Dressed to a "Tee"

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T07:06:00.002-05:00

Walls, walls

2012-02-11T09:11:00.001-05:00

Well I'm pretty pleased with the walls. I'm going to use the darker paint for the smallest walls and the lighter pink for the two long walls.

Sewing Center

2012-02-09T16:18:00.001-05:00

Update: the drywall goes up tonight! More pics soon...

Sewing Room Update

2012-02-07T19:11:00.002-05:00

The guys are making much progress! All of the electrical upgrades and lighting have been installed. Way to go Shawn! Next up sheet rock!

Now I have to decide what color to paint????? I'm going back and forth between a pale yellow or a soft beige. Any suggestions folks, what color is your sewing room??

Here is the artwork I'll be hanging!

This flooring will be installed last.

New addition to the family!

2012-02-01T19:08:00.001-05:00

I couldn't resist this baby! Watching HSN last week and this was the customer pick! I plan to use for classes and ASG NG meetings. It's the Singer 160th Anniversary Edition. Isn't she beautiful.

Goodies for the new Sewing Center!!

2012-01-30T06:26:00.001-05:00

These are two of the switch plate covers for the new Sewing Center. I found them on Ebay.

I also ordered this storage bench from Overstock.com. I plan to use the drawers for pattern storage.

Marital Bliss

2012-01-28T18:33:00.001-05:00

My DH and I had the pleasure of attending our dear friend's 56th wedding dinner on Saturday. Here's the present I stitched for them.

A little bitty ironing board!

2012-01-22T19:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to my friend, Judy's son, for making this wonderful edition for my new Sewing Center! It's 16x7.

Angel Diane

2012-01-20T20:06:00.003-05:00

Today I was blessed by a "Sewing Angel." Her name was Diane. I was told she passed on three years ago. But when I stepped into her sewing room I felt like we were old friends. My sewing buddy, Latoria, introduced me to James, Diane's husband, who was cleaning out her room. He kept saying he wanted someone to have it who would use it. Well we all know that won't be a problem with me! Here are pics of the wonderful things he gave me that will be used in my new sewing center. The best thing I received and photograph was a dual sewing bed u- shaped sewing table! My DH had to disassemble it to transport it home. Once it's put together and in its new home, I'll share it with you. I know there are Los of pics, but I was overwhelmed by his generosity. Oh yes, Latoria got some great things too! Thanks again "Angel Diane"!

New Sewing Center Part 1 :)

2012-01-15T17:37:00.001-05:00

Hello sewing friends. I'm tickled pink to announce I'm getting a new sewing room constructed in my basement. About 5 yrs ago or so, I sewed in this space in it's unfinished state for about 20 years. I moved to the upstairs bedroom and have now outgrown it! My DH declared in Dec that he was tired of my sewing things being scattered everywhere and thus his new project----my new sewing center!!!! My brother-in-law James, is the contractor and Shawn, my cuz, is the electrician.
I have been researching flooring, shelving, storage and playing around with computerized floor plans. I googled sewing room ideas (images) and OMG I found pages and pages of pics. We decided to go with a cork floor and I'm going to design a custom cutting and storage table that will be on wheels. I really want it to have drop leaf sides. My fabric is wrapped on cardboard that a get from Hancocks & Joan's. So I need shelves for vertical storage. Still working that issue out: custom built or purchased shelving? Here's a few pics of the rooms now. Also pics of the storage units, lights, & heater we purchased from Home Depot. More to come...

2011-12-31T22:21:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

Christmas gifts

2011-12-30T13:24:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone had a blessed Christmas!

Here's the pjs I didn't finish before surgery. I just needed to make the button holes and sew on the buttons. It's all ready, and I was able to hand sew the buttons on without any pain or numbness! Yippee!!

I received an awesome gift from my hubby...a Reliable blind stitch machine! No pics yet of machine, as it's still in the box. My new sewing room is being constructed. Yes , that's right. We're finishing the basement so I can move all of my sewing things to one room. I have pretty much taken over the back bedroom and places Niall of the other rooms!!!!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-22T12:24:00.000-05:00

May your holidays be blessed!

Carpel Tunnel

2011-12-13T12:38:00.001-05:00

Hello sewing friends! I've missed you. On November 18 I had carpel tunnel surgery on my right hand. Hence, my absence from the blog world. I've been lurking just not posting. Haven't sewn since the retreat. What fun we had at the retreat! Five fun-filled days of sewing. There were quilters, embroiders, knitters, and garment sewers. One lady didn't sew a thing, she just went around helping others with their projects. She said she is retired and always has time to sew, she just enjoyed being with others who share her passion for sewing!

Here's the tutu I made to wear to my granddaughter and grandson's Princess & Pirate party. It was simple to make. I just cut strips out of the tulle and tied it to the elastic waistband.

A sleeper a made for our church's babyshower for needy moms. I used a New Look pattern.

sewing-themed apron

Our ASG Chapter issued a challenge to make an apron expressing your personality. This is totally me. I made this apron by piecing strips of cotton and cutting into an apron with a halter-like top. A jelly roll apron I saw at Sewing Expo was my inspiration. Fabric purchased in LA Garment District. I love it.

Made this turtleneck in less than an hour! So cute. Stash fabric from Hancocks. I used a vintage Butterick 3199.

This tunic New Look 6086 turned out so nice, I plan to wear for my Christmas open house. Fabric is a gold metallic lycra from A Fabric Place, Baltimore, MD

These cute sewing machine tree oranaments are now on my Christmas tree. Aren't they darling!!!!! So glad to be back blogging! See you soon!

Ready for retreat!

2011-11-07T05:35:00.000-05:00

Thanks for stopping by my Blog!

Well it's definitely countdown time! I'll be at ASG's 5th annual sewing retreat on Wed! 5 glorious days of uninterrupted sewing, no work, cooking, cleaning, driving here and there, etc. Just plain ole' sewing, eating, sewing, eating, sleeping, seeing, eating, (you get the picture) LOL.

I've already stuffed all of my UFOs into my rolling duffel bag. One is something I stared at the 2nd retreat :(. I really need some tops, so the plan is to make at least 5. Of course, I'll be making some gifts for the grands! Normally I take way too much, but this year I'm really trying to take less! My car usually looks like I'm moving out, LOL

There are 25 of us this year so we will only be allowed 1 table each. We will meet at a nearby restaurant for some food and fellowship, and then the fun begins! I'll keep you posted on my progress/adventures!

Happy sewing

Happy Halloween

2011-10-29T23:20:00.000-04:00

We were going to the pumpkin farm today, but mother nature had other plans. The weather predictions were correct, I awoke to heavy rain that turned into snow showers and more ran, pretty much rained in Baltimore City until around 7 or 8 pm.

So I made it my day to sew, and boy did I sew. I mended some uniforms for my mom, finished up my niece's ring dance dress, made a cover for my serger, and embroidered a tea towel. I watched Charlie Brown's Halloween special Friday night and so in honor of that classic, here's it is!

Serger cover

front

back

I used Wildginger software to draft the pattern for this dress. The drape in the front is a circle with a serged rolled edge. Hopefully, I 'll get pics of her with it on.

I've been watching quilt videos on You tube. I'm in love with the "quilt as you go" quilt. I also cut out some fabric strips today and will try my hand at it soon! I need to get one more fabric to before I start.

I've had a pretty productive day today! Happy sewing friends, good night!!!

Bras Bras Bras

2011-10-29T22:11:00.000-04:00

Wow, a couple of weeks ago I took a bra class from Anne St. Clair! This lady knows her stuff! Prior to attending her class we had to send her 3 measurements (chest, high bust & rib cage (under breast). When we showed up on Friday for our fitting, we tried on a bra close to these measurements. I was amazed at how well the bra fit and lifted my "girls." I attended the Sunday class. We received enouh materials to make 3 bras--we completed one bra in class. It was a lot of work, it took me the entire day to complete my bra. I was soooooo satisfied with the fit, it was worth the effort. I purchased 3 more kits. Here's some pics...the blue ink will wash out.

Why I Sew For Others

2011-09-27T21:24:00.000-04:00

I have read so many horror stories on blogs about clients. I, too, have certainly had my share. However, I had to share this with you!

I altered and bustled five wedding gowns this season! To my surprise I received a generous tip from one client, aYanky Candle home scent kit from another, and today this arrived in the mail! For all of the headaches, late nights, and ripping of seams, having to reattach beads, sequins, and pearls on a store bought gown, etc. this makes it all worthwhile! I've enjoyed sharing a bit of these ladies lives as they planned for their special day! I pray they all have wonderfully blessed lives together!

Our new grandson

2011-09-10T22:32:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the world...Amari Christopher Actie. 9/10/11 @1:54pm 7 lbs 1.7 ozs.

Proud Poppa Sterling

Quite weekend

2011-09-10T22:30:00.000-04:00

During Hurricane Irene, my DH and I were away (Harrisburg, PA) for a belated anniversary getaway! Back home the power was out. I left plenty of food and water for Foxy, our cat. We'll be back tomorrow. It's been very relaxing. We lost power for about 5 hins, I guess the hotel generator qicked in. Went to the movies yesterday and saw Columbiana. Prety good, but also pretty predictable. Hopefully my packages will have arrived from LA by the time I get back tomorrow!

Young sewers

2011-08-25T21:50:00.000-04:00

Not long ago, my granddaughter and her friend were over while I was sewing. When I was at the cutting table, to my surprise, Naija began to get scraps of fabric and show her friend, Monae, how to sew. They left with pillows and blankets for their Bratz dolls! I was so happy, as Naija doesn't seem to really be interested in sewing! She did a pretty good job, but I have to teach to thread the machine!

Fabulous Fifty, Part 3

2011-08-25T21:39:00.001-04:00

Well, the photographer did an absolutely amazing job! Sorry, but this post is pic heavy!

My arrival, check out the red carpet!!!

My reaction to the sewing maching birthday cake!

Ty raided my house for sewing decor....a Christmas present from my best bud Johanna

Me and my mom! "I get it from my mama"

My sisters "The Jones Girls"

My daughters, Cole & Ty

My other kids, Shalonda & Riley/Sterling and Ariel and baby Amari (coming in Sept)

Party over here!!!!

Thanks for obliging me!!!!!

Fabric shopping in LA!

2011-08-25T21:21:00.001-04:00

Hi ladies,

I just got back from the ASG National Conference in Los Angeles!!!!! What a great time! Some of the classes I took were Fashion Illustration, Prof Yelen Aye, Arts Center Saturday High School Program ; Professional Tote Bag Tips with the "Pixie Ladies"; and the Little Black Dress with Susan Khalje!

We went on a fabric shopping trip and visited the following stores: MOOD, Rimmon Fabrics, International Silks, and many, many, many, stores in the garment district!!!!!! Yes, I broke the bank....couldn't resist. So many beautiful fabrics!!!!!

I had my fabric shipped, so I can't post pics yet! I'll tell you this much, I insured the box, LOL

While in Mood, we saw PR contestant, Bert! He was so gracious, no he didn't spill the beans. Said he didn't know who won this season yet!

Me, downtown LA near the hotel

Santa Monica Blvd

Hollywood Blvd

bag full of goodies for my babies!

ASG Conference, Westin Bonaventure Hotel

I'm wearing a dress that we made at our neighborhood group meeting using a tank top as our pattern. Please forgive the black leggins, it was frigid in those classrooms, LOL

Darlene, Marie, Helen, and I enjoying a night in LA!

As soon as my box arrives, I'll have more pics from my LA shopping and classes~thanks for stopping by~

Fabulous Fifty - Part 2

2011-08-09T13:13:00.001-04:00

I've had the best weekend! My DH gave me an IPAD for my birthday. Luv it!!!! On Saturday, 8/6, my daughters & DH gave me a fab party. My god parents came from Texas! What a great surprise!!!!. We danced the night away. There was so much love in the room!!! Here's a cuple of pics. My daughter had a prof photographer, so I'll post more later!

This is my beautiful birthday cake!!!! My daughter hit the jackpot on this!!!! The entire sewing cabinet (except the legs is a cake). The black singer is fondant! the buttons in the sewing box were candy - all edible)!!!!!!! I hated to cut it. It was a 4-layer butter cake with raspberry/strawberry filling. She had cupcakes for the table centerpieces---they were decorated to look like pin cushions.

Here we are off on our ride in the stretch limo!!! My DH had a limo pick us up and take us on an hour-long ride before going to my party. When I arrived at the hall the rain had stopped! It was so much fun!!!!!! Love you Donald, Tynesha, and Nicole!!! I danced until midnight in my Michael Kors shoes! I'll have more pics of my dress and details later....awaiting more pics from photographer. These are just the few that I took. Stay for Part 3!

Peace!

2011-08-03T18:18:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to Me!!!!

Celebrating 50 fabulous years today!!!!! On my way to enjoy some Maryland Steamed Blue Crabs with plenty of Old Bay!!!!!

Hello everyone

2011-07-27T21:36:00.001-04:00

Wow, it sure has been hot in Baltimore!!!! I've been doing a lot of sewing. A lot of it has been wedding dress alterations. So far I've bustled and hemmed four wedding gowns. In between all of that, I'm making a dress for my birthday!!!! I'll be "fabulous fifty on August 3." My DDs are planning a "surprise" party for me...don't know the date, place, or time, but I want to be ready~~~~it all started when I told my oldest that was beginning to plan my birthday party....she said "ma now I have to tell you, stop planning, don't ask any questions, just stop planning! LOL So I got the message and focused on other stuff. But surprise or not, I have to make a special dress!!!!! I]m sort of designing it myself. I want something with one shoulder exposed. I draped this on the mannequin, now to put it into a real dress.

I got this beautiful fabric from "A Fabric Place" on Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD. They have the most exquisite fabrics!!!!! I underlining it in a light weight gold metallic knit. I'm also preparing a muslin for my "Little Black Dress" class with Susan Khalje at the ASG National Conference in LA! I'm so excited, this will be my second class with Susan. She is phenomenal!!!! I making a very old Vogue pattern (2913 Vogue Attitudes by Paul and Linda Platt cir 1992). Doesn't it look so Audrey Hepburn. We have to prepare a couture muslin with 1" seams and trace all the pattern markings with carbon tracing paper. This is a lot of work! We can't do make any fit adjustments, just use our basic measurements, she will teach us how to use the muslin to make the necessary adjustments, which will then become our pattern!!!!! I cut out the size 12. After that I will be working on my cousin's wedding gown. I'm duplicating this gown for her. It didn't come in her size, so I'll using my Wildginger software---I'll keep you posted. Last but not least I'm making a bridesmaid gown. Black dull satin. The bride piced this vintage Butterick Essence pattern. I'm making the long version. Funny thing is I used Wildginger to make the fitting garment, before I had the pattern and except for a few minor changes to the neckline, it drafted out perfectly!!!!! However, I don't think black satin is very good choice/color for an August wedding. I've got the satin underlined with white silk organza and will be using china silk lining fabric. Hopefully this will help her stay cool when not indoors. My other gown alterations include shortening a wedding gown that has an intricate lace edge hem. I'm going to take the gown apart at the bodice/waist; shorten it and then reattach it. I won't start this project until after conference.

August is a pretty busy month for us this year, we also will celebrate our 7th wedding anniversary on August 8. I've been blessed with a marvelous husband who doesn't mind my sewing indulgences!!!! I've just got to get into men's clothes. I want to make him some shirts. I hope to have some made for him by Christmas. I don't know about you, but I find them dull to make....what about you guys - how do you feel about sewing for men????? Holler back, I really want to know what you think....any tips, words of encouragement....LOL Well that's all for now!

TTYL

More projects completed

2011-07-18T07:09:00.000-04:00

I've been doing a lot of wedding gown alterations! Whew, in between that, I was commissioned to make 11 embroidered stoles and a flag for a small church. I used a Monece Satin from Hancock and interfaced the stoles with a medium sew in Pellon. I got the fringe fro Walmart's -- their's was only$3 a yd compared to $5 & up at Hancocks and Joanns. They weren't having a sale when I was making my purchase, and they didn't have enough yardage in stock for me to even use my coupon. So once again my "ram in the bush" Walmart saved the day! Did anyone read recently that Walmarts is bringing back fabrics. I guess all the writing campaings worked!!!!

Anyway back to the stoles and flag. I have made tons of stoles, but have never made a flag! I looked on line for guidance and there wasn't much....so I looked at flags from flag stores on line. I was given a picture of a design they wanted and it was pretty simple---a rectangle sectioned into 3 triangles. I pulled out my trusty quilting rulers and set out to make this flag. I think it turned out pretty good for my first one!

The stoles turned out nicely also, the pastor had a vision for the choice of colors. The Gold represented the Christ, the Red, the Holy Spirit, and the Green, the church members.

Always a "Flower Girl" Not a Bride Yet!!!!

2011-07-03T20:15:00.002-04:00

Hi friends out there in sewing land! I've been checking out all of your wonderful sewing blogs!!!! You all are so talented, thanks for the inspiration!!!. I haven't posted in a bit, but I've been oh so busy. I've been taking on jobs from a friend who is a fulltime seamstress. I've been busling (sp) and hemming wedding and bridesmaids gowns. I love doing them because you pick up some neat industry techniques when you take them apart. That's the only kind of alteration I like doing? What about you.

Here are some pics of my GD, Kyla, yes, she was in another wedding! She's becoming a pro at 7 years old.

I used Butterick 5901 to make Butterick 3351 (B) since I didn't have Butterick 3351 in my GD's size. It turned out great!

GO MISS DIVA!!!

I finally got something made for myself!!! Yippee!!! Two cotton knit dresses. The fabrics are from Elliott Berman Textiles in NY! I used New Look 6697 (view E) for the black and white print. I used my Evolve cover stitch for the hem. I serged the seams over bias seam binding to prevent stretching and wore a red belt for some color. However, in the pic, I used a piece of scrap red fabric!

I found this black/white/orange cotton knit at Elliott Berman's also! It was the fist piece I saw when I went into the store. I used McCalls 6074. It's such a versatile dress - shopping, movies, or I can wear to work on casual Friday's since we can't wear jeans, this dress would be appropriate.

That's all for now folks, thanks for stopping by!

Black & Red All Over

2011-06-07T20:16:00.000-04:00

Well here's the last prom gown! Isn't Deanna gorgeous! Her dress has a beautiful bow and she's all wrapped up like a pretty package!

and here's the sequined bow tie to match!!!!!

So far, I've completed the alterations on the bride's dress. It turned out really nice. I bustled it by putting a hook & eye set on the inside of the dress. It gave it a very nice look and didn't take away from the dress at all. Sorry I didn't take any pics. Now I'm finishing up two flower girl gowns. They should be completed Saturday, I'll definitely post pics of them.

I loving all the blogs that I've visited lately. Everyone is pretty busy, you guys keep me inspired.

More Prom Gowns

2011-05-24T21:33:00.001-04:00

Hello friends,

Well one more left the stable...here's Shakia rocking her prom gown! This gown is interlined with an interfaced lining weight fabric. It has rigiline boning and I put piping around the top of the bodice. I used an invisible zipper. This was the easiest sequin fabric I have every sewn. No needles breaking and I didn't have sequins all over the place when I finished. The sequins were sewn onto a stretchy netting. Each biased cut layer on the skirt has a wolly nylon rolled edged hem over 20 lb fishing line. The bottom skirt is soooo dreamy!

Here's the black and red sequined dress. I drafted the pattern using Celebrations software from Wildginger. It on the other hand was horrible to sew with, I know I've broken at least 5 needles and there were sequins all other the place. There's no zipper in it at this point. I'm working on the sleeves and the bow/train tomorrow. I underlined the sequin fabric with a poly satin (med) weight. Because the dress is so heavy, I'm going to encase all seams with seam binding rather then add a lining.

Sew Sew & Sew-on

2011-05-19T20:56:00.002-04:00

Well the fittings for the proms are going great! I LOVE Wildger Pattern software, it makes fitting my clients a piece of cake!!!!

I am busy working on three prom gowns, my priest's vestments, 3 priest stoles, 3 deacons stoles, and bridal alterations. I somehow managed to squeeze in embroidering this design on a towel.

Here are pics of the first prom gown out of the stable. I drafted the pattern using Wildginger and my interpretation of flat pattern drafting (LOL). It has a separate foundation piece (made of lining underlined with fusible interfacing and has a gross grain waist stay), which I love because there's no way this gown will fall down and she won't have to tug at the top of the bodice or feel insecure. You secure it like a bra and then zip up the gown. The "outer bodice" rests very slightly away from the bodice and is underlined with silk organza and has boning in the silk organza only. It's my adaptation of a couture technique! I put horsehair in the hem, and I covered the zip tape ends. I have a bit of finishing on the inside and pressing, and she'll be ready to leave on Tuesday.

Here's a preview of the ruffle skirt...so lovely...

I'll be finishing up these two gowns between Fri-Sat. I'll only be leaving my house to go to my ASG meeting on Saturday and church on Sunday. I'm off Monday so I'll get a lot done. Proms are 5/27, 5/28 & 6/2....so I'm down to crunch time.

My Saturday ASG group has a fun meeting planned. We're having a Project Runway Challenge. We'll be separated into 3 groups and our challenge is to make a Preakness Inspired Dress! I'll be sure to take pics.

After the meeting on Saturday, I'll be back at it working on the black/red sequin gown, the muslin fit her like a glove!

Thanks for dropping by & happy sewing everyone!

Ruffles

2011-05-04T22:21:00.000-04:00

Wow, the beading foot for my Babylock Evolve is my new favorite sewing tool right now! I used it to make these georgeous ruffles for one of my prom gowns. See how perfectly it sews around the fishing line and curls!!!!!

The red and black sequined prom gown is back on again!!!! We have our first fitting on Monday. Happy sewing friends...will post more pics soon~

More prom stuff

2011-04-28T21:40:00.002-04:00

Here is the underlining (sorry it's basted together and has pins I used during the fitting.) I used it for the final fitting garment. It's lined with fusible interfacing to give it body. I had to take in in about 1" on the lower front and back seams. I used Wildginger Pattern Software to draft the pattern. Since it's underlined with the interfacing, I can use it to cut out the sequin top.

The upper back didn't have a hook and eye, hence the separation. When I held it together it was just fine. I'm going to also add boning. The layers of organza ruffles will be added to the skirt and I'll add some horsehair braid to the hem so the ruffles set out a bit.

Don't know why the color of the dress came out like it did, but here is the actual fabric. The underlining is actually the same color.

This is the gown I'm re-creating! Beautiful. I'll be using fishline in the hem. My sample turned out really great. I plan to use my beading foot & lower the differential feed on my Evolve. That's all for now! Happy sewing, TTYL

Hello Bloggers

2011-04-23T17:38:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted for some time, but I've been lurking just about everyday. What wonderful projects I've seen.

Well in my last post I mentioned my prom projects. The red short dress with the ruffle accent on the skirt didn't get completed! The school cancelled the dance! Neverhad that happen before. I plan to finish the dress anyway. It was for a niece.

The beautiful red/black sequin dress is a mystery. After purchasing the fabric, she never returned for her fittings. I made up the muslin and scheduled two appointments---no show, no call, just an e-mail stating a family emergency and she would call to make another appointment---well that hasn't happened. Mystery!

As for my third client, all is going well. This is the pic of the gown she wants. I used Wild Ginger Celebrations to draft the top & freehand drafted the overbodice. The fabric is from A Fabric Place in Baltimore. It's from Italy! It is soooo nice to work with. I'm using the bottom tier of the skirt from this pattern Burda 7923. I will not gather the skirt waist, I'll use tucks instead & take out some of the fullness at the top.

The overbodice is underlined with a light weight crinoline type of lining for body and lined with silk organza. It will be attached to the skirt at the waist & only at the sides of the foundation. These pieces have not been pressed.

so I'm making a foundation that will fit her snuggly and have a piece of grossgrain as a waist stay. It will keep the gown up and in place!

It's made out of interfaced lining and a piece of casa satin from my stash. I usually use a zip, but I saw on someone's post last week that they used hook & eyes---turned out pretty good. You learn so much from blogging!

this is the bodice with the skirt lining...once I fit her tomorrow and make any adjustments, I'll cut the fashion fabric.

I've finished the embroidery for the wedding pillows, I'll stitch it out tomorrow. Yes it's Easter, I'm having the kids over for breakfast before church--then after church since my mom is out of town and won't be cooking her big dinner, I'm going to be sewing!!!!

Hope you have a blessed Easter doing whatever you want to do!

It's Prom Season

2011-03-06T19:36:00.001-05:00

Hi fellow sewers! It's prom time again. I have three clients all with interesting tastes.

The tangerine short dress is being made in red Casa satin from Joann's for my niece's sophomore dance. I drafted a muslin using Wildginger PMB software. She tried on her muslin today and it fit perfectly, just had to tweak the bra top a bit.

For this red/black gown, I couldn't believe it when I found the perfect fabric at A Fabric Place. I showed Michael, the owner, the pic and he said he had something that would work. That store is truly a treasure trove of great finds. If you are ever in Baltmore, please check them out.

Not sure what color this gown will be, meeting the client on Wednesday....will keep you posted.

I've got lots planned, I will be burning both candles for a few months.

I have an altar cloth to make for Lent and a pair Ravens curtains a nephew.
I will also be leading a group of fellow ASGers at our upcoming workshop on March 19.
We're making this swing jacket. Didn't really have enought fabric to make the placement of the center panel. So I'll be making it over in a couple of different fabrics to take to class. It a really simple jacket, takes about 2 hours to make including cutting time.

Adult Prom

2011-02-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

Our Church's Women's Day Committee sponsored an "adult" prom last weekend. We had a really nice time. My gown is Butterick 5183. Fabric is a stretch satin with sequin trim---all from my stash!!! I did a FBA (Patti Palmer Full Busted DVD). I love how it turned out!

FBA on front & side front

I also made the sashes and crown for the prom king & queen! Don't they look marvelous!

2011-02-07T22:06:00.000-05:00

Hi Bloggers,

My name is Miss Foxy! I'm Tee's new baby. I have been watching her sew lately, it seems pretty interesting. I especially like bobbins and empty spools. I hope you'll continue to visit Tee's blog. Nice meeting you!

Happy Birthday Miss Naija "Moo"

2011-02-06T21:29:00.000-05:00

My first granddaughte, Naija, turned 12 today! Where did the time go.

she made her tu-tu for this JB photo session!

2011-01-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday!

Here's she is in her new night gown!

2011-01-11T19:59:00.000-05:00

As you can see, Ms. Kyla loves her new Hannah Montana nightgown! It's snowing in Baltimore, probably will get an extra day of sewing in tomorrow!

Kyla's Christmas Nightgown

2011-01-02T20:07:00.002-05:00

My GD loves Hannah Montana. I picked this flannel fabric up at Joann's for $3 a yard. I used McCalls 4646. It sewed up beautifully, and I didn't use the directions, pretty simple.

Christmas Project

2011-01-02T16:35:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Here's pics of my bathroom towels I embroidered over the holidays. The designs are from EmbLibrary!

Rest in Peace

2010-12-30T21:33:00.000-05:00

I attended the Home Going Services for a dear friend, Tara. I made a memorial pillow for her family. RIP dear Tara! You will be missed.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-15T22:32:00.000-05:00

Hi sewing friends,

I've been sooooo busy making Christmas gifts, embroidering things, making cookies, cakes, and pies! Got sick for three days smack dab in the middle of all of this, so I'm behind a bit. All of my sisters and their children will be home for Christmas so I'm making something for everyone!!!!!

Now that I'm all better, I'm making progress. At least I don't have to do anymore shopping, I went crazy shopping for the grandkids, mostly on-line. I love on-line shopping, what about you?

I've been checking out all of the blogs in my spare time, and I'm truly amazed at the talent I see! I just want you to know you are appreciated! Thanks for keeping me inspired in 2010!

I'll post pics of my creations after Christmas. May your celebrations be blessed!

Wishing you Peace and Joy

Ivalyn "Tee" Jones-Actie

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-11-10T21:35:00.001-05:00

Hi blogger friends! I've been soooo busy. I'm sewing up a storm. Working on items for my church bazaar next weekend. I'll be at my sewing retreat; but my DH and DD are manning the table for me, they are too sweet! I'm making fleece hats/scarves; loop knitted hats/scarves; totes; aprons; cosmetic bags, and whatever else I can cram in prior to 11/16! I will probably sleep on the first retreat day. Here's some pics of the hats I made with a loom. I got the yarn from http://www.fabric.com/. I love that thing!!! I'm working on scraves now. I usually knit on the train, it's so relaxing and makes my commute more enjoyable! A friend saw me doing it and now she's knitting too!

This is the wonderful place we will be having ASG Maryland's 4th Annual Sewing Retreat! New Windsor Conference Center, New Windsor, MD. Is so much fun! We are like girls at a sleepover!

I'm also making my new granddaughter a baptismal gown! I'll post pics soon. It is sooo darling. She is four months old and picked out her own fabric! Yes, she really did, we were at Joann's in the bridal section. I showed her a Casa lace at first and I got no response, when I picked up a pretty piece of fabric that had very dainty pearls and sequins, she perked right up! She grabbed at in and me and her mom know that she was saying, "that's the one Mee Mee, that's it" LOL She is a real cutie!

I also embroidered this sweatshirt for a dear friend, she's giving it to her husband for Christmas. Now my husband is getting one made for a co-worker. He's so slick, he knows once the others see it, they will want one. He is my biggest salesperson these days!!! LOL I'm loving my Enterprise! Until next time!

Check out this great MSN video: Niño prodigio de 10 años

2010-10-28T13:32:00.000-04:00

Check out this great MSN video: Niño prodigio de 10 años

2010-10-22T23:46:00.000-04:00

Isn't the weather beautiful, today the sky was so clear and blue! The leaves are turning beautiful orange, red, and burgundy!

I've been playing with my Enterprise! It is an awesome machine. I just completed my first professional job on her. I made a personalized golf cart seat. My DH is into motorcycles and the different groups have golf carts and scooters. This is a pic of the golf cart seat I made and embroidered. I had never down seat covers before, it was easier than I anticipated. My DH took the original seat covers apart and I used them for my pattern. I used a black faux leather upholstery fabric from JoAnns. It was very easy to embroider and sew.

I've also been very busy with the American Sewing Guild! I'm proud to say that I started a new Neighborhood Group in Baltimore City! We had ten ladies show up for our first meeting from varied backgrounds. One lady is a professor at a local college who teaches fashion merchandising, one is a former Home Ec teacher, two ladies teach sewing every Saturday at their church to neighborhood children, the others either want to learn to sew or haven't sewn since high school! We will have our meetings at The Village Learning Place! They are so generous to let us use the space on Saturdays!

Well I'm on my way to San Angelo, TX to celebrate my god parents 50th wedding anniversary! What an honor! So busy working on the seat cover, I didn't have time to make a new dress.

Until next time, happy sewing everyone!

Go Ravens!

2010-10-11T22:11:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful weekend! The weather in B-More was fantastic! I had a long weekend and spent most of it with my grand kids---that's right all three of them. They are so cute and so different! On Saturday, myoldest granddaughter and I learned to make hat with the Knifty Knitter. OMG it is so easy! I'll post some pics when we finish something.

I'm a Baltimore Girl, Born&Raised~ and PROUD OF IT!!!! Today is Columbus Day so I had the day off. I got up at 5 am like I had to go to work...I browsed a few blogs and got my sewing mojo going. Not many pics, but I completed about 10 fleece hats and this cute Ravens-themed tote bag (Simplicity 2551 View A)! I free motion quilted the cotton Ravens fabric (purchased at fabric.com) and lined it with purple cotton broadcloth. The pattern called for two inside pockets, and I added a cell phone pocket. Free motion quilting is so much fun!!!!

I'll be doing a Holiday Bazaar next month so I'm getting some things ready to sell. Do any of you participate in craft shows or bazaars...what do you make to sell?

I took my first lesson on the Enterprise. It's such a cool machine. I purchased Palette Software, so I'm trying to learn it also. I damaged the dongle for my 3D Software, what a bummer, but I can get it replaced---thank God!!! I go in next week for my first lesson on Palette....software is so mystical! I figured out some of it on my own. I also joined a Palette and 10 needle machine Yahoo Group. Did you know there is a Yahoo Group for everything!!!! OMG so many people with so much useful information!

Well that's it for tonight. Happy sewing everyone! Peace

New Machine

2010-09-28T11:15:00.000-04:00

Hello sewing friends! I'm so excited I purchased a new machine on Sunday! Babylock Enterprise! It won't arrive until Thursday---I'm contemplating taking off to play with it!

I sold my Ellegante 2 and the new proud owner, Marion, is as happy as I was with it.

Now I have to figure out a way to make this baby pay for itself. Anyone out there in the home embroidery business? Any tips, suggestions.

Thanks

Our little princess

2010-09-14T21:15:00.001-04:00

This is what I've been doing lately. Here are pics of my middle GD, Kyla. She was the flower girl in my nephew's wedding last month. This McCalls 5770 (discontinued) pattern was a bear with all the layers of tulle underneath and taking up of the layers. But looking at her come down the isle in it made it worth all the effort!!!! I used a taffeta and underlined it with silk organza. It is fully lined using the same taffeta. I choose taffeta because it really puffed up better than regular satin, which was kind of heavy. The purple sash is made out of a poly organza. She was beautiful, no one could belive I made the dress. I always find people's amazement that I make clothes so funny, how do people think ready made clothes get put together, LOL

Draping a bodice!

2010-09-14T12:18:00.001-04:00

This is a wonderful video http://ww2.ac-poitiers.fr/mdlmode/spip.php?article170 I found on the Wildginger Forum! I took a 1-day class from Sally DeMarco (Retired professor at our community collge) a couple of years ago and she taught us the basics on how to do this. She just had an awesome book "Draping Basic" published. Talk about a perfect fit! Enjoy

A Sewing Legend Will Be Missed

2010-09-07T09:59:00.000-04:00

Just learned that the great Fred Bloebaum passed away after a battle with cancer! The post said she was surrounded by family and friends. So sad. I was fortunate to have taken one of her classes at the Sewing Expo in Chantilly, VA. She was a fantastic lady and her pattern line was chic and sophisticated. I learned from her how to perfectly insert an invisible zipper using a regular zipper foot! I remember her telling us to throw away those plastic adaptors many of us used for inserting invisible zippers. I couldn't believe how easy it was to put them in with a regular zipper foot! I still have all of my samples that I made in that class.

Rest in peace Fred~~~~

Viva Las Vegas

2010-08-25T18:24:00.000-04:00

Hi all,

I'm in Vegas attending a conference for work! No sewing in Vegas, just site seeing, eating, and shopping after we leave the conf. I'm literally leaving the conf, napping for 1-2 hrs and hitting "The Strip! I'll be exhausted when I get back home! Happy sewing everyone, love the blog posts!

Go Green Inspiration

2010-08-17T22:24:00.002-04:00

Click on "Go Green Inspiration."
This girl is awesome. I love to read stories like this! The art of sewing is still alive and growing!

Happy sewing!

2010 ASG Pattern Challenge and more...

2010-08-12T21:04:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone,

I just returned from an exciting conference for ASG members held in Atlanta, GA! It was so much fun, and I got to meet so many ASG sewing friends. I took a wonderful jeans making class from Jennifer Stern. The class was from 8 - 5 pm. We actually made a muslin and tweaked it to get a perfect fit! I'll be posing pics of my progress with that later. Here I am with my favorite Loralie character! I also took a class with Patti Palmer Pletsch on fitting tips. It, too, was an excellent class. I learned how to tissue fit patterns and how to use the pre-printed alteration lines on her line of McCalls patterns to fit/alter patterns.

I finished Simplicity 2703 http://www.simplicity.com/p-1653-misses-sportswear.aspx.

It was a very simple pattern that came together very easily. I did FBA using the Patti Palmer Pletsch method . It's so easy and works superbly. I made this dress for the ASG Challenge and wore it at the Annual Conference held in Atlanta, Ga. Here's a pic of me and my new friend, Susie, from LA. She made the same dress and also the jacket.

Tee and Susie, ASG Conf 2010

This is my version of a Vera Bradley bag. I'm not a paisley flowery type LOL, this fabric reminded me of African mud cloth, but very bright and pretty. We made these at an ASG Neighborhood Group meeting, it was a lot of fun! I wasn't into making purses until I joined ASG, now I can't get enough of it!

I also found this cute fabric at conference. It's was perfect for a little boy. I have to make my grandson, Kadin, some shirts!

And lastly, these lovely things are refridgerator magnets! Gotta go Project Runway just came on!!!!!!!

Sewing Fun This Weekend

2010-08-01T22:25:00.002-04:00

I finished Simplicity 4581, a discountinued pattern. It turned out great, I did a FBA and the pattern directions were pretty stratightword and easy.

Today I went to bruch with some family and friends after church for a pre-birthday celebration! It was scrumptous! Afterwards, my youngest GD and I did some sewing. I originally started the dress she is wearing for my oldest GD, but didn't get it finished. I noticed it the other day and thought this GD could fit it. While I finished the dress, she pulled out the remaining fabric and declared she wanted to make a dress for her doll. What fun we had, I freehand cut the pattern for a top and skirt. She sewed the skirt seams and added to the rickrac trim. She was so proud of herself. Here are the results!

Finds in NYC/Stash Sewing

2010-07-09T18:58:00.002-04:00

Hi all,

My DH and I spent a lovely weekend in NYC 4th of July weekend. We saw the play Fences starring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis! It was outstanding!!! Superb acting and a wonderful story!

Needless to say DH would not let me peruse the fabric stores, and I didn't insist being that I have my own personal fabric "shop" at home! LOL But we did browse through a flee market in Hells Kitchen and came up with this wonderful dual thread stand. It used to be part of an industrial sewing machine. I got it for $8 and some change!

STASH SEWING - I'm making a cotton sundress using a piece of tangerine cotton from Italy. It has a bit of lycra in it. Very nice hand. I purchased it from Exquisite Fabrics in WDC when they were relocating! I lined it with a very light weight cotton.

I'm using Simplicity 4581 View B.. It's a 2005 discontinued pattern. I'll be adding cream piping to the midriff. I'm using size 12 and I did a FBA, and that as far as I've gotten. Will work on the midriff and skirt tomorrow. Pics to follow. Happy sewing ladies.

Happy Summer

2010-06-26T09:17:00.002-04:00

I just got back from a wonderful 7-day cruise to the eautiful Bahamas! As usual, I decided on my dress for the Captain's dinner the week before the cruise. I choose Vogue 2847. The fabric I used came from http://www.fabric.com/, it's one of $1.95 pieces! I loved the way the dress turned out, I did a FBA on a size 14, should have used a size 12, but I purchased this pattern long before I knew how to do a FBA. So I had to take it in at the sides in the bodice and in the dress itself! I got lots of compliments and had fun wearing it.

Here's the pics upon completion.

Here I am on the cruise! I also made one other prom gown, here is the pic of the dress the girl wanted.

I used Butterick 4731 for the gown base. I redrafted the bottom of 4731 and created a one shoulder bodice in Wildginger. Fabrics (sparkle netting and their Prom line) from JoAnns and the trim came from Walmart. Here's my version...

I'm back

2010-06-07T18:34:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone, hope all is well with you and yours'! I haven't had time to post a message in weeks, but I've been checking you out here and there. As usual I've been working on various projects. Didn't do a lot of prom dresses this year, just two. I have pics of the first one...I'll post the second gown later this week. In between making the dresses, I travelled to Dallas, Texas, for work. The orginal plan was to go to Dallas in early April---but the snow changed all that. While there, I spent my free time visiting my uncle who has been sick for a year----but I got visit a few fabric stores down on Harry Hines Blvd. Golden D'Or was the best!

http://www.goldendor.com/retail_store.html They had every fabric imaginable! I purchased a beautiful piece of burgundy cotton organza and silk charmuese. No idea what I'll make with it. I stayed in Dallas until Sunday, so I got to check out the Martha Pullen Sewing Market at the Arlington Convention Center. I had fun browsing the vendors and chatting with other sewers. I even sat down and sewed some labels in pillow cases for a community service project. It wet my appetite for Sewing Expo in Chantilly, VA. My hotel room is already booked!

When I returned to Baltimore, I literally sewed day and night. Ms. Jazzy chose a black taffeta with an embroidered pink organza overlay (fabrics from JoAnns) for her prom dress. Isn't she lovely!

I'm working on a few things for myself to take on my cruise. I'll post pics soon! Happy sewing

ASG Regional Meeting

2010-04-22T19:01:00.000-04:00

I attended the ASG Region One meeting this weekend in Burlington, NJ. We stayed in this quaint conference center located on Hight St. http://www.pym.org/burlingtonconference What a wonderful time we had discussing planning and program ideas for our respective chapters. I decided to write about this weekend because if it had not been for my affiliation with the American Sewing Guild our paths would probably not crossed. ASG is comprised of wonderful members from all ages and walks of life. Varied social, political, financial, and religious backgrounds make up our wonderful group. We discussed the many benefits that membership offers (discounts at over 60 different merchants, Joann Fabrics, Hancocks, and many, many on-line sewing-related vendors). We had a pajama fashion show and, of course, show n tell! There were pillows, gowns, pjs, jackets, purses, dresses, tissue box covers, quilts (hand and machine sewn), just to name of a few of the beautiful items on display.

I believe the best benefit of ASG is the friendships that blossom! I met most of these wonderful ladies last year at my first Region One meeting. When I arrived and saw those familar faces, it felt like a family reunion! Our meeting organizer, Rosemary, the President of the Philadelphia Chapter planned a wonderful and informative weekend. We visited some quaint fabric and quilt shops close by the Conference Center. Just Make it Sew, Olde City Quilts, and http://www.thevillagequilter.com/about.htm.

If you don't belong to the American Sewing Guild, please check us out www.asg.org. It's a wonderful organization, most importantly, a great group of sewing sisters!

Hello everybody, long time no see!

2010-03-18T21:38:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone, I've been very busy lately. As always I have both ends of the candle burning. LOL

I'm beginning to work on my great nephew's baptismal suit. I'm using my TNT McCalls 3063.

Here's the stole I made for my priest, he was recently named Monsignor. I lined it with a cross embossed satin brocade I purchased on my NY trip last year. It is so regal looking.

These are pictures of the uniform shirts I embroidered for my daughter's school. She teaches there. Good looking out DD. I've done about thirty so far. I'll do more as kids enroll.

This is a beautiful Vera Wang cotton pinwhell striped print with a little Lycra. The magenta is a jersey knit. The brown floral is also a jersey, all were 60" and purchased on-line from "Fabric Mart." Planning a couple of tops and a wrap dress.

This beautiful stretch satin is from Fabric.com. It was $1.95 a yd. The beautiful lace, on the other hand, was $95 a yd. I found it at Couture Fabrics in Miami, Fl. It is soooooo lush and sparkly. The pictures don't do it any justice. I see cruise gown in this one!

Here's the lace over the satin. Beautiful!

Spring has finally sprung! I'm officially not making anymore winter clothing. I'm putting all of my UFOs away until next year. My stepson will be going off to college and I will be moving my sewing room back to the basement! Yippee, I really need the room.

My stint as Pres of ASG Maryland is going great. We have lots of exciting things going on in our chapter. In May Susan Khalje and Pam Damour are presenting workshops. I'm sponsoring another fabric shopping trip to NY on May 1...if you're in NY let me know! Our annual meeting will be held in Atlanta this year, can't wait for that. We are making bags for the troops also. I'm trying to get the libraries in our area to let us put up displays in September for Sewing Awareness. So far I've got the go ahead from two in Baltimore City and one wants us to put on a sewing program! ASG is so much fun!

Until next time..p.s. I 'm enjoying all of your blogs, keep up the great work!

What a beautiful sight!

2010-02-11T14:50:00.000-05:00

I came down stairs today to take a peek outside and what did I see in my yard, this lovely red bird pecking away at the snow. Not sure if he is a Cardinal. All of the pictures I found on the Net show a Cardinal with a little black around the beak. Isn't it lovely. Sorry but this pic is through my window. When I sneaked outsidet to get a better picture, he took off. I then decided to feed the birds. Wow so many stopped to eat, but not the red bird. He looked so majestic. I think I'll make something red today! What inspiration.

I'm officially "The Bag Lady"

2010-02-09T23:03:00.000-05:00

Well I've been home since Friday, Feb 5 --- we got around 25 or more inches of snow in the greater Baltimore area. I don't know about any one else but I'm having a sewing good time! I thank God for my wonderful talent and passion for sewing!

Here's some pics of my latest creations:

These are from New Look 6574. I used a reversible oriental poly satin for the little evening bags and the black/red/gray is a quilt cotton from Joanns

Below is McCalls 4851. I used Loralie sewig themed cotton prints from http://www.fabric.com/

The lining is a satin from stash. It's only one bag, pockets are yellow on one side and green on the other. The entire bag has fusible interfacing. I loved how it turned out. I'll be making this one again!

http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m4851-products-5752.php?page_id=104

And last but not leats...a personalized tote bag for my granddaugher, Kyla, which I drafted. All of the fabric is from my stash.

More to come. I'll probably be snowed in the rest of the week!

It's snowing

2010-02-05T22:56:00.000-05:00

Well I didn't go to work today. Didn't want to get caught up in DC. I was at Giant's at 5 am....only to find out they didn't open until 6. Well I went to another all night market and they had no staff. I left a basket full of snacks in the isle when the cashier's bickered about opening another register. If you don't want to work, stay home! I ended up going back to the Giant, stopping first at Starbucks for a lowfat Cinnamon Dolce Latte! It was delicious. At 6 am the Giant was packed like it was 2 pm on a Saturday. LOL

I got some snacks and made my way back home. On the way I got a call from DD, her job was opening until 11 and her day care was closed. "Mee Mee" to the rescue! I picked up Kadin aka "Man Man" and made my way bakc home. He is ADORABLE. We had oatmeal with raisins, cinnamin and brown sugar, blueberry yogurt and juice. His mom sent him a bag of toys, but all he wanted to play with were refridgerator magnets. He has so much fun with those things. After breakfast, we headed upstairs. I dragged all his stuff along. He let me hold him a few minutes, and then it was off to the races. We played and sang! He is such a good child. After about 2 hours he crawled up in my lap, and I rocked him to sleep. He realizes that my recliner rocks. He loves it! How precious! Here's pictures of my little darling.

It started snowing in Baltimore around 11. I returned him to mommy and returned home to cook. I prepared guacamole, french onion dip, green beans, salmon cakes, brown rice, and Paula Deen's buttermilk pound cake! It's snowing like crazy in Baltimore. After checking out some blogs, I'm taking a bubble bath and heading off to bed. Hubby is all geared up to remove snow tomorrow. He has a snow blower. Men and their toys. I'll be in the sewing room! LOL

Let it snow, let it snow!!!

2010-02-02T21:35:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's snowing again in Baltimore! It's supposed to snow all night, yippee!

Guess I'll get some sewing done tomorrow!

Have a sensational sewing day!!!!!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-31T21:09:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow sewists! I haven't blogged in a long time. I've been checking in on everyone else's post. You guys are so talented! I began my term as ASG President with a retreat for the elected CAB and Liaisons. We went to the New Windsor Conference Center for 2 days. Saturday was all business. We accomplished a lot. That evening, and on Sunday, we sewed til our hearts content. I really love my sewing friends in ASG. We have lots of fun sewing-related events planned. If you don't know about us, check out our site: http://www.marylandasg.org/

You can find info for your area at http://www.asg.org/.

This silver silk jersey top was drafted in Wildginger. I purchased the fabric at A Fabric Place on Falls Rd , Baltimore. It is soooo soft and slightly irredescent. I applied crystals to the front because I made a tiny hole in it when I was trying to take out the dart. It turned out really great!Donald, Thanks for taking the pics.

My husband bought me this really nice serger trolley for Christmas!

We got must more snow this weekend that the weather man called for so this is what my husband, Donald, and I did. Recovered our kitchen chairs. I cut out the fabric and Donald covered the chairs and put them back together! We used fabric left over from the fabric I used to make my curtains (see pic below), 4 years ago. I found it in my stash. They look great in the kitchen.

Lots of sewing project looming in 2010:

for others:

1) thirteen marching band outfits

2) infant baptismal suit

3) three prom gowns

4) a graduation dress

5) monogram shirts for day care (30)

6) altar cloth for Advent season

for myself

1) sheath dress

2) spring tops/skirts

for grandkids

1) Easter outfits

for DD (she usually cuts out everything for me)

1) blouse

I also want to continue working with my granddaughter who is showing some interest in sewing.

Now that I have put this in writing, I can hear Tim Gun saying "Make it Work"! LOL

Have a sensational sewing day everyone!

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T17:59:00.003-05:00

Well it's New Year's Eve 09 and I'm sitting in my warm house thinking about the many sewing adventures I've had over the past twelve months. I made more clothes for myself and grandkids than I did last year. I began to teach my oldest granddaughter how to sew and she seems to like it. We are working on a tote bag and will get back to it after the New Year. ASG kept me quite busy with activities and exciting projects at our neighborhood group meetings and annual retreat.

Here are some pics of my granddaughter in her Christmas presents I made, she not a bit shy, LOL. The first is a fleece jumper, the second is a fleece poncho, and the last one is an Elmo pj top..

This is a top I drafted from a shirt myfriend Karen really liked. It turned out really nice. I rubbed the edges of the original top using exam paper and waxed tracing chaulk. She wore it to a party with black slacks and she said it looked great!

I also enjoyed meeting you all in the cyber world of blogging. Chatting with fellow sewists has become my favorite past time, besides sewing of course! LOL I've enjoyed learning so much from your posts. May you and your families be blessed abundantly in 2010.

HAPPY HEW YEAR!

ASG Maryland 2009 Sewing Retreat

2009-12-15T21:56:00.000-05:00

the cute little camel is my granddaughter, Kyla

Wow, I haven't written a post in so long! I've been busy doing so many things, where should I begin. I've done lots of sewing. I participated in a Christmas Bazaar at my church...did pretty good! I made fleece hat sets, cosmetic bags, bibs, and tissue box covers. I then moved on the making costomes for my first production at church. I chaired our first play! It was a lot of work, but really fun and when the kids performed this past Saturday, the tears just fell! The paly was about a group of presents who argued about being the "best present" and a manger scene where the shepards, Mary, Joseph, and the kings tell them what teh real "present" is. I made the costomes for Joseph and the three kings.

My little "man man" celebrated his 1st birthday KaDin Royal Purnell!

Twelve of my sewing buddies from ASG went on a 5-day sewing retreat, a great time was had by all! We sewed like there was no tomorrow. Blankets, hats, blouses, suits, dresses, bras, tote bags, table runners, quilts, placemats, coasters, pjs, pillow cases, ponchos, robes and more. Hats were knited and many, many embroideries were stitched. It snowed all day on Saturday; it was so beautiful! I made a lot of gifts for Christmas...I'll post pics later. Guess what I used my stash...some of my fabric was 5 yrs old!

Now I've got more pjs and a few more gifts to complete. Wonder if I'll get it all done. LOL. My daughters, granddaughters, and I will bake some goodies: cookies...choc chip, oatmeal rasiin, sugar, snickerdooles, rum balls, shortbread, pecan swirls, hawiaan bread, banana bread, pean pie..yup I bake all of this from scratch. I'm making the batters this week and swill tart baking on Sunday! I'll probably make a few new ones too!

In between all this I have dental appt--possible root canal---ugggg!

Happy Hanakkah; Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year! Be blessed!

New York Garment District

2009-11-16T21:42:00.001-05:00

I sponsored my second NY fabric shopping trip on Nov 7. Forty-four enthusiastic sewers descended upon the Garment District eager to shop til we dropped. I contacted Frank from Greengerg and Hammer, which is normally closed on Saturdays, about opening the store for our trip. He said sure, he'd be glad to open as long as we were his first stop. So when we arrived in NY we went straight to his store (http://www.greenberg-hammer.com/). We were pleasantly surprised at the door by the beautiful personalized welcome sign! Special thanks to my new friend JC for taking the picture! That's me and Erma, an ASG member from NY. Once inside, the store we were treated to mimosas and gourmet pastries! Frank and his staff were marevelous. They gave us discounts and had some merchandise marked down forus. Greenberg and Hammer has an extensive notion line, and they have an on-line catolog as well. If you are looking for a hard to find notion, check them out. I found some much needed bow tie clips, they will surely come in handy this prom season! As we left, each one of us received a pretty pink gift bag filled with sewing notions!some of the other merchants that gave us discounts included Metro Textiles, Chadick and Rosen, Mood, and Parons. I'm planning a third trip in May, maybe an overnight trip...you just can't see everything in one day! Happy sewing everyone!

Aren't we Fierce!!!!!!

2009-11-16T20:58:00.002-05:00

Oh what a night! Some ASG friends and I spent a lovely evening at the Cocoran School listening to Christian Siriano promote his new book. He gave a wonderful talk about his life before and after his big win on Project Runway! It was a wonderful and inspiring evening. After his talk, he took questions from the audience, and then autographed everyone's book! His book is really cute, filled with tips and advice on style! I think his season was one of the best! Are you still a fan of Project Runway since it moved to Lifetime? Do you think the challenges lacked creativity or were less challenging then when the show was on Bravo? Who do you think will win!

MD ASG Annual Meeting

2009-10-26T22:40:00.012-04:00

American Sewing Guild, Maryland Chapter

Saturday, October 24 we had our Annual Meeting. There were about 70 ladies in attendance. Elections were held and I was elected President! Hey this has really been my year. I got to meet President Obama and now I'm the president of our ASG Chapter!

We had about 20 ladies participate in the fashion show. We have such creative ladies in our Guild. Garment makers and quilters all showed off their creations. Check out our table decorations!

We enjoyed a scrumptious lunch of Chicken Marsala, Stuffed shells, vegetable medley, string beans, salad and a delicious sheet cake for dessert.

Every year at our Annual Meeting members donate unwanted sewing items (fabric, patterns, books, etc.) Look what I found on the stash table!

I've never sewn vintage before. I was surprised that the pattern pieces were unprinted. I can see myself in one of these beautiful dresses at the Captains Dinner on my next cruise.

What's Up Sewing Friends

2009-10-14T20:49:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone. Well I've been doing lots of things since my last post! I attended the Sewing Expo in Chantilly, VA. Two of my sewing sisters, Vivian Vaughn and Jane Backert, roomed together. Vivan and I arrived on Wednesday evening to avoid the awful morning commute from Baltimore. We hit the Expo ready to go! Jane joined us on Friday. I was the "Classroom Goddess" for Jim Suzio. He's a fabulous embroiderer, digitizer, and designer! If you have ever been to Expo, I'm sure you have seen his fabulous embroidered gowns, he calls them "knock offs." I'm not a digitizer, but I learned a lot in his class. I got a chance to walk the floor a bit before my next class. Wow, lots and lots of neat notions, all sorts of fabric and patterns. Some pattern lines I had never heard of...J Stern has some really nice looking contemporary designs. There was definitely lots more fabric at Expo this year. I was happy too see two Afro-centric fabric vendors. I picked up some afro centric fat quarters and a beautiful aqua mud cloth. On Friday, I was a "ticket taker." It amazes me every year when people start arriving at 9:00 and the brouchures clearly state that the floor doesn't open until 10 am. LOL When we get the word to let people in, was like the day after Thanksgiving at Walmart!!!! After my stint at the door (9 - 12noon), I did a little SHOPPING! I got some much needed stabilizers from the Floriani booth. There was a great booth with purse findings! OMG.

I purchased a beautiful aqua slinky from Emma Seabrooke. I did a lot of window shopping...I'm saving my $$$ for for Nov 7 NY Garment district shopping trip!!! I really enjoyed the vendors and the classes I sat in on were great. I learned some neat tips for working with fonts in embroidery from Debbie Bohn", Cynthia Guffey's Core Sewing Skills was excellent, Kathy Ruddy "The Swing Jacket," very interesting, she's been in the business for quite some time and her advice was good. Back on the home front I've begun making fleece hats/scarfs sets for our church's Chistmas bazaar. I'll post pics soon. My dear DH took a few to work and I've had a few orders. I'm working on making some sets out of Ravens fabrics. Go Ravens!

This little lady called after me when I walked by and I just had to take her home!

After Expo, I left with my friend, Earnestine! She is the best, we met at an ASG conference in San Diego. This is second time she and her husband opened up their lovely home to me after Expo so that I didn't have to head back to Baltimore right away. I'm usually exhausted by then. On Sunday, I picked up this cute pink and white basket from Hancocks for a whopping $1.75!

I also got a really nice surprise from a co-worker. His mom, 89 yrs old, had an antique machine and he asked me if I would like it. Me being a sewer couldn't say no. So I trek out to his house not knowing what to expect and low and behold this is what he gave me, complete with table!

I haven't sewn with it yet. It's so pretty! Well so long for now...I've rambled enough. Happy sewing everyone!

2009-09-25T23:04:00.001-04:00

Wow and many thanks to Trudy for awarding me the coveted "Kreativ Blogger" award---this is my first ever blog award! The rules say I must now tell you seven things you don't know about me. So here goes: 1) I just put my name on the ballot for President of the Maryland ASG Chapter.
2) Pizza is my favorite junk food.
3) The day after Thanksgiving I start making 300+ Christmas cookies (chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, sugar, snickerdoodle, peanut butter and gingerbread) for family and friends.
4. I love to play Taboo!
5. I love grocery shopping and cooking, really I do.
6. I collect African American angels and things with African American angels on them.
7. I still get goose bumps during the "Wicked Witch" scenes when I watch "The Wizard of Oz." LOL
This was very, very hard to do, now for the seven worthy blogsters:
http://moderndayozzieandharriet.blogspot.com/
http://www.ericabunker.com/
http://www.blogforbettersewing.com/
http://www.lindsaytsews.com/
http://wannsew.blogspot.com/
http://melodyesneedlenotes.blogspot.com/
http://themahoganystylist.blogspot.com/

Thanks again Trudy for the award!

Vacation Time

2009-09-12T19:23:00.012-04:00

Hi everyone, it's been awhile since I've posted anything. I'm back from a wonderful 7 day cruise of the Southern Caribbean We sailed from San Juan, PR and visited Barbados, St. Marteen, St. Crois, St. Lucia, US Virgin Islands...tropicl storm Erika kept us from the island of St. John, Antigua! My husband and I had loads of fun, probably gained a few pounds as well. The food was delicious! I enjoyed the shows and ship activities. The dancing, men's sexy leg contest, Love and Marriage, Bingo, and playing Roulette. Sorry didn't hit the jackpot, but had a lot of fun! I also me some interesting people on the ship. I managed to eek out two dresses for the cruise. The wine colored babydoll dress is from my stash. A McCalls NY Collection #5420 (circa 1991). I love this pattern, but had never made it. I did a FBA and used a poly satin from fabric.com and chiffon over a poly lining (from Oriole textiles, NY) for the skirt. Instead of tying the bow in the front I pass the ends through a rhinestone belt clip that I had in my stash. The 2nd dress was BWOF July 09 #116. The fabric was from Walmart $4 a yard! It turned out great, I plan to make BWOF dress again, but make adjustments in the bust area, maybe add about 2" to the bottom pieces. The ship had some interesting fashion pieces on display in the stairwells. Hope you enjoy the pics!

wedding apron dance

2009-08-17T20:09:00.004-04:00

Here are the pics of my first BWOF pattern. Skirt 111 from July 09. Not too pleased with it. It's high waisted and needs to be better stablized. It's a little big too. Got a great tip from Sandi's blog post. She put boning in her high-waisted skirt. I'm going to remake it and do the same and adjust the fit.

I made an apron for a special wedding dance. Pretty neat concept, each person who dances with the bride puts money in her apron pockets. I was very pleased with it. I used Casa satin from Joann's, and I personalized it with embroidery using my Ellegante II. I think it's a Catcus Punch design I bought about 4 years ago at Expo. Her matron of honor had it made for her, haven't heard if she loved it or not.

I'm working on another BWOF dress to take on my cruise, will post pics soon!

Happy sewing!

Happy Anniversary to us!

2009-08-07T23:49:00.007-04:00

My dear husband, Donald and I will celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary tomorrow, 8/8/09. I've posted some photos from that wonderfully perfect day! Wow, how time flies. Yes, I made my gown and the entire bridal party, plus the mother, aunt and MIL suits, and 3 hostess dresses. I get dizzy just thinking about it. LOL
Anyway I won't be doing any sewing tomorrow. I worked on some embroidery today. I have a client who wants a wedding dance apron. First request for one of these. I'll be using a casa satin from Joanns. I will draft a simple pattern for the apron and add a ruffle around the entire apron and add two pockets for her cash. I'm also embroidering the bride and groom's names and wedding date in the center of the apron. I'll post pics!

2009-07-30T21:18:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone, I'm in Denver this week for work. So far it's been 50 degrees and raining :( Bought my BWOF mag with me and have scoured it from cover to cover. I made a muslin of skirt #111 I think that's the right number. It came out perfect, pretty easy pattern. I plan to make it up on Saturday. I've taken this rainy time to rest! There's so much in there I want to make. I'm going on a cruise the first week of September and there are so many perfect looks for vacation. All those colored lines are intimidating, but I'm going to tackle that swimsuit cover up and one of the maxi dresses. I'm staying in a Marriott where I have Elite status. I have to use a key to get to the 18th floor! Whoo Whoo! They had a really nice welcome reception for Elite members last night. Kobe sliders for example! I plan to sleep in tomorrow and order room service for breakfast! It's supposed to reach 85 tomorrow (Friday 7/31)! Figures since I leave town around 3 pm. I must say I've enjoyed the peace and quite after the conference these past 2 nights! Wishing you all happy sewing days! Just thought about something...my birthday is Monday, August 3. Wow--

2009-07-23T11:26:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone, today I'm celebrating my 30th Anniversary with the FBI. I can't beleive it---in 1979 I was a 17 yr old girl embarking on a new career! Fresh out of high school I travelled by Greyhound bus to this mysteriously wonderful city of Washington, DC. It has been great for the most part. I've met some wonderful people along the way, and I know that the work we do has made the world a safer place for us all to live! I give God the praise for blessing me so much over the years!

Project Runway is back August 20 @ 10 pm!

2009-07-14T07:05:00.000-04:00

http://projectrungay.blogspot.com/2009/07/project-runway-season-6-meet-designers.html

2009-07-10T07:29:00.002-04:00

Wow! I just got this in the mail and I've watched non stop! If you are a visual learner like me, you will love this DVD. It has FBA instructions for use on the lastest styles. She also demonstrates on live women with realistic bodies.

Check it out, money well spent!

2009-07-07T20:42:00.006-04:00

Hope everyone enjoyed the holidays! In between BBQs and a movie I managed to create two skirts. All from my stash---the flowered cotton strecth print is nade out of an out of print Vogue pattern, and the second one I drafted myself is a yellow stretch charmeuse from Joann's with a white knit overlay, which I got from Walmart's some time ago for $4 yd, was my own pattern. It has a tiny waistband with elastic made out of the charmeuse. I used rib knit for the skirt yoke. It's inspired by a skirt that Sarah Veblen showed us when she gave a presentation to my ASG NG in June! Her garments were beautiful!

Yippee! I got my first issue of BWOF! Now I see what all the hype was about. It is really a great magazine, with so many patterns. Thanks for turning me on blog friends!

Happy sewing!

check out Project Runway winner Christain Sirano

2009-07-02T10:59:00.000-04:00

I love this guys work!

2009-06-27T21:43:00.010-04:00

My DD called me on Monday while I was in Joann fabrics returning some fabric....that's right returning some fabric। LOL She needed a dress for a funeral on Wednesday! I haven't made my daughter any clothing since the senior prom, she's now 26. I admit I was a little excited about making her something. After texting her a few pattern pics, we decided on Simplicity 2938. It was a very, very simple dress to make. I used a poly silky from Joann's that was in my stash. I cut the size 18W for the bust and the 24W for the rest of the pattern. It fit her great. I ended up taking it in 1/4 inch in the front and back seam to give it some definition. She opted not to wear a belt. She was very pleased. The neckline was very flattering.

2009-06-26T08:35:00.003-04:00

We have lost an icon! He was the greatest entertainer of all time! So sad that his life ended this way....but everyone has a birth date and a death date.

Tell someone you care about how much you love them, tomorrow is not promised to anyone.

We miss you Michael. RIP

2009-06-21T15:41:00.004-04:00

Here it is! My first custom-made card. As I said before, I saw this card in a store, but it cost $9.95. I thought to myself "I know I can make this." I am proud of the way it turned out. It will probably be my signature card/keepsake from now on!

I used white card stock for the card. I used a piece of tulle accented with silver sparkles left over from a prom gown. The wedding dress is left over fabric from my goddaughter's son's baptismal romper and the trims were in my stash! I got the hem trim from Britex in San Francisco!

2009-06-19T18:43:00.005-04:00

Hello there,

I've been away...San Antonio for work. The best thing about the trip was that I got to visit with my god parents for the weekend! They were gracious enought to travel 3 hours to pick me up and take me back to San Angelo, TX where they live. The BBQ ribs were scrumptous! Nothing like that here in MD. I had such a wonderful time, not to mention the fact that my godmother, Clara, spoiled me rotten. I have seen her since my wedding, 5 years ago this Aug 8! I slept til 10 am the first morning there! A nice hot cup of coffee and breakfast were awaiting me when I arose! She and her friend, Renata, were the best hostesses ever. They gave me a wonderful tour of San Angelo---don't kill me, but I didn't have my camera! They only had a Hancock's, Joanns packed up and left. I found a couple of nice pieces of fabric. The white with the squares is a poly/cotton blend, the black and white print is sort of a heavy gauzy, and the beautiful African queens is a cotton.

While waiting at the airport I watched season one of Project Runway! I love watching that show over and over again. I'm up to the final show. I didn't start watching until season 2.

Well I haven't gone into the sewing room since I got back last weekend. I'm going to a bridal shower tomorrow, and I went in to the store to purchase a card. I saw the cutest card that was a plain white card stock with a teny tiny wedding dress glued to the front...you know I put that $8 card back and plan to make one this evening myself! I just need to go to Walmart and get some card stock when rush hour traffic dies down.

I'm sure you've heard of Sarah Veblen from the Threads magazine. Well she is a member of my sewing guild and I will be attended a lecture on facings and linings she is giving tomorrow! I'm so excited. I love all of her advice in Threads.

I also have a project to alter a bridal party. It's a wedding gown and six dresses. They were purchased on line directly from China. They are ok, the wedding gown is really nice, they left wide seams for alterations, luckily I have to take it in. I glued the beading down so that when I take out the seams in the bodice side and back they don't fall off. The bodice is rouched. They only cost $68 so what do you expect. I have to bustle the wedding gown also. One of the bridesmaids is pregnant! I'll have to add fabric to the underskirt of her gown, luckily the chiffon overlay is pretty wide.

Well. I'm on my way to Walmart! I'll post pics of the card if it works out ok.

Happy Sewing!

2009-06-09T20:26:00.007-04:00

My lastest project was such a joy to make! My goddaughter's son was baptized this past weekend, and I got the honor of making his baptismal romper. It was made completely from fabrics in my stash. The body was from fabric I used for a wedding gown some years ago. Talk about green sewing! I was away and didn't get to attend the mass. I attended the Capital Jazz Fest at the Merriweather Post Pavillion in Columbia, MD this past weekend! It was marvelous, three of my sewing friends go every year. We spend the weekend in Columbia, MD , since we attend all three days. It's like a weekend long slumber party. Someone always has on something that they made and we tell sewing stories and swap ideas too. We heard lots of contemporary jazz; Four Play, Chaka Kahn, Will Downing, Huge Groove, George Duke, Marcus Miller, Victor Woo, Stanly Clark, Al Jarreau, and Kirk Whalum were my favorites!

I have a spa day coming up on June 22! Can't wait to get my shoulders massaged! Sitting at a sewing machine day in and day out from Jan - May is rough!

Well, here's the outfit...hope you like it!

2009-05-28T19:43:00.002-04:00

Here are a few of the beautiful fabrics I purchased during my shopping trip in the garment district in NYC! The fabrics were so beautiful, I couldn't believe how nice the quality was. Rosen and Chadick, B&Js, MOOD, Metro Textiles, and Sakhi Fabric (8th St between 37 - 38th Sts). There were also lots of other smaller stores with quite a collection! Metro Textiles is usually closed on Saturday, but he opened up the store for 3 hrs just for us. There were 25 ASG members on this venture! Here are few of my finds and what I plan to make with them. I'm not quite sure what I want to do with the green/white/black flowered fabric. It's a cotton sateen I got from MOOD. I think some kind of dress...got any ideas, let me know.

I bought the orange print stretch from Sakhi's and the cream silk jersey from Metro Textiles.

After this trip, I never want to buy fabric from JoAnns and Hancocks again!

We had so much fun, we're planning another trip in November.

proms 2009

2009-05-22T14:08:00.006-04:00

Well the last two gowns left the nest last night. The recipient's were filled with glee. In the our culture the prom gown ranks up there with a wedding gown...especially the senior prom LOL! Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Mr. President

2009-05-20T07:50:00.006-04:00

I have been sooooo busy. I've spent the last 3 weekends in hotels or someone else's house. The last weekend in April I attended an ASG Conf in Poughkeepsie, NY; the first weekend in May, my church sponsored a Catholic Daughter Convention; and Mother's day weekend I attended my "baby" sister's graduation in Winston Salem, NC! I had a wonderful time, but it really cut into my prom sewing time! However, I am almost finished. I've been sewing until 11 pm for 2 weeks to make up for it! The last dress should leave my house tomorrow evening! So far everyone has been pleased with their gowns! I promise to post pics on Friday when I finally get a breather. I'm off that day and plan to sleep in and go somewhere and have a really nice brunch. I'm not telling anyone that I'm off! Saturday is my trip to NYC! I can't wait! Like a really need more fabric---I want to check out some of the museums, there are some really great exhibits---hopefully inspiring!

I work for the FBI in DC. I had the most memorable moment in my life when President Obama came to commend us. It was awesome! I really respect him and believe he was the "change" that this nation needed. Yes, that's me (with the locs)--I can't believe I was that close to him! He shook my hand! I trembled! LOL

Take care everyone.

FEAR

False Evidence Appearing Real

Quote from Hill Harper, Actor

Commencement speaker, Winston-Salem University, 2009

1st prom gown

2009-04-23T23:30:00.022-04:00

Well my only April prom dress is complete. The young lady and her mom were very pleased! I used Wildginger software to design the dress. One down, four more to go!

This is the picture of the dress she wanted (black/red).

He Is RIsen

2009-04-18T23:46:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone,

Well I finished the altar cloth and purchased a new camera. Nikon Coolpix S560. Pretty easy to operate, has lots of bells and whistles! Here are the pics of the altar cloth I made for my church. It turned out fabulous and looked really great among the beautiful lillies that adorn the church. Easter was wonderful!

Holy Week

2009-04-10T22:46:00.001-04:00

Not much sewing this week...church on Thursday, Friday and I've decided to go to Easter Vigil on Saturday night.

I'm having the family at my house for Easter dinner after Mass, so I've been cooking all day (Friday) cupcakes in the oven as I type. LOL

I plan to sew all day tomorrow. Easter banner for the altar almost complete, just have to finish the lily embroidery and bind it. I'll post pics, promise...dropped my camera and damaged the lens, that's why I haven't posted any pics.

Any suggestions for a replacement. I looking at a NIKON digital.

Happy Easter everyone!

shopping in NY

2009-04-06T21:40:00.001-04:00

new date for shopping trip, Sat. May 23

Been doing a lot of sewing for proms and church altar cloth for Easter. Will post pics soon.

PROJECT RUNWAY

2009-04-03T22:01:00.001-04:00

It's finally coming back on this summer. It will be aired on LIFETIME!

Men of Faith

2009-03-27T19:29:00.004-04:00

Just finished a project...3 days of embroidering...13 polo shirts...

Shopping in New York

2009-03-18T20:48:00.003-04:00

NY Fabric Shopping trip has been changed to Saturday, May 23, 2009
more info: sewinggirl79@yahoo.com

sewing room blues

2009-03-11T23:02:00.000-04:00

sewing room blues

2009-03-11T22:43:00.001-04:00

I just cleaned out some of my stash! My friend is a teacher and has started a "sewing club." When she told me the girls couldn't afford to buy fabric, I said come on over to "Dressed to a Tee's." LOL

She came this past Saturday and she walked away with five XXL zip loc bags and a large box of fabrics. I also gave her patterns, books, magazines, zippers, buttons, and a sewing box! I have a sewing machine to give her as well, just have to clean it up a bit.

All of these things were in the basement mind you, not in my sewing room. Since I've cleaned out the cabinet that had the fabric, I plan to rotate the fabric in my sewing room down there. I also purchased a Janome 1600P on Saturday...my reward for being so charitable. LOL. anyway when my hubby took it upstairs to my sewing room I wanted to scream. I have to reorganize or something.

I figured if I post some pics of my room, I'd be shamed into getting it in better order so that I could post the after ones as well.

It's snowing

2009-03-02T09:37:00.001-05:00

Well they got it right this time! I've decided to play with my Pattern Editor class for Wildginger Software. I took the class over the summer and am not really good with the PE function. I need to use it for some of my prom gowns, so I'll devote a couple of hours to this today. I'll get some sewing in later.

Enjoy your day!

p