64 posts categorized “DIY”

August 19, 2013

My Bathroom Inspiration

I told you last month about my awesome new Delta Faucet I picked out. Seriously, amazing. I can't wait to share with you how it works (hint: I installed it already and I'm not shy about showing everyone that walks into my house). Well, a faucet doesn't complete a room so I've created an inspiration board on Pinterest.

I wish I had a "before" photo for you of my bathroom. Just imagine a brown powder room with a pedistal sink, old mirror and outdated brass light fixture. Boring. Plain. Nothing too exciting. So I started with a little paint. A light gray/blue that looks great with the fresh white trim. Then I installed the new, amazing, faucet on a new vanity (more on that soon!). I figured if I'm going to have an incredible faucet I

should probably do a little makeover of the rest of the room.

On a budget? Consider making some DIY projects to update your bathroom!

Turn an old desk or dresser into a vanity
Paint the walls and trim
Hang baskets on the wall to store towels for guests
Make wood crates as decorative storage
Attach vases to the walls for fresh (or fake) flowers
Make hanging shelves with some rope and a couple boards
Repurpose an old ladder for decoration and storage
Make an easy magazine rack out of shutters
Make some curtains
Make a mosaic tile mirror

See my Inspired Living Board for all sorts of fun DIY projects and other fun bathroom ideas inspired by my new Touch20 Delta Faucet.

I can't wait to show you my new bathroom! It's coming along beautifully!

Thank you Delta Faucet!

Delta Touch2O Technology for your kitchen and bathroom is precisely in tune with your every touch. Take the quiz to learn which faucet style best describes you at deltafaucet.com

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Delta via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Delta.

August 19, 2013 in DIY | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

March 10, 2013

The time I made “lapkins”

I needed to make napkins for an upcoming dinner and found myself only liking one fabric out of my stash for the job. This is remarkable for two reasons. First, I have a million fabrics. Second, I have a million fabrics. Though, in my defense, most of them are knit or bottom weight so they aren't exactly napkin material. But the bummer was that this particular fabric was only 1 yard. And I needed to make six napkins.

So I cut my yard into 6 equal pieces. 12"x22". That's a pretty long rectangle. I considered cutting the yard into 9 pieces. 12"x14.66". That's a small napkin. Perhaps more of a cocktail napkin? But I didn't do it. I made the long rectangles. I used my mitered corner cloth napkin tutorial.

That's when the Lapkin was born.

It's perfect for little laps (bigger ones too). And it can fold nicely for dinner or substitute as a placemat, if you're desperate.

Continue reading “The time I made “lapkins” ” »

March 10, 2013 in 30 Minute Projects, DIY, Sewing , sewing for house, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

February 23, 2013

K.I.D.S.

I'm so honored to be a part of the current K.I.D.S series at Me Sew Crazy! It's all about having kids design their own clothes. I love it and I love the great designs they're all coming up with!

I had my oldest daughter, Naomi, design her own outfit for this challenge. Hop on over to Me Sew Crazy to see what she was making here:

She was so proud of herself. And her work was excellent! Great job, Naomi!

February 23, 2013 in DIY, Sewing | Permalink | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

February 15, 2013

February 13, 2013

Leather Bracelet Tutorials

Team members are starting to share their AMAZING bracelet tutorials they've created for She's Worth It. These bracelets are fantastic. I really like how they incorporated the words LOVE and FREEDOM. Please go say thank you to Bev from Flamingo Toes and Jess from Me Sew Crazy. These ladies are going all out!

Leather & Lace Bracelet by Flamingo Toes. A M A Z I N G.

Leather & fabric stramped bracelet by Me Sew Crazy. Blown away.

I've been updating the original She's Worth It post with all new information so don't forget to check back there! There is now a link to a great resource for how to talk to your children about human trafficking. I've also started a She's Worth It Pinterest board for She's Worth It ideas! If you make something let me know and we'll add it to the board.

We have over 50 people signed up so far. Will you consider joining us? Leave a comment or email me and I'll send you all the details!

February 13, 2013 in DIY | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

February 12, 2013

How to make a simple bracelet

If you’ve been inspired to do something for the She’s Worth It campaign but don’t know where to start here is a simple bracelet tutorial for you! Just learning about She’s Worth It? Start here.

Continue reading “How to make a simple bracelet” »

February 12, 2013 in Crafts, DIY | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

February 07, 2013

Help! I need some fabric and paint advice!

Hey, friends! I need a little design advice from you! I've got an old bench in our entry way that I'm planning to paint and make a new cushion for. Can you help me choose my fabric and paint? There is no "theme" in that area of the house so just tell me your favorites! I can't decide. They're all so great.

All these fabrics are from the Home Decor Fabric section at Sew Fine Fabric on Etsy.

A. Embrace in Tangelo Slub
B. Embrace in Yellow Slub
C. Embrace in Aquarius Slub
D. Sydney in Aquarius Slub
E. Sydney in Storm Twill
F. Aruba Feliz in Blue
G. Small Dandelion in Corn Yellow
H. Chipper in Corn Yellow
I. Ikat Domino (in Chili Pepper)

So what do you think? Which fabric, which paint? Or would you use a different color paint??

Thank you to Sew Fine Fabric for supplying the fabric for my project!

February 07, 2013 in Design & Photography, DIY, Fabric | Permalink | Comments (23) | TrackBack (0)

February 02, 2013

The world’s easiest fleece scarf tutorial

While creating a tutorial for using a rotary cutter I discovered the world's easiest way to make a fleece scarf. And cheap. Like 10 scarfs for $3.99 cheap. Find out how to make an easy fleece scarf over at Go To Sew.

Here's a sampling of the little photoshoot I did for the scarf. My favorite photoshoot this year. Probably last year too!

Continue reading “The world’s easiest fleece scarf tutorial” »

February 02, 2013 in Design & Photography, DIY | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

January 29, 2013

Easy Valentine Heart Frame tutorial

Last year I had to make a dozen valentine crafts for a party I attended. It took me forever to figure out what to make. But I finally decided to make these cute Valentine Heart Frames. With a little spraypaint, fabric scraps and a mini clothes pin you'll have a sweet fram that's perfect for teachers and friends!

Supplies:

5×7" picture frame
Spray paint (optional)
miniature clothes pin
7×9" fabric scrap for background
4×4" fabric scrap for heart
hot glue

Continue reading “Easy Valentine Heart Frame tutorial” »

January 29, 2013 in Crafts, DIY | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

January 23, 2013

Saying THANK YOU to nurses and doctors (free printable card)

My dear friend, Kara Noel's mother broke her leg before Christmas. She is still young, not yet 60. Breaking a leg should be no problem. Unfortunately,breaking a leg has been anything but no problem. Since that time she's been through a series of nightmarish health scares, surgeries and comas. She is still in the hospital, critically holding onto life. As you can imagine, it is difficult to watch a friend go through this with her mother. I can only imagine what she is going through. From having a healthy mother one moment, to one whom might not live through the day, the next. The thing about Kara Noel is that she has a HUGE heart. I repeatedly asked how I can help her (did I mention she has 4 little kids??). While her mother is in a coma hoping to make it to the top of a kidney transplant list, all she asks me for is to make something for her mom's nurses. Seriously. For the nurses. Are you crying yet???

So I made something. It wasn't much, but I made cookies. Horribly inadequate under the circumstances but that's what I did for her. Chocolate chip cookies for each of the nurses. And as I tried to figure out how to package them it hit me. They needed something else.

Continue reading “Saying THANK YOU to nurses and doctors (free printable card)” »

January 23, 2013 in DIY, printable | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

January 18, 2013

line it up clutch

Before Christmas I got a really fun present in the mail from Jessica. This foldover clutch is such a great idea. I love the magnetic snap.

Go to Me Sew Crazy for the full tutorial to make your own!

January 18, 2013 in DIY | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

January 08, 2013

Linen and leather padfolio

Have you ever made a gift that you wanted to keep? I had a really hard time taking this one to the post office. I sewed this linen and leather padfolio for Heather from The Sewing Loft for a gift exchange. She's a pen and paper gal and this padfolio sewing pattern was just the thing for a legal pad, pen and some business cards. An all around great notepad cover pattern.

Pattern: Padfolio by Rachael from Imagine Gnats

Continue reading “Linen and leather padfolio ” »

January 08, 2013 in DIY, Sewing , Sewing gifts | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

December 31, 2012

The year end post where I realize how many of these I never blogged about.

Now that we've done our Top 12 Lists it's time for a year in sewing. Well, some of it. I didn't blog a lot of it so you might see something new. And a few outtakes. Like this one. Gorgeous scenery, perfect light.

This was the first week of Project Run & Play. I loved this jumper. She never wore it again.

Week two was my favorite. It was boy week. A little known fact: that's my girl. You know which book this is from?

Valentine's Day last minute outfit for pink day at school. You can never go wrong with a simple skirt. I don't know if I blogged this or not.

I made this cute car play mat from the Sewing for Boys book. I later made the garage tutorial.

I made over my daughter's room for her 7th birthday. This is her coming home from school to find it. Find the duvet tutorial here. The wall gallery tutorial is here.

I never blogged this but I did a frame wall as well. Notice the canvas that wasn't finished.

Continue reading “The year end post where I realize how many of these I never blogged about.” »

December 31, 2012 in DIY, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Year End Wrap Up | Permalink | Comments (16) | TrackBack (0)

December 20, 2012

A cape for women?

When I first started working on sewing capes for my girls I had a few people ask if I could make one for women. I laughed a little, thinking I couldn't imagine myself in a cape. Then the cape sewing pattern for girls was a hit and it got me thinking about capes for adults again.

Then this happened.

It turns out I like capes! This one is made from wool and lined with a woven cotton.

But the hood is lined with my precious Liberty print I'm currently in love with. I also used it in the embroidery hoop sewing kit.

I wore it out in our "frigid" winter weather last night and it kept me warm. Yay for capes! The Go To Cape for Women sewing pattern is now available if you want to make one as well! You can check the website for details.

Would you wear a cape?

December 20, 2012 in DIY, Go To Cape, Go To Patterns, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for women | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

December 19, 2012

Embroidery hoop sewing kit

I made this cute little gift a while back. It's perfect for gift for anyone who sews (or is learning!). A little sewing kit in an embroidery hoop. It's also a great way to use bits of your favorite fabric. I had seen different types of embroidery hoop sewing kits online but none of them were quite what I wanted. So this embroidery hoop sewing kit was birthed. This isn't much of a tutorial but you can get an ide of how it's made just from the photos.

Continue reading “Embroidery hoop sewing kit” »

December 19, 2012 in DIY, Sewing , Sewing gifts | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

December 13, 2012

15 pajama and nightgown tutorials and patterns

One of the most popular things to sew for holiday gifts are pajamas (pyjamas if you’re down under). There are dozens of great pajama and nightgown tutorials around the web. I’ve searched through them and if you want to know how to make pajamas you’re in luck because this tutorial and pattern list is complete!

Continue reading “15 pajama and nightgown tutorials and patterns” »

December 13, 2012 in DIY, roundup | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

December 12, 2012

DIY chair back covers: a how-to tutorial

Today is a fun DIY chair back cover tutorial from Sarah of Sewing Parts Online. These are so great! I love the reverse appliqúe and the great nametag holder! What a fun idea for holiday parties. If you skip the tree they make great year round chair back covers.

Hi everyone! My name is Sarah from Sewing Parts Online and I'm so happy to be sharing with The Train to Crazy! Make your holiday dinner even more festive with these christmas tree Chair Back Covers! These are much easier to make than full chair covers and much less expensive. If you have a big family dinner, you'll really enjoy the name card holders! Make your own name cards with decorative paper and rub-on calligraphy. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I did!

Continue reading “DIY chair back covers: a how-to tutorial” »

December 12, 2012 in Christmas, DIY, Sewing , sewing for house | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

December 10, 2012

Go To Shift Dress

Now available in the shop! Thanks for the great reaction to this dress! The Go To Shift Dress for girls is a quick, easy dress that still has a lot of style. A wonderful sewing pattern for beginners as well! This girls dress sewing pattern comes in sizes 12 mo—12 yrs. It is a shapeless dress. Perfect for wearing plain or adding a belt.

(I love this behind the scenes shot)

I love a large button!

December 10, 2012 in DIY, Go To Patterns, Go To Shift Dress, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

Go To Signature Dress Roundup

Last summer when the Go To Signature Dress sewing pattern was first released there were 14 bloggers who helped me get the word out about the pattern. Without them, the dress certainly wouldn't have been as big of a hit as it has been. THANK YOU ladies! Because of you we were able to quickly donate the first $1,000 procedes to a charity project my kids worked on for a year. I'm so happy to report that they just donated $5,100 to World Vision to buy a home for an orphan family. So thank you to everyone who bought their ornaments (the website they ran is no longer available) and purchased a pattern in that first month!

THANK YOU!

Before the year ended I wanted to make sure you all saw those fantastic tunics, dresses and maxi dresses that were made during that series.

Check out all the wonderful dresses:

Continue reading “Go To Signature Dress Roundup” »

December 10, 2012 in DIY, Go To Patterns, Go To Signature Dress, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

December 07, 2012

A Very Go To Christmas: Pea Coats

Wrapping up A Very Go To Christmas is Delia from Delia Creates. Delia is simply amazing at everything. She makes beautiful things and her photography is fantastic. She made the Oliver & Olivia Pea Coat sewing pattern by Peekaboo Pattern Shop. She didn't make just one. She made THREE.

They are so darn cute! Go check them out and take a look around her blog!

That's it for A Very Go To Christmas series! Thanks everyone!

December 07, 2012 in A Very Go To Christmas, DIY, Home & Fashion | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Knockoff fashion for children

I'm so excited to be over at Elegance & Elephants today sharing a knockoff outfit! I chose a fun outfit off my STYLE: kids pinterest board.

Head over to check it out! Psst. There may be a free pattern involved!

I found these suitcases at an antique store. I don't take my kids into antique stores usually (oh the things that can go wrong!) but I'm glad I did this time! They were hidden under a clothing rack and I just happened to see a bit of bright pink peaking out. I think I'll put them in every photo from now on.

December 07, 2012 in DIY, Go To Patterns, Go To Shift Dress, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

A Very Go To Christmas: Maxwell Shirt

I'm so excited that Stacey from Boy Oh Boy Oh Boy Crafts joined this series! She sewed the Maxwell Shirt by Shwin Designs. I love the details of this shirt pattern for boys. (Though I think it would be cute on a girl too!)

And while you're checking out the Maxwell shirt, check out the series all about making toys for boys. It's so great.

December 07, 2012 in A Very Go To Christmas, DIY, Home & Fashion, Sewing for boys | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

December 03, 2012

A Very Go To Christmas: Dragon & Rhino Stuffed Animals

Every child loves stuffed animals. I, personally, have had a lot of fun sewing some for my kids. There is something extra special about a homemade stuffie (or fluffy or whatever you call them!). Amy from Naptime Crafters & Peekaboo Pattern Shop is sharing the adorable dragon and rhinoceros stuffed animals she made from DIY Fluffies patterns.

Continue reading “A Very Go To Christmas: Dragon & Rhino Stuffed Animals” »

December 03, 2012 in A Very Go To Christmas, DIY, Sewing , Sewing for baby, Sewing for boys, Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

A Very Go To Christmas: Billy Car Roll Up Car Mat

A Very Go To Christmas continues this week with a super fun gift for little boys & girls that love cars. This Billy Car Play Mat and Roll Up was sewn by the über talented Jessica of A Little Gray. Her blog never ceases to amaze me. Her attention to detail is phenomenal. I can't wait to go see the whole thing!

Continue reading “A Very Go To Christmas: Billy Car Roll Up Car Mat” »

December 03, 2012 in A Very Go To Christmas, DIY, Go To Patterns, Sewing for boys, Sewing gifts | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

December 01, 2012

20 easy DIY gifts for women ($10 and less)

Need to make a gift for a girlfriend, mother, daughter, sister or neighbor quickly? I've rounded up 20 easy gifts for women you can make quickly and cheaply with these easy DIY tutorials. All for under $10!

Continue reading “20 easy DIY gifts for women ($10 and less)” »

December 01, 2012 in DIY, roundup, Sewing , Sewing for women, Sewing gifts | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

A Very Go To Christmas: Mary Jane Oversized Tote

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling SO overwhelmed by how amazing all the items in A Very Go To Christmas series have been so far. The skinny jeans, the ruffled dress and the sweetheart dress were amazing. Today the ever fabulous Miranda from One Little Minute is sharing her review for the Mary Jane Oversized Tote bag sewing pattern from Handmade Therapy.

I'm not southern but this feels right.

Ya'll… the STRIPES! This striped tote bag is perfect for picnics!

Continue reading “A Very Go To Christmas: Mary Jane Oversized Tote” »

December 01, 2012 in A Very Go To Christmas, DIY | Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0)

November 27, 2012

a sweet little linen cape

Last week I bought a bunch of linen (not here). It inspired me to make this simple, natural cape for my oldest daughter.

Continue reading “a sweet little linen cape” »

November 27, 2012 in DIY, Go To Cape, Go To Patterns, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (15) | TrackBack (0)

November 26, 2012

New fabric

My fabric shopping last week still has me excited. I'm happy to live near fantastic fabric stores in Los Angeles and smaller fabric stores in Orange County. I never went fabric shopping when I lived in NYC so I've got nothing to really compare it to but it sure is fun.

I posted this photo on instagram of the freshly washed entangled mess and it nearly had the most likes I've ever had. So I know you're just as excited as I am.

Don't ask who made any of it because discounters can't leave the selvage on. I guess. They always seem to be cut off. I did the math on this bunch. This ended up being around $2.50/yard. Not too shabby. I'm hoping to use most of it in the coming weeks as I'm getting a few new patterns ready. After the leggings and gift bags coming out back to back I'm feeling the pressure for weekly pattern releases. I'm not sure that will be happening but I do have 5 patterns partially complete right now. Any guesses about what's next?

And a parting thought:

November 26, 2012 in DIY, Fabric, Fabric Shopping SoCal | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

November 20, 2012

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SEWING: FREE MOTION CHRISTMAS TEA TOWEL

Finally back to the Christmas sewing! I shared this sketchy Christmas tea towel over at Skip to My Lou earlier this month. It was such a fun project. I know free motion sewing scares many of you but don’t let it! This free motion tea towel tutorial will help you overcome your fears.

I enjoy sketching with a sewing machine. I like the careful messy look. Of course you could sketch from your head but I prefer to have a pattern to follow. Feel free to copy this one.I started by using a water soluble fabric marker to draw my swirly tree.

Continue reading “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SEWING: FREE MOTION CHRISTMAS TEA TOWEL” »

November 20, 2012 in 12 Days of Christmas Sewing, Christmas, DIY, Sewing , Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

November 19, 2012

Making gifts extra special

Sometimes a gift is just a gift. But most the time it is not.

That's why I designed the fabric gift bag. Cute, functional, reusable (green!) and it says more than, "I just picked up this $3 rainbow bag because that's what they sell at Target."

Make a fabric gift bag.

The new Go To Gift Bags pattern comes with full digital pattern pieces for 3 different sized gift bags, a wine bottle bag and a felt gift card wallet.

Continue reading “Making gifts extra special” »

November 19, 2012 in DIY, Go To Gift Bags, Go To Patterns, Sewing , Sewing gifts | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

November 15, 2012

Fabric Shopping: SAS Fabrics Los Angeles

I went shopping with This Mama Makes Stuff the other day. She's a great fabric shopping partner. I think it's always best to shop with another hoarder.

We went to SAS in Los Angeles. I'd never been there before. It isn't downtown in the fabric district but it's discount. They sell by the pound, which seems more fun to me. If you're looking for discount fabric in Southern California, I recommend stopping here. It's a sewing lover's delight.

SAS Los Angeles has tons of trim. There are rows and rows of lace, buttons, elastic, bias tape (which I forgot to get) and boxes of trim like bulk sequins and zippers. And the fabric. Oh the fabric. There's a good selection of knits, which I love. Lots of random cottons and rayons. Not a lot in the way of quilting fabric.

Continue reading “Fabric Shopping: SAS Fabrics Los Angeles” »

November 15, 2012 in DIY, Fabric Shopping SoCal | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

November 12, 2012

Go To Leggings released! Giveaway Alert! (closed)

My Go To Leggings™ sewing pattern is finally available for you! I'm so excited about this pattern. I've tried leggings sewing patterns before and never been very happy with the fit. I think these fit well and the way these are put together makes them quick and professional.

Once you get the hang of these you'll never buy leggings again. I've made about 12 pairs and they now take me about 25 minutes start to finish. So worth it!

The Go To Leggings™ sewing pattern comes with full pattern and instructions for girls' leggings sizes 12 months through 12 years. In true Go To Patterns™ style you can choose from four lengths— shorts, capri, full length, and extra long ruched. PLUS there is a bonus skirt pattern and so many different options! Add an attached skirt, a peek-a-boo hole, pocket, elastic ruching or some bows! Complete your first pair in an hour!

I shared with some friends the other day that I think I've worn my kids out when it comes to taking photos. They like to wiggle and make funny faces and never seem to keep their arms down. Thankfully I was able to get a handful of fun pictures though. A special thanks to my girls and our friend who joined us for these photos!

I'm giving away a copy to 4 lucky winners! Please use the rafflecopter below to enter. This contest will be open until November 13th and is available to all world citizens.

This contest is closed. See winners below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 12, 2012 in DIY, Go To Leggings | Permalink | Comments (68) | TrackBack (0)

November 01, 2012

12 Days of Christmas Sewing: Easy Merry Pillow

It's November and I'm kicking off the 12 Days of Christmas Sewing series with an easy DIY merry pillow cover tutorial! This cute christmas tree pillow tutorial is so quick you can have one of your own in 30 minutes.

This simple merry christmas pillow will look great anywhere!

Continue reading “12 Days of Christmas Sewing: Easy Merry Pillow” »

November 01, 2012 in 12 Days of Christmas Sewing, 30 Minute Projects, Christmas, DIY, Sewing , sewing for house | Permalink | Comments (18) | TrackBack (0)

I mastered this Halloween

I planned too many halloween projects this year. And finished every single one.

One complete Incredibles costume (with an iron on FAIL)
Two mermaids complete with capelets
One White Witch dress and cape

The White Witch (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) dress and cape were self drafted. The white fabric was some free swag from JoAnns from the GNO a few weeks ago. The cape is just fleece. She loved it. Nobody knew what she was but that's ok.

I was super excited to draft the collars on both the dress and the cape. Thanks to a little lesson from Carrie I think I nailed them!

I'm particularly in love with the mermaid costumes. The skirt is self drafted, as are the capelets. One capelet has a collar. The other doesn't. All fabric was from JoAnns. The leotard was a pattern from one of the big 4. I don't recommend it though. I had to alter it a ton to make it fit a regular sized child. If my kids were about 20 lbs heavier they might have fit well.

And it's a good thing those are leotards because that's one large slit up the back I made. Yowza! At least they could still run!

Yes, the fins are quilted. That's my favorite.

Photo bomb by Jack Jack. I love his costume too. The pants are pieced. They're pretty much jammies. I used my new leggings pattern to make them and self drafted the shirt.

He adores the Incredibles but thought this was the worst outfit ever when I put it on him. He tried to get it off for 15 minutes then caved. One point for mom.

November 01, 2012 in DIY, My Family, Sewing , Sewing for boys, Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

October 29, 2012

Quick Bandana Skirt tutorial

Need a quick project? This easy bandana skirt tutorial is about as quick as they get! I needed to make an outfit for a western wear day for my kids and this bandana skirt fit the bill. Full instructions for how to make this easy bandana skirt below.

Continue reading “Quick Bandana Skirt tutorial” »

October 29, 2012 in DIY, Sewing , Sewing for Girls, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

October 21, 2012

Handmade Costumes: 65 DIY Tutorials

Thank you SO much to all my contributors during this year's Handmade Costume Series!! There were so many fantastic dress up and halloween costumes! I loved them all! I've added all of this year's tutorials along with last year's tutorials so they are all in one place and easy to search! If you ever need instructions on how to make a costume here's an exhaustive list of all the tutorials you'll ever need! This round up is complete! There are plenty of sewing and no-sew costumes for everyone. Which was your favorite??

P.S. Don't forget to enter the current giveaway for a doll carrier & doll carrier pattern!

October 21, 2012 in DIY, handmade dress up series, roundup, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

October 16, 2012

Birthday party favor FAIL and win

I asked on facebook and instagram yesterday what your suggestions were for good birthday party favors. You know, the good kind that doesn't include junk you don't want and your kids won't use.

I love the idea of favors that are inexpensive and yet useful and appreciated. So we decided to make some homemade Gak while we waited for our cupcakes to come out of the oven.

We used this recipe and I'm not sure what we did wrong but it was a huge FAIL. It hardened so quickly the starch wouldn't mix in with the glue any longer and all I had was like stiff gum floating in blue water.

So we made some play dough instead.

We put them in little plastic containers and added a label to the lid for fun. Voila. A favor that is useful and appreciated yet doesn't stick around long to clutter your house.

Continue reading “Birthday party favor FAIL and win” »

October 16, 2012 in Crafting with Kids, DIY, My Family | Permalink | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

October 12, 2012

KCWC Day 5

I'm enjoying Sewing Summit right now so I made these ahead but thought I'd show you a couple more outfits I made this last week.

All of these skirt/legging combos are from the new Go To Leggings pattern soon to be released.

The tank top on the left was self drafted. The tops on the middle outfit are store bought. Outfit on the right was blogged here.

I'll be back next week to tell you all about Sewing Summit!

October 12, 2012 in DIY, Go To Leggings, Go To Patterns, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

October 11, 2012

Jazz Up your leggings tutorial

I'm over at the Southern Institute today showing you a fun way to "Jazz Up Leggings". Stop on by!

October 11, 2012 in DIY, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

October 10, 2012

Day Three: KCWC

Once again I'm making samples for my Kids Clothes Week Challenge. Today we've got a Go To Signature Dress (in the tunic length) paired with some Go To Leggings.

Yes, that skirt is part of the leggings.

I told you this was a "Go To" leggings pattern! These leggings are cropped length. Clearly. There are 4 lengths included in the pattern.

And my favorite feature of this particular version of the Go To Leggings:

October 10, 2012 in DIY, Go To Leggings, Go To Signature Dress, Home & Fashion, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

October 09, 2012

Day Two: Kids Clothes Week Challenge

Day two: refashioned shirt drafted with an altered Go To Signature Dress pattern and some more Go To Leggings.

I've been having a lot of fun making leggings lately. I can't wait to show you more features of the pattern!

October 09, 2012 in DIY, Go To Leggings, Go To Patterns, Go To Signature Dress, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

October 08, 2012

Day 1 KCWC: Lucy Tunic & Leggings

I'm joining in with the Kids Clothes Week Challenge over at Elsie Marley. I dug into the stash to make this Lucy Tunic top and Jeggings. I used this plaid cord for a messenger bag last Christmas and had never used it again. When I purchased this fabric I had intentions of using it for a front button up dress. I never made that dress but I think the Lucy Tunic is perfect for thie print.

I was lazy while sewing the buttons on and didn't bother to check where the pattern says to put them so they're a bit low bt this top still functions perfectly.

I lined the top with a hot pink fabric. I decided not to make it reversible by putting buttons on both sides because I don't want to see a hot pink tunic walking around my house.

The leggings are one of the many, many pairs I've been making lately. This fabric was also from JoAnn's but I bought it more recently so you can probably still find it. It is very soft and comfortable.

My new Go To Leggings pattern will be out soon! You can count on lots of fun options.

October 08, 2012 in DIY, Go To Leggings, Go To Patterns, Go To Signature Dress, Sewing , Sewing for Girls | Permalink | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

September 09, 2012

Great online fabric store: Fabric Tree

If you are looking for a great online fabric store and want to support small business, consider checking out the Fabric Tree! This new online fabric store carries tons of Riley Blake and Michael Miller fabrics that you'll love!

I love the chevron fabrics from Riley Blake that are out now. The Fabric Tree has a HUGE selection!! Even fat quarter packs.

And if you're getting ready to start sewing for the holidays, consider this Santa's Workshop jelly roll!

So the next time you need some fabric, support a small shop like Fabric Tree!

Thanks to the Fabric Tree for sponsoring The Train To Crazy!

September 09, 2012 in DIY | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

August 22, 2012

Ribbon Pick-Up Skirt Tutorial

Today I'm sharing another fabulous, fun skirt tutorial. This DIY skirt is great for the 10 and under crowd. With an elastic waist it is also wonderful for beginning sewists! I love the ribbon pick-ups and hope you do to! Easy, fun, cute. What more could you want in a little girl's skirt tutorial?

I love sewing and have a special place in my heart for skirts. When I first taught myself to sew clothes I started with skirts. You can see my first skirt tutorial, The Simple Skirt Tutorial. Why does 2008 feel like a generation ago in blogland?? After that I made the Drop Waist Skirt Tutorial and the Ruffle Skirt Tutorial. All of these skirts are perfect for beginners. And this Insa Skirt pattern review is also worth checking out! I love how "fancy" it is. Perfect for any girly girl.

Now back to the skirt at hand!

Supplies:

Ribbon— 2-4 yards
Fabric— 2 types of fabric. Amount depends on length of skirt. See below.
3/4" non roll elastic— See amount below.
Coordinating thread

Continue reading “Ribbon Pick-Up Skirt Tutorial” »

August 22, 2012 in DIY, Home & Fashion | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

August 14, 2012

Teaching sewing

My girls have always been fascinated with sewing. They began begging to learn at an early age. Not a surprise, of course! Now they love it so much I want my machine back! Teaching litle kids isn't as daunting as it seems!

First teach safety. Yada yada.

Next teach how to raise and lower the foot, backstitch, press the foot pedal, etc.

Finally, give him or her a scrap and let them scribble sew. Easy!

I don't see the point in restraining their creativity while they are young. They don't need to think sewing has to be a certain way with straight lines and perfect corners. In fact, they'll probably surprise you by what they come up with!

This is a typical scene from my sewing machine. My 3 oldest and the neighbor girl. All taking turns digging through scraps and sewing masterpieces.

Continue reading “Teaching sewing” »

August 14, 2012 in DIY, My Family, Sewing , sewing tips & tricks | Permalink | Comments (13) | TrackBack (0)

August 13, 2012

Boy’s Hipster Appliqué Tutorial

Today I'm sharing a fun project for adding a bit of edge to a regular boy's button down shirt. I call it the "hipster appliqué". I love the little bit of edge it gives a plain shirt. Just a little something fun to liven up a boy's wardrobe.

All you need is a button down shirt, an old t-shirt with a fun pattern on it, and a little double sided fusible web from your local fabric or craft store. I like Steam-A-Seam Lite but use whatever brand you prefer.

Continue reading “Boy’s Hipster Appliqué Tutorial” »

August 13, 2012 in 30 Minute Projects, DIY, Sewing for boys, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

August 06, 2012

Gathered Sunglasses Case Tutorial

I recently made a gathered duvet cover and had a bunch of leftover fabric. Using the duvet as inspiration I decided to make sunglasses cases. I love the way they turned out!

First cut your fabric. For the front you’ll need a 6.5″x4.75″ piece of cotton batting and a 10″x6.5″ piece of quilting cotton.

For the back cut a 20″x4.75″ piece of fabric and cut the batting 10.5″x4.75″.

For the lining cut a piece of quilting cotton 16.25″ by 4.75″

You’ll also need a hair elastic and large button.

STEP 1: Gather the front and back pieces of fabric so that they are gathered on the top and bottom of the fabric. The front piece will be gathered as below. The back piece will be gathered so it is now 10.5″ by 4.75″

STEP 2: Baste the front and back pieces to their corresponding batting piece, right side out.

STEP 3: Stitch the hair elastic to the top of the sun glasses case. See photo for location. Make sure you use a small zig zag and stitch across many times. (see photo) Sew button into middle front of front piece.

STEP 4: Stack front and pack pieces together, right sides facing. Sew along sides and bottom ede with a 3/8″ seam allowance. Fold and sew the lining piece. Leave an opening in the side of the lining for turning later.

STEP 5: Stuff the lining and outside together, right sides facing. Pin so that side seams match up. Sew around the opening edges. Make sure not to sew that top opening closed!

STEP 6: Begin to turn right side out. Sew up turning hole.

And you’re done! Voila!

What do you think??

August 06, 2012 in DIY, Sewing , Sewing for women, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

August 01, 2012

Faux Wrap Shorts Tutorial

I shared this tutorial for the Shorts on the Line series in July at Imagine Gnats. I love sewing shorts. So quick and fun and they get worn a lot! Today I'm sharing a fun tutorial for making Faux Wrap Shorts for girls (or women if you love them that much). A fun DIY for any level of experience. This shorts tutorial has a cute ruffle wrap front that I know your little girl will love.

Cute right? With a little fabric, a pair of shorts that fit well, some 3/4" elastic and a couple hours you can make these too!

Continue reading “Faux Wrap Shorts Tutorial” »

August 01, 2012 in DIY, Sewing , Sewing for Girls, Tutorials | Permalink | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0)

July 31, 2012

Where has the summer gone?

I don't know about you but I feel like the summer has slipped between my fingers. How is tomorrow August already? It's not that I haven't been busy with pattern tours, guest blogging, more guest blogging, and still more and more. Or launching a pattern company. But really, where did it all go??

I'm still keeping busy. I've been working on my next pattern. If you folow along on instagram you've seen a few shots. I'll give you a peek too.

Continue reading “Where has the summer gone?” »

July 31, 2012 in Design & Photography, DIY, Fashion, Go To Patterns, Home & Fashion | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

July 03, 2012

Best Online Knit Fabric Sources

One of the most common questions I get currently is "Where can I buy good knit fabric online?" Fortunately for you I know many of the best places to buy knit fabric!

Ixat—Tons of print knits you won't find anywhere else. Shipping is a bit high but she ships worldwide so perhaps it is cheaper to your part of the world.

Fabric.com— Wide variety of cotton and synthetic knits. You can find the new designer knits here.

The Fabric Fairy— Great variety including fun prints for kids. Ships from the U.S. worldwide.

Fashion Fabrics Club— Lots of knit fabrics in adult prints. I've never purchased from here but it has been recommended. They ship from the U.S. to a short list of other countries.

Chez Ami— Great quality knits. Fun prints and stripes for children. I've purchased many fabrics from here and they stand the test of time. U.S. based but ship internationally.

Girl Charlie Fabrics— Loads of great knits for kids and adults. Very large section of cotton knit jersey. Ships from the U.S. internationally.

Harts Fabrics— Great selection of adult knit fashion fabrics. Ships from the U.S. to Canada, U.K. and Australia and U.S. Armed Forces.

Etsy— There are numerous shops selling all types of knit fabrics on etsy. Just do a search for knit fabric and you'll have thousands of options from shops around the world.

Spoonflower— Create your own fabric or buy one someone else designed. So many fun designs here.

Reader Suggestions:

Banburry Place— Ships from the U.S.

Kids Fabric— Ships from Canada

Sewzanne's— Ships from the U.S. This is where I buy my Ottobre magazines too.

Sew Baby— Ships from the U.S.

Nature's Fabric— Ships from the U.S.

Print Knit Studio— Ships from the U.S.

So tell me, where do you buy knit fabrics? Especially those of you outside the U.S. Now that you know where to buy knit fabric go pick up your Go To Signature Dress pattern!

July 03, 2012 in DIY, I recommend, roundup, Sewing , Tips & Tricks | Permalink | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0)

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