Sew Cute Babe

Hello? Anyone out there?

2010-05-22T20:19:00.007-05:00

I am still alive!! It's taken a year, but I've finished school (well, the first part of it!!) And have slowly begun crafting again! It just took 2 days after graduation to get started! It feels nice! My poor sewing machine hasn't seen the light of day since June 2009 - horrible isn't it? I have some crafting pictures to share, but they'll have to wait until I give the gifts :) Just wanted to say hello!!

-Sarah-

Hi again!

2009-10-18T09:26:00.007-05:00

Wow, It's been FOREVER since I've updated this blog. Yes, I am still alive (though it feels like I've been run over by a train...more than once) I am half way done with my 2nd semester of nursing school and I am truly exhausted. I live and breathe for Mother's Day right now (graudation weekend!!!!) I haven't even had the chance to get my sewing machine out since June 4. Ohhh, I miss it terribly.

Anyways, I realized that I left some projects on here unfinished - I never came back to show the final product. I had a couple of email inquiries this past week from this blog, so I thought I'd better at least show what I did finish before school took over my life!!

So....
Remember the wreath-looking object with the diapers? This is what turned out!! It was a blast to make and soo cute at the shower! And that ginormous diaper cake was the centerpiece. Over 150 diapers!!!

These items all went to a special baby who has been desperately wanted for such a very long time. I love sewing for families like that. :)

Looking for some help!

2009-04-20T18:31:00.001-05:00

Just wondering if any of my readers tinker around with html code. I have a domain for Sew Cute Babe and would like to transfer my blog instead of using blogger! I have a wordpress theme that I'd like to you, only have no clue to how do all of these! Just wondering if anyone is familiar with this and would like to help. I can either pay you with money or crafting goodies!!! Just shoot me an email if you'd be interested! sea _ ya at hotmail dot com!

Thanks!
Sarah

Is 1615 my lucky number?

2009-04-18T12:49:00.003-05:00

I hope so, because if it is...I would be the winner of a brand new Marie Osmond 200 Quilter’s Companion! How awesome would that be?! You Can Make This is one of my all-time favorite sewing sites and they've recently launched a new division - You Can Quilt This How cool is that? Maybe after I finish nursing school I will have the chance to really sit down and learn to quilt! I'm keeping my fingers, toes, and eyes crossed that one of my entries is the winner! If you like to quilt or have always wanted to learn, head over to the new site and check it out - they have some nice stuff!!!

-Sarah

p.s. If you're one of my regular readers and have wondered if I fell off the face of the Earth, rest assured that I have not. However, my darling toddler flooded out home last week and we've been in limbo for a while. If you want to see pictures and hear more details, you can head over to my photography blog and check it out! I've been crafting here in the hotel and hopefully will be able to post some soon!!

All Sorts of Things!

2009-04-01T19:51:00.005-05:00

Here are some of my latest projects! I still have many more to go before I'm finally caught up. Two weeks in the hospital with a baby really slowed me down!! I'm excited that after this weekend I can show a few more completed projects!

Enjoy!
-Sarah-

Some Bunny's A Winner....

2009-04-01T14:29:00.002-05:00

And that some bunny is Covered In Crafts Congrats! And I can I mention here that I am *totally* jealous that she has a cricut!!!!

Bunny Bow Tutorial & A Giveaway!

2009-03-29T18:28:00.022-05:00

My mom has been here visiting this week and I've been crafting like crazy. I had to make up some bows to send back with her for her cousin's store at home. I figured that since I was making them anyway, I may as well create a tutorial! So, there ya have, it... here's a tutorial to make your own bunny bow! Now, this is my first time writing out directions, so let me know if it's too hard to figure out!

Now, for the giveaway.... One lucky reader will win one of these bunny bows!! All you need to do is leave a comment. If you want a second entry, give a shout out on your blog and leave a second comment with the link! A third entry is available if you twitter this give away! Just leave a third comment with your twitter link! (Be sure and follow me... maddiedean) Since Easter is just around the corner, this will be a short contest! I'll draw a winner on Wednesday, April 1!! Nope, not an April Fools Joke!! :)

-Sarah-

PS. If your name is Susie Lee, Vicky Jones or Misty Green, you are not eligible as you have bows headed your way shortly :)

*This tutorial was created for your personal use. I do not care if you make bows using it and sell them. However, I do care if you sell my tutorial. It's simple: Don't! No images may be used without my written consent (exception - using one to give a shout on your blog!)

Slowly but surely

2009-03-26T14:57:00.004-05:00

Some of you probably thought I'd forgotten about my armoire repurpose project, armoire repurpose project! Well, let me assure you that I haven't. How could I when it was taking up a huge chunk of my husband's garage :) A few weeks ago my little brother came to spend the weekend and I put him to work painting. It was painfully slow so he and Mike decided that spray paint would work just as well! We put it back in the garage to work on later. That later was last weekend. Mike pulled it out of the garage again (it isn't exactly light!) and attacked it with 4 cans of spray pain! It looks so much better! After some sweet talking to a neighbor, they got it moved into Madeline's room. I knew it would be a perfect fit between her double closet doors, but I had NO IDEA how deep that sucker was! It's huge!! Oh well, I need the space so I will just decorate around it. My mom is here visiting this week and she's helping me to get it all organized. The main section doesn't have shelves yet, but I'm working on the drawers. I'm really excited that the exterior of the doors have magnetic paint! I that that stuff is soo cool!!! The inside door with the painter's tape will have a coat of chalk board paint on it in a few days! So, it'll be a magnetic, chalkbard door... perfect for keeping track of upcoming projects! The other door is going to covered in scraps from Mike's peg board in the garage. It'll be great to keep scissors, rulers and other stuff. I plan on making fabric baskets to hold other odds & ends once the shelves are built. I know that not much has been done yet, but just wanted to show that I hadn't forgotten about it :)

-Sarah-

My latest project....

2009-03-22T01:49:00.003-05:00

Here's a glimpse at my latest work... can't show the finished project until after the shower! Just thought it'd make a good excuse to post something since it'd been a while :)

-Sarah-

Another Winner

2009-03-18T12:01:00.001-05:00

Congrats to Allison of Displaced Texan!!!

Congrats to Allison!!!

Another Giveaway!

2009-03-11T00:19:00.001-05:00

Alrighty, time for another give away! I've mentioned before that I'm a frequent tester for YCMT so I always have little projects laying around. Most of the time, it's clothing that I'll use for Aiden or MJ. Well, my latest test was a purse. I have a closet full of purses I never carry, so this one needs to find a new home!!!

Want it to be yours?? All you need to do is leave me a comment saying that you want it. Really Really want it?? Do a shout out on your blog and link back here. Leave me a 2nd comment with the link to your blog. (Yes, you are welcome to swipe this image to put in your blog if you'd like!) Super duper have-to-have-it? Become a follower!

So, there ya have it! 3 easy-peasy ways to win this handbag. I will draw a winner on Wednesday, March 18th. Maybe it'll be your lucky day!!

Kozypal Cart Covers ROCK - 1/2 off Sale!!!

2009-03-06T06:24:00.000-06:00

I bought my first kozypal when I was pregnant with Aiden and loved it! I wasn't the germ-freak-first-time-mom but the thought of him sitting in the nasty grocery carts was enough to make my stomach weak. I had just seen the new fabric by Alexander Henry when I discovered Melissa's company. I ordered a custom cover made with the Maxfield print and it was a match made heaven! We've used that thing like crazy!! We used it a lot in restaurant high chairs as well - mainly because it worked as a stuffer when he was too small and wobbled too much. The toy loops are handy-dandy too!

Guess what!!! They are having a 50% off sale!!! From 12pm to 12 midnight, today only!!!

If you have a baby gift to give, I can't recommend these enough. I promise I don't work for Melissa :) They are beautifully packaged and make a wonderful gift! They'll be much longer lasting than onesies and other baby gifts! You can use it until the kiddo no longer rides in the front of the cart!

Now, the reason for the sale was to clear out inventory before they make their big move, so the selection may be a bit slim! However, still go check them out! They're adorable!!

-Sarah-

Miss MJ sporting her new cover!!!

Here is Aiden in his. He's just about the same age that MJ is now!!

Click here to go to Kozy Pal and snag your own super-cute cover for 1/2 the price!!!

Special Delivery

2009-03-04T22:48:00.005-06:00

This lovely gown went to Miss Kristina, a sweet Army wife that I met online. She and her husband are expecting their first baby anyday now! She'll definitely be the cutest mom on that L&D floor! The baby's gender is a surprise so I'm looking foward to seeing pictures of her sporting this designer gown as well as finding out what they had!! Good luck Kristina, my prayers are for a swift and safe delivery!!

-Sarah-
You can see the *original* designer gown here

My Fairy Landed!!

2009-03-04T18:21:00.005-06:00

I absolutely love participating in sewing swaps! I enjoy sewing for people I don't know (though I'm always scared they won't like my stuff!!!) And I LOVE getting yummy goodies in the mail. This round of swapping was no different. I ran into a snag getting my stuff sent due to MJ spending some time in the hospital, but I think I'm almost caught up on other things so I can devote more time to sewing! However, this weekend my fairy landed and brought me some adorable gifts!!! Generally we don't don't know who our fairy is, but I'm too nosey to settle for that! So, be sure to leave Chelsea, of Late Bloomer Crafts, some love as she was the one behind these super-cute gifts! Thanks Chelsea, I love it all!!!!

-Sarah-

This quilt is adorable! Perfect size for a wall! It's really fitting given my new obsession with quilting! I want to learn *so* bad!!

Knitted doll for Miss MJ! It's the perfect size!

Mini Draw-String bag for Aiden. Not only is it just the perfect size for his cars, the fabric is his *favorite* things "fireducksambances". That's how he says it, all one word :)

She also sent a coffee cozy, but it made hasty departure to Mike's office, so I don't have a picture of it!

Tired of being quiet... a little bit of WIP

2009-02-26T14:15:00.008-06:00

Alright, this blog is getting too neglected! I think I'm fairly certain that a few mamas don't read this, so I'm going to post some work-in-progress pictures. Just in case though, I'm not going to spill the beans on what the end-items are :) I feel like I'm drowning in sewing, crafting and photography to-dos!! Spending a week in the hospital with Madeline really set me behind! I know I'll catch up though!!!!

-Sarah-

Just 'Sit On It' Sarah

2009-02-16T13:42:00.002-06:00

It's been a while since I've posted something crafty, and well, I have good reason. I have lots of projects going on... but I can't share them yet! I'm participating in another sewing swap (yeah for TBW!) and since I don't know if my fairee reads my blog, I'm going to keep mum! But suffice it to say that her gifts are adorable! I can't wait to get them finished and eventually be able to share them here!! Another project involves lots and lots of diapers! Another project has thousands of ribbons (okay, more like hundreds maybe), Styrofoam and moss!! Got some cupcakes and cakes in the works. Trust me, I've been busy! It won't be long before I can share it all :) In the meantime, if you're reading this and are familiar with the 'White Bible Ceremony' done for bridal showers, shoot me an email. I want to adapt it to fit a baby shower :)

-Sarah-

Do Something BIG!

2009-02-07T23:58:00.002-06:00

I, rather my mom, has a closet full of formal gowns that will never see the light of day on my body again. Who was I kidding when I thought they'd fit and I'd wear them all again?? My parents are in the process of moving and my lovely mother saw fit that I take possession of the gowns. Trust me, that didn't thrill my husband, at all. Well, my sweet friend Suzette has saved the day! She is a teacher in the Mississippi Delta and works with inner-city, severely under-privileged kids. They are wanting to have the "prom of their dreams" - only most of these kids can't imagine being able to afford one gown, much less the 7 in my closet! Suzette is asking for donations - either monetarily or in the form of dress. I know I'm not the only one who has hoarded these beauties!! The following is the email I received from Suzette. I have taken out her contact information for security's sake, but if you are interested in helping her and these students out, please leave a message with your email and I will forward it along! Please, help me help Suzette help these deserving students!

God Bless!
Sarah

P.S. I have something special for each and every reader who donates a dress!!! All you need to do is put a note in with the gown letting Suzette know that you're a Sew Cute Babe reader (please include your email!) and she'll give me the list! So, give a little and get a little - doesn't get much better than that!!!!

Dear Friends and Family,

My name is Suzette Matthews and I recently graduated from Texas Tech University and moved to the Mississippi Delta in an effort to help poverty stricken schools with Teach for America. For those of you who are not familiar with TFA, it is a program for "recent college graduates of all majors and career interests and working professionals to commit two years to teach in urban and rural school.in our highest-poverty communities" (www.teachforamerica.org). Upon moving to the Delta, I have experienced a number of unimaginable challenges in the classroom and outside of it. My students are exceptionally poor and very much behind academically and socially. Although my students suffer horrible injustices everyday, I feel as if they should have somewhat of a normal high school education, academically and in extra-curriculars. With this being said, my students would like to put on a prom this year and have been saving their money to have the best prom in high school history. This is a great feat for them, since their families do not have money to buy them clothes to wear to school, much less for prom. The school district has been kind enough to give the Junior class money to host the prom, but by no means is it going to make ends meet. The girls cannot afford dresses and the boys cannot afford tuxes. I know that what a person wears to prom shouldn't really matter, but when you think back to your own high school days, you would have been mortified if you did not have a dress to wear to prom, only your school uniform. I am forever grateful that I grew up in the community that I did and never had to worry about this. I know that after I wore my dresses once, I never wore them again; they just hung in my closet. So, with help from surrounding communities and you, I know that I can find enough dresses for my students to have the prom they've always dreamt of. What I am asking is that you look through your daughter's old formal dresses and perhaps yours and donate them to the students at Ruleville Central High School. This would be a great donation for a tax write-off and would also help you get a jump start on your spring cleaning. If you can participate in anyway possible it would mean the world to my students. The deadline to donate will be 2/25 (Wednesday).

We plan to have a fun bazaar for the girls and help them choose a wonderful dress.

I would also like to thank all of you who donated books and money for my classroom. We now have a great lending library that I run right out of my classroom. I know that these books are making a difference for my students.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Suzette Matthews

CPSIA Lead-Test Law has been DELAYED!

2009-01-31T21:07:00.002-06:00

Craftzine

Thanks to the incredible grassroots movement against the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which would have gone into effect on February 10, 2009, the commission that created the law has voted to stay the legislation for one year.

"The stay of enforcement provides some temporary, limited relief to the crafters, children's garment manufacturers and toy makers who had been subject to the testing and certification required under the CPSIA. These businesses will not need to issue certificates based on testing of their products until additional decisions are issued by the Commission."

Read the full statement here.

Senator Jim DeMint from South Carolina has sponsored an amendment in order to reform the law.

It's certainly not a done deal, but it's a step in the right direction.

Houston, We have a WINNER!

2009-01-31T02:06:00.002-06:00

Well folks, my first-ever give away has come to a close. It has been exciting for me and I look forward to doing this more often! Actually, if you haven't already subscribed to this blog, you may want to soon... I promise a give away will be poping up in the very near future....as I have something special to celebrate!!

-Sarah-

Lucky Reader #29 happens to be Ms. Jennifer of Happily Ever After.

CONGRATS JENNIFER!! I will be contacting you soon for shipping details!

New Undies

2009-01-30T09:37:00.000-06:00

I received another pattern to test this week and it couldn't have come at a better time! My newly potty-trained kiddo got some new undies! The pattern is for super easy boxer-briefs. Each pair takes very little fabric. You can get 3 pair from 5/8yd of knit! How awesome at that. The pattern isn't available to the public yet, but I promise to let you know when it is!!

-Sarah-

I promise I feed that kid!! (notice his Elmo slippers... took some clothes to the consignment shop today and came home with those. I'm telling you, he's obsessed with Elmo... even if they are almost 3 sizes too big!!!)

Old News

2009-01-29T11:16:00.000-06:00

I participated in a sewing swap several months back and since our identity was kept secret from our partner, I never posted my goodies... I wasn't sure if the mama read my blog or not. Well, another swap round has begun and I am super anxious to receive my assignment. In the meantime, I guess I'll share the goodies I sent out!!

-Sarah-

CPSIA Blog In - Bloggers Unite!

2009-01-28T09:26:00.001-06:00

As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.

Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.

The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.

How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:

To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.

To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322

To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.

To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.

To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.

To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.

To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html

To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.

To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.

If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html

And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html

Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.

Fluffy Mail and Square Swaps!!

2009-01-27T07:24:00.000-06:00

One of my goals for '09 is to learn how to quilt. Well, I'm off to a good start! I just received a box of quilting feet for my machine and I've signed up for my first square swap! I'm super excited. Even more exciting? I made all 24 of my squares from scrap fabrics. No Spending! WooHoo! Now I just have to figure out what to do with the squares I receive! Feel free to leave a comment with a link to your favorite quilt pattern to tutorial...

My squares... Need to get these to the PO, Tonight!

My new feet!

Check out the new fluffy that showed up on my door step today! Can't wait to get started on some new projects! Gonna have to wait until I get home from Perryton though!

Woohoo - It's a Giveaway!

2009-01-26T10:00:00.006-06:00

*Closed* thanks to all who participated & Congrats to Jennifer!!

I've been dying to have a giveaway for several weeks now and since my favorite blog (Bloggy Giveaways) is hosting their Quarterly Carnival, I thought now would be the PERFECT time for my very1st giveaway...

So, what will my lucky reader be winning?? A luxurious hand-dyed, 100% silk habotai scarf with over 650 glass beads. (Well over 6 hours worth of HGTV for me to complete the beading!!) Sorry, my favorite shirt stays with me :)

To Enter:

Just leave a quick comment letting me know that you want to win!

(Optional) For extra entries:

Are you a Subscriber? Just let me know you’re subscribed to Sew Cute Babe in an additional comment.

Blog about this giveaway and include your blog link in an additional comment.

Stumble my blog page (www.sewcutebabe.blogspot.com) and leave me your Stumble Upon name in an additional comment.

Ask me a question, any question. I will have a special post answering some of them...

*The Fine Print*
The winner will be randomly drawn at 10:00pm CST on January 30, 2009. The winner will be posted here as well as notified by email. Since this give away is open to both bloggers & non-bloggers, please make sure I have a way to contact you if your comment does not link back to your blog! Sorry, at this time, the giveaway is only available to US readers. Winner will have 4 business days to respond before another name is drawn. Good Luck Everyone!!

I Spy.... Spongebob?

2009-01-25T20:29:00.004-06:00

Have you seen the ever-popular I Spy bags? I think they are so cute and love how educational they are. Even my 2 year old likes to play with them! Well, I needed to come up with a birthday present for a friend's 3 year old and thought an I Spy bag would be *perfect*. Then I decided I wanted to incorporate Sponge Bob somehow as the little guy is a big fan of the cartoon. Ah Ha! It came to be at about 2am. Take a plush sponge bob, desconstruct it a bit, fill with trinkets and polly pellets, resew and voila! An I spy Sponge Bob. It really was easy to do. If you try this, I highly recommend re-stitching over all existing seams as the factory job isn't suitable for holding some like pellets that don't need to be in the reach of little kids! If I were to do it again, I would adjust it even more so that the toy was of a flat shape rather than a cube....I think it would make it easier for little fingers to find the trinkets. At any rate, I thought it was cute!

-Sarah-

Change for America... Is there hope for the CPSIA??

2009-01-14T20:27:00.003-06:00

Alright, I'll make no bones about it. I am not an Obama fan. However, since majority of America felt he was right to be the next leader of our nation, I'm just going to sit back and hold on for the ride. Most of you know by now that I've been a bit upset about the CPSIA regulations. I stumbled across a website this evening that is trying to help Mr. Obama truly change America. The top 10 voted on issues will be presented to the new President shortly after his inaguration next week. Right now, the CPSIA regulations ranks at #5! Woohoo. So, here is the chance for him to put money where is mouth is. If he truly wants to change America, here's to hoping that he sees the serious implications that this law has on small business owners in American and realizes that our economy that is already on the brink of disaster cannot handle something like this. I understand the need for safer children's product, really, I do.. But this has gone too far. Lead in baby blankets? Come on... those would be mighty heavy blankets. I see the stupid warnings for the Digital TV transition but I've yet to see anything mentioned about this legilslation on national tv! The government has spent 1.3 billion dollars on the digital tv tranisiton and has now requested an extension because the grant money to help purchase the converter box has run out. Did I mention that that bill was in the works for FOUR YEARS!!! So, the CPSIA has had 6 months and $0 to help anyone... does this not seem wrong to anyone else???!?!?!

"Governments tend not to solve problems, only to rearrange them" - Ronald Reagan

Now, with all that being said, please take a moment to go vote and help keep the CPSIA legistlation in the Top 10 things that need to be changed in America!

Delightfully Colorful

2009-01-11T12:58:00.003-06:00

A little late posting this, but oh well. I love it when our church has pot-luck dinners... I get so excited to make new things and things that I love to eat, but wouldn't normally fix my family. Well, New Year's Eve was no different. We had tons and tons of food, and I added my fair share. I made my favorite dishes, sweet corn, okra salad, sausage balls and hug pretzels. I had seen the pretzels at a wedding I photographed this summer but forgot about them until I saw them on another blog a few weeks ago. Sure wish I could remember where though! I thought New Years would be a great excuse to make a simple, but yummy snack!! Look at how bright and colorful they are!!!

What you need:
1 pgk small pretzels
2 pks Hershey Hugs
1 lg pkg M&M's

Unwrap all hygs. Pre-heat your oven to 200. Lay pretzels out on baking sheet and place one hug in the center of each pretzel. Place in oven for 3-5 minutes - just long enough to soften the hug, you don't want to melt it. Take sheet out of oven then place one M&M on top of each softened hug and Voila - you're done (of course, they need to cool and re-harden before you can stack them!) With all of the awesome colors you can get M&M's in now, this could be very personalized for birthdays, super bowl, etc. (I'm typing all of this one-handed, so if you would like the recipe for any thing else I listed, just leave a comment and I'll get it posted!)

Enjoy!
Sarah

A touch of Class

2009-01-10T14:20:00.002-06:00

Finished up another ring sling gift last night. 'Aunt' Karen is going to keep me sewing, CPSIA or bust :) I love love love the look of black and white, so classy and timeless!! It was a bit cold outside today so I had to go about modeling this just a bit different... plus, I was afraid that if I put it on with Madeline I'd fall in love and be forced to keep it in my own stash. Instead, I brought out my lovely 25 year old model (the doll, not the mannequin) Such a sweetie isn't she? Want to know the BEST part of this sling?? Linen is 60" wide and I bought a yard of the 'Diamond Eye' fabric so I have enough to make me one too. Woohoo!!

-Sarah-

Special thanks to Jan Andrea and Celg for their awesome tutorials. This was a new shoulder-style for me and those two made it super easy to understand!

Feeling a bit ambitious here!

2009-01-05T13:28:00.000-06:00

I am so so excited about my next project - though it is going to be a huge time-suck! I've dreamed about thrifting a piece of furniture and doing something funky to it for a long time. Mike and I have been working hard on purging our home and really getting things back in order. Things are coming along well but the kitchen is a disaster. I have proclaimed it to be my sewing area and it's such an eye sore and sadly, the first thing people see when they walk in our house. (I got so embarrassed during Christmas when the FedEx or ups guy would come by) I've had some of my crafting stuff in Madeline's closet, but there simply isn't enough space. I've been researching sewing cabinets and sheesh, those things aren't cheap. Besides, I really didn't know what I was looking for. I've had all of my kitchen mess I can handle, so I started browsing Craigslist, not even really knowing what to search for. Then I found it!!! The perfect armoire for me to re purpose for a sewing space! It was well built and a great price. (It was also my late-grandmother's preferred furniture brand - I'm sure she rolled in her grave at the thought of me destructing it!) The previous owners used it as an entertainment center, so the back will need to be replaced... no biggie there. Since at one time it had shelves there are handy notches already cut in the sides and bottoms. I plan on having Mike design shelves for the main interior that fit around my sewing machine! I'm most excited about the inside of the doors! On one side, I will put the peg board from the garage and some hooks to hold scissors, quilting rulers and other things of that nature. On the other side, I will use cork board along with chalkboard paint to have a message center to keep track of current orders and on-going projects as well as a mile-long to-do list! The drawers are nice and deep and will be great for storing all sorts of stuff. I've been saving all of MJ's baby food jars to fill with buttons and other beading stuff. Is it obvious yet how darn excited I am???

Now comes the most important part - the exterior. To be honest, I have NO IDEA! I thought about decoupaging some fabric on the panels - it has 6 that would be perfect for that. But I run into a problem of WHAT fabric. Since this large piece of furniture will have to go in MJ's room, I'd prefer for it to coordinate with her bedding (this and this) I really wish I could paint it a winter white with distressed edges like the frames and clock in her room, but I'm afraid it would really stick out since the rest of the furniture is bright white! I like the toile and stars from the Glenna jean bedding, but I also love the bunnies... *sigh* I just don't know what to do!!!! I've done lots of image browsing on Flickr and Google and did seethis I think it's do-able (not in blue of course) But I'm going to have to find someone who is good with paints as I am NOT! I guess I'm hoping that a readers will give me some fantastic ideas, and soon. I need to get this done as quickly as possible so I can get everything organized and put away before school resumes in June!

Mike happened to mention that I could sell his dresser drawers. So rather than sell these, I think I'm going to re-do them to match the armoire to give miss MJ even more storage in her room!! Yahhoo!

And while we're on the subject of Madeine's room... Look at this super cute idea from the fabulous Martha Stewart I think I'm gonna have to try this if I re-do Mike's dresser. I think it'd be perfect for the top!

Eureka!

2009-01-03T16:47:00.000-06:00

I *finally* got the html kinks worked out - only took about 45 minutes of trial and error number changing, but at least it looks a bit better!! I am super excited about a huge project I'm about to start! It's something I've always wanted to do and now I have the opportunity! Be sure and stayed tuned for the before pictures!!

-Sarah-

Felted Food FUN!

2009-01-02T01:56:00.001-06:00

I can remember playing for hours and hours with my brother in our pretend kitchen. It was super-fancy 23 years ago and we had every food product there was in our play room. When we moved into town, my dad turned the storage area under the basement stairs into our own kitchen, complete with pantry shelves. Now Aiden is getting to the age where he is wanting to pretend play. At church he likes to use the little tykes kitchen and serve me food. Well, we have NO ROOM in our house for a kitchen set-up like I grew up with, but I thought he could at least enjoy play foods and would really be able to use the table my parent's got him for his birthday. After some searching, I discovered that most play foods available now were either cheap-o plastic junk or expensive wood (read - anything that is easy for Aiden to loose is expensive) I remember some felted food I saw a while back on a forum that I frequent and headed on over to Etsy to see what I could find. I didn't actually find many people selling the finished products, but rather the .pdf patterns for any kind of food you can imagine!! I cannot wait to get started crafting Aiden some pretend food. I love that if he looses any of the parts or tears some up, no biggie... I have the instructions to create it again... so Madeline will get to have the same fun!!! Check out this adorable BBQ Set or the Toaster Set. Who doesn't love Theatre snacks or Pizza I can even make him his own Sack Lunch or Chinese Take Out *sigh* I feel an addiction coming on....I've already discovered these 3 great pattern makers(Gulf Coast Cottage, Ume Crafts, Bugga Bugs)and I know there are bound to be lots more out there!!

-Sarah-

By the way, if you're reading this and have a fairly good grasp on blog html code, could you PLEASE help me figure out why my text isn't stying inside of my main wrapper, pretty pretty please. I'm really getting tired of this wonky look and i'm sure visitors are too!!

Lots of Wonky-ness

2008-12-29T13:24:00.000-06:00

Please excuse the mess while my blog is under construction. Hopefully all will be back to normal once my kids go down for their afternoon nap :)

-Sarah-

A Mystery No More

2008-12-27T12:26:00.000-06:00

A few days ago I posted a 'mystery project' that involved chiffon and dye... Well, since I gave my MIL her gift Thursday I figured it was safe to go ahead and post the finished project!!! I am thrilled with the way that it turned out and despite the beading thread difficulties and all of the dropped beads, I have 3 more in the works... one of them will be a huge surprise and I cannot wait to announce it on here... so Stay Tuned!!

Without further ado, here is my first ever hand-dyed, hand beaded scarf!

-Sarah-

Every woman needs an apron, or two....

2008-12-22T13:07:00.000-06:00

I finally finished up these two apron gifts - They've only been in the works for a year now *hanging my head in shame* At any rate, they are still super cute... Hope the receiver adores them as much as I do.

-Sarah-

Emmeline Apron by Sew Liberated
*This is one apron, it's completely reversible!*

Four Corners Apron by Vanilla House Designs

Another mystery project...

2008-12-22T00:52:00.000-06:00

These are fun posts to make but to be honest, I'm only making it a mystery because at the rate I'm going, it'll be another year before these are finished! At any rate, I've been having fun (even if I did splash dye on my favorite pair of ratty jeans). I've been sewing like crazy this weekend trying to finish up last-minute Christmas gifts. I'll have to wait until after December 25th to show any pictures though - I'm not sure if the recipients read this blog!!

-Sarah-

Started with this.....

Added a little bit of that....

What could they possibly be???

Like Mother, like daughter?

2008-12-16T10:55:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time my mom was very crafty. She and our neighbor Cheryl always made the cutest Christmas shirts. I can remember watching them iron them on then paint like crazy. Our kitchen was full of paint and cardboard. Of course all 3 of us had coordinating shirts and we usually had pictures made in them. I guess it's no surprise that I've been working on my own kid's Christmas shirts. It doesn't matter that they'll only get to wear them 2 or 3 times - I've still enjoyed making them. I guess I get that honestly. Only I've traded my mom's fabric paints for sewing machines! I did use just a smidge of paint to glue on buttons to Aiden's shirt and I need to put a mouth on his gingerbread man later tonight. They will wear these to have their pictures taken with Santa this week and on Christmas day!

-Sarah-

Aiden's shirt in progress. I imagine that my mom's work space looked similiar to this... well, maybe the 1/2 eaten pan of brownies wasn't there.... haha

Aiden's shirt - minus a mouth

Madeline's outfit. She also has an adorable gingerbread bow to match. Well, she will when ever I get it finished :)

This picture is circa 1994 or so.... Yes, we are sporting some of the awesome shirt that my mom made us :)

Polish Pottery - I want it!

2008-12-16T09:51:00.000-06:00

My friend Allison is stationed in Germany with her military hubby and in celebration of passing 50 blog followers, she is giving away this beautiful piece of polish pottery!!

I'm anxiously awaiting December 18th to see if I won!! You can read about her give away here

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2008-12-11T15:18:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share a small peak at Miss Madeline's Christmas outfit....

-Sarah-

CPSIA - this will affect YOU!

2008-12-04T16:25:00.000-06:00

This is really important. No, this is not a hoax; I have researched the dickens out of this, and as you can read in the sources below it is true ... and frightening. New legislation is slated to take effect in February that will dangerously affect all small businesses in this country that make and/or sell handmade toys, children's clothing, blankets, cloth diapers, and more. It will even have an impact on any of you that prefer to buy handmade items and support craftspeople - simply because those items will mostly no longer be available. I heard someone from the ACLU on NPR this morning (talking about a different topic -- homeland security) and he said something like "The biggest threat to Americans is Congress" They like to do things that make it look like they are concerned for our safety, but it's all for show and has disastrous consequences. I am fairly certain that a pig flew by my window because I whole-heartedly agree with him - and there isn't much that comes from the ACLU that doesn't make me want to vomit.

As of February 10, 2009, ALL items sold in the United States that are meant for children 12 years and younger will be required to have third-party lead testing done by the manufacturer. This sounds great in theory, since we all want to protect our children. This law will only force small businesses to close (or operate illegally), when the problem lies with large companies making cheap items in foreign countries.

DO YOU BUY THESE ITEMS, OR VALUE THE ABILITY TO BUY THEM?
Then you need to e-mail or write your representatives today. If this legislation is not changed to offer some sort of clarification regarding handcrafting businesses in the US, then many if not most of the items I've discussed will no longer be available. No more wood cars crafted by a retired grandpa; no more children's handmade clothing and cloth diapers on Hyena Cart; not to mention Etsy and other sites that encourage us to buy handmade. I don't know if you feel the same way, but if I had to choose between a handmade item made by a work-at-home mom versus a "certified lead-free" item made in China and sold at Target, I'd choose the former.

DO YOU MAKE OR SELL THESE ITEMS?
If you own a small home-based business crafting these items, these requirements fall on YOU. You will be required to test each and every component of your items for sale, and label them with a batch number and date of manufacture. This includes thread, buttons, fabric, etc. If you do not comply, you will be in violation of federal law and could be subject to fines up to $100,000 PER ITEM - and even jail time. Any children's items made before this date that are not tested and certified lead-free are considered banned hazardous waste and cannot be sold after February 10, 2009. Even if you use materials such as fabric that were tested by their manufacturer not to contain lead, you must still have third-party testing done. This is obviously not an option for most artisan businesses!

Please call or write your representatives regarding the new CPSIA legislation *that has already passed* and will be put into effect in February without any thought for the 'little guys'.

We must act soon and get some changes made, or February 10 could mean the end of the "Buy Handmade" movement! Stand up for small businesses everywhere as this legislation affects each and every one of us, our businesses, our children and even our economy. Let your representatives know that as much as we value keeping our children safe by testing items for lead, this is the WRONG way to accomplish that.

I encourage you to read over the links below.

Contact your local representative via this link:
https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml

You can read more about the CPSIA legislation at:

http://www.cpsc.gov/ABOUT/Cpsia/cpsia.html
http://nationalbankruptcyday.com/
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/

http://www.fashion-incubator.com/archive/cpsia-what-must-be-tested/

http://www.toyassociation.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=CPSIA&Template=/TaggedPage/TaggedPageDisplay.cfm&TPLID=290&ContentID=6275

Gobble Gobble Gobble

2008-11-28T18:20:00.000-06:00

Doesn't miss MJ look adorable with her turkey clip? Someday she'll have hair but for now all I can do is the headbands. Her JoeJoe can't stand all the frilly bows, but he thought this was okay :) Of course, she's already cute enough, but that lil turkey just made the day!

-Sarah-

Go LHS!!

2008-11-28T17:54:00.000-06:00

I finally finished up the Lubbock high outfit I was making for a friend. I've been anxiously holding off on showing the whole thing until I had given it to her. So for those who enjoyed the sneak peak... here it is in all it's black and gold glory!!!

-Sarah-

This is what the undershirt looks like... it is not the cutest lil cheerleader ever?

She loves me Knot!

2008-11-28T17:51:00.000-06:00

I have fallen in love with the new knot dresses. I especially like the ones made from hodge podge fabrics. This one was extra special - It was made with love for a super cute Texas Tech Fan! I can't wait to see pictures of the little princess sporting this at the games! It's pefect to wear in cold weather with a turtle neck and leggings or as-is during the summer months! The pattern was very simple and I look forward to making many more as Madeline gets bigger!

-Sarah-

Boobie Bibs :)

2008-11-20T01:40:00.001-06:00

I've finally begun working on my nursing cover stash and hope to get them listed in my Etsy store soon, very soon! Until then, here's a few of my favorites!

Crayon Apron

2008-11-19T22:13:00.001-06:00

I made this crayon apron for a dear friends little girl - I thought it'd make a great 2nd birthday present since she loves to color! I'm always nervous when giving anyone homemade gifts - I just never know how they will be received. It's hard to put a lot of time, effort and love into a project just to have the recipient put it away. Well, I'm pretty sure this mama loved it! In fact, so did big sis. Good thing the fabric requirements were so generous - I have enough to make another one. That will have to wait until after Thanksgiving though :) So, I think that's about it for my marathon blogging - Off to sew some more!!

-Sarah-

And yes, her name is hand embroidered on to the waist band.

Gonna be warm and cozy!

2008-11-19T22:00:00.000-06:00

Last week a cold spell passed through and I realized that Miss Madeline doesn't have a jacket or sweater, not that you need them much in Houston. We're going to Perryton for Thanksgiving and it's been known to snow! I browsed some of the local consignment shops, but of course they were all empty - seems I wasn't the only mama missing warm outer wear!! Aiden is set - Gigi picked him up a light jacket and coat on an end-of-season clearance but Miss Madeline was left to be cold :) I had seen the Cute As A Button Jacket Patternbefore at my local quilt shop but never thought much about it until I needed a coat! Oh my gosh, that had to have been the easiest thing I've ever sewn!! I highly recommend this pattern and have no doubt that even a beginner sewer could figure it out! I would suggest adding length - it's really short. Not going to make a huge difference on an infant, but when I make it again in the bigger size, I will be making it MUCH longer. The buttons I got this week at JoAnn's are too big, so I'll have to exchange them this weekend. But how it this??? I used baby corduroy and some snuggly flannel in pink damask! Brown and pink is so shabby chic.

Since it's unsafe, not to mention uncomfortable to have in infant in a coat while strapped in their car seat, I made a Cozie Car Seat Cover to keep in MJ's bucket seat. It's the coolest thing... just snaps in and doesn't interfere with the safety but will keep her warm in the biting panhandle wind!

(How cute is my model?? Would you believe me if I told you that is an original Cabbage Patch?! - yup, that lil lady is 25 years old!!!)

Marathon Sewing for the awesome MG!

2008-11-19T21:46:00.000-06:00

So, my good friend Misty Green from MG Studios asked me to make her girls matching (coordinating)outfits for their family pictures. We started this project in JULY!!! Just about the time we finally picked out a fabric and patterns, IKE decided to pay us a visit. Once we were settled back into life I was swamped. Well, I procrastinated a bit too :) The photographer who was supposed to take their family picture had to cancel due to an ill husband - so that bought me another week or two! Well, I FINALLY got them finished up and mailed. Misty called me while she was opening the package and I was a nervous wreck... She lOVED them... until she got to Emmy's skirt... *sigh* it's only about 9000 inches too long *sigh* and it's the one I worked the hardest on :( I guess I'll rip out all my beautiful ruffles and shorten it. Seems that Misty did tell me that I was going to have to cut a bit off - but sheesh, that was in August and I didn't even starting working on them till November - I slept a bit since then :) Again, I waited till the last minute, so I don't even have good pictures - no sweat - Misty's a photographer so I know she'll hook me up *wink wink*

Anyway, here are 3 of the 4 outfits!!

-Sarah-

Miss Abby

Miss Mandy

Miss Emmy

Miss Tori's is missing but it was a super cute a-line top with ruffle decoupage jeans! I even used my automatic buttonholer for the first time - go me! :)

Birdie Sling! by Amy Butler

2008-11-19T21:34:00.000-06:00

I fell IN LOVE with the Amy Butler Birdie Sling the moment I saw it. I purchased the pattern with some of my birthday money but have not had a minute to make one! Well, at least one for myself. Aunt Karen commissioned me to make one for her daughter-in-law's baby shower! It's a great diaper bag - holds a ton but doesn't SCREAM diaper bag. Super cute and very stylish! It was difficult to pick fabric for someone that I barely know, but I went with an ultra-modern home decorator print - Chocolate brown with turquoise stripes. It turned out stunning - even if I did get very friendly with my seam ripper! I am mad at myself to procrastinating so long with this project. I finished it less than 1 hour before I was to be at the shower so the pictures were very rushed and do NOT do this beautiful bag justice. The good news? Since decorator fabric is so wide, I have enough to make myself one!!!! Yeah! Now the bad news? I can't seem to find the time!!! *sigh* someday....

-Sarah-

Adjustable Double Ruffle Headband

2008-11-19T21:18:00.000-06:00

I was a tester again for YCMT and was give the adjustable double ruffle headband to try out. It's super easy and adorable -so you mama's with little girls need to check it out once the directions are released. My test isn't completely finished, but I had gotten far enough that I could take pictures and give a review for the author. Madeline was helping me sew tonight and Aiden wanted his picture taken every time I got my camera out. Funny from a little guy that usually runs when he sees the camera! See that doll that Madeline is teething on? I thought I’d try my hand at a Little Whimsy Mae Doll - it seemed easy enough - I even had intended on trying the John Doll Well, I think I’d better just stick with sewing clothing – we’ll leave the doll making to people who are actually good at it! One pig tail was put on upside down and her face is totally not round. I didn’t do so hot in geometry, but I’m pretty sure her face isn’t even a recognized shape!! Alas, Madeline enjoys sucking on it – so I guess not all is lost!!

-Sarah-

Miss Madeline Dress

2008-11-19T20:51:00.000-06:00

I found this pattern on my favorite websiteand of course, I just had to make it! The pattern is called Miss Madeline and it's as easy as it is cute! I wanted MJ to have a cute dress to wear to a baby shower and it took me less than 2 hours from start to finish - that includes the "http://www.ericas.com/sewing/patterns/38296b.jpg">bloomers :)

-Sarah-

A sneak peek

2008-11-19T20:43:00.000-06:00

A dear friend of mine asked me to make her daughter some new clothes - she wanted something for LHS Westerners and Texas Tech but left it completely up to me to come up with something! I love having that kind of freedom! Here's a sneak peek at what I've done so far! I'll revel the final products after I give them to Hannah at Thanksgiving!

-Sarah-

This is a sneak of what's to come with the TT outfit...

A little bit of LHS tease :)

Going sew crazy!

2008-11-19T19:21:00.000-06:00

Wow! Has it really been 2 months since I've posted??? Keeping up with two small kiddos, a husband and a home doesn't leave much time to craft and edit, much less blog about everything I'm doing! I feel like I'm barely keeping my head above water. I did take a few minutes tonight to get caught up on my project pictures, so I'll try to get a few of them posted!

Maybe I should make a new year's resolution now?? Here's to keeping up better!

-Sarah-

Mystery project....

2008-09-09T01:00:00.000-05:00

What could this be? You'll have to wait to see :) Want to know why on earth I'd even bother to ask? I'm hoping that some one will nag me enough about the answer that I get on the ball and get it FINISHED! Oct 31 will be here before I know it *hint hint*

:)

Sarah

Ranger Pride Never Dies!

2008-08-28T20:03:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine from high school asked me to make her 2 daughter's "Ranger Bows" so they could wear them to support their Uncle Chance at the big games on Friday night! I got the 1st one finished up tonight so I just had to show it off! Not sure if bow #2 will be a copy cat or something totally different but I did have fun doing this one! The bottle cap was an experiment and thankfully, wasn't a total disaster! Got it *mostly* right on the first try! So Berkley, I hope you like your bow! It'll be the cutest one in Kindergarden, by far!!

-Sarah-
(by the way, I specialize in people pictures, not product photography; however, I was very proud of myself for thinking about putting it on a real football!!)

Monkey See, Monkey Do

2008-08-28T15:01:00.001-05:00

After my main blog, Maddie Dean Photography under went some major cosmetic changes this month, I decided it's time to re-vamp Sew Cute Babe!! Things may look super wonky from time-to-time, but just hang tight; it'll all be "normal" again soon!

-sarah-

Matchy Matchy 1 hour skirt

2008-07-28T21:26:00.000-05:00

I finished up the One Hour Skirt test pattern and finally got around to having Mike take pictures of Miss Maddie and I together! Our first Mother/Daughter outfit!!

-Sarah-

Llama Song

2008-07-22T18:37:00.000-05:00

This has to be one of the most obnoxious videos on the internet, but desperate times call for desperate measures! I needed to sew (well, more like wanted, but oh well) and Aiden didn't want a nap, didn't want to watch Veggie Tales or Hermie - I needed him to do *something* So I pulled up the Llama song on You Tube and he watched it for an hour while I finished my project! I feel slightly suicidal now, but I got to SEW in peace!

-Sarah-

I don't want the Llama to get all of Aiden's attention - these are equally obnoxious videos he'll watch while I'm surfing the net or sewing...

The ONE HOUR Skirt

2008-07-22T04:12:00.000-05:00

I received another pattern to test this past week and I'm just finishing it up. It's the "One Hour Skirt" - a super cute A-line skirt with elastic waist and several darts. It's available in EVERY SIZE IMAGINABLE!! I drug my projcet out to 1.5 hours and made two skirts - one for myself and one for Madeline! I made her a pink top as well. I bought a shirt for me tonight from from Old Navy. I have to submit photographs as part of my review, so hopefully Mike can get those for me tomorrow. Until then, here's a quick snap of Miss Maddie!

-Sarah-

Old Red Barn Co quilt giveaway

2008-07-20T19:20:00.000-05:00

ORBC is giving away the most AMAZING quilt I've ever seen! To enter I had to leave a comment then link back to my blog. To earn extra entries, I've added a graphic to the sidebar. Too bad I don't have time to do a video cause that'd get me an extra 50 entries! Oh well.... I never win but maybe this time luck will be on my side!!

-sarah-

ps - feel free to enter then pass the quilt along to me if you win!!!!

Old Red Barn Company Quilt Giveaway

Pinata Pinafore GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!

2008-07-17T02:46:00.000-05:00

Pinata Pinafore GIVEAWAY!!!!!!!

Is this not the cutest?(click the link above to see what's cute) I think Maddie would look adorable wearing it and but me actually making it is another story!! Instead I'm Hoping to win it by linking to her give away! Wish me Luck!

-Sarah-

From her head to her toes

2008-07-16T18:57:00.001-05:00

I made another outfit for Miss Madeline today. This one will match some gaucho pants I'm making for myself. I think the fabric is cute - but Michael wasn't impressed! I was so excited to finally figure out how to shirr her top that I shirred her pant legs as well!! I even learned how to make a korker bow to match! See her booties even match! She'll be the cutest dressed babe on the airplane!!

-Sarah-

Close up of booties - see the pretty bow detail!

Madeline's 1st Hairbow!

PTSD - Post Traumatic Shirring Disorder

2008-07-15T00:02:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'm typing this one handed as I nurse Maddie, so please ignore all typos!!

Shirrin... ohhh shirring... that word might as well be 4 letters as it has caused me to say a few tonight!! I recently purchased a book called "Shirring Made Easy" yah right!! If you have patience like Job! I turns out that all I needed was my manual... then I would have known that my tension ran 9 to 0 and not the other way around. Putting it a 2 was NOT the answer!! If you're reading this and have ever attempted shirring, then you'll understand why I was only a few stitches shy of going to a looney farm!! Even though I finally figured things out (& had fun) I still may need therapy for my PTSD -

Here's a sneak peek at what I'm up to!!

-Sarah-

Cute as a Bug!

2008-07-13T15:43:00.000-05:00

While nursing Maddie late one night I found the cutest pair of shoes online - but I was not about to drop $40.00 on them!! I talked my friend Jenn into going supply shopping with me and we made our own! I made a pair for Madeline to wear next summer and she made some for her daughters too! We had a blast being crafty yesterday and I'm pretty proud of the way they turned out!!! Having a little girl is TOO MUCH FUN!!

-Sarah-

Fabric of My Life

2008-07-12T03:35:00.000-05:00

I was clearing out files on our computer and came across some pictures I'd saved from the internet of a camera bag I liked. It was super cute, but for the life of me, I couldn't remember *where* I'd seen it! Well, I went to google images, typed in the picture file name and viola, there it is! The bag was by Donna Downey! I spent some time looking around her website and was fascinated with all her stuff!! I found yet *another* project to add to my to-do list. Her Fabric of my Life book! is too cool!! It looks like something I can handle w/ out purchasing the ebook (may just have to do some research on how to bind it all together) Anyways, just wanted to share the latest project I've added to my endless to-do list!!

-Sarah-

I think I can! I think I can! I think I can!

2008-07-11T20:20:00.000-05:00

Worked for Thomas the Engine, right? I'm ready to attempt my first adult article of clothing. I figured that If I could do a pretty complicated diaper bag sans pattern then I could make a matching outfit for Miss Maddie and I!! I found the cutest Alexander Henry fabric today at JoAnns. It's super tall black/white Giraffes! I'm going to use the Its So Easy # 4234 for my pants and I'm winging it for Miss Maddie - though if you look closely at the picture you'll see elastic thread... Yup, that's right, I'm going to shirr for 1st time!! We're having dinner with some friends tonight and I can't wait to get home and get started! I think I can! I think I can! I think I can!!

-sarah-

Another baby gift on it's way.....

2008-07-10T19:18:00.000-05:00

This one was super fun to make. It's going to an old friend of mine who has no idea that she'll be getting anything in the mail. In fact, the last thing I made for her was a pan of brownies when we were in junior high! She was in a 4-wheeling accident and I took them over to help her get well (still not sure if they had any egg shells... it was my 1st time making brownies!!) Anyways, she'll be getting hooter hider, 2 burp rags, a diapee/wipee and a super cute outfit from babies r' us that isn't pictured. I hope she likes it! I know she plans on nursing since she's a NICU RN so hopefully the hooter hider will be very useful for her!!

-Sarah-

close up of applique on hooter hider

If there were 36 hours in a day....

2008-07-10T19:12:00.000-05:00

Would I get more done? Or would I still feel like there's is simply not. enough. time? I feel that the latter would be true. Lets face it... I'm horrible with time management. Take for instance the fact that I'm typing out this blog while Maddie is sleeping instead of actually trying to finish one of these projects :) Anyways, look at all these wonderful fabrics!!! They are each slotted for certain projects (most being hooter hiders) and I really really need to get them started! Ahh, oh well.... Someday It'll all get done. I'm participating in a sewing swap on a forum I frequent and some of these fabrics are for that lovely mama. That project must come first. I've already finished about 1/4 of my ideas... so off I go to start on the rest!!

-Sarah-

Maybe someday

2008-07-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

I wish there was some way to win the lottery without actually having to play... My "want" list for photography is already a mile long and now my "really really want list" for sewing is growing. It's not so long, just more expensive. I began sewing again to be able to duplicate some of the cute burp rags Aiden received as baby gifts and it's really taken off. I don't remember ever loving to sew when I first learned and now I'd almost rather break out my machine instead of my camera and I NEVER thought that'd happen! If I had access to unlimited funds (and really, unlimited space) I'd be all over the new Janome 350e embroidery machine! Especially with having a girl now... my head is always full of cute ideas and that machine would help them all come true... Mike is always saying that I should sell what I make... not a bad idea... Think I could sell enough for that hoss???

oh well, someday... someday...

-Sarah-

Cozy Boppy Cover

2008-07-07T12:07:00.000-05:00

I love minky fabrics - so soft and cushy so I thought it'd be perfect for a boppy cover! I made a mad dash to JoAnns and picked up some super cute fabric from Alexander Henry (I love the Kleo collection!!) and some watermelon pink minky (it originally had dots but I ironed them out) I used my current boppy cover to create a template and used 2 strips of velcro to close the back! It's really cozy fun to nurse with! Maddie loves to snuggle down into it and when I'm nursing and night and get cold, I use the minky side down against my legs!!

-Sarah-

Neapolitan Overload

2008-07-03T08:58:00.000-05:00

I love the color combination of chocolate, pink & cream together (though neapolitan ice cream isn't a favorite of mine!) A few years ago I fell in love with the Lotus ring sling from Sakura Bloom and while they are truly stunning slings, I'm afraid I just can't shell out $340.00 for one!! Well, lucky for me they stopped making their Lotus sling so I was forced to make my own. I love it! It's beautiful and feminine and so far, Miss Maddie loves to be snuggled up in it. I don't wear it as my everyday carrier but I love it for church! I was feeling extra ambitious when I made it, so I created a matching hooter hider. Actually, those are my new favorite thing to sew and I've made about 10 so far. Hopefully I'll get a picture of them soon and get it posted. In the meantime, here is my new sling....

-Sarah-

My matching "hooter hider" See her hand and foot poking out?

First Dress for Madeline

2008-07-03T08:53:00.001-05:00

I finished sewing my 1st dress ever for Madeline. I know it'll be the first of hundreds more. I used the left over fabric from my hospital gown and just winged the pattern. It turned out pretty cute I think. I was so proud when I put it on her yesterday and I imagine my own grandmother felt the same way the first time I wore something she had sewn. Just wanted to show off my pretty girl in her pretty new dress!!

-Sarah-

Sunny Dress

2008-06-23T21:06:00.000-05:00

I recently signed up to be a pattern tester for Nanoo Designs at You Can Make This My 1st pattern to test was the "Sunny Dress" It's a super adorable reversible wrap sun dress and I can't wait for Miss Madeline to fit in it (in probably about 3 years!!!) I was even daring and added applique to both sides! I really liked having the opportunity to test a pattern and look forward to many more (if Nanette liked my work and feedback!!)
So - here's to my 1st sewing project since Maddie was born - the 1st of about 20 on my to-do list!!
-Sarah-

~ Side One ~

~ Side Two ~

The ultimate diaper bag

2008-06-08T17:39:00.000-05:00

I went through several bags with Aiden but always had a complaint about each one. I searched and searched for something I'd love with Madeline but was never just "blown away" Soo, I just decided to write down my likes & dislikes and make the darn thing myself! So, that's exactly what I did!! It's a adjustable strap messenger with 9 pockets and super cool washable lining. I was feeling extra crafty during my last days of nesting, so it also has a coordinating changing pad, diaper purse and wipe case! I'm super excited about my new custom girly diaper bag!

-Sarah-

Dora the Explorer

2008-05-22T15:24:00.000-05:00

A friend's daughter is about to celebrate her 3rd birthday and as a certified dora fanatic I'm sure she'll love to wear Dora & Boots! I made this using several different patterns. The pinafore top is reversible and features a dora applique on the solid pink side. It looks like I'll have to miss her party but I hope she loves it. I wish I had a manaquin to model my clothes... maybe her mama will get a cute picture of her in it so you can get a better idea of how the top looks!

-Sarah-

Designer Hospital Gown

2008-05-22T15:00:00.002-05:00

Okay, I can't be the only woman who hates the standard hospital gowns. You know the ones.... 20 sizes too big, blue and ugly? I've begun nesting and decided to make my own gown. Thanks to google I found a great free pattern for hospital gowns. Downloaded it and printed it then headed off to good 'ol Hobby Lobby to find some fabric. A print caught my eye pretty quickly so I scooped it up (on sale no less!) and came home to sew! About an hour later I had my own custom (and proper fitting) hospital gown! Now, I just hope CLRH doesn't burst my bubble by not letting me wear it. I made sure it even had snap shoulders for easy mmaneuvering around IV lines! And yes, that is a matching headband. By gosh, I may be a woman in labor, but I'm gonna look good at the same time!

Action Shots:
You can see more of our special day by watching her slide show

I'm a Cowboy Baby

2008-05-05T16:34:00.001-05:00

Just another baby gift - OSU Cowboy Blanket, Diapee/Wipee and burp rag. After searching for a few weeks for the perfect trim I gave up and decided that I'd make my own!! My ruffle foot wasn't nearly as complicated as I had always thought! I loved being able to make my own ruffle!! Didn't think this was too girly :) I also got brave and added an appliqued 'C' on the back... Hope you enjoy it baby Cooper!

-sarah-

I'm a knifty knitter :)

2008-04-22T14:19:00.000-05:00

I saw the cutest cocoons that a few photographers were making for newborn shoots, so I just *had* to give it a try myself! I can kinda crochet, but have never knitted in my life! Thank goodness some genius invented the LOOM!! Now I too can knit! I stayed up till about 2 am in the morning finishing this one because I wanted to use it on my newborn shoot the next morning. It was fun to make and surprisingly easy too!

-sarah-
(don't mind my test subjet - it was all I could find in the middle of the night!!)

Tu-tu cute

2008-04-15T17:29:00.000-05:00

I have a photography session coming up for a little girl who is turning three and what little girl doesn't like tutus? I made this using tule-on-a-spool from Garden Ridge & elastic. The only sewing involved was stitching the ends of the elastic together! The shirt was a bit more difficult but only because my machine had an attitude with me. For some reason it's been difficult to applique lately - I think it's about time to take it in for an overhaul! I'll try to remember to post a pic of the little lady wearing her tutu!

Enjoy!
Sarah

Another Nappy Bag

2008-04-10T11:20:00.000-05:00

I just finished up my 10th AB Nappy Bag yesterday. Each one has been so different - haven't made 2 the same yet. I tried to get cutesy with the inside pockets on this one and trimmed them with the exterior fabric - really I did that to try to make the pockets easier to see! I also took away one bottle pocket and added elastic to the other. And of course, I made a matching diapee & wipee! I'm very pleased with the way it turned out and I hope the mama likes it too!!

Another food creation

2008-04-09T01:20:00.000-05:00

I was given a baby shower this past weekend by some ladies in our church - it was beautiful and I know that the little lady will feel special someday because she had a party too - even though she was our second child! I decided I wanted to give the Hostesses a gift since they went to so much troubl to make me feel special. I must admit, I didn't come up with the idea all by myself. I was a hostess for a bridal shower a few weeks ago and the bride gave all of us "Brownies in a Jar" I just took her gift and made a few changes!

The biggest change was the sugar - I spend FOREVER (actually about 2 hrs) coloring 14 cups of sugar pink. Had I used powder food coloring the process would have gone much quicker. But all I could find was liquid (event that was difficult - all you can buy at the grocery store is gel coloring!!) I loved the way the jars turned out - very neopolitian looking :)

Hobby Lobby had some super cute pink and brown fabric on the sale rack - I added the pink grosgrain ribbon and Kinkos printed the cards for me - super fast thank you gift!

Recipe Used:
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

And printed on the attached card:
PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Pour brownie mix into large mixer bowl; stir. Add 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) melted butter or margarine, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons water and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; stir well. Spread into prepared baking pan. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out slightly sticky. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar. Makes 2 dozen brownies.

Front View

Back View

Pink & Brown CrAzY

2008-03-12T23:36:00.000-05:00

I finally finished up a baby gift for a friend. Good thing too, since her shower is this coming weekend - Went a little crazy with pink and brown - I may have to make it all again for my own baby girl....

I made a blanket, diapee & wipee, and 3 burp rags... pefect for a baby girl!

-Sarah-

Bunny Cake

2008-03-12T23:32:00.000-05:00

okay, so this doesn't *exactly* have anything to do with sewing, but it was too cute not to share. I was asked to make a cake for a church auction.... something "Sarah Style" and after a few hrs of google and Food Network searching I gave up and called my mom. Guess she had Beehive on her mind, so that's what I did... I made a Beehive Bunny Cake! I was bummed to miss the auction, but I heard that it sold well!

-Sarah-

E is for Ella

2008-02-21T13:41:00.000-06:00

Miss Ella is turning on in just a few weeks and this is the outfit I made for her birthday. I've really enjoyed making these clothes. For this I used the Ribbon shirt and Decoupage jeans with
ribbon tabs. I left the 'E' on the shirt unfinished so it will fray when washed! I really can't wait to get to make boutique outfits like this for my own little princess!

Creations

2008-02-20T15:05:00.000-06:00

I've decided that I need somewhere to show off my sewing creations - so I thought a blog would be a good place to begin. Sadly, there are only 24 hrs in a day - some of which I try to spend sleeping. Other hrs are divided up and shared between playing with Aiden, doing laundry, keeping the house clean (okay that one gets the LEAST amount of time dedicated!!), being a good wife to Mike and other odds and ends. That leaves me about, uhh, negative 5 hrs for sewing and other creative projects! Sometimes I just have to let things go so I can SEW! So, here's where I'll share what I make. Now, keep in mind that I do have little time to dedicate to my crafts, so honestly this may not be updated much - but I'll do what I can!

White Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets

2008-02-16T09:06:00.000-06:00

I was asked by Jackie to make a special dinner for the Giant Killers Love Dinner at church. She didn't know exactly what she needed me to fix, but she did know that they didn't want cookies, cakes or pies.... something more original, more unique. Well, I went to the trust 'ol Food Network to do some research and came up with the most wonderful recipe. It's White Chocolate hazelnut Tartlets by Giada De Laurentiis. She's an amazing cook and these were very simple to make (once I got the hang of working with the phyllo dough) I highly recommend making these! I made over 60 and didn't bring a single tart home! Everyone raved over how yummy they were!

-Sarah-

Texas Tech Baby!

2008-02-08T16:42:00.000-06:00

I have found a new addiction - it's a DIY website called You Can Make This and it is FULL of wonderful Ebook patterns for the *cutest* things!! I think my wish list is already 3 pages long!! Now that we know we're having a girl I can't wait to sew dresses and girly things - I'm already stocking up on fabrics!! I was browsing through their site looking for ideas to make something for a friend's daughter who's 1st birthday is coming up. I decided to make a Ribbon shirt with applique (my 1st time!!) and Decoupage jeans with
ribbon tabs. Talk about CUTE! I hope Aubrey's mama sends some pictures I can post. It was a fairly easy project - the toughest part was sewing around the cuff of the jeans. They are size 9-12 months - so it's a little tight to turn. I was pricked countless times by all the pins it took to hold the ribbon tabs in place! I had so much fun making this that outfit #2 is in the works for one of Mike's cousins. I'll be sure and post pictures when it's finished!

My 1st Skirt

2007-09-02T16:32:00.000-05:00

I was browsing through Sew Contempo the other day and saw the cutest skirt pattern from Favorite Things and just *had* to try it out. Wow - that was one of the easiest things I've ever made. I think the longest step was pre-wash and cutting the panels. It took me less than 2 hrs from start to finish. I know I'll be making this one again very soon! Mike took the pictures so they're not super clear - but you can get an idea. I used Ice Blue Taffy by Anna Maria Horner.

Faux Sakura Bloom Ringsling

2007-08-28T16:14:00.000-05:00

I *love* the look of Sakura Bloom Ringslings but I'm afraid Mike may have a small cow if I dropped $320.00 on a baby sling!! So I got together with another mama and we ordered some silk online and just made our own. I bought fabric to make the Green Tea and Whitewater RS (only the whitewater is still available on their site) So far, all I've finished in the Green Tea. I have plans to purchase silk to make Lotsus (which is also discontinued) But it's bubble gum pink, chocolate brown and ivory - beautiful for a little girl!

1st Cake

2007-08-21T02:45:00.000-05:00

I decided I'd make Aiden's 1st Birthday cake myself... Yah, next year, I'm paying The Cake Lady to do that!! Wow, My arms & hands were exhausted!!

Pillow case purse

2007-07-22T15:21:00.000-05:00

I saw the cutest tutorial for a Pillowcase Purse and since I didn't have a pillow case that would look good cut up as a purse, I ran to Hancocks and found some fabric on their sale rack that would be fun. I started by making a pillow case, then I cut it up to follow the directions. I like how it turned out and it's fun to carry in the summer - has a nice vintage look to it!

Pillow Case Dress

2007-07-06T15:42:00.000-05:00

My grandmother used to make these for me when I was growing up, so I thought I've give them a try too. They were very easy and turned out cute. I did them for a friend at our church that has two little girls - I'm afraid Mike would be a bit upset if I made them for Aiden :) One dress was a size 6 months and the other was 18 months and they took less than 2 yards of fabric to make both!!

(dont' pay attention to the horrible picture - it was taken against our paint test wall

Pillow Case Dress Tutorial

Mei Tai love

2007-06-26T15:25:00.000-05:00

I found great DIY instructions for a Mei Tai baby carrier and have been sewing them like crazy lately. They're pretty simple especially since I discovered how to rip fabric!! Here's a few I've done so far....

I experimented with this one... I made contoured sides and it's padded - one of my favorites to use so far!

This was a baby gift for a friend... I used the Alexander Henry Maxfield fabric and love how it turned out. I gathered the shoulers and the bottom rail for this one to fit her premie baby better.

This was the 1st mei tai I ever made. It was incredibly easy - just wish I had taken the time wash the red fabric 1st - oops! I made it using the Alexander Henry fabric What's your number

Just a couple of action shots! It came in very handy while working on the new house!

Stars & Stripes Mei Tai Carrier

2007-06-06T16:11:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd made a slightly different MT than the one's I'd done previously... and this is what I came up with! It's very comfortable and not too girly - so even Mike will use it! I've made 10 of these because after the 1st one, 9 others wanted to buy them! That was a major undertaking and I have a whole new respect for WAHM that make these!!!

More Diaper Bags!

2007-04-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

I made 2 more bags using the Nappy Bag by Amy Butler. This time I scaled them down about about 10% or so. The pink bag was a baby gift and I made the madras print for myself!

The AB Nappy Bag

2007-03-01T15:08:00.000-06:00

I love the Nappy Bag by Amy Butler It's an incredibly easy pattern and makes for a great diaper bag. I've been making several lately for baby gifts. Here's the 1st one I made. Took me a few hrs extra because I did A LOT of ripping, but I had fun and I love it. I used the print Maxfield by Alexander Henry

Inside view - it has 7 pockets

I was feeling extra ambitious and made a matching diapee & wipee case

All for Ella

2007-02-28T09:14:00.000-06:00

Baby Ella is already a special lady and she's not even here yet! The family can't wait to meet her though. This weekend is her baby shower so I've been sewing hard just for her!

Close up shots of the handmade goodies....

Melissa opening the goodie basket from our family..... We wrapped a bumbo with the blanket I sewed and then filled it up with all kinda of baby stuff!