My button fell off, again. Not the same button, but a button from a dearly loved garment. Luckily it fell off in my presence and I was able to catch it. Buttons fall off store bought garments because they are sewn on by machines and machines can’t knot a thread properly. Sorry, robots, that’s just […] Read more…
Diaper Changing Pad Clutch, From Jordana Paige
The diaper bag I owned when I was a new mom came with a small removable changing pad. It was super handy and as my baby grew into a toddler and I didn’t need to bring the whole bag, I would still take that pad and a couple of diapers. So when I saw Jordana […] Read more…
Making a Purse From a Leather Skirt
My friend, Sheila, always looks great and when complimented her on her clothing she’ll tell you which thrift or consignment store it came from. She has the best of luck at such places but she says it’s not luck; it’s just being there too often. Apparently this must be true because her sisters threw her […] Read more…
Your Style
It’s been forever since I’ve written a book report and I’m only 1/3 into the book but I’m really enjoying “The Thoughtful Dress” by Linda Grant and it’s making me think about clothes (even more than usual). I am becoming more aware of how we all communicate with our choice of dress. And Linda says […] Read more…
Sewer’s Block
Is there such thing as sewer’s block? Like writer’s block except it’s the temporary inability to compose with fabric instead of words. Lately, I have found myself avoiding my sewing machine. Instead, I have found myself cleaning the house more, or reading more, or cooking more but not sewing. Am I experiencing a creative block? […] Read more…
Gifts to Sew – Gifts I’ve Sewn
Gift giving season is approaching and every year I try to make some of the gifts I give. I do it because I enjoy making things. Long ago I thought it would save money to make some of the gifts I gave but with all the sales that go on this time of year, I’m […] Read more…
Pegging Men’s Suit Pants
My husband has always worn flat front pegged pants. Even though currently this style is easier to find in the stores, sometimes ready to wear pants are just shy of being how he likes them. So was the case with a recent pair of suit pants. Banana Republic makes a great, trim fitting, men’s suit. […] Read more…
Hemming Ready-to-Wear Pants
I have a girlfriend who ordered some pants that were just too long. She asked me if I knew a good alterations place. “Uh, no, but I know me.” Here’s how I go about hemming ready to wear pants, no double stick tape necessary. Have the pants owner put them on. Fold up the extra […] Read more…
Taking Up From the Top Down
Shortening a skirt is pretty straight forward. Fold up the appropriate amount of excess skirt at the hem. Trim off any fabric that is more than you need for turning under a new hem and hem it. My skirt, too long as it was, could not be taking up at the bottom for it had […] Read more…
Mend It Better
Mend It Better by Kristin M. Roach I picked up this book from my local library. The title caught my eye. Mending? That’s not very trendy or glamorous. Up-cycling is trendy. Fixing what you already own? Not so much. This book is full of practical tips and instructions. It also has projects, like a pouch […] Read more…