Loving the New Skirt!

Take a look at my newly-sewn skirt---Simplicity Threads Collection 4146. The pattern was easy to sew, and I plan on making at least one more in this pattern. I pretty much followed the instructions, except that I lined the skirt and used an invisible zipper. The lining fabric is a dark brown....and I won't have to wear a slip! I was not pleased with the "grosgrain" ribbon I used on the inside waist because it didn't have any stretch when I tried steaming it into a slight curve. I don't think it was real grosgrain. I'm going to do some research on waist treatments because I like this method, just not the pseudo-grosgrain from WalMart. Any suggestions from those of you with experience? What about petersham? I've never used it. Overall though, the waist treatment came out fine, and I am pleased with the skirt. I think I'll wear it a lot this summer.




Now that Emily finally started growing some hair, it's coming in all curly and blonde. She reminds me a lot of when Heather was this age. We call Emily our little curlylocks. As for my hair....well, yes, I really do need a haircut!
Ruth

Busy Days are Here Again

It's been awhile since I've written here. With all the end of the school year activities, April and May are always busy months for us. I have about 10 posts in my mind that I've been wanting to blog about, but I've not been able to take the time at the computer to do so. In the midst of the busy-ness, I have been doing a bit of sewing and knitting. Three days ago Jessica and I went to Hobby Lobby to look at fabric, and I came home with two pieces of fabric destined to become skirts. Well, one of the skirts is already finished! I just love quick sews! I'll try to get a picture taken of the finished skirt, but here is a picture of the fabric--in my new favorite color, brown.



Also, two weeks ago I cast on the cardigan sweater for Emily. I even surprised myself and knit a gauge swatch first. Well, I "got" gauge with the test swatch, so tell me why is the sweater coming out bigger than it's supposed to? I really don't mind, however, because I know Emily will grow into the sweater eventually. And as quickly as she's growing now, it will probably fit her just perfectly this coming fall. I only hope I have enough yarn to finish it. :-)


Another busy week ahead! I'll catch up when I can.
Ruth

Easter Dresses

Emily

3 Sisters

Ellen's Dress: Simplicity 3902, size 10, lengthened to size 12 in bodice and skirt.
Changes made: I lined the bodice instead of using a facing. I didn't follow the instructions for applying the lace; I sewed the lace ends into the seams instead of just turning them under and tacking them down. This dress went together quickly and easily. I was a bit worried about mitering the lace around the neck edge and getting the lace ends to line up evenly, but everything worked out right the first try! I even finished the dress 2 days before Easter. :-)




Emily's Dress: The pattern is Ellen McCarn's Basic Yoke pattern in a size 2. The smocking pattern is my own adaption of "Christy," also by Ellen McCarn. Even with a six-inch hem, the dress is a bit too long on Emmy. However, the bodice width is just right. If Emily slims down by next year it will probably still fit her then.

Ruth

Birthday Loot

Wahoo! On my birthday yesterday I was excited to receive Knit Picks Options circular knitting needles from Mark, a knitting bag (really a tote bag) from Katie, and Tofutsies sock yarn from Jessica and Justin! My kind of loot! Oh, and I can't forget the "I'm Addicted" Sudoku mug that Ellen gave me! What a nice family I have!

Coffee, Sudoku, Knitting, and Chocolate (of course!) all go so well together! Hmmm..... I think I'll get off the computer and go knit some chocolate coffee while I work a Sudoku puzzle! :-)

Ruth
Wow! Every sentence of this post ends with an exclamation point!