Breaking Back Into Reality

It has been some time since my last posting.  I have been away on a vacation that lasted longer then intended.  It was wonderful, but now we are back to reality around here.  One of the parts of getting back to normal is getting back to healthy.  Today I am trying a green power smoothie recipe that comes from the blog Oh She Glows.  It is a protein packed drink that goes down pretty easy.  Great for a post run recovery drink.  Also this mean healthy eats which is being inspired by spring finally arriving. 

I plan on getting back to my crafty place soon.  We came home to a broken dryer and that has put a ding in some plans.  However, that misfortune is almost under control.  I have a finished project or two to report and I got a fun idea while away. Life should be shaping up and back on track. Can't wait to share!

Dress For Spring Break And Beyond

Things have been a bit of a whirlwind around here.  We are in our last week before spring break. Time to kick those sewing projects into high gear!  I finally finished one dress from the book Happy Homemade ( for an awesome review go HERE ).

  There is quite a bit of prep work that goes into these patterns.  I do think it is worth the extra effort to make sure you get a good fit.  This particular pattern was cut BIG, so I went down almost two sizes then I would normally use for a sewing pattern. It saved a huge headache by doing some calculations ahead of time.

   This is the finished product! I like it.  I used a linen blend material.  It has a very nice drape and it is going to be very comfortable for the hot weather ahead.  The pleat and the belt may not be friends. I think I am going to play around with this look.

This is the intended look.  It is so comfortable. 

 I did have to rework the neck line. The first attempt I did something wonky and it would not lay flat.  After much seam ripping and a couple of choice words, it finally lays nice.  The pattern came together pretty easily.  I used a serger for the inside seams to help control the fraying of the material. That frey thing can be very messy!

   Close up of the pleat. I think it adds a little interest to the finished piece.  In a solid color, it can be a little boring.

  The pocket is scrap material that I am trying to use up.  I like the contrast against the solid color.  Pockets are such a plus!  I think with some cute accessories and shoes this dress will be very fun.  It is a break from my usual, black and grey pieces in the wardrobe.

  I also just finished up a dress using the book Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross.  I love how the dress turned out.  Hope to have that project up on the ol' blog later this week.

The Knit Skirt Lives!

  Happy Friday!!  I finally have pictures of the spring skirt.  While we continue to have winter like weather, the sunshine has brought out a positive attitude about warmer weather.  Before you continue on reading, please forgive the quality of the photos.  These were done in a hurry on the camera phone.  Not my favorite, but it works in a pinch. 

 
 This project was super simple.  I used a skirt that I already own and love.  Luckily that skirt is a knit also, which makes the "Give" factor easy to determine.  I traced the skirt adding just under an inch to the tracing.  The waistband is a yoga style.  For that, I used a piece from an existing pattern.  You may notice that the waistband is a different color.  I ran out of material to cut the original band, and wound up using an old t-shirt.  Yup, an accidental repurpose project. 

 I used my handy dandy surger on this project.  This means everything just zips right up.  I can see a couple of these lovelies being made.

Please avert your eyes from the pale pale legs! Us northers have yet to get out of hibernation.

  Right now on the sewing machine I have a dress in the works.  I have had a bit of an issue with the neckline and there is some ripping out going on.  While I am happy overall, I am not going to settle for a so-so fit on the neck.  The goal over the weekend is to get that finished and begin a shirt.  Spring break is only 2 weeks away.  I have to hustle along to make my goal. 

  Happy weekend!!!!

And Now It's Time For A Refashion

  My knit skirt is finished, I love it.  However, it continues to be all cold and snowy like outdoors.  Right now pictures in the skirt are not happening.  I do have a new finished project that I will share with you.  I love a good refashion or repurpose of old clothing.  It is usually very quick and very easy.  One girls Goodwill donation is another girls refashion.

So shapeless!

 This dress, tunic, shirt?? was wwwaayyyy to big, but it was in fantastic condition and it seemed oh so comfortable.  It is made of a lightweight cotton.  (Maybe I am feeling a little nostalgic for the 90's. Could be all those rock docs I have been watching on Netflix recently?) 

Love the contrast inside print.  Doesn't that look so cozy?

 I threw my project on the dress formed and pinned away.  I think I look in about 3.5 inches on each side of the dress and then stitched the button front down.  I am not a fan of buttons popping open or that annoying gap you can sometimes get. 

The 90's are alive in Portland Michigan.

TA- DAH!  All done within a matter of an hours work or so.  I love this dress.  If I am feeling particularly lazy I take the belt off and just let it go all tentish.  Nice for at night when you are vegging out (watching more rock docs) with the Mr.

 I promise dear reader to get my skirt project up soon.  I am most hopeful that spring is on the way. With this setback of weather, I thought I would crazy if I put on my same ol' winter sweaters. This project was just what I needed while waiting for a warm up!

Hemlock Tee

   Hurrah!!  One piece of spring clothing all sewn up and ready to rock!   This is by far one of my most favorite tee shirt patterns.  The Hemlock Tee by Grainline Studio's is brilliant.  This pattern is simple and can easily be altered to suit any needs. It is an over-sized shirt, which is perfect for lightweight material with a flowy feeling. (yeah, that is the technical term....flowy).
  I

A little better view of neckline and short sleeves.

 This material was kind of pain to work with. You had to be careful with all aspects when working with it.  The material wanted to curl and it was a bit on the slippery side.  Cutting, pinning and trying to get a decently straight line were very tricky, but it is worth it. Patience is the key (at least that was what I kept trying to tell myself.)

It is very helpful to have a serger when dealing with tricky material.

  I am so very happy with the finished product! It is ridiculously comfortable.  I can already tell I will making more of these.  This is Hemlock #2.  They are great for layering or standing on their own.  The pattern comes with sleeves, so you can make this pattern in the colder months.  We are thinking warm weather here, so no more long sleeves!  You can add a pocket, play with the hem, so much versatility to be had. 

 I am almost finished with my spring skirt.  I just have to finish up the hem and then that one is ready to go! I had to get a little creative with the waistband, but I think it turned out okay.  Stay tuned to see the results. 

It Can't Be This Cold Forever......Right??

  Dear Old Man Winter,  our relationship needs a break.  A spring break, to be more precise.  In a few weeks time we will be heading for palm trees, beaches, sunshine, and drinks with tiny umbrella's in them.  In my day dreams of warm weather, I also dream of warm weather clothing. This lead to trips to the fabric store, which lead to fabric purchases, which now leads me to think I may have gotten a bit ambitious.  I would love to try and sew some new clothing for spring break.  While my color choices are nowhere near bright and tropical, the material is light and airy.  Linens, lightweight cotton, and light knits are what you are looking at dear reader.

    I am going to take this one fabric at a time and see how far I get.  I think I have plenty of time, but also things get pretty busy around here once March hits.  My first thought is to go with something I know and love.  The Hemlock Tee from Grainline Studios is a great pattern for knits. I have already used this pattern and have had great success.  I keep the sleeves short and lengthen it just a little.  I am on the tall side at 5'9".  I think the semi-sheer stripe fabric will be a great choice.  It will allow room for tank tops underneath and will give a nice flow with the material. The other knit is the solid grey.  That is going to be a skirt, however I have not yet decided on what look I want.  Something comfortable for sure!

So, now that I have a place to start, it is time to sewing.   While tomorrow may snow, I'll think of the sun.  Be well and craft on!!

The Closing Ceremony

Please excuse the bad picture, I know I look a little orange.

   I am coming to the party a little late. I missed the deadline for finished projects during the Olypmic games. Which of course was the goal.  Today, the only thing that remained was the binding off.  With a little time this afternoon, I was able to complete all tasks and have a functioning and fantastic cowl.  Huzzah for finished projects!!

 The cowl pattern was lots of fun. The constant having to change up the yarn made for an engaging knit.  I like all the different options the pattern gives you. If you did not catch my last post on the Ravellenic games, the pattern is Inspira Cowl and can be found on Ravelry.  

  The original pattern is for a very large cowl.  I scaled mine back a bit and was able to use one skein of yarn for each color.  The variegated yarn is Liberty Wool and plain gray is Cascade 220 Superwash.  The combination of yarns are very soft and warm.  I like the pop of the yellow and the subtle of the greys. This was a nice way to work in some bright colors, while I also think this works well for a very neutral palette.

   Next on list is to finish up another knit in progress and also start my spring sewing.  I think I may have been a bit overzealous at thinking I could sew my spring break wardrobe.  Stay tuned for that update!

Knit And Ski, But Not At The Same Time!

 
  Knitting work continues on as the Olympics are still going strong.  The games, this year, have been full of surprises and so has my knitting project.  For some reason, in my head, the colors were going to turn out one way, but reality is another thing.  It is all good, I like what I see.  That is how life is, it may not turn out how you like it, but then you may actually enjoy what is in front of you.  It are these little philosophizes that make knitting an even more enjoyable experience.   Speaking of experiences.....

 I have not been cross country skiing in YEARS!!  This past weekend was the perfect time to get out and play.  The trails were fantastic.  Some challenging hills, and some beautiful scenery.  While I am not ready for the biathlon, it was a great work out and many laughs and enjoyable moments were had.  I am realizing it is the end of February and spring is coming. The body is starting to really crave things like fresh air. (must be cabin fever) My brain has turned to thoughts of warm weather projects.  That, however, is a different post.

 

Cabin Fever

 Cold and snow continues to be a major part of life around these parts.  No longer could we sit inside and watch the world go by.  It was time to get out and play.  Time explore our great lake and see what life was like on the outside.

   Walking out onto the frozen lake was an an adventure on its own. There was lots of slipping and sliding on our walk.  The blue colors of the ice were incredible.  It felt good to breath in the fresh air.  Sometimes in really is the little things that make a big difference.
 

 I hope that where ever you are, you are able to get out and explore.  Breath deep and take a moment for yourself.

Let The Knitting Games Begin

   Let the knitting games begin!  Yes, I have a sweater on the needles, but it is almost finished. The wonderful knitting site Ravelry has announced it is holding The Ravellenic Winter Games 2014.  What is this crazy and knit-tastic thing you might be wondering?  Well, dear reader, it is a challenge to start and finish one or more projects during the winter games.  People from all over the world are participating and it is very exciting to see what is being created. The goal is to expand your knitting or crocheting horizons. 

  For me, I get stuck in the world of stockinette stitches.  Time to try something new.  Also, there is a strong need to do some stash busting. HELLO, our yarn shop is having a 20% off sale and I would love to try some new yarns out there.  Of course one must make room for more yarn.  So, what project is this leading up too?  Inspira Cowl by graphica.

 How cool is that cowl?  Very sassy! While I  will not be making mine a large as the one from the pattern, I hope to have a fun piece of neckware when finished. What this particular pattern offers is chance to learn a new pattern.  So long boring stitches!  The yarn I am going to be using is Liberty Wool and Cascade 220 Superwash that have been in the stash for about a year.  Yikes!

  Casting on will start tonight during the opening ceremonies. What truly is fun is sharing this challenge with others and being inspired by all the knitting talent. It is enough to keep me motivated through the remaining winter months and maybe get out and show off what has been created.  So get out there and create something or challenge yourself.  After all, if those athletes we cheer on can do triple axles, ride half pipes, and ski jump, surly we can try something just a little different.

Quiet Moments

Lately it has been crazy around here. We have been having lots of fun with parties,celebrations and even a vegan potluck (which was so fun and yummy). 

Today I am appreciating the quiet moments.  I am enjoying the sound of knitting needles. I am pouring over cookbooks, learning new things.  I feel a recharging in these quiet moments. I love and cherish them immensely.

The goal this whole week is enjoy the fun crazy stuff, but also embrace the quiet.

Measure Twice and Cut Once

  Let's hear it for sewing adventures!  I finally got a chance to use one of my new Japanese sewing books. The book that was to begin this path of crafty learning was Happy Homemade Sew Chic.  I really enjoyed how simple the instructions were and how the patterns are easily put together.  The process of tracing the pattern was kind of therapeutic. I used pattern B in the book. The pattern is an over-sized tunic. HELLO cute and comfort!

   The things I will change for next time are the size.  MAN, this baby ran big!!  While this is an ove-rsized tunic, it was just huge.  I also would change the material.  This tunic needs to made from very lightweight and fluid material.  I would not say that this one is unwearable. It will be cute and extremely comfortable, just not a flattering as I would like.  Despite the things that made this challenging, I am looking forward trying more new patterns.

Rise with the Machine

  My new adventure in bread machine baking took an unexpected and yummy turn this weekend.  It all started when I looked out my door.

  Um, yeah, more freezing temps and snow.  Winter weather advisories and blah, blah, blah.  While I usually don't mind winter, it is the cold cold temps that are keeping us tucked away in our burrows this year.  If we are going to be in our homes, I say, let us have good food to enjoy.  To the interwebs! I wanted to try a new recipe for the bread machine. The pretzel roll recipe over at Gluesticks looked like a great one to try.  She makes it look so simple and tasty, so why not give it a try myself?!
 

  Yes bread machine, it is time to use your dough setting.  I know you are usually only used for white or wheat bread, but lets branch out and try something new today.

bathing beauties

  Bread machines do all the hard work of kneading and rising the dough. Isn't is great to just dump in the ingredients and walk away. No work, no fuss. Before you can finish, fold, and put away a load of laundry, it is time to break up the big dough ball into smaller portions.  In order to get a nice brown and "pretzel" like taste it is important to give the rolls a bath.  Yup, a baking soda and water bath to be precise.  After the bath, just sprinkle with kosher salt and let the dough rise for only 30 minutes or so. (depending on how warm it is where you are). After things have risen, it is time for the oven. Butter those tops and get them bakin'!

 Wallah!!!  Of course mine don't look professional and they are all different shapes and sizes, but boy are they tasty.  Really tasty.  This was so easy and it was a hit with the family.  I can honestly say that this will be used again.  It can even be adapted to be vegan friendly and still be super tasty.  Love that!

Hope you find something fun to try this week and break out of those winter blahs!

Personal Challenge

  The month of February is going to be a fun ride.  While people are feasting on chocolates, candy, and other goodies, the mister and I are going to be eating vegan treats.  Next month we go vegan!  I am really looking forward to this adventure.  It is going to be a great way to jump start some healthy eating and to be more mindful of what we put in our bodies.

  
     I have to be honest that this is not my first rodeo going vegan.  A fantastic group of friends (and myself) have gotten together for the past couple of years to celebrate eating a healthy plant based diet.  Some people try just vegetarian, some just want do this for two weeks.  It does not matter what you do, as long as you are choosing something that in some way is healthy, and puts you out of your comfort zone.  We kick it off with a tasty potluck and support one another on our food journey.  This year I am stepping up the research. I really want to try new things. There are new foods, cooking techniques, and even restaurants to try.  So, between the library, the internet, and friends........Challenge excepted!!

Tea and Knits

    

  Today is a quiet Monday and MLK day.  A day for some reflection, a day for remembrance, a day that also happens to be very cold.  Tea is the drink of choice around here.  All types and variety are appreciated in this house. This tasty beverage is what keeps me going all year round.  Currently the Mr., the oldest kiddo, and I are enjoying pots of hot teas.  I don't know what it is about tea that just makes things a little better, a little more clear. While the temps continue to fall throughout the day, rest assured our insides will be nice and toasty warm.

 

   Last week I had started a knitting project and it turned into a huge fail.  The yarn was not right for the sweater I wanted to make. Sometimes a cardigan needs to have a light, flowy feel. This worsted weight yarn was just not going to do it.  I was trying to force something to work and it was not ment to be.  The yarn I am using is Vintage from Berroco yarns.  It is washable, which I love. My NEW pattern of choice is $5 in Paris by Anna Maliszewsk.  You can find this talented fiber artist (she does more then knit) over HERE.  The pattern is super easy to read. It would be a great beginner pattern for someone looking to try a sweater. 

Enjoy the day, have a moment of quiet, and try to do something creative!

Sassy Skirt

 

   I have a new sassy skirt to wear this weekend!  I am going to be honest, as soon as the new sewing books came in the mail, I needed instant gratification.  I wanted to get this skirt D- O- N- E and ready to rock.  This weekend the temps are going to be cold and we have a family get together. This means an outfit that is warm, cute, and comfortable.  The new skirt is a perfect way to cover all those requirements.

 

    I decided to draft my own pattern based on a skirt that I love.  I have had this same GAP skirt forever,  it is a work horse, tried and true.  So, I used the skirt as a template and added a one inch seam allowance. So simple. 

 

    To keep things simple I just used elastic waist and called it good.  I know that this looks less polished, but I wanted this done asap.  Hey, don't judge! I know I am not the only crafter out there who has sacrificed a little something extra in order to get a project finished. 

     Close up! I think it turned out pretty good. I got to use up some fabric in the stash, it is super warm, and I love the colors. I think it has lots of versatility.  There is still plenty of winter left here in the Great Lakes, so this baby is going to get plenty of wear.  

     Have a great weekend! I hope that you find something simple that brings a smile to your face.

To Excited

I was to excited not to share what came in the mail today.  I promise to have a complete post with more details later.  Two new Japanese sewing books are now in my possession and I could not be more happy.  I will be studying these books carefully and planning new projects soon.

Cheers!

Simple Monday Thoughts

   With the completion of several knitting projects and a sweater now on the needles, I feel the need to get some sewing projects finished.  What I love about sewing is you can finish a project rather quickly.  Instant gratification is such a reward.  I have this flannel fabric in the stash, begging to be made into something warm and stylish.  There is lots of cold weather left and now is the perfect time to get some new pieces in the wardrobe.  It is crazy watching the stores switch over to warm weather clothing. I know spring break is like 3 months away, but really?!?!

    I have not decided what pattern to use, or if I should just wing it.  Maybe Kwik Sews pattern K3794. I like this pattern seems simple, I am just sure how the flannel will work with the fullness. Some adjustments may have to be made.  This pattern could serve as a nice template to work from.

  
   I also like  Simplicity pattern 2226. The pockets of this pattern are cute and waistband might be just what I need.  I will mull over these decisions today while out and about.  I hope to be in the sewing room tomorrow and then have a new skirt just in time for the weekend.

   Have a great Monday everyone! I hope you are starting this week off positive and with a deep breath.