More Imaginary Sewing

This is a peek at my current sewing project:
a version of Rose, the latest pattern from Children's Corner.

I selected a large size gingham in hunter green, accented with red piping and buttons.

It is approximately three-fourths constructed, but a cold has zapped me of sewing energy.

I also discovered that sneezing and watery eyes do not help with sewing straight seams!

So, we will do a little imaginary sewing while waiting for the medicine to kick in and the sneezing fits to pass.

While I still love the traditional Christmas colors of red, green and white, it is also fun to play with some of the more trendy color schemes.  Turquoise and red have always been a favorite combination of mine, and they are showing up more and more in holiday decorations and fashion.

This turquoise houndstooth in a brushed cotton would be cozy and warm for the winter months.  I can definitely see it smocked, embroidered or appliqued with jolly red Santas!

To extend the wear beyond the holidays, a winter themed smocking plate is perfect!

The snow and evergreen trees in this design by Little Memories lend a bit of holiday feel, but could easily be worn well beyond the holidays.  Turquoise and pink or always a fun combination!

Another idea for turquoise and pink, and another fun winter themed smocking design from Little Memories!  Who can resist mittens and snowmen?

We cannot forget the boys, either!

I think turquoise can be a fun color for little guys, too.

Think of brother and sister outifts with these precious penquins!

The plate on the left is by Junebug Designs, and on the right, another plate by Little Memories.

By changing the floss colors from pink and lavender to deeper and more "manly" colors, you can achieve a completely different look.

I hope sudden winter storms and colds have not sidelined too many of you.

I plan to be back at my machine and visiting here more often, once I quit reaching for a tissue every few minutes. Thanks for joining me in some imaginary sewing in the meantime!

All fabric,smocking plates, floss and trim available at BessieMary.



Children's Corner Hillary

Hillary, by Children's Corner, has always been a favorite of mine!

I made this little version several years ago, using a floral print (no longer available) and a coordinating gingham.

I have fabrics pulled to make another Hillary, but still attempting to clean and organize my sewing room.

I may just have to admit defeat on the cleaning and organizing and start sewing!

The square neckline, and combination of pleats and gathers in the front, make this design a little different from most basic square yoke dresses.

I adore turn cord bows.  The front of this little dress just seemed to beg for one.

After all, everything is better with a bow!

Sweet design touches continue on the back of the dress, with a v-shaped neckline and yoke overlap.

It is the perfect spot for a decorative Mother of Pearl button!

I also used the gingham for the skirt placket, just to add another small and special touch!

Sorry for the fuzzy pictures.

I think my camera is suggesting that I need to continue cleaning and save photography for another day!

Whether cleaning or stitching, may it be a good Monday for you!

E is for Turkey

The letter E is definitely not for "early", as I am running very late with this project!

The pattern is Children's Corner Lucy, shortened to tunic length.

I selected pink twill to coordinate with the purchased stripe leggings.

I adore this Turkey Monogram from Planet Applique!

The letter and bias binding at the hem are FreeSpirit's Freckles in brown.

Due to our cloudy skies today, the colors are a little off in the photograph.

It is much happier in person!

Pattern and fabrics available at BessieMary. 

The Great Pumpkin in a Small Size!

Do we ever grow tired of Jack's toothy grin?

I think not!

I selected Children's Corner Lucy, View B, and shortened it to tunic length.  Fabric Finder's orange and white polka dot twill was the perfect background for Ellen McCarn's Ready to Sew Applique, Punkin' Face!

The bottom edge of the top is trimmed with jumbo black rick rack.

I purchased a pair of little black knit leggings to complete the ensemble!



Now, this is making me hungry for candy corn, and all things pumpkin and spice!

~All fabrics, trim, pattern and applique available at http://www.bessiemary.com/

Alligators, Elephants and Taxes -- Oh, my!

Pardon my temporary disappearance!  I was buried under the avalanche of paper, receipts and forms that seem inevitable at this time of year.

I did manage to eek out some time to go on a safari,  returning with some mighty cute alligators and elephants!

Wanting to try a fairly new pattern, Willilam and Winnie by Children's Corner, I first selected a LakeHouse Dry Goods fabric, Elephant Toss.  There are tiny little elephants scattered all over!

A coordinating dot provided the perfect lining.  I also used the same fabric to applique a larger elephant on the lower skirt, as well as make covered buttons for the shoulder straps.

William is a romper for boys.  Mango Stripe Seersucker was used for the romper, while Kiwi Gingham was used for piping and alligator applique. 

For this version of Winnie, I decided to add a ruffle to the bottom of the skirt. 

If you wish to add a ruffle like I did, you will need to use a different method of construction than provided in the pattern.  Children's Corner has produced a series of videos with clear step-by-step instructions.  You may view the technique I used by clicking here.

 

And what girl alligator doesn't love a big bow and long eyelashes?  Some quick hand embroidery added a few fun details!  The bow was made using cast on stitches, while the eyelashes are back stitches.

Alligator applique may be found at Embroidery Boutique.

Elephant applique may be found at Applique Cafe.

This entry is linked to Sew and Tell Friday.

Please visit Amy's blog to see more sewing fun!