Inspiration

  The other day the kids and I went to our library to see what we could see.  In all the wonderful stacks of books I came across Handmade Home by Amanda Blake Soule.  I cannot tell you how much I love this book.  There is such a great mix of things to do with the kids, for kids, for others, for yourself.  Fantastic.  The best part is that you use what you have, what you thrift, what you find. 

 I am thinking that a paper mache bowl for the boys to keep all those spare Lego pieces in would be good.  Those little bits wander ALL over house.  There is a wonderful beach blanket that I have my eye on making as well.  Actually,  there is much I have my eye on.  Rather than try and cram it into the time allowed by the library, a book purchase maybe in order.  Isn't that the beauty of trying out craft books from your local library?!  If you love a book, just maybe it works its way into your home permanently.

An Upcycle Project For Earth Day

Happy Earth Day!!  In honor of today, I have a fun little project that I just finished up.  I used the tutorial from Craftopia on how to refashion a tee-shirt.  She is such a crafty girl. I LOVE this project.  It took me just a couple of hours to make.  I forgot to take a picture of the "before" shirt, sorry! Anyway, here is the finished project.

The Lined Pouch

  April's sewing project is all done!! YEAH!!  This month the challenge was to sew something lined.  Indeed it was a challenge.  I have an aversion to things lined.  Not sure why this is.  All those cute bags, a very pretty skirt, and other endless possibilities are found with a lining.  My thinking was to sew something small. The idea of a lined pouch sounded appealing  Not so scary, right?? You can use material that is lying around, and there are LOTS of great tutorials out there.  I used the tutorial found on tweleve22. 

I am finding that with the warmer weather coming, Ric Rac is catching my eye more and more.  Thought this would be a fun project to try it out.

Of course here is a picture of what this project is all about, the lining.  Not the best job, nor is it a perfect fit.  Just happy that I did it and it IS functional!

 Now that I have one done, I would not be so scared to try another. Might be good to have a couple of these handy for summer.  Cheers!!

A long lost friend

It has been such a long time since I have posted anything about knitting.  My world has been full of sewing and crafty things going on with the kids.  I understand the natural ebb and flow of these things.  The spurts of knitting then sewing then knitting then sewing.  Maybe it is time to pick up the needles again.  While I am STILL working on these for my hubby, something of a quick knit is on order.  I think that Shroom maybe the answer.  A way to get into the stash, create something quick, cute, and have some fiber therapy at the same time.  Right now I am loving Que Sera out right now on Knitty. 

  How cute is that sweater??!!  Of course I LOVE the entire outfit.  The sweater is MUCH more of a challenge and I think when I am back in full knitting mode, it maybe a possibility.  In the meantime, I will start slow with quick projects, try to finish up what is on the needles now, and get those sewing projects done.  Sounds like a crafty house cleaning project?! 

A Fun Weekend

Our weekend was crafty, laughable, and had a moment or two of wonder.

Making Quick Use Of An Old Sheet

   I am going to confess that I am huge fan of sleeping in long night gowns or skirts.  I LOVE to curl up my feet underneath while relaxing.  It is like a blanket, but not so heavy.  Perfect for reading, watching t.v. or knitting.  This past week I was checking out the local thrift stores and found a sheet that was so soft and inviting. It is the perfect weight for this fantastic spring weather we are having.  While the print was not my favorite, the feel won me over.  I took it home, gave it a wash, and sat down at the serger. 

While making a sleep skirt, it must be long enough for curl up in and allow for lots of movement. I like mine at the tops of my feet.

The skirt consisted of two side seams, the waistband (which was just a simple elastic one) and finishing off the hem.  I just surged the hem to keep it simple.  In fact I just surged the entire skirt.  Of course that is not necessary. 

Then voila, the skirt is done and ready to relax in.  I was able to finish reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in total comfort!  This particular sheet had a bit of flannel feel to it. I might be on the lookout for something more crisp and with a high thread count for the hot summer days.

You just never know what a trip to the thrift store will bring.  Of course other treasures were found, but that is for another post!

Something Lined

 The month of April brings about a new sewing challenge.  Something lined.   I have been thinking this over for some time now. I am still not sure on what exactly to sew.  A skirt? a bag? WAIT.....WAIT..... I have it! I think a zipper pouch is just the way to go!! A handy item to have on you.  Love that one can work right out of your stash fabric and  have it done in a day!!  I think I love this idea! YEAH!!   Ideas can be found from Sew Mama Sew. Thinking of this by twelve 22

Spring Break.....

 Running in the sprinkler, eating icy pops, tank tops, sunny lazy days.  This is NOT summer, this has been our APRIL weather for last couple of days!! We are kicking off spring break here and it is in the low 80's. A bit unusual for Michigan I would say.  We are trying to take full advantage.  Yesterday we had a picnic in the backyard which has once again inspired me to make this quilt. Over at Sew Mama Sew you can find instructions for this simple picnic blanket with rock pockets.

 We are also working on a project that comes from the always entertaining blog, MADE . We are working on the peeps project for Easter.  My mom has a tree (well actually it is a rather large branch) that she decorates with the holidays.  So the boys have chosen to help decorate this years celebration with the bunnies. 

Our future bunnies are awaiting the finishing touches!  So far no pink, but maybe mom will step in and make her own pink peep bunnies. 

And finally, we cannon enjoy the warm weather without a little hooping in the yard.  The oldest is getting MUCH better and enjoys hooping more this year.  Had a little re-tape party with the boys. Finished one hoop and then took it out for a test drive. 

Here is to more fun in the sun while it lasts.  I hear that it won't.  In the meantime, we will enjoy the sun, sip refreshing beverages, eat from the grill, and enjoy!