The Mint Needle

Hey readers! Remember those New Year's resolutions I had? Well, it turns out I've finally made those hot pants. Today, I share with you my colorful, new shorts & the interesting way I came to create them. I started off by meddling through layers of fabric until I found the perfect, lightweight cotton print. Originally, I was going to do a plaid, but who wants that? I could've just taken a pair of men's boxers & worn them. Right? So I opted to go for an unusual print. It had to be something fun & colorful that I couldn't find at a clothing store. Take a look at my choice: "Jomo Dot" The Alexander Henry Fabrics Collection Now, I know the next steps sound a little off kilt, but overall this is what I did. I mentally cut my body in half - from the front and from the side. I measured from below my belly button to the outside of my hip. Next, I measured from in between my legs, where the shorts would fall, to the outside of my thig...

I just loved this little dress from Molly's Sketchbook. So much soo, that I ended up taking it and cutting it in half for a skirt and tank design. I followed the same design techniques with the stitching at the sides, except for at the top's bottom. I placed a border with two slits at the side for comfort & a light fit. Take a look! I love this fabric! Purchased at Joann's, I can't believe how many reproduction prints they have this year. Buy up now, because some are not re-ordered. Okay...so I got carried away with all the pictures, but could I help it? She's just too darn cute sporting that little blue headscarf. Take another look at my grown girl sewing like her mommy:) The greatest thing, is that she's soo persistent & wants to learn even after a mistake. It doesn't disappoint her. It only drives her to want to know 'the right way'. (Must've got that from me....wink, wink.) And.....

For the love of all things blue....... What's more perfect for Spring than a blue handbag? What do you think? Something bright & colorful to update your accessories. Sure...why not? So let's get started! Making your own patterns could be a little tricky. But, I think you'll have fun with this one. I start all my patterns by sketching on plain, old tissue paper. At that price, mistakes are always okay. I folded the tissue paper in half twice and measured 8 1/4 inches out at the top, 5.5 inches out at the bottom, & 9inches for depth. (I fold it half twice in case it tears.) I connected them with soft arches to create the sides. When cut and unfolded, I was left with a wide bag pattern with a raised point in the center. This allows me to create pleats that will leave a soft, continuous arch. I cut my material & pinned the pleats in place.  I didn't want to sew them because I used a corduroy fabric. (Folds loo...