African Inspired Blouse

Here lately, the only tops I've been concerned with making are crop tops. Well that and bodysuits. Alabama summers are such that you don't want to be involved with clothing alone, much less anything complicated.  I've opted for simple designs that don't require fancy closures or much ado.  That led me to designing my latest blouse.

My local mom-and-pop sew/vac shop was having a sale on fabric, and I happened to wander into there in the final day of the sale.  I had purchased some African prints from the shop before and found they had even more and they were 50% off. I ended up purchasing a couple of yards of several prints.

 Of these beautiful prints, I found this magnificent batik print cotton. It was so thin and crisp and vibrant that I had to bring it home. Initially, I was only thinking of making an accessory with it. However the more I looked at it I realized that I had some burnt orange colored shorts that this would paired excellently with.

I also knew that I wanted to give this shirt a little more visual interest, so I decided to play up the sleeves, make a tassel for the zip closure, and make a decorative hem.

I drafted a simple boxy midriff top, experimented with sleeve draping, and came up with this geometric shape that can be worn in several different ways.  I added a scoop neckline, which is not something I typically wear.   I also added a zipper to the back. It wasn't necessary; however I wanted to add the tassel, and I hate the hassle of getting makeup on EVERY.SINGLE.THING that I wear.  So the zipper opening will help with ease of use. 

I bought a bunch of crochet spools awhile ago, though I don't crochet at all.  I forget my original intent, but the thread does wonderfully for all sorts of sewing needs.  I purchased several colors when Hobby Lobby had a sale on them. At any rate, I used it and a few jewelry findings and beads to fashion myself a tassel for the back.  I think it complements the look fairly well.

To tie it all together (no pun intended,) I used the same crochet thread in my overlocker/serger and finished the hems.  I've used crochet thread to finish this way for several garments, and it never disappoints me.  It gives a hand finished look without actually having to go through the trouble of spending hours looking up tutorials. I also feel that it enhances the print on the fabric as well.

Thank you for stopping by!

Iron-on Patches + Shop Update

     Do you ever go through spells where you're really into something for a couple of days or couple of weeks and then totally into something else for a span of time?  That's pretty much my life, and I can't determine whether it's from a short attention span or some way to not get burned out on something I love.  Either way it goes, I have been completely in love with making patches and swimwear here lately.

     I think because we are in the thick of, I mean, approaching summertime here all I can think about are fun, bright things and swimsuits...so that's literally all I have been making.  I have actually been working on patches for a long time now, and I decided that I would finally place some in my shop.  Not all of the ones in the photo are available yet for purchase.  I still have some fidgeting to do with them.  But pop on over and take a look.  I will post more on my design process later.

DIY Z-Palette Tutorial

Hi lovelies!

     I know I have been missing for so long, and there really isn't much of an excuse aside from being incredible busy with school.  Speaking of which I graduated last year with my Bachelor's and started this year on my Master's.  So there is tons to talk about, but that will have to wait because today I have a tutorial for you.

     So lately (as in the past couple of months) I have been heavily into makeup.  I think my bank account, Ulta, and Sephora accounts can vouch for that!  My weakness, admittedly, are palettes and minis.  (I mean who can't pass up a tiny version of a makeup favorite??)  I do have a few cumbersome singles floating about.  I typically didn't have an issue with them...that was until I was trying to organize all my makeup into a more streamlined fashion and realized that they are just awkwardly in the way.

     Cue the lightbulb!  I figured that I have enough materials to make myself a Z-palette knock-off.  What a great way to recycle the Ulta and Sephora boxes that somehow find themselves at my doorstep weekly (no judging, okay?) and to reduce the bulk of having many little cosmetic holders all over my tiny apartment bathroom. 

     If you'd like to see how I made mine, stick around after the jump!

Shop Update

 

I have been meaning to get this posted for nearly a week now.  I have been having issues with my newest computer.  At any rate, I made a selection of pencil pouches and listed them in my etsy shop. 

 

I have them available in 7 different colors (or you may request a custom color): red, orange, yellow, lime green, teal, turquoise, and royal blue.  They are approximately 8 inches wide by 4.5 inches deep.

Since I have been into all things planner/stationery- and art-related lately, I felt it was only right to make some bags to fit my mood.  I have few other things that I am working on as well.

 

Enjoy!

Hi Lovelies + Free Design

Hi all! I know it has been an awfully long time since I've posted, about a year and a half.  There have been quite a few reasons that I haven't posted.  I won't go into detail at the moment but primarily schoolwork and my job has kept me extremely occupied even with my home life, and I anticipate the upcoming fall semester will have no shortage of busyness.  So while I have a bit of free time to post, I am going to try to take advantage of it.  But you all didn't come here to hear me ramble I know!

It seems like every time I get onto Instagram or Pinterest I come across something cute related to pineapples.  I have been into digitizing embroidery lately, so I decided to join in on the fun.  This morning I made this pineapple buttonhole design and am now sharing it with you sweeties.

Merry Christmas!

Oh my goodness!! This has been quite a few past months.  I have been so busy with school that I have barely had any time for much else.  I am so glad the semester is over, and I have a few weeks break before going back.

Let me just say how I have MISSED you all and blogging. I didn't expect to stray away for so long.  Unfortunately, to cram as much school work in as possible I have to be a tad bit more disciplined toward it.

Are you all ready for Christmas? I can't believe that it is almost here.  Seriously, only a day away!! I guess I'm as ready as I'll ever be.

So I have been working a few items for after the holidays.  I didn't get it ready in time for Christmas, but I think this break between semesters is a great time to catch up on my designing and sewing.  My sewing mood changes a little too quite frequently and honestly it drives me nuts and so I have to do things when the mood strikes me.  So lately I have been dabbling in all sorts of things.  But the most recent endeavors has included lots and lots of felt....

Another One: Sewing Plans {Printable}

I really haven't had a heap of time to sit down at my sewing machine lately.  Instead I have been constantly on my computer typing and studying.  So that leaves lots of time to make documents that are sewing-related, right? Right!

 

Where Have I Been + Free Printable

Hi, lovelies!  Oh my!!! It's been such an awfully long time since I've had time to blog.  I've wanted to, trust me.  I started back classes this fall at Auburn University after being out of school for 2 long years, and boy! is it an adjustment.  This college is so much bigger than the one I attended last.  With that being said, I haven't had much time to really do anything that I like concerning crafting or blogging because I'm usually always studying.


I have a textile class that I am in love with.  I had a project in there that dealt with making a swatch kit, and it got me to thinking about fabric organization (and how I really need to do some!)  Then I thought about how for years I had been wanting to do a fabric organization binder myself.  Obviously, I never got around to it.  Anyway, I sat down and created a fabric swatch sheet printable and I wanted to offer it.  It's away to say that I'm sorry that I've been gone for so long and that I really do miss you!!

It's nothing very special, and I'm sure there are tons out there that look much better than what I can offer.  However, this is something that I've really been wanting to do, and so here it is!

It features three places for swatches with fields like Fabric/Design Name, Content, Amount, and Notes.  The swatch square is approximately 2" by 2".  There is also an "Ideas" section at the bottom, in case you like to group together fabrics that are similar in colors or styles.

Download the pdf file here.  Simply print it on regular paper or cardstock, attach either a scrap of fabric or a photo of the fabric, and add your info.

I hope you enjoy! Let me know if this works for you. And...please send pictures if you use it to lani5287@yahoo.com.  Hopefully I won't be gone too long again!!!

My First Ever Quilt: Chevron Vintage Sheet-Style

I wasn't going to post this until I revamped our picnic basket, but I'm super excited about the turnout!

Let me start off by reiterating that I am not a quilter, nor do I have the desire to be like the great many of you who are.  I applaud and adore your works and dedication to the craft.  It takes sheer talent to quilt.  I had to preface this post with that notice in the event you look at how wonky this quilt is and thought that I was trying to pass as a quilter.  

{Tutorial} : Simple Cardstock Mailer

I typically make my own mailers for when I ship packages to my customers.  I like making them myself because 1) they are inexpensive, 2)they are totally customizable, and 3) they are always readily available.  I whipped up a little tutorial to demonstrate my process.

Let's go!

Follow Me on Bloglovin'

I have a question: although Google Reader is going, does that mean that FriendConnect(?) or the newsfeed on the Blogger Dashboard is going anywhere too?  I should really do my homework concerning this whole transition of blog feed.

I hardly ever look on Google Reader as is.  I typically just go to my dashboard and catch up day to day.  However I did join Bloglovin' a couple of months ago. From what I have seen, I like so far.  I rarely get onto it.  So if have Bloglovin' and you feel so inclined, Follow my blog with Bloglovin!

I have even added a button for it on the sidebar.  It is the last button with the "b" and heart on it.  Now I'm off to go play around with the new blog feed website!  See you there!

A Few Bad Habits to Break

Because I have been sewing a lot of garments for little miss and for myself lately (more on those later), I started thinking about some improper habits I have created out of mostly laziness and impatience but also out of limited time and materials.

Here's my effort to ward you away from making these same terrible mistakes.  These are in no particular order.

Where Was All This Energy for KCWC?

I have been on a sewing and creating roll here this week!  I've made or done something creative nearly everyday this week.  I've been working on lots of things for my daughter; and though some things are finished, there are still some wips left to knock out.  I updated my blog a bit.  I hope you all like the way it looks now.  I feel it is a tad fresher and represents me more.

Well today I have for you two articles of clothing: one being a pencil skirt and the other being a cardigan.  Let's start with the skirt.( I must warn you; there are a ton of photos.)

Vintage Sheet Storage

Although I have a two bedroom apartment, it's pretty small.  It's comfortable enough, but it could be a little bigger for my taste.  Being that it is on the tad cramped side, it doesn't leave much room for storage.  And honestly I have entirely too much stuff (shoes, clothes, fabric) to have packed in here.

My daughter's room is right across from mine; and in our makeshift "hallway" which really isn't, there is an alcove that is about a foot and a half deep and three feet wide.  I figured if I couldn't annex some space, then I should go vertical.  That's just what I did.

Open-Back Girl's Shirt

You may not know this, but I'm not a fan of strapless and much less a fan of halter tops especially for my little girl.  I did, however, want to make a top (or dress) that was in some way crafted with her back out so that she wouldn't get so hot in the summer.  I took some inspiration from the open-back dresses that have been popping up EVERYWHERE and crafted this little open-back number for her.

Repurposed: From Changing Table to Sewing Desk

A couple of weeks, okay more like a month and a half ago, I found this changing table sitting beside the dumpster at my apartment complex.  I immediately scooped it up.  I saw a whole new potential to this gem.  I called my mom and asked her if she could help me upcycle it, and the first thing out of her mouth was, "Are you trying to tell me something?!"  So after calming her fears that I was/am not expecting another child, I explained to her that I wanted to take it from its current terrible state to this awesome vision I had for it.

She never really did get around to helping me with it.  That was totally fine by me because when I'm ready to start working on something, there is no stopping me until I finish.

The whole process took longer and was harder work than I had anticipated.  That's okay; I like a good challenge.

Shop Update

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I just listed some new items in my etsy shop over Memorial Day.  I added a bunch of phone clutches and earbud cases.  I have more things to work on still so expect to see more things to appear in the shop.  I am building some custom shelving in my apartment for my vintage sheet storage, so I have a ton of sheets that will be for sale either on etsy, my blog, or Instagram coming up soon.

Strawberry Lemon Pops

I posted yesterday about Strawberry Mango Lemonade.  Today I'm bringing you another little summer treat idea.  I recently made some fruit pops because I saw some freeze pop molds at the dollar store and figured I could give it a try for only $1.  It's not like I wouldn't be getting any great use out of it.  We have hot summers here.

So I took to my trusty food processor (because my trusty blender isn't so trusty anymore now that it went ka-put).  I used my combination of strawberries and lemons again.

I chopped up a handful of strawberries, added some freshly squeezed lemon juice (one lemon is enough), and added a little water and honey all to my food processor.  I blended it all until it was pureed smoothly.  I then poured this mixture into my freeze pop mold, placed in the sticks, and froze them for hours.

These things are soooooo good!  All natural and super easy to make.  I think I will try adding fruit juice the next time I make fruit pops.  I'm definitely going to see how many different types of pops I can come up with before the end of summer!

This kiddie likes and so does her mama!!!  She couldn't wait to get out of school to have one.  I finally let her enjoy one, and she was so excited.

Strawberry Mango Lemonade

If you follow me on Instagram, then you know that I have been on a bit of a natural food/beverage kick lately.  I've made everything from smoothies to detox water to homemade limeades.  I have made plain lemonade, but I wanted to have a drink with a little bit of a twist to it.  So I made Strawberry Mango Lemonade.  Here's how I did it.

I roughly chopped up some strawberries and a mango.  You could use frozen if you have it.  I then put it in my food processor.  Ordinarily I would puree it in my blender, but my blender decided to commit suicide not too long ago, therefore leaving me stuck with my food processor until I can get it fixed.  If you need to, add a little bit of water to your fruit blend.  Blend it as much as possible until it becomes uniform.  Add this mixture to your pitcher.  I used a regular quart-sized pitcher.  Add water about three-quarters of the way full.  I then juiced 3 lemons.  I could have used one or two extra, but I like the flavor it has.  Add a half cup to three-quarters cup of sugar.  Fill the remainder of the pitcher with water.  I topped it off with adding several lemon slices to the lemonade, so that when it chills the lemon-y flavor with infuse with the rest of the drink.

Wait until it gets cold for a couple of hours and then enjoy it on a nice, hot day as a cool and healthy refreshment!!

Vintage Sheet Bunting (I Finally Jumped on the Bandwagon!)

As I mentioned in a previous post, I created a vintage sheet bunting banner for a quick little craft show I was participating in one afternoon.  I took some semi-decent photos of my little sign.

I used scraps of vintage sheets, alternating in pink and blue scheme, and some vintage twill tape.  The twill tape I found at an antique mall on a spool with hundreds and hundreds of yards on it. I ended up making the bunting with my embroidery machine because I was pressed for time.  I layered felt and vintage fabric, embroidered the shape, monogrammed my lettering, cut them out, and strung them together with the tape.  Such a cute little thing to make.  It was very personal and intimate to have it hanging at my table.  I'm building some new storage in my apartment for vintage sheets, and I'm thinking about hanging it from the shelving to make it feel more welcome.  Or maybe right about my sewing machine.  I'm still not quite sure yet.

I wish that I had chosen a better choice of thread to use for the letters.  By the way the banner spells "create." for the blog (of course!)  I thought since the fabrics had the mutual color of kiwi green in them that the green I chose would have been perfect.  The green ended up being to washed out and hardly noticeable.  It kind of bummed me out a little.  Next time I will have to make better contrasting decisions.

Either way it goes, I'm fairly happy with the result.  I thought about offering mini vintage sheet buntings in the shop with different sayings.  Hmm, still toying with that idea....