tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12269673698412623652024-03-12T20:51:45.825-07:00Oh Hello RabbitMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-51200951681221020092013-04-29T17:17:00.001-07:002013-04-29T21:08:25.732-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Days 6 & 7 - Sailboat Pants<div style="text-align: center;">
Hooray hurrah! With my one extra cheat day, I managed to finished these super cute <a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns/OLV-OS011SA.html">Sailboat Pants</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8692065055/" title="Sailboat Pants by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sailboat Pants" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8254/8692065055_3cf27a07f1.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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Now I can understand everyone's addiction with <a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns/OLV-OS011SA.html">this Oliver+S pattern</a>. They are sooo unbelievably satisfying to sew! Easy, relatively quick and they come together so nicely.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8693483517/" style="text-align: start;" title="Sailboat Pants - pink lining by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sailboat Pants - pink lining" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8693483517_42b69d2345.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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The fabric is an Italian (cotton) denim with a wee bit of stretch I picked up at my local Fabricana (note to self: I used a stretch needle when sewing this as I found my universal needle was pulling the threads in the fabric too much). It's relatively thin/light-weight, so perfect for spring/summer. I wanted these to be versatile so I went with the dark denim blue, but I didn't want them to be boring so added fuschia top-stitching and bright green buttons. C picked out the buttons from my vintage button stash and I think they are perfect :) I also used some pink floral and striped cotton scrap fabric I picked up at the latest <a href="http://www.oursocialfabric.org/">Our Social Fabric sale</a> for the lining/facing.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8693032779/" title="2013-04-29 12.44.56 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-29 12.44.56" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8543/8693032779_a0a0e65eb1.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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I made these in a size 4 which fit lil c nicely. And although they are meant to be cropped pants, these are definitely on the short side but still super cute. Again, perfect for the warmer weather we'll hopefully be seeing soon.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8693032425/" title="2013-04-29 12.45.05 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-29 12.45.05" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8400/8693032425_91dddeb779.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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So c was NOT in the mood to model these pants this morning. I think she's been feeling rather 'put upon' with having to have modeled 3 other garments this week already. But luckily this afternoon, she granted me about 60 seconds to do a quick photoshoot :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8694376596/" title="Sailboat pants by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sailboat pants" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8694376596_951aa8103f.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="375" /></a>
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So I guess that's the end of Kid's Clothes Week. If you sewed along too, feel free to link up in the comments. I'd love to see what you made! And for more inspiration, head on over to the <a href="http://blog.kidsclothesweek.com/">KCW blog</a> for the round-ups. Such awesome stuff on there. And now.. back to some selfish sewing for me :)<br />
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melissa x</div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-71691430632567694472013-04-27T19:13:00.000-07:002013-04-27T19:15:36.527-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 6..<div style="text-align: center;">
Hmm, well, umm.. so I didn't do anything at all for KCW yesterday (which was supposed to be my day 6 since I started early). Instead of sewing, I opted for going out for a much needed drink with a girlfriend after the kids went to bed. And I don't regret it one bit! :)</div>
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So, I guess it's a good thing I started KCW a day early so I have a back-up day to finish up my projects before it all ends. Fingers crossed for a productive evening..</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F4TfkQs2t1s/UXyD4e4a5aI/AAAAAAAABd4/eomqMkl0Yoc/s1600/2013-04-26+16.51.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F4TfkQs2t1s/UXyD4e4a5aI/AAAAAAAABd4/eomqMkl0Yoc/s320/2013-04-26+16.51.44.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(there is no reason for this picture other than to show you my pretty kitchen tulips and the super bright plastic animals I'm having fun hiding around the house right now. Can you spot the hippo too??)</div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-28932566170417096002013-04-26T16:24:00.000-07:002013-04-26T16:24:02.995-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 5 - sailboat pants in progress<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, I'm definitely slowing down. Just managed to trace and cut out the fabric for my next project for KCW. Up next..</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8683594737/" title="Sailboat Pants up next.. by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sailboat Pants up next.." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8683594737_143dc88d8d.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-59138439218397520532013-04-25T13:35:00.001-07:002013-04-25T13:37:05.071-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 4 - boardwalk skirt<div style="text-align: center;">
Whew! Finished this last night with only a mild bit of cussing. This is the <a href="http://patternanthology.com/products/boardwalk-skirt/">Boardwalk Skirt by Go To Patterns</a>. I purchased it when it was released as a pattern collection through <a href="http://patternanthology.com/">Pattern Anthology</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8681463166/" title="2013-04-25 07.54.27 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-25 07.54.27" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8393/8681463166_1196bff555.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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So, I have mixed feelings about this skirt. First off, the pattern itself is lovely and very well written. But I think I have to come to terms with the fact that I don't really like sewing gathers/ruffles. Especially when the fabric I use frays like nobody's business! Seriously! There were threads everywhere it was such a pain in the butt trying to find my bobbin threads to pull. But, I do love the end result and the full-ness of the skirt. And so does lil c :)</div>
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I made this skirt in a size 4T but probably should have lengthen it to a size 5 or 6 for my tall girl. I used a yarn dyed cotton (possibly linen blend..) that I picked up a while ago from my local Fabricland. The fabric for the under-layer (petticoat) is from a vintage sheet, and the lace is from a vintage stash my aunt recently handed off to me. Because I wanted to just use materials I had on hand, I ditched the eyelet and drawstring cord that was called for in the pattern, and just did a basic elastic waist (this is an option given in the pattern as well). And of course, I also used the lace from my stash as opposed to the crochet lace suggested in the pattern. I don't mind the look of the lace but would definitely use the crochet lace the next time I make this. Or I might even rip out this lace and sub in some crochet lace. Aside from the fact that I love all things crocheted, I think the regular lace looks a little too 'lingerie-y' and perhaps doesn't suit this style of skirt very well. So overall, aside from my choice of lace, I do like how this turned out and will definitely be making it again.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8680764753/" title="2013-04-25 12.08.42 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-25 12.08.42" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8519/8680764753_2d23c4de3d.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-31987711930329730662013-04-24T18:49:00.000-07:002013-04-24T18:49:30.013-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 3 - boardwalk skirt in progress<div style="text-align: center;">
I was pretty slow moving today and didn't get much actual sewing done. I had actually had the fabric cut out already, but spent a good while trying to decide on which lace to use for the detail. The pattern calls for crochet lace (which I love and think would look adorable) but I didn't have any on hand and really wanted to just use materials I had in my stash. My aunt recently gave me all the lace she had been hoarding over the last 30+ years so I found a piece that I think might work. Hoping to finish this up tonight.. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8677633454/" title="Boardwalk Skirt - in progress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Boardwalk Skirt - in progress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8261/8677633454_9b486db28f.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-53426283641118612422013-04-23T13:22:00.000-07:002013-04-23T13:56:39.055-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 2 - raglan tee<div style="text-align: center;">
The theme of this week's challenge for me seems to be 'basics' and trying to fill my kids' closets with clothes they will actually wear on a regular basis. I've been meaning to make some basic tees for my son for a while now (since that's about all he's willing to wear). So this is what I whipped up for Day 2:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8674825045/" title="Fieldtrip Raglan by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Fieldtrip Raglan" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8674825045_a233e97b57.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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This is the <a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns/OLV-OS035FC.html">Field Trip Raglan Tee from Oliver + S</a>. I made the <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2013/02/field-trip-cargos.html">cargos</a> already and big C loves them, so I thought I'd try the tee as well. I cut out the size 5 but lengthened both the body and arms to a size 7 (for my tall but super skinny guy). I used a thrifted Old Navy tee for the main body and some organic cotton jersey(?) I picked up at an <a href="http://www.oursocialfabric.org/">Our Social Fabric sale</a> last year (off the bolt for $2 a meter!!!) I love the colour combo and think this will definitely brighten up C's wardrobe :) </div>
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Again, a super quick project made even quicker by using the existing t-shirt hem in the main body of the shirt, and just doing a simple overlock finish for the sleeves. (geez, can you say lazyyy? :))</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8676055170/" title="Fieldtrip Raglan by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Fieldtrip Raglan" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/8676055170_653f501063.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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big C was not up for modeling this tee this morning, but lil C was more than happy to do it. Actually, she was hoping to claim the tee for herself but settled for just wearing it at home while her brother was out. Now she's demanding I make one for her too.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8676144656/" title="Fieldtrip Raglan by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Fieldtrip Raglan" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8122/8676144656_59967a6f42.jpg" width="427" /></a>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-12440146876809080032013-04-22T13:15:00.004-07:002013-04-22T13:49:28.605-07:00KCW Spring 2013 - Day 1 - twirl skirt<div style="text-align: center;">
So I kinda cheated and started my KCW sewing yesterday. But hey, at least I'm being honest about cheating, right? ;) I had a couple hours to myself and was itching to begin. And here's what I started with</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8673200052/" title="2013-04-21 16.13.19 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-21 16.13.19" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8381/8673200052_a576d2c79b.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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This is the <a href="http://lilblueboo.com/shop/products/The-Twirl-Skirt-PDF-Pattern-and-Tutorial-%252d-Sizes-12M-through-Women%27s-XL-%28plus-doll-size%29.html">Twirl Skirt from lil blue boo</a> which I also made for last year's <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/04/kcwc-upcycled-knit-twirl-skirt.html">KCWC</a> (which has been in heavy wearing rotation throughout the year). It's just so simple to sew up and is perfect for upcycling knits and using up scraps. I'm not really sure why it's taken me a whole year to sew up another one.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8672101127/" title="2013-04-22 09.43.04 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-22 09.43.04" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8535/8672101127_2560716004.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8672100145/" title="2013-04-22 09.42.44 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-22 09.42.44" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8398/8672100145_368e0030a4.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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I made this in the size 3-4T and cut into some of my smaller thrifted t-shirts/tanks I had stashed away. I love the apple print fabric which was from a size S tank top (pretty much used up the whole tank for this skirt), and the super soft pinstripe knit is from an XS Joe t-shirt (with just enough leftover for a doll dress perhaps..). </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8672101353/" title="2013-04-22 12.03.19 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-04-22 12.03.19" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8253/8672101353_9cd50d4dcd.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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And since this skirt only took about 20 mins to cut out and sew up, I spent the rest of my hour+ tracing the pattern pieces for my next couple of projects..<br />
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-15570910071981219162013-03-30T15:03:00.000-07:002013-03-30T21:25:17.842-07:00a bear-y cute geranium dress<div style="text-align: center;">
Two blog posts in one day?? What's going on around here?!? Well, I had intended to space them out a bit but I was just too excited to show you c's new <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/12/geranium-dress-sewing-pattern-is-here/">geranium dress</a> which I just finished last night.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603234197/" title="Geranium dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8402/8603234197_291098a3b8.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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Crazy cute, isn't it? I just love this <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/12/geranium-dress-sewing-pattern-is-here/">pattern by Rae</a> and wanted to sew one up right away. But life got in the way and now I feel like I'm late to the party. So I won't go into too much detail about the actual pattern and sewing process because there are literally a gazillion adorable Geranium Dresses and reviews out there for you to admire and read about. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603244675/" title="Geranium dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8266/8603244675_fee7cda1bf.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603287045/" title="Geranium dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8244/8603287045_5fab65e132.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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To make it short, this is a fabulous pattern and it was super easy to sew up. I chose the simple scoop neckline, with the pleated skirt and side seam pockets. I made the dress in a size 4 but lengthened it to a size 5 for my super tall almost-4-year-old. I think the fit is perfect! The only change I made with to top-stitch the bodice to the skirt since my top-stitching was much tidier looking than my 'stitch in the ditch' which was recommended in the instructions.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603633252/" title="Geranium dress - bears by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress - bears" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8118/8603633252_b7125c2cec.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8602534647/" title="Geranium dress - bears with pink woodgrain lining by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress - bears with pink woodgrain lining" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8404/8602534647_5b11f279cd.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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The fabric (which c picked out herself) is a lovely organic cotton from the Camp Modern collection of Birch Fabrics. I first saw this bear print used in a dress over <a href="http://www.luvinthemommyhood.com/2012/11/sweetheart-delaney-albatross-dresses.html">here</a> and thought it was adorable (actually the <a href="http://www.luvinthemommyhood.com/2012/10/sweetheart-dress-sewing-pattern-release.html">dress</a> is pretty fabulous too and is high up on my to-make list). So maybe I subconsciously directed c to this fabric at our <a href="http://www.spoolofthread.com/">local fabric shop</a>.. or perhaps it's just because she loves polar bears (she has about 4 polar bear stuffies). But regardless, I'm glad she picked this fabric because I think it's perfect for this dress. The lining is Joel Dewberry's Woodgrain that was in my stash. A touch of pink to offset the cooler grays and blues.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603637860/" title="Geranium dress - vintage buttons by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress - vintage buttons" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8603637860_a527f858a5.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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The dress is nice and roomy without being balloony and closes in the back with 3 buttons. I was excited to dig into my vintage button stash to pick out these sweet white buttons. LOVE!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8603596167/" title="Geranium dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Geranium dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8603596167_353233ea59.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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And that pink toque? C picked it out at a shop yesterday and pretty much hasn't taken it off her head except to change clothes and at bedtime, although she was convinced she wanted to wear it to sleep as well. I think she looks like Strawberry Shortcake when she wears it and it makes me smile :)</div>
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melissa x</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-7704182865780051622013-03-30T10:54:00.002-07:002013-03-30T11:08:36.432-07:00oljett<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not much of a knitter, although my mom is pretty amazing at it so you'd think there should be some knitty genes in me.. But since I'm a bit of a fiber addict, all those gorgeous yarns tend to draw me in every now and then.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8600939315/" title="Oljett by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Oljett" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8600939315_7f8a716d58.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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This is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/oljett">Oljett Toque by Jenny Gordy</a>. </div>
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Now as my man very blatantly pointed out to me, I don't wear hats. (I'm usually fidgeting with, complaining about or criticizing whatever's on my head), but I really liked the simplicity of the style and the slouchy, relaxed fit. This was my kind of hat!</div>
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So I bought the pattern and yarn then proceeded to stash it away for over half a year. It wasn't until fate led me to <a href="http://harmonyandrosie.blogspot.ca/">this lady</a> (blogger, sewist, knitter and hat maker extraordinaire) who nudged me with some friendly words of encouragement, that I decided to go forth and actually make this hat (thanks again Kate :)) And I just might wear this one!</div>
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For this version (and there will be many more!) I pretty much copied the colour scheme from Jenny's <a href="http://blog.shopwiksten.com/2012/01/oljett-hat.html">blog</a>. I even got my East coast dwelling sister to bring over some of the elusive Brooklyn Tweeds yarn that was recommended but is pretty much impossible to find on this side of the continent. This 'test' version, however, was made with Louet Gems 100% merino wool (superwash) in pure white and pewter (two strands held together) which I purchased at <a href="http://threebagsfull.ca/">my local yarn shop</a>. I was actually expecting more of a speckled look but I guess however way I held my yarn, it turned out more patchy then speckley. I actually like how this looks and think it's kind of fun to look for 'pictures' in the pattern (I see the face of a small dog, perhaps a schnauzer, in the above picture :))</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8584037157/" title="Oljett by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Oljett" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8584037157_2349ae3662.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I pretty much followed the pattern without any changes except for leaving off the little loopy thing at the top which is actually really cute and I should add it later on. I just wanted to finish my hat in time for the windy ferry ride I was going on last week. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8586536322/" title="Oljett by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Oljett" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8586536322_bb78cf8cd9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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So now, as the freezy cold weather and rain seem to have let up and spring has finally arrived on the West coast, I seem to be a wee bit addicted to knitting hats. And after seeing <a href="http://harmonyandrosie.blogspot.ca/2013/03/jul.html">Kate's Jul</a>, I promptly went out and bought that pattern and more yarn (super soft alpaca this time!) and cast on for another hat. </div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-34098451917638385272013-03-14T11:09:00.000-07:002013-03-14T14:02:15.081-07:00dropcloth lucy dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I just finished sewing up a few more 'flutter sleeve' Lucy Dresses and I have to say, I am sooo in love with this fabric! It's Jay McCarroll's Drop Cloth print from the Habitat collection. I've been hoarding this fabric for a while and I'm not sure if it's even available anymore. But seriously, isn't this the best print for an adventurous little girl?!? A modern, funky print that camouflages any spills or stains that might occur in a busy day's work :) </div>
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I also made a couple more chevron print Lucy Dresses with the 'puff sleeves'. </div>
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These dresses are on their way to <a href="http://www.beansprouts.ca/">Beansprouts</a>, a very fun and fabulous kids' clothing shop on Main Street in Vancouver. I probably should mention that I recently started selling my dresses and skirts there, which is why my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/OhHelloRabbit">etsy shop</a> is looking a little bare right now.. So if you're local and are in need of a sweet little dress to take your mind off this rather gloomy weather, head on over! (By the way, these layer really well over leggings or jeans and long sleeves.) And if you're not local and would like a dress, shoot me an email and we can work something out. </div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-18544677896672933232013-03-03T20:52:00.000-08:002013-03-03T23:50:07.649-08:00sleeveless tova<div style="text-align: center;">
This is my second time sewing the <a href="http://www.shopwiksten.com/product/tova-shirt-sewing-pattern">Wiksten Tova</a>, the first, which I'm realizing now, I never actually blogged about (but if you want to check it out, it's over <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7231882706/">here</a>). It's a fantastic pattern and overall, a pretty quick and simple project to sew up. I had finished this sleeveless version about a month ago, but didn't get around to taking pictures until a couple of weeks ago. And then, well, I got side-tracked and blah blah blah... So anyways, here it is.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8501662968/" title="Sleeveless tova by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sleeveless tova" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8501662968_153a82be19.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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I used an off-white, light-weight fabric I bought at a <a href="http://www.oursocialfabric.org/">fill-a-bag event</a> put on by <a href="http://www.oursocialfabric.org/">Our Social Fabric</a> (I had also meant to do a post about this not-for-profit organization whose goal is to keep fabrics out of landfills, but I never did get around to it. If you're interested, Tasia of Sewaholic did a great post about it over <a href="http://sewaholic.net/a-quick-report-on-our-social-fabric-sale/">here</a>.) I thought it was cotton at first, but it doesn't seem to wrinkle very much so I'm now thinking it's a blend of some sort (I haven't ventured into any burn-tests to figure that out though). Anyways, it cost next to nothing and has the subtle stripes throughout it so I thought it would make a sweet tunic top. Although I made this <a href="http://www.shopwiksten.com/product/tova-shirt-sewing-pattern">Tova</a> in the dress length, the sheerness of the fabric pretty much limits me to wearing it as a tunic over leggings or skinnies and a tank, which is pretty much my daily 'uniform' anyways :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8501665180/" title="Sleeveless tova by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sleeveless tova" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8501665180_5be652d0d4.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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The overall construction of this dress/tunic was very simple, especially having left off the sleeves which aren't all that difficult, but a bit finicky with the gathering and all. To finish the arm holes in this version, I just used the bias binding technique from the <a href="http://www.shopwiksten.com/product/tank-top-dress-sewing-pattern">Wikstan Tank pattern</a> which worked perfectly well. The trickiest part of the body is the front yoke which, again, isn't all that difficult if you just sew slowly and carefully when working around the corners. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8501660654/" title="Sleeveless tova by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sleeveless tova" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8501660654_e30ce6c153.jpg" width="375" /></a> </div>
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I made this in the size large (same as my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7231881238/">flannel Tova</a>) and didn't do any adjustments to the pattern other than omitting the sleeves. I love how it fits and looks from the front, but am still having issues with the back which is looking pretty 'tenty' (I didn't manage to get a picture of the back yet but trust me, it's not very flattering). I'm thinking I need to add some darts or cinching or something. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8501659614/" title="Sleeveless tova by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sleeveless tova" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8501659614_e4ab67ccf1.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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Anyways, I've been wanting to learn more about tailoring and pattern alterations, so I decided to sign up for <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/class/sew-the-perfect-fit/173">this pattern fitting course through Craftsy</a>. (They lured me in with the 'we miss you' super promo deal so I actually also signed up for <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/class/pattern-drafting-from-ready-to-wear/191">this 'pattern drafting from ready-to-wear' course</a> which I'm pretty excited about!) I also took out <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sewing-Classic-Clothes-That-Fit/dp/1558705708">this</a> book from the library which I haven't had a chance to really read through yet, but has a nice section on adjusting patterns to your body type. If anyone knows of any other good books or resources for altering patterns or tailoring, please share! I have heard that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fit-Real-People-Clothes-Pattern/dp/0935278656/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1362366935&sr=1-1&keywords=palmer+pletsch">this Palmer/Pletsch book</a> is great, but I haven't gotten my hands on it yet. </div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-43327035766522517082013-02-25T21:18:00.000-08:002013-02-25T21:18:08.031-08:00field trip cargos<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey, did you hear? It's <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2013/02/celebrate-the-boy-2013/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=celebrate-the-boy-2013">Celebrate the Boy</a> time again, hosted by <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/">Rae</a> and <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/">Dana</a>. Since I usually end up making dresses (and dresses and more dresses), I figured now would be a good time to start working on my poor boy's wardrobe. Another thing that's been bothering me lately, is that about 75% of my kid's 'basics' (being jeans, leggings, and tees) come from the Gap. After reading <a href="http://www.overdressedthebook.com/">this book</a> and all the reviews and commentary that's been floating around the web (<a href="http://sewaholic.net/overdressed/">here</a>, <a href="http://www.coletterie.com/books/overdressed-a-conversation-with-author-elizabeth-cline">here</a> and <a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/runway/2012/06/14/do-we-need-to-kick-the-fast-fashion-habit/">here</a> to name a few) I decided that this is the year I'm going to end my dependence on The Gap for basics and start making more myself. So this is what I've started with:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8506938411/" title="Field trip cargos by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Field trip cargos" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8370/8506938411_ab95f73813.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8506938105/" title="Field trip cargos by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Field trip cargos" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8506938105_6cfef0c491.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8506938203/" title="Field trip cargos by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Field trip cargos" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8085/8506938203_38361a9d71.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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These are the <a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns/OLV-OS035FC.html">Field Trip Cargo Pants by Oliver + S</a>. And first off, what a freak'n awesome pattern this is! I made these up in the size 5 but lengthened the leg to the size 6 (for my tall and skinny 5 1/2 year old). I sewed these up over the weekend, a couple hours here and there with many internet and snack breaks in between.. So maybe 4-5 hours total not including sewing prep (tracing the pattern and cutting out the fabric). I'm so bad about keeping track of my sewing time and am easily distracted so projects usually take longer than they should. Anyways, even though I've only sewn up a couple of Oliver + S patterns and I have to say, the design and instructions are genius, well written and so very easy to follow. They include lots of fabulous details like knee darts, a faux fly, belt loops and snazzy top stitching. And I love the fit of these 'homemade pants' which, aside from my fabric choice (which I'll get into in a bit), don't really look 'homemade' at all (at least not to me..) </div>
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So about the fabric.. I found this organic cotton twill at my local Fabricana and although it's supposed to be 'charcoal', it looks a bit more brown to me than gray (and sorry for the crappy pictures taken in seriously bad lighting). The weight and feel of the fabric is great. They are soft and comfortable, but they kind of 'shine'. I realized after making these that most store-bought cargo pants are probably made with a brushed twill/cotton so that they look more 'worn in'. These kinda look a little too 'new' if you know what I mean, so I'm going to try tossing them in the washer a dryer a few times to see if they will look a little more 'worn in'. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8506937827/" title="Field trip cargos by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Field trip cargos" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8506937827_5531156977.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/8508047940/" title="Field trip cargos by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Field trip cargos" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8508047940_12d41c17c2.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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Overall, I'm super happy with the look and fit of these cargos (and yes, C likes them too!) I'm going to try to make these again in a brushed twill or maybe even a denim without the cargo pockets so they are more like a simple pair of jeans. </div>
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Next up will be a basic tee. Thinking of either the <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/02/flashback-skinny-tee-sewing-pattern-is-here/">Flashback Skinny Tee</a> or the <a href="http://www.blankslatepatterns.com/products/hipster-henley">Hipster Henley</a>..</div>
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melissa x</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-86926555693231189582013-02-18T11:16:00.000-08:002013-02-18T11:16:39.621-08:00nothing but goats<div style="text-align: center;">
Alrighty.. it's mid February and I haven't posted anything since November. So, instead of a year end review, or a slew of new years resolutions, I'm giving you this: Two minutes of nothing but goats yelling like humans. Enjoy!</div>
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I'll be back with more sewing/crafting related posts soon!</div>
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(oh, and happy new year!)</div>
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melissa x</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-68803946796017489622012-11-15T13:25:00.000-08:002012-11-15T13:25:13.542-08:00getting ready for market<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wow, mid-November already? These last couple months seem to have just whizzed by! Well, I thought I'd pop by here to share what I've been busy with these last few weeks. I've been getting ready for the <a href="http://dunbarcentre.org/wordpress/?page_id=80">Dunbar Holiday Craft Fair</a> coming up on November 24th. Here are just a few of the things I've been working on:</div>
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Fold up Eco-Totes</div>
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Lucy Dresses</div>
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Drawstring Project & Gift Bags</div>
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Large Stripey Tote</div>
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I've been shopping at this market for years and it's really quite incredible. I think pretty much every room in the building is filled with wonderful local crafty wares for sale (over 140 vendors!) and it's just buzzing with cheerful holiday spirit! This is my first time as a vendor here so I'm super excited to be a part of it all. If you're in the Vancouver Area on November 24th, come on by the <a href="http://dunbarcentre.org/wordpress/?page_id=80">Dunbar Holiday Market</a> from 10-5 and please stop by my booth (in room 212, table 37) to say hi! Hope to see you there! Ok, back to the sewing machine now..</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-33103853056475440542012-09-18T22:35:00.000-07:002012-09-18T22:35:18.063-07:00colette, hazel and random thoughts..This past weekend, Sarai from <a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/">Colette Patterns</a> was in town for a little pattern release party at <a href="http://www.spoolofthread.com/">Spool of Thread</a>. I'm a huge fan of Sarai and her <a href="http://www.coletterie.com/">blog</a> which is always packed with gorgeous design inspirations and expert sewing tips and techniques, so I couldn't wait to meet her in person.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7994295472/" title="Colette at Spool of Thread by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Colette at Spool of Thread" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/7994295472_f1a130c9e2.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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clothing samples (I love this Oolong Dress)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7994294416/" title="Colette at Spool of Thread by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Colette at Spool of Thread" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/7994294416_066e41101b.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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The new Anise Jacket. Totally adorable!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7994298938/" title="Colette at Spool of Thread by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Colette at Spool of Thread" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/7994298938_7a587a21f2.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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The new Juniper Pants. I ended up buying this pattern along with the classic <a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/shop/ginger">Ginger Skirt</a>. Can never have too many wardrobe basics patterns.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7994297586/" title="With Sarai by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="With Sarai" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8302/7994297586_65b1c74613.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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And here I am (being a total groupie) with the fabulous Sarai (who is incredible sweet in person!) I'm wearing my Hazel dress (which is actually my wearable muslin). It was fun to see so many people wearing their Colette creations. For more photos from the party, check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.534181113274660.143574.112987622060680&type=1">the Colette Facebook page</a>.<br />
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I never did end up doing a post on my Hazel dress which I <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/07/specimens.html">started working on</a> way back in July. I actually did finish it over a month ago but didn't get around to taking any pictures of it. Here are the only full dress pictures I took (hmm, looks like this was even before I had finished hemming the dress..) And please try to ignore the dirty deck and garden hose in the background. Not an ideal backdrop but it's all I've got for now.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7666570616/" title="Hazel dress - almost done!! by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Hazel dress - almost done!!" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7127/7666570616_1433183060.jpg" width="374" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7666572702/" title="Hazel dress - almost done! by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Hazel dress - almost done!" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/7666572702_f80ca444a0.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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Although I own about half a dozen Colette patterns, this was actually my first time sewing with a Colette pattern. I have to say that it was probably one of the most well written patterns I've worked with. All the instructions were super clear and it was kind of like I had a little Sarai on my shoulder rooting me on through the process. Now I'm all gung-ho about sewing up my other Colette patterns. Seriously though, if you are at all interested in sewing women's clothing, Colette Patterns (and the <a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/shop/colette-sewing-handbook">Colette Sewing Handbook</a>) are the absolute perfect place to start. Yep, seriously! :)</div>
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And now on to some random thoughts:</div>
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-Speaking of fabulous pattern designers, Shelley from <a href="http://figgyspatterns.com/">Figgy's Patterns</a> is on a mission to create a sewing studio and 'Figgy's Kids' Foundation that will help develop and encourage sewing and crafting skills for kids who may not otherwise be exposed to or have a chance to learn such skills. She has a campaign on <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/figgyssewingstudio">indiegogo</a> where she explains (much better than I am) what her hopes and dreams are for the studio and foundation. I was lucky enough to have been exposed to sewing at a very early age through my mom, and then again in high school home-ec classes and I think what Shelley is trying to accomplish is so important. If you feel the same way, check out her <a href="http://figgyspatterns.com/2012/08/the-dream/">blog post about the campaign</a> and help out if you can.
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-I'm not sure how I missed this but I just read on Melanie's blog, <a href="http://www.asewingjournal.com/home/2012/9/11/book-review-stylish-dress-book.html">A Sewing Journal</a>, that the Japanese sewing book <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/Stylish-Dress-Book-Wear-Freedom-Yoshiko-Tsukiori/9780804843157-item.html">Stylish Dress Book</a> by Yoshiko Tsukiori has been recently translated into English! I have the original Japanese version and have tagged many things I want to make from it. I've sewn with Japanese patterns before but only kid's clothes and bags. Sewing women's clothing from a Japanese pattern still kind of scares me, so I'll definitely be ordering this version.</div>
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-A friend of mine told me about this <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2012/09/the-craft-show-series.html">craft show series</a> of posts on the <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/">Stitched in Color blog</a>. I read through her posts describing her thoughts and reasons for selling at a craft market right through to trying to figure out inventory and booth layout.. It was fascinating! As a relative newbie to the craft market scene (I just started selling at markets last year), I thoroughly enjoyed reading someone else's candid thoughts about it all. There are so many emotions that go with 'putting your stuff out there' for others to see, judge and hopefully buy. I love the craft market scene and for the most part, there is such great energy there. But when it comes down to the planning, the inventory and making, I tend to get stressed out and I think to myself, why am I doing this? I'm in this place right now. Planning and making my inventory for a holiday market that is fast approaching. Do any of you sell at craft markets? Do you find it to be a bit of an emotional roller coaster too?</div>
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x melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-20571232919377025402012-08-29T00:52:00.000-07:002012-08-29T00:52:09.788-07:00a heart. just because.<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7885744402/" title="Heart by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Heart" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8461/7885744402_7e5bff7c94.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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I've been in a bit of a sewing rut lately. Every night, I stare at my machine. Fiddle around with some fabric, and shuffle through patterns, but don't actually get anything done. It's not that I haven't been feeling inspired to sew.. I actually think that I've been feeling a little overwhelmed with everything I want to/have to sew in the next little while. Even though it's still summer, holiday markets are sneaking up fast. I'm signed up for only one market so far but feel like I'm already behind in my sewing for it. Also, with all of the awesome, newly released patterns out there (yup, it's that time of year), I just want to sew up everything I see but am feeling discouraged even before I begin. Really, I just don't feel like I have the time or energy to start any new projects right now.</div>
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So, I figure the best way to pull myself out of this rut is to just sew something. Anything. Preferably something without a pattern or a purpose. Something to sew 'just because'.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7885708360/" title="Patchy heart by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Patchy heart" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8300/7885708360_66d3a7681f.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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Inspired by 'The Family Heart' in Amanda Blake Soule's book <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/handmade_home/">Handmade Home</a>, I tried my best to channel my inner <a href="http://dottieangel.blogspot.ca/">dottie angel</a> while I rummaged through my stash of vintage sheet scraps. Grabbing colours and patterns that may or may not go with one another, I just cut ('no precise measuring tools allowed' as dottie would say) and sewed up this little heart. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7885712046/" title="Patchy heart pocket by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Patchy heart pocket" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/7885712046_464cf64a5c.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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The back is a piece of remnant fabric that was included in a 'craft kit' I picked up from <a href="http://www.smokinglily.com/">Smoking Lily</a> a few weeks ago. I think it's some sort of a wool blend. I stuffed the heart with some leftover wool batting I used when I made my sister's <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/08/the-velveteen-throw.html">lap blanket</a>, and sprinkled some organic lavender in with it just for fun. And of course, added a little pocket for sweet notes, star wars lego pieces, little chocolate bars.. whatever. It's not perfect in any way, and I don't know what I'll do with it, but it makes me happy :)</div>
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x melissa</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-92060831495985918002012-08-15T19:58:00.001-07:002012-08-15T19:58:31.728-07:00pink<div style="text-align: center;">
This post is brought to you by... the colour PINK!</div>
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new pink ballet slippers</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0D6bTMMwSuo/UCxZbJY0XlI/AAAAAAAABTU/drhYV9fCzbU/s1600/pink+wall.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0D6bTMMwSuo/UCxZbJY0XlI/AAAAAAAABTU/drhYV9fCzbU/s320/pink+wall.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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eating pink gelato in front of a pink wall</div>
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learning how to play Kumbaya on a pink ukulele</div>
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the beginnings of pink socks</div>
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x melissa</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-43118304647674592392012-08-12T15:32:00.000-07:002012-08-12T15:32:38.422-07:00the velveteen throw<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGoO1h5gWVI/UCgcrmLjp8I/AAAAAAAABSY/KquDRerANTA/s1600/AMH+lap+blanket4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGoO1h5gWVI/UCgcrmLjp8I/AAAAAAAABSY/KquDRerANTA/s320/AMH+lap+blanket4.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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A few months back, I made a cozy velveteen throw using <a href="http://www.alewivesfabrics.com/fabrics?cat_id=27&prod_id=4612">a tutorial by Alewives Fabrics</a>. I was originally going to buy the whole kit from their shop on the East coast, but shipping (especially for the wool batting) was crazy expensive to Canada, so I (very luckily) managed to find the velveteen and wool batting locally. There used to be instructions for how to make the throw right on the Alewives website but I can't seem to find it now. Just the listing for the <a href="http://www.alewivesfabrics.com/fabrics?cat_id=27&prod_id=4612">kit</a>..<br />
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The throw was super simple to put together. However, being very new to quilting, I did struggle a bit trying to sandwich everything together and keeping it all lined up nicely while I sewed it together.<br />
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The fabrics I used are both from Anna Maria Horner - the velveteen is Summer Totem in Emerald, and the voile is Little Honey in Meadow. The batting is a washable wool batting I found at my local Fabricana. I quilted the throw with embroidery floss ties which I rather randomly placed throughout the throw. Being so light and cozy, this throw has been very well loved, even through the summer months. </div>
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I love this throw so much I decided to make another one for my big sis who lives on the opposite end of the continent from us, but is arriving today for a week long visit (YAY!!) I used the same velveteen in Summer Totem, and the voile is Pastry Line in Saffron.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7768040102/" title="Velveteen Throw by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Velveteen Throw" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8285/7768040102_59826a4581.jpg" width="374" /></a>
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This time, instead of tying the quilt, I used a tack stitch throughout (every 6 1/2") which is actually what is suggested in <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/lap-duvet/">this</a> very similar lap duvet tutorial by The Purl Bee. I definitely prefer the tack stitch to the ties as they were quicker to do and look much tidier and secure then my ties (which I'm sure were not done properly in the first place). I also added a little hanging tab made from some scrap fabric that was used in the packaging for a <a href="http://www.smokinglily.com/2012/08/03/craft-kits-on-sale/">craft kit I bought from Smoking Lily</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7768048648/" title="Velveteen throw tack stitch by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Velveteen throw tack stitch" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7106/7768048648_5caeddea80.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7768123246/" title="Velveteen throw by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Velveteen throw" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8434/7768123246_d30aa4f999.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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I hope she likes it!</div>
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x melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-28526171551171006312012-08-02T22:24:00.000-07:002012-08-02T22:52:59.693-07:00another sweet little dress<div style="text-align: center;">
We are currently going on day 5 of being housebound with a summer virus, and we are all starting to go a little stir-CRAZY. While the kids have been getting crafty with paints (finger painting, painting wood pieces for a birdhouse, painting themselves in the process...), I've been working away at more <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/07/sweet-little-dresses.html">sweet dresses</a>. Here is my latest one.</div>
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I am so in love with the fabrics in this dress. They are both from a Japanese fabric line called Sevenberry. I had seen fabrics from this line on a blog a while ago, but never really heard of or seen much of it since. Then a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a few prints it at my local Fabricana and I have to say, the feel of this cotton is amazing. It feels like a cross between a fine, lightweight quilting cotton and a shirting. And after pre-washing the fabric, there were barely any wrinkles! So awesome! Anyways, I scooped up the remaining 3 meters of the striped fabric and some of the coordinating black floral and whipped up this dress. I absolutely love the delicate pastel flowers mixed in with the bolder black and white stripes. Folksy classic with a bit of an modern edge.</div>
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Lil C was definitely not in the mood for pictures today so this was the only semi-decent shot I got. This is a size 4 with a few modifications (slightly larger width and length of dress and a longer neck elastic). I'm also thinking of adding a pocket or two.. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YzkRhXjKXco/UBs4C-RM7VI/AAAAAAAABSA/CKqJDrXEVEU/s1600/LucyDress-FloralStripe1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YzkRhXjKXco/UBs4C-RM7VI/AAAAAAAABSA/CKqJDrXEVEU/s320/LucyDress-FloralStripe1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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And since it seems I'm a little obsessed with making these <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/07/sweet-little-dresses.html">sweet dresses</a> (6 so far and counting..), I've actually signed on to become a licensed maker of this dress and will be listing a handful of these in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/OhHelloRabbit">shop</a> very soon. </div>
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x melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-21349594116872436312012-07-26T14:29:00.001-07:002012-07-26T14:29:20.394-07:00sweet little dresses<div style="text-align: center;">
Last week I made a <a href="http://leilaandben.com/sweetdress.htm">sweet little dress</a> for a sweet little girl who just turned one year old.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7617002662/" title="Sweet little dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet little dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8011/7617002662_a34c6749d2.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7617001806/" title="Sweet little dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet little dress" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7136/7617001806_c4562322f4.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7617002724/" title="Sweet little dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet little dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8010/7617002724_7082ffab02.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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The pattern is from <a href="http://leilaandben.com/index.htm">Leila & Ben</a> and it really is a darling little dress. I had seen it around on other blogs and Flickr for a while and it seems to be a staple pattern in every <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1293871@N23/">KCWC</a>. I had some of this hot pink chevron in my stash and I think the bold pattern works well with the simplicity of the dress. With only two pattern pieces, this dress was super quick to sew and the instructions were clear and offered some great tips on making this simple dress even easier to sew. Love that.</div>
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I also recently got my hands on some of <a href="http://www.westminsterfabrics.com/pub/singlefabric.jsp?designer=Martha%20Negley&pattern=Feathers&color=Pink&image=null&collection=Farmington&category=0&catname=&newitem=0&new_desc=null">Martha Negley's Farmington Feathers in pink</a> (I LOVE this print and this colourway) so I thought I'd sew up a sweet little dress for lil C.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7651093206/" title="Sweet feather dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet feather dress" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7278/7651093206_88bfaae445.jpg" width="374" /></a>
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I made the size 3T to test out the sizing and I'm thinking these dresses are scaled a bit on the bigger side, or at least are designed to be nice and roomy. Lil C is generally wearing at least a size 4 now and this fits pretty well overall. I did add some length to the elastic around the neck and arms, but I think next time, I will add a wee bit more (maybe 2" total on the neck and 1" on the sleeve cuffs) so it's a little more relaxed.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7651085038/" title="Sweet feather dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet feather dress" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7133/7651085038_9bcf2815af.jpg" width="374" /></a> </div>
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Overall, I think this is a pretty darn awesome pattern and will definitely be making more. I'm already picturing all the different fabrics and combos I want to try making it in.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7651085502/" title="Sweet feather dress by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Sweet feather dress" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8021/7651085502_393abf7bbc.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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And lil C seems to like it. Bandaged knees and all :)</div>
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x melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-69223857746549625832012-07-21T00:27:00.000-07:002013-09-06T22:01:58.839-07:00wiksten tank #3<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7337224770/" title="Wiksten tank #3 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Wiksten tank #3" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7337224770_66c924bee4.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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So about a month or so ago, I made myself another <a href="http://www.shopwiksten.com/product/tank-top-dress-sewing-pattern">Wiksten Tank</a> out of 'good fabric' (and not cheapo wearable muslin fabric). I used a beautiful Lecien Lawn (Memoire a Paris) fabric in a berry and cream colourway I picked up at <a href="http://www.spoolofthread.com/">Spool of Thread</a>. Again I attempted to modify the body a bit (previous tanks <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/03/oh-hello.html">here</a> and <a href="http://ohhellorabbit.blogspot.ca/2012/01/wiksten-tank-muslin.html">here</a>) so that it would be roomy enough in the chest but not too tenty around the waist. I lowered the armhole a bit and adjusted the side seams by measuring 1 1/2" in from the hem and drew a diagonal line to the edge of the armhole. Then I measured approx 1" from the armhole and drew another diagonal line to the edge of the hem as well. So when I followed/sewed the outer line, the side seam curved in a bit around the waistline but then out again at the hem. I don't even know if this makes sense to anyone but I'm writing it in here because the result actually worked for me and I'm hoping to recreate this again using these notes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7337217086/" title="Wiksten tank #3 by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Wiksten tank #3" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7231/7337217086_f6b3870959.jpg" width="374" /></a>
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I took a few pictures of the tank when I finished it but didn't write up a post because I wanted to get a picture of me wearing it so I could show the difference in fit from my previous tanks. But alas and alack, it was not meant to be. Although I've been wearing the tank quite a bit lately, I didn't take any pictures and today, my washing machine decided to take a big-ass bite out of it :(<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjLwREEMwjk/UAosjj-wz9I/AAAAAAAABRU/Vi1mQmxYFAQ/s1600/ripped+Wiksten+tank.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjLwREEMwjk/UAosjj-wz9I/AAAAAAAABRU/Vi1mQmxYFAQ/s320/ripped+Wiksten+tank.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Ah well, I guess it's on to #4 then.</div>
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x melissa</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-62552641057828346712012-07-20T14:13:00.000-07:002012-07-20T20:44:53.621-07:00vintage buster brownI haven't shared much of my thrifting adventures on here in a while, but, goodness, I have been doing a fair bit of it lately. I'm usually on the lookout for vintage sheets, linens, doilies and such. But last month when we took a little family vacation to the island, I found this super sweet Buster Brown skort at a rather massive thrift shop there.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oDK-wUS4s8/UAnHRRnLq0I/AAAAAAAABQ4/nuVzrywsHBo/s1600/BusterBrownSkirt.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oDK-wUS4s8/UAnHRRnLq0I/AAAAAAAABQ4/nuVzrywsHBo/s320/BusterBrownSkirt.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love this skort (yup, shorts in the back) and it's the most perfect tomato-red colour. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2SvX9mk7XI/UAnHSem3z5I/AAAAAAAABRA/5RejezwtPe0/s1600/BusterBrownClose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F2SvX9mk7XI/UAnHSem3z5I/AAAAAAAABRA/5RejezwtPe0/s320/BusterBrownClose.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAKyGKhYOlw/UAnHTqbgppI/AAAAAAAABRI/0S3u92gVIAI/s1600/BusterBrownLabel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qAKyGKhYOlw/UAnHTqbgppI/AAAAAAAABRI/0S3u92gVIAI/s320/BusterBrownLabel.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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It's a size 3 which should be the perfect size for lil C, except for the fact that lil C isn't really very little at all. It just barely fits her, but it was only $2 and she likes it (and I LOVE it), so she'll just have to wear it as much as possible in the next month before she really outgrows it.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7512649400/" title="Parksville Thrift shop goodies by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Parksville Thrift shop goodies" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/7512649400_9e141a8244.jpg" width="374" /></a> </div>
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And here are a few other things I picked up while I was there :)</div>
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x melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-40781525151054194992012-07-16T14:03:00.001-07:002012-07-16T14:03:33.996-07:00specimens<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-812on5LEmZQ/UAR9G99_8vI/AAAAAAAABQI/9MQZ-p2SvEg/s1600/walk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-812on5LEmZQ/UAR9G99_8vI/AAAAAAAABQI/9MQZ-p2SvEg/s320/walk.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Today we went for a walk in search of dinosaur bones.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfxo-s6MdQA/UAR9NrCt8VI/AAAAAAAABQQ/Popbj7cyzKY/s1600/gathering+sticks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfxo-s6MdQA/UAR9NrCt8VI/AAAAAAAABQQ/Popbj7cyzKY/s320/gathering+sticks.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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Found some very interesting specimens.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KU-TtdgtBms/UAR9mW_QC3I/AAAAAAAABQo/ea089A-aRHI/s1600/specimen+drawing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KU-TtdgtBms/UAR9mW_QC3I/AAAAAAAABQo/ea089A-aRHI/s320/specimen+drawing.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And came home to sketch them. </div>
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(Along with a picture of a man sleeping with a dog and, oops, forgot to take off his hat!)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7585437056/" title="Hazel Dress - almost done by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="Hazel Dress - almost done" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7585437056_14a5a2c155.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
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And here's my Hazel dress so far. I just need to get an invisible zipper foot to finish it up. Kicking myself because I was at the sewing shop just on the weekend but didn't want to shell out $28 for an invisible zipper foot. Thought I would be able to sew in the zipper without it, but then remembered the last invisible zipper I tried to sew on with a regular foot turned out rather crappity-crap. So, I'm going to spend the $28 in the hopes that this time, my zipper installation will be beautiful which will make my dress beautiful and I'll wear it all the time and it'll all be worth it in the end. Fingers crossed..</div>
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x melissa</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-68079056412231138872012-07-12T22:06:00.000-07:002012-07-12T22:39:29.579-07:00lazy summer daysThe weather has been just beautiful this past week. Usually when it's this nice out, I feel like we should make the most of it and head to the beaches, playgrounds and water-parks. But for some reason, my kids just didn't feel like leaving the house these last couple of days. At first I felt like we were wasting the gorgeous sunshine (which is kind of rare in these parts), but then isn't summer also about just lazing around without a schedule? Aside from sleeping in until 9, here's a bit of what we've been up to these last couple days.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iVLGu0QBw4/T_-oDG6mwMI/AAAAAAAABO8/WNrJSUut7YI/s1600/summer+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iVLGu0QBw4/T_-oDG6mwMI/AAAAAAAABO8/WNrJSUut7YI/s1600/summer+painting.jpg" /></a></div>
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painting in pajamas (or underwear)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duHVc63xrtw/T_-pKZE8AGI/AAAAAAAABPY/1P9NzsbWN74/s1600/castle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duHVc63xrtw/T_-pKZE8AGI/AAAAAAAABPY/1P9NzsbWN74/s320/castle.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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playing with new birthday toys (my first baby just turned 5!!)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSp8tz7eR5k/T_-pqUKudoI/AAAAAAAABP8/zTKFteL09lw/s1600/walks+with+dolls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSp8tz7eR5k/T_-pqUKudoI/AAAAAAAABP8/zTKFteL09lw/s320/walks+with+dolls.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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taking dolls (and action figures) for little walks</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9tetKjmgJ8c/T_-oHBvj0lI/AAAAAAAABPE/oFRIgVGY5us/s1600/sprinkler.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9tetKjmgJ8c/T_-oHBvj0lI/AAAAAAAABPE/oFRIgVGY5us/s320/sprinkler.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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playing in the sprinkler</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQbZVulxtDk/T_-oIYWXbmI/AAAAAAAABPM/SIcC0cYCZ0g/s1600/lil+c+sprinkler.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQbZVulxtDk/T_-oIYWXbmI/AAAAAAAABPM/SIcC0cYCZ0g/s320/lil+c+sprinkler.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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trying to drink water from the sprinkler</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOuyzIKS9Iw/T_-pLlOWYBI/AAAAAAAABPg/Q5AmafqZRc4/s1600/blueberry+milkshakes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOuyzIKS9Iw/T_-pLlOWYBI/AAAAAAAABPg/Q5AmafqZRc4/s320/blueberry+milkshakes.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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cooling down with homemade blueberry milkshakes</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKNWnAcDEmU/T_-pM2jzSGI/AAAAAAAABPo/km6lKQgshy0/s1600/summer+harvest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKNWnAcDEmU/T_-pM2jzSGI/AAAAAAAABPo/km6lKQgshy0/s320/summer+harvest.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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harvesting greens from our little garden (crunchy summer peas as a snack, kale to be made into kale chips for supper, and mint that I'm hoping will end up in a mojito for me..)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Suaq-6IudQk/T_-pc0axlEI/AAAAAAAABPw/t_7_CKhFkQg/s1600/hazel+dress+prep.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Suaq-6IudQk/T_-pc0axlEI/AAAAAAAABPw/t_7_CKhFkQg/s320/hazel+dress+prep.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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and of course, my new sewing project. I'm hoping to have this finished in the next couple of days so I can wear it out while the weather is still so perfectly summery</div>
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x melissa</div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226967369841262365.post-38197181129026594272012-07-06T00:45:00.001-07:002012-07-06T00:45:28.992-07:00a simple, satisfying projectI was having one of those days yesterday... It felt like I couldn't quite accomplish anything. It was probably the first really sunny day of summer and my kids just refused to leave the house. I managed to get one kid out on our patio for about 20 minutes until a stupid wasp chased him back into the house again. (Truth be told the wasp really was just minding his own business but my kids are still kind of freaked out by them.) Whenever my kids seemed like they were happy doing an activity like painting, playing with trains, dress-up etc, I tried to sneak away to do some sewing or cleaning. But sure enough, once they noticed I wasn't right there with them they came chasing me down.<br />
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By the end of the day I was feeling super annoyed. You know that feeling when there are just so many things that you want to do, but you can't, but then you have a wee bit of time and you don't know where to start? Yup. I was there. After moping around feeling sorry for myself for a while, I decided to sew up a couple of these<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mecadamama/7513156456/" title="The Everything Bag by mecadamama, on Flickr"><img alt="The Everything Bag" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7513156456_0467a4508e.jpg" width="374" /></a>
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Thank you <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.ca/">Jeni</a> for creating <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.ca/2011/10/lined-drawstring-bag-tutorial.html">this pattern</a>. Such a simple, satisfying project. Exactly what I needed :)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08424005952190929489noreply@blogger.com1