Book review - Subversive Seamster

Today, I'm reviewing the book: "Subversive Seamster: Transform Thrift Store Threads into Street Couture" .

I really enjoyed the concept of this book. Imagine being able to take an old bridesmaid dress and turning it into a modern top. However, the instructions leading to your new fabulous top are really oversimplified which I'm sure will leave some readers ruining some good thrift store finds. One of their projects was turning a pair of "old man pants" into a bustier. Eeewww!!!

They did have some good recycling ideas like using suspenders as elastic and using leather remnants to make earrings but my final verdict is still SKIP IT.

Next week, I'll actually be reviewing a book I like :)

I'll also be posting my part II of my adventures in Prince Edward County.

Book review - Generation T

I recently renewed my local library membership and decided to take out a few sewing books. First on my list is "Generation T: 108 ways to transform a T-shirt".

Initially, I was very excited to read this book. However after reading the first few chapters, I immediately noticed this book would be better suited for beginner sewers and probably ones under the age of 19. All projects are done using a regular sewing machine, hand stitches, knots or safety pins. Yes, I said safety pins! All the edges on the garments are left raw so you can bet they'll either unravel, curl up or get overstretch after being tossed in the washing machine.

Nowhere in this book is a serger mentioned or even seam finishing techniques like topstitching or even a simple bias strip. My verdict: SKIP IT

Next week, I'll be reviewing "Subversive Seamster: Transform Thrift Store Threads into Street Couture" .

Sewing tip -leftover soap

I love using a thin leftover bar of soap to mark lines on dark fabric. It's a great alternative to using tailor's chalk. It's good for the environment as well as the pocketbook. Just make sure it's nice and dry before you start using it.

In the picture below, I'm marking a line on the stretch jersey to make a 1/2" band as part of the
finishing on a halter top. I bet you thought soap was just for washing !

Amy Butler Spring contest

On the very last day, I decided to enter the Amy Butler Sew Inspiring Contest. The challenge was to create a purse or bag with an Amy Butler pattern, fabric or just something that is inspired by her very distinct style. In case your not familiar with Amy Butler, she's a designer and author that makes amazing textile and paper prints.

Since I couldn't find any of Amy's fabric at the local fabric store, I decided to create the purse with my own fabric using a pattern I created. This is the first time EVER I've attempted sewing a purse so I kept it simple and decided on the basic shape of a wristlet. I used a distressed cotton and coordinating patchwork fabric. With the patchwork fabric, I sewed it in a “men's tie” shape and embellished it with a vintage turquoise brooch. I decided to do a random topstitch on the handle to add a bit more character.

I "borrowed" the brooch from my mom about 6 years ago. I hope she doesn't need it back since I'll be selling the purse in my second Etsy shop tangente shortly.

Did I mention the grand prize is a fancy Janome Memory Craft 6600P Sewing Machine. Wow!!! You can view all the entries on the Amy Butler Sew Inspiring Contest Flickr group.

Fabric Swap

One evening in the Etsy forums, I saw a thread with the title "Hey Fabric junkies, I have an idea...". I couldn't resist. BeckyKay was trying to organize a fabric swap. Of course, I would be interested. I'd been avoiding fabric stores for months in an attempt to minimize the clutter in my sewing room. So at the mention of a swap, I knew this was a quick way to get a fix. I would keep a few yards of her fabric but in return I had to replace the amount with my own and ship it to Audrey, the next person on the list. So technically, I would still have the same "amount" of fabric. Clever!

Here are just a few of BeckyKay's fabric:




What to pick? I'll have to procrastinate at least another night until I make my final decision. I've already gathered my fabric to be swapped, just need to cut it.

The making of a catnip mouse

I just wanted to share the fun process of making my Parisian Catnip mouse. Most people probably don't realise how much work goes into making one mouse. This time around I decided to make 10 at a time.

My first step is to gather and cut all the necessary supplies; fabric, ribbon, catnip and jute. Some are pretty small like the noses. I always cut a few extras since they seem to disappear when I'm not looking.




Then I sew all of the mouse's accesories to the fabric. I have to make sure to leave a small opening to be able to turn the mouse inside out and then to stuff it with catnip.




In case you were thinking I was drinking on the job, I use the shot glass to measure the catnip. So with my trusty shot glass and measuring spoon, I make sure each mouse gets the same amount of catnip.

On occasion, my supervisor, Melvin, stops by to do a quality check.



Next thing you know, I've already completed 10. After the final inspection, I package them in plastic bags to preserve the freshness of the catnip.




A few of these lucky mice are heading south of the border to a fun boutique in Louisville, Kentucky called the Makery. They are also always available in my Etsy shop.

A wonderful gift

A few days ago, I received a wonderful package from fellow etsian Andee. She had sewn me a funky scarf made with recycled t-shirts. This scarf is so unique and eco-chic. I can't wait to wear it. Thank you again Andee.

Be sure to check out her Etsy shop Dandee.




Pssst, love her label !!!

My sewing room