fetta cheese, crumbled

1 c. craisins

1 c. camelized pecans - pour 1/3c. white sugar and 1 c. pecan pieces into sauce pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar melts and becomes sticky and light brown. Watch Carefully! Remove nuts immediately to a plate to cool.

Dressing -

1/2 c. red onion

1c. sugar

2 tsp. Dijon Mustard

1tsp. salt

2/3c. white vinegar

2c. veggie oil

3 Tblsp. poppy seeds

Mix 1st 6 ingredients in a blender, stir in poppy seeds at the end.

Lemon Water

1 Tbsp. lemon extract

1 Tbsp. citric acid (get at the pharmacy, sometimes they will need to order it in)

3 c. sugar

5 qts. water

lots of ice

If you can't find citric acid, "true lemon" crystalized lemon substitute, you will have to use 3 times the amount, you can also add "real lemon" concentrate.

MIX

This was fun to make, and I got the recipie from my Family Fun magazine.

Gingerbread Trifle

click on the picture for the link to the recipe with Family Fun.

Merry Christmas to all of you. Thank you for all the support you have given my blog.

I would love to know a tradition of yours this time of year, please leave a comment and share.

Digital Designs Giveaway

2011-12-08T07:31:00.001-08:00

Another giveaway!!

My little sis, has just started her own Etsy shop, Digital Designs. I am always amazed with her, she is just so talented. Years ago, our parents had bought both of us a sewing machine for Christmas. We were both taking lessons. Tiffany used hers for only a little while, but she didn't enjoy it. Tiff has always been creative, so now she takes fantastic pictures (which I think she needs to sell some on Etsy), and now digital art. I was lucky to have her design my sewing pattern front page.

Tiffany is giving away her most popular Digital Print, Monster Madness. My oldest son's favorite is the 1 eyed monster, and my daughters is the purple.

Make sure to stop by and check out Tiff's facebook page and website for her pictures. They are gorgeous!

To win this addorable Clip Art -

please leave me a way to contact you in your comment, you must be a follower of my blog.

For 1 extra point for each of these ways -

you can follow my blog

Please support Tiff of Etsy and like her shop

Like me on facebook and twitter

And for 5 extra points if you blog or facebook about this and leave me a link to see!

Giveaway will end next Thursday night at midnight. December 15th.

Don't forget the deal you get with Crafty Lil Fox, check out my giveaways page!

Re-purposed Block Stocking Hangers

2011-12-03T14:44:00.001-08:00

I have been wanting some stocking hangers for a long time now. Every year we end up putting our stocking under the tree until Christmas Eve. Then the kids play with them, and run off and scatter them all over the house. It drives me crazy to pick them up all the time.

I can never decide on the stocking hangers that I want. Or the ones I fall in love with are kinda expensive. So I thought I could re-purpose some blocks. These blocks had some cute saying on them, but they never matched anything I had so they just sat in the closet.

I was feeling crafty! I love those days!

Here is how I made them:

I used some blocks I already had. If you want to make these and don't have any pre-cut blocks, go buy a 4 x 4 at the local lumber store. Then cut into squares.

I lightly sanded down my blocks so they were not rough.

I painted with craft paint the entire block. I only used 1 coat of paint, but you may want 2.

I found a cute font on the computer at this 1001 free fonts. I used Angelic War.

I typed the Christmas words that I wanted. Joy, Noel, Peace, Love, Faith

Make sure the font size will fit onto a 3 1/2" square.

Print onto Christmas colored paper.

Cut out to size of block.

Mod Podge the paper onto the front of the block.

When dry, Mod Podge over top of the paper.

When dry, lightly sand the edges of the block around the paper.

Use an antiquing stamp or stain around the edges of the paper.

Screw some small hooks into the front of the block.

It was so quick and easy. I got it all done in one day, as I was running around doing other things as well. Since we don't have a fireplace to hang our stockings on, I thought I would hang them on our shelf that usually holds family pictures. Now all I need to do is make some matching stockings for all of us. If you have any cute stockings you have seen online, please let me know. I have been looking on Pintrest and found a few.

These are not the best instructions, no pictures. So if you want to make these and need some help, send me a note!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Don't forget about the great deal offered to you by Crafty Lil Fox. And stay tuned I will be having another giveaway next week!

Win Win with Crafty Lil' Fox

2011-12-02T11:08:00.001-08:00

I feel like a whole new person!! I am sure you have noticed the new look of my blog. I was so lucky to have found Melissa with Crafty Lil' Fox. She has totally revamped my blog, and I think it looks amazing. the blog now has pages to find things better. The colors are so light and fresh, I am so excited! I wish I could say that I helped come up with the ideas of how the blog turned out, but I can't. I owe all the credit to Melissa for doing such a fabulous job. She really pinned me to a T, with my style!

If you stop by the Crafty Lil' Fox blog, you will find some great tutorials, freebies, look through Melissa's portfolio, and so much more. Don't forget to stop by and favorite her on

Etsy

Facebook

Twitter

Here is a little bit about Melissa in her own words -

I'm a craft addict, web designer, copywriter and world traveller! I started Crafty Lil Fox to share tips and hints for selling online, marketing small and home based business online, using creative blog designs and successfully building craft and handmade businesses. When I'm not creating beautiful blogs, my favourite crafts are crochet and sewing and I'm a bit obsessed with beautiful homes.

I am so excited to tell you that you can have a great blog too! Melissa is offering all of my readers $50 off any custom blog design and 25% off of any orders from her Etsy shop. You just need to mention that you saw the offer on my blog. Everyone is a winner with this one! This offer will last through the rest of December and all of January.

Winner of Made Just Wright Giveaway

2011-12-01T11:58:00.001-08:00

We have a winner!!

Shannon Foust

Thank you for entering. I gave your information to Andi, and she will be contacting you.

Make sure to come back tomorrow for another lucky win!! I am guessing you have noticed the changes in my blog! This is a hint as to what you can get tomorrow.

Made Just Wright Giveaway

2011-11-23T17:48:00.001-08:00

You have heard me say it before, that I Love the chance to get to know other people on Etsy and other creative sites! I am lucky to say this time though, that I have known Andi with Made Just Wright for a while now.

We were so lucky to have met when we both had moved to the desert in Arizona, to support our husbands jobs. If you have never been to the hot part of Arizona, you are pretty lucky. It would get pretty hot! During the summer the temperature would get up to 130 degrees easily. Thank heavens for pools!!! I actually did love it there. We met some to the best people there, and I had a tan almost year round! Anyway, a bunch of us moms would try to get together on occasion and create!

Andi and I both had tiny baby girls that needed some extra flair. So we made bows!! Andi is a pro, she makes the cutest bows. And one luck winner will get to win 2 crochet headbands, 1 large flower, and 1 bow.

How cute HUH!! If you want to win here is how-

To enter the drawing please leave me a way to contact you in your comment, you must be a follower of my blog.

For 1 extra point for each of these ways -

you can follow my blog

Follow Andi's blog

Like me on facebook and twitter

And for 5 extra points if you blog or facebook about this and leave me a link to see!

Giveaway will end next Wednesday night at midnight. November 30th.

Don't forget to check out her blog to see some of the other cute things she makes, here are a few of my favorites!

If you are in a giveaway mood, make sure to stop by Barefoot By the Sea's Blog, Jessica from Posies in My Pocket has more giveaways going on there!

Posies In My Pocket Winner!!

2011-11-22T09:14:00.001-08:00

We have a winner!!!

Waasabi!

I will give your email to Jessica and she will get with you.

Thank you everyone for your support with this giveaway, it was a ton of fun. I will be posting another wonderful giveaway tomorrow! So stay tuned.

Posies in My Pocket Giveaway

2011-11-14T08:19:00.001-08:00

Another fun giveaway!! I am so excited to do this giveaway for you. I have loved Jessica's shops and blog for a long time now. She definitely has one of those blogs that are worth checking in on as often as you can. Jessica always has some fun ideas for recipes, really fun giveaways all the time, and some super cute posts about life and her kiddos.

Jessica is the proud owner of Posies In My Pocket, which is an accessory shop full of vintage inspired goodies. She handcrafts each piece with nickel free metal. Jessica offers headbands, hairpins, earrings, rings, statement necklaces and more. She crafts with a variety of materials including vintage fabric, resin, wool felt and more.

If if that wasn't exciting enough is also has a sister shop, Posie Hill Farm, which has vintage inspired items for the home including cupcake stands and cake plates.

Now for the exciting giveaway! Jessica is giving away this beautiful pair of Rosy Red Earring and a hairpin set.

Here are a couple more pictures from her shops of some of my favorite items!

Jessica is also willing to offer a 15% off coupon code to one winner when they convo her on etsy with the code 1000 SALES!!!

So you have the opportunity to win now and win in one week!!

To enter the drawing please leave me a way to contact you in your comment, you must be a follower of my blog.

For 1 extra point for each of these ways -

you can follow my blog

Follow Jessica's blog

Like me on facebook and twitter

And for 5 extra points if you blog or facebook about this and leave me a link to see!

Giveaway will end next Monday night at midnight. November 21st.

Winners of Pattern Package Giveaway

2011-11-12T08:32:00.001-08:00

Hooray!! We have the 1st winners of our celebration giveaway!

Mattsmom

MamaLusco

Andi

Congrats ladies. I am so excited for you! I will contact you and get your email, be thinking of the 5 patterns you want.

Come back and check the next giveaways, and win something from some fantastic shops. I will post the next giveaway on Monday morning!

1st Giveaway

2011-11-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

Ok, here is our first giveaway for my celebration! I thought it would be best to start with a giveaway from my shop! Thank you again for all of you that have been wonderful supporters of my patterns. Thank you to all of you that have tested my patterns and those who have been willing to and haven't won yet. I have a couple new patterns that I will bring out this month as well. We will have another dress just in time for the holidays, overall pattern, and I am hoping to get a new purse pattern done as well.

Alright, enough chit chat! Here is the giveaway!

3 Lucky readers will win my 5 Pattern Package. You choose any 5 of my patterns and you get them for free!

here is a link to my shop so you can look through the patterns and find the ones you would like.

My Taylor Made

This is how you can gain points to win!

1. Leave me a comment saying you follow my blog with your email

2. Leave me a comment saying you following on facebook www.facebook.com/mytaylormade

3. Leave me a comment saying you follow me on Twitter

4. And if you would like an easy 5 points, please make a blog post about this post, facebook it, or twitter it. When you do this tell everyone that you sent them, have them let me know who sent them to my blog and you can get even one more point in the drawing!

3 Winners!

10 Entries in the drawing are possible!

Drawing will end a week from today on Friday, November 11th at midnight.

Come Join my Celebration

2011-11-02T16:02:00.000-07:00

I hit

sales in my shop!

I want to celebrate with you! I will be hosting some giveaways here on my blog over the next month or so!!

Keep checking back throughout the month to see what you can win.

I will post my 1st giveaway in the morning.

If you are interested, or know of anyone interested in doing a giveaway please let me know.

Hiding Stains, free tutorial

2011-10-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

More shirts have been stained in this house!!! I hate having to buy new shirts when a perfectly good shirt has a small stain. So I came up with a solution!! A printed T-shirt.

I wanted to share this tutorial with you to help save your sanity as well! It is actually a ton of fun to do! And I feel so thrifty! This is my second try at this, the first time I spayed the shirt it didn't work out. But no worries, that shirt is used for jammies now! I actually have 2 shirts at the end for you to see the difference.

Supplies needed:

T-shirt or fabric of choice

Freezer Paper(found at grocery store)

Cardboard(I didn't have any on hand so I used more freezer paper)

Fabric Paint(I used a spray the first time and it leaked through so I used a paint brush the second time and it was wonderful)

Here is a picture of the shirt I used. With the stains included.

Step 1:

Draw and cut out the image that you would like on the shirt, using the freezer paper. If you are not an artist no worries, there are plenty of clip art images out there that you could use. Make sure when you are putting your image on the freezer paper that the wax side is down.

Step 2:

Iron the freezer paper onto your shirt. Make sure you have it on really well, if not the paint will leak through and your image will be smeared. I added some of the extra pieces of freezer paper to cover the other areas of the shirt, but if you would like you can just tuck this underneath when spraying.

Step 3:

Before you paint your image you will need to add some cardboard or more freezer paper in between both layers of the shirt. This prevents the image from leaking to the back side.

Step 4:

Make sure you follow the directions on the bottle of paint that you have, they will help this to be successful for you. Spay or paint your image, making sure not to use too much paint. Let dry for at least an hour before taking off the freezer paper. My paint said not to wash for 48 hours.

Now you have a shirt to enjoy!! I have 2 shirts shown because the one with the bird print I used the spray on and the spay leaked so I added the pink strip across the top to hide the leak spots. I think it turned out great! The shirt with the hearts was the shirt that I used only a paint brush on and it worked out really well.

I would love any suggestions any of you may have on the spray paint. I love the idea of using it instead of the paint brushes, but I don't know how to get it to not leak.

The Fox, Made it to the front page of Etsy

2011-08-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, Etsy has the chance to put Treasury lists together of some of our favorites. I recently put this treasury together, and it made it to the front page of Etsy!! How exciting!! I was so thrilled when I woke up this morning!!

KyandKin

2011-08-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

I was very lucky to have Heather with kyandkin test the Olivia Dress pattern for me. She is absolutly amazing, so talented. Please take the time to read her bio here and then go check out her shop!! Here is a picture of the Olivia Dress that Heather made. I love how she used the white for the collar, cuffs and belt! Beautiful!!

kyandkin is a small business that creates handmade children’s clothes and necessities. I have always loved the soft colors of baby & children’s clothes and the free flowing comfortable feeling of clothes, and have put the two together to create kyandkin.

I live with the idea of quality over quantity, and take time with each item as if my own children would wear them. The pieces are sewn completely with a machine and have zig zag stitching for secure seams in place of a serger for that extra durability and handmade touch.

I started kyandkin with the inspiration from my 2 beautiful daughters, Kylie Rainn and Kinley River. I am a military wife of an amazing husband who serves as a Riverine in the Navy. My family is absolutely everything to me and they have inspired me to start something that would last forever, something small...growing into something big...

I wanted to make clothes for my girls and other children that were something a little different from the norm, something that they are comfortable in and something that they can run and play freely while still being able to look stylish. I always fall in love with particular styles that are way over priced and can never afford them, and due to the fact that children grow so fast, I always thought it would be a waste of money…so with that in mind, I started to make clothes that I would’ve loved to wear as a child and be good on the pockets as well.

Most of my supplies are either from local shops in town, online fabric stores or, my favorite, other etsy shops, to help other etsy owners build their businesses as well. I love the diverse options, overwhelming creativity and friendly people that I have talked to through etsy, just over the last few months. It means so much to me to give back to others, and watch sales grow for shops trying to make it as well.

I had sewn for years, and had started with selling handbags to friends and family a few years ago…but I knew that there was something else that I was even more interested in but just couldn’t put my finger on it…until I had my second little girl. I had finally found something that I LOVE to put my time and effort into, something that I just can’t get enough of. The time I put into my shop is time that I love to put aside, something that’s freeing, a little “outlet” of mine where I can relax and take in my day piece by piece. I use every opportunity to get a little work done, whether it’s early in the morning before my girls wake up, during a nap or after they’re fast asleep. My business is a dream that I can’t stop thinking about, which is what I always wanted for myself.

Make sure to visit KyandKin. She has such beautiful and well made items in her shop. She is truely talented! Also visit her on facebook and leaver her a note!

Olivia Shirt Dress, Pattern Tester

2011-07-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Time to get ready for school!! As much as I am not too excited about it, I have to jump in a get going. So here is my 1st dress pattern that will help welcome us back to school, the Olivia Shirt Dress. This dress is perfect for those girls who don't want to wear pants, and it gives them that preppy girl look!! The dress comes with an option of long sleeves or short sleeves. Belt and belt loops. Buttons all the way up the front with a cute yoke around the neck line. Pattern comes in sizes 2 - 7 for the little girls.

Long sleeve option -

short sleeve option -

I am needing 2 people to test this pattern for me. If you would like to test this please leave me a comment below. If you would like an extra point in the drawing, please leave a comment on facebook or twitter and leave me the link to see it (I would appreciate your help in telling people about my shop). Please leave me a way to contact you if you win!!!

Here's the deal. You get the pattern for free. I only ask that you are able to sew the bag within a week of me emailing it to you, and give me any comments or suggestions you may have. This is very important.

Contest will end at midnight, on Wednesday, August 3rd.

T-Shirt Skirt FREE Tutorial

2011-06-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

I started looking at my daughters old shirts one day. She had so many shirts that either had a stain right up front or I didn't love enough for her to wear more than once or twice. Those of you who come to my blog often know how much she loves skirts!! So we decided she needed a new skirt!! And I wanted to share with you how we made this skirt. It was simple, fun, quick, and didn't cost a penny to make. Give it a try, you will love the skirt, it washes great with no wrinkles and is perfect for play. No serger needed, and no need to add an elastic to the waistline!!!

Start out going through your closet and pulling out 5 or 6 old shirts. Notice that I have used a tank top, polo shirt, and basic t's. You will also need an old pair of leggings. If you don't have leggings, any old pair of pants would be just as cute!!

Cut just underneath the sleeves on all the shirts. Don't worry that some will be taller than others. Throw away the top. I am using this ruler, and it definitely is wonderful, but don't worry if you don't have one!

Cut off the side seams. Throw away the side seams. We are keeping the hem of the shirt on, so make sure not to cut it off!

Cut into 3 even rectangles, with the shirts hem at the bottom of each.

Lay out all the rectangles from all your shirts into how you would like them for the skirt. Some of the shirts are taller than the others, this is just fine, we will fix this later.

Starting at the shirts hemline, sew 1/8" seam allowance up the side of each rectangle. Sew with the ugly side of the fabrics together, making the seam show on the outside of the skirt.

This is what it will look like as you start to add more rectangles together. Keep going until you sew the first rectangle to the last, making a circle.

Cut the leggings somewhere above the crotch. This is up to you where you want to cut, the main difference it will make is the length it adds to the skirt. Throw away the bottoms.

To get the bottom of the skirt ready for sew to the top, cut the extra lengths from the rectangles off the top. This will make a nice edge to sew to the top of the leggings. You are not cutting the edge that has all the original hems from the shirts.

Make a gathering stitch at the top. To do this set your sewing machine at the longest stitch length you have available. Then sew 1/8" away from the edge then again at 5/8" away from the edge, all the way around the top. Make sure not to back stitch at the beginning or to stitch over top the same stitches. Keep your threads at the beginning of the stitch and the end of the stitch long. You will be pulling these strings to make the gather soon.

Separate the legging top and the skirt into fourths and place pins.

Pull the top threads of the gathering stitches. Do not pull the bottom, just the top. If you pull the bottom and the top you will end up breaking a thread and have to start over.

Match the pins that you placed in the leggings and the skirt together so you have the fourths evenly placed. Make sure the fabrics have the ugly sides facing each other so the seam will show on the outside of the skirt. Then play with the gathers to make the skirt the same size as the leggings. Place a lot of pins. The more the pins the better, they will save a lot of frustration!

Sew as close to 1/8" seam allowance as you can around the edge. Then pull out the gathering stitches so they don't show on your skirt.

Yey you are done, and it looks fantastic!! New skirt at no extra cost!!!

Melanie Bag, Needing Pattern Tester

2011-06-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Melanie Bag!!

New pattern needing a tester. I had a very good friend of mine ask if I would be interested in making this pattern, and of course I said YES. This is such a fun and go everywhere bag. I have been using mine since the day I finished it. The straps are long so it can lay up over one shoulder and lay on the other hip. I love that when I am running after my kids, my purse isn't falling off my shoulder (It's GREAT!)

This bag has a button and loop closure.

There's plenty of pockets inside lining both sides of the bag. Take everything with you, and still be able to find it all! Pockets for cell phones, pens, keys, lip stick, and more.

When it came to time for me to name the bag, I just had to name it after my good friend. So thanks again Melanie for the idea, and for letting me use your name!

I am needing 1 more person to test this pattern for me. If you would like to test this please leave me a comment below. If you would like an extra point in the drawing, please leave a comment on facebook or twitter and leave me the link to see it (I would appreciate your help in telling people about my shop).

Good Pattern for you beginners out there. Very few pattern pieces, and steps.

Here's the deal. You get the pattern for free. I only ask that you are able to sew the bag within a week of me emailing it to you, and give me any comments or suggestions you may have.

Contest will end at midnight, on Thursday, June 16th.

Jack and Jill Winner

2011-06-06T15:42:00.000-07:00

What a crazy last couple weeks!! I got a virus on my computer, the second in the past month. I have a wonderful neighbor who is kinda an expert when it comes to these things. So, he fixed it, he brought it back. We worked on the computer for one day trying to catch up on everything we missed. Then it got a virus again!! So frustrating. It is now fixed. Life is now somewhat caught back up.

I did have a winner for the Jack and Jill Romper!! Thank you Jamie for sewing this for me!!

Jamie is a stay at home mommy of a 3 year old and infant twins, and wife to a great guy. She enjoys cooking, sewing, quilting, and knitting for her kiddos and people she loves. Go check out Jamie's blog find out how to mother a toddler and twins, keep her sanity through crafts and live happily and healthy on a budget. While pregnant with her twins she got a crazy urge to create things and just wanted to try different types of crafts. She loves crafts that involve some kind of fiber-sewing, knitting, folding fabric flowers. After the twins were born she decided to stay at home because good child care cost more than she brought in each month. So she created her etsy shop (www.etsy.com/shop/jlchatt) mostly to cover the cost of all the fabric and yarn that she loves to buy. Jamie has so many things to see on her blog. Tutorials, sewing projects, recipes, and so much more! She is an amazing woman, and fun to follow along with as she is definatly staying sane with raising her children. Also go to her Etsy shop that will be re-opening by mid July!!! Check it out!! My computer wouldn't let me add the cute picture that Jamie sent me of her Romper, so here is a cute picture she sent me of the Hailey Wrap pattern!

Jack and Jill Bubble

2011-05-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

It is time again for a new pattern tester contest!!! This is a fun new pattern for boys and for girls. So the name had to go both ways. That is why I chose to call it the Jack and Jill Bubble Romper.

The Jack and Jill Bubble can be sewn as a basic bubble romper. Or a pocket can be added to the front. And of course for those frilly little girls, we gotta have some ruffles!! Next week I will tell you about a new friend of mine who suggested this pattern to me, Jenn. She will be testing the pattern as well, so this time I will only be needing 1 more tester.

Contest for pattern testers will begin right now. Ending next Wednesday night, May 11th at midnight. I am needing 1 person that is willing to sew this pattern with in one week of me emailing to them. I will give the pattern to you for free, in exchange for any comments or critics that you can give.

Toasted Coconut

2011-04-26T14:21:00.000-07:00

I want to tell you about my newest sponsor for my blog! Emily from the Toasted Coconut as such a cute shop, you will love it! And of course a fun name! Inspired by her LOVE for coconut. Let me tell you a little about her and then please make sure to stop by and say hi to her.

Besides keeping busy as a wife and mom to 2 little boys, Emily is inspired by vintage styles and makes beautiful accessories and more.

As soon as Emily started creating her one-of-a-kind pieces, everyone came up to her wanting their own.

This bracelet is my absolute favorite!! I have already warned my husband that I want it for my birthday that is just around the corner. Emily, he better be emailing you soon!!

When you check out Emily's blog, be sure to look up the Ring Holder Tutorial, it is fabulous!!

Go check out the Toasted Coconut shop, then go to her blog and become a follower, then find Emily on facebook!!

Will? Identity Theft? What To Do?

2011-04-15T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have a fantastic product review that I want to tell you about!! Mike and I have had this Pre-Paid Legal membership for at least 6 years, and it has paid off so much for us. I am so happy about the piece of mind it continues to give me!! Here are a couple recent stories for you of how much it has helped me.

Back in November I had just taken my son on a bowling trip with his school. When we drove to pick up my other kids afterwards, we were pulled over for speeding. It was one of those moments you don't even realize you were speeding, and you got caught! It all happened so fast as I turned the corner, and must have sped up too fast. Well I got caught, and I was so ticked off about it. This all happened in a school zone. I don't know if it is the same for all of you out there, but here, we get a triple fine for it being a school zone. Complete bummer!!! I didn't have to money to pay $180.00 for a stupid ticket. And I didn't want the extra points on my ticket. So I have been super lucky to be a Pre-Paid Legal Member. So I called my Law Firm and asked for advice and help. They were WONDERFUL!! They had me plead not guilty, and then I didn't have to do anything else. An attorney went to court for me (I was home with my kiddos!), and he asked for the judge to go easy on me or what ever it is they say. I ended up only having to pay the cost of a regular speeding ticket of $60.00 and I didn't have any points to mess up my record. AMAZING! I was so thrilled to have this all go so well.

About a month, maybe 2 months ago, I had a legal question about one of my sewing patterns. I was unsure what to do, so what did I do?! I called my providing Law Firm again! They sat on the phone with me through a couple phone calls, took some emails from me, and answered every question I had. I honestly don't know how much this would have cost if I were to have called any other attorney out there? But for my piece of mind this was FABULOUS! I am at ease and LOVE it!

To top off my wonderful mood with all of the membership that I have, I also got a will for free in the cost of my membership!! How nice is that. I don't have to worry about the state or someone taking my kids from my family if both Mike and I die. How comforting.

I felt like I should tell you all about this. Some of you may have heard of it before, and some of you probably have no idea what I am talking about. But I would really encourage you all to look into it for yourselves. I honestly am loving my piece of mind. We have used our membership so many times, I would bore you with all of them.

This membership also helps cover us in Identity Theft. I had my purse stolen 4 years ago, and panicked. Luckily I have this protection to help me make sure no one has ever taken my identity!! How WONDERFUL!!!

I could keep going on about how helpful this has been for me, but I would hope that you would look into it for yourselves. If anything, for the WILL. Go to this link and check this out for yourselves!! My husband is who you would contact if you have any questions! He is also looking for people to work with who are willing to work hard!

http://www.greatworkplan.com/mikephillipp/

Dragons2Daisies

2011-03-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

I am excited to tell you about the other winner to test the Hailey Wrap for me. Here is a picture of Dragons2Daisies Hailey Wrap.

This is such a fun way for me to get to know such creative people. Sarah with Dragons2daisies is so talented!! Thanks to a late night of sewing, or should a say an early morning, Sarah was very dedicated to get this sewn. Thank you Sarah!

She currently makes children's clothing up to size 8, super hero capes, diaper clutches and re-usable lunch bags. She does all this as she is a WAHM, who is inspired by her children. Sarah is absolutely amazing. You really need to check out her shop to see how much she has done and can do. And you have heard me say it before and I am saying it again, her talent shows through her pictures. I was just amazed when I looked through all Dragons2daisies pictures on facebook. So don't forget to fan her!! Here are a few pictures that I loved of her work!!

Kydan Rae Kustoms, Thank you, and SALE!

2011-03-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

A wonderful Pattern Tester again!! I feel so lucky!! Thank you Heather with Kydan Rae Kustoms.

This is a picture of the Haily Wrap that Heather tested, cute fabric, huh! And model!

Heather is proud to be a wife and stay at home mom of 2 wonderful children. She has been sewing for 13 years and loving it. being a seamstress myself, I love to see quality from others. Heather definitely has some wonderful things in her shop. And it shows how much she pays attention to detail, from just looking at the seams, the fact that she pressed her items, and Wonderful pictures.

With some of the cutest models, you need to head over to her shop on Etsy!

And fan her on facebook!!

Here are some pictures from Kydan Rae Kustoms

CUTE HUH!!

And if you didn't notice, we decided on a name. Thank you to all of you for your thoughts! Thank you
dragons2daisies for the idea. We chose to call it a wrap, and then I had to name it after my beautiful niece. So that is why we call it the Hailey Wrap.
For the next week the pattern will sale for $4.50 instead of $6.50. So grab it quick while it is on sale. Thanks again to all of you who were willing to test it as well, I will have more patterns coming so please check back.

Contest Winners, Skirts, Websites to See, and a SALE

2011-02-21T21:09:00.000-08:00

I had my husband draw names for me today for the Cape pattern!! I will blog about the winners of the pattern testing soon! I sent emails to the winners, and hope to hear from them soon. As far as the name, FANTASTIC IDEAS!! I can't decide, so I will keep you posted on which one I go with. I will have to get the girls together to choose between the ideas. I can't do it alone, I love them all!

Now I want to tell you about my newest pattern! I had the chance to make this pattern inspired by and for Frances with Designing Twining. It was so much fun to work with her. We have alot in common with each other, and had a blast working together. I love to brainstorm with people!! Frances has a fantastic website, go check it out. She has been sewing for over 10 years, has fantastic cutomer service skills(I should know!), and she LOVES what she does. Frances teaches sewing lessons, and sewing custom clothing for everyone in the family. She is there for you!

Below are some pictures from Designing Twining website. There are so many more things to see, go to her site and check them out!

Last but not least! For the next week only, this skirt will be on sale to help welcome it out! Instead of paying the regular price of $6.50 for my patterns, you will pay only $4.50! This is only for one week, I will take the sale off Monday the 28th in the morning. Go to my shop and get it now!

Thank you to everyone who was willing to sew the Cape pattern. This was the Best turnout for one of my pattern contests. I was so excited about that, THANK YOU! My husband thinks that I should have more people test the next pattern.

CLOSED Cape? Needing a New Name and PATTERN TESTERS

2011-02-12T21:53:00.000-08:00

PATTERN TESTERS!! This is one pattern that has been on my mind for a long time now, but had to be put on the back burner because of other things. My daughter has worn it only this one time, and didn't want to even take it off. She thinks it is fantastic.
Coat has a ruffle collar with 2 button closure. Slits in the side for arms to come out or stay inside. Fully lined with batting in the middle to stay warm.

This Coat, Cape, Cloak, I am not sure what to call it yet, needs a name and pattern testers. Anyone, whether you sew on not, please come up with a cuter way to say cape!! I am looking for name ideas so give me what you got!

And of course I want testers!! I will have 2 winners again!!! You get the pattern for free, and it is sent to your email address. I just need the pattern completed within 1 week of you receiving it, and all the critics you are willing to give. I will end the contest at midnight in one week, on Sunday, February 20th. Leave me a way to get a hold of you in your comments, and I will let you know if you are one of the winners.

Mama Lusco Handmade

2011-02-08T07:48:00.000-08:00

I want to tell you about Angie with Mama Lusco Handmade! Angie was one of the wonderful ladies who tested the Pleated Purse for me. It was amazing to me the feedback that I received from her. She is definately talented and knows what she is doing. Amazing.
Angie is a Believer, Daughter, Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, Registered Nurse, Seamstress, Crafter, Housekeeper, Cook, Baker, Gardener, Reader, Keeper of the chickens, Usually sane Stay-at-home mom.
Here are a couple of things from her etsy shop, please drop in a give you some love. She has some really cute and fun earings in her shop right now. Angie also has a shop on Artfire, if you would prefer to shop that way. Stay updated through the Mama Lusco Handmade Blog, where giveaways are hosted and Angie loves to test patterns!

Angie, thanks for testing the pattern for me!!

Winner Winner!!

2011-01-28T14:15:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who was willing to sew the Pleated purse for me! I did have 2 winner, and I am a little slow announcing them. Angie with Mama Lusco, and Edna with Country Stitches. I will be blogging about these fabulous ladies coming soon to tell you about their shops!!

For those of you that are intersted on purchasing this pattern please check my shop next week!!

The Pleated Purse, Pattern Testers

2011-01-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I have had a new pattern. I thought for sure when school started for my kids I would have all the time in the world for a new pattern. I was wrong.

I actually made this purse a few months ago, but didn't get the pattern finished until now. I have loved the ruffle purse pattern I made over the summer and wanted another choice! So here it is. This purse has 3 pleats on the front with a panel at the top. I used an alternating fabric to add the piping look in the middle. Inside the purse there are pockets on both sides for keys, phones and all that small stuff.

I would love to have any one willing to try this pattern out for me. I have had only one person test my patterns, but I am thinking it would be a better idea if I had 2 people test it. So I will have 2 winners!!! You get the pattern for free, and it is sent to your email address. I just need the pattern completed within a week of you receiving it, and all the critics you are willing to give. I will end the contest at midnight in one week, on Friday, January 21st.

So Talented!!

2010-12-27T12:46:00.000-08:00

I have been so buys lately, with such random stuff. Thank you to all you that are faithful and keep checking up on me! I am working on new patterns that will be fun for the winter and the spring. I will keep you posted and will be looking for Testers!

It is so fun to be able to catch up with old friends! Thanks to facebook, we can find so many old friends that we have lost contact with. Nicole and I went to BYU Idaho together, when it was called Ricks College. It was fun to find each other on Facebook!

You have to go over and check out her shop, Repent Industries by Nikkisic!! Nicole's shop has been open for a year. She is so talented and always loved fashion. Now she can do something about it, and she is doing fabulous. Her scarfs are so BEAUTIFUL!! I LOVE THEM!!

And to top it off, she is a fantastic photographer!!

Check out her shop at - http://www.etsy.com/shop/nikkisic?ref=pr_shop

And her blog - http://www.repentindustriesbynikkisic.blogspot.com/

Jocole has come to my rescue

2010-09-25T20:12:00.000-07:00

We all have very busy lives and sometimes don't even know what to do with them!! I hit a point shortly after this last pattern, and I definitely had put too much on my plate. So sorry for not posting for a while! But I have been so excited about this last pattern, the ruffle skirt. It is definitely a favorite skirt in our house!! Jodi Jean with Jocole is testing my pattern for me, and it will be out soon!! YEAH!!

I gotta tell you about Jodi, I think she is absolutely fabulous. I met Jodi through our Etsy shops. And I can definitely tell you, she is as genuine as them come. We really hit it off when we met, we have quite a bit in common. We graduated from the same college, both young mom's, and have a huge love for sewing. Jodi also has some WONDERFUL patterns for sale. So please go check you her shop as well - http://www.etsy.com/shop/jocole. To top it off, she has such a fun blog that you will probably fall in love with. So many cute ideas!!
 
Jodi, Thanks again for testing my ruffle pattern!!

Pattern Tester for a Ruffle Skirt

2010-07-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

I just can't get over ruffles right now, I just have so much fun with them. Here is a new skirt that I need a pattern tester for. It is such a fun simple skirt. It is raised in the back to show a fun layer of ruffles. I had a hard time deciding whether to make this skirt in these fun colors, or in just some natural whites and creams. So I think I am going to have to make the natural color one as well. It was a ton of fun to make, and it is such a hit with the little girls!

I would love to have any one willing to try this pattern out for me. You get the pattern for free, and it is sent to your email address. I just need the pattern completed within a week of you receiving it, and all the critics you are willing to give. I will end the contest at midnight of Sunday, August 1st.

LiliBug Designs wins Girly Girl Romper Pattern

2010-07-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy week, but I do have a winner for the Girly Girl Romper Pattern Tester! Amanda from LiliBug Designs has fabric and ready to go!! Please take time to check out her shop on Etsy, SUPER CUTE!! You can also follow Amanda on Facebook. She is a huge crafter and makes some of the stinkin cutest bows I have seen. Here is a picture of one of her crocheted flowers, that I absolutely LOVE.

Thank you to all of you who put your names in the hat and were willing to sew my pattern. Keep posted, I have more coming. I have a stinkin cute skirt with ruffles on the bum, fun ruffle necked jacket, and another purse up my sleeves.

The Girly Girl Romper, Pattern Tester Needed

2010-07-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

I LOVE that the little rompers for girls are coming back in style. I think they are so stinkin cute. When I started to make this pattern, I had something totally different in mind. As I kept sewing it, I change things a ton, and this is what I can up with. I am so excited, this is the only way I am able to get my daughter to wear shorts. She has been strictly a skirt kinda girl, until now!!

I would love to have any one willing to try this pattern out for me. You get the pattern for free, and it is sent to your email address. I just need the pattern completed within a week of you receiving it, and all the critics you are willing to give. I will end the contest at midnight of Monday July 12th .

Newsboy Cap Winner

2010-06-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we have a winner for the Newsboy Cap!! Eunice Beshears from Cheeky and Choccy is going to sew the hat. Thank you Eunice. Here is a picture of one of her hats from her shop, that I am totally in love with. All of you out there who love patterns this one looks super cute!!

Newsboy Cap Pattern Tester!!

2010-06-21T12:08:00.000-07:00

It is time again, I have a new pattern that I am needing someone to test it out for me. The Newsboy Cap pattern fits head sizes 16" - 20". Pattern has full color photos to walk you through each step. The hat is fully lined with an elastic in the back to help hold it on. Little girls always have the funnest outfits and tutu's, why can't the boys look just as cute!!

I am needing any one willing to try this pattern out for me. You get the pattern for free, and it is sent to your email address. I just need the pattern completed within a week of you receiving it, and all the critics you are willing to give. I will end the contest at midnight of Friday June 25th.

Baseball Ice Cream Cake

2010-06-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

I don't think I have ever concidered myself a fantastic chef at all. But I definately love new recipies and any excuse to cook for family and friends. My baby boy just had a birthday, and I have tried to make something fun for each of them for their birthdays. My son loves playing with all of his balls, so my other kdis and I decided to make him a baseball cake. And of course, if you can add ice cream, why not! So with the guidance of my friend, my kids and I gave it a try. Check out my friend Sueann's recipie blog, it is fantastic!!! Here is an ice cream cake she made that was so cool looking!!

http://collectionofrecipes.blogspot.com/

Here is how I made mine, keep in mind I am no professional!

Ingredients and supplies:

1 box cake mix, your choice (I used Devil food)

21 boxes of ice cream, your choice (I used Mint Chocolate) - softened

Frosting (I made my own, I like the flavor the most)

Orange and black or brown food coloring

Round bowl

Cookie sheet

small samdwich bag

1. Bake the cake to package directions, in a large cookie sheet. Let cool.

2. With your round bowl, line the inside with saran wrap. (this I may have forgotten about with out Sueann's help.)

3. Cut cake into small pieces and line around the edge of the bowl.

4. Cover and freeze for at least 20 min, until cake is firm.

5. Add the softened ice cream to the bowl.

6. Cover and Freeze for at least 2 hours.

7. Flip cake over on serving plate, the saran wrap will help you pull the cake out.

8. Ice the cake with orange frosting, I had to set mine back in the freezer before step 9 for 20 min.

9. Using a meat clever (thank you Sueann for the idea!!!), pat at the frosting to make it look bumpy like a basket ball. Using a small sandwich bag filled with your brown or black frosting, make the lines on the basket ball.

So easy and so fun!!! Have fun if you give it a try!!

Thank you!

2010-06-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

I just finished leaving feedback to a few people who have purchased from my shop on Etsy. Every time I have left feedback, I have thought to myself how thankful I am for their support. Sometimes I feel like on the computer it is hard for us to fully express ourselves to others. In person we are able to show our appreciation on our faces. And I don't know if some of you other stay at home moms feel the same way. I tell my husband all the time that have become really bad at having adult conversations. I am much better with my kids, and I don't know where along the way I lost that, oops.

Any way, I just wanted to let all of you that follow my blog and support my shop, THANK YOU. Really, I am so thankful for all the support I have received from everyone. Some people started out as strangers and have become friends. How lucky are we to be able to get to know more people through all these creative links!! I am truly blessed! THANK YOU!!!
I am not so good at getting my own pictures but I thought it was a fitting smile for this post. Here is a cheesy smile for you!!

Pattern Tester winner!!

2010-06-02T12:35:00.001-07:00

Thanks to those who were willing to help test my sewing pattern for the purse. I will have more patterns I will need tested soon, so please come back to check in. Anna,w ho left me a message on facebook won! Congrats Anna, and thank you!!

Need Pattern Tester!!

2010-05-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

I have a new pattern that I have been working on today! My poor kiddos, I totally ignored them. I was so excited to work on this, and they were playing so well, oops.

I need your help, please leave me a comment and your email address if you would like to test my pattern. You get the pattern for free! Please get it done quickly and give me your HONEST feedback.

Leave a comment with your idea for a name for this purse, too!!

Birthday Bash

2010-05-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

It is the week before my BIRTHDAY, so we are going to have a SALE!! All my PDF Sewing Patterns are on sale this week. All patterns are on sale for $4.50.

The Big Bag

The Bag With Seperator

Peasant Dress sizes 1-4

Baby Buggy Blanket

2 Layer Skirt

3 Layer Skirt

Hunter Romper size 3month-24month

LETS HAVE A SEWING PARTY!!!

New Giveaway!!!!

2010-05-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

I am having another giveaway!!! Go to Dang Gina Give-Aways to enter!!! You will want to follow her blog, she always has a giveaway!!

Newest Pattern and Fabric

2010-05-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

It is so easy to find super cute girl patterns everywhere. Which is way exciting because they are always so fun to dress. But what about the boys, don't they get to be stinkin cute too? I got to make this pattern for someone on Etsy, and I was so excited to do it. The boys don't need all the extra frill that the girls have, but it is always fun to have something made for them that is unique from a boutique instead of something that was mass produced.

This pattern fits sizes 3 months - 24 months.

2 button placements on the shoulders for that growing baby.

Snap opening for easy diaper changes.

Step by step instructions made in PDF form.

Pattern has real pictures for every step!!!

I also have this fantastic sister who is so talented when it comes to graphic design, and made me this new pattern cover. I am so EXCITED!! I have my own original look, thanks to my wonderful little sis!

To top off the excitement for me, I got more fabric from Joel Dewberry and LOVE it!!

This is the fabric I used for the romper.

I don't know what it is about this fabric, but I LOVE it. It is so soft looking, I keep saving it and hoping for that perfect project because I just don't want to waist it. So any ideas are welcome!!!

I have a couple ideas for this fabric, I just love how Joel Dewberry uses nature in all his prints. For loving to be outdoors with my family, these fabrics are perfect for me!!

2010-03-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Etsy, I have been able to meet some really great people. They offer a section on their site, where you can have forums and talk with others for anything from help or just to show your stuff. When I was in the forums about a month ago, I ran across Crystal Gayle Photography. She has beautiful, and I mean beautiful pictures. One of my favorite things is being outdoors, and Crystal captures the beauty of it so perfectly!!

I can guarentee that I need to work on is my photography skills(my little sister got that talent!) Go check out Crystals Blog, and say hello, she is super friendly, and luck you she has a

GIVEAWAY!!! And those of you on Etsy go add her as a favorite shop!!

Giveaway, Giveaway!!

2010-03-25T20:35:00.000-07:00

I am doing another giveaway!! Jump over to Barefoot by the Sea blog and leave a comment for a chance to win a PDF Pattern.

Visit http://www.barefootbysea.blogspot.com/

Jessica is fantastic, she loves giveaways, so you will definately want to follow her, and find out what she is giving away next!

My Giveaway!!

2010-03-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

I am having a giveaway on By Hand Giveaway. Stop by her blog and enter to win!!!

hthttp://byhandgiveaways.blogspot.com/2010/03/sponsored-enter-here-win-20-gift.html

Joel Dewberry Deer Valley Fabrics

2010-02-24T20:08:00.000-08:00

More fabrics from Joel Dewberry. These fabrics are from his Deer Valley collection.

The Deer Valley is a peaceful and beautiful collection of rustic prints inspired by mountain meadows and the occassional passing deer. Columbines, wildflowers, and mountain gems all help usher in an early spring.

I have already been able to sew something in these new fabrics, and loved it!!

This is a favorite print for me, becuase I am married to a huge hunting fan. I have have told my husband for years that we will never have a dead animal head in our home unless he has his own den. Now that I have found this fabric, I keep joking with him that this is how he will get a deer in the house. I will just decorate with it!! He laughs, oh well, I tried!

AND THE WINNER IS!!!!

2010-02-23T19:01:00.000-08:00

The winner to the Necklace Giveaway from eklegler handcrafted pearl necklaces and earrings is......

PZ Designs

Thank you to everyone who put there name in the drawing and for supporting my shop!

Necklace Giveaway!!

2010-02-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to show you this new shop, and a fantastic giveaway!! Betsy Kleger, with eklegler handcrafted pearl necklaces and earrings. One of my favorite things about Betsy is her mission statement - To put "Big Box" businesses out of business and to keep alive the handmade traditions.

Betsy makes unique handmade faux pearl necklaces and earrings, and is always welcome to custom orders.

Here is the giveaway!!

A beautiful 18" hand-crafted crocheted three-stranded necklace with faux pearls. Closes with lobster claw clasp.

Here is how you can win.

The giveaway will last until midnight on Monday, February 22nd. I will announce the winner by Wednesday the 24th, here on my blog and on my facebook.

To get in the drawing:

1. Leave me a comment on this post for 1 entry into this post

2. Add to my list of followers, and say so in your comment left, for another entry

3. Go to Betsy's facebook page and add yourself to her fanpage and leave her a comment, for a 3rd entry. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Betsy-Klegers-ekleger-Etsy-Shop/303703522163?v=info&ref=mf

4. Go to Betsy's Etsy shop and become fan there too for a 4th entry - http://www.etsy.com/shop/ekleger

Good Luck!!

Joel Dewberry Aviary Fabrics

2010-02-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

I have started selling fabric!! Yeah!! So many fun prints.

These fabrics are designed by Joel Dewberry, who gets his inspiration from nature. Because of mine and my husbands love for being outdoors, this fabric feels close to home. I just love this fabric, oh the possibilities!!

The Aviary Collection, is a perfect retreat to the garden. It recreates the beauty and spirit that are synonymous with a relaxing garden setting. From the cherry blossom and the sparrow motif to the rich wood grain texture, Aviary transports the elegant design of nature to the luxurious medium of fabric. Sparrows - Dark Green

Wood grain

Sunburst Damask

These are some projects that I was able to already sew!! I really love working with this fabric, it has such high quality, and it shows.

Each of these aprons that I made were made for 2 mom and their daughters. How fun to match in style while making that fantastic batch of cookies.

If you are interested in any of these fabrics, please let me know. I can sell anywhere from 1/2 a yard to more. I will slowly get more fabrics in stock, through my husbands patience and my pocket book. :)

Check out his site, and if there is a fabric you like, I can get it for you - http://www.joeldewberry.com/

I sell these fabrics at $7.95 a yard

2010-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

I love crafting, I am always meeting new people, who share the same love for crafts that I do. I want to tell you about Elizabeth from http://lizbethsgarden.wordpress.com/. She is a writer and an artist. If you check out her blog you will find hew write about books, politics, and everything in between. But I would love to show you her etsy shop!! She has just finished some fun earring tassels.

The tassels are one inch long in red with a red wrap. A silver rose accents the front of the tassel.

Elizabeth makes tassels for key rings, earrings, home decor, and ornaments. She also has some art in her shop! Check it out - http://www.etsy.com/shop/lizbethsgarden.

Fun Ideas

2010-01-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

I just had the chance to work on such a fun project! I was asked to make 2 costumes for some boys. One cow and one pig. So I though I would share it with you! I always love when I get a chance to creat something new! My kids were so jealous when I finished the costumes. They wanted me to start making them some to match, because I wouldn't let them touch these ones.

2010-01-23T14:05:00.000-08:00

I want to share a fantastic tutorial with you today. Bobbie from http://www.iamonly1woman.blogspot.com/, has a wonderful idea for using all those scraps that we get hanging around.
here is her final flower, with her words and instructions to follow.

Get a pile of scraps/selvage edges. The longer pieces that I used were ones from squaring up my fabric before I would cut it.

You will also need a needle and thread and a button.

Thread your needle and make sure to double tie the knot so that it does not slip through your fabric. Start stacking pieces of fabric onto the needle. You can shape them as you go or shape before you tie it off. Some of the larger pieces I twisted around and around on the needle to create flower petals.

Side view of stacking the fabric.

I had to use the pliers to pull the needle all the way through.

Then when you have gotten the desired look. Sew through the entire thickness of your fabric flower several times to get it so that it won't fall apart. Then sew on your button (or you can hot glue it on)

And now you have a gorgeous fabric flower! Use it as a hairbow, a brooch, decorations, whatever you can think of. It is a great way to use what you have to create something beautiful. -Bobbie

Stop by her blog and check out her Etsy shop! - www.iamonly1woman.blogspot.com

Haiti Relief

2010-01-15T09:41:00.000-08:00

"I have been sitting here in augh, seeing how much people are doing to help with the relief efforts in Haiti. An wondering what I can do to help. I am so thankful for this opportunity to be able help. You pick the PDF pattern you want. Let me know in your comments when you buy it. I send you the pattern via email, and send 50% of the sale to the relief efforts. Patterns available - The big bag Bag with Seperator Baby Buggy Bag 3 Layer Skirt 2 Layer Skirt (my patterns have easy directions to follow for any skill level.)

I will send the money through the LDS Philanthropies. If you would like a copy of what I send, I am more that willing to share the information. I think it is wonderful for all of us to be able to help together in our own homes. For questions about LDS Philanthropies, here is there site - http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/"

Quiet Books

2010-01-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for new ideas to keep my kids quiet when I go to church. So I was so excited to run across this blog. Anna has made her whole blog on how to make quietbooks. This is a picture of all the pages of the quiet book. How creative! This is one of my favorite page, it is so cute!!Visit her blog at - http://quietbooks.blogspot.com/

Dora, Dora, Dora

2010-01-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

We did it!! The dress turned out fantastic!! She loves it!! Thanks to the inspiration of Dora the Explorer.

The Layers!!!!

AND THE TWIRL!! She is very proud!!

SALE

2010-01-04T09:43:00.000-08:00

ALL PDF PATTERNS ON SALE IN MY SHOP!!!

CHECK THEM OUT!!

AND TELL YOUR FRIENDS!!

SALE LASTS UNTILL JANUARY 11th!!

The Dora Dress

2009-12-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

I was just watching Dora The Explorer with my daughter, and fell in love with her dress. I tried to find a picture, but I couldn't find one of the whole dress. I want to make this dress for my daughter for Christmas! I think I will change the sleeves to a bell sleeve, but the skirt is what I love. Imagine those sleeves in layers all the way up the bottom of the skirt. I think there was 5 layers. So cute. I better get sewing, I will show you the dress when it is done!!

Sewing Classes

2009-12-03T08:58:00.001-08:00

I am teaching sewing lessons, and looking for new students.

Any age is welcome from 8 years and up to adults.

any skill level is welcome. Learn to sew the basics, and work your way up to advanced sewing.

Classes have 1 -2 students in each, a lot of hands-on help from me.

If you are interested, or know of anyone, please contact me. I will give a discount to you if you find a friend for the same class.

Blastoff !!!!!!

2009-09-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

Check it out!!

http://ppl.blastoffnetwork.com/shanphillipp

This site is a blast! You will love it!!

Halloween Fun

2009-09-06T16:34:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple ideas from years past for some fun halloween costumes.

Dorothy and the Tin-Man.

Dorothy is made with a gingham fabric where the pattern alternates at the waist and hem. The dress is one piece with the diaper cover underneath to match. And she can never go without her red sparkly shoes. The shoes were hard to find in such a small size, so I used a black pair of babydoll shoes and added red glitter to them with just your basic Elmers glue. And yet again, I cannot make anything girl, without a bow!

The Tin-Man is made in a silver stretch fabric, and zips up the back. At each joint is a hinge that is attatched with buttons. The hat is made from a funnel that has been spray painted silver. This Tin-Man already found his heart!! These costumes were made from Simplicity 4024.

VEGGIE TALES!

If you have seen Veggie Tales, you will recognize these costumes! Above is Bob the Tomato. Bob was made with red felt. The eyes are lightly stuffed to stick out, and the nose was stuffed to jump, with a large smiley face below. The neck and hem of this costume have elastic in them to hold it in place, and give it the round look with the hem landing at the hips. Red tights and a green leaf bow accent the costume very well. The bow is made from felt and ribbon.

Larry the Cucumer was made similar to Bob the Toamto, minus the elastic at the hem. This costume ends just above the feet, and is still very easy to walk in!

Getting ready for Halloween

2009-08-25T09:42:00.001-07:00

Last year I made this cute costume for my beautiful model!! She didn't like it at all, and refused to wear it. Luckily it still fits, tight, but fits!! So she is ready for Halloween already!The costume was made in fleece with a zipper down the back. Ribbon are looped around the head for a mane and at the end of the tail. To add the girly look, we had to add the pink!! Pink ears, feet, and pink bows on the ear and tail!! If you have any cute Halloween ideas, let me know!!

What a Blessing

2009-04-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

I thought I should show you one of the projects that I had finished about a month ago, and just been slow sharing it. A good friend of mine just had a beautiful baby girl, and asked for me to make her a blessing dress. This dress is made with white cotton fabric, and accented with lace trim and ribbon. The dress is a traditional length, with a peter pan collar and baby doll sleeves. It is always fun to sew a beautiful dress, so I thought I would share it with you.

And of course, a dress can't go without a bow to match. Sorry the pictures don't look very professional, I am much better at sewing than I am at photography!! If you are any one is interested in a custom blessing dress, I would love to give you a quote on a price.

Volunteers Needed

2009-02-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

I am needing a few volunteers to help me out. I'm finishing up some patterns that I would like to sell, and I need anyone willing to give them a try. Before I start to sell the pattern, I would like to know if it is easy to follow. I am giving the pattern to those who are willing to help me, for free. The only thing you will need to buy is the fabric and extra supplies. Here are the patterns below, these are quick pictures, so if you have any questions please let me know.

The Big Bag

This bag is a really simple, perfect for beginners.

Skirt with 3 layers

This is also a really simple pattern that is good for beginners. The pattern is for all sizes, toddler up to adult. The size you see here is for a 9-10 year old.

Skirt with 2 layers

This skirt has a lining in it, to act as a slip. It is accented with the ribbon for extra fun. The size here is for an adult, but can also be made for any size.

A multi pocket apron

This apron has as 3 layers of multiple pockets. Great for the multi-tasker. This was a really fun apron to sew.

The divider Bag This bag is an average size, with a divider in the middle. It is a sturdy bag to help carry it all. The Jogger/Stroller Blanket This is really one of my favorites. We recently moved to a colder climate, and I love to be able to go for walks. I hate taking a blanket and having it fall under the wheels of my jogger. So I decided that I needed a blanket that the straps of the jogger would fit through. The back of the blanket has the correct placement of holes for the straps of joggers, car seats, and strollers to fit through. The bottom of the blanket has a cubby for a childs feet, and then it wraps around them, and straps with a button or velcro. This blanket comes in 2 sizes. Baby and toddler. The size you see here is for toddler, and I can fit my 2 and 4 year old inside. If you are interested in helping me out, you can get ahold of me a couple ways. Leave a comment below, email me, or contact me through my etsy button. I will be needing a couple people for each pattern, and encourage any sewing skill levels. Thank you for your help! Shannon

Sale Sale Sale

2009-02-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

I am having a Sale on all my things!! check them out, go to my etsy link!!

2009-01-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

This is such a fun dress, I have had a bunch of requests to make this dress, that I thought I would sew more so you could see the fun possibilities. All of these dresses below are for sale, or I can make one with fabrics of your choice.

Fun peasant dress made with cotton fabric. This dress can be made from toddler sizes up to size 8 for girls. The sizes you currently see are all to fit 3-5 years old. Sleeves and belt accent the dress. And of course a bow to match.

In an earlier post I had the price at $40.00, I am now selling them for $30.00.

I will be making a pattern to sell for these dresses, if you are interested please contact me. It is a super fun and easy dress to sew.

Peasant Dress

2008-09-23T13:36:00.000-07:00

I have the perfect model, isn't she adorable!!

Fun peasant dress made with cotton fabric.

This dress can be made from toddler sizes up to size 8 for girls.

Sleeves and belt accent the dress, along with a tiny bow on the neckline. And of course a bow to match. $40.00

Nie Recovery

2008-09-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

Please go check out this site. A friend of one of my really good friends was in a plane crash with her husband and they are in critical condition. It touches my heart to see the support they have, and what deserving people they are. I couldn't stop thinking about them, and their children, so I thought I should share it with all of you. Thanks!!!

Homemade Baby Wipes

2008-08-17T13:27:00.001-07:00

These are homemade baby wipes. My friend had made these and posted them on her blog. What a fun idea to add the splash of color with ribbon and flowers. They are very simple to make and cheap. You need a 3 quart container that has a lid, bounty paper towels, baby oil, baby soap and water. Cut the paper towel roll in half. Remove the cardboard from the center. Put the roll into your container. Mix 1 Tbs. baby oil, 1 tsp. baby soap, and 2 Cups water together. Pour the mixture over the paper towels and you have wipes. They actually work very well. I decided to fancy my container up a little bit because I was bored yesterday and I glued the recipe to the back so that I always know where it is.

-Thanks a ton, Andi!!!

Car Seat Cover with Headrest and Shade

2008-08-05T19:58:00.000-07:00

Tired of your baby's car seat? Don't buy a new one, just replace the cover!! Can't find a car seat that fits your style? Tell me what you want, and I will help you make it happen!!!! Here is a custom baby's car seat with the headrest and sun shade. If this is not your style, I can help you make your own idea's happen.

Fabrics used are sturdy durable, they will hold through your baby and the many washes. Wash with cold water, and then lay out to dry.

Carseat cover is made with 100% cotton batting, and then lined on the bottom with designer fabric. It is easy to wash, and will last through many many washes. Cover should fit most car seats, but if you are worried about your's, please let me know.

Headrest is also made with 100% batting and lined on the bottom with designer fabric. The rest is stuffed with polyester batting fill.Sunshade will wrap around your existing shade, so you don't have to fight your old shade.

The shade has a strip of velcro to hold it together, which helps for the ease of washing.If you would like matching shoulder straps please let me know.

Will be coming out with a toddler seat soon, if you have any great ideas for colors or fabrics, please let me know!!

$60.00 for the set

Hooded Bath/Beach Towel

2008-08-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

$22.00 each

Do you hate pulling your kids out of the bath tub and getting soaked because your towel is too thin? These hooded towels are strong and perfect to wrap around for a full baby bund!! These towels have been one of my favorite things for my own children. I couldn't go with out making one for you. The towels are perfect for the bath, swimming pool, and the beach.

With the large size of 30"x54", this towel will last from newborn through childhood. The towels are made with 100% Pure Brazil Cotton.

The color featured is sage. Trimmed with Blue ribbon with small blue flowers.

This towel is the perfect gift at a shower, birthday party, or just because. A gift that is ready to give!

If you have a specific color that you would like, please let me know, I would love to help you match the other colors in your bathroom, or even get some fun bright colors for you!

The Big Bag

2008-07-30T21:11:00.000-07:00

I came across this website today, and love it! How fun for crafters to get together! I love it, and wanted to share it with you.

http://www.craftstylish.com/

I added a fun bag that I made for myself to the site, and am pretty excited. I thought I would share it with you so you could share my excitement.

Do your bags always over flow? Do you wish you had a bag that fit it all? I did, I was tired of fighting the small bags! I wanted something that was big enough to hold a 3 ring binder, and toys for the kids. I wanted it to be fun and useful. I bought the fabric that you can see, but I had so many scraps of interfacing at home ( I hate to throw it away if it will be usefull at some point, and it was!) I also used some old canvas fabric that had been at my mom's house for ever; the canvas was used to help stiffen the bag, so it wouldn't be too floppy. They only thing that I spent money on is the fabric that is visible. The bag can be reversible, and hold pretty much everything I need! I get compliments on it all the time, and no one knows what it holding the bag together. The bag is stong and stylish, perfect for me!!

Cute Little Piggies

2008-07-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

Snap clips covered in grossgrain ribbon, with single bow tied with a knot. Set of 4 bows for pigtails.

If interested in any seperately, please let me know, price per each set will be $4.00.

Price for full set is $15.00

More Piggie Choices: $5.00 per set

Fun Headbands

2008-07-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

Don't I have the cutest model!! She was so good at posing for me!!

Headbands made with 1" - 1 1/2"grossgrain ribbon. Ties around the back with 3/8" grossgrain ribbon, one side in a loop and the other side with 2 tails ready to tie.Underside has velcro for no slip!

Perfect for all ages, and all hair styles! Can fit mommy all the way down to baby!

Can make Mommy and Me styles. How fun to match!!

All Headbands $5.00

No Slip Hair Bows

2008-07-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

All Hair bows are made with a double prong alligator clip, and are no slip.

If you need a bow for any special occasion, please let me know the colors you need. If you need to add some excitement to a school uniform, add a bow with the school colors!! If you need a bow for blessing baptisms, birthdays, or just because!!

Prices are under each bow.

Measures 4"

$5.00

Measures 3"

$5.00

Ponytail bows, measure 3" each

$8.00 for both

Ponytail bows, measure 1 1/2" each

$5.00 for both

made in a smoke free/pet free home

Wipes Case

2008-07-14T16:10:00.000-07:00

Blue Polka dot fabric accented with bow.

Pink stripes accented with satin ribbon and flower button.

Pink Retro Dots accented with maroon and pink bows.

All sale for $10.00ea

check out mytaylormade at etsy.com

Baby Blankets

2008-07-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

Perfect for cuddling that perfect baby!

Blanket measures 37"x37", made with 100% cotton fabric and 100% cotton batting.
This blanket is made to last, perfect blanket to hand down as an heirloom.

Matching burpcloth, so you go out in style!

Prewashed to help prevent shrinking.

Willing to custom make a blanket and burpcloth for you, if you have any specific fabric you like!

Smoke Free and Pet Free home.

All sale for $30.00 ea