Wednesday, February 11, 2015

A Return to Blogging

WOW! It's been a long time since I last posted anything on my blog. I've been busy. Writing articles for Sew News magazine, and my weekly posts for the www.craftsy.com blog site.  Oh, and did I mention, my daughter's getting married. After 10 years together they have finally decided to commit themselves for life and to say I'm happy is an understatement. They are a wonderful couple and her dad and I can't wait for the big day.

So, I've been doing lots of planning. I've spent a gazillion hours on Etsy and Pinterest looking for ideas on everything from bridal gowns, veils, flowers, bridal shower and, of course, Mother of the Bride dresses. OMG! There is simply too much information to digest there. 

My daughter sent me to NYC to shop for wedding dresses. Yes, we went to Kleinfelds where she eventually bought her dress.  What fun!

But now its time to get back on the horse and start writing  this blog. My most recent project was a top I made to wear to my nephew's wedding.  My inspiration was the new fall Vogue pattern #1415 by Tom and Linda Platt. I chose to make option B.
Vogue 1415 - B

This is a very simple pattern. Basically a front, back and raglan sleeves so it can be made in no time at all. I especially liked the tunic style - to cover my thicker middle -- the angled hemline and big cowl style neck. Lovely, modern and pretty much my kind of dressing.  

It's the kind of top that can work for any daypart - good for a daytime casual or semi-casual setting or dressed up for an evening event.  I also like the fact that it's cut on the bias for a lovely fit. I chose to make mine out a beautiful wine colored satin. Unfortunately, the polyester variety and not silk, but still quite lovely.  I wore it over a pair of slim black crepe pants just like on the pattern cover which looked pretty great. 

Low and behold, that was some time ago. Now my focus is on making things for my daughters wedding and bridal shower.  On my to do list is her veil.  I am replicating one she fell in love with, but retailed for $1500. I can make it for a fraction of the price. I'll keep you posted. 

I also have flower girl dresses on my list. Two little sisters from my future son-in-law's family. Nothing too fancy. White satin dresses with satin bows and poufy skirts. Add to that the usual flower girl baskets that I will dress up with lace, a ring bearer pillow and a lacy garter for the bride. 
V7681

For the bridal shower, I am making aprons and travel bags to hand out as prizes. I stocked up when Joann's home dec fabrics went on sale for 75% off. What a deal! I was able to get some pieces for less than $5 a yard.   Can't wait to get those going. I'll keep you posted.