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------- {Mabel Madison Monday} -------

featuring

Pink Rosette in Black by Verhees



Welcome back to {Mabel Madison Monday}!

Today's featured fabric is Pink Rosette in Black by Verhees.  There are tiny rosette clusters on a black background with tiny white pin dots.  This knit has a nice medium weight with a 4-way stretch and is 95% cotton/5% Lycra.

I have good news and bad.... the bad is that the black colorway has since been sold out from Mabel Madison.  The good news is that one lucky person can snap up the remaining 1.75 yd in the BLUE colorway and it's on sale through today only.  (This is enough to make up to a girl's size 10 in the Library Cardi).

I actually used this knit to make myself this dress at the beginning of summer.   I love how it turned out and is beyond comfortable to wear.  I saved my leftovers, waiting for the perfect pattern to showcase it once again.


When the testing for the Library Cardi, by Little Lizard King came, I thought it [pink rosette in black] would make a really cute cardigan that could be the focal point of the outfit, rather than be just a matching sweater.  At first, I contemplated using the same rosettes for the binding.  I consulted Cassie (who designed the cardigan) and she really loved the pink.  Then I had second thoughts and consulted my husband, who also thought pink was perfect for the binding.  I guess it was unanimous! haha


Funny story:  I excitedly showed my husband that our daughter had been listed as the main photo on LLK's website for the Library Cardi listing and he nonchalantly replied, "You're welcome.  It's because I told you to use the pink for the contrast that they used your photo."    

Yep, that's the only reason...haha

But I digress...


If roses aren't really your thing, there are plenty of knits to choose at Mabel Madison, including Art Gallery knits too!  These knits are so easy to work with and I've found that they shrink less than some of the "cheaper" knits.  When using knit, it is much better to go with a good, quality knit.  Not only will they last longer, they sew up so much nicer which means your final product looks as intended and remains that way through the many washes over its lifetime.


Today is the LAST day for the Mabel Madison Birthday Celebration too -- that means the sale prices are through TODAY only and it's your LAST chance to get your name in to WIN from these awesome sponsors!   Head HERE for more details!!




{Blog Tour} The Paneled Sunsuit "It's not Just a Sunsuit" Blog Tour


When I got the sweetest email from Call Ajaire buttering me up paying me compliments on my sewing, I had to say yes to her "Not Just a Sunsuit" tour!  (Blog tour managers .... take notice! Hahaha -- and yes, I know everyone on the tour received the same compliment-laden email.  It was still very sweet and very much got my attention). 

The Paneled Sunsuit by Call Ajaire is l-o-a-d-e-d with options -- 10 of them to be exact..

Source: Call Ajaire Blog

Like I mentioned, LOADS of choices!  It took me a bit of time to think through my process as to what I wanted my outfit to portray.  I knew I'd be sewing for my 4 year old because my 6 year old got an entire collection just yesterday.


I also knew that I'd be using this fun apple print (Apples for Teacher Red- Stenzo - from Mabel Madison).  She will love showing up to Pre-K with apples on her clothes.  As she would tell you, she is a fan of apples. Haha

She is also a fan of skirts (read: RARELY wears pants) and an even bigger fan of pockets.  


You know, so her bunny can tag along sometime :)  This led me to making View J with pockets.


I think I spent as much time painstakingly fussy cutting the pocket fabric as I did sewing the entire skirt only to discover that the gathered waist would totally throw it off.  If you know what a pattern matching fanatic I am, you know I totally nailed it pre-elastic down to the last teensy weensy stripe :P


In order to take this pattern and present it in a way that in no way resembles a sunsuit, I opted to pair this slim a-line skirt with a simple white tank top (thank you Target Clearance) and a long, slouchy cardigan (Library Cardi -- coming today to Little Lizard King).  


I will definitely be sewing up some more views from this pattern.  The fit is great (spot on with the charts included) and the instructions are very detailed! As you can see, my daughter is ecstatic that this skirt is all hers!   Plus, I've gotten some great inspiration from the bloggers before me and am anxiously waiting to peek at the rest on tour.


What choices would you make to take the Paneled Sunsuit to "Not Just a Sunsuit"? 



SALE ALERT

Call Ajaire is offering a 15% discount on her patterns!  You can use the code SUNSUIT15 both at UpCraft Club and Etsy through the 7th of September.

She is offering a 20% discount code in the Designs by Call Ajaire Facebook group so join us there

If you enter the giveaway below and win one of her patterns, Ajaire will happily refund your purchase so don't hesitate.

_________________________________________


4 LUCKY readers will win a copy --- are feeling lucky today?!  Enter below :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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For more "Not Just a Sunsuit" Paneled Sunsuit inspiration, please check out all these awesome bloggers on the tour too!

Monday August 24th:  Max California | Filles à Maman | Hey June | House of Estrela
Tuesday August 25th: Skirt Fixation | Gracious Threads | Kimmie Sew Crazy | Shaffer Sisters
Wednesday August 26th: Kid Approved | Pinkel | Falafel and the Bee | Once Upon a Sewing Machine
Thursday August 27th: Buzzmills | Pattern Revolution | Sprouting JubeJube | Mandmade Martini
Friday August 28th: That's Sew Kari | Lulu & Celeste | Paisley Roots | Modern Handmade

Monday August 31st: Sew Cool for the Tween Scene | Kadiddlehopper | Imagine Gnats | Nap Time Creations
Tuesday September 1st: My Sweet Sunshine | Straight Stitch Designs | Handmade Boy | That's What She Crafted
Wednesday September 2nd: Climbing the Willow | Rebel & Malice | GYCT Designs | Two-Many
Thursday September 3rd: The Crazy Tailor | sewVery | Just Add Fabric | Delia Creates
Friday September 4th: A Jennuine Life | Conversas de Hermanas | Made by Sara | Not Sew Fast

{Blog Tour} Sew 'N Style Mini Collection with Lil Luxe


A month ago, Lil Luxe Collection began a new sewing series  -- entitled "Sew 'n Style Mini Collection".  Last week began the 6-week long blog tour sharing what we've created and I am so honored to be a stop along the way.  The premise of the series is to create a 3-piece Mini Collection with a cohesive theme, with at least half of your pieces coming from Lil Luxe.

Fun, right?!  Did I mention you can create your own #sewNstyleluxeseries Mini Collection and enter the linky party for a chance to win some fabulous prizes! (Read all the way to the end for details)

Lil Luxe Patterns ooze fashion and style -- and were perfect for building a mini collection to send my budding fashionista off to First Grade.

Without further ado... here is my "First Grade Fashionista" Mini Collection.  My inspiration came from her school colors and mascot, Archie the Cardinal.  Every other Friday is "Spirit Day" and now she'll have several outfits to fashionably show her school spirit!

{Outfit #1} Sleek and Chic






Patterns:

Fabrics chosen:
  • Jacket: Mystery twill from Walmart [Sidenote: I do not recommend a twill for this -- especially one that does not iron well]
  • Tee: Black and White striped cotton/Lycra from Funkalicious Fabrics
  • Trousers: Red Stretch Poplin from Mabel Madison

Notes: I modified the sleeve cuff on the Lakeshore Crop.  The mystery twill was not cooperating with the original sleeve cuffs so I decided I would mimic the bottom of the front opening.  I love how it turned out!  

The pants ended up a bit too snug (my error) and will be getting remade in a larger size and with  ankle zippers.  Luckily, they fit her little sister so all is not lost.


{Outfit #2} Stylish in Stripes



Patterns:

Fabrics chosen:

Notes:  The only change I made was using an 1/8" ribbon for the button loop on the Tobago.



{Outfit #3} Friday Fashion Star

*Disclaimer: These pants are store-bought.  This top was originally paired with the 
Red Slim Trousers (shown in Outfit 1), but after pictures, I felt the outfit needed more black in it.  
Due to deadlines, I did not have time to re-sew the Slim Trousers in black.


Pattern:

Fabrics chosen:


Before you go...



Read more about the Sew ’n Style Series and visit the contest page with Link up where we have contest prizes totaling over $350 from our gracious sponsors.



So, how did I do?  Is my First Grader a fashionista?  



{SNEAK PEEK} - The Schatje Skirt

Pattern by The Eli Monster



JUMP. FOR. JOY...

I am so excited to give you a sneak peek at the Schatje Skirt by The Eli Monster.  This versatile skirt features a flat front, elastic back; side seam pockets and a deep 2" hem.  It comes in 3 lengths (above knee, tee, and maxi) and covers sizes 12m - girls 14.  The waist seams are fully enclosed making the skirt almost as pretty on the inside!


The skirt sews up rather nicely.  The waist was sewn differently than how I'd have thought to sew it, but it was easy to follow along and learn a new technique along the way.  There is an included size size chart as well as a finished measurements chart.  I made a size 2 waist with a 4 length for my little Miss 6 (remember, she's petite for her age).  The fit is spot on!


The moment I saw the call for testers, I knew what fabric I'd use if I got picked.  I originally bought this striped fabric for a skirt for myself -- inspired by this picture on Pinterest.  I may have just enough leftover to make my own!

For my daughter, I styled it with a "lucky-find clearanced" jean jacket from Target. white tank top and red rain boots (for a pop of color). A low side pony tail, a trio of flowers (from One Thimble Issue 8) and a pair of sunglasses complete the look.



In my opinion, the skirt has the perfect amount of gathering.  It turned out exactly as I envisioned and my daughter LOVES it (clearly from her pictures).


Look for it's release TOMORROW TODAY (8.25.15) -- you'll love it!!

Need more inspiration?? Check out the maxi length over on the designer's blog!


BLOG TOUR: One Thimble -- Issue 8

****This post contains affiliate links.  If you purchase though my link, I may receive a small commission. 
All opinions in this review are 100% mine.****


I am so excited to be joining the One Thimble E-zine Blog Tour this time around!  I'm showing off a few of the items I made from the patterns included as well as a general review of the entire e-zine.

One Thimble is an online sewing magazine that comes out quarterly, with a price tag of just $25 AUD (that means depending on the day, it's around $18 US ;) ).  In addition to the several patterns each issue contains (generally 6-10), there are many articles on general sewing, mini tutorials on sewing techniques, and how to grow your sewing business.  Each issue also has coupon codes exclusive to OT readers.  (Full review below)  Fun, right?!

Let's start with what I made!


When I first saw the patterns included, I knew I'd have to make the Cosmos (Reversible) Skirt and Purse set.  This sweet little skirt and purse set is by Sew Maris Designs (new to me) and covers sizes 2t-10.  It features a scalloped hem and fold-over elastic waistband.  It is reversible as written in the pattern.  BUT...


I chose to make my skirt non-reversible.  Why, you ask?  Because I'm a rule breaker...lol.  No, really, I was using FOE and fabrics only from my stash and I didn't have many choices that matched red/white polka dot FOE.  Instead, I used the bottom portion of the pattern piece and made a facing for the bottom hem.  I was able to sew the hem perfectly between the rows of toadstools so it's not even noticeable.

For my fabric, these little toadstools (Dotty Toadstools - Black - Stenzo Poplin) are from Mabel Madison (of course, right?! LOL) and was the perfect choice for this skirt.  If you look closely, the toadstools are perfectly spaced to each scallop.  It's fate, I tell you.

This pattern prints in layers, in black and white and is easy to follow each step.  The fit and measurement chart were spot on for me as well.


And the purse?  I couldn't help but make a whimsical version to match the toadstools on her skirt.  I freehand cut the green felt to mimic the grass and sewed it on the front piece and then constructed the purse as written.  I used a white twill for the body, red/white polka dot for the flap and the matching toadstool fabric for the inner flap.  The pattern called for twill tape inside the strap, but I didn't have any.  Whoops.  I used red double folded bias tape and sewed white ric rac on top which gave it just the right stability.


I also knew I'd try out the Coco Flower Crown by Molly and Mama (new to me), but I wanted to make sure it was something they could wear to school. I decided I would add the flowers onto an elastic headband in lieu of the tied ribbon as the pattern instructs.  The elastic headband makes it easy for each girl to adjust throughout the day, if needed.   My 6 year old's school colors happen to be black, white, and red so this not only matches my 4 year old's toadstool Cosmos Skirt, but will be just the thing to corral my oldest's hair on Spirit Day every other Friday.

Quite possibly the most fashionable 1st grader --- ever...LOL

I did not have easy access to wool felt (but the designer lists her favorite suppliers in the pattern) so I used regular craft felt and then hot glued a little button inside the flowers, purely for personal preference.  The pattern comes with patterns for 7 types of succulents and 6 different flowers.  To make my trio, I used Succulent #6 (red & black) and Succulent #1 (white).

All 13 of the pattern pieces print out on two pages.  I'm storing my pattern pieces in a little Ziploc bag so I can reuse them over and over.  I'm going to check into the wool felt resources the designer mentioned too because wool felt is so pretty.


This is not my first time enjoying the One Thimble E-zine, but each time I get it, I am amazed at everything that is included.

Inside Issue 8:

You will receive the following PDF patterns/tutorials:

  •  Amber Swing Dress (size 1-10)
  • Coco Flower Crown (6 flowers & 7 succulents)*
  • Little Collector Backpack (12″/30cm tall)
  • Butterfly Blouse (size 2T-14)
  • Swing Set Skort (size 2T-14)
  • Jackalope Tee (size 2-14)
  • Oasis Quilt (52″ x 38″ / 132cm x 96.5cm)
  • Cosmos Skirt (size 2-10)
  • Cosmos Purse
  • Cactus Wallart *
  • Desert Fox Softie (8″/20cm) *
  • Fat Red Bird Fedora (size s-xl / 18.5″ – 23.25″ / 47cm – 59cm)

*Requires handsewing

In the e-zine you’ll also find the following articles & tutorials:

  • How to make an adjustable bag strap
  • How to use your quilting ruler
  • How to make a button clock
  • How to turn a softie into a doorstop
  • How to make a lined snack bag
  • How to make a stitchidori
  • How to add a fake placket to a skirt or dress
  • How to create quality pins
  • How to create a stylized photoshoot
  • How to teach your children to sew
  • Trending fabrics and much more!
[Source: One Thimble shop]

I really enjoyed sitting on the couch, sipping my coffee and reading through the entire magazine on my tablet.  Reading through all of the patterns was really inspiring.  I'm really intrigued (and intimidated) by the Oasis Quilt.  The way it actually comes together isn't how I pictured it.  I wonder if I can pull it off?!

There's even an article from my friend, Cassie from Lily Shine Boutique and designer for Little Lizard King.  I fought back the urge to shout out "I know her!!" (and just maybe it will inspire me to submit my own article.)  Her article is "Creating a Stylized Photoshoot" and was a great read.  As I delve more and more into photography, I will put her recommendations into practice.

My girls are most excited about the article submitted by Gemia of Phat Quarters -- "Teaching Kids to Sew".  My oldest got a sewing machine for her 5th birthday and my youngest can't wait to learn like her big sis.  I really love the included worksheets and sewing schedule.  As soon as we get settled into the school routine, sewing school will be in session.

There's plenty more articles and tutorials that are going to be great reference tools too.

On my short list of what to tackle next:  Little Collector Backpack, Fat Red Bird Fedora, "How to Create Quality Pins" and "How to Make a Lined Snack Bag".


Click HERE to get your copy!!


What's at the top of your list to make first?!

For more One Thimble, Issue 8 inspiration, check out all the other stops on the tour!


Enter below for a chance to WIN your copy! (But you'd better hurry...)


a Rafflecopter giveaway

{Mabel Madison Monday} -- Happy Birthday, Mabel Madison!


Woo-hoo!!!  I'm kicking off a new series on my blog today, called {Mabel Madison Monday} and there's no better way to start than with a birthday celebration, am I right?!   Happy 1st Birthday, Mabel Madison!  (Read all the way to the end to find out about the birthday celebration!)

This new series will run every other Monday on my blog and will feature things I've sewn using fabric available at Mabel Madison.   If you're like me at all, I love to see fabrics sewn up so I can see how they look actually in a garment.  This gives me a feel for size of the fabric pattern as well as coordinates available.  I hope it's helpful to you!


Today's featured fabric is "Table Flowers" in Rainbow by Art Gallery Fabrics from their Happy Home collection.  Yes, you read that right -- Mabel Madison is now carrying AGF knits!   AGF knits are dreamy to work with -- the weight is perfect and is comparable to the Euro knits that they (Mabel Madison) have carried for the past year.   This fabric is an ultra-soft jersey with great stretch recovery (95% cotton/5% Lycra).


As soon as I opened my package from Mabel Madison, I knew immediately which pattern I'd use to show off this gorgeous knit.  "Paisley" by Simple Life Pattern Co. has been in my pattern library from its day of release, yet I had never taken the time to sew it up!

I chose the tunic length for my slim girls. I knew I wanted to pair this with Ring of Ruffle Capris by Lilygiggle. I fussy cut the front bodice to showcase the largest bouquet of flowers.   The "skirt" portion is a circle skirt and I really like the drape it has.


Of course, the back is best part of this pattern (and I'm really hoping it passes dress code for my 6 year old...lol).  "Table Flowers" made sewing this pattern super easy to sew up and I love how it turned out!

Now, I'm sure you are wondering about the BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION* for Mabel Madison!!!

Mabel Madison Birthday Giveaway
*There's no purchase necessary to win, but support for the sponsors (and Mabel Madison) is always appreciated :)




Sew Coordinated Sewing Kit

{Guest Designer}
---------

August 2015 Kit



Wow!  I cannot believe it's August already.  Time is flying by sew fast.  As we enter August, it's time to begin the transition to Fall.   This month's Sew Coordinated -- a monthly subscription sewing kit (sign up HERE) brought to you by Mama Made and Beautiful Fabrics helps you do just that  -- these gorgeous fabrics are by Lewis & Irene in the "A Little Bird Told Me" line.


Included in the kit this month are:

Whew!  4 yards of fabric means a whole lot of creations.  If you remember the last Sew Coordinated kit I sewed, you know I like to get the most out of it.  Last time, I got 2 dresses with matching headbands.  This month -- well...

I made items for 4 outfits (and could have made a 5th if I hadn't already used one for pockets and linings -- kind of sad about that still).

Let's start with the fabric in order: 


I actually saved this fabric for last.  "Cottage Garden on Coffee" is my favorite print of the 5 and I wanted to make sure I used the best pattern to showcase it.  I'm glad I chose the Samantha Suspender Skirt by Made For Mermaids.  This fall, I'll pair it with a slim long sleeve tee, but for my daughter's comfort on this hot, summer day, I photographed it with short sleeves.  I used the included blue buttons at the base of the suspenders.  So cute!


This Tobago is my half yard wonder!  I was able to make a size 3/4 in a 15" length with "Geo on Tea".  I did have to use an alternate fabric for the back facing... but shh.... no one can tell ;)  And this fabric matches perfectly with my daughter's yellow shoes!


These next two dresses actually use the remaining 3 fabrics.  Little Lizard King has a new pattern  -Daddy's Girl - headed into testing and I begged Cassie to let me pretest it for her so I could make my posting deadline.  I alternated "Little Birds on Light Blue" and "A Little Bird Told Me on Peach" to make coordinating dresses for both girls.  I used "Cottage Flowers on Welsh Blue" for the lining of my oldest's and the pockets of both dresses.  But, I am wishing I had saved it for a second Tobago instead. 


I decided to use the lace trim on this version (although it seems it's difficult to see on the bodice in the photograph).  In order to feature the bird (and because my OCD would not let me have a bird off-center), I chose to use the "A Little Bird Told Me on Peach" as an overlay on a white bodice.  I carried the lace down to the hem and used it to peek out from under the curved hem on the sides.


The included Gutermann thread matched perfectly and of course, sews so nicely.  And the pin wand?  Yeah, I needed that!  Somehow during sewing, my pins seem to mysteriously end up on my floor in the carpet around me.  One quick pass over the carpet with this wand and all my pins are back in place.  There is also a hole that I can string a ribbon through so I can wear it instead.  Could this mean the end of pins on the floor?!

Here are some additional pictures of my "Sew Coordinated" girls because well, I can't resist :)






These kits are so much fun and challenge my creativity to use only the kit .... or mostly. HA!

I have been given insight on next month's kits --- you do not want to miss them... seriously.

Read below to answer any questions you may have about the kits!!

P.S. Rumor has it that I will be a permanent designer to showcase the kits each month -- eeks!!  So pencil me in for another installment on the 5th of each month!


Sew Coordinated FAQ:

  • What is Sew Coordinated? 
Sew Coordinated is a monthly kit club! Each month, there will be a brand new kit debuting with coordinating fabrics, trims, and other goodies!These kits are guaranteed to be priced lower than if you would buy all the products separately at retail prices. I am SO excited at what I have to bring you!
  • How much does it cost? 
Sew Coordinated costs $50/month shipped domestically. It will ship in a flat rate padded envelope with free delivery confirmation and insurance. If you are international, it will be $45/month + the cost of a flat rate envelope to you. If you are a member of Mama Made and Beautiful (my fabric retail shop), I am happy to include it with one of your packages!
  • How does it work? 
You can purchase Sew Coordinated as a membership subscription or on a monthly basis. If you choose to purchase on a monthly basis, you do run the risk of the kits being sold out. If you purchase a subscription, you are guaranteed the kit. Subscriptions run for a 6 month time period.
  • What is the cost of being a Sew Coordinated kit club member? 
To become a Sew Coordinated kit club member, you will be charged an initial $10 membership fee. You will be required to pay this fee within 24 hours. After paying the $10 fee, I will send you a link to subscribe to 6 months of Sew Coordinated. You will be automatically billed $50/month for the next 6 months starting immediately.
  • Why is it worth it to become a kit club member?? 
---- You will be guaranteed to get a kit! The first few months of the kit have already been purchased and I only have what I have so if you become a kit club member, you are guaranteed to get the kit during your subscription period! Your kits will come before anyone purchasing month by month!
---- You will get an extra half yard of coordinating solid fabric in your kit every month! The total retail value of this is around $30 for a 6 month subscription!
---- You will have first dibs at all sales, extra kit offerings, and insider info!
---- Because Sew Coordinated is going to be the next big thing and you want in!! There will only be a limited number of kit club subscriptions and once they are filled, you will be added to a waiting list for a subscription!


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