What a Month!

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I last updated my craft blog. The past few weeks have been a blur. As some of you know, I had my Thai wedding last Saturday. A lot of preparations for the big day, but it all went really well. I can't wait to share my photos with everyone! I have some craft projects in the works, so I'll probably have something to show soon. So stay tuned!

Patti

How to Make a Pattern Organizer

I like to collect patterns. I hope that I actually use most of them, but they're also good for inspiration and reference on what I would like to make. Every now and then Joann Fabrics would have a $1 pattern sale. Last week it was McCall's and next week it'll be Butterick. This week they have a $2 pattern sale for Simplicity patterns going on today through Saturday. 

Last week I bought a lot of patterns and had no where to keep them. So while I was walking around the store I decided to pick up a file holder (it was 50% off!) and convert it into a pattern organizer.

Keeping the patterns this way was not going to work for much longer.

New patterns!!!

Tools and Supplies:

• File holder - I like the see-through plastic ones made by Sterilite.
• File folders - I had bought a 100 pack of these from Costco a long time ago
• Pattern envelope - to be used as a cutting guide for the width of the dividers
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Scissors

1. Sort your patterns to count how many dividers you will need. 



Sorting out my patterns.

2. Position the pattern envelope on top of the file folder. If you are cutting the file folder with a center tab, center the envelope. If your folder has a left tab, position the envelope to align with the left side of the folder.

   

   This envelope is center aligned with the tab.

3. For center tabs, measure 2.25" from each edge and marked that with a quick, light line using a pencil.

   

   2.25" from each edge for the center tab.

4. For left or right tabs, measured 7.5" from the edge with the tab.

   

   7.5" from the tabbed end.

5. Next, cut the folder on the penciled line. I left the folder as is and didn't cut off the side that folded since you can always keep notes in this mini-file folder.
6. Label your pattern dividers.
7. Insert your patterns in between dividers.

   

   Patterns organized neatly.

8. Done!

Side view of the pattern organizer.

In my effort to be resourceful, I saved the excess pieces of the folder and converted them into embroidery floss organizer for individual projects. All you need are scissors and a hole punch. 

Tools for the job.

Cross-stitch/embroidery floss organizer.

Enjoy!

Patti

Vacation Time = Craft Time

I got a lot of crafting and shopping in this week. It's great to have a whole week off from work. Enough writing, here's the pictures of my crafting from this week so far.

I started making a new hat on Monday. I know it's not cold outside, quite the opposite, but for some unknown reason I really wanted to make another Scallop Lace Hat. I made one for Joy's friend's mom in England in the same color. Now I want one for myself.

Taking over the coffee table in the living room.

WIP - Scallop Lace Hat

On Tuesday I went to Joann Fabric and found this cool, patriotic fabric. I decided to make a multi-craft top. I crocheted the top portion based on the pattern for the Light 'n' Lively Tank by Lion Brand Yarn. I just winged the bottom portion and I think it's not too bad. There's a zipper on the side. I finished it in time for the Fourth of July!

Americana poplin from Joann Fabrics - it was on clearance!

Front view

Side view with red zipper

Back view

Close-up of the front and button.

Kujo looks a bit sleepy.

On Wednesday, I wore my new top and went with Chris to Joann Fabrics for another round of fun. They are having a sale all week! McCall patterns are on sale - 10 for $10!

New patterns

More new patterns

New fat quarter bundles. Lower right is from AC Moore.

Making new shirts with these pretty fabrics.

Bought more of the apple and pears fabric.
I made a bag with it before, now I'll make more!

More notions and rotary cutters.
I needed new 45mm blades and Fiskars was on sale for 55% off!

Chris and I found this print... um, what would you make out of it? :)

I hope you enjoyed the pictures from my week-long craft time. I'll be posting a short tutorial next time - how to organize your patterns. Until next time!

Very truly yours,

Patti

Sunday Shares - 7.1.12

Today's Sunday Shares is a bit short, only two projects. Don't worry, I hope to have more to share next week. My company has a shut down all week so I plan on working on all my different arts and crafts projects.

I made a coaster set for our coffee table. The pattern, Coaster Set, is from the book I Heart Patchwork by Rashida Coleman-Hale.

Created from a fat quarter bundle from Joann Fabric.

Coasters are 4" x 4".

Loved how they came out. They are mini quilts!

Finished product. <3

I wanted to make little neck ties for Kujo and Phidan to wear at our wedding yesterday. I woke up at 6 am and started sewing away. I found this awesome tutorial - Little Dog Tie Tutorial. You just have to download the PDF and enjoy!

All the pieces.

Fabrics all cut up and ready for sewing.

Little dog ties. Kujo's on the left, Phidan's on the right.

Phidan and Kujo wearing their ties at the wedding. <3

Hope you enjoyed today's Sunday Shares!