Random Order

I was going through the pics on my memory card and thought I would share some of what I found.

Loafing

Three beautiful loaves of cinnamon raisin bread. One loaf already made it's way over to the neighbors. My house smells amazing. What simple joy.

In the Wink of an Eye

This just makes it all better.

Waffles

So, I hate it. As of today I never want to look at it again. Alright, that may be a bit strong but, I am on the verge of scrapping the latest design and moving on completely. Just on the verge though. I know myself well enough to anticipate seeing it all in an entirely more positive light in a few days. I do think I need to move it out of view for those few days, at least. Out of sight...

Devotion and Doubt

I was talking with a fellow designer yesterday about motivation, how one keeps motivated in times of self doubt and discouragement. We both agreed that it was beneficial to hear stories of other artisans who have struggled with similar issues. To hear how they have overcome these, as well as other obstacles. While most of us do not like to show off our less than stellar achievements, I think it does some service to share the awkward side of our processes, the good, the bad, and the ugly. To know that we are human among other humans (warts and all), to be supported during times of success, as well as failure - is indeed encouraging. While doubt creeps in from time to time, the devotion wins out and we keep on keepin' on.

And now this...



This is the design I have been working on. It is amazing how fabric can affect a piece, both for the positive and the negative, so...keep in mind this is not a finished product. If I were intending this to be a wearable dress, well, better fabric indeed. The hem and the armholes are left raw at this point, so there is a little pulling at the under-arms. As far as fit goes, it's nearly spot on. I had feared that when worn the fall of the center panel might have some trouble, I was right. To correct this I put a crinoline/petticoat under the dress and that solved the problem. Ummm, crinoline? So, it's not going to be an everyday dress. Ladies Tea anyone?

I am pleased that the actual design came fairly close to my original vision (it doesn't always work out that way); however there is still quite a bit of work or re-working that needs to be accomplished before I let it go. I think I need to leave it alone for a while, stop obsessing and come back later with fresh eyes. In the meantime, there is a jacket pattern that is calling my name.

sewing

Lost In Translation

Here is the work in progress, some pieces cut from fabric. Still on the no-buy tip, I'm out of muslin or gingham, so I am again using scraps and random fabric to make the mock-up. I have actually started piecing some of this together and found one solution to yesterday's dillema. Only time and more stitching will tell whether it was a true success. I am cautiously optimistic at the moment.

Sometimes A Great Notion

I have been thinking of my Nanan, my maternal grandmother Harriett. She was a wonderful seamstress,as well as a notorious crafter and the ultimate DIY queen. My mother has often told me stories of the amazing clothes my grandmother made for her when she was a child. Harriett would take note of the latest fashions in department stores and magazines, then from memory and without pattern, she would sew up a version of her vision; not an exact copy but, a likeness embellished with her own taste and style. I am wishing that I could borrow some of my Nanan's vast sewing experience right now.

I took the bad drawing from the back of the grocery receipt and started drafting a pattern and began the mock-up or muslin. I'm stuck. Can not figure out the next piece. I have tackled it 3 times today and could not get the solution. I can see the finished piece so clearly in my mind, so much so that I know there is a solution. Maybe if I sleep on it (or rather lie awake for hours obsessing on it), Nanan will send me a dream that will point me in the right direction.

Her Majesty

One "Super Duper Beautiful Princess Dress Please!", as ordered by the princess herself.
(Simplicity 4949 View B with modifications)

Wow, I need a new camera...