a super cool serger tip

Here's an easy way to keep your serger seams from fraying or unraveling. Whether you're sewing with knit fabric and want to leave the bottom un-hemmed, or just finishing some seams on some woven cotton, this will work for both scenarios.First, you'll need to make sure to leave a few inches of extra thread when you finish a seam. Then thread a large … [Read more...]

a bit random…

Just wanted to pop in today and share a few quick pics! I finished Charlotte's quilt top! WOohoo! So here's a sneaky peek. This was a beast. Each block took about 15-20 minutes (I timed them yes-I'm-a-nerd), so the blocks themselves took me 9-11 hours of back-breaking sewing. Ok maybe that's a little dramatic. But each little square is 2.5 inches, … [Read more...]

some new raglan tees

Sadie has been needing some new tees, so I set out to make her some the other day. These are so quick to whip up, especially with a serger! (also, look out for a post about a cool tip regarding sergers in the next week!) I use my raglan tee tutorial, and used both ribbed knit for the collar/sleeves, and regular jersery knit fabric as well. Both … [Read more...]

new church bags

I decided the other week to make new church bags for the girls. New year, new bags, right? Just go along with it...I really just wanted an excuse to use this gorgeous Echino fabric! A fat quarter was just enough to make these kid sized totes. (not including the lining of course) I also got a huge kick out of using such brightly colored fabrics....I … [Read more...]

Easy crochet bow tutorial/pattern

  First things first...I am no crocheting expert. Far from it! I'm definitely a beginner, so if I can make these little bows, so can you. Basically, get ready for a meellion pictures about how to make these. Cause, dang, aren't they cute? Glue a clip on them and attach it to the nearest kiddo and tada! Instant adorableness and cute-osity. They … [Read more...]

a hat and an ornament (christmas gifts)

You saw the other part of my handmade gift for my sister and her hubby this year already...but hello. I had to make them more than one! I don't run a crafty blog for nuthin'.....I LIVE for this stuff. The hat was actually kind of an accidental gift. My father in law had requested one after he saw this book (that I have a project in!) around the … [Read more...]

Lotta Geranium dress

Well I knew I'd be making another Geranium dress soon, since the last one turned out so cute! I started cutting this one out last week and totally messed up laying out my pieces. (this is why I shouldn't be allowed to sew after 9 pm...so pathetic) So I ordered another yard because I just HAD to make it work. I mean, hello this fabric is probably … [Read more...]

little blue bear hat

Ok, I know I've become a bit of an Oliver and S groupie....I swear I'm not a paid advertiser for them (though I would totally take that gig!)....I just am totally in love with their patterns! I've also rarely sewn things from the sewing books I do have, so the fact that this one has so many patterns I want to try is making me go a little nuts! … [Read more...]

Ava’s Geranium dress

So the other week, Rae emailed me to see if I'd be willing to help test her new pattern....and we all know that when Rae says "sew" you say "yes". ;) She needed a tester for the 0-3 month size and I quickly jumped on board....how sweet did this dress turn out? I adore it in so many ways. For one thing, it came together so, so quickly. (love small … [Read more...]

the girls’ Christmas dresses

So here are the girls Christmas dresses this year! I'm a little late showing you all, but better late than never! I went with a blue and red theme after consulting with my Instagram pals (my username is craftinessisnotoptional if you want to follow me!), and I love how they turned out! A little classic, a little funky, and a little teeny tiny. … [Read more...]