confetti shorts

These are party shorts.

I'm not sure why I am so attracted to this busy print (it is very different that what I'd typically choose), but when I saw the fat quarter at the fabric store, I was mesmerized.  Anyone know what it is called?  I don't have a selvage.

After seeing a ruffly version of the Class Picnic shorts pattern at Siestas and Sewing, I really wanted to make a pair.  Problem was, I don't have the Class Picnic pattern (yet).  And I didn't want to wait to get started (I'm so impatient).  So I hacked my own pattern using the Puppet Show short pattern that I love so much as a guide.   I can show you how, if you're interested, as there is a second pair in the works.

Anyway, the shorts are pretty crazy, but also pretty fun.  Just like Ruby.

whimsy couture giveaway winner

Congrats, MommaWard!  I hope you enjoy your Whimsy Couture pattern pack.

even more babies in bonnets

Yesterday, I promised you more babies in bonnets:

It really is my favorite summer hat.

For Cora's hat, I substituted a ruffle for the piping in the brim (I saw it on a bonnet in Rae's photo pool and could not resist).  This is really easy to do.  I just took a long strip of fabric, folded it in half, and gathered it into a ruffle (using the pulling threads method, but next time I'll make it easier on myself and ruffle it with my serger).  Then you attach the ruffle to the brim following the same instructions as you would sew the piping.  It looks really sweet!

Now Cora will match her grandma's really big tote bag.  :)

In conclusion, I really like Rae's Peekaboo Bonnet Pattern (can you tell?). Yay, bonnets!

p.s. today is the last day to enter the Whimsy Couture pattern giveaway.  Get it while it's hot!

babies in bonnets

The Peekaboo Bonnet pattern by Made by Rae is one of my very favorite patterns.  Not only is it super-adorable on the little ones, it also provides superior sun coverage.  And it is the only hat my kids can't seem to wriggle out of.

I have a few in assembly line production right now (so you'll see more soon ... like probably tomorrow), but I finished this beauty this morning and am in love with it.  It is fully reversible with piping on both sides.  I love that this pattern has such a retro feel, but with modern fabric it also looks very fresh.

The babies look extra yummy-squishy with their chubb-o cheeks peeking out of that wide brim.  I can't tell you how many comments I get when my girls wear these bonnets.  They are irresistible!

This bonnet went to our friend, baby Elle.  We've got to keep these babies covered in Santa Barbara!  I have my fingers crossed that the sunshine we've been enjoying stretches into the summer.  June tends to be really foggy and gloomy around here.

Cora now fits the bonnet I made for Ruby last summer.  She's getting a new one, too, though.  I'm pretty sure a baby can't have too many bonnets.

CAMEO to go

Have you seen the rolling totes for the Silhouette CAMEO?

With a padded space for your CAMEO on bottom, and dividers for all of your gear on top, it is a great accessory for the crafter on the go.  There is room for everything (even your laptop!), all in one convenient bag on wheels.  It's pretty, too.  :)

From now until May 31, use the code, JILL, to get a CAMEO/Rolling Tote bundle for $309.99 (save $60).

Already have a CAMEO?  Use the code, JILL, to buy a Rolling Tote for $54.99 (save $15).

Whimsy Couture Pattern Review and Giveaway

I love a good retro-feel pattern, so I was excited to try the Criss-Cross Tunic pattern by Whimsy Couture.

It is an excellent pattern - simple to print and piece together, and the instructions were easy to follow.  I love that the tunic is fully reversible.

The gingham/seahorse print tunic is for Cora and the flower/polka dot tunic is for Ruby and I was really pleased with the fit on both sizes.  I added some pockets to Ruby's shirt and she liked it so much it was worn two days in a row!  It looks cute on its own, or with a shirt underneath.

Whimsy Couture has a huge pattern selection, with everything from simple pieces like tunics, rompers and bloomers, to sweet ruffly dresses.  Something for everyone!  If you'd like to win a 3-pack of patterns of your choice:

•  "like" Whimsy Couture on facebook, and then leave a comment on this post by midnight, Friday, May 25th.
• One entry per person, please.
• Contact information must be provided (if you do not have a public blog/profile, please leave your email address in your comment)
• This giveaway is available to U.S. and international friends (yay!)

Can't wait to start sewing?  Use the code TAKEOFF50 for 50% off your order in the online store through Friday. 

lace trim shorts

Last night I made another pair of Puppet Show Shorts for Ruby - it is such a great little pattern!  I re-purposed  another pair of dad's old work slacks and added some pretty lace trim to the pockets.  I also used a pretty aqua thread, which is hard to see in the photo, but looks really cute in person.

Last week at my sewing studio class, a woman showed up with two carloads of sewing supplies to donate ... fabric, trims, elastics, faux furs, even a dress form!  I really had to restrain my supply hoarding tendencies, but did walk away with yards of this cute trim, 3 inch elastic, and a big piece of lace fabric that I'm really excited about.  Do you have trouble turning away free supplies?  My fabric drawers are so overstocked that they hardly close, but I just can't help myself.

In other news ... can you believe that baby Cora is 6 months old today?  She is such a little doll.  The days are long with three little kids, but time really is going fast.  I'm a lucky mama!

my signature look at Project Run & Play

Hi, blog!  Sorry if you've been feeling neglected lately.  I've spent the first half of this month working on project commitments and haven't had anything to share here ... but I'm back!

Today you can find me over at Project Run & Play talking about my Signature Look.  I'm not sure if I actually have a signature look, or just lack the ability to describe it, but I did my best!  I'm also sharing a little tutorial on how to add a simple doily collar to a garment.  I think it is irresistible, so hopefully you like it, too.

Have you been following this season of Project Run & Play?  The contestants are amazing!  I am floored by their work every week (I mean, I could have DIED when I saw A Little Gray's scorpion jacket for movie week.  It was perfection).  Can't wait to see what the ladies come up with for their signature looks!

What about you?  Are you able to define your signature look?