tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21868148927949136362024-03-13T03:56:09.004-07:00Fern FrisbieChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-28588019109029426462013-03-14T15:05:00.001-07:002013-03-14T15:06:47.627-07:00Ric Rac Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Bnbm8ryVI/UUJF8ELYvoI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/u42HX3n1hHI/s1600/RicRac-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9Bnbm8ryVI/UUJF8ELYvoI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/u42HX3n1hHI/s640/RicRac-3.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
This was my first foray into ric rac. I love the stuff! It added whimsy and color to this project. I had the fabric picked out for a while, and my friend, Heidi, recommended that I use red ric rac. I'm so glad I did!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRQWEk_cXpo/UUJJNOHxPVI/AAAAAAAAASE/hrfkV6HcA9w/s1600/RicRac-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tRQWEk_cXpo/UUJJNOHxPVI/AAAAAAAAASE/hrfkV6HcA9w/s400/RicRac-2.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5CXA1wOmC0/UUJHdaiSPxI/AAAAAAAAARs/8qFVS9z6OXg/s1600/RicRac-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5CXA1wOmC0/UUJHdaiSPxI/AAAAAAAAARs/8qFVS9z6OXg/s400/RicRac-4.jpg" width="267" /></a><br />
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My husband took these photos on a windy day, hence the look of surprise on my face as my dress did a Marilyn Monroe.<br />
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This dress is from a vintage pattern. It is a simple bodice with a gathered dirndl skirt. The gathers aren't quite even, which is why I wore the belt. I would have liked to make a matching fabric belt with a red buckle, but I ran out of fabric. I wish the dress fit a bit better (I didn't do a muslin or anything), but overall I'm so happy with how it turned out!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNU4rgDhCjs/UUJHFULskyI/AAAAAAAAARc/ZrMEPIdDFaY/s1600/RicRac-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNU4rgDhCjs/UUJHFULskyI/AAAAAAAAARc/ZrMEPIdDFaY/s640/RicRac-1.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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Happy sewing,<br />
Christina<br />
<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-35889964278350034212013-02-13T14:46:00.001-08:002013-02-13T14:46:08.467-08:00First 40s Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a crazy love of vintage patterns, and I desperately wanted to try something from the 40s. I stumbled across this pattern at a vintage shop in St. Louis, and dug through my stash to find the perfect fabric! The front center seam was just begging for a chevron design, but this presented quite an issue during cutting. As you can see, it turned out pretty darn good! The dress is a bit thin, so I <strike>had </strike>get to wear a slip with it.<br />
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This dress is a typical 40s silhouette with a snug neckline and broad shoulders. The top is a bit loose because there aren't any darts--just the pleats in the neckline and in the back. The pattern calls for shoulder pads, and at the risk of looking like a linebacker, I just might put some in.<br />
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In all, the dress took about 7 hours to complete (this includes the difficult cutting and redoing the neckline--<i>twice</i>). But hey, I'm still learning!<br />
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An added bonus--I went to the Springfield Antiques Expo this month, and found the perfect Bakelite jewelry to go with the dress! I was hoping for red, but the orange matched nicely (and was a bit less pricey).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqC0LGDqQ_Y/URv9JX4XQjI/AAAAAAAAAPg/sHzU1ldii0E/s1600/40sDress-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqC0LGDqQ_Y/URv9JX4XQjI/AAAAAAAAAPg/sHzU1ldii0E/s320/40sDress-6.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
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I would like to make this dress again with longer sleeves and I might try wool or gabardine to make it a bit dressier. I also did not do any top-stitching,but I will next time I crank out one of these beauties.<br />
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Sew on,<br />
ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-83666424785837746982012-04-09T16:17:00.001-07:002012-04-09T16:17:03.694-07:00Easter Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qVa3le15m4A/T4NshRwh_ZI/AAAAAAAAALU/5tD8x7G9PCc/s1600/Monet-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qVa3le15m4A/T4NshRwh_ZI/AAAAAAAAALU/5tD8x7G9PCc/s640/Monet-1.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NSJgxFH47Hw/T4M--YnR2lI/AAAAAAAAALM/SXuf_1ZA3qM/s1600/4070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NSJgxFH47Hw/T4M--YnR2lI/AAAAAAAAALM/SXuf_1ZA3qM/s1600/4070.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-2091-missmiss-petite-special-occasion-dresses.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 4070, 2011</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Fabric: </b>Drapery fabric from FM (it has been in my stash for about a year or two)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Notions: </b>Thread, invisible zipper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Time to complete: </b>Not sure, but I would guess about 7-8 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Total cost: </b>Probably around $10</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>First worn: </b>Easter 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Wear again? </b>Yes! It may be a bit fancy for work, but I wore it today, anyway. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />When I was young, my mother would often buy me a new dress for Easter. Now that I'm grown, I have somewhat continued the tradition. After all, what girl doesn't like to buy a new dress? Last year I made <a href="http://fernfrisbie.blogspot.com/2011/04/sunday-best-dress.html" target="_blank">this Easter dress</a>, so I decided to make one again this year. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I also continued the tradition of staying up until the wee hours of the morning to finish the dress. Hopefully next year I will only stay up until midnight instead of 1 or 2 o'clock in the morning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sew Happy,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Christina</span></div>
</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-19848282344639781732012-04-02T19:09:00.000-07:002012-04-02T19:11:32.766-07:00Oldie but Goody<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Hi there! So, I dropped the ball this month, and did not do a March creation. Too busy. However, I thought I would dig into my recent past and pull out this lovely.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />I made this dress about three years ago when I finally got back into sewing. There are a few things I would like to change (like the size...it's a wee bit big), but overall I'm pleased with how it turned out.<br /></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iwMd9NBKn5k/T3oQQAxbnlI/AAAAAAAAAKc/t6P0ribVk9U/s1600/2591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 0.2em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iwMd9NBKn5k/T3oQQAxbnlI/AAAAAAAAAKc/t6P0ribVk9U/s200/2591.jpg" width="163" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Pattern: </b>Simplicity 2591, </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2009, I think</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Fabric:</b> Laura Ashley from FM, about $6.00 per yard (about 2.5 yards)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Notions:</b> Invisible zipper, hook and eye</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Time to complete:</b> About 8 hours</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Total cost:</b> About $15.00</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>First worn:</b> Hm...can't remember</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Wear again? </b>Of course...I wear this one a lot. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />When I make this again, I will size it down some (this one is a 10 and I could probably wear an 8 or even 6), and I would like to add piping to the pockets and neckline. I may also do a version with a Peter Pan collar because I think Peter Pan collars make the world a prettier place.<br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">What are some additions that you like to make to patterns?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sew Happy,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Christina </span><br />
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<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-29740501123099231312012-03-27T18:22:00.001-07:002012-04-02T19:11:22.371-07:00Rosie the Riveter<span style="font-family: lucida grande;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">When I was in Kansas City for Christmas, my mom and I went shopping together, and my sister-in-law recommended <a href="http://www.boomerang-kc.com/">Boomerang Vintage</a>. That is where I found these.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />They are a pair of vintage 1950s Levis. I did some scouring on the internet, and I found an image of the ad that originally featured these beauties.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-knYGGsTSVlA/T3EyDYtBJtI/AAAAAAAAAJs/a-6q_339QN0/s1600/50s+Levis+ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-knYGGsTSVlA/T3EyDYtBJtI/AAAAAAAAAJs/a-6q_339QN0/s320/50s+Levis+ad.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Third from the left.</td></tr>
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I also found a couple of pairs going for about $300 on eBay...wow. And no, I am not planning on selling them...</div>
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<span style="font-family: lucida grande;"><br /><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sew happy,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: lucida grande;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Christina</span><br />
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</span>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-18626430797357028032012-03-20T12:21:00.027-07:002012-03-20T14:35:25.833-07:00Horse Dress<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; text-align: left; "><span>I'm posting a bit late, but I finished my February project on February 29th. Thankfully this was a leap year, right?</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZ_1FDOg5_8/T2jZAhCmCMI/AAAAAAAAAH4/ZTzARk4F1XY/s400/479902_10100247535354304_34306371_43903972_690365463_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722061929466693826" /><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3FUW49TTqr0/T2jgHazkdnI/AAAAAAAAAJY/gGDHbI3r5ik/s200/Pattern.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722069744633542258" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 200px; " /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>Fabric:</b> Quilting fabric from FM, about $4 a yard</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>Pattern:</b> Simplicity 4447</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>Year:</b> Not entirely sure, but I'm guessing late 50s</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b style="font-size: 100%; ">Notions:</b><span style="font-size: 100%; "> 5 buttons</span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>Time to complete:</b> About 8 hours including cutting</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>First worn:</b> March 1, 2012</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span><b>Wear again?</b> Definitely! I've already worn it twice! </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><br /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; "><span>This dress has been lovingly dubbed by my husband as "The Horse Dress" since it has a western theme. Once I saw it at FM, I fell in love with the vintage-inspired print and knew I had to make something out of it.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wvgqiHWP2hQ/T2jahhgJuxI/AAAAAAAAAIE/Ni2NzRPh2dY/s400/480029_10100247537689624_34306371_43904025_1026686976_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722063596037978898" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " /></span><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; "><span><span>This was also my first foray into piping. I think it turned out r</span><span>ather nicely, no? </span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l78Sd91jmhE/T2jaywofKFI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/YYBwhWcFUDo/s400/481783_10100247536457094_34306371_43903994_959244649_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722063892157245522" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span>The hardest part by far was gathering the skirt. This sucker is FULL. Also, I would add an invisible zipper because right now, there is an opening beneath the last button and I am always paranoid that it is going to fly open and show everyone my undies. Other than that, I think this dress turned out fabulous! </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; "><span>On another note, my husband and I had some fun with this shoot!</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; "><span><u><br /></u></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: medium; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaH5j39eK7Y/T2jcUc0JI3I/AAAAAAAAAIc/-RfQryxCys0/s400/421657_10100247536896214_34306371_43904005_839423224_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722065570464605042" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AXS08V-frk0/T2jdH138LpI/AAAAAAAAAIo/xk1EXAW7a4E/s400/483503_10100247535978054_34306371_43903985_2054745113_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722066453364747922" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 400px; " /><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 100%; text-align: center; "><span><u><br /></u></span></div></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: center; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EqFenfJyxYA/T2jdaQEcdbI/AAAAAAAAAI0/tMYnJmGhiT4/s400/417029_10100247537105794_34306371_43904010_884668406_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722066769634162098" style="text-align: left; font-size: medium; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline; float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 204px; height: 400px; " /></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: center; "><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HZ9d71dIKe8/T2jeMbT93-I/AAAAAAAAAJM/by-MCZ7WMZ0/s400/488074_10100247537280444_34306371_43904014_217360519_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722067631645515746" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 371px; height: 400px; " /><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms'; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left; "><span>Sew happy,</span></div><div style="text-align: left; "><span>Christina</span></div></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-56696589481967103192012-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:002012-01-31T14:25:28.917-08:00This Dress is Apples!<div style="text-align: left;"><span>I know it has been a VERY long time since my last post. Since I started a full time job, I have come to the realization that I need to learn to budget my time better in order to continue to do the things I love to do. Which brings me to my New Year's resolution - a few weeks late, I know - to complete two sewing projects a month. My inspiration is <a href="http://www.sewweekly.com/">The Sew Weekly</a>. In 2011, Mena Trott and four other contributors completed sewing projects based on weekly themes. If you are a seamstress, you must follow this blog.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div><span>This dress is one of my favorites:</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><img style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bCUJoRmlAYU/TyhhRzHo8gI/AAAAAAAAAG4/yTKIBr9TwTs/s400/MenaTrott.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703915886472655362" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.sewweekly.com/2011/09/the-hips-dont-lie-dress/">Hips don't lie...</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div><span>I decided on two projects a month because sewing a new item every week seemed a bit daunting to me - I have a full time job (and a full closet!) and friends and family that I like to see on a regular basis. So, every two weeks seemed to me to be the magic number. And, I've already made three items for the month of January!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div><span>So, since I celebrated my 32nd birthday this month, I decided to make myself a dress...a fun and vintage inspired dress.</span></div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yhTpje3BF9Y/TyhhYs1ZVHI/AAAAAAAAAHE/-nbevwKERwM/s400/DSC_0057-01.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703916005044606066" style="text-align: center; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-au9Tsr1wTaA/TyhlsEZUgoI/AAAAAAAAAHc/RnGhu_OXjcA/s200/Pattern.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703920735833326210" style="float: left; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 200px; " /></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><span><b>Fabric:</b> Quilting fabric from Hancock Fabrics, $7.00 per yard (about 2.5 yds)</span></div></div></div><div><div><span><b>Pattern:</b> Simplicity 4447</span></div><div><span><b>Year:</b> Not entirely sure, but I'm guessing late 1950s</span></div><div><span><b>Notions: </b>5 vintage buttons, invisible zipper</span></div><div><span><b>Time to complete:</b> About 7 hours, including cutting</span></div><div><span><b>First worn:</b> January 29, 2012</span></div><div><span><b>Wear again?</b> Definitely! I've already worn it twice!</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>First of all, I love this print! I went fabric shopping with my mother-in-law, and she kindly purchased this for me. I kept waiting to make something because I knew I had <i>just </i>enough to make a dress...I just wasn't sure which one. Well, I went to Kansas City for my mother's 50th birthday party, and I snagged 26 vintage patterns from one of the local thrift shops, including the one I used for this dress. </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><div><div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTrGgF_GCP8/TyhiqPG_ZII/AAAAAAAAAHQ/fDPtlUHdRFk/s400/DSC_0059-01%2B%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703917405814613122" style="text-align: center; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px; " /></div></div></div><div><span>Now, I did not make a muslin before starting with my precious 2 and 1/2 yards of fabric, but thankfully it all worked out. I added about an inch in the hips, and when I make this dress again, I will probably take in the top just a bit and lower the darts. You can't really tell, but the darts are about an inch and a half too high. Over all, I couldn't be happier with how this turned out!</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Sew happy,</span></div><div><span>Christina</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Outfit details:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Dress: Handmade by me from a vintage pattern</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Shoes: MIA, thrifted for $1.50</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Stockings: Vintage, thrifted for .50 cents.</span></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-66483492358447656012011-06-13T10:09:00.000-07:002012-04-02T19:11:43.944-07:00Spring BridesmaidsIn March, my lovely friends Dana Nairn and Phil Bridges were married.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4T6_qvTRkw8/TfZFY0nDGrI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Apzy6QfxmiM/s1600/188801_10150142235014248_503954247_6335232_4505972_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4T6_qvTRkw8/TfZFY0nDGrI/AAAAAAAAAE0/Apzy6QfxmiM/s320/188801_10150142235014248_503954247_6335232_4505972_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617753877932874418" border="0" /></a>Dana and I both share a love of sewing and crafting, so when she asked if I would make her bridesmaid dresses, I graciously accepted the task.<br /><br />Her colors were bright, spring colors, and after multiple trips to the fabric store, we decided on a lovely green taffeta with green lace.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hmwk75ozqvU/TfZF8Dhqf7I/AAAAAAAAAE8/LpgGAWBN48c/s1600/4300.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hmwk75ozqvU/TfZF8Dhqf7I/AAAAAAAAAE8/LpgGAWBN48c/s320/4300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617754483232243634" border="0" /></a><br />I absolutely love these dresses! The green is so lovely, and it is a color that works on many people. I also loved Dana's idea of making the contrast band out of lace. We decided to make the dress with three different necklines--cross-body v-neck, square neck, and a scalloped neckline--for the three bridesmaids (myself included!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9YjMsjWf0Z4/TfZRREJniaI/AAAAAAAAAFM/T5Y0DostM64/s1600/1800.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9YjMsjWf0Z4/TfZRREJniaI/AAAAAAAAAFM/T5Y0DostM64/s320/1800.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617766938804980130" border="0" /></a><br />The wedding was very whimsical with a lot of DIY decorations, and I was so happy to be a part of it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_57mx1XFA8/TfZRtgwXuEI/AAAAAAAAAFU/9abRASZdaIs/s1600/8500.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_57mx1XFA8/TfZRtgwXuEI/AAAAAAAAAFU/9abRASZdaIs/s320/8500.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617767427520051266" border="0" /></a><br />Sew Happy,<br />ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-70933317594241425572011-04-29T11:52:00.000-07:002012-03-20T14:35:33.043-07:00Tuxedo Dress<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">My third item for Red Velvet Art is done!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hp7JRJSuLuE/TbsLJES49EI/AAAAAAAAAEg/JTngm79OLGE/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hp7JRJSuLuE/TbsLJES49EI/AAAAAAAAAEg/JTngm79OLGE/s320/DSC_0044.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601082811965043778" border="0" /></a>I call this the Tuxedo Dress because the cream color and velvet bow tie reminds me of a woman's version of a tuxedo.<br /><br /></div></div>This is a lace A-line dress with a black velvet collar and bow tie detail.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oHCTTf4E1v4/TbsLcIU8DVI/AAAAAAAAAEo/6d0XXjymsyc/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oHCTTf4E1v4/TbsLcIU8DVI/AAAAAAAAAEo/6d0XXjymsyc/s320/DSC_0045.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601083139464891730" border="0" /></a><br />It also has a scalloped hem and is fully lined. Again, I might have to make one of these for my very own...is it okay to wear cream to a wedding?<br /><br />Sew happy,<br />ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-3469558459654870722011-04-28T08:15:00.001-07:002011-04-28T18:24:29.803-07:00Jump for my LoveWhen I was growing up, my grandmother made most of my clothes--including jumpers. Now that I am in my 30s (yikes!), I still love the idea of a one-piece outfit that is not a dress. So, I've been thinking of making a few jumpers of my own.<br /><br />I really love the clean look of this jumper from <a href="http://usa.frenchconnection.com/index.aspx?mscsmigrated=true">French Connection United Kingdom</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EMH1yLxHW6Q/TbmFZA1Gc-I/AAAAAAAAADw/7EujBJXgi9o/s1600/Jumper-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EMH1yLxHW6Q/TbmFZA1Gc-I/AAAAAAAAADw/7EujBJXgi9o/s320/Jumper-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600654276377867234" border="0" /></a>I think it is something that I could wear as a 30-something and not feel like a little girl...not that feeling young is a <span style="font-style: italic;">bad</span> thing. I just wish we could wear shorts at work...<br /><br />This jumper (also from French Connection) has an 80s vibe that I absolutely love.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rzDGGIhh0g/TboQE6ug0KI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/AccayRnoEKY/s1600/7GBB5_2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rzDGGIhh0g/TboQE6ug0KI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/AccayRnoEKY/s320/7GBB5_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600806763258499234" border="0" /></a>I'm not sure if I'm crazy about the print, but I love the way it drapes, and it looks really comfortable. I would also make mine a tad bit longer...I'm a bit modest.<br /><br />This one is beyond adorable!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N25iISRCV9g/TbmGqJYA2XI/AAAAAAAAAEI/lt1pfix4G8c/s1600/Jumper-3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N25iISRCV9g/TbmGqJYA2XI/AAAAAAAAAEI/lt1pfix4G8c/s320/Jumper-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600655670241188210" border="0" /></a>Anyone who knows me well knows that I am a sucker for flowered prints. I think this print works really well with the "fun" feel of this jumper, and even though it's a bit busy, it just looks so stinkin' cute!<br /><br />Luckily, I found this pattern at <a href="http://vintagevicestore.com/">Vintage Vice</a> and I plan on trying it out (with a few alterations to make it a bit more modern).<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-polL4GjQJlc/TboQqCiN3tI/AAAAAAAAAEY/hCHD4HFC-GA/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-polL4GjQJlc/TboQqCiN3tI/AAAAAAAAAEY/hCHD4HFC-GA/s320/DSC_0035.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600807401009569490" border="0" /></a><br />Needless to say, I'm glad that these little gems have made a comeback, and I am looking forward to making one of my own.<br /><br />Sew happy,<br />ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-12274324882665421022011-04-26T11:16:00.000-07:002011-04-27T15:44:43.401-07:00Sunday Best Dress<div>My second item for my Red Velvet Art line is complete! </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqGUluEWqUw/TbcNczb6hYI/AAAAAAAAADo/tytXdf2UTDQ/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqGUluEWqUw/TbcNczb6hYI/AAAAAAAAADo/tytXdf2UTDQ/s320/DSC_0027.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599959450153289090" border="0" /></a>I just had to have one for myself, so I stayed up late Saturday night making an extra for me to wear on Easter Sunday. It was such a fun dress to wear with gray tights and oxfords, and the fabric is super soft, so it was comfy as well. <div><br /></div><div>This dress has pleats in front and back, an ascot tie collar, and a side zipper. With the higher waist and A-line skirt, this dress would be flattering on just about anyone and perfect to wear when you are putting on your "Sunday best." </div><div><br /></div><div>Sew happy, </div><div>Christina<br /><div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-74565827686524244922011-04-19T09:49:00.000-07:002011-04-27T15:45:06.937-07:00Twilight Stroll<div style="text-align: center;">I finished my blouse for Red Velvet this morning!</div><div><br /><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pMcLwa7eDCQ/Ta2-F4IUlwI/AAAAAAAAADY/TeL2A2hbtdc/s320/DSC_0016.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597338920067307266" border="0" /><div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zTyHTxdK0oA/Ta2-h3jBW6I/AAAAAAAAADg/kQMyRW5JcPw/s320/DSC_0017.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597339400947194786" border="0" /></div><div>It is a sheer blue polyester blouse with lace detail and a little pink button back. I love this and kind of wish I could keep it for myself. I suppose that is a good sign because other ladies will love it, too!</div><div><br /></div><div>The polyester was a bit difficult to work with at times, and I wish that I had a serger to make the seams a little more clean. I did finish the seams, but serging would have been a bit easier. I really liked how the cap sleeves and lace neckline turned out! I also like the versatility of this blouse--it could be casual with a pair of jeans or dressy tucked in with a high waisted pencil skirt. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once all of the items are done, I would like to do a "look book" to show ways to wear the items, so be on the look out for that once I'm done! </div><div><br /></div><div>On to the the next thing...</div><div><br /></div><div>Sew happy,<br /></div><div>Christina </div><div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-8872593251029677452011-04-18T11:54:00.001-07:002011-04-28T18:19:37.974-07:00Monday, MondayToday I will be continuing work on my projects for <a href="http://www.shopredvelvet.com/">Red Velvet</a>. I am hoping to get some pictures up tonight or tomorrow of my first item! Now, I just need to find some good music for motivation. I am thinking She and Him for today since Zooey is one of my many inspirations...<div><br /></div><div><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pZ3cTwI9bIw" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" width="640"></iframe></div><div><div><br /></div><div><div>Sew happy, </div><div>Christina </div></div></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-49499218645288388362011-04-14T06:38:00.000-07:002011-04-28T18:19:52.054-07:00Factory GirlEdie Sedgwick had such effortless style...black tights, leotards, chandelier earrings, and the cutest pixie haircut.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ob1-RtPSXEc/TacCIw2uJuI/AAAAAAAAACY/ts2p67XJSWs/s1600/7582_Edie_Sedgwick2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ob1-RtPSXEc/TacCIw2uJuI/AAAAAAAAACY/ts2p67XJSWs/s320/7582_Edie_Sedgwick2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595443411607758562" border="0" /></a><br />She was the first "it girl" in the mid 60s and hung around people like Andy Warhol and Bob Dylan, and starred in Warhol films like <span style="font-style: italic;">Poor Rich Girl </span>and <span style="font-style: italic;">Kitchen.<br /><br /></span>Some people refer to Edie as the Paris Hilton of the 60s--they both are heiresses and are famous for not doing much at all, but the similarities stop there. Edie had style. She wasn't raunchy or tacky. Her personal life was not something that most people would be proud of, but if you look into her history and family life, it's not surprising that she dealt with issues like anorexia and drug abuse. Sadly, she died of a lethal combination of alcohol and drugs on November 16, 1971.<br /><br />In 2006, Sienna Miller played her in the movie <span style="font-style: italic;">Factory Girl, </span>and many of the outfits she wore were vintage...striped mini dresses, fur coats, and a leather Gatsby hat.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13GkmgZGfr4/TacGm7vxTSI/AAAAAAAAAC4/IfZPCBpoPl0/s1600/47389.6a00d83451b05569e20133ee2940fa970b-pi.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 198px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-13GkmgZGfr4/TacGm7vxTSI/AAAAAAAAAC4/IfZPCBpoPl0/s320/47389.6a00d83451b05569e20133ee2940fa970b-pi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595448327973981474" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0MtUbgFSdY8/TacIpoj8olI/AAAAAAAAADA/1QxlFDKfBco/s1600/2289959293_62207725f3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0MtUbgFSdY8/TacIpoj8olI/AAAAAAAAADA/1QxlFDKfBco/s320/2289959293_62207725f3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595450573386981970" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iq7bLNPvvjQ/TacIv6GYyzI/AAAAAAAAADI/ppsLdXFbP0A/s1600/factorygirlpic6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 223px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iq7bLNPvvjQ/TacIv6GYyzI/AAAAAAAAADI/ppsLdXFbP0A/s320/factorygirlpic6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595450681174051634" border="0" /></a><br />She pulled off Edie's style as effortlessly as Edie herself. I would like to start a line inspired by Edie Sedgwick--that 60s mod look of dark tights, nautical stripes, and comfortable clothing you can feel free in and move like her.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih4OESf019o/TacGX6r_0kI/AAAAAAAAACw/vHBrX5pf6r4/s1600/1433d.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 308px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ih4OESf019o/TacGX6r_0kI/AAAAAAAAACw/vHBrX5pf6r4/s320/1433d.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595448069991682626" border="0" /></a><br />Sew happy,<br />ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2186814892794913636.post-14555934137812021882011-04-13T13:13:00.000-07:002012-04-02T19:12:50.396-07:00Light BulbDo you ever have those moments when you think of a great idea, and you feel the excitement of starting something new, sharing the idea with others, or getting started on that particular idea? A few months ago I had one of those moments.<br /><br />I was driving from St. Louis to Springfield with Philip, and we were having one of our "on the road" conversations about goals, dreams, getting out of debt, trips we will take, etc. During this particular conversation, I decided I wanted to start an online clothing shop. I've always loved clothing as an expressive art form, and at one time I even wanted to be a fashion designer. We brainstormed for about an hour, and came up with fern frisbie. Fern was my great grandmother who taught me to sew, so it seemed fitting that her name be the moniker for my new endeavor.<br /><br />Sometimes we find that dreaming is a lot easier than doing. I found myself excited about the idea, and I jumped right into designing business cards, starting an Etsy site, and even purchasing fabric, but I hadn't made a single item. I knew I needed some extrinsic motivation, and an acquaintance of mine was opening an expanded vintage and handmade clothing shop (with a cupcakery, I might add!) called <a href="http://www.shopredvelvet.com/">Red Velvet</a>. With a hopeful heart, I put on my "coolest" outfit and headed over. I spoke to her about making clothing for her shop, and she told me to send her some pictures. She also said that I had "great style." For those of you that know Elsie, this was a huge compliment for me. So, I sent her some pictures and waited for a while.<br /><br />About a month and a half ago, Elsie sent me an e-mail letting me know that she wanted to meet with me. We met at her shop and discussed what items would work, color schemes, and ideas. She is an absolute doll and gave me wonderful direction. Now, I have the motivation I needed and I have been brainstorming, designing, cutting, and sewing like mad since our meeting. It's a bit stressful, but wonderful to be doing something that I love, and knowing that after May 1st, I will have clothing in a nationally recognized store! I think this may be the first dream from my on the road conversations that is coming true...<br /><br />Sew happy,<br />ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07624719849126711786noreply@blogger.com2