The Long & Winding Bobbin

What other dungeon is so dark as one's own heart!

2011-12-13T16:49:00.000-08:00

Where have I been?

What am I doing?

I've been in my sewing dungeon, trying to finish this coat for the past 3 months...

Life has been hard in the dungeon...

eating whatever morsels I can find (Mice mostly)

Lack of sunlight for my brittle bones

looking (And smelling I might add) like a raggedy pirate woman...

But its all over now, I can start to live again.

The coat amongst the apocalypric ruins that once was my sewing room...

More photos to come... after I shower...

What other dungeon is so dark as one's own heart! What jailer so inexorable as one's self! - Nathaniel Hawthorne

Bombshell Dresses ahoy!

2011-07-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

Guess who is taking on Gertie's online Bombshell Dress class...?

Me!

Woo Hoo!

Now back to that full bust adjustment... ugh the perils of having large bosoms...

Finished Project: Unfocused Night Dress...Finally...

2011-07-10T04:03:00.000-07:00

Hi all.

Isn't it about time that I posted some photos of a finished project?

I recently finished this little Mccalls number and thought I'd better share.

You can check out the toile in my previous post.

I Made the finished version from a lovely Japanese Cotton called 'Unfocused Night' from Tessuti Fabrics & some black gabardine from the stash. (It is much blacker that the photos show, thanks Mr.Flash).

Please excuse the hair and face. We just got home from a weekend away and I am looking a little flat after sitting in the car and recovering from a few days of nothing but eating, drinking & exploring.

Thanks again to Mr.Flash for showing up all of the wrinkles!

It all came together without any major blips and was reasonably quick....

I think I got most of the bodice done in an afternoon, interlining,boning, lining & all.

I used the pretty cotton for most of the bodice and the gaberdine for the under layer of the bust and for the skirt also. Gaberdine has such a nice drape!

I traded the skirt from the pattern for a self drafted full circle skirt. Nothing beats a swishy circle right?

As I mentioned in my last post, one of the reasons I purchased this pattern was that it came in different cup sizes. These things are important for a full busted lass like me.

It goes up to a D cup size but that seemed ample enough (I am an E cup normally).

The D cup fits perfectly! Hows these crazy pattern sizes... sheesh.

Trusty bow belt, you are the greatest!

I did however have to take a LARGE (and I mean huge!) amount off the back pieces. I seem to have that problem with most patterns. I must have a small back or something...

The front fits and side seams are where they should be, but the back has at least 2 - 3 inches too much.

Does anybody else have this problem?

I shaved a chunk from both sides of the middle of the back bodice pieces and it worked out fine.

It is perfectly snug now.

The other alteration made was to the bust darts.

They came out pointy.... and I mean Madonna Pointy!

I re-sewed them with a much curvier shape and they came back from the 80's.

Phew...

This was my first time using boning - Easy Peasy as it turns out!

And again, finished with a handpicked vintage metal zipper.

I would love to make another version of this in brighter colours and with a different skirt.

The possibilities!

The insides too you ask?

It is lined with a soft purpleish cotton. Comfy!

I managed to get some dodgy iphone photos for your enjoyment...

Thats all folks! Thanks for looking :-)

Let me know what you think.

Hope your all swell...

(Thanks to my lovely gent for the pictures. You are the best ox)

Toiles Away!

2011-06-28T01:03:00.000-07:00

This is my toile of McCalls 6350. A pretty little Laura Ashley pattern.

What do I love most about this pattern you ask?

Why it's the cup sizes of course!

I love that this goes up to a D cup. I always want to make up patterns with lovely bust details but just thinking of the full bust alteration on a pattern like this gets me flustered!.

I am an E cup and the D cup of this pattern fits like a DREAM!

I am making it up in this pretty Japanese cotton from Tessuti.

And a contrasting black fabric from the stash :-)

The only thing I had to change was the shape of the darts... they were slightly...

erm.... pointy Madonna style. So I rounded them off.

Finished pictures to come, I'm wearing this out on the weekend! hooray

Sunday, I've got buttons on my mind...

2011-06-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

Last week I my lovely man had a day off so of course I wagged work to spend the day with him, strolling around the wintery Melbourne city. Eating, drinking, shopping & exploring.

We had breakfast at one of our favourite little cafes in Central Place and looked around the shops.

All the usual ones... T2, Alannah Hill, Anton's, Lush and the rest.

I wanted to take a look at Buttonmania, as I havn't been there before.

(Every single time I have visited the shop it's been closed! no luck).

But on this day it was open. It was so busy that I didn't really get to have a good look though.

But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, I was hovering around the front of the shop & happened to stumble upon another little shop in the same building.

l'ucello

What a pretty little shop. I picked up some lovely buttons, thread and a belt buckle...

I also grabbed some vintage threads- Olive green nylon & black cotton. They work on the Pfaff like a dream.... ahhh...

Also... The woman behind the counter was so lovely & helpful. Thank you!

I recommend that everybody nearby check it out. There was way too many buttons to choose from so I just took a lucky dip.

Does anybody have any ideas of what to make with these beauties?

I need something that will show them off :-)

Hope you all had a great week.
What is everybody sewing?
I've got a few things on the go, and a new Beignet to show you all!
If only it would stop raining...

Tally ho!

Winter Coat, Olive please!

2011-06-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

Since it was a long weekend for us here in Australia, I thought I would embark on a project that has been on my mind for a long time. I purchased the book Sew Serendipity a few months ago and have been eyeballing the pretty tailored jacket ever since. It has been so cold on my walks to work that a warm jacket was in order. So it was time to get cracking!

Add caption

To get started, I headed to the sewing shop to get some odds and ends such as buttons, twill tape & interfacing. I think I need to mention that I seem to have a slight obsession with olive green at the moment. (I just finished sewing some olive green buttons on my new Colette Beignet, but wait, thats for my next post.) and out the corner of my eye, I just happened to spot this perfect olive shade... at Spotlight of all places... The label stated that it was 'Melton Wool' 100% wool. I'm no good at fabric classification, has anybody else ever heard of this??? Anywho... it felt lovely so I got 3 metres (And after cutting out the jacket there is still just over a metre to make a sexy pencil skirt with, Hooray.)

Front before lining & facing is added

I cut out all the pieces in the shell fabric, lining fabric & interlining fabric. Oh Boy!

I tried a new technique too! Bound buttonholes. Thanks to Tasia's excellent tutorial, they were a breeze! I think I could improve them next time, the middle one is a tiny bit bigger than the others...shh

The pattern calls for double stitched seams, bodice darts and gathering, and it is simple enough to customize with your own embelleshments! I will be adding button up cuffs to the sleeves and I also drafted a lining as the pattern didn't include this. I love silky lining on a warm winter jacket.

The whole jacket is underlined with some leftover medium weight cotton knit fabric (Thats the crazy orange colour that is poking out.) that I had in the stash and the lining was an ebay grab. It is a silk wool blend and feels divine.

Lining & Facing

It all went pretty smoothly. When it was time to sew the facing and lining in, sheesh there were so many layers! The jacket is so heavy (Super heavy!) but my machine sewed straight on through it without any problems. I love my Pfaff!

Check out the layer action...

All thats left to do is sew on the cuffs and finish the hem & finally handsew the innards.

Gah, I might even get to wear it before winter is over! Fancy that...

Jeans! How cool is this guy...

2011-06-12T05:37:00.000-07:00

My lovely gent was looking around on the world wide web and stumbled upon the great video of the lovely Roy from Roy Jeans (I've never heard of them up until now.)
I have watched it over and over again and I am jealous of all his cool gadgets!
I like that it shows just how much effort goes into making a single pair of jeans... Sheesh, no wonder they have a $275 price tag attached...
And is it just me or does anybody else find a man who sews sexy? ok maybe thats just me...
He looks like he has sewn a trillion pairs, so speedy and perfect!
Thats all for today folks. Stay tuned for a 200 follower giveaway coming soon!
Have a nice weekend & long weekend if your here in Australia :-)

Roy's Jeans - Video by Self Edge from Self Edge on Vimeo.

I want...

2011-06-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

French Connection Cluch from ASOS

Sneak Peek...

2011-05-26T21:33:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my lovely,talented & wonderful friend: Jodie :-)

Running in Circle Skirts

2011-04-28T03:58:00.000-07:00

Howdy All

Hope your all well and dandy!

Its been a busy few weeks of sewing & knitting & all things nice around here.

I have been plotting & scheming around online ventures too!

In Sewing news...

I have been playing around with some fabric dyes.

Using an ombre technique that I found online... somewhere...

I started with my favourite olive tones and have since tried red, navy & even bright pink.

just hanging around with my dummy (Still unnamed! scandalous!!!)

Peekaboo Petticoat

This is the result of the first dye. Made up into a simple circle skirt.

It has a mustard coloured voile underskirt and invisible hand stitching (The whole inside of the waistband!) to create a clean look on the outside.

It has an invisible side zipper and a hook & eye to finish. I made it using a good quality medium weight gabardine, ombre dyes & plenty of LOVE of course..

All in all it cost around $60 to make. Sheesh...

I was wanting to put a few of these in my new Etsty Store in every colour of the rainbow! So...

Questions for you, dear readers:

Do you think that these are sellable?

How much would you pay for one of these handmade/hand dyed skirts?

How would you photography them? (They really don't look as nice in the pictures!)

Any other thoughts/tips/ideas/input...

Things that have helped your own etsy/ebay etc. stores??

I'm in desperate need of your input and ideas :-)

Or tell me if it is ridiculous too! HA

In the meantime, I have been perusing all of your blogs

The snug Bug's Tahitian Treats

Tilly's pretty Summer dress

Voodoo Stitches all round awesomeness!

Have fun and stay stitching!!!

Knit Sticks

2011-04-26T04:42:00.000-07:00

Knit Knit Knit...

Is all I've been doing...

In other news... I'm opening an etsy store with some hand sewn goodies :-)

Stay tuned!

The Lemonade Dress

2011-03-21T01:57:00.000-07:00

Presenting...

The Lemonade dress

I made this dress a couple of months ago using a lemony print seersucker purchased from Ebay.

It was actually a tablecloth, so it took a lot of unpicking of the edges before i could actually start sewing the darn thing!

I just realized how strange my legs look in this shot. It looks like they are back to front... they are crossed but hmm

It was made using the same self drafted pattern as the black & white gingham dress and is lined in a yellowy mustardy coloured cotton voile. Its perfect and swishy for a lovely summers day... even though summer is over...

Crinkly Seersucker!

It was a breeze to sew, the only thing I changed was to bring the neckline up a bit....

No peek-a-boo bra this time!

I'm thinking of letting the hem down a bit, the length doesn't look quite right... what do you guys think??

It matches the yellow petticoat too :-)

check out the 5 inche hem with pretty yellow ribbon :-)

I did also try a new method...

The hand picked zipper that I have been wanting to try for SO long.

It is surprisingly easy (And I hate hand sewing (Well no I don't hate it, just havn't practiced enough)).

I used a vintage yellow zipper that I got in a bulk lot from Etsy.

Its so sturdy!

SO not close enough to see the hard work on the hand picked zip! Dang!

Anywho... I have lots of fabric piling up so I better get back to the trusty machine.

Sneak peek...

Thats all for now folks!

Tumbleweed...

2011-03-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

Things sure are quiet around here....

But never fear,

back shortly!

Vintage Fabric Addict

2011-01-30T19:23:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while I stumble upon a shop that I love too much to share

because I want to keep it all to myself!

But I will make an exception in this case, only this once....

This is where I found the perfect gingham taffeta for this dress.

http://www.vintagefabricaddict.com/

Vintage Fabric Addict.... sigh

Oh the hours I have spent scrolling through the pages of fabricy awesomeness,

From atomic, abstract, novelty to florals & paisley...

and not to mention, more polka dots than you can shake a stick at!

There is enough drool worthy fabric to keep you busy and make your wallet quiver in fear!

(Thats not to say that it is not reasonably priced, they are certainly reasonable,

There is just too many to choose from! tee hee)

These are my personal Favourites. So you better stay away from them, because I am waiting til payday!

Mitts off everyone! haha I'm kidding.... but I'm not really...
I can see both of these made up into lovely little skirts ->

Birds Birds Birds

Bows Bows Bows!!

Not only is the fabric lovely but the customer service is exceptional too!

(Thank you Elizabeth, if you are reading this!)

I think everybody should take a looksy...

Click here to go to fabric heaven!

Black & White #1

2011-01-18T03:53:00.000-08:00

Current Obsession - Black & White frocks.

I have been eyeing off some lovely black and white frocks lately over at Modcloth and other such pretty sites and decided I need one... In gingham.

Twas just my luck when I happened to stumble upon some perfect black and white shiny gingham taffeta on ebay & won it for a steal! I had to start stitching as soon as it arrived.

Full Frontal

This is the first complete dress that I have drafted myself and it turned out pretty good I think...
The only thing is that the neckline is about an inch too low, oops. I will have to be careful when & where I wear this number.

Back Shot

The fabric was a bit of a pain to sew with... so shiny and creasy....bleh!

But we got there in the end... after two zippers and some loss of hair...

Its completely lined in some light white cotton but I didn't get a picture. Silly me.

I plan to make this again in a gorgeous lemon print seersucker (Yes another ebay score, don't judge me!)

Think I'll raise the neckline this time so its good to wear out of the house... Tee hee

Lemony Awesomness and Mystery Fabric

Hope everyone is going well in sewing land.

What is everybody sewing???

Stay Tuned for Black & White #2 & #3

Black and white fever!

xx

Winners! Drumroll please.... ahem

2011-01-09T20:14:00.000-08:00

Hi all

Thank you for all of your lovely entries and showing me your Christmas outfits.

The winners of last weeks competition are as follows :-)

Prize #1

The lovely petticoat pattern goes to....

Evie - La Couturière Dimanche

Check out her beautiful vintage Christmas dress, velvet accents... drool... and a foot warmer??? I want one!

Prize #2

Skirt pattern, This ones goes to...

Khriste B - Stitch it up stella

Loving the Pineapple dress :-)

Prize #3

The pretty pattern necklace goes to...the lovely
Kat - Kat's Creations

And what beautiful creations they are.... i like her picnic skirt the best.

Congratulations to the winners.

Please contact me within 3 days of this post with you address/details so I can post them off to you :-)

If I don't hear from the winner then I will do a redraw of the prize :-)

Thanks for playing along! I hope everybody is having a lovely new year so far.

I am working on something special. But more about that later...shh

Give it away, Give it away, Give it away now!

2011-01-03T02:10:00.000-08:00

As promised.... Ta Da! The New Year Giveaway

As it is a fresh new year and it is the time for giving and what not...

I have some small items up for grabs. If you like what you see, then please leave a comment.

Its easy as pie.

Item #1

Pretty little petticoat pattern Butterick 7362- with 3 style options. I can't wait to see this one made up. Its a Size 24 waist but I'd say that it is easily graded up or down. (Who is that tiny?)

Item #2

Another pattern, Simplicity 1688, cute wraparound skirt that buttons up. I purchased this from the lovely Miss Dandy's Etsy Store and made it up and it was lovely. It is a Size 26 waist. I am having a bit of a destash and this one had to go. Sigh. The envelope is not in very good condition but the pieces are there.

Finally...

Item #3

A cute necklace that any seamstress will appreciate! From sourcherry.co.uk (They have some cute stuff)

It has a little Vogue pattern on it. It is shiny and new. I wish I had the pattern! so cute.

Okay now for the boring stuff!!!

How to enter...

1. You must be a follower to enter... that's an easy one for one entry...just leave a comment.

2. For a second entry, Mention the giveaway and link to it from your own blog. (This must be a seperate comment!)

3. For a third entry, I want you to link to a picture of your Christmas/Holiday outfit, something pretty you wore in your third comment.

Hooray!

Competition is open to everyone, all countries
& Closes on Saturday 8th January at Midnight (Australian Eastern Standard Time)

Winners to be announced on Sunday or Monday (As I'm away on the weekend)

Please leave a separate comment for each entry, So I can properly pick the lucky winners & do specify which prize/s you would like to win :-)

Hope everybody is great. I'm back to work tomorrow... boo hoo.

What is everybody sewing?

Take care & Good luck!!!

A Happy New Year, A Finished Project & A Giveaway Announcement Hurrah!

2011-01-02T03:23:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned for a GIVEAWAY which will be posted tomorrow! But in the meantime...
The finished New Years Eve Dress

With the fluffy purple petticoat underneath :-)

I actually got the New years eve dress finished for my lovely pal Jodie

And what a saga it was...

The story starts........ now

Twas the night before ~~Christmas~~ New Years Eve and all through the house, not a creature was stirring not even a mouse..... oh wait yes, there was one certain creature stirring... it was Renay working franticly at the sewing machine finishing seams and bows, hems and what not, then carefully handstitching here and there & everywhere. Then finally.... finito.

View from the back

Then the day came. The dress was to be worn. Jodie stepped out looking dashing in the swishy skirt and perfectly fitting bodice. She then twirled around for a little help with her zipper..... alas, when the zipper upperer went to zip her up the zipper decided that it would split. Even after an hour of trying to fix it, no luck. We tried every trick in the book, every old wives tale, Candle wax, greylead pencil... My lovely man even tried to spray WD40 on the darn thing! But no... The zipper bombed out, and with only an hour until the party, the backup dress had to be dragged out.

The moral of the story: Don't use crappy invisible zippers that feel like paper. UGH!

Bodice and skirt pleats. So hard to capture details

So Jodie only got to wear the dress for 7 minutes... thats right 7 minutes!!!

But it worked out okay in the end, as it was 42 degrees (celcius!) and we were SO HOT.

Her backup dress was much cooler than the 50's petticoat number.

What a shame.

Open back design as requested

Never fear though, it has since been corrected and in wearable condition so we will just have to take it out for a twirl and cocktails another time... oh how terrible!

Dress Details:

Pattern: Self drafted. I took Jodies measurements and just got lucky with the fit.

She wanted a full skirt and an open back with a bow. I like it enough to make one for myself. Its so swishy and feminine.

Fabric: Jodie found the fabric herself and a nice little fabric boutique. It's a nice medium weight cotton sateen and sewed beautifully.

Time taken: Forever.

Anywho! Hope your all well & happy and enjoying the new year

Come back tomorrow for a giveaway, some cute items up for grabs!

Thats all for now folks, I need a brandy.... wait I don't drink brandy...

Petticoat twirling...

2010-12-22T03:16:00.000-08:00

There is some serious petticoat fever happening around here.... its all I can think about!

I stumbled upon an awesome tutorial on Sugardale's blog for a 3 tiered petticoat.

I have been waiting for a tutorial like this for what seems like eons.

So I got excited... drove to the fabric shop straight away... and got cracking!

This is pretty much finished except for the waistband. I have since added a stripey rainbow binding. :-)

They are so fun to make and your circle skirts will look so full and pretty.

Even though I did feel a little silly asking the lady for 15 metres of ribbon at the shop...

Who needs all that ribbon! (is what her eyes said)

Sugardale recommends that you use crinoline as your fabric choice or tulle.

I chose a light yet stiff crystal organza because it came in much prettier colours and I could not find crinoline for the life of me... anybody have any suggestions???

So the purple one is for a friend. I am making her a new years eve dress.

The skirt and lining is finished and now the petticoat, so only the bodice is left.... oh bodice, why do you mock me with your difficultness!!!

The fabric is a medium weight cotton sateen with slight stretch.

It sews like Butter!!! Hopefully I get this baby done by new years. Wish me luck...

(Those following would know that I have had this dress in the works for months now. yep months!)

I couldn't leave myself petticoatless (YES, its a word) so I snapped the whip and made myself one too. In a bright yellow :-)

So it turns out that it could double as a poncho too! okay maybe not...

I want one in every colour.

I have been spying a lovely olive green organza and a pretty array of gelati colours too.

The sky is the limit!

But for now...

The sewing will be put on hold for a few days because is Christmas time, hooray!

So Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays.

I hope Santa brings you something nice, like some tupperware?

Time for lots of rest and post Christmas fabric sales... oh boy

Whats that.... New shoes.. why yes...

2010-12-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

I have been lusting after these shoes for a LONG time. Too long in fact.

And today my friends... they are mine!

Oh joy! A christmas present from me to me.

You can find them here. I found these on ebay for less than half the price hence the excitement!

So, my dry blogging spell is over, I'm back baby and with new sewing projects none the less!

Hope you are all well and I will be scouting around all of your wonderfull blogs for some new ideas!

Who is doing the crepe sew along?

I need some fabric ideas???

Take care and keep stitching :-)

Elegant Musings & Fur Collars....

2010-11-18T02:32:00.000-08:00

Hi Folks!

If you are in a cooler part of the world you should consider a looksy at Casey's lovely blog...

She has a beautiful faux fur collar up for grabs along with a great tutorial for making one yourself!!!

There must be faux fur fever because there is another awesome tutorial over at the Colette Patterns Blog too :-)

Take a peak.... Its getting warm here and I still have the urge to make one!!!

FABRIC!! I need ideas....

2010-11-16T04:32:00.000-08:00

The other day we stumbled upon a lovely little fabric/wallpaper shop called Flashback !

So much cool stuff! If you are ever in Melbourne you should check it out for sure :-)

Beautiful bolts of vintage fabric everywhere, books with old samples of wallpaper and more

I made a couple of little purchases.... For your viewing pleasure...

A stripey cotton voile dated from the 60's

I have already started on a project with this one & its almost finished woo hoo

I also purchased a heavier cotton in an bright senorita print!

I have one metre of this and I'm struggling with ideas of what to make.... I need help

Suggestions Please ???

Bloglovin!

2010-11-16T04:17:00.001-08:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

The Fairy Floss Dress

2010-11-08T02:42:00.000-08:00

Hello Folks!

Yes I'm still alive, it's been a long time between drinks...

I have been SO busy. I know I say that a lot, But this time its really really true I swear!

I have started my new job as a youth worker, been finishing up my studies, shopping, drinking cocktails and (of course) sewing like a crazy woman!

I actually have a finished project to show you (Jumps up and down.)

Oh wait its not finished, it needs to be hemmed.... but hey don't spoil my fun!!!

I present...
The Fairy Floss Dress :-)

The fabric was another Tessuti grab, a silk wook blend (I think thats what the lovely shop assistant said...) and it reminds me of fairy floss. It came in a gorgeous powder blue also ( I think I may just snatch some of that up too...) but my lovely gent REALLY wanted me to get pink.... what the? It has a lovely feel to it and has slight stretch, the texture is very flattering.

I used this vintage Butterick pattern that I scored from Ebay for a few dollars. I LOVE all of the pleats!

It all came together in about two afternoons. It was a surprisingly quick project! I would definately make it again, but I would take a few inches from the length of the bodice. I always have this problem!

I need to take off at least 3 inches for it to be perfect but this little pink number still seems to fit ok. It is a pretty good fit in the waist and bust, I need to get my hands on more 50's Butterick patterns!

I really love the details in this pattern, so simple and stylish!

I chose cap sleeves and the collar because it's heating up here at the moment and I plan to wear this.

But I really want to make the longer sleeved version with the tie collar next time :-)

The sleeves are bound with a stripey binding from the stash, It matched perfectly!

I always wondered how these kickpleats were sewn, They are so easy! ridiculously easy. But they look great and sure make it much easier to walk....

Kickpleat and a very messy hem!

So all it needs now is the finishing touches. And a pink belt to match...

Does anybody know of any good belt sources??? vintage or new?

Thanks for checking in peoples,

What is everyone sewing?????

Hope everyone is great! Take Care

:-)

Crafty Christmas Club.... Hooray!

2010-10-27T03:15:00.000-07:00

The lovely lady over at Tilly and the Buttons has come up with the great idea of a Crafty Christmas Club.

You can read her post about it and join up here.

Its such a great idea, Christmas is only 8 weeks away! EEP!

Tilly's definition of Crafty Christmas Club:

"Crafty Christmas Club is a group blog for people who are making their own Christmas prezzies this year. A hub to discuss your crafty plans with likeminded people, gain inspiration from other craftsters, share tips and tutorials, and - perhaps most importantly - show off your finished goodies without spoiling the surprise to family and friends who might be reading your own blog!"

So it looks like its time to get crafty and start making some handmade gifts.

I am personally thinking of making some aprons, purses, buscuits and some other trinkets!

There's already great things happening at the blog and my 'to do' list is growing everytime I look at it...

So go check it out and join up! the more the merrier :-)

Hope your having a good week, new projects to be posted soon!

Wherefore art thou?

2010-10-22T02:55:00.000-07:00

I hear you all asking...

well,
It is spring carnival season here at the moment and there is horse racing fever in the air!
We went to our local race day and it was so sunny and perfect!

I have been super busy sewing up 2 dresses for the day, one for me, and one for another lovely lady I know. It was a time crunch to say the least and came down to the wire...

I was literally sewing buttons on the dresses on the morning of the event... phew!
But it was worth it!!!

terrible posture.... haha

On the left is the lovely lady who asked me to sew her up something in white with a giant collar.

She looks so pretty in white!

On the right is another lady friend of mine and in the middle, myself.

As you can see our two dresses have the same self drafted skirt. But for the white number I used great 60's pattern that has been in my stash since the dawn of time. I have never used the pattern before but it was lucky enough to be in her size, the only change made was that the pattern is a halterneck, but she wanted the back to be enclosed so I drafted up a back piece and had to work out how to make the collar attach to it.... slight nightmare with facings and what not... but we got there in the end!

And she liked it and thats all that matters :-)

Its hard to make out, but there are matching pink silk buttons and undercollar.

And she even found matching shoes!

For my own dress, I drafted a simple bodice with wide straps, partly inspired by Louis Vuitton's recent 50's collection. I got the stretchy cottonish (yes, technical) fabric from Tessuti Fabrics in Melbourne (AKA Heaven)

It was so simple and quite quick, I made a tulle petticoat to give the skirt some body and put on some black silk self covered buttons to match the skirt band.

It was so fun to wear!

My hair even stayed curly ALL DAY after being in pin curls all night, amazing.

It was a fun day full of horse racing, champagne and sore feet.... very sore feet...

Can't wait til next year....

Thank you Mumsy for playing paparazzi for us :-)

Hope your all having a great week and sewing up something pretty.

I have some new fabric and hope to be starting something new as soon as possible, also, we are attending a vintage bike rally next week. Can't wait!!!

til then..

ta ta

Beautiful Blogger Award

2010-10-09T04:36:00.000-07:00

Ohh la la... My first award!!!

I was lucky enough to receive a Beautiful Blogger award from the lovely Rachel from Boo Dogg and Me

I love her blog, she is so stylish and classy and can sew her pants off...... or on...??

I especially loved her trio of birthday dresses, you should go have a looksy here!

I was also nominated for this award a while back by the awesome chick over at Kyla Con Stylas Bitchery Stitchery Blog. She makes some cute bags that I am wanting to copy really badly!

Sorry about the late reply! :-)

So the deal is that I need to tell my lovely readers 10 things about myself and pass the awards on to 3 other lovely bloggers... sounds easy enough eh?

Hmm, where to start?

....

1. At this very moment, I am watching 'The Owl & The Pussycat' from 1970 starring Barbara Streisand and it is actually quite funny!

2. I once had a job at an ice cream shop. After working there for a few months, my right arm was so strong and muscly from scooping. I did get free ice cream for breakfast lunch and dinner though. Every flavour you could think of... toblerone, white chocolate, ferrero roche, tim tam... champage....

drool

3. I was terrible in sewing class in high school. We made a pair of pyjamas and when i took them home, they fell off the clothesline and our dog chewed them up. They were terrible anyways... But after high school I suddenly got the knack for it.

4. Once upon a time, I met the Fonz. We were at Melbourne Zoo on a school trip and whilst looking at the monkeys the man in front of us turned around and guess who it was.... Fonzy!!! crazy

5. I am almost finished my Youth Work certificate, Only 2 months to go...

6. Number six is my lucky number. My birthday is on the 6th of August which is also my mum's birthday. Sorry about that mum, I owe you a birthday. 6 has always been lucky for me.

7. I want a 1964 Ford Mustang. My dream car. In candy apple red. So that is the first thing I'm buying when I win tattslotto, or become famous. So I guess I need to start buying tattslotto tickets... and becoming famous.

8. I love red things.

9. I wish there were more than 3 seasons of Deadwood. Best. Show. Ever.

10. Lastly. I just got a new job.

Okay that took longer than expected!

Time to spread the love...

The three people I'd like to pass the award to are:

Miss Dandy : A lovely lass with classy style.

Andi B. Goode: A Fellow Aussie Lady.

Fawn & Flower: Who always makes me laugh

Thats all folks. More to come soon.

Have a great weekend!!! I'm off to the sewing room...

And the winners are....

2010-10-04T02:25:00.000-07:00

Hello happy sewers.

Its time to announce the lovely & lucky winners of the '80 followers Giveaway'

Thank you all for stopping by and checking out the giveaway, It was great to see all of your current projects and read some new blogs. So a big THANKS to you all.

Sorry I don't have a prize for all of you...

But thats the way the cookie crumbles, or in this case thats the way the random number generator crumbles... crumbles??? rolls?? Help me out here...

Anyway, I know you'll all skip this bit and scroll down to the winners so I may as well get on with it!

Winner of Prize #1: The Patterns

Modern Suzie

Winner of Prize #2: The Fabric

Debi

Winner of Prize #3: The bag

Gabriella

If the winners could all drop me a line with your address/info (Please write to: renay.w@hotmail.com) , I will ship these off in the next few days.

Unfortunately if I don't hear from you within 3 days of this post, I will have to redraw your prize.

THANKS AGAIN EVERYONE :-)

So it seems I have reached 100 followers.... even better.

that means there will be another giveaway soon so stay tuned lovely followers...

Have a lovely week and look out for my upcoming posts including a wrap up of Self Stitched September, A finished project & an award I won, Yippee!

Have fun and get back to your sewing machines!

Great Giveaways Happening Everywhere...

2010-09-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hey sewing enthusiasts...

You should all check out the lovely fabric from Little Things over at Sarah's blog The Last Piece.

There is a great fat quarter bundle giveaway and its so bright and cheerful.

Get your skates on and go enter now!

Stayin' Alive on Days 24 & 25

2010-09-29T06:24:00.000-07:00

Just a quick SSS update

Day 24:

On this very SQUINTY day I wore a self made black silky blouse (Boring) to work

and also wore a hand dyed scarf, a gift from a friend... is that cheating....?

mmmm squinty squinty

Day 25:

(looking very happy about finishing work....)

and almost cheating again.... The only self stitched thing is the pink feather & fan scarf..... just finished the night before, not a moment too soon!

Although, I did wear my self stitched tartan coat to work, so that counts :-)

So thats that

Thanks for looking and don't forget to enter the giveaway posted yesterday

You have until Saturday night so get cracking :-)

Happy Sewing

GiveawayPalooza!

2010-09-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

Okay so maybe the title needs work. But who cares because it's GIVEAWAY time!!! Yippeee...

I promised a giveaway at 80 followers so without any further suspense....

Here is whats up for grabs!

Prize #1

2 Vintage Simplicity Patterns, Both size 14 (34" Bust)

The one on the left is a cute nightgown pattern with three styles, or you could use it for a dress. either or.

The other, is a dress or two piece with big patch pockets and a collar. I never got around to using it but I would love to see it made up!

Prize #2

2 Pieces of vintage fabric

A white and light blue baby houndstooth:

Measuring: Approx. 91cm (35") Selvedge to Selvedge

144cm (56.5") in Length

This was listed as wool when i purchased it, it is lightweight and woven, But I havn't come up with anything to make with it, I would love to see what somebody could do with it!

The other piece of fabric:

Measuring: Approx. 156cm (60") Selvedge to Selvedge

172cm (68") in Length

I have no idea what this is, It was given to me with a lot of other fabrics still sitting in my stash.

There have been two squares cut out of this piece on a single layer... not too much a loss.

It feels like a woven cottony lineny (Technical terms) type thing. But I am no fabric expert...

There may just be enough to squeeze a dress out of.... I think it would make a great Beignet.... tee hee

It even has the tag still on... Made in Italy!

Can you make out what it says???

And Prize #3

A pretty antique-gold "Olga Berg" Clutch/Purse

Brand new Olga berg purse, made from a sparkly gold rayon. Kiss lock closure and gold chain (You can also remove the chain to make it a clutch)

Lovely gold lining with a little pocket for your lipstick/phone/etc.

Its small, but big enough to fit everything you need to take for a night out!

Its not vintage but has the right kind of look.

So that's the goodies my friends.

Now for the RULES!

1. You must be a follower to enter... that's an easy one for one entry...

2. For a second entry, Mention the giveaway and link to it from your own blog.

3. For a third entry, I want you to post/link to a picture of what your working on at the moment, this can be sewing or knitting or anything else that's crafty!

Competition is open to everyone, all countries
& Closes on Saturday at Midnight (Australian Eastern Standard Time)

Please leave a separate comment for each entry, So I can properly pick the lucky winners & do specify which prize/s you would like to win :-)

So that's all folks, Any questions or queries can be eeeeeemailed to me! renay.w@hotmail.com

Best of luck and happy entering!!!

Busy Bee on Day 23

2010-09-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

Today I needed something loose and easy to wear because I was working at the sewing machine all day.

Jeans and cardi it is!

And the self stitched silky top.

The dress (well half of a dress) on my mannequin is for a friend. I am finally making some progress, YAY

The pattern is self drafted and the fabric was chosen by my friend,

It is a stretch cotton sateen with paint splodges all over it. Its nice and shiny.

Its a little long at the moment, waiting to be hemmed.

It was so nice and warm today, spring is finally here, the sun is coming back!

There is not long left for self stitched september, phew...

I've enjoyed it, but it has been way harder than I thought... Next time I will be more prepared...

But thats all for today folks. Check back in tomorrow, the Giveaway will be announced! woo hoo

Take care :-)

Day 22, Comfy Cardi & Exciting News

2010-09-24T05:28:00.000-07:00

On day 22 the Comfy Cardi came in handy, it was cold and windy outside and I needed something that was warm and friendly!

Looking nice and crumpled!

SSS is going so quickly, theres only 11 Days left, eep...

But the exciting news?

This little blog has been going since June and I have finally hit 80 Followers!

So I'd like to say a big thank you! to all of you who come by and have a read or leave a nice comment.

Its so nice to get feedback and meet you all :-)

And now I'm wasting more time on the internet than ever, haha

I never expected to get 10 followers, let alone 80!

As promised, there will be a GIVEAWAY announced in the next few days.

There will be some little bits and pieces up for grabs so make sure your reading!

Also, I met a lovely man at the sewing centre today, He made my day!

It was my first time at this particular place (they just moved there) and this man and his wife run the place and couldn't stop talking about how great Pfaff's are.

They were great! I've never met a man so in love with sewing machines...

Well maybe Peter!

He was so helpful and I ended up buying a new foot for my machine.

$42 !!!!! for one foot!!!

anywho, they had lots of great stuff there and they are only 3 minutes from my house (tee hee)

I can't wait to go back there and ogle all of their machines and bits and bobs!

Thats all folks

Hope your all happy and sewing

:-)

Day 21 + Giveaway!

2010-09-23T03:29:00.000-07:00

Worst paparazzi shot ever!

I was fumbling around and being annoying whilst Mr.Lovely tinkered with his car.

I wore the Lady Grey again.... two days in a row!

On a funner note.

There will be a giveaway at 80 Followers! Yippeee

There will be some patterns, fabric and other bits and pieces up for grabs so tell your pals.

Have a great Friday everybody, almost the weekend! Woo hooo

:-)

Day 20....

2010-09-21T05:54:00.000-07:00

Nothing new here, Lazy post today because its getting late!

On Day 20 I wore the Lady Grey jacket all day and it was so comfy and warm!

We went for a drive to Belgrave and Mr.Lovely purchased a 1986 Saab 900i.

There is serious Saab fever happening around here, there are 3 in the driveway at the moment!

After car shopping we went to Ikea and got some lamps and other bits and pieces, I LOVE Ikea...

who doesn't?

Days 16, 17, 18 & 19

2010-09-20T03:01:00.000-07:00

Ohh somebody has been a bad documenter...

BAD BAD BAD

Days 16, 17 & 18 of SSS have no paparazzi shots. But trust me when I say I wore:

My self stitched cardi on Day 16 to work and the supermarket

My self stitched sencha blouse on Day 17 to work

& My refashioned vintage Sailor skirt on Day 18...

I promise...

Today I wore a black blouse made from this vintage Simplicity pattern:

It is not my greatest work but hey, its black and perfect for work attire.

The yoke was quite tricky to sew, I think I used a trillion pins!

I want to make it up in a red gingham too like on the envelope!

So here is the hard evidence, This is me with NO make up besides red lip gloss.

I don't feel like myself without mascara and concealer. Thankfully the flash is quite forgiving.

Thanks to Mr. Lovely again for the photos, you are so handy!

Thats all folks :-)

Have a Lovely week!

Ahoy there Beignet!

2010-09-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

Another abandoned project, finished on this lazy weekend

The Beignet Skirt by... you guessed it... Colette Patterns.

It was all going great....

That is until it came time for the buttonholes... ALL 12 OF THEM!!!

So I got lazy and left it in the corner, until today.

All 12 Buttons were sewed on and all 12 Buttonholes were... buttonholed?

I scored this red and white candy stripe seersucker from ebay for around $7 (approx. 3 mtrs)

& still have another metre and a half, another dirndle perhaps???

I really love sewing with seersucker! I ~~want~~ need more!

I made a plain red belt for this Beignet also, just in case I want a change.

The buttons are just plain red two holed numbers.

It was fun to sew and I wantto make another one... in purple... and spots... and...

Sometimes I get addicted to patterns and want to sew it in a rainbow of colours! bad.

I love the way the lining is sewn into this skirt. Its such a good pattern!

I used pink faille for the lining so its warm enough for the cooler spring days.

So, another one bites the dust. The unfinished pile is getting smaller! finally...

Update on Self Stitched September tomorrow :-)

Hope your weekends are going swimmingly!

Easy Gathered Skirt on Day 15

2010-09-17T03:09:00.000-07:00

This is what I whipped up last night in some sort of sewing frenzy.

A simple Gathered skirt made from a pretty patterned fabric that I picked up in Darwin

So ladylike and easy, but most important of all comfortable!

I finished this up in less than 2 hours. There is a 5 inch hem so it hangs quite nicely.

It looks much nicer in person & with my self made petticoat that I forgot to put on for these shots

oh well... next time...

I'm going to make up another one tomorrow in a lovely teal taffeta with a few more gathers, Yay

This could be the beginning of another skirt addiction! Look out!

Thanks to Mr. Lovely again for playing photographer ox

Have a good weekend ladies and gents

What are you all sewing???

Day 14... Almost half way there!

2010-09-15T04:59:00.000-07:00

Day 14... Nothing too thrilling...

It was a work day so I pulled out the black Sencha Blouse by Colette Patterns

(I know I know, Like a Broken record right?)

Lower that eyebrow! And the other one

oh work skirt... why do you mock me with your ugliness...?

Days 11, 12 & 13 Yippeee

2010-09-14T04:58:00.000-07:00

Oh boy have I been lazy the last Couple of days...

I can sum up the Self Stitched September activities with one picture...

Item 1: Self Stitched Stripey Top worn on day 11

Item 2: Hand Knitted slippers (From a friend) Worn day 12

Item 3: Self Stitching in Progress, Second Half of the 50's Orange Cardi

On day 14 I took the New Lady Grey out for a spin. Got lots of nice comments!

Have a nice day everyone :-)

Finito

2010-09-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

Finally Finished! More on this Lady Grey tomorrow...

Such a Perfect Day, Drink Sangria in the Park...on Day 10!

2010-09-11T18:09:00.000-07:00

Day 10 has come and gone already! And I'm definately running out of clothes to wear... must get stitching!

On day 10, Mr. Lovely took me shopping to Chapel Street to find a mannequin that he spotted a few days earlier. And it was still there! Woo, Its a solid wood 60's dress form and I got it for a steal at $190 !!!

Now I need a Name for her... Ideas Please!!??

Then we had some Japanese for lunch and headed to the city.

We trotted around the city stopping at Lush and a few other places & had a fancy beer at Beer Deluxe

... But the main attraction was yet to come...

Tessuti Fabrics, I have never been there before.... and it was amazing, I'm hooked.

Bolts of beautiful fabric everywhere. Designer silks, Japanese cottons, and gorgeous prints.

I could have taken it all home, But I couldn't fit it in my shopping bag....

Oh and I'm not as rich as Donald Trump, Thats always a downer.

So I just picked up Some silk (?) that was on sale for $10 a metre.

beautiful green, cream & orange

And I also picked up a stretch cotton for an upcoming project for a day of horse racing...

It looks like it has been painted, black brush strokes & light pink and grey tones on some of the flowers.

After drooling and spending way too much time dragging Mr. Lovely around Tessuti Fabrics ("Look at this one", "oooh Look at this one") It was time to leave, Sad face.

We took some photos in the graffiti Lane, as everybody does, these are my paparazzi shots for Day 10:

Me made 'Jenny Skirt' from Vintage Houndstooth, never mind the wrinkles....

We wandered around the city trying on perfume, looking at jewellry and scouring the vintage stores.

We found a new one (6 Days old) that had a select range of ladies vintage, They find it, fix any imperfections such as zippers and buttons and resell.

If you are in the city go to Harry Wragg. And if you go upstairs... You will find a button store!!!

I couldnt resist this nautical mini skirt, It was a perfect fit and the colours are so bright :-)

By this time we were tired. We went and had dinner at the Pancake Parlour

& then drove home for tea and dessert.... Such a perfect Day.

Groping a cartoon.... real mature

Wow this turned out to be a long post...

What did everybody else get up to on the weekend?

take care chickens :-)

ta ta

Dig Lazarus Dig!.... Days 8 & 9

2010-09-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

So its finally the end of the week! Woo hoo

In exciting sewing news...

Mr. Lovely is taking me shopping for a new dress form tomorrow. Gosh, could he get any better!

He spotted a 60's model made entirely of wood and in good nick, we shall go hunt it down tomorrow...

Days 8 & 9 are a little more exciting than the past few days because we had dinner dates both nights.

On day 8 we went out with our fellow classmates for a spot of thai and some vino.

The curry and conversation were good, but the walk home in the rain... not so good...

Mr. Lovely took a snap after the downpour

Day 8:

I wore my red Macaron dress, so comfy...

This is me hugging my current project, another version of the Lady Grey Coat by Colette Patterns .

I have made this before but the colour was too..... eh...something. Not quite right.

This version is in purple and grey tartan & is coming together nicely.

In this photo you can also spot:

a) a bike

b) a rack piled full of finished and unfinished sewing pieces

c) my poor used and abused dress form

d) a myriad of other mess...

Anywho

On day 9 we planned to go out for dinner but plans fell through and we ended up relaxing with some friends, ordering pizza & pasta and watching 'Dumb & Dumber' (Yes it's still funny).

So I opted for comfort.

Day 9:

This is just how I hang out on the doorstep....

This is a Cynthia Rowley for Simplicity pattern, and is good if you are feasting, Lots of room haha

And a flattering waistline.

So thats all in sewing news.... for now....

Thanks for all the lovely comments and encouragement,

Self Stitched September has been tougher than first thought, I'm just not organised enough!

But it is fun all the same.

How are the other SSS participants keeping up?

Good luck & See you in the soup...

Crikey! Day 7

2010-09-08T04:19:00.000-07:00

So I was running very late yesterday and got NO paparazzi shot... No good.

I was only wearing the navy cardi again, So you didn't miss out...

Today I wore a blouse using this pattern:

Mine isn't as pretty as the pattern picture, It was an early project but was so quick and easy, made up in a silver and gold lurex for some extra sparkle! I have made the scalloped version also, I'm a sucker for scallops!

Exhibit A:

ohh serious face

Thats all for taday chaps, its bed time...., zzzzzzzzz

Days 3, 4 & 5

2010-09-06T05:04:00.000-07:00

Phew! Its already day six!

Here are the outfits from days 3, 4 & 5, Don't get excited, I have been quite uncreative so far with SSS but have a couple of fun tops on the go to make things a bit prettier around her. But damn this work skirt is messing things up! And so is the cold weather.... I need too many layers

So on to Day 3:

And what a terrible bunchy, wrinkly photo it is...

And yes, this top IS as ill fitting in real life. This was one of my first projects ever, using Simplicity 1127

(I have made 2 more since in the sleeveless version with bows... They fit though! Such an easy pattern)

But here you have it. Again after work, in new shoes!

Day 4:

Weekend!!! Wooo. What to wear Saab shopping?

A pretty sleeveless blouse, using Simplicity 2593.

This is made from a grey, pink & creamy/mushroomy (mushroomy?) coloured Silk.

I made it for the trip to Darwin and it worked a treat...

Ohhh what a dark and mysterious photo.... or was that just the flash not going off???

This top is comfy and will be handy in Summer :-)

And finally >>>

Day 5:

Same pattern again.... But in black Faille. This top goes with everything. And I mean everything!

Especially high waisted skirts and pants....

Check out the dodgy charming slouch happening in this shot haha

Posture Renay! Posture!!!

Oh oh and The cushions.... Ten points if you can guess who made those...

And closer, so you can see the gathers and self made bias binding...

Thanks for listening peoples. And tomorrow..... I have the day off! to sew!

How is everybody going with Self Stitched September???

The Flickr Group is going off!

Have a good evening everyone, ciao now

Day TWO in the Jungle!

2010-09-02T04:37:00.000-07:00

Day two of Self Stitched September called for the winter coat!

But its spring... Come on weather catch up....

I was also wearing a me made singlet but you'll just have to believe me on that one...

The obligatory paparazzi shot >>>

Another scruffy after work shot... note to self: Get a haircut

This jacket was made using this pattern and it came together in about two or three days, So quick and easy, considering it was my first jacket.

It is interlined with warm flannelette and lined with a bright red silk lining (which I will have to get a picture of soon, its pretty). I found the buckle on Ebay from one of my favourite sellers, Its a really deep red bakelite but the photos doesn't really show that...

So thats it for day 2 kiddies.

I will be doing daily posts this week but next week I will do the outfit posts every few days so you're not all bored to death...

Hope your having a mighty fine Thursday peoples. The weekend is almost here!!!

I'm going Saab shopping, what about you guys???

Take care ox

Whew....

2010-09-01T04:52:00.000-07:00

So....

Its been a while!

I have been in sunny Darwin soaking up the warm and sunshine and NOT working. It was wonderful, but now I'm back.

After seeing two street performers having a battle and visiting Kakadu for a beautiful sunset, it was time to come home to the cold and rainy weather! (Boo Hoo).

But the good news is we (me and my photographer) are back just in time for Self Stitched September!!!

Yay

But I did come back to a very messy sewing room >>>

Trims trims trims everywhere!

So the sewing mojo was wavering due to NOT wanting to tidy anything (Still in holiday mode)

So I had a bit of a read....

Inspiration

And all of a sudden the mojo came back!

So I did a quick clean up and got cracking on another shirt for my lovely gent.

The man picked the fabric again, and did a good job yet again. Well done sir!

Above:Meet my Pfaff "Penelope"

The pattern was another Ebay grab:

I'm starting to love sewing shirts! whenever I see nice plaids or stripes I think SHIRTS!

I am sewing version 1 with the button down collar in the pretty.... I mean..manly plaid fabric (above) we picked it up in Darwin.

The only problem is there are no instructions for the sleeve plackets..... It just says cut two strips and it has a really confusing picture..........and then....

.................

.................................

....Tumbleweed........

........................

So after slight frustration it was time for a cup of tea.

And to prepare for Self Stitched September!

Since I have to wear a company skirt or trousers to work Monday to Friday, it may be quite challenging.

I will have to find all of my tops and probably make a few more too.

Eek!

But since today was the first day, here is the hard evidence, The paparazzi shot >>>

So thats me on day 1, fresh home from work, disheveled, grumpy and yelling at my lovely man to

"take a photo take a photo!"

The self made item is the cardi. Made using: Design it Yourself Clothes Book by Cal Patch.

It is made from a warm stretchy fleece type fabric (thats the technical term... not) and is so warm.

It looks a little wrinkled in this photo... and the garden does look a little overgrown now you mention it.

Oh and thats the lovely work skirt! tee hee

So thats all folks!

Hope your all well and happy :-)

What is everybody sewing???

Excuse me...

2010-08-19T18:15:00.001-07:00

For the lack of posts,
I am interstate.
Posting will resume as normal after the weekend!
Can't wait to check out what everybody has been working on...
Take care ladies and gents :-)

Exciting News...

2010-08-03T04:36:00.000-07:00

Long time no post...

Renay has been a busy little lady.

Work, Study & Housework make Renay a dull girl.....

Okay, enough of talking in the third person. They say its one of the first signs of being a serial killer... eep

So I have hardly had time to sew. The shirt from the previous post is almost done, just needs buttons... photos will be posted soon (I promise...)

I am also trying to work on a birthday dress (My birthday is Friday, Excitement!)

I wish I had more hours in the day, does anybody else have this problem? I'm sure you all do :-)

But anyway. Now. For. The. Exciting. News.

I got my motorbike permit! woo hoo

I'm looking at vintage bikes like so....

so what to wear when riding these babies??? That is the question my friends....

Hope you are having a great week!!!

What is everybody up to?

Love in the Mail

2010-07-26T04:08:00.000-07:00

Today was a marvelous day. I came home for lunch and checked the mail and there were 3 packages. Thats right 3!!! A Book and two patterns. woo hoo!

Here's the loot....

I have wanted a crisp and sexy shirt for a while now,

I'm planning on version 2 in a similar fabric. I even have a skirt and belt the same as the picture.... Meant to be....

also...

Tulip pockets and scallops... who could want more?

I have the prettiest italian cotton voile for this pattern, with brown and red tones. Can't wait to start chop chopping into it.

Maybe for my birthday cocktails next week? Could this be a cocktail dress???

hmmm

And the book, A memoir in 39 apartments. It's good so far.

Hope everybody has a good week, what is everybody sewing?

I'll be starting the shirt tomorrow and will post an update ;-)

Take care kittens ox

Everyones a winner baby... well... almost....

2010-07-24T02:39:00.000-07:00

The winners have been drawn... Out of my gents hat none the less....

Sophie Miriam has been drawn for pattern #1

The Ingenious Indigenous for pattern #2

& La Dama for the purse!

Winners please email me your postal address and the prized will be sent out next week, If I do not receive your addressed within 3 days I will have to redraw that particular prize :- )

Thank you to everybody who entered, I saw some very pretty dresses! (In particular Bessie B's choice of a beautiful 50's cocktail dress.... drool... I'm in love)

Stay tuned for more giveaways, there are plenty more patterns up for grabs!!!

Renay

Suspense!

2010-07-23T20:51:00.001-07:00

Winners announced tonight, stay tuned!

Ruffles & Roses

2010-07-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

The lovely lady over at Ruffles & Roses is having a lovely red skirt giveaway and there is still time to enter, It is being drawn on Sunday, So head on over to her gorgeous blog and become a follower and you could be in the running for this...

She also has great tutorials that are so easy to follow.

Have a great day peoples :-)

Polly Danger

2010-07-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon a lovely little Etsy store the other day called Notions By Polly Danger and wanted to give her a mention here because she sent such a nice parcel.

I ordered three lots of her pretty patterned handmade bias tape (It was so hard because I wanted them all) and waited patiently for the postman!

Then... Such a lovely package arrived with cute little details

The bias tape was much prettier in person and I Can't wait to use it. (I have some ideas)

And she even sent me a little gift :-)

An iron on birdie...

So thank you Polly!

If anybody needs terrific trims or beautiful buttons head over to her store!

I highly recommend...

Still time to enter the Giveaway, which is drawn on Friday.

Have a Lovely week peoples :-)

Sweet as Cherry Pie

2010-07-18T02:45:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a few tutorials lately about making a pattern from an existing piece of clothing in your wardrobe and have been wanting to give it a try. I have had this cute top in my wardrobe for years but it was getting very worn and the zipper decided to catch on the fabric every time it was done up. Annoying!

So I thought I'd test out the pattern making technique on this little baby. Here's what I did...

Firstly...

Took out the craptastic zipper and the straps (they only button on so that wasn't too much of a workout!)

Secondly...

Took off all the buttons and started to unpick the little sucker.... (whilst carefully trying to remember how it needed to be sewn together...I couldn't reaaallly be bothered trying to write it all down).

Also trying to dodge threads, they always like to stick to black!

How unfortunate... I'm still finding thread all over the house

Then....

Set out the pieces on the new fabric and chop chopped it all out! I had to re-draft some of the pieces that were a bit too skewed to use.

All that was left to do then, was sew it all together. And Bob's your uncle.

And ta da! A brand new top in just a couple of hours...AND recycled the buttons

Very satisfying after trying to make the lovely little Butterick number a couple of posts ago and FAILING miserably! Looks like its muslin time...

I'm fussy with cherry prints and always see lots of dodgy ones but this one I thought was a bit cute and snapped it up.

Anywho, There's still time (Til Friday) for all of you to enter the Giveaway so get your skates on :-)

Hope you all had a great weekend! I'll be back soon with a new flaming red dress which is almost finished!

Ciao now

Drum roll please.... Its GIVEAWAY TIME! Purse lovers and Pattern Users Rejoice!

2010-07-15T05:40:00.000-07:00

Since The long and winding bobbin blog has been going for just over a month now, I have decided a little giveaway is in order!

I am so excited to have 28 followers (ok so it doesn't sound like many but considering I thought that I wouldn't even make it to 5 its good. And you are all so cool and unique!)

Cheers!

Whats up for grabs???

Firstly:

Item #1

Simplicity 3744: Cute 6 gore pencil skirt with waistband and left side zipper closing

3 versions: soft pleats, kick pleats, bow sash

Size 26 inch waist (for you tiny girls!)

Item #2

Vogue 8754: Lovely Slim skirt or dress with sleeveless bodice and welt pocket at side

flattering low round neckline, front and back! ( I have made this up, Its nice to work with)

And lastly

item #3

A cute little handmade purse that I picked up overseas

Made from a denim type fabric with crochet cherries! so cute

Has pretty bright green cotton lining and a kiss lock closure

Okay! The rules are as follows:

You know the drill, You need to be a follower of The long and winding bobbin

Just leave a comment with a link to your favourite dress pattern at the moment (or dress) & which prize you want to win (item #1, #2 or #3)

If you post this giveaway on your blog You will receive an extra entry! (Make sure you leave a second comment with a link to your post)

Entrants are welcome from across the globe, I will post to any country :-)

The 3 winners will be announced Next Friday 23rd July at Midday (Australian Eastern Standard Time)

Winners need to send me their postal address within 3 days end of the competition!

So spread the word peoples, the more entries the merrier!!!

Thank you lovely followers :-)

Help! I need some buttons, not just any buttons...

2010-07-13T00:08:00.000-07:00

Okay so it's not spring. Its cold and rainy winter. But this jacket is in preparation...
The Lady Grey is quite the time consuming project. I spent half of today on the lining alone. But this is looking ok so far. All thats left to do is the bottom hem and sleeve hems and.... It needs buttons!

I'd like to know what you guys think... any suggestions, I'm stumped...

Here is the jacket so far...

Maybe red to match the lining? Thoughts?

Hustling and Brussling

2010-07-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

Good Monday morning peoples, How was your weekend?

I had a cracker of a time, My lovely man took me on a date into the city on Saturday night to a little bar called Madame Brussels (You should really check it out if you are ever in Melbourne). Have a look at their website! It has a whole story on the history of Madame Brussels ( An ex brothel owner in Melbourne).

Here is a picture of the inside bar:

It was like stepping back in time. Fake grass, garden path, great music & waiters dressed in retro wimbeldon attire. And the drinks were amazing. Amazing! My man had a gin martini (I can't drink them, blegh! But he loves them) and we shared a few jugs of different punches. They were delicious. My favourite was a maraschino and gin punch with vermouth and soda... and something else I can't quite remember. We got a bit peckish and decided to try out their poached chicken, chive & Mayo toasted sandwich (recommended) and also the double smoked ham and cheese. Very tasty, and it hit the spot! We stayed there all night chatting and drinking and being merry.

Can't wait to go back and sit on the rooftop terrace when it gets a bit warmer, although the waiters do hand out blankets when it gets a bit chilly, how sweet.

Afterwards we went back to our lovely room at the citadenes and watched a movie (The Beach) and slept like logs!

On Sunday we had a lovely pancake breakfast and did a spot of shopping. I picked up:

From Route 66 (50% storewide sale thank you!), A cute little sailor cardi. (complete with flap!)

& this pretty little high waisted and pleated skirt (It came with a great belt but you cant see it in the photo)

So after all the walking around we were both getting weary, and decided it was home time, I was in great need of a cup of tea and a sewing session to relax.

I scored some great (And very very cheap) fabric from the Alannah Hill outlet store on Brunswick Street for some current projects, I'm not sure what type of fabric it is because they are not labelled but they feel great.

I got some lovely mustard coloured fabric for the Lady Grey by Collette Patterns (I know, I'm like a broken record, but they are great!). And some beautiful silk lining in the most vivid red!

(The mustard is much brighter than the photo)

I'm about half way through and its going swimmingly, although I havn't started on the lining yet....

There is lots of pretty topstitching, princess seams and that giant collar!

Also on the go....

A little 50's number in a dark royal type blue, I'm doing the dress, minus the jacket. I have cut it out and its ready to go... exciting!

So thats all folks. Have a great Monday and rest of the week!

What has everybody else been up to???

I didn't forget about the sunshine shrug... & Andi B. Goode Giveaway!

2010-07-07T04:27:00.000-07:00

The knitting project is still going and taking a long time...
It has 230 odd stitches per row!
I'm not hating the colour yet, give me a few days and ask me again though tee hee
About a quarter of the way through so far.

In other exciting news...

The lovely Andrea over at Andi B. Goode is having a great giveaway over at her blog. You should go have a looksy, her blog is a great read and she is oh so cute and stylish.

Style Icon - Alannah Hill

2010-07-05T04:04:00.000-07:00

So Peter and Sarah got me thinking about style icons....

I have many, and often get inspiration from random people in the street or on the online... errr street?

Here is one major icon,

Alannah Hill

Lace, hearts, stockings, red lipstick... her clothes are like a dream. Floaty, Fascinating & oh so girly.

She moved from Tasmania to Melbourne when she was 16 ("with a suitcase full of costumes" she says) and literally walked into some boutiques selling her ideas. It seems to have worked for her..

I love love love pretty much anything that she designs, beautiful floaty dresses, pretty skirts, bags, fur (fake, but still beautiful. I don't think I could wear a real fox and feel good about it...I used to have these dreams.... but thats another story...)

Going in to one of Alannah Hill's stores is an experience in itself. There is lush velvet everywhere, soft feminine music and her gorgeous delicate designs all around. The decor is magical and there are cabinets full of amazing jewellry and accessories.

Oh I'm in love.... I recommend everybody check her out, ASAP! The clothes are well made and worth the (Sometimes Hefty) pricetag.

I don't even mind not eating for a week (possibly 3) to add another AH piece to the collection (tee hee)

I will leave you with some eye candy, have a nice night ladies and gents!

Skirts Skirts Skirts

2010-07-04T03:30:00.000-07:00

Here is the finished skirt...

The fabric was a .99c score from ebay. Batik, with a pretty peacock pattern, very pretty.

The best bit about the skirt is that is has big pockets, and the curvy top is very flattering (it reminds me of lips for some reason....?)

It took about 2.5 - 3 hours to make, Quick and easy! So I made another one!

Turns out, I have a skirt fetish....

Here are 3 different ones using Burda's Jenny Skirt

Hope everybodys weekend was great!

Outfit Posts soon...

Sneek Peek

2010-07-02T01:37:00.000-07:00

Something on the go...

Ohhhh Loook

2010-06-29T01:27:00.000-07:00

A find at the markets today.... I was talking about getting one of these and 5 minutes later a friend pointed out this little beauty...

It appeared out of nowhere and cried out for me to take it home. Who am I to argue?

It is like brand new and works like a dream. So excited to set my hair with it on the weekend!!! eeek

Advance 8047

2010-06-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

Good morning Sunshines!

It's Tuesday and I have the day off from work. Just about to go to the Big Mill Markets in town and see if i can find some new old patterns! And get stuck into a day of sewing. I have already cut out 2 skirts!

I have been digging around some old pictures and thought I would share some of my older projects... If you care to take a look....

First is Advance 8047, Which I had serious pattern lust after seeing kamikat's version on the Fedora Lounge. So I snapped it up straight away!

My version...

This is one of the first dress patterns that I ever tried. I didn't make a muslin (I rarely do unless it is a pattern that I have drafted myself). I had only made skirts and singlets before and this seemed to be hard to follow, at first, with the vintage instructions that were half worn off! I used a bengaline suiting that hangs quite nicely but it also "lightish" to wear in the summer. It came in a rainbow of colours and I got some in red also. (To make the Colette "ceylon" dress coming up later in this post).

It seemed to come together and was finished within 2 days. I love the neckline and the colour and it fits perfectly which was lucky... although next time I will make it a more pencil skirt, its quite straight.

I'm hoping to make another version soon as I have been staring at this one for almost a year! eek.

Secondly, Some of my Colette dresses.

2 "Macaron's" (I have plans for more!) and A "Ceylon". I get a lot of wear out of the first two but the Ceylon is yet to see daylight, It is not as flattering on me as the others.

So have a nice Tuesday peoples and I will show you some goodies later if I find some....

Progress on the Sunshine Shrug...

2010-06-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

Manly Mens Shirts

2010-06-26T21:27:00.000-07:00

So I thought maybe it was time to make somebody else some clothes. I'm always neglecting my lovely man with those long hours hidden away in my sewing room, so he was first on the list. I made a coupe of shirts using this pattern that i found on ebay (I think) (also, Cowboys are right up my alley!)

He picked the fabric himself and did a mighty fine job if I do say so myself. A nice brown check cotton and some pinwale cord for the yokes. This is the result of the better part of a days sewing (and fighting with the sleeve plackets. For some reason the instructions seemed REALLY confusing, but when I read them now they make perfect sense.... idiot!)

Here is shirt #1:

And Shirt #2 from a cotton voile with olive green, blue, black & white checks:

This one is not finished yet as you may be able to tell by the raggedy anne sleeves (look ma' no hands!) and the lack of buttons...

These came together quite quickly and he has already worn the brown one (yes in public) so he must like it a little bit....

I will be posting again later with a catch up post on some older projects.... I'm off to the sewing room AKA "the abyss" or "black hole" haha

ta ta

oxox

Next project!

2010-06-20T02:57:00.000-07:00

Coming up next....

The Sunshine shrug pattern. Thanks Lisette for the pretty pattern. Cant wait to start knitting it up. Oh and it is all on single point needles which is handy. I have pretty and oh so soft orange mohair that I think will work fine and dandy!

I'll keep this post nice and short since it is sunday night!

Hope everybodys weekend was great. Will be posting some more pictures during the week :-)

so be good everyone, or be good at it

Hair, there, everywhere

2010-06-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

After reading the book "Vintage Hairstyling" by Lauren Rennells, I felt like fooling around with my locks.
This is not one of the actual styles but just a little play around, looks pretty ridiculous.
Turns out that I need practice with smoothing the rolls and also hiding the bobby pins! how do they do that???

Check. It. Out.

2010-06-17T20:28:00.000-07:00

My lovely man never ceases to amaze me with his well picked gifts.

Yesterday I came home, he made me close my eyes and hold out my hands.

I opened them to find this... I'm in love.... oh and my lovely man is alright too...

How cute is it!

Happy Friday :-)

knit knit purl

2010-06-17T05:39:00.000-07:00

Hit me with your rhythm knitting stick

Some of my scarves on the go. Feather and fan (red), April Showers (pink), Swiss Fan Lace (magenta)

And some goodies in the mail today....

And some recent purchases....

happy Thursday peoples :-D

Projects...

2010-06-16T03:49:00.000-07:00

hmmm where to start..? ok the leapord cardi/jacket, I started it mid last week and itt is almost done. It still needs buttons and button holes but other than that....

The fabric is from spotlight believe it or not and it is a lovely stretch velour haha (It reminds me of Kath and Kim for some reason....). I was in a long line for the cutting counter and saw it on the way... its a dangerous road getting to the counter - Must dodge pretty pre cut fat quarters, Go past the trims and the discount table. tisk tisk. Its times like those that you need tunnel vision.

The pattern was drafted by myself using This book by Cal Patch (which is brilliant by the way), I have only tried drafting once or twice before and this book makes it simple somehow. This is the second version of the "betty jacket" that I've tried (The first is a comfy black one for work) and they fit like a dream! Think I will try the pants pattern next.... should be a challenge.... are they really as scary as they seem?

So, as it was a long weekend I hit the sewing machine, dusting off the fluff from the velour, cup of tea in one hand and a slight hint of lager on my breath after a big day of brewing beer the day before. I decided to make a nice light dress. Ok so I know its winter here at the moment. But my lovely man got us tickets to Darwin and the first thing I thought of was dresses. Light, airy, loose dresses. (I was in Thailand for almost 2 months last year and was NOT prepared for the heat at all!

The pattern I used for this dress has been in my stash for a few weeks its Simplicity 2406

The fabric was a soft cotton voile in a mushroom like colour and the facings were a light pink faille. They seemed to work together but I couldn't quite catch it in the pics. I'm liking the sash and the little hexagonal button that I found in my button stash.

It was quite quick and easy and there were no issues (besides only having black serger thread...bugger!). I have a couple of the other Cynthia Rowley patterns to whip up sometime soon.

Thats all for today ladies and gents and all in betweeen, stay tuned for some knitting tomorrow. I have three scarves on the go and keep making promises for more....

take care :-D

Look what arrived today.... a bundle of joy...

2010-06-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

A pretty little purse frame!

Can't wait to make up this little baby using This tutorial....

I have some cherry lining, still deciding on a shell fabric. ideas???

JACKET PREVIEW! ohhh

2010-06-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

Last night I started on a jacket made of this fabric......

Its so soft and will be fully lined with some pretty butons....

More to come soon, should be finished by end of tomorrow :-D

P.s. Thats my 'first thing in the morning' face.

Hoping the weekend is going swimmingly for you all.

Will be posting some more pics tomorrow so stay tuned.

Thats all folks...

The glorious Birth of The needle & thread blog

2010-06-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

ohh! its a girl.....

Life is swell.

My name is Renay and I am the only one I know who sews and knits (my friends call me grandma) and I am in desperate need to talk needles and bobbins with other like minded people.

So, I'm setting up this blog mostly in preparation for 'Self Stitched September', since i participated in me made may but did NOT document any of it. Silly girl. But also to get some motivation and inspiration from you guys!

I will be making a few posts in the next few days about what I have been sewing/knitting/doing.

So drop by and shoot me a comment, I would love to hear from you all :-D

Have a good Thursday!