Tuesday, April 15, 2008

A Little More Sewing

Here and there I've been able to sew during Rainer's naps. These are the latest projects. This tunic blouse is Simplicity 3750. It's an easy pattern, but boy did I make a bunch of mistakes. It's almost comical, but nonetheless I actually kind of like it in the end. I'm so not a perfectionist.
I like the cute gathers above and below the bustline. It's kind of summery and old fashioned. My necklace is from this Etsy shop, and I love it.
The blouse in action. Back from picking Faith up. I have iced tea mixed with a little lemonade in my mug, which Carrie brought that to me from Kansas on her last visit.
I also made these lounge pants from Amy Butler's In Stitches. Now these really were easy and very fun and satisfying to make. This is bought flannel from Joanne, but I've seen several bloggers make these pants from vintage sheets, which is so cute. I'll do the same, but with old sheets, not vintage, since I don't get out to the thrift stores much (or at all).
Yesterday my mom came up again and we worked more in Jacob's room. It's coming along. Otherwise I had a pretty calm day, sewed while Rainer napped, picked up Faith, played with the babies in the yard on the quilt. We had a fabulous dinner delivered to us: homemade beans, fresh herbs, nice salad. Tomorrow is an outpatient surgery day for the little guy so I won't be blogging. Back on Thursday.

19 comments:

Meg said...

I love the clothes! I tried sewing a top a couple of months ago, and the results were comical! First of all, my size according to the back of the pattern and my size according to the bust fullness printed on the pattern paper were about four sizes off! Then, once I had it finished, I tried it on only to discover that the scoop neckline scooped out so much that my bra straps were exposed. Sigh. I really want to try making some clothes for myself--guess I need to pick a different pattern.

I'll be thinking of you and Rainer tomorrow.

crunchy peas said...

Clothes are so hard for me...you did great! I love that little storage shelf in the background of Rainer's room- cute and organized! Strength to you tomorrow!

Unknown said...

I love the clothes and I'm sure I would wear both so I should try making them, particularly the pants (novice sewer here.)

And I am astounded by the organization of toy tubs in the last two photos. I would adore something like that in my house.

I wish you and Rainer all the best during surgery.

Carrie said...

You have a great sense of style. And you look good in everything you make. I totally have tall envy!

Amy said...

The blouse looks great! I have not attempted any shirts for me but this one looks like it would be a great start!
I made some jammie pants out of an old sheet and oh my they are waaaaay comfy! I just used another pair as a pattern and it worked out very well.
thoughts are with Rainer! What a brave little man!

Rachel said...

I love those lounge pants! I too have seen versions on other blogs and am itching to make some too - I must buy that book. Good luck for tomorrow.

Kelli said...

You are amazing to accomplish so much with all you have on your plate. I love love love the pants. Good luck at out patient. HUGS

Marie said...

I wish I was a seamstress. I do my kids' halloween costumes, but that is it. I figure if they turn out wrong it doesn't matter since you are supposed to look strange anyway.

You did a great job.

melissa s. said...

I have immense admiration for anyone that can sew pants!! Both pieces are beautiful! Good luck tomorrow. My parents live in Santa Barbara so if there's anything you ever need, big or small, let me know. They would be more than happy to help out.

Sarah said...

Good luck to Rainer tomorrow. I will be thinking of him.

Sarah said...

Those pants look so comfy and I love the shirt!

I'll be thinking of you and Rainer tomorrow.

Heids said...

Love, love, love the tunic, especially the gathers. And the pants look so comfy.

Good luck at outpatients...thinking of you all with prayers.

Jogirl said...

Hi, you dont know me, but I really love and enjoy your blog.
You are truly an inspirational, woman and mother, I dont know how you do it. My prayers are with you and your little man Rainer tomorrow.
I really cannot comprehend what you are going through, and dont think I would cope as beautifully as you have.
Buy the way, I love love love those pants, I hope I can get that book here, because I think I would live in those pants.
Love Jogirl

kirsten said...

cute stuff - and i hope today goes smoothly.

Gift of Green said...

Hi MB,
That top looks great! I also like the gathers and the band under the, er, bust. :) Your house looks wonderful so full of sunlight and natural wood/colors. Best to you all. ~ Amy

Carrie said...

Your top and pants came out so cute-great job! I am with you as far as perfectionist sewing-that's why I love the whole bend-the-rules-sewing phenomenon right now! I like when it looks homemade.
Good luck with Rainer's surgery ;)

Felicia said...

Groovy duds :)

Suzanne said...

So glad to see your getting some therapeutic sewing in:-) We are still praying for your family!

Laura said...

I was away for over a week on vacation and was happy to get caught up on your blog and all the happenings.
Your new blouse is DARLING! and it fits you perfectly! I wish I had arms like yours. You are in such good shape AND tan. Do you practice yoga?

Hoping all went well with Rainer's appt. yesterday.