Been Swapping? I have!

So not too long ago I posted that I had participated in a September Swap at Made with Love Fabrics. We swapped zipper bags and it was really fun. When I posted my blog I received a comment from a reader who also is a blogger. Cara, is the blogger at SewingSociety.com, who reached out to me to see if I was interested in doing a blogger collab and swapping a handmade Fall item. I had some free time in my schedule so I agreed and was excited about finding a fun project. I hopped into the rabbit hole that is Pinterest and wasted a lot of hours collecting tons of ideas.

I decided to make some patchwork pumpkin placemats (Mug Rugs, actually) because hot chocolate and cookies are so much better off a pumpkin placemat! I knew I would need to cut about 2,735,184 small squares of various orange prints to make my pumpkins and I was a little stressed out about that, but then I remembered I had a small bin of 2 inch orange strips that would easily cut into 2 inch squares! YES!! I love using my precuts to make products quick and easy. These strips were leftovers from the Bonnie Hunter Punkin Patch quilt that I haven’t finished yet. 🙂

Step 1. Cut or Collect your 2 inch strips. Remember this is scrappy and all the orange shades work!

Step 2. Subcut your strips into 2 inch squares. I used a rotary cutter and a quilting ruler to make fast work of them.

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Step 3. Sew your squares into rows. I went 5 wide because I wanted an odd number so I could add my stem to the middle. Press your seams in opposites directions so your rows will neatly nest together. Repeat for 4 rows.

Step 4. Turn those rows into one patchwork rectangle with a 5 by 4 configuration.

Step 5. Now cut a piece of batting and a backing piece. You can make them slightly larger and trim them down like I did. In this photo I have already stitched my top patchwork and batting piece together. I was sure to do this inside my final seam allowance. Next free hand yourself a little leaf and stem pattern. You could also print one out and make a template if needed. Sew them wrong sides together and turn them right side out to hide the seams.

Step 6. Baste your leaf and stem in place. Be aware that your stem will flip up and your leaf will stay down. Your leaf needs to be on top of the pumpkin sandwich before sewing. 🙂

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Step 7. Add your backing fabric, right sides together to your pumpkin sandwich and stitch around the outer edge. Leave yourself about a 2.5 inch opening to turn your pumpkin right sides out. I marked my opening so I would not forget and sew it closed.

Step 8. Turn your pumpkin and top stitch for a finished look. The topstitching will also close the opening you left for turning. I made a set of 4, added a little handwritten note and got them in the mail and off towards Cara’s house!

Two days after I mailed her package, I received mail from her! Cara thought she was going to make a doorknob hanger, but you never really know with swap items what will arrive. I opened up her padded envelope and was shocked!

It WAS a door hanger, but it was such a fun Halloween BOO themed one! It was put together with beautiful embroidery and covered in spooky things and stitched eyeballs! I loved the bright bold colors and couldn’t wait to hang it up! I have a doggo who loves to jump, so for safety sake I hung it higher than the doorknob. This is not a chew toy!

It looks awesome! Thank you again Cara for your fun swapping idea! I hope all my readers pop over to sewsociety.com to read all the wonderful posts from her. Her blog is filled with helpful hints, tricks, and tips plus pattern reviews and sewalongs. See ya next time for some more spooky fun!

Double Zippered Pouch

This is a little bit of a change of pace for me and my blog. This make isn’t an outfit, but I did make it and it is sewn, so I say it counts! I haven’t had a ton of time to make clothing lately, but I did get a little machine time in to create this little double zipper pouch. I should start by saying this was for a swap which I joined through a Facebook group called Made with Love by Mollie fabrics. This is actually a fabric group, but we did a swap! We were each assigned a partner and needed to make a zipper pouch for someone else and mail them within two weeks. Those were the only rules.

This was my first ever double zipper bag so I knew it would be a challenge to myself, but I wanted be able to send a nice item to my partner. I knew how to make a basic zipper pouch so I did a little research into adding a second zipper on the back panel! In my mind, this was much more difficult than it actually was. So here we go. This is the short version.

1. Create front panel- Major scrappy goodness here my friends!

2. Create Back Panel – Less scrappy, still as cool.

Yep, adorable bikes for inside the pockets!

3. Add zippers and connect panels. It is all coming together now!

4. Finish your corners and Tada! You have a bag. I added jewelry charms to the zippers for a little more whimsy. It really is all about the details, correct? They are super cute and took about 14 seconds to install. Trust me when I say it took me waaayyyy longer to decide which bee charms I should use.

Bzzzzzzz goes the little bees!

I think I need one of these myself, maybe a little larger.

Would anyone be interested in a Youtube video with more detailed directions for completing a bag similar to this? I think that could be fun! Let me know in the comments!

Do you think this would be a nice gift? Christmas gifts anyone??

Me Made May Day 5

So I have just came to terms with being a day late nearly everyday so far, but life…

Anyhow, just one photo today. Scrappy little quilt blocks using up left over cotton bits of “stuffs.” These are end cuts and off cuts and miscuts. 🙂 I am making these blocks for a scrappy quilt in between sewing other things. They will all be trimmed to a standard size when I have “a ton” of them!

Now click here to enter my

Me Made May Give Away Raffle!!

Me Made May – Day 2

Did you guys I began sewing with quilting? Yep, I only began making clothing in the last two years or so. I have always loved scrap quilts and am obsessed with Bonnie Hunter quilts!

Today I am sharing a quilt I have been working on. This is a design from Bonnie Hunter over at Quiltville. She designed another great pattern and is sharing it as part of #Sewinplace as the #UnityQuiltAlong. I spent most of the day geocaching today and this evening I am sewing up something awesome to share in the next few days! Make sure you follow my blog so you don’t miss anything I am sharing for #MeMadeMay!

Don’t forget to sign up for some prizes using the raffle copter below!

Click Here to Enter the Raffle to Win

38 Trips Around the Sun

Instead of being like a thousand other bloggers, I decided to write my New Years Blog Post for my Birthday! Yep, today I am 38. I am not usually one who gets crazy about turning a year older, except when I turned 25…”It was dark times Harry, Dark Times…” That was a rough one! When I think about the things I have done in the last year, I am pretty happy. I switched positions at my job, I bought my first brand new car, I realized it is ok to do fun things alone, upgraded to a new DSLR camera, took my first photography class and I even had time to sew some awesome clothes. I rediscovered my love for geocaching and hiking as well. Overall it was a good year, but I want to make this year even better.

Puppy Playtime!

I have spent several weeks/months really thinking of the direction I want to take my blog. I am just like every other blogger, I want to grow my audience and reach more people. I have noticed a lot of new faces following my social media accounts and for that, I am so grateful. It feels good to be noticed. I don’t know if the average person realizes how much work goes into being a sewing blogger. Pick a pattern, sew it up at least once (typically more), photos, photo edits, write blog posts, then share. 🙂 I do enjoy it though. I like knowing there is a record of my progress. I often look back at blog posts to remind myself of the changes I made to a garment and if I liked the fit or not. I love that other people will randomly find a blog post and leave me a message or pick up a pattern I haven’t mentioned in months. It makes me feel good knowing someone saw the joy in my blog. It also makes makes me feel good when I see kind comments from someone I don’t know.

Being a sewing blogger isn’t all sunshine and flowers though. Every single post is a risk. That seems a little odd, but it is true. Every post we make, every share we do, puts us up for being judged. Readers, I don’t know about you, but it doesn’t feel good to me. The comments people make shock me sometimes. For the dozens of good comments, there are always some bad ones. “Your shirt is too tight.” “You would look better with heels.” “You would look slimmer if…” “That color was a bold choice.” “Prints make you look bigger.” “Plus size can’t wear stripes.” and the list goes on…it is a long list. Note to crabby readers…your comments about me will never be harsher than my own thoughts. Why do people do this? Golden Rule, Folks. If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. As a sewing blogger, I have gained some confidence though. Sometime,s I even dare to say my outfit looks cute or nice. Baby Steps.

So let’s talk about goals for the next 365 days.

*Do more quality sewing. I do a lot of quick sews, well in the past I did a lot. I have greatly reduced the number of tests I am doing. I want to sew things on my schedule for what I want to sew.

*Learn new things. Master my fit issues ehm… pants, bras, etc. Somethings scare me to sew…Bras…tried it once and quit! Pants are a work in progress. For me, I need to realize my body isn’t a normal feminine shape. Most patterns account for hips and booty and I lack in both. But I am making huge strides in preparing to sew my own jeans!!

*Write at least 5 blog posts for designers or for blog tours. Always on the look out for blog tours!! Tag me if you start one. I want in!

*Test less, Upcycle more. I have seen several mentions lately that plus size upcycling isn’t as popular as smaller sizes. I do agree with this in a way, but I have been upcycling for YEARS! When I began sewing, I started by thrifting for anything with great fabrics! I made some cool stuff, now I have more sewing skills I should be putting to use! As a bonus, we are saving a little space in the landfills!

*Continue to be a positive influence online. I shouldn’t need to explain this one.

*Learn to say No!

I love dressing in layers! S0 happy Fall is here again!

If I haven’t lost ya yet, thanks for sticking around! This is going to be an awesome year and I can’t wait to update this post on my next Birthday.  Don’t forget to give my blog a follow and leave me a comment! 🙂

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 As always this blog contains affiliate links, which is a small commission I earn when you make a purchase from my blog links. Thank you for helping to support my sewing.

Dotty Mini Purse – Last Day!

World’s Longest Sew Along!

Holy Cow, Gang! I have been sick. Day after day in bed, A few doctor visits, a couple medications, an allergic reaction to said medication, Ugg The cycle is never ending! Before this post was even posted I was blind sided by an awesome migraine in the middle of grocery shopping.

Anyhow, enough whining and back to our regularly scheduled sewing!

Video number 3. Let’s learn how to shorten a zipper, create and install the zipper placket and race towards a finish!

 

 I did figure out how to merge the two videos into one video and after doing so, the program wanted to charge me 50 bucks… ummm not today buddy!

Let’s bind those raw edges for a finish!

Be sure to check out my last two posts for info on picking up the pattern.

LET’S ANNOUNCE WINNER’S

Marie Biswell

Ashwini

Sobana

I will be emailing all three of our winner’s and getting them set up with their free pattern!! Thank you so much for everyone who hung in there while I was unable to sit up and sew. I will be back soon with another sew along in the not too distant future!

I hope you are all in great health and sewing along. Please share your makes with me!

Dotty Mini Purse Day 3

How are your purses coming along? They are pretty fun aren’t there?

Today’s video will show you how to finish up your outer bag assemble and basting in your lining! It is finally taking shape!

I have our third video up and running and you will want to check it out!

 

Have you picked up the pattern yet?

Here are those links. You can use either one.

Etsy Shop Link

Website Link

Did you know You can also follow along with the Sew Along and enter the raffles for a chance to win a free copy of the pattern! Just read to the bottom of this page and enter the rafflecopter. I have 3 PDF patterns to give away to my readers.

Now sign up to win a free pattern by clicking below!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

Chezvies Dotty Mini Purse Sew Along Day 1

Welcome! Let’s get started with the Chezvies Dotty Mini Purse Sewalong.

I will be sharing the sew along here at my blog so give me a follow by clicking the follow button on the right hand side of your screen. I will also be sharing some Youtube videos to guide your through some of the parts, but you will still need to pick up a copy of the pattern. The pattern is currently 20% off. This works out to about $4.10 American. Don’t wait because the sale is ending soon. 🙂 Here are those links. You can use either one.

Etsy Shop Link

Website Link

Did you know You can also follow along with the Sew Along and enter the raffles for a chance to win a free copy of the pattern! Just read to the bottom of this page and enter the rafflecopter. I have 3 PDF patterns to give away to my readers.

Sew Along Day 1

Strip piece the outside squares for your bag. You can choose to follow along with how I am strip piecing my denim scraps, go for solid pieces, or make up your own rules! I love when a pattern is this versatile. Your bag will be one of a kind and I can’t wait to see it!

Here is my video showing you exactly how I am strip piecing my bag.

So for today – Finish the squares for the outside of your bag.

Now sign up to win a free pattern by clicking below!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

 As always this blog contains affiliate links which is a small commission I earn when you make a purchase from my blog links. Thank you for helping to support my sewing.

 

Dotty Purse

Surprise! I made a small purse! I know I don’t share many small projects on my blog, but this is a fun one! I couldn’t resist the tester call that promised a patchwork purse. I quickly signed up, and pulled out a fat quarter bundle. I also grabbed one piece of purple print to add to the mix and draw out the hints of purple that were in the FQ. I dug deep in my zipper stash to find a matching one. I am happy to report, I had everything in my stash to make this version of the purse. I didn’t have 1/2 inch D rings or Swivel hooks to add a strap though. I kinda like this size for a bag to just throw in my work or overnight bag though so it worked out well.

This cute little big came together quickly and used a few techniques I hadn’t seen before. The zipper installation was a little mind blowing, but I will 100% use it again! With proper directions and the included photos, you won’t have any trouble with assembly.

I love the pops of colors that are everywhere. I made my own bias tape so I could use the dots. I have used polka dots for some many quilt binding so of course, I had to use it here. The sneak peek of the inside polka dots is cute as well. I couldn’t really make a purse called Dotty without polka dots, right?!?! If you prefer your top sides closed, I think you could do a simple whip stitch to close them up.

This adorable purse/tote pattern is now available. Here is a link. The pattern is currently 20% off. This works out to about $4.10 American. 🙂

Etsy Shop Link

Website Link

BONUS: I have some super exciting news! In the upcoming days, I am going to share some video sew along for making your own Dotty purse.

BONUS BONUS: I will have a couple of free patterns to give away!

Let me know what you think of my cute little zipper pouch and stay tuned to sew along with me!

RP Sew Free For Summer Tour – Pet Travel Bed Hack

The Sew Free For Summer Blog tour is winding down, but I am sharing one more pattern hack with you. I used the FREE Pillow Bed Sewing Pattern to create a Pocketed Travel Pet Bed. I am also going to walk you through inserting a zipper to create a pocket. Be sure to read all the way to the bottom to find out how you can WIN so prizes!! 

I used the same size pieces that were give in the original directions, but only cut 4 backs instead of the 8 as directed. I also cut one additional piece which becomes the zipper placket. I cut it 4 inches by the 28.5 inches. I used a heavy quilting cotton for my project. Warning there are a lot of photos coming at ya! I often need a lot of pictures to help me when I am sewing something so I tried taking them step by step.

Step 1

Stitch front pieces together at the long edges to create one long piece. You can also finish the outer edges if you like. I wish I would have just for ease of not doing it later.

Step 2

You will need the extra placket piece you cut. I serged the edge to finish one side. This can 100% be done on a sewing machine with an overcast stitch or a zig zag. You can also double turn it and hem if you prefer not to see a stitched edge. I was lucky enough to find a 28 inch zipper in my stash and the color sort of matched so I went with it! Pin the zipper WRONG SIDE down to your unfinished fabric edge. This is a large zipper. With smaller zippers (on other projects) I recommend using wash away wonder tape to hold it down. Attach your zipper foot. My foot is double sided, but most are just one skinny foot. Stitch the zipper in place with a straight stitch. I butt the edge of my foot up against the actual zipper to keep my straight line. Sew slowly and it will be even. Also notice here, I have sewn over my pin. DON’T do it! It is dangerous and I have broken pins. I wanted to show you that I pinned it in place. Sew the entire length of the zipper down.

Step 3

Next flip your zipper over the fold, press and pin, then topstitch in place using a regular foot. I like to use this open toed foot when top stitching because I can run the outside edge along the zipper teeth or the inside of the ‘toe’ along the folded edge to give me something to use as my guide for straight lines. I often increase my stitch length to 3.0 when doing this. Also I usually use a thread that either blends in or complements the colors in the project. This is the same process I use for top stitching on garments also.

Step 4

Now we will attach the zipper placket into our pillow bed. I folded my placket in half along the length of it and pressed to create a memory hem to use as my reference line. I then used that pressed line and pinned it in place along the seam line where the middle two front panels are sewn together. Your pieces will be laying right side of the placket to the wrong side of the front pieces. Pin in place then stitch along the memory line and middle seam line. I stitched from the outside, so I could stitch in the ditch.

Step 5

Time to attached the second side of our zipper. Lay your project out so that the zipper placket is folded over as you will see it from the right side of your project. This will ‘point’ you to the side where you will attach the second side of the zipper. Fold that front panel piece over to your zipper half that is installed. You will now have two front panels laying right sides together. You should now see how the pocket is coming together. Lay your zipper right sides together along the edge of the front piece. Pin in place and use the zipper foot to stitch. When sewing zippers with a larger pull you may have to raise your presser foot and zip the zipper out of the way to finish stitching in place.

Step 6

Flip and top stitch in place using regular open toed foot.

You should now have a project that resembles this… Pocket (with open edges still) on the right with two unfinished pillows on the left.

Step 7

I folded under my edges and top stitched. You could also open the zipper and fold it inside out and stitch around the edges. Then turn out again. Your choice. Be aware of your zipper. You CAN’T sew through a metal zipper! Sew up to it and stop. Then jump over the zipper and begin sewing again.

STEP 8

Ok, Let’s sew the pillow backs. You basically follow the original directions here with the exception of I just top stitched my finished edges along the seam where the pocket is. I also sewed in one of my handles at this step. The other handle goes in the original place at the opposite side of the pillows. You pocket will hang freely on the front of your travel pet.

STEP 9

You can now return to the original directions and finish your bed. TA-DA!!

IN USE

When traveling, the pocket will hold toys, leashes, and treats. When laid out, it becomes a mat to set her food bowl on.

At this point, Millie was 100% over me making her ‘stay’ and ‘sit.’ She promptly took a nap on her new bed!

Don’t forget to pick up your free pattern here

Thanks for joining me on the on the Sew Free For Summer Blog Tour!  

More Inspiration

Please visit all the stops on the Rebecca Page Sew Free for Summer Blog Tour for more great inspiration:

• Sunday May 26: Rebecca Page (intro)
• Monday May 27: The Sewing Unicorn, Stitched by Jennie
• Tuesday May 28: Jot Designs
• Wednesday May 29: bigflynotions
• Thursday 30: Liviality, Kitty Makes It
• Friday May 31: Seams Like Style, Patchwitch, Twinkle Toes and Company
• Saturday June 1: SequoiaLynn Sews, Sewista Fashionista
• Sunday June 2: Misty and Mim

Prizes

We will be giving away a pattern bundle of choice each day PLUS an overall grand prize of a $50 pattern credit. To stand a chance to win, all you have to do is comment on each blog, each day so stay tuned to the Rebecca Page Sewing group for updates from our bloggers!