tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69939068418892310552024-02-19T10:18:33.387+08:00the Toffee Tree...for playful, unique stitchery...thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-50727497779906065792017-06-29T14:42:00.002+08:002017-06-29T14:44:02.001+08:00{ PATTERN TESTING} Penny Blouse by Jilly Atlanta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ooo-la-la! French seams on a beautiful blouse mean that this Penny blouse, by Jilly Atlanta is as gorgeous on the inside as the outside. No overlocker required and the finish is perfection. This blouse has some lovely options - little flutter sleeves, a tie collar with either a bow or knot finish (I opted for the knot) or a v-back with no collar. The back is finished with buttons. I made the size 6 in a size 5 width for Anya and it fits her beautifully (she normally wears a 5-6). I chose not to add the little snaps to the back collar as I like how the collar sits with it's little wings out!<br />
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In a serious pose...</div>
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Or with crazy eyes...</div>
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and ants in your pants miss silly...if anyone has tried taking photos of a 5yo before 8am you will know they have boundless energy and do not wish for standing still!! </div>
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<u><i>Overall</i></u></div>
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<ul>
<li>Fit - perfect</li>
<li>My favourite feature - the french seams and bias arm and neck binding inside</li>
<li>Self dressing factor - back buttons - make it tricky for anyone to dress themself but with the top two buttons undone it's a cinch. </li>
<li>Ease of sewing - beginner </li>
<li>Instructions - clear pictures, well described concise instructions</li>
<li>Time - approx 1.5 hrs sewing time </li>
<li>Would I make it again - definitely YES!</li>
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<u><i>Supplies</i></u></div>
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Pattern: Penny Blouse by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/JillyAtlanta" target="_blank">Jilly Atlanta</a><br />
Fabrics: Art Gallery Fabrics 'Wonderful Things' Aquarelle Wash Study and Splendid Oath Rain from <a href="https://www.utopianthreads.com.au/" target="_blank">Utopian Threads</a></div>
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Accessories: jeans and boots model's own ;) </div>
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<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-5139610696629131872017-03-31T22:12:00.001+08:002018-01-23T22:42:12.132+08:00{ PATTERN REVIEW } The Mira Dress <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At any given the opportunity, I love to make stuff for my own kids and myself! Heidi from <a href="http://www.eleganceandelephants.com/" target="_blank">Elegance and Elephants</a>, the designer of the bubble pocket shorts we love so much, put a call out for pattern testers for the <a href="http://eandepatterns.bigcartel.com/product/mira-dress-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Mira Dress </a>and I <strike>stuck my hand up </strike> filled out the form. She said I could join in the fun and test a size 9. Lucky for me, I have friends with girls in just about every age group who are willing models!</div>
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It was no surprise that when I started making a dress, Anya assumed it was going to be hers which lead to a lengthy decision making process on which fabric...which colour and no that one- we don't have enough ...yes we can use two fabrics... no, not those two together...but she wants those ones for her dress...oh dear. In the end, I made 4 dresses and we love all of them!!</div>
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I really love this black floral fabric (an Art Gallery Fabric called Central Park Fog in the Gramercy range by Leah Duncan) and it goes so beautifully with a solid yellow, which was a 'slub voile' from Spotlight. I had plenty of this fabric so made just the bodice first to make sure the adjustments I'd made were OK. Turns out it was a really great fit, perhaps a smidge snug (one of the seams was a little narrow on the test pattern, though that has been corrected) but a spot on fit for Miss C. This was made to my model's exact measurements - size 7 chest, size 10 height - so there was a bit of fiddling to make sure I had the right length the torso, shoulder height and neckline. I'm really happy how it turned out and love the detail in the rushed front panel alongside the black piping. </div>
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Blue and white is one of my all time favourite colour combos on this girl! This one for Anya is a size 5, adjusted to size 6 length and the fit is absolutely spot on. It fits beautifully with a bit of room to grow.<br />
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Not only was I excited with how this colour blocked panel turned out, the girls both loved it too! Anya was a little sad this spotty dress wasn't hers! A little creative cutting was required and I needed to use a solid strip to get the length I needed for the size 9. I cut a straight size 9 for this one, and while it looks a bit wide on Miss C's shoulders, she is a size 7 around the chest and a size 10 height. The neat thing about this dress now is that we can add another panel around the skirt as she gets taller, underneath the navy blue, without it looking too wacky.<br />
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The blue 'raindrops' was the first Mira dress I made. I'm not super keen on the hot pink front panel, but that's what the girl wanted, so the girl got and she is happy. I made the second one for her because I really wanted to use the blue and white gingham and make her a dress in that!<br />
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<u><i>Overall</i></u></div>
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<ul>
<li>Fit - excellent </li>
<li>My favourite feature - the ruched centre front panel</li>
<li>Self dressing factor - straight sizes easy for 5 year old and 8 year old (size 9) // mixed sizes - consider extending the zipper lower into the dress skirt, especially for a tall slim build. </li>
<li>Ease of sewing - beginner to advanced beginner </li>
<li>Instructions - clear pictures, well described concise instructions*</li>
<li>Time - approx 1.5-2 hrs sewing time (took me approx 7 hours to do all 4 including piecing bodice and piping*)</li>
<li>Would I make it again - definitely YES!</li>
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*pattern does not include piecing instructions for the colour blocked bodice or instructions for adding piping. </div>
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<u><i>Supplies</i></u></div>
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Pattern: <a href="http://eandepatterns.bigcartel.com/product/mira-dress-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Mira Dress</a> by <a href="http://www.eleganceandelephants.com/" target="_blank">Elegance and Elephants</a></div>
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Fabrics: Slub Voile // Leah Duncan, Gramercy, Central Park Fog (Art Gallery Fabrics) // Erin McMorris, Summersault, Raindrops // Shine Bright, Voile Spotlight // Sarah Jane, Sommer, Painted Gingham in Berry </div>
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Accessories: <a href="http://squirrelandfink.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Squirrel & Fink</a> polar bear and unicorn necklaces, hair Big Bow from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BelleRoseBoutiques/" target="_blank">Belle Rose Boutique </a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "beyond the mountains"; font-size: 26.6667px;">xMichelle</span></div>
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thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-19273343645489236222017-02-11T22:59:00.000+08:002017-03-31T22:19:57.677+08:00{QUILT} Finally...THE Minecrafty Quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It feel like it's been forever...who am I kidding? It <i>has </i>been <i>FOREVER</i>. The beginning of this was over a year ago. The mammoth project started about 4 weeks before Keegan's 8th birthday. He's well over 9 now, so lets just say we are ALL happy on all accounts that this quilt is COMPLETE. </div>
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He has duly reminded me many times over the past 18 months that he is still waiting for it. The thought of surprising him with it was my initial though, but I realised he'd have fun designing his favourite blocks into quilt squares, so I didn't do that. Lucky! I was a bit surprised he didn't want the TNT block (I really wanted to do that because it would have been waaaay easier than THE FISHING ROD that he did want).<br />
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We designed some of our own blocks using graph paper and coloured pencils - the fishing rod, powered rail, torch, egg, bookcase and enchantment table. Because we are both a little bit particular (him more so than me) about things looking <i>right, </i>most of the blocks had to be 16 x 16 squares (yes, your maths is correct if that came out to 256 itty bitty squares <i>for each block</i>). What a biatch they were. Of course that's why it took me so long. The thought of lining them up <i>exactly. Gah. </i><br />
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And sewing them into the <i>exact same size squares</i>. This is probably Basic Quilting 101 but I'm not a seasoned quilter. You can probably skip this bit if you are. The key here is in the 1/4" seam allowance. Because I hadn't done all of the blocks in one hit, I couldn't remember how far out my machine's guide was. Turns out, it is quite out. Like 1mm. 1mm over 16 blocks equates to 1.6cm!! That results in a lot of trimming, re-sewing seams and a few swear words.<br />
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There are however plenty of good uses for a block that doesn't quite turn out square. A cushion. A wall hanging. A pencil case.<br />
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My advice is to double check <i>every seam.</i> I recommend you iron seams flat, measure, re-measure the finished size then finally trim the seam allowances last. It's much harder to sew the straight lines once you've disrupted your lovely fusible grid holding everything close together. <i> </i>Some of my blocks don't line up perfectly but you can't tell. Right. <br />
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A tip on ironing the seams open or to one side - I wouldn't bother ironing the seams open. It made no difference to the finished quilt and it takes ages <i>and ages and ages </i>longer. I started the quilt ironing seams open and by the end, they were ironed to the side. Care factor was waning and really it made no difference.<br />
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The whole pattern for this twin size quilt was based on one from Slightly Off Quilter, who put it together for one of her fellow quilters in a discussion board, which can be found <a href="http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/minecraft-quilt-help-please-somewhat-challenged-quilter-t242486.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The base pattern measurements are for 16 x 16" square blocks (finished size). Each block has eight rows and eight columns (64 blocks) made from blocks cut to 2.5" square. The blocks with the tiny squares - 16 x 16 squares (256 blocks) had squares cut to 1.5"x 1.5".<br />
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I found a fabulous tip from Tricia at My Rainy Day Designs about using <a href="http://myrainydaydesigns.com/news/using-fusible-grid-with-small-squares/?hvid=18cZbH" target="_blank">fusible grid paper</a> to line up the squares. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND doing this. You are welcome. If you can't find fusible grid paper, plain fusible interfacing works well with lines drawn on it in pencil or pen. Tricia did have patterns of blocks listed on Craftsy, but apparently the Minecraft powers that be weren't too keen on that. So you will need to use your eyes and imagination to recreate the blocks all by yourself.<br />
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I may not have used 50 shades of grey, but this quilt does have over 40 shades of colour! 9 shades of green, 7 shades of brown, 3 shades of grey, 8 shades of blue, 3 shades of red, skin colour - 4 shades, 2 shades of yellow and two of orange, white, black and a few purples thrown in for good measure!<br />
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<a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/" target="_blank">Clair's Fabrics</a> is an excellent place to start for a massive range of Kona solids and is where I began my search for solid colours. I use my local quilting store <a href="http://sewingperth.com.au/" target="_blank">Southlands Sewing Centre </a>to source the colours I didn't have and needed to match, sometimes you just need to go and buy fabric in real life! The green backing is called Broken Stripes, which I bought that from another one of my favourite online fabric stores, <a href="https://utopian-threads.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">Utopian Threads</a>. The minecraft strip was originally from Spoonflower though I scored it through a destash group on Facebook. Keegan was pretty insistent that I used it, and since he really didn't want the green backing I'd bought, I had to aquiesce somewhere!<br />
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Was a little breezy trying to take photos today!<br />
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I had the quilting done by the fabulous Michelle (she has to be fabulous with that name!) from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/kwerkiquilting" target="_blank">Kwerki Quilting </a>who came recommended from a friend. We absolutely love the job she has done on this, it's truly amazing. If I'd quilted this myself, we'd be waiting at least another year for some substandard straight lines! She had it done in just over a week with this fancy pants geometric pattern.<br />
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In the beginning, this was going to be a 'twin' size quilt. Somehow it's ended up a bit bigger - perfect to hang down the sides of the bed and for snuggling under on the couch. I hope you feel a little bit inspired to try something for your own minecrafty peeps!<br />
<u><i><br /></i></u>
<u><i>Supplies</i></u><br />
Pattern by Slightly Off Quilter <a href="http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/minecraft-quilt-help-please-somewhat-challenged-quilter-t242486.html" target="_blank">here</a> and My Rainy Days <a href="http://myrainydaydesigns.com/news/using-fusible-grid-with-small-squares" target="_blank">here</a><br />
Fabrics from <a href="http://www.clairsfabrics.com/" target="_blank">Clair's Fabrics</a>, <a href="http://sewingperth.com.au/" target="_blank">Southlands Sewing Centre</a>, <a href="https://utopian-threads.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">Utopian Threads</a> and Spoonflower<br />
Machine Quilting by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/kwerkiquilting" target="_blank"> Kwerki Quilting</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "beyond the mountains"; font-size: 26.6667px;">xMichelle</span>thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-2504367335146862012016-09-26T00:50:00.000+08:002016-09-26T01:05:37.999+08:00{A Tilda Tea Party} A Dolly Basket, Mini Quilt and New Doll Clothes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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admit I was a <i>more than a little bit</i>
excited when Fiona from Tilda Australia and <a href="http://www.twogreenzebras.com/" target="_blank">Two Green Zebras</a> asked me if I’d like to make something to showcase the new Tilda range for a tour around Oz with the Tilda Trunk Show. Anything I like. Yes. Yes I would love to! Of course, a little
dolly basket would be deeevine! And oh boy, yes it was! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">The Tilda trunk show launched in early September in Adelaide and has been travelling around the country, continuing through to October, showcasing the new Tilda fabric lines Cabbage Rose and Memory Lane. Every day a new project and maker are featured on the @tilda_australia instagram page and there are stores across the country who will host Fiona and the Tilda Trunk Show. If you live close by one, be sure to pop in to see the beautiful projects in real life! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">AND...drum roll...today is my turn to share my creations! </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">I have used the Libby Dark Slate, Tilly Blue and Flowercloud Dark Slate from Memory Lane. I love that this range has some a gorgeous girly prints without being glaryingly pink. My favourite kind of fabric! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Just as every
little doll needs a bed, she definitely needs a quilt too. I made loads and
loads of HSTs, (visit Kerri at <a href="http://lovelylittlehandmades.blogspot.com.au/2011/06/mini-pinwheelsand-tutorial.html">Lovely LittleHandmades</a> for the know-how) and had enough Windmills (or pinwheels, I won’t judge you. I lived on a farm, once
upon a time, so windmills it is) for only <i>half</i>
the quilt. I’m a bit like that. I don’t really work out what I need before I
start. Things just snowball. So I snowballed some more mini windmill blocks
until I had 20 little tiny squares to sew into a mini quilt. Don’t they
look fantastic spinning around. Shame I didn’t think about actually matching
them up properly. Please say they look fine. They do? Thanks, it’s so kind of
you to say. You didn’t even notice? Great! You thought they were meant to be
totally random? You really are awesome, I hope you stick around. They were
actually. Meant to be random. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Because there was still some fabric left, and I have a little model, Holly, who absolutely needed a
matching outfit, the plan was to make her something new. There are literally a bazillion dresses for 18”dolls
online and I really wanted something easy to make but not the usual doll dress. So here is the Lil’ Red Cape and Dirndl.
And no. Before you even think it. Stop. This is Little Red Riding Hood-meets-Heidi.
There shall be no talk of Octoberfest and scantily clad bar maids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">Let me give
you a little history of the Dirndl. Dirndl translates to ‘girl’ or ‘dress’ in
Bavarian. A traditional dress of Austria,
South Tyrol and Bavaria, worn by servants and maids in the 18<sup>th</sup> century,
it consists of a blouse, bodice, full skirt and apron. The tying of the apron bow has
significance to marital status, a knot on the left indicates a woman is single,
a knot on the right that she is married, engaged or otherwise ‘taken’, </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;">a knot tied in the front centre means that she
is a virgin and a knot tied at the back indicates that the woman is widowed.<span style="color: #252525;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">You might
notice there is no apron here. I like practical. My 4yo can NOT tie a bow,
though she may try and I end up fighting with a screaming banshee about a
stupid bow that can’t tie itself. No kidding. No bow can tie itself. So…no apron. I
really didn’t </span><span style="line-height: 107%;">think every mother would want to spend hours tying and untying a doll’s
apron. Or placating a screaming banshee. Perhaps a pause is needed now to make sure we are clear, to differentiate that from playing dolls. I
may have done that recently and actually planning a dolls wardrobe really is quite
fun! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Now, because
you were really awesome about my little mini quilt’s mismatching random
windmill placement, the pattern and tutorial for the Dirndl Dress
to fit an 18” doll is <a href="http://thetoffeetree.blogspot.com/2016/09/an-18-doll-dress-pattern-tutorial-lil.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The blouse is part of a separate pattern, read down a
little further for the link. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxvM1wEcOc9Uo6o8-XwKq3TEEe0sXrWk-ONfqvA3tcmHtlB2hbeV1047SBS-0-KRXUtpmPhGyIT97Rt1m3zPpNrIoxCVK582vZkQ5paXui8Cr93r_a3CwLLC0Q0tf_aePa3jgNQDfGWg/s1600/IMG_3836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxvM1wEcOc9Uo6o8-XwKq3TEEe0sXrWk-ONfqvA3tcmHtlB2hbeV1047SBS-0-KRXUtpmPhGyIT97Rt1m3zPpNrIoxCVK582vZkQ5paXui8Cr93r_a3CwLLC0Q0tf_aePa3jgNQDfGWg/s640/IMG_3836.JPG" width="638" /></span></a></div>
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is modified from Jennie's at <a href="https://jenwrenne.wordpress.com/about/">Wren*Feathers</a>
- I have used her smocked blouse bodice and sleeves, cut the bodice longer so
the front is all one piece, extended the bodice width so I could gather it and then
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Next, there is a cape to fit an 18” tall doll. I have made a Lil’ Red Cape add-on for the barbie sized Lil’ Red Capelet Pattern I released
last year!</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> I </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">know, I know. I just said there was no apron because of the bows and the not wanting the tying of the bows all day and here I have gone and put a bow on the cape. What was a thinking?! Well this one can be sewn down and then poked through the loop, just like a button. OR the cape just goes over her head and the bow is just for looks. Simple!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Do you see the
hood on the cape? Like how I’m maximising all those little scrap pieces? I
unfortunately have a terrible habit of being unable to throw useable pieces of
fabric into the bin. The results it endless sewings of mini-things. Lucky I love that! But also growing piles of pieces of thou shalt not be wasteds, that I
get a little itchy need to colour coordinate. School holiday activity for the
kids? How long do you think that will last! I’m SO laughing OUT LOUD right now!
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you’d like to get the add-on for the 18”doll cape, it will be available in my Etsy shop very soon! You will still need to purchase the original pattern and tutorial for the Barbie sized Lil’ Red Capelet from either my Etsy store, or by purchasing One Thimble Issue 7. This will contain all you need to know about how to make the lil’ red cape. If you already have a copy of the original pattern, you can purchase the add-on for the 18”doll cape from my Etsy store. Got it!?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Let's not forget the baby doll whose bed this actually started out to be! She has a new reversible crossover pinny, with velcro straps. Easy as pie for little hands to do all by themselves. The pattern for this was one is guestimated and fits a small 12-13"doll well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Fabrics were
supplied by Tilda Fabrics Australian supplier, <a href="http://www.twogreenzebras.com/" target="_blank">Two Green Zebras</a> and all opinions are my own. </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">If you get a chance, definitely visit one of these fabric stores around Australia while the Tilda Trunk Show is touring. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Fabrics provided by<a href="http://www.twogreenzebras.com/" target="_blank"> Two Green Zebras/</a>Tilda Australia</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Doll basket pattern by MadeEveryday</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Lil’ Red
Cape and Dindl patterns by The Toffee Tree sized to fit an 18” tall doll, such as “Our Generation®” and “American
Girl®” Dolls**</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Blouse- modified Smocked Dress by </span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><a href="https://jenwrenne.wordpress.com/about/" style="font-size: 16px;" target="_blank">Wren*Feathers</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Pinwheel mini quilt block pattern <a href="http://lovelylittlehandmades.blogspot.com.au/2011/06/mini-pinwheelsand-tutorial.html" style="font-size: 16px;" target="_blank">Lovely LittleHandmades</a><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">**Australian Girls dolls are slightly taller at 20” or 50cm. I haven’t tried this cape on an
Australian Girl doll but the size is generous so it could fit nicely. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "beyond the mountains"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">xMichelle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-86135971442509268572016-06-03T20:20:00.002+08:002016-06-03T20:20:10.204+08:00{TECHNIQUE} Two ways to gather fabric<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOnDt5zwsNo" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh81fW9xNg-vs869lrgqoYQ-ljzWHIt97W-uTrlYL9trOBQ0b5Ibsvdqs21JxEApBkdtcCrKhkSottObfBrsNhmZqCoKzqRd4azyJB6yjBVH7wXXLtgVTFLlMT0zPFr06epQhA4DB4Wxc/s640/IMG_6800.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Gathering may or may not seem like a pretty simple technique to you - if you're new to sewing, if your style is a little more 'make it up as you go along' or if you simply haven't spent much time following patterns, it may not be something you are completely familiar with.<br />
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AND if you're an experienced sewer and you've spent a lot of time reading patterns, you might still learn a tip or trick in this short video I have made. I have included both the traditional/proper way to gather fabric and what I refer to as 'The Cheat's Method'.<br />
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Here you go! Just click play to watch. <br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fOnDt5zwsNo/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fOnDt5zwsNo?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Ultimately, gathering is a way to make a piece of fabric more ruffly and full, shortening it to fit another piece of fabric with a shorter length.<br />
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And where are we going to use all these gathered pieces of fabric? To make ruffles of course. Or to gather a skirt to sew it to a waistband or bodice, the top of a sleeve, at a hem to add a cuff. The options are endless!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6M_UlyH5tIBFBSSMNn-D1-BIEmajvrHgkeMWEmUBXMu4Xuk9etrgM-rcf4TEG86b1m_9zs97XtE6NyYsfInivaUE16tpZ60FLo3j822sKikqNNTvesambdIjxEo-PoRhb5yR-qi4oMN8/s1600/IMG_7589-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="639" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6M_UlyH5tIBFBSSMNn-D1-BIEmajvrHgkeMWEmUBXMu4Xuk9etrgM-rcf4TEG86b1m_9zs97XtE6NyYsfInivaUE16tpZ60FLo3j822sKikqNNTvesambdIjxEo-PoRhb5yR-qi4oMN8/s640/IMG_7589-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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How to choose which method to use? These are a few tips to keep in mind:<br />
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Benefits of " the Proper Way"- <br />
- gathers form more evenly<br />
- looks neater once sewn into a garment<br />
- the gathers wont fall out or shift while being handles before sewing<br />
- allows you to gather two or more layers of fabric together<br />
- better for heavier fabrics or two layers of fabric<br />
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Benefits of "the Cheat's Method" -<br />
- quick<br />
- fabric gathers as you sew<br />
- no snapping of threads<br />
- its the QUICKEST way<br />
- best for lightweight fabrics and single layers<br />
- did I mention, it's pretty quick!<br />
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Watch the video and then you can decide which is best for your project! I use both methods, depending on the final look I am wanting. For skirts and dresses with more fabric to gather, I tend to use "the Proper Way". I save "the Cheat's Method" for dolls clothes, like this barbie skirt I made <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/mini-mem-rose-skirt-tutorial/" target="_blank">here</a>, ruffles and to fit cuffs.<br />
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If you have an overlocker or serger, I'd highly recommend learning how to gather on that for super long ruffles like on the bottom of this dress.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBtD1oiSQDYrrckzzY5NpIq1_2WEt32qK886lQrez08C-CR3QLh9uo4p73Wya-9xukiAPUCqJQ-Zu-1nEJCd-P8leqORZhXJsBeQ_zPjPPSKrX-L8pnTcZbsyAWNvTEC2yLdxG1hhuBM/s1600/IMG_2443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBtD1oiSQDYrrckzzY5NpIq1_2WEt32qK886lQrez08C-CR3QLh9uo4p73Wya-9xukiAPUCqJQ-Zu-1nEJCd-P8leqORZhXJsBeQ_zPjPPSKrX-L8pnTcZbsyAWNvTEC2yLdxG1hhuBM/s640/IMG_2443.JPG" width="628" /></a><br />
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<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-87586189855262301072016-02-15T11:37:00.001+08:002016-02-15T14:11:21.224+08:00{ Project of the Week } Vintage Circus Sit Upon pattern available.<div>
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Blogging took a bit of a dive last year, but now I'm ready to jump back into it! There are so so many projects that I did and just never found (made) the time to share on the blog. Over the next few months, I'm aiming to share a project a week, so I'll start with a more recent(ish) one because it's just so flippin practical you should all have a set for the whole gang!<br />
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You know I am a huge fan of the One Thimble e-zine (and if you didn't, now you do!). It's an Aussie sewing digital magazine filled with brilliant patterns and advice. Last year I had TWO patterns published in OT. The first on was the Li'l Red Capelet for Barbie sized dolls, but you'll have to wait another week for that one (did I really not do that post on the blog??!!) </div>
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The second one was this absolutely fabulous (yes I'm biased, but it really is!) picnic circle AKA the vintage circus sit upon. Yeah yeah, I know, there are plenty of tutorials online for similar things. So why should you make this one? Because it will make you feel very clever! This pattern includes instructions to make a plain Jane circle, like you might find in the online sewing world, plus instructions to embellish it with an amazing applique (applique patterns also in OT issue 9) PLUS has pattern pieces and instructions to piece two different kinds of sprocket and starburst designs. I've also added a waterproof top layer to protect the applique on the top. You could leave this off all together if you weren't worried about your applique friends fraying a little. </div>
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Having two designs that were so similar was unintentional really. I constructed the pattern for the starburst with varied sized wedges first and then thought it would be easier to do all the wedges the same size. My pattern testers actually noticed they were different and so we decided to offer both patterns, ever so slightly different. I love that the starburst makes it look like our hero is popping out of the limelight! </div>
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The free motion embroidered appliques by Sarah at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/RicRacAndRetro" target="_blank">Ric Rac and Retro</a> really are something else. They add such a unique touch to just about any sewing project. There are two applique patterns for this issue plus a couple in some earlier issues of OT. When you combine these picnic circles with the a really funky appliqu, you'll be the envy of every other Mum at the park. Or on the school oval. And kids especially love that they have their own little mat to have their tea party on. </div>
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See how much fun the kids can have with a picnic mat that's like no other. These are great to use all year round, no more wrestling with a ginormous picnic blanket and kids can carry their own. Check out what my amazing testers have done with theirs.<br />
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You may have seen peeks of this on Facebook already and if you want to know what I'm doing on a more regular basis, follow along with me on Facebook or Instagram. </div>
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Photo credit to <a href="http://www.poeticlight.com.au/" target="_blank">Poetic Light Photography</a><br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RicRacandRetro" target="_blank">Vincent the Victor and Trapeze Eloise Applique by Ric Rac and Retro</a><br />
Purchase the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-9/?ref=32" target="_blank">One Thimble Issue 9 ezine here</a><br />
Buy the pattern for the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/268237337/picnic-circle-sit-upon-pattern" target="_blank">Vintage Circus Sit Upons here</a><br />
Pattern for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/248419922/lil-red-capelet-and-furry-friends-hoods" target="_blank">Li'l Red Capelet here</a></div>
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thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-31839043403891534162015-09-17T08:00:00.000+08:002015-09-17T14:20:41.841+08:00{Batman Fedora for Ben} One Thimble Gift Sewing <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIrB3B3oLarFcpA2U9hNeJ93eCl5HJGzSsYyzspfA9_v9bMbzoaml6IHL3MKclDG9TLNt8ciuFlH2gREQA9-LhlXi_VAmgOC8WxQPMEjVGG_kBHQAxuMDKbx1qSZBUiWipPZSRQr_jaY/s1600/batman+for+ben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIrB3B3oLarFcpA2U9hNeJ93eCl5HJGzSsYyzspfA9_v9bMbzoaml6IHL3MKclDG9TLNt8ciuFlH2gREQA9-LhlXi_VAmgOC8WxQPMEjVGG_kBHQAxuMDKbx1qSZBUiWipPZSRQr_jaY/s640/batman+for+ben.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our little friend Ben loves all things superhero and turned up at 3yo kindy dressed as Batman for Superhero week. I thought a Batman Fedora Hat would be the perfect birthday gift for him. Turns out, I was right. (OK, I may actually have checked with his Mum first!) He thought it was awesome, but like all 4 year olds, jumping on the trampoline is far more fun than posing for photos! </div>
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The <a href="http://www.fatredbirddesigns.com.au/" target="_blank">Fat Red Bird Designs</a> <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/fat-red-bird-fedora/?ref=32" target="_blank">Fedora pattern</a> can be found in One Thimble magazine Issue 8... which I've already gushed my love for, so I won't bore you with that again, other than saying if you are interested in sewing, even just a little bit, go buy yourself an issue. Find it <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-8/?ref=32" target="_blank">here</a> (affiliate link). I first spied Renee's fedoras not long after I'd made this other fedora <a href="http://thetoffeetree.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/gifts-ideas-for-4-year-old-boys.html" target="_blank">here</a>, but I love the super cool style of this one so much more, so was very excited to get my hands on this pattern when it was released. I knew it would be the perfect gift to sew up for our all of our little friends.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4uEsQJwZG0/Vfgfkx6r4rI/AAAAAAAAFng/nIiiMGjlwrU/s1600/IMG_8266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4uEsQJwZG0/Vfgfkx6r4rI/AAAAAAAAFng/nIiiMGjlwrU/s640/IMG_8266.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The pattern itself is fab! It's directions are simple and easy to follow, and leaves you with a hat that fits perfectly, in almost no time at all. It really is a very quick sew. I have to admit it was a teensy bit big for Ben, but I never measured his head size and a couple of mm in seam allowance error will translate to more in overall head circumference, so all operator error. There are even some great tips on the Fat Red Bird Designs blog for shaping your fedora.</div>
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The only thing I did differently, was to fuse my interfacing to the fabric before cutting it out. It's not an economical use of interfacing, but I just didn't want to cut more than I had to. I'm a last minute kinda sewer. The midnight sewist...so I'm always taking short cuts to save time, especially before birthdays, which is usually followed by after school deliveries! </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Isn't it just downright the coolest hat you'll see on a kid this summer. A perfect Christmas gift idea for boys or girls, and I almost forgot to mention, it'goes all the way up to ADULT sizes. Renee has thought </span><span style="text-align: start;">of everyone! </span> Get your hands on the<a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/fat-red-bird-fedora/?ref=32" target="_blank"> Fedora pattern </a>or One Thimble Issue 8 to make some for yourself. <span style="text-align: start;">I can see me making many more of these!</span></div>
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Follow along to check out all the fun sewing that's being done this week! </div>
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<strong>Monday, September 14th</strong><br />
Amy at Friends Stitched Together made <a href="http://friendsstitchedtogether.com/little-collector-backpack/" target="_blank">a Little Collector Backpack</a><br />
Jen at Ainslee Fox made a <a href="http://ainsleefox.com.au/a-coco-flower-crown-for-hannah/" target="_blank">Coco Flower Crown</a><br />
<strong>Tuesday, September 15th</strong><br />
Lauren at Molly and Mama made <a href="http://mollyandmama.com.au/2015/09/15/cactus-hexie-wall-art-pattern-review-from-hugs-are-fun/" target="_blank">some hexie wall art</a><br />
<strong>Wednesday, September 16th</strong><br />
Stephanie from Swoodson Says <a href="http://wp.me/p475pO-2lB" target="_blank">sewed a Jackalope Tee</a><br />
<strong>Thursday, September 17th</strong><br />
Alicia from Felt With Love Designs <a href="http://wp.me/p3JF8l-1ew" target="_blank">sewed a Little Collector Backpack</a><br />
Michelle at The Toffee Tree <a href="http://thetoffeetree.blogspot.com/2015/09/superhero-fedora-hat-gift-sewing.html" target="_blank">sewed up a fedora</a><br />
<b>F</b><strong>riday, September 18th</strong><br />
Rebecca at Hugs Are Fun used the <a href="http://wp.me/p3ePph-28T" target="_blank">Coco Flowers</a><br />
Rachael from Sew Today Clean Tomorrow <a href="http://sewtodaycleantomorrow.blogspot.com.au/2015/09/desert-fox-one-thimble-issue-8.html" target="_blank">sewed a Desert Fox softie</a>
thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-4423993769089551392015-07-20T22:34:00.002+08:002018-01-23T22:52:18.023+08:00{ PATTERN REVIEW } Skippy Dress + the 'Make for Me' List The Skippy Dress has been in my pattern (PDF) box for 10 months. I FINALLY got it made! Hurray!! Are you guilty of hoarding unmade patterns too??<br />
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This fabulous knit dress (my first knit dress, made for myself, ever) is the <a href="http://makeitperfect.com.au/products/skippy/" target="_blank">Skippy Dress</a> by <a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/" target="_blank">Make it Perfect</a>. I love the fit, it is absolutely perfect.<br />
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I haven't cropped my head off intentionally. Since discovering the brilliance of having a 50mm lens on my camera, I rarely take it off so in my haste to get a quick snap, my laziness meant I just couldn't zoom out. This was the cleanest wall in the house in the lightest room, and I just wasn't going to start cleaning other walls in bigger rooms (like near the dining table) for a picture.<br />
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The pattern itself is super easy to follow, would have taken me probably 2 hours from start to finish, if I hadn't been continuously interrupted (c'mon school tomorrow!). The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Toni even gives a great little guide on what stitches to use to sew the dress.<br />
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As I mentioned, the fit is perfect. I didn't cut a straight size though - the whole bodice piece I graded over 3 sizes, with an XS bust, graded to a Small at the waist and a Med at bottom of the bodice, based on my measurements on the sizing chart. I cut a straight Med waistband and skirt. I probably could have made the skirt as a small given the fabric is pretty stretchy, but my behind isn't small. I was a bit worried about the XS top being too small, as some shirts can be quite tight around my back and under the arms. I needed have been worried, the jersey has a lovely amount of stretch. As I didn't want the sleeves to be too tight, I cut them with an S width. I didn't alter the length of the bodice or skirt at all and the sleeve length is absolutely OK. No long arm problem here. I did actually measure the sleeves to make sure they would be long enough. Just to make sure.<br />
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The dress, I just can't stop gushing about how pleased I am with how it turned out, it is perfectly comfy as it is. I forsee quite a few more of these being added to my wardrobe in the near future. Now I know how easy it is to make, I'll whip a couple more up when I find myself some more fabric!!<br />
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The fabric is a merino wool jersey. I may have done a little dance and wandered around with a silly grin on my face when I found this at The Fabric Store in Melbourne (on the what-I-hope-will-be-annual-one-day girls weekend away) last year. That fabric store is a treasure trove. All sorts of different things. I knew that I was going to use this fabric for the Skippy Dress as I was buying it. I only wish I'd bought a bit more!<br />
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To recap -</h4>
An flawless pattern, great instructions and easy to sew<br />
Fit is great, follow the sizing chart to modify if needed.<br />
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Supplies - </h4>
<a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/products/skippy" target="_blank">Skippy Dress</a> pattern by <a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/" target="_blank">Make it Perfect</a><br />
Merino wool jersey in blue and stripe from <a href="http://www.thefabricstore.com.au/" target="_blank">The Fabric Store</a><br />
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I have a ridiculous amount of patterns that I haven't yet printed, taped, traced and sewn yet (no surprises there!) I'm all for the PDF patterns, usually I see it and I want it here and now. To make right now. Or tomorrow (or next week, but I'm not thinking that when I want it). I don't want to wait 5 days for it to arrive in the post. Even if Australia Post was to improve their tardy deliver of parcels East to West, I think I'd still be too impatient to wait for it to arrive. Who knows why, the patterns sit waiting for a while!<br />
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Here is my 'Make for Me' list. </h4>
I am always inspired by <a href="http://www.sanaeishida.com/" target="_blank">Sanae Ishida</a>'s blog and her handmade wardrobe, to make more of my own clothes. Loved the Me Made May challenge- my instagram feed was crazy with all that handmade greatness. I'm planning to add to mine so maybe I've got more than a half dozen things next year!<br />
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These patterns sit in a lonely PDF file that are dying to be bought to life. I'll make it my mission to finish then in the next 12 months! What about one pattern a month. That's do-able. In no particular order we have:<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.1puddlelane.com.au/store/p13/Miss_Audrey_Dress_-_PDF_Pattern.html" target="_blank">Miss Audrey Dress (1 Puddle Lane)</a> - actually this one will be first. </li>
<li>Marigold Peplum Top/Dress (Blank Slate) (muslin done, but not perfect)</li>
<li>Make it Perfect Essential Shorts (done, too small, relates to the not small butt mentioned above)</li>
<li>Sugar Pop Top (Sew Caroline Sewing Patterns)</li>
<li>City Girl Frock/Top (See Kate Sew)</li>
<li>Day Tripper Top (Shwin Designs)</li>
<li>Parisian Top (Go To Patterns)</li>
<li>Lotta Skirt (Compagnie M)</li>
<li>Briar Rose Top/Sweater (Megan Neilsen)</li>
<li>More Skippy Dresses and Tops!</li>
</ul>
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And a few that I want to make but haven't purchased...yet!</div>
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<li>Mercer Tunic (Whitney Deal)</li>
<li>Bombshell Swimsuit (Closet Case Files) -I even bought fabric in Bali back in March for this</li>
<li>Ginger Jeans (Closet Case Files)</li>
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I've realised that I really haven't blogged about many of the clothes I've made for myself. It's a bit tricky getting photos of one's self. I am working on it. Seven year olds can prove quite helpful.</div>
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These are a few other patterns that I have managed to finish:</div>
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<li>Make it Perfect (MIP) Honey Top (another one)</li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Wiksten</span> Tank </li>
<li>Poppy Dress (MIP ) (here)</li>
<li>Waterfall Blouse (MIP)</li>
<li>Washi Dress (Made by Rae)</li>
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Given that the most recent of these purchases was 2 months ago, I think I'm doing OK. No need to join sewing patterns-anonymous just yet, but I really should get cracking through my list. </div>
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I have purposefully omitted children's patterns from this list as that would really make me seem like I have a problem with collecting sewing patterns. </div>
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Any suggestions of what I should add to my 'Make for Me' list? Fire away!</div>
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Me and two of my crazy smalls x</div>
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<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-41944736016782016562015-07-08T23:24:00.001+08:002015-07-08T23:24:19.392+08:00{Guest Blogging at One Thimble} Mini Mem-Rose Skirt TutorialToday I've guest posted at <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble</a>. If you are feeling inspired to do a little bit of sewing for some little girls (or boys) who are home on school holidays, there is a tutorial for a mini Mem-Rose barbie doll skirt.<div>
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Head over to the<a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/blog" target="_blank"> One Thimble blog</a> to see my post <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/mini-mem-rose-skirt-tutorial/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Not sure what One Thimble is? It's a fantastic Aussie digital magazine for sewing enthusiasts. Each issue is jam-packed with PDF sewing patterns, general interest sewing articles, tips and techniques for home sewists and for those running handmade businesses. </div>
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Last month I contributed the pattern for the Barbie Capelet - you can buy it <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/lil-red-capelet-furry-friends-hoods/" target="_blank">here as a single PDF</a> or in <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-7/" target="_blank">Issue 7 here</a>. </div>
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There is currently a special thankyou for subscribers running for the One Thimble e-zine- a very neat little luggage tag sewing kit, when you purchase a subscription that covers Issue 8. </div>
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thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-8084391480077382032015-06-07T15:54:00.000+08:002015-06-08T20:28:36.401+08:00A Comedy of Errors amongst a {Pattern Review} for the Sunny Glasses Case and A GiveawayDo you ever have those sewing days, where it's all, well, a comedy of errors?<br />
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When it happens to me, I can unequivocally say, I'm tired. I'm certain I was making these at about 11 o'clock at night. Two nights in a row. I thought I really had to share this, as one of my friends seems to think I don't make silly mistakes. Really, I do. Sometimes, too many to admit. Like here. I'm going to share this with you anyway.<br />
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I discovered this pattern thanks to Sarah at <a href="http://www.huntingforladybugs.com.au/" target="_blank">Hunting For Ladybugs </a>(wanna learn to sew? check out her website and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/huntingforladybugs" target="_blank">FB pages</a>. You definitely should, she's super lovely) when she posted the link to a tutorial on her Facebook page. I had literally just purchased a new glasses case, which is just the cutest, from another handmade business (<a href="http://www.facebook.com/meandleighcreations" target="_blank">Me and Leigh Creations</a>), so well, I didn't really need this, but then really I did, because I have two pairs of glasses - specs and sunnies. Of course I needed two cases.<br />
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Enter Sunny Glasses Case tutorial by Thread Riding Hood. The second best bit is it's a free pattern and tutorial. The best bit, is it's pretty flippin' easy! If you pay attention to what you are doing.<br />
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I'll walk you through my COMEDY OF ERRORS night.<br />
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I fussy cut this deer fabric, which I've had for quite some time. Hoarding it, in fact, to use for something for myself. A bag? A scarf? I wasn't quite sure what. Anyhow, I positioned the pattern quite precisely so that the deer would be around the right way when the case was folded. Only it WASN'T. I'd cut it upside down. Error #1.<br />
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That's OK. Liveable. I had one yard of this, I could afford another piece, but man, this was a little wasteful of this beautiful fabric. I cut that new bit anyway and I'd use this bit for the
lining. On the upside, the deer would be up the right way, on the
inside. (Does this cancel errors out?)<br />
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Then I decided to make one of these for one of my friends, for her birthday. She has sunnies. It's useful. And cute. So I cut out another (after much deliberation on both inner and outer fabrics) and all the pieces of fusible fleece.<br />
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Are you still with me?<br />
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I took all these pieces to the ironing board and ironed them to the outer fabrics. Actually, I didn't. I ironed them to the lining fabrics. Doh. Error #2. Fortunately I'm a little slap dash when it comes to making sure the fusible fleece has stuck and I could pull it off (mostly easily) and re-iron it down to the outer fabric.<br />
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Which is where I realise Error #3. Those deer. I've cut the outer piece THE WRONG SIZE. There are two pattern pieces here. One inner and one outer. I've cut TWO INNERS. Numskull. Those deer. I'm not willing to sacrifice more. I check online to see if Cristy at <a href="http://www.muddyruffles.com.au/" target="_blank">Muddy Ruffles Fabric Addiction </a>(the shop I bought it from) has more. Nope. It's probably sold out everywhere. If I cut another one, I risk not having enough for the scarf. I'll just make it and see how it turns out.<br />
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I make the one for my friend first and I decide to go with the velcro closure option. It sews together a breeze. This pattern is excellent. Yes, it's a great pattern. Just follow the instructions. And then I go to fold it up, sit those velcro pieces together and ...oh, man...what have I done here? I've sewed the top velcro to the outer piece, not the lining, so the velcro wont go together. Error #4. <strike>I'm not sure what I did. </strike>Clearly, I didn't follow the instructions. What else am I gonna balls up? Do I unpick this and see how I go, or do I just make another one?<br />
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I'll unpick. I saw this really cool thing on how to use your unpicker properly. <strike>When I find the link to the right blog I'll post it here.</strike> Check this nifty you tube video out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QzJo16Zre8" target="_blank">here</a>. Turns out I've been using my unpicker upside down. And when you use it right way up (with the little ball on the bottom, not the top), it's a breeze to slide through the fabric and cut the stitches. Neat, huh! So that's what I did. Only, I obviously didn't do it quite right, because I ripped the outer fabric. My unpicker is pretty sharp, so not sure what my error was. Maybe it was just much too thick to unpick that way. Error #5. Now I just carefully unpicked each and every stitch.<br />
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But now, I have a hole, that isn't going to be under the velcro. I'm going to have to patch it. I go to bed. I'll deal with it tomorrow. <br />
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Night 2.<br />
Right. I've just unpicked this carefully around the edge, now to cut a strip to go over the edge and topstitch it back together. Easy. It actually wasn't that easy, but that's what I did and it would have taken me around 30minutes. And when I'd finished, I decided it looked pretty average, including the awfully wonky stitching on the inside of the case's front flap. I'm calling that Error #6.<br />
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And then, I decided to just make another one for my friend. Which came together perfectly, in about 15 minutes. Actually, it is slightly asymmetrical, because I didn't draw the line across the back like I should have (Error #7), but it's barely noticeable (sorry this picture is a little fuzzy!)<br />
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I went back to finish off my deer glasses case. The only thing I really modified was to make the deer glasses case with with double sided fusible buckram. Why? Because I had some. The deer case is no where near as rigid as the other two, which I made with the plastic canvas (which is available near the tapestry supplies, in Spotlight), but I'm OK with a softer glasses case, it's just a little bit squishier. Oh, I lie. I also did the side seams on this one slightly differently - so the final seam is on the inside, rather than the outside of the case. Just wanted to try it. Both ways work fine. <br />
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I sewed the seams a tiny bit smaller, but not much and my every day specs fit inside perfectly. My sunglasses only just fit, as the arms seem to have a huge curve in them. As a result, they poke out of every glasses case I own (and thus don't go into one very often). Even my new one from Me and Leigh is too narrow for the sunnies. They don't sit down inside the case very well and end up sticking out the top too much (I didn't take photos of that to share what I mean, you'll just have to believe me).<br />
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Which is when I realised that my friend's glasses probably wouldn't fit in this case. She has bigger bug-eye style glasses, so I think they'll be too tall to fit. Luckily, they did fit. Phew! I'm not sure I could have handled it!<br />
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Sew, now I have a spare one! Imperfectly made with lots of love. <strike>If you would like this one below, just let me know with a comment below or on my FB page and I'll post it out to you (provided you live within Australia).</strike> GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED.<br />
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<strong>THE REVIEW</strong><br />
So, in defence of the pattern, if I were to review it properly, I'd say it is overall an excellent pattern and tutorial. The errors made here are purely mine. <br />
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Instructions - clear and concise<br />
Ease of construction - super easy <br />
Does it make what is says it makes - yes.<br />
Does it look like the picture - yes.<br />
Would you make it again - definitely yes!. <br />
Variations - fusible buckram instead of plastic canvas. Would stiff interfacing work - I'd say probably not, it wouldn't hold the shape very well. Final side seams are finished on the inside of the case, rather than 'French seam' to the outside.<br />
Next time - I meant to put a magnetic clasp on my deers case (Error #8, but we'll glaze over that), next one I make will have one! <br />
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SUPPLIES<br />
<a href="http://www.threadridinghood.com/wordpress/made-by-me-monday-sunny-glasses-case-tutorial-free-printable-pattern/" target="_blank">Sunny Glasses Case pattern and tutorial</a> by Thread Riding Hood<br />
Deer fabric -Dreamlandia Irradiated, <a href="http://www.liveartgalleryfabrics.com/utopia.html" target="_blank">Utopia by Frances Newcombe, Art Gallery Fabrics</a> from <a href="http://www.muddyruffles.com.au/" target="_blank">Muddy Ruffles</a><br />
Bloom fabrics - Spotlight<br />
Velcro<br />
Fusible Fleece- scraps of Pellon 630 and 640. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QzJo16Zre8" target="_blank">here</a><br />
How to use a seam ripper/quick unpick properly <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QzJo16Zre8" target="_blank">here</a>.thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-34333194496871014002015-05-01T22:28:00.003+08:002015-05-15T07:41:26.764+08:00{ONE THIMBLE ISSUE 7} Li'l Red Capelet and The Amenity Top<br />
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I was thrilled to bits to be included in <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble </a>Issue 7 blog tour for the ezine which is released TODAY! I can tell you<b> it is</b> an awesome, jam packed issue with absolutely amazing patterns, tips and tricks. I have contributed the Li'l Red Capelet and Furry Friends Hoods pattern to the issue and was also lucky enough to be invited to choose a pattern to make and share with you. I chose the Amenity ladies top by <a href="http://www.addiek.com/" target="_blank">Addie K</a>, because most of my wardrobe consists of singlets and it's kinda chilly for no sleeves in Perth right now.<br />
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The Amenity Top was so super quick to sew up. The longest part was, as always, trimming and taping those pattern pieces together. Once that was done (which honestly wasn't that long), the cutting and sewing this took me about 30 minute, absolute tops.<br />
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I love the drape of this jersey knit stretchy fabric with this style of top. Hides things you
mightn't like highlighted. Perfect if you've got larger arms, a soft
tummy. I decided to leave the neck band off this one. I'm not so keen on
the higher 'turtle neck', so I just finished the neck line with a strip
of the jersey stretch fabric (there are loads of <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2014/02/knit-necklines-part-i-adding-a-neckband-to-a-tee/" target="_blank">tutorials</a> out there to see how to do this). It was finished off with a double needle topstitch, which Addie suggests to use in the pattern.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM_g5Q2nS_Q/VVNDQpPwrsI/AAAAAAAAFRA/k5wH-SRoAx0/s1600/IMG_5861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM_g5Q2nS_Q/VVNDQpPwrsI/AAAAAAAAFRA/k5wH-SRoAx0/s640/IMG_5861.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love the colour of this knit, which I had some in a box that I had bought eons ago to make a shirt from (one of those boxes that hides things in the cupboard for years and years). I didn't quite have enough for the band around the bottom, but I did have some of a similar fabric, which was left over from my Year 11 ball dress. Now I just did the sum's on that and I'm not saying how long ago that was, because it sounds RIDICULOUS! But the match was pretty close, a slightly different texture which I figured was OK since the colour wasn't an exact match. <br />
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I did shorten the top by an inch, as I am a bit of a shorty. I also lengthened the arms by about 2 inches, as I have long arms which I inherited from my Grandma (Hi GG!). The pattern has suggestions for fabrics and I love that it includes a little diagram to make sure there is enough stretch in the fabric. When you measure yourself up for this pattern, don't get
confused by the sizing charts - one gives the actual garment size
measurements and if you look at the sweater on me, you'll see that the
bust measurement for the garment is going to be huge, because of those
batwing arms. It'll be fine. It's a fantastic forgiving pattern for big
busts, which I don't have. I know I'm going to get plenty of wear out of this top this winter.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p3xW6Inf_ZM/VVSv46M3tSI/AAAAAAAAFSw/OLlzeDwMuuA/s1600/11262236_892686407457983_5542253564050332089_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p3xW6Inf_ZM/VVSv46M3tSI/AAAAAAAAFSw/OLlzeDwMuuA/s400/11262236_892686407457983_5542253564050332089_n.jpg" width="282" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CmYM_LEwcU/VVSv3qippFI/AAAAAAAAFSo/5I-mIgJ1T3U/s1600/amenity%2Btop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CmYM_LEwcU/VVSv3qippFI/AAAAAAAAFSo/5I-mIgJ1T3U/s400/amenity%2Btop.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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And, now the bit I know you've all been waiting for! The Li'l Red Capelet pattern! I have made this capelet a million times, you may remember I entered it into the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble </a>Fat Quarter competition last year AND I thought, maybe you folks would love to make you own!...so the pattern is now for sale at <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble</a>! This issue of One Thimble is inspired by the theme 'Lost in a Good Book' and Little Red Riding Hood fits right in! <br />
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The pattern includes detailed instructions with plenty of options - for a hooded capelet or no hood, for a variety of furry friend's ears - a wolf, a bunny or puppy, a cat or a bear! Choose your combination for your favourite fairytale. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cm2D3YUzN4k/VUOL2-Gp6iI/AAAAAAAAFPw/CWcbhAFBvQw/s1600/IMG_5118-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cm2D3YUzN4k/VUOL2-Gp6iI/AAAAAAAAFPw/CWcbhAFBvQw/s1600/IMG_5118-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I admit, I had a slightly larger amount of fun taking these photos, that
I perhaps should! Hey Barbs, just hold on to this branch. Take these
flowers. Here are a few ideas for you, mix and match as you will, to
get lost in a storybook playtime! If you missed <a href="http://mollyandmama.com.au/" target="_blank">Molly and Mama</a>'s blog post on Wednesday, check it out <a href="http://mollyandmama.com.au/2015/05/13/the-toffee-tree-pattern-review-for-one-thimble-issue-7/" target="_blank">here </a>for her amazing dolly clothes. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JjAx2dqOyo/VUOJ-IzIH9I/AAAAAAAAFNM/SK9ATxADW9w/s1600/IMG_5206-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JjAx2dqOyo/VUOJ-IzIH9I/AAAAAAAAFNM/SK9ATxADW9w/s1600/IMG_5206-002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucPYsalFHAseVe1zEqLVap3K_FEnUkD_gG3s7xEHesmbJM7G7ta9mnafxvIoBjePrsEWUtHAqL8dc5x_pR5PpQX0MgCuC1e0fJqPrJxSGGhMQW6jh39Xvk4ulHBBVGgTNM4o-O19Db6U/s1600/IMG_5072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucPYsalFHAseVe1zEqLVap3K_FEnUkD_gG3s7xEHesmbJM7G7ta9mnafxvIoBjePrsEWUtHAqL8dc5x_pR5PpQX0MgCuC1e0fJqPrJxSGGhMQW6jh39Xvk4ulHBBVGgTNM4o-O19Db6U/s1600/IMG_5072.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Many million thanks to my pattern testers, Jessica, Helen, Sarah and Alison. I truly needed your attention and advice to make this pattern as sweet and easy as it is! x<br />
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The Li'l Red Capelet pattern is available on the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble website</a> to purchase, either <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/lil-red-capelet-furry-friends-hoods/" target="_blank">on it's own</a> or <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-7/" target="_blank">in the ezine</a>
with a whole bunch of other fabulous patterns. If you
(or your beloved small girl) have one of those skinny 11.5" dolls, this
is the perfect playful pattern for you to make for her!<br />
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Still wondering what a One Thimble ezine is? It's a brilliant digital magazine filled with patterns, sewing techniques and other articles relevant to the sewing industry, to inspire you to get sewing! When you do make something, be sure to share it on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/onethimblesewingenthusiasts/" target="_blank">One Thimble Sewing Enthusiasts page</a> on Facebook. Here's a peek at <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-7/" target="_blank">Issue 7 </a>and the 10 fun patterns included. There is something for everybody in
this issue! <br />
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<a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-7/" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.onethimble.com.au/product/one-thimble-issue-7/" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eUfi4LqIq90/VVSv5qQC1mI/AAAAAAAAFS4/2WVqJPVC_n4/s640/11255022_892757904117500_1116636128035498986_n.jpg" width="617" /></a></div>
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Follow these blogs for more reviews on the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble</a> patterns:</div>
<ul>
<li>Wednesday 13th May 2015 - <a href="http://www.mollyandmama.com.au/" target="_blank">Molly and Mama</a> and <a href="http://www.pensebrox.com/" target="_blank">pen, seb & rox</a> and <a href="http://www.from-a-box.com/" target="_blank">From a Box</a></li>
<li>Thursday 14th May 2015 - <a href="http://handmadeboy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Handmade Boy</a></li>
<li>Friday 15th May 2015 - <a href="http://www.thetoffeetree.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">The Toffee Tree</a> and <a href="http://www.horrisanddeedle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Horris and Deedle</a></li>
<li>Saturday 16th may 2015 - <a href="http://sewvolution.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Sewvolution</a> and <a href="http://www.fabuloushomesewn.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">FABulous Home Sewn</a></li>
<li>Sunday 17th May 2015 - <a href="http://sewtodaycleantomorrow.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Sew Today, Clean Tomorrow</a> and <a href="http://sproutingjj.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Sprouting JubeJube</a></li>
<li>Monday 18th May 2015 - <a href="http://sewhappilyeverafter.com/" target="_blank">Sew Happily Ever After</a> and <a href="http://biggstitches.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Big Stitches, little stitches</a> and <a href="http://made-by-sara.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Made By Sara</a></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.5;">Tuesday 19th May 2015 - </span><a href="http://phatquartersblog.blogspot.com/" style="line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Phat Quarters Blog</a><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> and </span><a href="http://hibbadoray.blogspot.com.au/" style="line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Hibbadoray</a></li>
<li>Wednesday 20th May 2015 - <a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/" target="_blank">Mabey She Made It</a> and <a href="http://www.bluewrenhandmade.com.au/" target="_blank">Blue Wren Handmade</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
</ul>
thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-50477649318656815522015-02-21T21:12:00.000+08:002015-02-21T21:13:37.664+08:00My Belated 'Back-To-School' sewing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In my haste to get the kids back to school, I forgot about sharing quite a few things with you all So if you need inspiration come NEXT year's back to school, here it is!!</div>
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1. Art Smock, size 7</div>
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2. Pencil Case</div>
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3. Kindy Cushion</div>
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4. New Pre-primary cushion cover</div>
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<i><u>Art Smock</u></i></div>
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I saw <a href="https://www.facebook.com/squirrelandfink" target="_blank">Squirrel and Fink</a>'s beautiful art smock on Facebook, which reminded me that Keegan needed an art smock this year. He chose these fabric (with only the smallest amount of guidance, he really didn't actually care what it was made from). The check is a cotton drill, a little thicker than the cotton sleeves. I did think about putting clear vinyl on the front, but honestly couldn't be bothered!<br />
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I used a pattern from a Japanese Pattern Book that had raglan sleeves and a button front that I just turned back to front. I scalloped the front pattern piece to give a 'tulip-like' closure to the now back. Because the sleeves weren't symmetrical front and back, they are a little odd, and really should have cut the 'back now front' piece with the front sleeve slopes. But for an art smock it doesn't really matter. I used a wide bias binding around the neckline then threaded it with elastic. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMcUT9Q3q08/VOh_WO8I7-I/AAAAAAAAFEI/4TS_jch4cy8/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMcUT9Q3q08/VOh_WO8I7-I/AAAAAAAAFEI/4TS_jch4cy8/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" height="582" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><u>A personalised pencil case for Keegan</u></i> Quite some time ago, I bought some fabric from a local quilting fabric store, purely because I spied Keegan's name in it. Never did anything with it, but now I have! A tiny piece, cut right out of the middle! He came home from school yesterday and informed me that Kayla and Dylan would both like a pencil case because their names are on the material too. It's quite a small pencil case, since that was the size specified on the booklist. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SaQeDWRktXQ/VOh5AhASOgI/AAAAAAAAFDA/l6EsD-OGCLk/s1600/IMG_3564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SaQeDWRktXQ/VOh5AhASOgI/AAAAAAAAFDA/l6EsD-OGCLk/s1600/IMG_3564.JPG" height="582" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love this fabric. I knew the boys would too, given their love affair with How To Train Your Dragon movies. It's from an Alexander Henry line called <a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0346399/monkeys-bizness-the-dragons-oatmeal" target="_blank">Monkey's Bizness The Dragons</a>. There were vikings too, which I looked lovingly at. No idea what I will do with them, but something will present itself eventually!! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LiPsebhURS4/VOh5BjQ6KmI/AAAAAAAAFDI/tRgnXMUu4vA/s1600/IMG_3566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LiPsebhURS4/VOh5BjQ6KmI/AAAAAAAAFDI/tRgnXMUu4vA/s1600/IMG_3566.JPG" height="582" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keegan asked for the red dragon to be on his pencil case and was even more pleased when he realised there was almost "three whole dragons on the front AND a black dragon on the back"! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgms-DAa0pI/VOh5CmAod7I/AAAAAAAAFDQ/6hlJwVyjSJ4/s1600/IMG_3570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgms-DAa0pI/VOh5CmAod7I/AAAAAAAAFDQ/6hlJwVyjSJ4/s1600/IMG_3570.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you want to make your own pencil case, you can buy a kit from <a href="http://huntingforladybugs.com.au/product/zipper-pouch-kit/" target="_blank">Hunting for Ladybugs</a> that actually gives you a the instructions and everything you will need...the fabric, zipper, interfacing AND cotton that will be delivered to your door. No need to visit Spotlight to get a matching zip or thread. But if you have a healthy fabric supply already, there is a tutorial on the Make It Perfect blog which I used to make zippered pouches for our teachers last year ...which I just realised I STILL haven't blogged about either!! On the 'dreamy topics to blog about' list. <br />
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<i><u>The Kindy Cushion</u></i><br />
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I can't take the credit for making this cushion though. If you follow along with me on Instagram (@chellby18) you may remember Keegan wanted to do a bit of sewing. He has never used the sewing machine before, but watched me plenty of times and had lots of practise putting the presser foot up and down for me. He wanted to make a cushion for Anya. (Not my idea) So he chose the fabric, cut this out (I drew lines) then pinned and sewed this ALL BY HIMSELF! I did help tell him when to start, stop, backstitch etc, but he controlled the whole lot. [Proud Mum moment!!]<br />
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He put his old kindy cushion inside it, for his little sis.<br />
And then we realised it probably did need a button. Mum's maths weren't so great on calculating the overlap. So I did the buttonhole and sewed the button on. He'd had enough by this stage. There was no seam finishing to the inside either, so hopefully it holds up at kindy OK this year. <br />
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<i><u>Pre-Primary Cushion Cover</u></i><br />
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All year last year, I promised this kid I'd make him a motorbike cushion cover for his kindy cushion. Every school holidays came and went with no cushion cover making. AND THEN we discovered Nathan's name in the fabulous name fabric too, so that prompted out little stitchup of this cushion cover. We discovered that he didn't actually need a cushion for pre-primary, so it now takes pride of place next to his pillow every night. <br />
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Did you have a favourite back to school sew this year?<br />
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Happy Sunday,<br />
Michelle <br />
<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-18661806023583226002015-02-09T17:00:00.002+08:002015-02-09T17:04:07.309+08:00{Kids Clothes Week} Unicorn Moku Skort<br />
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A little unicorn love for you today. This fabric is from Heather Ross's Far Far Away collection, purchased from <a href="http://muddyruffles.com.au/category_198/-Far-Far-Away--Heather-Ross--SALE.htm" target="_blank">Muddy Ruffles Fabric Addiction</a> (and these fabrics just happen to be on sale right now!). I made Anya a Fawn Lily Tunic with the blue colourway <strike>here</strike> which I now realised I still haven't blogged! She wore both skirt and tunic together together today, because they matched! <br />
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I did get sewing <i>most</i> days for Kids Clothes Week. I had intermission mid week to finish a bag off (which I'll share tomorrow), but resumed for the rest of the week. I didn't quite get an hour every day, but close to it.<br />
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This is Anya's favourite new skirt/shorts=skort! This awesome pattern is by <a href="http://www.tadahpatterns.com.au/" target="_blank">Tadah Patterns </a>(formerly Fresh Patterns) and is a super duper quick sew. It can be found in the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble</a> magazine (Issue 5) or bought separately <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/shop.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I would highly recommend it as an easy sewing pattern, suitable for beginners. But if you're not a beginner, don't let that stop you! There is nothing like quick satisfaction, with a winner result for girls who love to twirl! <br />
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I didn't read the instructions while I was sewing it up, so the elastic goes all the way around , instead of just through the back waistband. Doesn't affect the function of the skirt, but I would do it properly next time! <br />
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<u><i>SUPPLIES</i></u><br />
Pattern - Moku Skort, by <a href="http://www.tadahpatterns.com.au/" target="_blank">Tadah Patterns</a><br />
Fabric - <a href="http://muddyruffles.com.au/category_198/-Far-Far-Away--Heather-Ross--SALE.htm" target="_blank">Far Far Away Unicorn Green</a> from <a href="http://muddyruffles.com.au/category_72/-Fabrics-Trims-.htm" target="_blank">Muddy Ruffles</a><br />
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Kids Clothes Week is back and this time I am determined to
finish the whole week!! Just one hour of sewing each day, for kids.
Then next week I'll do things for me [wink].<br />
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I am so so pleased with how this Bee-utiful Hemp racer back singlet turned out. Not just with my sewing skills but with my newly found shit hot pattern making skill!<br />
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This is what happens when:<br />
A. the power is out and you can't sew your ALREADY cut to sew pile, which you have done in your attempt to actually succeed at Kids Clothes Week<br />
B. there is a whole box full of clothing that you just can't bear to throw away, even things Mr Toffee Tree has discarded them from his wardrobe several years earlier (or that you have purchased from the salvos for upcycling)<br />
C. you don't have a pattern and can't just download another one because of problem A.<br />
D. you have enough determination to get ONE THING FINISHED.<br />
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Had the power been on, I perhaps would have downloaded the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/154339517/doli-tank-pdf-sewing-pattern-racer-back?ref=shop_home_active_11" target="_blank">Doli Tank</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/LouBeeClothing?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Lou Bee Clothing</a>. Or maybe the Shandiin Tank. That's pretty cute too. Anya pulled this bee fabric out a few days ago and asked me for a bee top. She is now completely fussy and doesn't always want to wear what I make her.<br />
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<b>How did I do it? </b><br />
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I took the <a href="http://www.willowandcopatterns.com/products/fawn-lily-tunic-dress" target="_blank">Fawn Lily Tunic</a> pattern pieces in a size 3 and pattern hacked it, flipped it & made it mine. I like the hemline on this pattern and the fit around the chest is pretty good for Anya, so I knew I wouldn't have to alter too much. I laid the front pattern pieces together, traced around them and voila, a front singlet piece. Truth be told. It wasn't exactly voila. I did what I have never done before and made a muslin! I didn't want to waste that precious hemp shirt!! <br />
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I did the same for the back piece, sketched out my own racer back, making sure the top of the straps on each front and back piece was the same width, and that the arm to hem length was the same on front and back. I cut and pinned up the muslin. I did need to do a little bit of armhole and neckline tweaking (a few
times x a little bit), but I'm happy with what I ended up with. <br />
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By this time (and yes, I'd used up my <i>one hour</i> for the day) the power was back on, kids were home from school and while I was supposed to be cooking dinner, I sewed up the muslin. There was only unpicking of the side seams once before finally hacking up the back panel of Daddy's hemp shirt to put the 'real one' together.<br />
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One of the things that didn't appeal so much to me about the Doli tank pattern, and perhaps why I hadn't bought it before, was the armholes look enormous and a bit gapey. So I tried really hard not to make them huge on this top. They are probably still a bit big, but that's the trade off when sewing with a woven fabric - you still need to be able to put it on and take it off comfortably.<br />
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I love the curves to the bottom of the hem. The original hemp shirt had a curved hem, which I kept when I cut the fabric. I ended up folding this under because the whole top was a bit long. I could have made it shorter again, but it really is fine. I like kick out at the bottom of the A-line bodice. It's cute, it sits and swings nicely when Anya runs around! There is a tiny bit of high-low hem happening too. <br />
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And I'm not totally sure what I did with the racer style
back - it's not quite symmetrical. I suspect my cutting wasn't quite perfect *shock*, rather than the sewing. I noticed it before I stitched the
bias trim on it and thought maybe it would even up after it was sewn on.
Didn't. I'll probably cringe every time I look at Anya wearing it now.<br />
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She's pretty smitten with it at least!<br />
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Have you got a stash of old things to magically turn into other things? Want to join me for Kids Clothes Week? Click on the link to the right and go sign up to see what everyone else it making!<br />
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If you have made something for Kids Clothes Week this week, be sure to let me know and leave a link to your blog in the comments!<br />
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x Michelle<br />
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<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-91067966980182028822014-12-16T22:39:00.000+08:002014-12-16T22:39:24.696+08:00Baby Bonnets and To Lace, or Not To Lace? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes, getting a special request can lead to something better.<br />
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Like a simple request for a plain white bonnet. I had thrown the idea
around before about doing baptism or christening bonnets, and like just
about everything else on my 'dreamy ideas to sew' list...haven't got
around to it. Yet. Now, I have. I have no idea whether the delightful
Mum who ordered this bonnet wanted it for a special occasion, like a
bapstism, but I offered to make the brim smaller than what usually goes
onto these bonnets. She 'yes please'd that idea and this is what I came
up with
for her 12 month old, who is going to South Africa to meet her
grandparents. <br />
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<br />And you know what? I do kinda like it
like that. For a smaller bub anyway. I ticked the winner box. For now you'll have to settle for a picture of it on Dolly's head (if you think Dolly should have a name other than Dolly, leave me a comment below!).<br />
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Since there is ALWAYS a pattern in things happening, here's what happened next... My mother-in-law asked me to make a bonnet for a little new baby, for a friend of hers. [There must be some thanks to her for this whole bonnet thing, as she gave me the original, vintage 1970s that her girls wore, for Miss A to use when she was smaller.] Fabric? I could choose, whatever took my fancy. <br />
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I did a bit of cleaning up, tidying last week. In the sewing studio, silly! As if I'd spend precious time cleaning my house! And I came across this long forgotten Cuddlepot and Snugglepie May Gibbs fabric. Perfect for a little baby girl.<br />
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I got straight to work, downsized the pattern, took a bit more off the brim and this incy wincy tiny sized sun bonnet is now on it's way to an tiny sized baby girl. Lets hope it's small enough!!<br />
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The best thing about these bonnets is that you only need a fat quater for each side. If you are really clever then you can squeeze it out of a bit less. I only had a smidge of this gumnut baby print and so the little gumnut babies at the back aren't perfectly centred.In fact, they barely made it onto the fabric. You know, when you've made your mind up about something, you do everything possible to make it happen. This was one of those times. I just wanted to use those gumnut babies!! I folded, turned, ironed, re-folded, turned again, checked, trimmed bits and I think it's just right! And that ribbon trim is supposed to be a bit crinkly ;)<br />
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Are you wondering what this has to do with lace? Well...that's the NEXT step. I just haven't stepped it. </div>
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I'm thinking...should I add lace to my bonnets? This lace I found while hunting in fabric stores in Melbourne is devine. It actually came from a clothing outlet store (don't remember the name) on Brunswick St in Melbourne. I do remember the bar (where we had lunch, don't get too excited) down the road was the Black Cat Cafe. There was a whole heap of Alannah Hill and Princess Highway clearance stuff AND THEN upstairs was a small fabric clearance section. So I stuffed bundles of lace and zippers into bags and got them dirt cheap. That shopping without kids thing was slightly dangerous. I digress.</div>
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The lace...and I'm thinking...</div>
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The last of my bonnets for 2014 are available in my <a href="http://www.thetoffeetree.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy store</a>. There are two sized 0-2 years and only one 2-4years (which I have just noticed I have never photographed...oops!). </div>
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<br />
I love the size of the brims on these bonnets because it DOES
actually keep the sun off a
tiny face. No sunburned cheeks or noses here. While there is a time and place for everything, I'm in a little quandry now. Do I keep making
the regular bonnets with the brim I've always done, and do I go back to a
smaller brim for smaller babies, which means making another size, perhaps 0-6 months. Do I add a lace or ribbon trim, to make it pop a bit more?<br />
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If you'd like a lovely parcel, like this one, to arrive on your doorstep, head over to my <a href="http://www.thetoffeetree.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> to see what is left in stock before someone else snaps it up! <br />
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Pssst...You can keep an eye on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thetoffeetree" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> or <a href="http://www.thetoffeetree.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy store</a> for more fabulous bonnets in the new year and dont forget if you sign up for my newsletter (come on, so far I've only sent a welcome one! I'm hardly going to bother you too much!) I will make sure you are the first to hear when new bonnets are headed into the online stores.<br />
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<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-13240264997770004542014-12-04T14:38:00.000+08:002014-12-04T14:38:55.810+08:00{Pattern Review} Baby Doll Basket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5WFk2f2xGUe4KAIdYlRY4cqZoTpzSf33P3jw_56vOCEdBLlwt0kJEgkVbBiZcwDRMSSBiKtCuhK-TSLWr_qpXCzoMPKrkcNVCGEgzANhEgjxO719hQFLf-ohpDhiOtPPyNoMP5rNrNU/s1600/pattern+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj5WFk2f2xGUe4KAIdYlRY4cqZoTpzSf33P3jw_56vOCEdBLlwt0kJEgkVbBiZcwDRMSSBiKtCuhK-TSLWr_qpXCzoMPKrkcNVCGEgzANhEgjxO719hQFLf-ohpDhiOtPPyNoMP5rNrNU/s1600/pattern+review.jpg" height="506" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
A playful feast for little eyes.<br />
All it needs is a baby doll and any 2 year old girl is set for the day with her best friend in tow.<br />
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The doll basket pattern is by <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2013/11/the-baby-doll-basket-pattern-is-here.html" target="_blank">MADE</a> (www.danamade.com) and is exceptionally well written. For an easy as pie, no fail doll basket pattern, look no further!<br />
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The bag was a special request addition from Edi's other Aunty M. It is super simple, whipped up with a couple of pairs of rectangles, a ruffle, some ribbon. A zip pouch on one side, made with a randomly found, perfectly coordinating zipper. I admit, I got a little over-excited about this colour matching. The little bag is even lined, with handles attached on each side at the top. The handles are long enough to put over a shoulder, but not over the head, across the body. I had intended to make it like a cross-shoulder bag but the straps, they just didn't talk to me and remind me. Now it's a one shoulder bag, big enough for a couple of nappies, a bottle and maybe even a change of clothes. Or an apple. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB1ylayDcVXWdfjchtIpidM5w7nuLkN2nQ_Mtlv-Vb_8GUYgxi1gdZowsLfY3ljNNrcuRXng0D_Ha_Wj9OrEMRmy-amPhJZaGR4eglReJNXx0Afqfks8febwduW-x9hyphenhyphentYkZxbPeWMUU/s1600/edi+doll+basket+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB1ylayDcVXWdfjchtIpidM5w7nuLkN2nQ_Mtlv-Vb_8GUYgxi1gdZowsLfY3ljNNrcuRXng0D_Ha_Wj9OrEMRmy-amPhJZaGR4eglReJNXx0Afqfks8febwduW-x9hyphenhyphentYkZxbPeWMUU/s1600/edi+doll+basket+collage.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The doll nappies are lined with a layer of cosy flannelette, so soft for those dollies' bottoms, and have velcro to make changes super easy for 2 and 3 year olds. <br />
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Baby Doll Basket Pattern Review<br />
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Ease of sewing: adventurous beginner. It is pretty easy. The pattern outlines the order and direction for cutting out the pieces (best you follow it) and is very easy to follow to construct the basket. <br />
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Trickiest bits: sewing the bias tape to the two layers. Stitching the pillow case pieces together! I didn't catch the edges all the way round the first time, so had to <br />
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Problems I ran into: My batting was a little bit thick, but it seemed to sew up OK. It was a bit tricky to get the bias around the corners, so it's not perfect but it's pretty good. The pattern called for 1/2inch double fold bias tape - I really don't know why, it's not that hard but this always makes me stop and I have to figure out ... is it 1/2 inch before being folded, or is that the folded measurement (FIY: it is 1/2inch, once folded). I made my own as per <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2011/01/technique-everything-you-need-to-know-about-bias-and-making-your-own-bias-tape.html" target="_blank">Dana's tutorial </a>(which I've mentioned before). <br />
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Fabrics I used:<br />
Quilting cotton outer and inner fabrics.<br />
A heavy weight iron on interfacing, nameless stuff from Spotlight to line both the outer and inner fabrics. The batting was thick stuff I aquired from my friend Helen, a Mum at our school. I didn't realise until after I'd sewn this baby up, that it was actully thicker than the recommended 1/2inch batting. No complaints really, but it was pretty chunky to
sew with and meant that the curves around the hood of the doll basket
were a teensy bit crinkly. Not like a 2yo is going to notice. <br />
<br />
So there are a few
things I'd do differently next time.<br />
1. I think I would line it
with chenille fabric, not plain old cotton. Or even flannelette like the pattern suggests. I just didn't have any flannelette in the colour scheme I was going for.<br />
2. The lining seems a little
big, but I do think the thickness of the batting meant my seam
allowances on the outer part were a little too big. Take care to keep seam allowances to a minimum (or at least what the pattern asks for!). <br />
2. Use thinner wadding or even try cotton quilt batting (perhaps two layers)<br />
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I did have one of those moments, you know where you wish you'd done a little bit more
research before beginning. Don't get me wrong, the outcome here is great. But I
do kinda like it when it is better than great.<br />
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Here is a little roundup of what some other crafty sewistas have made:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xzD1YUNBlfE/VH_40PxbjAI/AAAAAAAAE4w/vLflmHvu3II/s1600/BLOG2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xzD1YUNBlfE/VH_40PxbjAI/AAAAAAAAE4w/vLflmHvu3II/s1600/BLOG2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
Top <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/96915776@N00/" target="_blank">Katie on Flickr</a> | <a href="http://zitzmanfam.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/project-homemade-christmas-present-baby.html" target="_blank">Just Another Day in Paradise</a> | <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/sweethoneybunch/" target="_blank">Jenny on Flickr</a> <br />
Middle <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2013/11/the-baby-doll-basket-pattern-is-here.html" target="_blank">DanaMade</a> | <a href="http://ilovebuttonsbyemma.blogspot.com.au/2014_02_01_archive.html" target="_blank">I love buttons by Emma</a> | <a href="http://www.lbg-studio.com/2014/01/baby-doll-basket.html" target="_blank">{LBG Studio} </a><br />
Bottom: <a href="http://www.aestheticnest.com/2014/01/sewing-baby-doll-baskets-for-waldorf.html" target="_blank">Aesthetic Nest</a> | <a href="http://www.deliacreates.com/t-is-for-two-sew-all-26/" target="_blank">Delia Creates</a> | <a href="http://gluesticksblog.com/2014/03/baby-doll-basket.html" target="_blank">gluesticks</a><br />
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<br />
Now off you go! Get sewing your own for what will be a well loved Christmas gift. I'd better get cracking on the next one!<br />
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In case you are wondering, I purchased this pattern myself and all opinions are my own. <br />
<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-13996211024790688942014-12-03T12:10:00.000+08:002014-12-03T12:10:05.997+08:00{Better Blogging} watch this spaceHoly moly...what have I got myself into?! A <a href="http://www.saraharrow.co.uk/" target="_blank">30 day blogging challenge</a>...PLUS <a href="http://www.secretbloggersbusiness.com/" target="_blank">10 days to a better blog</a>.<br />
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Watch this space... Just sayin'...<br />
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And because I'm sick of yelling at my kids because they keep interrupting <i>MY</i> agenda, this is all I've got time for today...back to the <i>KIDS </i>agenda for today.thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-7010264616448918022014-10-11T06:00:00.000+08:002014-10-11T12:39:47.143+08:00Saturday Quick Six<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe8ANwou3xEbgTTls44xFrTR76Nrw2NwBraWjukt-cTv_kHtgGXpV8kLJ97Dd8tkxsknFDQFUeGRfUJjrGXM9T5cyviEnYzCFwuBC3BbiYjb16zAMwMLx9eyXj1R0uPtvXrif7jCVrQw/s1600/2014_10_071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQe8ANwou3xEbgTTls44xFrTR76Nrw2NwBraWjukt-cTv_kHtgGXpV8kLJ97Dd8tkxsknFDQFUeGRfUJjrGXM9T5cyviEnYzCFwuBC3BbiYjb16zAMwMLx9eyXj1R0uPtvXrif7jCVrQw/s1600/2014_10_071.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
1. Dizzy Lizzy Skirt, a new pattern I designed<br />
2. Blinky Bill in a Bonnet<br />
3. Snugglepot and Cuddlepie with ruffles<br />
4. A splash of milk, <a href="http://clicklovegrow.com.au/" target="_blank">Click Love Grow</a> photography course<br />
5. In Her Father's Hands<br />
6. Barbie clothes for a <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/" target="_blank">One Thimble</a> competition <a href="https://www.facebook.com/onethimble" target="_blank">on Facebook</a> and the <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/blog/peoples-choice-awards-fat-quarter-competition" target="_blank">One Thimble blog</a>.<br />
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You can head over to <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/blog/peoples-choice-awards-fat-quarter-competition" target="_blank">One Thimble</a> to check out all of the cool small Christmas-teacher-general sewing projects and vote for your favourite (how could it not be barbie clothes thou?!) <a href="http://www.onethimble.com.au/blog/peoples-choice-awards-fat-quarter-competition" target="_blank">here</a>. Voting closes 6pm QLD time 16th October 2014. thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-55466732050314486412014-09-17T22:44:00.001+08:002014-09-17T22:45:17.453+08:00Clothing SwapYes. That's right. Swap those clothes you don't wear for ones you DO want to wear!<br />
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Spring clean your wardrobe. <br />
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Purge yourself of something you've had for YEARS.<br />
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Make room for something NEW!<br />
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<b>The low-down on <i>how it works:</i></b><br />
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Drop kids off with husband (AKA babysitting, dad-duty) <br />
Drive to Next Generation, Bibra Lake (Perth, WA)<br />
Pay $18 entry <br />
Bring 15 items (max, it's OK if you have less), to swap for 15 "new-to-you" items <br />
Drop items off at 1.30pm (or arrange prior collection)<br />
Swap shop opens at 2.30pm, fight for the best swaps<br />
Go home and wear your hard fought bargains. <br />
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WHEN: Saturday 20th September, 2014. <br />
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Items MUST be in great, clean condition.<br />
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All funds raised go to the <a href="http://www.perkins.org.au/" target="_blank">Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research</a>. You are supporting Kate Deane (an awesomely great friend of mine) in her quest to walk 60km in the <a href="http://www.endcancer.org.au/index.html" target="_blank">Weekend to End Women's Cancers </a>). <br />
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So, GO SPRING CLEAN YOUR WARDROBE FOR A GOOD CAUSE. JUST START! And if you can't come, buy her a new pair of walking shoes (I said that, not her, but really, this is a truly great cause to get behind!)<br />
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For more info visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/clothingswapfundraiser">https://www.facebook.com/clothingswapfundraiser</a><br />
<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-21292316161682921972014-08-22T13:18:00.001+08:002016-04-17T17:11:13.981+08:00{Costumes} Book Week: Toothless and Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Book Week = costume making! </b>Whoop whoop! Before you read on, I have to explain that I love dress ups. Any excuse. I also love making different things, the same old thing on the production lines drives me a bit nuts. So when one kid says he wants to go as Toothless, I say cool. Lets do it! An opportunity to make and dress my kids in weird and wonderful things will never get past me. And if I can visualise the making process, I go all out. I also put things of til the last minute. Like the very last minute. So we (I actually) did have a couple of late nights. <br />
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I'm going to blog this quickly now, before I get
all critical about how imperfect these costumes are... in advance, sorry
for the photo overload. <br />
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Mr K wanted to go as "Toothless", the dragon from How to Train Your Dragon. Never mind that the dragon in the book is a different breed to the one in the movie. We did the movie-style dragon. I got a bit in trouble because the teeth didn't go all the way around the hood. [ insert smiley grimace(mine)...fine wear your sports clothes then]. I pondered over the wings for way too long, Mr Toffee Tree suggested reticulation pipe which would have worked perfectly is it wasn't quite so curly! Maybe in a few weeks it will become more wing shaped?!<br />
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Mr N didn't have kindy today, but he wanted to be Hiccup (from How to Train Your Dragon 2, because don't you know, he has a totally different outfit from the first movie) and walk in the parade with his brother. His lovely teacher let him join in. I taped silver duct tape on his sock-covered-boot to mimic Hiccup's prosthetic lower leg, but didn't get a pic of that one as I did it in the car on the way to school! <br />
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P.S. I'm learning (slowly) how to use a new lens and I just couldn't figure out the light this morning in some of the shots!<br />
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ADDIT:<br />
The HOW TO on HICCUP<br />
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I basically made a simple long sleeve t-shirt Recess Raglan T (from See Kate Sew/pattern anthology), the pants were a simplified version of Coastal Cargos by Blank Slate, I just added the brown strips down the outer leg before I sewed each leg together. The leg cuff/horizontal ties are brown strips with a bit of elastic to hold them on the outside of the pants.<br />
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The rest I really winged it by looking at pictures from the movie... the brown vest I put a whole lot of effort into 'quilting' in a diagonal cross-hatch and really shouldn't have bothered because you can hardly see it. I did cut a basic pattern from tracing vilene to check the size/shape before I cut the actual fabric. It is lined, but not interlined with anything. The strings pass through small buttonholes.<br />
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The black vest was made from polar fleece - I cut around a t-shirt that fit Nath, about half the length of the tshirt. The back was in one piece on the fold, but for the front, one side was longer to cross over the chest (Right should be longer). Because I cut the wrong side to overlap...doh!...I flipped it inside out. Polar fleece - no worries! Bit picky probably but I'm sure every 4-6yo boy (and every boy beyond) would look at it and say it was around the wrong way! I added a 'grandfather' style collar to it, which don't ask me why, I lined with a random fabric (so I really should have made it plain old black). Plus I cut strips, stitched into a flat tube for the crossover strap, then sewed down at each end and attached together with a belt loop thingo. The other short strappy bits I simply stitched straight on and added some little silver pyramid claw embellishments. The red button. Makes me smile. I made that button about 15 years ago (perhaps longer!), along with a few in other colours. Not sure what for, but now one has been used!!<br />
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The black waist belt was a length of polar fleece, folded in half and sewn together, turned right side out. Held together (unsuccessfully) with a single silver pyramid claw clasp. A little longer with a knot would had done the trick!<br />
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For the arm guards - I cut a black oval for each arm plus a brown rectangular-ish shape - oval at the top, flat at the bottom, slightly longer than the black oval. The red ensign on the Right arm was also polar fleece sewn straight on to the black piece, before it was stitched to the brown underneath. I tacked this onto the green sleeve on each vertical side. If your green shirt isn't stretchy, probably do this first, before you make the shirt. Mine was jersey stretch so it wasn't a problem to do it afterwards. <br />
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The forearm cuffs are tubes of black polar fleece. I added the brown shield pieces and the semi-circle hand covers before I stitched the tube together.The stretch of the polar fleece held these up OK for a little while, but could have done with some elastic up the top near the elbow, to hold them up a bit better.<br />
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The boys pointed out to me last week, when the costumes made a re-appearance, that the forearms were missing a whole stack of black straps. Oh...well...um...<br />
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A recap - Hiccup is made up of...<br />
Green jersey stretch raglan tee<br />
Green velveteen (non-stretch) coastal cargo pants with brown strip, brown thigh strips<br />
Long brown vest with string ties<br />
Cropped black polar fleece<br />
Arm guards- black oval, brown rectangle<br />
Forearm guards - black tube, brown rectangle, brown semi-circle<br />
Black waist belt. <br />
Gumboots covered with Dad's black socks, one embellished with silver duct tape for the prosthetic leg. <br />
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Finding anything?<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it."</span><br />
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👑 Athetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-64469390603131647742014-07-31T23:22:00.001+08:002014-07-31T23:22:05.142+08:00Knights and Dragons and Damsels in Distress <br />
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Do you remember, when you were a kid, dressing up as a princess and fighting the dragons, being rescued by the charming knight? Yeah, me neither! I do remember that my Grandma had a fabulous dress up box in her bathroom. It's probably still there! I don't actually remember what was in it, except for a cowboy outfit, whose life expectancy was probably cut short by my lil' sis?!? I know we used to dress her up a lot.<br />
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And I do remember climbing trees with my tea set. Seriously, which kid
doesn't love a little tree climbing and a little dress up!? <br />
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This knight hoodie is the perfect answer to doing both. A dress up that
is totally OK for everyday wear. Yup, no need to drag superman or spidey
through the supermarket with you. Take a Knight. Or maybe you could
make him into a Ninja. You could even have a Knight GIRL. Maybe I should
try that. Leave the screaming banshee princess at home and take the
sensible, brave Knight GIRL.<br />
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You know you're onto a winner when the boys actually want to repeat wear things you've made. And when you get a request for a big cousin. It is coming! </div>
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The knight fought the dragon, and since the dragon didn't really like being hit over the head with a plastic sword, they duelled by rock-paper-scissors.<br />
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These guys really are great friends in real life.<br />
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And she's saying, who wouldn't want one?<br />
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Thanks to <a href="http://charmingdoodle.com/">CharmingDoodle.com</a> for doing the hard yards and coming up with a pattern. I wonder how her adult sizes are coming along? I did modify the Knight Hoodies I've made a bit (of course) but will save that for another time.<br />
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If you want to purchase a Knight Hoodie from The Toffee Tree, head over to my Etsy store <a href="http://www.thetoffeetree.etsy.com/" target="_blank">here</a>, where you can find custom listings in children's sizes 2-10.<br />
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Photography by <a href="http://www.elkedous.com.au/" target="_blank">Elke Dous Photography</a><br />
Models supplied by Elke and myself.<br />
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Don't forget, if you sign up to my newslettery thingo up the top, these occasional blog updates will pop up in your inbox, all by themselves. thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-72121034393938675992014-07-25T21:31:00.002+08:002014-07-25T23:13:08.773+08:00Spring Blooms Sun Hat [pattern review]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No hat, no play? This has become completely second nature to us, so much so, that as adults we want a fabulous hat for ourselves! And why not treat ourselves to our own little piece of handmade awesome!</div>
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Around Christmas time I made two <a href="http://angelleadesigns.com/" target="_blank">Angel Lea</a> girls <a href="https://www.madeit.com.au/Main/Item?itemId=722718" target="_blank">Summer Daze sun hats</a> (<a href="http://thetoffeetree.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/a-floatilla-of-purple.html" target="_blank">here</a>), then recently had a request for an adult version for Nanny Sue for her upcoming trip to Europe. Specifically, a fabric hat that can fold up into her luggage. Lucky for me, Angel Lea has the <a href="http://angelleadesigns.com/shop/sewing-patterns/spring-blooms-womens-sun-hat-pattern" target="_blank">Spring Blooms pattern</a> - the perfect upsize without the precision that the patchworking required on the smaller hats. Honestly, this drove me... <i>a little nuts.</i></div>
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Why make one hat when it is just as easy to make two at the same time? I made one for my Mum, who happens to be Nanny Sue's BFF and also about to galavant around Europe <i>for the first time ever! Go MUM!!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFkGkw_LY-03mMmZq4tZ00Yfu60aiwBJ8ByxIMxuuzTUcr8P3z7JnwfI5UBfR9QXcgECqWRD3RZhWxue2mQF2vK58KIx7_xRTbUutXoNag3b-xa4E7BBy8u8rN4h7Q70hl7jFZqxk0Ls/s1600/IMG_7983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFkGkw_LY-03mMmZq4tZ00Yfu60aiwBJ8ByxIMxuuzTUcr8P3z7JnwfI5UBfR9QXcgECqWRD3RZhWxue2mQF2vK58KIx7_xRTbUutXoNag3b-xa4E7BBy8u8rN4h7Q70hl7jFZqxk0Ls/s1600/IMG_7983.JPG" height="640" width="454" /></a></div>
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Back to the pattern = this pattern is super easy to follow, goes together easily without any fussing to attach the crown and brim pieces. The most time consuming part (as always) is choosing which fabric combo to use! Oh, the deliberation! The fiddliest bit is cutting all of those fabric and interfacing pieces, then ironing them together. Guess when you make two, it seems like forever. Best done on Night One. Night Two will see you finish off your hat(s) completely. If you are lucky enough to have a whole day to devote to sewing, knock yourself out. You'll nail it! <br />
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I used heavy weight interfacing for the whole hat. The pattern calls for medium weight interfacing. I just used what I could get hold of and next time I make this hat (there will definitely be a next time!) I would use heavy weight for the brim - I like the stiffness it gives but a medium weight for the crown pieces. The heavy weight interfacing did tend to make the hat stand quite stiffly when I wore it. I'm keen to see how it wears and looks after being folded through travel - I will keep you posted!<br />
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Rather than stitching the trim to the hat, it was quite easy to stitch a simple loop of stranded cotton to each side of the hat to secure it. This way, the hat can easily be reversed and the trim threaded back through the loops on the other side to keep in in place. Genius, I know. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDRKfgMUfs8/U9Jk4ioFgBI/AAAAAAAAEtU/2c_HiljPF2Y/s1600/IMG_7993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tDRKfgMUfs8/U9Jk4ioFgBI/AAAAAAAAEtU/2c_HiljPF2Y/s1600/IMG_7993.JPG" height="400" width="393" /></a></div>
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The fit is perhaps a little on the tight side. I made two Small (57cm) hats for a 56-57cm heads and both turned out to be a little snug. Perhaps it's just that my seam allowances ended up being 11mm instead of 10mm. Hopefully they give a little (room , not headaches) with a bit more wearing. Else I'm sure to get a grumpy email, from some dreamable destination, that I wish it really was <i>me </i>enjoying.<br />
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As soon as I have pictures of these hats in Paris and Tuscany (and wherever else they shall wander) in action, I'll be sure to post them here, too! I don't know whether these hats will meet up with each other in any of those far-away dreamable locations, those ones where it's me wishing I was there too, but it would be totes cool! For now, be happy with my dolly, who's been nicknamed 'Dora' (there are 2 'Dora's' btw) who's head size is 48cm. The hats are a smidge too big for her. Yeah, OK, a bit more than a smidge. Still, no biggy hey. She seems to enjoy it. <br />
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I have just noticed the Summer Daze Sun Hat pattern is no longer available, how terrible, <a href="http://thetoffeetree.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/a-floatilla-of-purple.html" target="_blank">these hats </a>are simply beautiful. I wonder if she will release more patterns?<br />
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<i><b>SUPPLIES</b></i><br />
<a href="http://angelleadesigns.com/shop/sewing-patterns/spring-blooms-womens-sun-hat-pattern" target="_blank">Spring Blooms Hat (Angel Lea)</a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.kelanifabric.com.au/E9802::288801:Alexander-Henry-Flying-High-Smokey-Turquoise" target="_blank">Alexander Henry Flying High Smokey Turquoise </a>from Kelani Fabric Obsession, 100% cotton</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dark Ink coated linen from Potters Textiles in North Perth (wholesale fabric open to the public) </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.kelanifabric.com.au/?PSO=236&PSID=06033327&PSV=Primary&EGPUID=112334" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">Texan Light Weight Denim</span></a> from Kelani Fabric Obsession, 100% cotton</span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Aquamarine and multicolour spotty fabric 100% cotton quilting fabrics from Southlands Sewing Centre (my go-to local fabric store)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Green dots on white from my stash.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">DMC stranded cotton for ties</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Heavy weight interfacing from Spotlight </span></span></span><br />
thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-88732085160186593092014-06-20T11:58:00.000+08:002014-06-20T11:58:00.163+08:00Quick Six for Friday...and a winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a890kptCSXs/U6OtU1PTBiI/AAAAAAAAEqc/HzhqH7r8WGQ/s1600/2014_04_25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a890kptCSXs/U6OtU1PTBiI/AAAAAAAAEqc/HzhqH7r8WGQ/s1600/2014_04_25.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Her humour</div>
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2. Stonehenge, Esperance</div>
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3. Rolling in the sand dunes, Sandy Cape </div>
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4. Running up Wave Rock, Hyden</div>
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5. Mother's Day gifting - jam jar covers</div>
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5. Barbie and Big Girl Capelets </div>
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These are snipets from our past couple of months. Seems blogging has gotten away from me! Sewing however has not and there is a lot (made and mess) on the floor of the sewing room this week. Upmarket prep in full swing. Lots of capes, a few barbie capes and dresses, pants for boys and girls. There will be a bundle of knight hoodies for sale at next Sunday, so if you want one for your small knight, take a stroll around UWA. I'll be indoors this time, in the junior section.</div>
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Speaking of knight hoodies, if you dont follow on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheToffeeTree" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, you wont have heard that Wendy R was the extremely lucky winner of the handmade Knight Hoodie. The winner of the pattern very kindly donated by <a href="http://www.charmingdoodle.com/" target="_blank">Charming Doodle</a> was Elena W. Congratulations to both and a huge thankyou to all those who liked, shared and loved the knight hoodie!</div>
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And a bit more of "her humour". I really couldn't get her to stand still long enough for the perfect shot, but she made me laugh all the same. </div>
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Happy Friday! thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-62687817711195963562014-05-30T14:09:00.001+08:002014-05-30T14:10:32.196+08:00Knight Hoodie {Giveaways}Do you have a dark knight? Or a dreamy white knight? Or maybe just a darn cute playful knight?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFrWCRbbXiLLLTkL-1V8avMX0VSS3oG0DRtoaRQe_r7DBqa-QVZs4YnOtegsToHVHOTzyREzML3MXs3gLof3hzr5nA-k-5WTKhdUZcLeyBm5PzA7H-6hZBdWkc5uCr7SSnBCNR-yGyuE/s1600/knight+hoodie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFrWCRbbXiLLLTkL-1V8avMX0VSS3oG0DRtoaRQe_r7DBqa-QVZs4YnOtegsToHVHOTzyREzML3MXs3gLof3hzr5nA-k-5WTKhdUZcLeyBm5PzA7H-6hZBdWkc5uCr7SSnBCNR-yGyuE/s1600/knight+hoodie.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's your chance to get him (or her) dressed up in their fav play outfit that can last ALL DAY! And tomorrow and the next day. That is if they don't eat. Let's face it. Kids are messy. That top is only going to last one day, two at the most before it is smeared with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fortunately, we do have that modern convenience of washing machines and dryers (unless like us, you don't have a dryer).<br />
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I'm holding a little COMPETITION over on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheToffeeTree" target="_blank">Facebook </a>page - if we can get just 100 likes on <a href="http://on.fb.me/1mxDVlH" target="_blank">the knight post</a> pinned to the to of the page, I will make one hoodie to give away to one lucky kid. If you want your lucky kid to win, you also need to leave a comment (you can even just say Hi!) on the <a href="http://on.fb.me/1mxDVlH" target="_blank">pinned knight post</a>. <br />
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And to top it off, the wonderful Elisa at <a href="http://www.charmingdoodle.com/" target="_blank">Charming Doodle </a>who owns the pattern is also giving ONE PATTERN AWAY! Ain't that charming! <br />
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Enter the comp so let your kid be the envy of every other kid around!<br />
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The fine print - <span style="font-size: x-small;">Hoodie can be made in a size 2-10 only in winner's choice of colour. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Regular postage within Australia is included. (Overseas postage to an overseas winner will incur a $15AUD charge). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Competition will close at 12pm Tuesday 4th June, <i>IF</i> 100 likes are reached.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">To enter competiton, you must leave a COMMENT on the post on the The Toffee Tree's facebook page</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Winner will be chosen by random generator, first to be drawn will win the hoodie, second name to be drawn will win the pattern. Should the winner not want the pattern (or hoodie), I will continue to draw randomly. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Winner must claim prize (make contact with The Toffee Tree) within 48 hours of competition ending. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Judges decision is final.</span><br />
<br />thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6993906841889231055.post-29073645704008132522014-05-27T22:07:00.000+08:002018-01-23T22:54:33.966+08:00{PATTERN REVIEW] The Hero Vest by Make it Perfect<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh977_Zo2d-4H0mLsF0_ZCZ487Tt-wC8OlCm1JpxfFXLgDEpZinwbTbupUz61pVRRXW-wJnd21u5qAcJuzAOkdLndUl18a0EFV_ctNKmBMQmnhDvnWMSlfjstONjBRT20e7yVkT7Y5_nAw/s1600/anya+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh977_Zo2d-4H0mLsF0_ZCZ487Tt-wC8OlCm1JpxfFXLgDEpZinwbTbupUz61pVRRXW-wJnd21u5qAcJuzAOkdLndUl18a0EFV_ctNKmBMQmnhDvnWMSlfjstONjBRT20e7yVkT7Y5_nAw/s1600/anya+closeup.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nothing like a little bit of last minute pre-Easter camping trip sewing.
Times by three. Improve time efficiency right! That's what I like to
tell myself anyway. I've had this pattern for the Hero Vest for some time (actually, I WON it
during the Make it
Perfect Show your stuff competition last year) and while I've thought
about making one for one of the boys, I probably couldn't decide which
one
to make it for. So, I never made one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhA8oGHeqtbUjbb1gx-3AxbnBsfYVa8GceeACRjOMY411mlMDetRya2PZ5uwI9iMMKXCmru9Fm2QkEPrz8O98q2jJuTD2hzKygrZgqOP4NOjwhNA3Ub9iB6VBXLMplG53DbBsEkMUV8M/s1600/nate+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhA8oGHeqtbUjbb1gx-3AxbnBsfYVa8GceeACRjOMY411mlMDetRya2PZ5uwI9iMMKXCmru9Fm2QkEPrz8O98q2jJuTD2hzKygrZgqOP4NOjwhNA3Ub9iB6VBXLMplG53DbBsEkMUV8M/s1600/nate+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Back to Easter (I know I know, it was like two months ago, but I'm not entirely hot on my productivity at the moment). A few days before we went away for
Easter (and while I really should have been doing other things) I
decided I'd make the kids one each. So we took a trip to good old Spotlight for polar
fleece, which I have a preference for not using (polyester-polar fleece that is. I love Spotlight), but I wasn't going to
find any cotton fleece so "you get what you got" close by. <br />
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The Hero Vest is a unisex zip up vest pattern. And the vest <i>really is</i> a hero because it's got a hood (also know by 2 year olds as a 'foody', rhymes with hoody). And a zip. Winner! Fortunately, I'm not afraid of zips. They really are pretty easy to sew in. And I even managed to line up the matching fabrics either side of the zip on ALL THREE VESTS! Go me!!<br />
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The only thing I couldn't quite get right was the amount of overlap on the pattern so that the zip didn't chew up too much of the pattern. I did think about this when I cut the fabric, but at that stage wasn't sure how the zip was going to be sewn in. I think I was thinking it would be a bit more invisible. Dont know why I thought that, but clearly it isn't an invisible zip. So the butterflies on the front on Possom Blossom's vest were chopped in half. Still they did line up perfectly at least. What I really should have done was make the centre next to the butterflies, not down the middle of them. That awesome buttefly fabric by the way was from <a href="http://kelanifabric.com.au/" target="_blank">Kelani Fabric</a>. </div>
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Of course, I couldn't stop at the vests alone. I made them each a matching fabric basket
for the Egg Hunt on Easter morning. They loved the vests more than the
baskets. Though if I really have to admit it, they loved the chocolate
eggs most. <br />
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<i><u>SUPPLIES:</u></i><br />
Hero Vest Pattern by <a href="http://www.makeitperfect.com.au/" target="_blank">Make it Perfect</a><br />
Echino Insect Black by Estuko Furuya<br />
Studio M for Moda, Mixed Bag, Which Way Chill<br />
<span class="irc_su" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Tamara Kate for Michael Miller, Les Monsieurs Taupe Scribble Cars </span><br />
Coordinated polar fleece from Spotlight<br />
Open ended jacket zippers<br />
Hilco ringo ribbing from <a href="http://www.craftymamasfabrics.com.au/collections/hilco?page=2" target="_blank">Crafty Mamas Fabric</a>s<br />
Plain red ribbing from <a href="http://www.knitwit.com.au/" target="_blank">KnitWit</a>thetoffeetreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13965004472500943067noreply@blogger.com0