My Dyeing Day

Giveaway Day Winner!

2011-12-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

I've drawn the Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day winner! I counted all comments, less four (accidental I am sure) duplicate entries and had random.org pull a random number from the remaining comments.

Comment #28 corresponds to the comment by Lynne who said "I need to sew more for my own kiddos. You know how the cobbler's kids have no shoes? :) Thanks so much for the opportunity!"

Oh do I ever know! Congratulations Lynne, I've contacted you via email so you can choose your three Tie Dye Diva PDF patterns!

Thanks again to Sew Mama Sew for organizing the fabulous giveaway day!

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day! (CLOSED)

2011-12-12T06:55:00.000-08:00

***COMMENTS CLOSED. Winner posted here: http://tiedyedivadesigns.blogspot.com/2011/12/giveaway-day-winner.html ******

So appropriately smack in the middle of this season of giving, it's Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day! I loooove Giveaway Day!

I'm Jen, and I'm giving away a 3-pack of my PDF sewing patterns. The winner can choose from any of my 40+ downloadable patterns for baby, children, adults and home at www.tiedyedivapatterns.com.

You might choose my infinity scarf pattern because at about 30 minutes a project, you'll still have tons of time to sew them up for the deserving people on your holiday gift list. And even a few of the undeserving ones.

You might choose my Ear Flap Hat Pattern for kids, or the grownup version for yourself. You can even make a less grown-up grownup version with dinosaur spikes or kitty ears if you're that kind of grownup. Which I hope you are.

You might choose a pattern for baby like the Ruffled Baby Romper/Sunsuit. Especially if you're having summer right now instead of freezing like me.

Or any of the remaining 40 patterns.

Here's how to enter. Just leave a comment! Let me know who you sew for (kids? Grandkids? Yourself? for sale?) or if you are a sewer-to-be. There are, of course, no non-sewers, only those whose inner sewer is begging to be let out. Don't forget to leave a way for me to contact you!

If you purchase from me during the run of this contest (between time stamp of this post and the time comments are closed on December 16 at 5 p.m. PST) and you end up being the lucky winner, I will refund your purchase price for up to 3 patterns.

Winner will be drawn randomly via Random.org and announced by December 18 right here on the Tie Dye Diva blog. One entry will be counted per person. I will email the PDF patterns to the winner anywhere in the world.

Post your comment below and check back on on December 18! If you can't stand the wait and want to chat about my patterns in the meantime, come join over 3000 Tie Dye Diva Patterns fans on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tiedyedivapatterns! I hope to see you there.

To enter more giveaways from other designers, bloggers, and generally awesome people, click the Sew Mama Sew logo at the top!

Mending Day - Bye Bye UFOs!

2011-11-27T13:18:00.000-08:00

My "mending basket" is so full of UFOs (UnFinished Objects) that I have to sort them by type - clothing, pattern samples, household items, gifts... Last year as the holidays approached and it became clear all my enthusiastic holiday sewing was not going to come to completion, I created a sub-bag of "Christmas UFOs". With so much time ahead of me, I'd finish them up by June and move on to other things, right?

Right?

Sigh.

But I actually tackled all three things in that bag today and am feeling great. First I finished the Leopard Santa envelope pillow that has a pieced back because I didn't want to waste any of that darn cute HoHoHo Santa fabric from Hobby Lobby, it's one of my favorites. (And back in stock last I checked).

These are mostly made with my easy Envelope Pillow pattern. The adorable peppermint candy pillow is a Jo-Ann craft tutorial.

Then I ripped and re-sewed the upside-down clips on my holiday card holder. Here they are ready for holiday cards to arrive, looking really pathetic actually!

Soon they will look like this pic I took last year, and this year I have six instead of five so maybe we won't need to double two cards up on one clip this year.

The card holder was a Martha Stewart magazine craft from 11 or 12 years ago that I modified. Basically it's just lengths of ribbon with gold binder clips sewn to them at 7" and 11" intervals (to accommodate vertical and horizontal cards).

Finally, there's little Rudolph the No-Eyed Reindeer. I searched and searched for some kind of circle punch or die for my Big Shot that would cut felt into small enough perfect circles for the eyes and didn't find one so I broke down and cut them by hand.

He's from my Fleece Christmas Ornaments pattern. (Didja notice my pretty pincushion that I won a few months ago? Of course you did.)

How much time did all this take me? About an hour and a half. What took me so long? Might have to open up that Easter UFO bag next.

Tie Dye Diva Patterns - Designer Spotlight!

2011-11-12T20:26:00.000-08:00

I'm putting my spotlight on these fabulous designers who sew from Tie Dye Diva patterns! I picked a couple of year-round styles this time; next Designer Spotlight will celebrate warm-weather styles because though I'm wrapped up in my scarf and typing with my fingerless fleece gloves on, I know summer in Australia is just around the corner!

Warming up with this set by A Paisley Peony because it's so "what's hot" right now! I am seeing peacock hues everywhere and I love how the designer is utilizing the year-round versatility of the Miss Muffet Twirl skirt Pattern by doing it up in those to-die-for babycords! You can find the listing in her shop here.

Do I love Squid Kid Shop's Paris-inspired baby and girl dresses made from the Big Bow Dress pattern (sans bow)? Mais oui! How cute would these be as jumper dresses over with tights and shiny black boots? Check out Kristina's Facebook fan page at the link.

Sweet perfection shines in these pretty peasant tops made by Bewbear from the Tie Dye Diva Peasant Tops Pattern! Jenn sews them up for you in long or short sleeves and all sizes.

Katrina's keeping it cute, trendy and warm with fleece hats for everyone made with Fleece Hat in a Flash Pop on over to Popp N Chic to see her great selection of fleece hats for everyone, and tons of other nicely-made goodies in awesome fabrics.

Thanks from the bottom of my heart to everyone who sews with my patterns, I'm so grateful and love seeing what you've made. Come on over to the Tie Dye Diva Facebook Fan Page if you sell designs sewn from Tie Dye Diva Patterns (and give credit to my patterns in your listing/tag my page from your photo) and would like to be included in a future Designer Spotlight!

Weight I've Gained Due to Pinterest

2011-11-11T19:28:00.000-08:00

Had to share these! Finally had the rainy, cozy, cookie-making kind of day I've been waiting for to make these Chocolate Chip Pretzel cookies I saw on Six in the Suburbs via Pinterest.

Oh my sweet, crunchy, soft, salty goodness...this is the kind of cookie to make you pour some sweet cold milk into Grandma's Desert Rose glasses and take a plate into the den with a good book. I skipped the salt on top because it seemed like it would gild the lily, but next time, I think I'll try them exactly as written.

Tie Dye Diva Sewing Pattern News & Discounts

2011-10-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

Starting today, Facebook no longer allows fan page owners to message "likers" via the page. I want to make sure my best customers and fans don't miss out on important announcements and discounts from Tie Dye Diva, so I'd like to encourage you to sign up for my mailing list so that you're not out of the loop! I won't send it more than 4 times per year so you don't need to worry about a lot of spam, and every newsletter will include a special promo or discount found no where else.

And the Spotlight is on ...

2011-09-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

these amazing designers who sew from Tie Dye Diva patterns! Enjoy these gorgeous examples of Tie Dye Diva patterns and give the designers some love!

Treeswingboutique is new to etsy but has an established following on Facebook on her Addy & Tabby page. I love her fabric choices, such as on these adorable Way Cool Shorts! I love the sassy model too. You can find the listing her her shop here, and the adorable coordinates are for sale as well.

The Big Bow Dress or Top goes trés elegant in Joel Dewberry fabrics by jvancleef2! You can see the complete listing for the ready-to-ship top in size 3 here.

KatzKids has a gorgeous etsy shop and sews from a number of Tie Dye Diva patterns! This Big Bow Baby Dress and Pretty Pantaloons set is so darling, I love how the solid fabric showcases that pretty purple paisley. Listing is here, ready to ship in size 12-18 months.

The Sunny Day Sun Hat Pattern makes a great all-weather hat, not just for sunny days! Wish I had this one by SewMamaZ when we went to Disney this summer, how cute would this be for that bright and sunny park? And only $15 for a fully reversible sun hat!

My sincerest thanks to these designers for sewing with my patterns and including a credit to me in their listings! Feel free to give me a shout out via the Tie Dye Diva Facebook Fan Page if you sew with Tie Dye Diva Patterns and credit my patterns in your listing and would like to be included in the next Designer Spotlight!

Welcome AllFreeSewing fans!

2011-08-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

I am so honored to be the featured designer in AllFreeSewing's Sew It Up newsletter today! Normally I'd make some home made lemon cake or chocolate gooey butter cookies for company but since I can't share with you all and would end up eating the whole batch myself and getting my monitor all smeary in the process, how about some quick links to my free tutorials here on the blog and a coupon code for my downloadable sewing patterns?

That's what I hoped you'd say!

FREE TUTES:

Photo Pocket Flag Banner Bunting Tutorial

Free Baby Knot Hat Pattern and Tutorial

Free Sewn Armwarmers Tutorial

Free Christmas Stocking Pattern and Tutorial

How to Make a Petal Tee with a Die Cut Machine

How to Dry & Store Lavender/
How to Sew Quick Lavender Sachets

How to Add Chin Straps to Your Tie Dye Diva Sunny Day Sun Hat

How to Add Reindeer Antlers to your Tie Dye Diva Fun Fleece Animal Hat + Pattern

And for downloadable sewing patterns for baby, children, home and more, all with computer-drafted, full-sized printable pattern pieces and step-by-step photographed and diagrammed instructions, please visit www.tiedyedivapatterns.com and help yourself to a helping of discount code GOOEYBUTTER for 15% off any PDF sewing patterns, through Sunday 8/28.

What a feelin' ... it's the comeback of the Handkerchief Hem!

2011-08-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

OK, say "handkerchief hem" to most people and they will wrinkle their noses and sing something from "Flashdance". But I started seeing them everywhere, now and again just turned a little and called sharkbite hems. I was intrigued by the playful style with its beautiful movement. The pattern designer in me started dreaming of a new pattern and this is what I made.


Photo by A Hope and a Wish Photography

I added a second layer for modesty and extra poof, and ran with the romantic theme by adding a lace-up bodice and big sash bow that also serves to fasten the shoulder straps. So if you've been wanting to know how to sew a handkerchief hem, or needed a handkerchief hem dress pattern for your little girl that could be worn without leg warmers and an off the shoulder sweatshirt, here you go. I hope you love it as much as I do.

And because if I had a dime for every time I've been asked what fabrics I used, I could outfit my entire town in legwarmers, they are Michael Miller's Sweet Flower Fairies Roses print and Kaufman Pimatex dots in Sky.

You can purchase my Fairytale Dress handkerchief hem dress pattern in downloadable PDF format at www.tiedyedivapatterns.com.

How to Tie a Sash Bow

2011-08-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

A few of my designs include sashes that look best when tied in a proper sash bow. For years I have been referring people to the Ann Taylor website for their fabulous diagram showing how to tie a sash bow. Recently, the link ( http://www.anntaylor.com/catalog/e ditorial.jsp?pageName=StyleAdvice
&) has ceased to work. I hope it is helpful if I repost the diagram here, as it originally appeared on the Ann Taylor website. This diagram is not my creation, it is from the Ann Taylor website.

Image from Ann Taylor website

This week's Tie Dye Diva Patterns Designer Spotlight!

2011-08-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Twice a month, the Diva turns the spotlight on a few of the talented designers who start their creations with Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns. I am in love with this week's designers and their creations!

Lil Liza Lou is a regular sewing machine! I love seeing what she comes up with nearly every day. This is one of my favorites made with the Ruffled Baby Bubble Romper. Trés chic, no? She makes the hairbows too, this one from Birdsong Bows' mini boutique bow tutorial. So talented! See the rest of her creations and give her some Facebook fan love at her fan page: Lil Liza Lou.

Photo by Lil Liza Lou

Kim from Eggo in the Oven does such a great job of mixing and matching fabrics! I adore the oversized button on this girly-camo Open Back Baby Dress pattern and Ruffled Diaper Cover pattern set! She sells directly from her Facebook fan page Eggo in the Oven.

Photo by Eggo in the Oven

CookYouSomeNoodles on etsy has me beaming! How much fun did this little guy have posing for the photos of this dino/dragon hat made with my Animal Chinstrap Hat pattern? This designer also makes the chicken-style chinstrap hat, and sews with my ruffled nappy cover pattern and ruffled baby romper pattern. Her etsy shop is chock full of other beautiful goodies for children.You can see the full dino hat listing here.

Photo by CookYouSomeNoodles

Thank you so much to these designers for sewing with and crediting my patterns. I'll be scouting Facebook, etsy and beyond for more super designs made with Tie Dye Diva patterns. The Designer Spotlight is for designers who credit my patterns in their listings. Feel free to give me a shout out via the Tie Dye Diva Facebook Fan Page if you sew with Tie Dye Diva Patterns and credit my patterns in your listing and would like to be included!

Discount Code for Instant Download PDF Patterns!

2011-08-08T06:08:00.000-07:00

If you've purchased PDF patterns from my etsy shop, you know I promise 8-hour delivery of your PDF patterns but often I send within an hour, or even minutes if I happen to be at the computer when your order comes in! And there's a good chance of that, ask my family.

For a few days August 8 - August 12 I'll have intermittent internet access and though I will still send etsy orders within 8 hours, I won't be my usual speedy self. So, for patterns NOW, be sure to visit my instant download PDF sewing pattern site, www.tiedyedivapatterns.com. The site has my full range of PDF patterns for baby, child, home and more, and your PDF arrives in your inbox immediately upon purchase. To sweeten the deal, here's a discount code for 15% off, good 8/8-8/12: SEWNOW15. Coupon expires midnight EST 8/12/11. Feel free to share! To be clear, this code is good on my instantly downloadable pattern site www.tiedyedivapatterns.com only, not on etsy.

Snooze while you wait for your etsy order this week, you'll have time.
Photo by Butterfly Chaser Photography

I know, I know, it's about time! Beginner's Guide to Tie Dye

2011-07-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

If you've read anything about my shop, you probably know, I started out my online crafty endeavors selling my custom tie dye and hand-dyed playsilks and that's why my sewing pattern shop has a name that sounds like I just might be selling tie dye. In the 4 years since I began designing and selling Tie Dye Diva sewing patterns, I have had hundreds of hits to my blog and shop from people seeking "tie dye patterns" tie dye designs" "how to tie dye" and the like.

Well, I hate for people to go away disappointed! I have hung up my dye-splattered apron for good and am ready to share my tie dye techniques with you - for my most popular designs no less - the perfect boutique heart tie dye design and the "Best Friends" tie dye rainbow designs.

You can find this how-to tie dye tutorial in my newest PDF eBook, Dyeing Hearts and Rainbows the Diva Way. It's so much more than hearts and rainbows, though, it's a complete beginner's guide to getting started with the wonderful and addicting craft of tie dye. You'll learn how to fold and dye that perfectly shaped heart and those bright rainbows, how to dye a solid background, how to control stray splatters and bleeds that might wreck your design, and how to cure and wash out for a bright, bold, long-lasting effect.

The eBook includes a design gallery of other designs you can tie dye once you learn the basic techiques taught for the heart and rainbow! You can make all kinds of tie dye shapes - fish, cats, stars and more, and lots of awesome linear designs.

No-waiting instant download of this tutorial on my site at www.tiedyedivapatterns.com.

Free fabric and patterns and logos and custom clothing, oh my!

2011-07-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I had you at free fabric. The Back 2 School Giveaway with Birdsong Bows has just begun! Not only can you can not only win Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns, I'm joined by Boutique By Design (www.boutiquebydesign.com), LilBlueBoo (www.lilblueboo.blogspot.com), The Ribbon Retreat (www.theribbonretreat.com), Mamachee (www.mamachee.etsy.com). 1PuddleLaneClothing (http://www.facebook.com/1PuddleLaneClothing) and of course our hostess with the mostest, Birdsong Bows (www.birdsongbows.etsy.com)! Nearly $300 in prizes, and easy to enter.

Go to the giveaway page for contest rules and details on how to enter!

Look Who's in the Spotlight Now!

2011-07-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

Twice a month, the Diva's going to turn the spotlight on a few of the talented designers who start their creations with Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns. The first featured designers are here, and I am so happy to bring you this second installment. It is so much fun for me to scout around on etsy and Facebook and find all these talented seamstresses sewing with and crediting Tie Dye Diva Patterns.

I found the the cutest dress made from my Sweet Summer Halter Dress pattern, in the etsy shop of SewingSeeds4U! It's adorable in pinks and green, and look at the cute trim she added at the bodice seam. What a clever and perfect accent that adds! You can see the full listing here.

I could hardly decide which of the many gorgeous designs by Selahs Closet to feature. She has 7 listings made from the Ruffled Baby Bubble Romper, each one of them just stunning. Take a look at this one, with a sweet old fashioned roses print, polka dotted ruffles, and a perfectly executed snap crotch.

Ready for more ruffly goodness? This one's made expertly made by Lady With Faith from the big girl version of the ruffled romper pattern, Ruffled Bubble Romper for Girls (sizes 2-6).

She has a selection of gorgeous fabrics to choose from in the listing, or you can choose any fabric from other items in her etsy shop, and she will custom sew all sizes.

So many more amazing seamstresses on my list ... and I'll be scouting the web for more pretty things made with Tie Dye Diva patterns. Feel free to give me a shout out via the Tie Dye Diva Facebook Fan Page if you sew with Tie Dye Diva Patterns (and be sure to credit my pattern in your listing) and would like to be included.

2000 fan giveaway winners

2011-07-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the Facebook fans who participated in the Tie Dye Diva Patterns 2000 Facebook fan giveaway today! And a HUGE thank you to Fabric Hound for contributing to the prizes! The lucky winner of the $25 Fabric Hound gift certificate gets to choose from that luscious selection of fabrics, patterns, notions and more. I have used Fabric Hound fabrics for so many of my pattern samples, and you can't beat Myrinda's policy of only charging actual shipping, she refunds if the checkout system charges more than the shipping actually costs.

Now on to the winners! Four clever and quick-fingered Facebook fans answered some fun questions over on the fan page and they are all entered in the giveaway. 24 additional fans joined the mailing list during the short time frame given between the third and fourth questions. I decided the first, second and third place winners would be chosen in order from these entries using randomizer, in the order the entries came in: first, second and third question winners, then mailing list subscribers in order of subscription, then fourth question winner. So without further ado:

First place winner! Congratulations to Lindsay D., who got the second question right, and wins the $25 Fabric Hound gift certificate!

Second place winner! Congratulations to Lisa P. whose email address starts "halos..." who subscribed to the newsletter and wins a Tie Dye Diva Three Peas in a Pod paper pattern valued at $10.50 - no printing, no taping, and a free green zipper to go with it!

Third place winner! Congratulations to Fabiola who subscribed to the newsletter and wins $5 off her next Tie Dye Diva Patterns purchase!

I'm so delighted and honored to have all the wonderful talented and crafty people to hang out and chat with on the Tie Dye Diva facebook page, it lights up my day to see a kind word or new photos of the things that have been created with my patterns. Thanks so very much to all!

Tie Dye Diva Patterns Mailing List hookup!

2011-07-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

*If you are joining for the purpose of entering the giveaway, it is closed and the winner has been drawn. If you are joining because you like my stuff ... thank you! Read on.*

Tie Dye Diva's got a brand new mailing list! Sign up here to be included. You'll receive no more than 4 newsletters per year and exclusive good stuff for newsletter subscribers.

Free printable - Mommy & Me First Day of School/Kindergarten Bracelet Poem

2011-07-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my oldest is starting sixth grade this Fall. It seems like yesterday I was peeling her off my legs on her first day of Kindergarten. I came across this photo on my computer the other day and remembered the First Day of Kindergarten bracelets I made for us - one in her size, one in mine, both with a dangly heart charm, and gave to her along with this poem I wrote.

Yes, it's a little schmaltzy, and yes, I committed the sin of Comic Sans, but it made her feel better and made me feel better too. She only wore it for a few days before she was running off at drop-off time without even a 'bye, mom'. (Hm, a tradition that continues to this day.)

I wanted to share this idea and the poem with you, you can write your own (much better) poem or download the printable First Day of Kindergarten Poem. Print it on cardstock, cut on the lines, punch 2 holes in the top for threading a ribbon through, and tie a set of handmade or store-bought bracelets to it.

Two years later, I made my middle son a set for his first day of Kindergarten with a boyish hempcord bracelet and a frog charm.

I have only one more first day of Kindergarten left, perhaps I should make my last Mommy bracelet out of a large wad of Kleenex.

Please feel free to link to this printable but do not reprint the poem on your site without crediting it to me. It is intended for personal use only.

The first Diva's Designer Spotlight!

2011-06-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

Twice a month, the Diva's going to turn the spotlight on a few of the talented designers who start their creations with Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns. I'm so excited to bring you the very first selection!

Hey there, Sailor! I love how Karen at Layla and Stitch took the Ruffled Baby Bubble Romper pattern and made it her own Baby Boy or Toddler Nautical Beach Romper!

Photo from www.laylaandstitch.etsy.com

Karen swapped out the ruffles for an adorable, professional applique and converted the halter tie straps to criss-cross button straps. Voila, a perfect romper for a baby boy!

Karen included the optional snap crotch, and appliqued the front with a whale on a rick rack wave. She'll custom make this in the full range of Tie Dye Diva romper sizes - NB all the way up to size 6.

Love the Layla and Stitch style? Find her on etsy at http://www.etsy.com/shop/laylaandstitch or on Facebook at Layla and Stitch Boutique.

Sweet and Girly! Sharon at Pinkie Twink sews up the Sweet Summer Halter Dress pattern in an array of designs from sweet and classic to bold and beautiful! This Lotus Dress is one of my favorites:

Photo from www.pinkietwink.etsy.com

She'll custom make these for you in all sizes 2T to 8. She offers her halter dresses in more than 6 gorgeous fabric combinations, and a lot of other beautiful customs for kids, at http://www.etsy.com/shop/PinkieTwink

Cameron at Two Crazy Girls Designs always knocks me out with her gorgeous designs and multiple talents! Here's an example of an adorable custom set she made showcasing a diaper cover made with the Tie Dye Diva Ruffled Diaper Cover pattern, and including a matching headband and pacifier clip. I had trouble choosing one for a spotlight photo, they are all so adorable! See more of her work on her Facebook fan page, http://www.facebook.com/twocrazygirlsdesigns.

Photo from http://www.facebook.com/twocrazygirlsdesigns

So many more talented seamstresses on my list ... and I'll be scouting etsy and Facebook for more pretty things made with Tie Dye Diva patterns. Feel free to give me a shout out via the Tie Dye Diva Facebook Fan Page if you sew with Tie Dye Diva Patterns (and credit my pattern in your listing) and would like to be included.

Free Tie Dye Diva Tutorials and Patterns

2011-06-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

A week into summer but I've just finished some spring cleaning here at the Tie Dye Diva blog. I've updated the links to all the free pattern downloads so they are easier to access and added a new sidebar on the right (scroll down) with Quick Links to all the free tutes and patterns so they are easy to find. Here's the list:

Photo Pocket Flag Banner Bunting Tutorial

Free Baby Knot Hat Pattern and Tutorial

Free Sewn Armwarmers Tutorial

Free Christmas Stocking Pattern and Tutorial

How to Make a Petal Tee with a Die Cut Machine

How to Dry & Store Lavender/
How to Sew Quick Lavender Sachets

How to Add Chin Straps to Your Tie Dye Diva Sunny Day Sun Hat

How to Add Reindeer Antlers to your Tie Dye Diva Fun Fleece Animal Hat + Pattern

Now, who's ready for summer? Meeeeee! Something new from Tie Dye Diva coming up soon, PDF tutorial on how to tie dye the Tie Dye Diva way, learn to make boutique quality hearts, best friends rainbow shirts and more, stay tuned!

image by Jodi Friedman Photography

Testing out a new PDF host for free pattern pieces

2011-06-29T06:17:00.000-07:00

It's come to my attention that the site hosting my free tutorial pattern downloads (like the Christmas Stocking and Baby Knot Hat) is no longer free for users. The last thing I want is for my free tutorials to require that you pay a third party in order to get them so let's fix that, shall we? Here's a first attempt an an alternate download method.

Click Here to Download Tie Dye Diva Free Christmas Stocking Pattern

Click the link, then in the left hand corner, click File, Download, to save it. If this doesn't work I might need some input on other ways to do this!

[Edited to add: it seems to be working for almost everyone! The full tutorial instructions that go with the pattern are here: http://tiedyedivadesigns.blogspot.com/2010/10/free-pdf-sewing-pattern-how-to-sew.html]

Lavender's Blue, Dilly Dilly

2011-06-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

I think this is my favorite time of year. Clothes are drying on the line, and I mentioned in this post that I was about to harvest our beloved Grosso lavender and make some beautiful sachets with my Sugar Pop charm pack from I Sew Crooked. I love these sachets because they have so many useful places to be - in the dryer, in a drawer, under a pillow, in the car, baby's room, any stinky small place that needs a little natural freshening. They make great gifts for this reason, and you can customize the fabric for the person you're giving it to.

My beloved husband does the growing part so I can't really help with that. You get a plant, or maybe seeds, I'm not sure, and dirt and water and sunshine. Then you grow it a long time while your wife saves her scraps all year for sachets. Then one day you see buds, and just when some of them start to open all the way - but not all of them, because then the lovely scented oils just dry up - you cut them and bring them inside in one heady, lovely bunch.

OK, now this is the part I do know about. Bundle them into bunches about as thick as your wrist so they aren't too crowded. Rubber band the stems, pretty tight, because they lose some volume as they dry and you don't want them falling all over the place.

Slip another rubber band through the ones holding your bunch, then loop it by pulling one end through the other to form a hanger.

I cut the ends straight because I think it looks really pretty that way but it doesn't serve a single purpose I know of. Hang them in a dry place out of sunlight - our garage is the best place here. Put a piece of newspaper on the floor beneath them to catch the flowers that fall as they dry - you don't want to waste any of these fragrant beauties! In about a week they should be crisp but still have their color and fragrance. Take 'em down, it's time to separate the buds from the chaff.

Put the bunches in an old pillowcase. I have best luck doing this one at a time. Then rub gently, like you are rolling the bunch, and the flowers will separate from the stems. Collect the flowers in an airtight container and don't forget to shake out your newspaper and use those too. I store in a Mason jar and keep it in a dark cupboard. I have heard the stems can be tossed into your fireplace to add some nice fragrance. I haven't tried it ... don't get me started about all the rules my town has about what you can and can't put in your fireplace and when.

Now, on to the sachets! This is the quickest, easiest way to make sachets that are still dryer-friendly. The key to this is pinking the edges, which means cutting them in a zigzag to keep the fabric edges from fraying, because fraying edges would make a mess of your dryer. Yes, you can sew it like a traditional pillow, wrong sides together, turn, fill and sew the hole, but this is much easier and works just as well.

You can use pre-pinked charm squares, you can cut your fabric using a pinking rotary cutter if you're fancy like that, or you can use pinking shears. I like them no larger than 5" on a side and no less than 3".

Lay two pieces wrong sides together. Use a 5/8" seam allowance, and beginning 5/8" from one edge, sew three sides using a straight stitch. Don't forget to backstitch at the beginning and end, and end 5/8" from the unsewn edge. Choose a thread color you like, because your stitches will show on your sachet.

Now fill it. You don't want to fill it too full or you won't be able to sew it shut, and you'll just be wasting lavender because a little goes a long way. 1 ounce should do it, which for my 5" x 5" charm square is about 1/2 way full.

Keep the lavender packed down away from your unsewn edge, and then sew the remaining edge, being sure to cross over your original stitches, and backstitching at the beginning and end.

Betcha' can't make just one!

For the longest life as a dryer sachet, toss them in when the clothes are only just damp, then store it in a dark place until your next load.

Tie Dye Diva Free Photo Pocket Flag Bunting Tutorial

2011-06-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

The Tie Dye Diva family loves to celebrate! I made this reusable fabric bunting for our family birthdays and other occasions. The idea came to me the day before my youngest's second birthday (which is today - happy birthday, my little buddy!) and so I put a photo on it so he would know exactly whose special day it was without having to read a thing. The photo is in a clear vinyl pouch so it can be removed and replaced with another birthday boy or girl’s photo, name, or other greeting for non-birthday occasions.

Here’s how to make your Tie Dye Diva Photo Pocket Flag Bunting:

Makes one banner about 84" long.

You’ll need:
• 1 package (3 yards) Double Fold Bias Quilt Binding (7/8” wide)
• fabric scraps at least 6.5" x 7.5”
• 2 pieces clear vinyl 7.5” x 5.5” - I used 4 mm thickness.You can find this at any regular fabric store.
• 4" x 6" Photo of your loved one, birthday greeting or other personalized message

First, make a template out of cardboard to make cutting your flags easy. Make it 6.5” across the top, then measure down from the center point (hint: the 3.25” mark) 7.5" and mark this spot. Connect the lines to form a triangle and cut it out.

Next, raid your scrap bin (you can see mine under the template, yikes!)! I made a “boy side” and a “girl side” to the banner. You could also make a ‘fourth of july' side and a 'valentines day’ side, or whatever you like. Cut 12 triangles for each side of the bunting, 24 in all.

If your scrap bin looks like mine, you’ll need to press the triangles before you sew. Of course, it’s a much better idea to press before you cut but this was a nap-time project for me so I pressed later. Then I piled them into my ‘girl’ and ‘boy’ piles and just like a little fabric-flag promenade, matched one from each pile, right sides together.

You only need to sew the two longer edges of the triangle - use a 1/4” seam allowance. For a nice point, stop a little before the tip, take 2 or 3 stitches across, then continue down the other side.

Clip the tip and then turn, poking the tip out nicely. Press again, and don’t skip it this time. It would be a nice touch to topstitch those two edges if you had the time. Repeat for all 12 flags.

Now, looking only at your ‘girl’ or ‘boy’ side, arrange them in an order you like, remembering that there will be 6 to the left of the photo and 6 to the right, so balance the two sides nicely. Then flip the whole pile over and look at the other side to make sure it looks nice too. Set your flags aside, keeping them in order.

Cut 3 pieces of your quilt binding 5.5” long and one piece 7.5” long*.
*read ahead, you may want to cut it a little longer. Keep the big piece too, that's what all your flags will hang from.

To form the photo pocket, enclose a short edge of each vinyl piece in one of your short pieces (5.5") of bias binding and sew along the edge. Here’s the great thing – no need to fear sewing on vinyl, don’t get out your Teflon walking foot or tissue paper or anything else. Your presser foot will never touch the vinyl.

See? Here’s a picture of my presser foot, not touching the vinyl at all.

Now lay these pieces with the bound edges together, this will be the opening on the side where you slide the photos in and out. Then bind BOTH of the opposite short edges together in the remaining short piece of bias binding and sew. To be clear, you're enclosing two vinyl edges in one bias tape piece.

Lastly, enclose both bottom edges and sew.

I left raw edges; I don’t intend to ever wash the bunting, and the bias would not fray much anyway. If you don’t like this look, you can cut it a little longer than 7.5” and turn each raw edge inside before you sew it.

Now find the center of your long piece of bias binding and the center of your photo pocket. Enclose the top edge of both pieces of vinyl in the bias binding and sew it down.

You can stop here and pin all your flags in place if you want to. I didn’t. I just stopped as I approached the edge of the photo pocket with my needle down, opened up the binding, and tucked the next flag in place, then stopped again near the end of the flag and tucked in another. Because we are starting in the middle, begin with flag #7 in your pile and work to the end.

Then turn the bunting around and again, begin in the middle with flag #6 and work out to the other end. If you have enough binding, you can tuck the ends inside to finish them.

I added a grommet to each end because with 3 kids and a family who likes to celebrate everything I have a feeling we’ll be putting it up and taking it down quite a bit.

Or maybe we’ll just leave it up and change the pocket message from time to time.

I hope you enjoy this free tutorial. Feel free to link to it – tweet it, Facebook it, etc. but please don’t copy it or the photos in it in any form, or repost it on your own site or anyone else’s. You’re welcome to use it for personal use or for sale. Please come visit my instant download PDF pattern site www.tiedyedivapatterns.com for bunches and bunches of sewing pattern PDFs for kids, baby, home and more.

As ye sew

2011-06-04T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here I go again with bad sewing puns but "As ye sew shall ye reap" comes to mind after Sew Mama Sew's fabulous Giveaway Day. I was delighted to give my three-pack of patterns to Jenilyn who had the Open Back Baby Dress Pattern sewn up and blogged in no time! You can see her darling Open Back Baby Dress on her blog here: http://gritsandgiggles.blogspot.com/2011/05/happy-memorial-day.html

Then I was so very lucky to win a giveaway too! Vicki at I Sew Crooked put together this dreamy little treasure pack that made me feel like it must be my birthday.

Our Grosso lavender is about ready for harvest and I can't wait to sew up some sachets with that gorgeous Moda charm pack, and that beautiful handmade pincushion is dying to help me out when I photograph my next PDF sewing pattern (did you see my newest?. The lovely scented soap, the pretty floss, oh, the pink tape measure (has she been spying in my sewing room? I LOVE pink!)! All wrapped up in a starry starry fabric with pretty ribbon, how wonderful is Vicki??

And she does not sew crooked. Check out her lovely quilts and more on her blog: http://www.isewcrooked.blogspot.com

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day Winner!

2011-05-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who entered my Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day contest! I loved reading all the comments! Thanks also to SMS for hosting such a fab day. I have to admit, I clicked my own little fingers into cramps entering all the delicious giveaways. But now, what you want to know ... Did I win???

Yes, you won! 10% off at my downloadable sewing pattern website, www.tiedyedivapatterns.com, all day long with coupon code SMSTEN. Come save on those favorites!

Oh, you meant THAT winner ... yup, we got that too.

Random.org says 52, and comment 52 was left by Jenilyn who said...

"The Miss Muffet skirt is adorable and would look great on my baby girl!! I'm hosting a giveaway too at www.gritsandgiggles.blogspot.com . Check it out!"

Congrats my dear! I'll get in touch so you can let me know which 3 of my PDF sewing patterns you would like for your prize!

Coupon code SMSTEN for 10% off at www.tiedyedivapatterns.com expires at 6 a.m. PST May 27 and is good on all patterns in the shop.

Now that you found me, please stay in touch! On Twitter: www.twitter.com/tiedyediva; on Facebook: www.facebook.com/tiedyedivapatterns; or follow this blog by clicking underneath Followers in the right hand column.

Giveaway comments closed - tune in tomorrow!

2011-05-25T20:58:00.000-07:00

The Sew Mama Sew Giveway was so much fun! I loved reading everyone's comments. Comments are closed now, and I will post a winner of the bundle of 3 PDF patterns in the morning!

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day!

2011-05-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

**GIVEAWAY CLOSED** Winner will be announced tomorrow morning right here!**

I am "sew" excited to be participating in Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day that officially starts tomorrow! Eeeyew, did I just make one of those so/sew jokes? Ugh. I need some new material. Get it, material?

Uhhh... nevermind, on to the giveaway.

I'm giving away a 3-pack of my PDF sewing patterns, the winner can choose from any of my 30+ PDF patterns.

You might choose a pattern for boys like my Way Cool Shorts.

You might choose a pattern for girls like the Miss Muffet Twirl Skirt with Bloomers.

You might choose a pattern for baby like the Ruffled Baby Romper/Sunsuit.

Or you might say to heck with the kids and sew something for yourself, your man, or your home.

Here's how to enter. Just leave a comment! If you like, please visit my new instant download sewing pattern shop at www.tiedyedivapatterns.com and let me know your favorite pattern.

If you purchase from me during the run of this contest (between time stamp of this post – the time comments are closed on May 25) and you end up being the lucky winner, I will refund your purchase price for up to 3 patterns.

Winner will be drawn randomly via Random.org and announced May 26 right here on the Tie Dye Diva blog. One entry will be counted per person - please play fair. I will email the PDF patterns to the winner anywhere in the world.

Post your comment below - or go browse Tie Dye Diva patterns, agonize over which is your favorite, come back and post about it. In either event, check back on May 26! If you can't stand the wait and want to chat about my patterns in the meantime, come join over 1400 Tie Dye Diva Patterns fans on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tiedyedivapatterns!

**UPDATE 5/24: Blogger seems to be giving some people an error message when they try to post comments. If this happens to you, be SURE your email address is in your comment (feel free to use tiedyediva at gmail dot com format) then post using "Name/URL" instead of your Google ID. You don't need to post a URL.**

What's better than a PDF Sewing Pattern?

2011-05-09T11:37:00.000-07:00

How about an instant download PDF sewing pattern? Yeah, I thought you'd say that! Now you can instantly download almost all of the Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns from my instant download pattern shop, http://www.tiedyedivapatterns.com. Choose your patterns, check out with Paypal, download, print and sew! Several patterns are even on sale in celebration of the speedy new site.

I still have a few patterns to load, but soon you will be able to instantly download 25 of my 30 PDF sewing patterns for baby, girls, boys, home and more there, including my newest: the Ruffled Baby Bubble Romper (joining big sister pattern Ruffled Bubble Romper for Girls) and The Man Apron!

Now you can get your Tie Dye Diva patterns anytime, even when it's the middle of the night Tie Dye Diva time!

Giveaway Winners are Posted!

2011-04-20T11:23:00.001-07:00

Giveaway winners are posted, thank you to all who entered!

http://birdsongbows.blogspot.com/2011/04/giveaway-winners.html

Giveaway Time, Part Deux! PDF patterns, fabric and more!

2011-04-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

Time for a great giveaway - part II! This time, you can not only win Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns, I'm joined by Birdsong Bows and Patterns, Ribbons and Bows Oh My!, Bugga Bugs, Anji Beane Crochet, Bullfrogs N' Fireflies, Cali's Charm and Fabric Shoppe, all giving really posh prizes, nearly $500 in prizes in all!

Click the link or logo to go to our giveaway page for details!

Round Robin - The Ultimate Spring Giveaway II

Twirl Skorts and Ruffles and Board Shorts, oh my!

2011-04-09T10:25:00.000-07:00

So much new in the Tie Dye Diva etsy shop this month!

First came the Miss Muffet Twirl Skirt pattern with (or without) Built In Bloomers. Monkey bar hangers everywhere, rejoice, Tie Dye Diva patterns has you covered! Look at the cute one my wonderful tester, Nicole of Cole's Creations, sewed up! So cute I had to put it on the cover.

This skirt-with-bloomers sewing pattern is better than a traditional skort or scooter pattern, because the elasticated bloomer bottoms prevent leg-hole peeks too. No "I see London, I see France!" Sizes 2-8.

Then, at long last, a PDF sewing pattern just for the boys - Way Cool Shorts pattern! Learn to how to sew shorts with a mock fly and how to make flap-closure cargo pockets that really expand. Even the boy who thought he no longer wanted to wear what you sew will love them! This downloadable shorts sewing pattern is sized and fitted for toddlers and boys sizes 2-8, but girls love them also, so a pouch pocket style is included for her too.

(Don't you love all these photos from A Hope and a Wish Photography? Wait till you see what's next!)

Vintage styling and tons of ruffles make the Ruffled Bubble Romper pattern irresistible, and that darling little model helps quite a bit too! Reminiscent of a vintage baby sunsuit pattern, with modern and professional details like a fully-lined front and halter-style back designed to make a big full bow. Sizes 2-6, with baby sizes on the way. Come "like" the Tie Dye Diva Patterns fan page on Facebook and be the first to know when the baby-sized pattern is available.

Adagio Bleu Gets Their Diva On ... for my Birthday!

2011-03-17T19:26:00.000-07:00

What could be better for my birthday than having the talented gals of the Adagio Bleu etsy street team do it up Diva style? More than a dozen fabulous designers have each chosen a Tie Dye Diva PDF pattern and have created their own custom design with it. They'll be showing off their amazing creations starting March 21 ... which just happens to be my birthday! You'll see their gorgeous takes on my Sweet Summer Halter Dress pattern, Ruffled Diaper Cover pattern, Peek A Boo Pleats Skirt pattern and much more. Search Etsy for ABSDiva starting Monday to see what they've come up with, and be sure to Like the Tie Dye Diva Patterns Facebook Fan Page now and check in starting Monday for links to the Adagio designers' creations, special promos and other fun birthday stuff!

BYO cake, I know I'll have mine!

Are you Expanding Your Crafty Horizon?

2011-02-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

I love learning something new! I remember when I first learned to shirr fabric I was so excited, my daughter had an entire wardrobe of stretchy tops and dresses. It was so easy and I wondered why I hadn't tried it sooner. Same with knit fabric, same with zippers. When I design a new sewing pattern I am sometimes hesitant to introduce anything that might seem scary to a beginning sewer. But I have had such wonderful feedback on the Peas in a Pod Sewing Pattern from people who never sewed a zipper before, now I am proud and happy to help new sewers expand their crafty horizon!

My newest pattern, the Sweet Summer Halter Dress (a Monkey Doodle for Tie Dye Diva pattern), features darling and unique curved straps that form a contrast trim for the bodice. This means sewing a convex curve (the strap) to a concave curve (the armhole), very much like a princess seam.

With my tips and tricks even a beginning sewer will be able to complete this pretty seam with professional results. And learn something new to carry on to future projects. Check out the Sweet Summer Halter Dress in my etsy shop!

Birdsong Bows Funky Loopy Bow

So what else can I try that is new? How about something non-sewing (gasp!)? I have never made a bow, and I am so inspired by this post by on The Cottage Home blog - she tried bow making for the very first time using a Birdsong Bows PDF pattern and it came out amazing! I am not surprised because Deanna at Birdsong writes a great pattern book; I have one in my stash that I have not yet made, sounds like it is time to gather up my ribbons and try something new! The Cottage Home blog includes a Birdsong Bows PDF pattern giveaway too - so don't miss your chance to win, you can learn something new too!

What are you going to try that is new?

New Fan Page for Tie Dye Diva Patterns and our 3 Giveaway Winners!

2011-02-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

Tie Dye Diva moved to a brand new Facebook fan page just for Tie Dye Diva patterns, http://www.facebook.com/tiedyedivapatterns and is having a giveaway for every 50 fans that enter! Plus a sneak peek at the next new pattern, something for big girls! Come over and Like the new page to enter and to check out the fun and fans!

And... we have our first 50 comments on the Giveaway Note and I've drawn the first winning number via Random.org:

Comment #24 corresponds to Rmenda C. - congratulations! Choose any single PDF pattern from www.tiedyediva.etsy.com and contact me through my etsy shop or by email at tiedyediva at gmail.com with your choice!

I'll be choosing the next winner when 100 comments have been made! Come join the fun!

Update 2/16/11: Here is our second winner:

Comment #87 was made by Barbara G, who wins a free Tie Dye Diva PDF pattern of her choice, congrats Barbara! Email me at tiedyediva at gmail.com with your choice, or contact me through my etsy shop.

Update 2/20//11: Here is our third and final winner!

Comment #130 was made by Julie T. H. who said "ME ME!" - Congrats Julie! Email me at tiedyediva at gmail.com or contact me through my etsy shop with your choice of any of my PDF sewing patterns!

That wraps up this giveaway, thanks to all my new Facebook fans who entered! Watch for some new fun coming up soon ... details tomorrow ...

Giveaway Time!

2011-02-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

Time for a great giveaway! You can not only win Tie Dye Diva PDF sewing patterns, I'm joined by Birdsong Bows and Patterns, Goosie Girl Boutique, Boutique By Design, The Ribbon Retreat and Fabric (did someone say fabric??), Melissa Caron jewelry and Painted Butterfly Studio, all giving really posh prizes, over $500 in prizes in all!

Click the link or logo to go to our giveaway page for details!

Round Robin - The Ultimate Spring Givewaway

Free Knit Fabric Sewing Tutorials - Armwarmers and Baby Knot Hat

2011-02-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

I have had so much fun participating in the Great Knit Fabric Experiment sponsored by Stitch Simple and Harmony Art Fabrics, and so honored to be one of the patternakers chosen to create a free tutorial for sewing the luscious knit fabric they provided. Working with the organic knit cotton has been a dream, and ... the best part, because they came from Stitch Simple, they arrived prewashed and ready to sew, as do all their fabrics. No guessing how much your fabric might shrink - when you order a yard, you get a yard to sew with. Open the box! Run to the machine! Cut and pin! Sew sew sew! And voila, armwarmers for me and a lil' knot hat for baby. My kind of sewing. Click on the I Heart Knit Fabrics logo or the link to go to all the free tutorials in the Great Knit Fabric Experiment!

And so without further ado, let me share my free sewing tutorials with you! I loved sewing with this beautiful knit so much, I couldn't create only one free tutorial.

First up, armwarmers! They keep your arms warm and leave your fingers free to do all the other crafty stuff you love. I'm calling my version Perfectly Polished Armwarmers, with finished hems and a self-binding thumbhole. Go to the free armwarmers tutorial!

Free Armwarmers Tutorial - Perfectly Polished!

After your arms are warm and your fingers are still free for sewing, continue on to my free Baby Knot Hat tutorial and downloadable pattern! This one is size newborn in a sweet little beanie style. It was a natural match for the lovely organic cotton knits from Harmony Arts, don't we all want our little ones to spend their first days warm and cuddly and organic, and wearing sweet little whispers of "Mom" and "Dad" and "Love"?

Free Baby Knot Hat Pattern and Tutorial

Free Sewing Tutorial - Perfectly Polished Armwarmers

2011-02-07T06:14:00.000-08:00

Don't we all love armwarmers? Now, an armwarmer is basically a tube, and you could cut a rectangle of fabric, sew up one edge, stab a hole for the thumb, and call it day. Because knit doesn't ravel, that's actually a pretty acceptable way to create some quick armwarmers. However ... I'm calling these Perfectly Polished Armwarmers, with finished hems and a beautifully bound thumbhole, I think you'll find the difference is worth your time, and you'll learn to create a self-binding for knit fabrics.

You'll need:

About 1/2 yard knit fabric with at least 25% stretch and some standard sewing supplies. I'm using the beautiful Solstice organic cotton interlock from Harmony Art Fabrics, provided prewashed and ready to sew by Stitch Simple.
Standard spool of thread or other circle roughly 1-3/8" in diameter
Large piece of paper for making your pattern - wrapping paper, tissue paper, etc.
Standard sewing tools and supplies

First, create your pattern. Measure around your palm at the widest part, not including your thumb, that = Palm measurement. Now measure the around your arm where you'd like them to end, that = Arm measurement. Next, measure from that point on your arm down to your knuckles, or wherever on your hand you want them to reach and ADD 1". That = Length. The seam allowance will take care of making the width just a bit smaller than the actual width of your arm so they'll be just snug enough. My fabric has about 25% stretch. If you are working with an especially stretchy fabric, you may need to subtract 1/2" from your palm and arm measurements.

So as an example, my Palm = 7.5", my Arm = 9", and my Length = (13.5 +1) = 14.5".

Draw a vertical line = to your Length line on a large piece of paper, like wrapping paper or tissue paper. I'm using the pretty unbleached tissue paper that came with my Stitch Simple order! Now center a horizontal line the length of your Palm measurement across the top. To do this, divide by 2 and make that the point that intersects the Length line. In my example, 7.5/2 = 3.75. Do the same for your Arm measurement at the bottom, which for me is 9"/2 = 4.5. Connect the side lines. Above is a not-to-scale example.

Cut around your pattern piece, and fold it in half along the length line. Now draw a cutout for the thumb hole. For an average hand, the top of this cutout should be 2.5" from the Palm line. Centering a standard spool of thread (which measures about 1-3/8" across) on the edge makes a perfect size. You can even look through the hole of the spool to be sure it's perfectly centered on the edge. If you can't find a circle the right size, use a ruler and sketch a half circle roughly 2/3" wide and deep.

Now cut 2 of these shapes from your chosen knit fabric, being sure you are cutting so the stretch goes across the width of the pattern. Also cut 2 strips from the same or a coordinating fabric 5" wide (stretch direction) by 1" long. These are your binding strips.

Hem the top and bottom of the armwarmers by pressing under 1/2" and sewing with a narrow zigzag that goes just off the raw edges of the fabric.

Fold the armwarmer right sides together and sew a 1/4 seam with a zigzag or stretch stitch, or serger from the arm edge up to the thumbhole and stop.

Turn the armwarmer right side out.

You should be able to open up the thumbhole so that it's fairly straight and accessible for sewing. Pin a binding strip, right sides together, along the entire length (or "around") the thumbhole. Sew using a longer-length straight stitch, about 1/4" from the edge of the hole.

Press the binding first toward the hole, then wrap it all the way around the raw edges to the inside of the armwarmer and press again, and pin in place.

"Stitch in the ditch" from the right side of the fabric, using a longer length straight stitch. I didn't mark the stitching line in this photo because I want to to be clear that the 'ditch' where the binding meets the main part of the armwarmer is the sewing line. Trim any excess binding from inside the thumbhole to 1/8", and any excess over the side seam.

Turn the armwarmer inside out once more to finish the side seam with a zigzag or serger, again using a 1/4 seam.

Right it once more, and repeat for the other side - now go enjoy your warm, crafty arms!

I hope you've enjoyed this free tutorial - please link to it, Facebook it, Tweet it! There are easy-share buttons up at the top. I offer PDF sewing patterns for clothing, accessories, home goods and toys in my etsy shop, http://www.etsy.com/shop/tiedyediva. You might enjoy my Convertible Fingerless Gloves/Mittens PDF sewing pattern - come browse my shop any time!

Free Baby Knot Hat Pattern and Tutorial

2011-02-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

This free tutorial is part of The Great Knit Fabric Experiment sponsored by Harmony Art Fabrics and Stitch Simple, where you can buy your fabric prewashed and ready to sew. More great free tutorials for sewing with knits at the link, or click the logo!

Knit fabric is a necessity when sewing for baby - soft, stretchy, just cool and warm enough. Don't be afraid to sew with knit, you can follow this easy tutorial even as a first project. This tutorial makes a size newborn hat for babies up to about 9 pounds.

Materials:

1/4 yard cotton knit with at least 25% stretch; this will make several hats, but you need this yardage because the stretch needs to go across the hat's width and the main hat piece is almost 12" long. I used the darling Alphabet Soup print and Lime Green organic cotton interlocks from Harmony Art Fabrics, provided prewashed and ready to sew by Stitch Simple!
Cotton knit for the band (contrasting or matching): 2.5" x 14" piece.

[edited to add: after I created the samples and drafted the tutorial, I decided I liked the look of a slightly narrower band. The instructions result in a hat with a 1" band. If you want it to look more like the picture, cut your band up to 4" wide and follow the same instructions.]

polyester thread and a ball point needle recommended for sewing knits
Standard sewing supplies and equipment: sewing machine, scissors, etc.
Printable Free Baby Knot Hat Pattern from Tie Dye Diva

(Click File in the upper left, then Download.)
1. Print out the free baby hat pattern from Tie Dye Diva. Wait for your husband/significant other to make jokes about it, like "are you sure that's a hat pattern?" Cut around the solid line, the 1/4" seam allowance is already included.

2. Cut 2 of the hat pieces from your main fabric. Cut 2 strips of your band fabric, each 2.5" long x 7" wide (the stretchy direction).

3. Place the hat pieces right sides together and sew around the edges as shown, using a 1/4" seam allowance. When sewing knit, a stretch stitch or narrow zigzag is recommended to ensure that your seam will stretch along with the stretchy fabric. Also place your band pieces right sides together, and sew the short edges.

4. Make a little clip into your seam allowance where the long "tail" that you will be knotting meets the main part of the hat. Don't clip through your seam! (Like how I used my third hand to take the photo? When my husband stopped with the jokes about the pattern shape, he helped me out.)

5. Turn the main portion of the hat right side out. Fold the band in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Finger press the seams open.

6. Place the band around the main portion of the hat, raw edges aligned, and matching up the side seams. Pin all around, then sew this seam using a stretch stitch.

If you have a free arm on your sewing machine and can slip the hat over it without stretching the hat, it makes this part a breeze.

7. Flip the band down into place, give the tail a single overhand knot, and enjoy!

If you've enjoyed my tutorial, there are easy-share buttons up at the top, and please visit my instant-download pattern shop, http://www.tiedyedivapatterns.com for dozens more PDF sewing patterns for baby, children, home and more.

What I've been up to, and a hint about something FREE on the way!

2011-02-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

I last blogged less than a month ago, and am so pleased to have a few new patterns in my shop since then! Let's catch up.

I found a match made in sewing pattern heaven when my friend MonkeyDoodle, who has more pattern ideas than she has time for, and I, who has patternmaking down to a beloved art and science, put our heads together! I've just listed this adorable Peek a Boo pleated skirt pattern in my etsy shop, newly updated and chock full of the photos, diagrams and extra sewing tips and tricks my PDF patterns are known for. You'll love the lace-up pleats option, check out the listing for additional photos.

Also collaborated with MonkeyDoodle is this new one on the way very soon - it's a blanket, it's a pillow, it's a buddy, it's a great gift for a new baby, a beloved grandchild, or really, just about anyone. They're quick to make and super cuddly, especially in flannel. You can make them in animal/monster styles or as a regular pillow. I was feeling especially kitschy when I made this one with Obama on one side and peace signs on the other. Presidential pillow panels? Who knew they made them.

And just today I listed this one, that I've been so excited about launching - a new baby dress pattern in the style of a vintage baby swing dress that I'm calling the Pat A Cake Baby Dress. Go to the listing to check out out the ruffly, open back! Great for showing off ruffled diaper covers or little baby bums dressed in just about anything.

Now, a little hint about what's to come ... watch this blog for something wonderful and FREE posting on Monday!

I'm All Thumbs

2011-01-07T15:52:00.000-08:00

I have never done so much thinking about thumbs as I have in the last several weeks while designing my brand new convertible fingerless gloves pattern. You know, thumbs are not really on the side of your hand, they're kind of in front, only just a little, not really in front either. And you probably know they don't stick straight up like other fingers, they angle away from your palm. And they're not symmetrical, the palm side is bigger than the back side. These are the things that I think of at 3 in the morning when the baby's woken me up and I can't get back to sleep. I know, you'd think this would put most people back to sleep instantly. I'm a sewing nerd. :)

Gloves as we know them date back centuries and glovemaking is a time-honored profession. Creating this modern pattern, I felt like somewhat of a sassy interloper among glovers who use terms like "trank" and "fourchette". I studied techniques for glove patternmaking and looked at dozens of actual gloves and mittens (family of 5, we have a lot of gloves and mittens!) and found each had a slightly unique way of attaching the thumb piece. I took a blend of the best of all these approaches, stalked my family members and friends with a tape measure, and drafted a sewing pattern that has both a great fit AND is easy to sew. And best of all, I added a convertible mitten top so you can go from covered up to fashionably fingerless with the flip of a flap. You can find the fleece convertible fingerless glove/mitten pattern in my etsy shop, www.etsy.com/shop/tiedyediva. It's a PDF download so you won't be waiting long to have toasty fingers.

Congratulations giveaway winners!

2011-01-02T07:14:00.000-08:00

BVMX8XMKDS93

Thank you to everyone who entered, and congratulations to these three winners of my New Year giveaway! Comments 38, 35 and 40, weighted for multiple entries, correspond to:

#38 - Angela D.
#35 - Mae Memories
#40 - Lisa with email milu72...

So glad to give away a bundle of 3 PDF sewing patterns to each of these winners! Contact me at tiedyediva at gmail dot com with your choices.

Happy New Year - Free pattern giveaway!

2010-12-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

**contest/comments closed - thanks for entering!**

(Am I the only one who hears the Red Hot Chili Peppers when I see a giveaway? Give it away give it away give it away now. Give it away give it away give it away now...)

But enough of that, let's get to the goodies, shall we? To get your New Year's sewing started right, I'm giving away a 3-pattern bundle of PDF sewing patterns of the winner's choice to each of 3 winners. Here's how to get entries:

1. Take a look at my shop, www.etsy.com/shop/tiedyediva, and comment here letting me know which PDF sewing pattern you like best, or leave a comment letting me know what kinds of patterns you'd like to see in the new year.

2. Follow me on Twitter - tiedyediva - and tweet the giveaway.

3. Link to my blog from your blog or web page. You can post about this giveaway post or link to my main blog page in your sidebar, etc.

Post here with how many entries you have qualified for, and a way to get in touch with you. Up to 3 entries will be counted per person. Open to all entrants, worldwide. I'll choose winners from all qualifying comments entered by the end of New Year's Day, January 1, 2011! Winners will be posted January 2.

Eating My Own Dog Food

2010-12-28T14:59:00.000-08:00

I gave many handmade gifts this Christmas season. Some made by me from my own patterns (eating my own dog food, so to speak): My sister in law, nephew and husband received hats from my 30 minute fleece hat pattern, given to them in their handmade stockings from my free Christmas stocking pattern. My Mom got a shirt made with my corsage tee tutorial. The cat and some of my friends' cats received fleece mice from a pattern I made up. And of course, I shopped etsy as well. Some of my top picks:

Fancy handmade lollipops from This Charming Candy. I felt like a million bucks dropping these jewel-like lovelies by pairs into Christmas stockings. My family is loving the creative flavors such as salted caramel and pistachio marshmallow. My daughter says the honey jasmine tastes just like a long sip on a honeysuckle flower.
Hand screen printed organic cotton towel from Oh Little Rabbit. So nicely done, a pleasure to give, though so nice I bought two so I could keep one for myself.
Card table playhouse made by me with PDF pattern from Miss Pretty Pretty. I improvised many of the details but the pattern provided great instructions for the general structure of the house, and the littlest guy loves it.
Beaded socks from socute2. (Update: looks like she does not have any more in her shop. Here is the sold item so you can see what I'm talking about.) Remember these? My daughter had a pair of forgotten origin that she wore until the very last bead fell off. I had this wonderful etsy seller make her a replacement pair, several sizes larger. Adorable and well made.
This one was a precious gift received: A CD jewel case 2011 calendar from hollyit featuring the beautifully photographed seasons as they pass here in Northern California. Lemons are featured for January, and mine out the window are just about to become ripe. Though they don't look as lovely in my toy-strewn, weather-bedraggled yard as in the calendar's perfect captured moment.

Sewing for Beginners

2010-12-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

Did you get a new sewing machine for Christmas? I hope so! I had a few PDF pattern customers yesterday purchasing for themselves or a loved one who is just learning to sew. Almost all of my PDF sewing patterns are perfect for beginners, even a first project. (The exceptions would be, perhaps, the diaper cover patterns and the Peas in a Pod pattern, but even those are not too difficult). Pillows are a traditional first project and are so gratifying to make - you can really make over a room in a few hours. I can't wait to slip my Christmas pillows out of the covers I made with my Easy Pillow Covers Pattern and into something else. I have my eye on this Pillow & Maxfield fabric over at AllegroFabrics.com.

Some guidelines for beginners choosing a first project:

1. Fabric. Don't try to sew a first project with knit fabric, or with satin or other slippery fashion fabric. Use a good quality woven cotton. Though you may not want to spend a lot on fabric for your first project 'in case it doesn't work out', avoid the temptation to buy the cheapest fabric you can find. Many of the inexpensive 'house brand' fabric-store fabrics are poor quality and tend to fray to bits while you sew. Cheap fabric is also unforgiving should you need to tear out your stitches and re-sew. Instead, use a 40% off coupon on a full-priced designer fabric (most chain stores carry some Michael Miller and Robert Kaufman, for example) or wait for a sale. Fleece is a good second choice for beginning sewing. It doesn't fray and the pile tends to hide minor sewing infractions.

2. Pattern. Boutique PDF patterns such as the ones you will find on etsy or youcanmakethis.com, are a great choice for beginners because they normally include step by step instructions, diagrams, and photos. Look for well-established sellers with proven feedback. Choose simple patterns or no-pattern sewing projects created with mostly straight lines, such as pillow covers, blankets, or a simple tote bag. Don't be afraid of gathering or ruffles, though - they are simply created with straight lines as well. Reversible patterns are particularly gratifying for beginners, since all the seams are on the inside of the project and don't need finishing. My shop carries a reversible girls' top pattern, reversible baby dress pattern, and reversible hat pattern for baby and child. Leave buttonholes and zippers for a subsequent project once you have some sewing under your belt.

3. Notions, Tools, and Trims. "Notions" used in the sewing sense means those little sewing extras you need to complete your project, including thread, pins, fasteners like buttons, snaps, elastic, polyfill, etc. Your sewing pattern should have a list of any notions you need. When you have some time, browse around the notions wall of your fabric store to get an idea of what kinds of things are available. Tools you'll need include good sewing scissors, a hand needle, a ruler or measuring tape, and a seam ripper (yes, you'll need one), plus some extra needles for your machine. You will also need an iron and ironing board for pressing as you sew. Don't skip the pressing! Trims are things like rickrack, bias tape, lace, etc. and the requirements for these should also be set out in your pattern.

Fave Crafts Blog Hop!

2010-12-15T16:22:00.000-08:00

Yay for blog hops! Having all these wonderful crafts just a click away is like having a whole box of chocolates at my fingertips. Check out the thumbnail page at the Fave Crafts button above: already I see an adorable ribbon and die-cut flower embellished cupcake that will help feed my new Sizzix addiction. My petal tee tutorial is included in the hop. Get hopping!

Time is Running Out ... Quick Gifts to Sew

2010-12-12T18:42:00.000-08:00

My sewing list for Christmas is thankfully getting shorter, though I have to admit, I keep finding wonderful craft and sewing patterns that I just have to try, so my list is two items down, one item up. I will have to press my hands over my eyes and sing LA LA LA LA so I don't see anymore projects I just have to make.

In case your eyes are open and your ears are unstopped and you're still looking for fast Christmas gifts to sew, try these:

1. My Free How to Make a Petal Tee tutorial. I made my flowers with a die cut machine, but you could cut them by hand and still follow the tute. I'm making one for my Mom. Materials: two tees, one of which fits your giftee. Time required: an evening.

2. Fleece Hat in a Flash! For men and women, boys and girls, babies and ... uh. more babies. All sizes from newborn to Adult XL, and they each take only 30 minutes including a pretty fleece flower (pattern included) or pom pom (yup, I tell you how to do that too.). Materials: 1/3 yard fleece makes 2 XL hats. Time required: 30 minutes per hat.

3. Peas in a Pod Plush Toy. Great for infants through preschoolers. Sew it yourself or give a gift of the Peas in a Pod Sewing Kit that contains everything but the stuffing. Materials: 1/2 yard fleece, Sport/Parka Zipper (you can find ones I custom ordered for this project in my etsy shop), polyfill stuffing, embroidery thread for features, optional craft squeaker, craft rattle, and crinkle material (again, I've got you covered, inexpensive noisemaker kit in my etsy shop). Time: 2-3 hours depending on experience.

4. Lavender sachets. No pattern needed, just cut a few squares of your favorite fabric, sew 3 sides, pour in some lavender flowers, sew up the remaining side, and pink the edges with pinking shears. I 'grow my own' but this etsy seller has reasonably priced lavender blossoms that I have used when my own stash is used up. Put them under a pillow, in a drawer, even in the dryer. Materials: scrap fabric, lavender blossoms. Time: In 30 minutes, you could probably make 5 or 6 or more.

Other patterns to make quick gifts: Clothespin carrying bag for your crunchy friends or your grandma, Cute Christmas Ornaments for your friend the kawaii/amigurumi fan, quick pillow covers to match the decor of anyone you know. Or, there's always Amazon Prime.

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

2010-12-09T14:08:00.000-08:00

TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.
1. What is your holiday wish for your family?

Comfort and joy, health and happiness, an abundance of friendship and love. Oh, and maybe an XBox.

2. What is your Christmas morning / Hanukkah Nightly tradition?

Watching the kids open gifts at some ridiculously early hour, drinking coffee and snacking on coffee cake so we don't have to take a break in the paper-tearing, ribbon-tossing, wonderful insanity.

3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be? (Pinky finger to lip) One Million Dollars! Well, seriously. That would take care of a whole bunch of things, now, wouldn't it.
4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?

We live in a town that goes nuts with Christmas lights. We bundle everyone up and go look at them, and we never seem to tire of it.

5. What games did you play with your family growing up? Monopoly, card games, Scrabble. My parents didn't believe in letting little kids win, and you know, it makes you a pretty competitive little kid. My husband won't play Scrabble with me.
6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood? Making Christmas cookies - sugar cookies with cinnamon red hots and sugar sprinkles to the point you can't see the cookie part. They don't taste that great to me anymore but they are fun to make.
7. Where would you go for a Christmas/Hanukkah-away-from-home trip? Realistically, Tahoe. Dream land style, Hawaii.
8. Check out GameStop and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year? Oohh... no brainer for #1, the Kinect. Karaoke Revolution Glee, Mario Kart for the kids.

How to Make a Petal Tee with a Die Cut Machine

2010-12-08T11:01:00.000-08:00

I 'll never be a scrapbooker. I don't have time to print pictures let alone cut out little cute thematic pieces of paper to go with them. But those scrappy people, they are on to something with those die cut machines! I cut the flowers for this petal tee with my new Sizzix Big Shot. Like it?

(Gosh, thanks! Me too.) Here's how I did it.

2 matching tees from Target clearance. Yup, 2 bucks each

Big Shot machine and Big Shot Originals die Flower Layers #2
hand needle and thread

I cut one tee into die-sized rectangles and layered 4 at once on the die.

I did the first run-through with a piece of regular paper on top to help stabilize, but it turned out I didn't need it so did the rest with fabric only.

Then I made piles by size. For this project, I decided the smallest flower wasn't what I wanted, so I only used the big, medium and smaller flower. Then I layered them, either a big with a medium, medium with a small, or a a big with a small.

Threading a hand needle, I used a running stitch around the center of each 2-layer flower and pulled it to gather it up. What's a running stitch? Go up from the back at the base of one petal, down again at the base of the next, up at the base of the next, and down at the fourth. You've really just made 2 stitches in the flower, then pull it to gather.

Then I attached the flower to the neckline of the other shirt (you know, the one I didn't cut up into bits) with a backstitch. You don't want to use a running stitch all the way through or if your thread gets caught on something, the whole thing will bunch up. What's a backstitch? If you are adding the flowers right to left, as I am, put your needle down through the shirt fabric, then bring it up to the right of where you put it down. Catch some flower fabric, and put it back down to the left of your starting point. This picture shows the backstitch from the inside of the shirt, so it shows up (to the inside of the shirt), down to the right, then (catching some flower fabric) up to the left of the starting point.

Your needle's on the inside of the shirt now. Bring it up a little space away (about an inch and a half depending on what size flowers you're using).

Repeat until your flowers are all along the neckline.

I used about 16 flowers, starting with 2 smaller flowers near the shoulder and then randomized, then ended with 2 small flowers. Then I put my thread in my pocket, but that's an in joke, ha ha.

The back will look kind of messy, but who cares? Here's the back of a Banana Republic embellished tee I shelled out $40 for, and it's messy too.

Enjoy!

Please link to me if you like this tutorial, or better yet, come to my etsy shop and buy scads of my PDF sewing patterns so I can buy more dies for my Big Shot, and I promise I'll post about more crafty things to do with it.

Welcome Allfreesewing newsletter subscribers!

2010-12-06T06:33:00.000-08:00

Allfreesewing.com was kind enough to feature my free Fabric Christmas Stocking pattern and tutorial in their newsletter today, thanks so much if you are visiting from there! Today and tomorrow, take 10% off your PDF Sewing Pattern purchase from my etsy shop, www.tiedyediva.etsy.com with coupon code ALLFREESEWING. Not valid on sewing kits or supplies, expires December 7, 2010. Good worldwide!

Up on the Rooftop - Add Reindeer Antlers to your Fun Fleece Hat

2010-11-24T09:42:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year for sharing, and the time of year for dressing your kids funny. So in the spirit of the season, I share with you a free Baby Reindeer template to use with your Fun Fleece Animal Hats pattern, available as a downloadable PDF pattern from tiedyediva.etsy.com. The antlers are kind of floppy, but that's part of their charm. This works with both Volume 1 (plain style) and Volume 2 ('bomber'/chinstrap style). You can also add reindeer ears if you like; use the cow ear templates from Volume 1. I chose to keep it simple, mostly because I sew during nap time these days, and, well, nap time doesn't always allow for ears and antlers both.

First, download the Antler Template. Click File in the upper left, then Download to save it. Cut 4 antlers, being sure that 2 of them are reversed. Lay each pair right sides together and sew all around using a 1/4" seam allowance, leaving the bottom opening for turning. You'll definitely need your favorite pointy turning tool to help you turn the antlers. I use a chopstick, you can also use a crochet needle or other long thin object so long as it is not so sharp that it might puncture your fleece. Position them at about 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock, raw edges aligned with the edges of your hat crown piece, and continue with the pattern as usual. Enjoy!

FREE PDF Sewing Pattern - Fabric Stocking!

2010-10-24T11:28:00.001-07:00

Fabric stocking with foldover cuff. For other holiday projects you might like, try my PDF Christmas Ornaments pattern or Easy Pillow Cover pattern from my PDF sewing pattern shop, www.tiedyedivapatterns.com

You'll need:

Less than 1/2 yard of each main stocking fabric and lining fabric
1/2 yard light/mid weight fusible interfacing (optional but recommended)
16" x 12" cuff fabric
12" of 5/8" grosgrain ribbon or other hanging strap
printable pattern: Click Here to Download Tie Dye Diva Free Christmas Stocking Pattern

Click the link, then in the left hand corner, click File, Download, to save the printable pattern.

1. Preparing your pieces. Click "download" above and print out and assemble the pattern. Do not overlap the pages, it's fine if there is a gap in the lines where the pages join, just imagine they are there. The top of the stocking should measure 8.5" across. Cut 2 stocking pieces from each of your main fabric, liner, and interfacing. Be sure one of each is reversed! The easiest way to do this is to fold the fabric before cutting; that way you'll cut 2 at once, and one will be reversed. Cut 1 piece for your cuff fabric that is 12" x 16". Follow the manufacturer's instructions for fusing your interfacing to your main stocking pieces. You do not need to interface the lining or cuff.

For purposes of this tutorial, my stocking is red and the lining is the green.

2. Sew your stocking and liner. Pin your main stocking pieces right sides together. Sew around the edges (except for the top) using a 1/2" seam allowance. Trim the seam allowance down to 1/4", and clip the inner curve at the bend in the stocking and outer curves around the toe and heel. This will help it lie nice and flat.

Repeat this entire step for the liner. Turn your liner right side out. Place your main stocking (still inside out) inside the liner, and align your raw upper edges. Put this aside.

3. Prepare the cuff and hanging strap. Place your cuff fabric right (printed) side up. Fold your ribbon or other strap in half, and pin in place along the 12" side, about 1" from the top edge, angled down as shown.

Then fold your fabric in half along an imaginary middle line so that the raw side edges are together. The wrong side of the fabric will be facing out, and your strap will be sandwiched inside this 8” x 12” piece.

Sew along this edge, backstitching and sewing over the ribbon strap again for reinforcement. Trim your seam allowance to 1/4”, including the little bit of ribbon that is sticking through. Remove your inner pin first or your best sewing scissors will suffer! Now you have a tube of a sort. Fold the tube in half lengthwise, wrong sides together (right sides facing out).It's helpful at this point to lay it down as I have done, with the raw edges on top, folded edge on the bottom, and your sewn seam on the left. If you had X-ray vision (ooh ... wouldn't that be cool?), you'd see the ribbon inside where the dotted lines are shown.

4. Put it all together. Now put the cuff around the top of your set-aside stocking. You want all 4 raw top edges aligned (two from your folded cuff, one stocking, one liner). Align the side seams and the raw edges neatly, and pin.

Sew or serge around the top of the stocking, using a 1/2" seam allowance. If you are not using a serger, finish the seam using a zigzag stitch or pinking shears.

Turn your stocking right side out – yup, it’s correct that the seam is on the outside.

Then fold the cuff down into place, covering this seam. Voila, your handy hanging strap will pop up in just the right place. Give the whole thing a good pressing, and you're done.

This tutorial assumes some basic knowledge of sewing techniques. For tutorials with more detail, perfect for first projects and seasoned sewers alike, please check out my instant-download PDF sewing pattern shop for more downloadable How To Sew tutorials with complete step by step instructions, color photos, and full size computer-drafted printable patterns, starting at only $4.95. I have patterns for fleece hats, including our popular fleece animal ear hats in all sizes, Santa-style hats and more, and don't miss the 3 peas in a pod plush toy pattern and our easy pillow cover pattern if you are looking for easy-to-sew great gifts! Merry Christmas!

NEW PDF Sewing Patterns by tiedyediva!

2010-10-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

So many new patterns, and so little blogging, I am sorry! I've been so busy with new patterns since the last post, I couldn't possibly catch up for fear of hogging all the country's bandwidth but want to highlight two of the newest that are great for holidays near and (not so) far.

Halloween is coming! We've got your costume hats. How to Sew Fun Fleece Animal Hats Vol. 2 - known affectionately in house as "Revenge of Fun Fleece Hats". Now you can sew a Bumble Bee hat with antennae, or use the same pattern to make a Ladybug hat or Alien Hat - my favorite custom order this year was a Star Trek Andorian Hat, all in aqua blue. The same pattern provides complete instructions and printable patterns for the popular Dinosaur hat/Monster hat and the super fun and almost pukey-cute Chicken Hat. You can also make a plain bomber-style hat with pom pom top. All have chinstraps with velcro so they stay on and your little ones stay warm.

What's more, you can combine the 'ears' from Fun Fleece Animal Hats Vol. 1 with the Volume 2 bomber style and make a Rabbit, Cat, Bear, or Devil/Cow Hat too.

Moving onward...

Christmas is coming too. You heard it here first. Remember those cute lil' peas I made for my son a few months ago? After watching him play with it day after day, week after week, it occurred to me it would be a great pattern to share, especially for those who want to sew a little gift! How to Sew Three Peas in a Pod Plush Toy shows you how to sew the peapod with zipper (we show you how to sew in the zipper, even if you've never done it before) and the three little peas, which optionally have a craft rattle, squeaker, and crinkle material inside. If you have trouble finding the noisemakers, I have them for sale in an inexpensive kit in my etsy shop.

This makes a wonderful developmental toy - babies are stimulated by cause-and-effect of the noisemakers and can learn to zip and unzip the zipper - great for the 'object permanence' learning phase - now you see it ... now it's gone from the face of the earth. Oh! What?! It's not??!! Amazing!

And if you really wanted to see all the new patterns and things I've been up to, please feel free to visit our Facebook Fan page or my etsy shop, tiedyediva.

Blast from the past

2010-07-10T06:37:00.001-07:00

We are so delighted to have our downloadable ebook sewing patterns carried by a new site, Crafty Mamas, based in Australia. I was admiring how nice our patterns look up there when I saw this photo of my darling little Decorative Diaper Cover model (hm, wonder if I can deduct him as a business expense?) and actually got a misty. This was only a year ago, how quickly they grow!

Sigh. Back to business - Crafty Mamas has a drool-worthy selection of Euro fabrics and a lovely forum full of crafty people too, so be sure to check it out!

Pretty Peas

2010-07-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

I saw a certain sequel to a certain film about playthings last week, and had to come home and make these plush peas in a pod for my little guy.

He loves them and the big kids love that they remind them of their favorite line from the whole movie. Do I really have to say it? "I TOLD YOU KIDS TO STAY OUTTA MY BUTT!"

How to Add Chin Straps to your Sunny Day Sun Hat!

2010-05-30T16:41:00.001-07:00

OK, so you have a pile of adorable Sunny Day Sun Hats but your little angel just won't keep them on? This tutorial shows you how to add chin straps to the Sunny Day Sun Hat pattern, available in my etsy shop.

Start this tutorial when you've reached the bottom of Page 18 of the eBook, after you've turned your hat brim right-side-out and pressed it.

Materials you'll need:
*16" x 1.5" fabric, or twill tape, grosgrain ribbon, or even ready-made bias tape.
*1 inch long piece of 1" wide hook and loop tape (ok, I'm talking about Velcro®)

Here's an overview of making the straps. Right click and open image in a new window if needed.

So, if you are making your straps from fabric, begin by pressing your strip in half lengthwise, with right sides together. Sew around the open edges using a 1/4" seam allowance.

Cut/trim as needed this single piece into two straps. I made the straps unequal lengths so that the closure wouldn't be directly under the chin. By trial and error, the best length for my 12-month old's straps were 6.5" and 5". If you are making straps for a larger or smaller child, you'll need to adjust the lengths accordingly, but you will be able to make both straps for up to our largest hat size from the 16" piece.

Now, the tricky part is getting these small, closed-ended straps turned right-side out. A handy tool that I keep blabbering on about is a loop turner - a long thin metal rod with a hook on one end, cheap and easy to find. Turning even a closed-ended tube is easy with this tool. If you don't have one, you can pin a safety pin to the closed end and with some fiddling, push it down through the tube. If that is too fiddly for you, an alternative is to sew your folded fabric down only the long side, leaving the short sides open, then once you have turned this (fairly easily) using a safety pin, tuck the raw edges of one short side under, press, and stitch. You can leave one raw end of each strap unsewn because it will be hidden between the layers of your hat.

Press the straps well. Cut two 1/2" long pieces of 1" wide hook-and-loop tape and sew the rough, poky side to the short strap and the soft end to your longer strap. It's really handy to stick the hook-and-loop tape to your strap using Wash Away Wonder Tape, or even a swipe of a glue stick, so that you don't have pins in the way when you're trying to sew a tiny piece of Velcro to a tiny strap.

">

Now, pin the straps to your finished hat brim, lining up the raw edges. I oriented the hat brim so the seam was on the bottom, and pinned the straps pretty much in the middle, just slightly more toward the front. Notice that the strap on the left is the longer strap, and it is (soft) Velcro side UP. The strap on the right is the shorter strap, and it is scratchy Velcro side DOWN.

Check that the two sides are even by folding the hat brim in half, using the seam as your guide.

Pin the brim to your main hat crown as usual, per the eBook instructions. The straps will be on the outside of the brim, just like this:

Baste all around per the instructions. You want these straps out of the way for the next step, so I found it easiest to Velcro them together on top of the hat, just like this:

Now when you place the liner over your hat and brim (top of page 20), you'll simply place it right over the straps too.

Continue with the eBook instructions until you've got something incredibly adorable, like this:

This method works for reversible hats also - the straps simply lie over the brim on one side and under on the other. I didn't make this hat to be reversible, but if I did, it would be worn just like this:

Have fun!

How to Make A Sunny Day Sun Hat is available in my etsy shop.

tute hat made with Amy Butler Full Moon Dot in Lime lined with Michael Miller organic cotton sheeting. My older soon took one look and said "Cool - peas!"

Great deal at Fabric.com

2010-05-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Good deal on fabrics from Fabric.com this week - go through eBates for 11% back, use code annv1 for 20% off and they always have free shipping on $35+. I got a whole pile of great stuff!

How to Sew a (BIGGER) Clothespin Carrier!

2010-05-10T11:41:00.000-07:00

I was asked recently by a pattern customer if I could make our clothespin carrier pattern larger for people who have larger families and therefore, more clothespins! It's so easy, I am happy to share it here.

This tutorial uses my eBook pattern How to Sew a Handy Clothespin Carrier, available in my etsy downloadble sewing eBook pattern shop www.tiedyediva.etsy.com.

Begin by printing the printable pattern included with the instructional eBook. Before assembling Piece 1A and 1B, however, place them on another blank piece of printer paper with the right-hand edges of the pattern aligned with the edge of the paper beneath.

Separate the two pieces - here I have separated them 4 inches, which will make the carrier 2 inches deeper. You don't want to make it too deep or you won't be able to reach the pins at the bottom of the bag. Tape them down to the piece of paper beneath.

Use a ruler and pen to connect the "Cut on Fold" edge of the pattern.

Then cut it out and proceed with the instructions as usual - that's all there is to it! Carry on!

The standard and large sized peg bags shown above are available in my etsy shop where I offer "real things" for sale - www.tiedyedivadesigns.etsy.com.

Catching up Is Hard to Do!

2010-04-14T11:13:00.001-07:00

So many new patterns, so few blog entries! Kate and I have been patternmaking up a storm, a spring storm that is! We have added a "Euro" or "French bloomers" ruffle-butt style diaper cover, this book is an add-on to our Decorative Diaper Cover book that shows you how to make the ruffles and add them to your plain diaper cover. The bundle of both books - the complete Decorative (Plain) Diaper Cover and the add-on Euro Ruffles book - is $9.99. If you have already purchased the Decorative Diaper Cover book and want just the Euro ruffle-back instructions, let me know, the cost is only $2.

Find it, along with our plain Diaper Cover pattern, ruffle-back diaper cover pattern, and other NEW offering, the Skirted Diaper Cover Pattern, in the Diaper Cover Pattern section of my etsy shop.

Sharp eyes didn't miss that adorable hat! Another new offering I am just crazy about is our Sunny Day Sun Hat pattern! Only $6.95 and we show you how to make sun hat with or without a ruffled brim for sizes newborn through youth 8.

Find that one along with our Fleece Animal Hats and other hat patterns in the Hat Pattern section of my etsy shop.

Tie Dye Diva Designs Resell Alert - Put on a Hippie Face!

2010-02-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my Google alerts, I spotted this happy face tie dye resell of mine on eBay in size 18-24 months/2T. Spiral dyed ruffle tank with appliqued happy face (cut from my favorite fabric ever, that went out of print and was never seen again!) and matching purple ruffle shorts.

Oh, how I miss my dyeing days! Seeing this makes me ache to go splash some dye around.

Drooling over Fabric Hound!

2010-02-04T09:14:00.000-08:00

Last month, I was the very lucky winner of a $50 gift certificate to www.fabrichound.com, an online fabric shop with a gorgeous selection and super fabulous and fun owner, too. I had so much fun picking out my FREE fabrics! They arrived quickly and are just so beautiful and inspirational.

There's a mix of designers in there, but they all pull together so beautifully. I love how the dots in Patty Young's Flora and Fauna (third from the left, the lime and fuchsia floral) size up so well with the Ta-Dot (aqua dot second from the left) and Sandi Henderson's Meadow dot, too (yellow/red/lime, first on the left).

Here's a hint for our eBook pattern followers: I am cutting into two of these today to make a sample for our next eBook!

If you are offended by early Christmas offerings don't read this until Friday

2009-11-24T09:08:00.001-08:00

I am that person who is always freezing when everyone else is just fine. The one who, when you take my hand in church, or when I touch you when passing the bread, makes you exclaim loudly, "Your hands are so cold!" I love the sun and suck it up like a lizard. Christmas is the only thing that gets me through the long dark days of Winter, so indulge me in starting a few days early.

Fleece Santa hats in the etsy house! Learn how to sew your own Santa hat with our step by step, full-color photo PDF instructions and pattern, or I'll do it for you for $12 ($14 for cow-print). Custom colors, up to three per hat (for the hat, band, and pom pom). Pick team colors and wear it all through the cold season.

Why spend $14 on a Santa hat when you can get one at your Dollar store for a buck? This is a warm, functional, cozy cap, machine washable, and made from quality anti-pill fleece. Most sizes will last until next season or several seasons to come (sizes are 0-3 months; 3-12 months; 1-3 years; 2-6 years; 4-8 years). It's custom made just for you in the colors you request. Best of all, it's handmade with love and care right here in California, not in some factory overseas. Thank you for supporting handmade!

Come visit us on Facebook and win free eBooks!

2009-10-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

If you are on Facebook, please come become a "fan" of our newly-created Tie Dye Diva and Monkeysbug eBook Patterns page on Facebook! Here you can post and see photos of completed projects, discuss the patterns, get help, and - yes - receive discounts and promotions just for Fan Page members!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tie-Dye-Diva-and-Monkeysbug-eBook-patterns/158237514307?ref=mf#

For starters, we're holding a drawing for free eBook patterns once we make 50 fans - one lucky winner will win three eBooks of their choice, and three other winners will receive one eBook each. We invite you to come join and suggest the page to your sewing friends.

Tie Dye Diva spider web resell caught just in time!

2009-10-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Spotted a Tie Dye Diva Designs classic spider web tee for boys on eBay, snatch it up in time for Halloween! A great design he'll love to wear all Fall and Winter, too. (Photo above is my own, you'll need to see the seller's eBay listing for the actual tee for sale. I am not related to the seller, this is a resell of an item I custom-created for the seller in the past.)

And now a little something for the ladies...ruffled diaper covers!

2009-10-17T10:18:00.000-07:00

Following up our How to Sew Decorative Diaper Covers eBook is a second volume for the little lady in your life - How to Sew Fancy Ruffled Diaper Covers! Use this eBook tutorial to make some super ruffly little bloomers for under her dresses or for those absurdly cute baby photos. This pattern takes a bit of time, but the gorgeous, professional results are well worth it.

We include all the instructions and patterns you'll need to make adorable ruffled diaper covers in sizes 0 through 24 months. Complete detailed and photographed instructions are included.

You asked for it!

2009-09-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

By popular request, we've made our hot-selling How To Make Fun Fleece Animal Hats book available with patterns and instructions for teen and adult sizes! The downloadable book contains all the instructions and patterns you'll need to make adorable animal hats in adult Small/Medium or Large/XL to fit teens and adults with heads up to 23.5". Complete detailed and photographed instructions are included for making Bear, Bunny, Cat, Cow and Devil hats - come on, you know you want one for going trick-or-treating with the kids!

Click the picture to go to the eBook section of my etsy shop!

Tie Dye Diva is Spotted!

2009-08-15T07:11:00.000-07:00

OK, well, I'm not really spotted, but some resells of mine were! And darn cute ones, if that's OK for me to say. This wonderful customer of mine kept them in excellent condition and is now reselling them on eBay. Click below to see the onesie in 12-18 months, she also has a matching tee for bigger girls.

Now something for the other end

2009-08-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Now a brand new eBook for the top side of your baby, More Fun Fleece Hats! We'll show you step by step how to sew adorable pointed fleece hats in sizes infant through youth. Make Santa hats, Elf hats, Princess Hats and more with one simple pattern! We even show you how to make a big fluffy pom pom for the top. Great for newborn portraits and in team colors too. You know where to find it, yup, my etsy shop.

Tiedyediva's got you COVERED!

2009-08-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

Or your baby, anyway. You're on your own. Brand new from tiedyediva and Monkeysbug, our newest downloadable eBook pattern, How to Sew Decorative Diaper Covers. Sew 'em right up and pair 'em with a onesie or tee, or keep her covered under her dresses. They also look darn cute all by themselves, no? You can buy this pattern as well as our downloadable patterns for dresses, skirts, fleece animal hats, clothespin bags and more in my etsy shop.

The Practical Pram

2009-07-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

This year, my son made friends with a boy whose mother is from Denmark. Besides loving her sense of style, her insistence on foods made from scratch and her gorgeous Danish furniture, I picked up this lovely Scandinavian child-rearing tip: sleep your child outside. Her younger daughter is 18 months old and until recently, took all her naps in a European-style pram, right in the out of doors. I learned that in Denmark, babies nap outdoors in all weather, even in the snow. Of course I immediately wanted a pram for my newborn, only to find out they are hard to find and often over $1000.

Then - serendipity - my favorite swag site, Bellaziza's favorite things, is giving away a Microlite Toro stroller this week, which has the option of converting to a pram with the addition of an infant carrycot, and is priced slightly lower than some other prams I have seen, at around $700. Still quite a bundle for a stroller, so I am entering the giveaway and crossing my fingers and toes.

You can enter too: Bellaziza's Favorite Things.

Everything I Needed to Know I Learned from my 5 week Old

2009-07-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

Some hard lessons being learned here in the Diva household. Babies are fun, babies are cute, babies are a lot of work. You would think I know this since this is number 3 for me, but somehow I had forgotten just how much a baby completely takes over your life, much as the pain of labor has already been forgotten. I have removed custom items from my etsy shop for now, as it has become crystal clear I just don't have time to be sewing right now. (I do have some ready to ship items, including diaper covers, and I will keep replenishing as time allows, and of course my eBooks are in stock and still ship within 8 hours.)

The letting go will feel good in time, I hope. For now, I am in a little mourning period for my fabrics and trims, for the hum and whir of my sewing machine, for the creative outlet I love so much. This is balanced by the sweet breath of a sleeping baby on my neck and the coos and first smiles, and the knowledge that this time is so precious and fleeting.

Something Else New From Tie Dye Diva Designs

2009-06-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

I spent the "bonus" 2 weeks of my pregnancy sewing and sewing. Knowing it would be hot when he finally made his debut, and not liking to have a baby lying around in only a diaper, I made Baby an entire wardrobe of cute little decorative diaper covers. My favorites:

Now available in custom sizes infant to toddler 18-24 months and many more adorable prints in my etsy shop.

Something New From Tie Dye Diva Designs

2009-06-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome, Baby Colton. You were worth waiting for.

The way-yay-ting is the hardest part ...

2009-05-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

Well, my due date came and went on Thursday and I still don't feel any closer to going into labor. I don't feel like doing much, actually, except sitting and sewing, so this is going to be the best custom-dressed baby in town by the time he gets here!

I looked around and realized in my concerns over BPA-laden toys, I neglected to get the little guy any toys at all. So I sewed up one of these teething carrot toys, then a bunch, each made from organic cotton fleece, bamboo fill, and lightly hand-dyed with professional procion dyes that leave no loose dyes in the fibers. Come n' get em in my etsy shop. I also have ready to ship hanging clothespin holders, lavender fairy sachets and more, and will be shipping within my usual time frame of 48 hours.

Free US shipping until the baby's birthdate to anyone who promises to send along their positive thoughts for getting this baby to come on out and play sooner rather than later. Either me know before check out, or, I will refund via Paypal.

We have a WINNER!

2009-05-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

Girls and kitties everywhere love the Tiered Flouncy Sundress Pattern!

Thank you to those who newly subscribed or opted-in to be a continuing subscriber for our eBook patterns newsletter. (You'll only receive a newsletter when we have a new eBook release or a special deal for newsletter subscribers, so if you still want to sign up, check out the purple box in the sidebar!)

The Randomizer chose lucky #13 as our FREE EBOOK winner, congratulations to Susan, who wins 3 free How to Sew eBooks of her choice from the eBook section of my etsy shop!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2009-05-14T06:08:00.000-07:00

I have admitted before I have an unnatural love for my clothes line. For me, it turns the drudgery of a weekly chore into one of life's simple pleasures. I love using the gentle breeze and the sun to dry my family's wash just as my grandmother did. I love the smell left in them, one without compare, something like water mixed with wind. I swear, I fall asleep immediately under a line-dried sheet. And it goes without saying, I love it because it's FREE, no gas or electricity needed.

I've noticed an uptick in sales of my How to Sew a Handy Clothespin Carrier pattern in the last week and each one makes my heart glad, as I imagine newly-sewn pretty peg bags, swaying in the breeze somewhere in the world, alongside sweet scented laundry drying in the sun.

Speaking of sewing eBooks, tomorrow is the last day to join my mailing list to be entered into a contest to win 3 free downloadable sewing patterns of your choice, chosen from the eBook section of my etsy shop. You can sign up using the purple box in the sidebar over there ---->

2009-05-08T14:30:00.000-07:00

Lavender's blue, dilly dilly

Rosemary's green
When I am King, dilly dilly
You shall be Queen...

- English Folk Song

I started making these pretty lavender filled sachets because we had to use unscented laundry products for my daughter's sensitive skin. I loved the pureness but missed the fresh scent of clean laundry. "Dryer fairies" saved the day, simply tossed into the dryer with damp clothes, everything came out smelling sweet.

We also slip one of these inside the pillowcase of anyone who is having trouble sleeping, the children especially appreciate having a fairy-friend there while they drift off to sleep. If the fragrance is too strong, the sachet can be placed under the entire pillow rather than just inside the pillowcase.

New to my etsy shop, available in bundles of two, either large or small sized.

I'm giving away FREE eBooks!

2009-04-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

Want to be notified when a new Tie Dye Diva and Monkeysbug Tees downloadable clothing pattern eBook hits our shops, and learn about special deals and sales? Join our mailing list! All new and continuing subscribers will be entered into a drawing to win THREE FREE eBooks of their choice from my shop, up to a $30 value! The drawing will be May 15. US and International subscribers welcome.

Sew your way into Summer!

2009-04-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous weather has me ready to sew up some summery sundresses - well, the gorgeous weather and the fact I'll have a newborn by the time summer actually comes along so I need to get sewing now! Kate and I have released our newest eBook just in time for warmer weather ... introducing The Breezy Tank Dress! Of course, you don't have to make it with a tank, you can use a short or even a long-sleeved tee, so you can make year-round styles from this one pattern.
Funny thing, my co-author Kate and I both independently chose Jennifer Paganelli prints for our sample dresses! The sunny style just seems to call out for gorgeous florals like these. You can find the downloadable pattern and instructions in my shop's eBook section, either by itself, or take advantage of our bundle packs and save 20% when you buy any 2 or 3 of our dress patterns.

Getting ready for baby!

2009-04-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

This is the last week for custom orders from my etsy shop, I will be removing fun fleece animal ear hats and other made-to-order items from my shop on April 30 in order to prepare for the birth of my third baby! Ready-to-ship hats, coffee cuffs and other items, as well as eBooks, will remain in stock and will ship in the usual time frame - 48 hours for mailed items and 8 hours for eBooks.

Three days for big deals!

2009-04-15T10:59:00.001-07:00

Adagio Bleu's Spring Sale ends April 18, if you haven't had a chance to take advantage of some great etsy deals, there is still time! I am offering:

*Coffee cuffs now only $4.75 (were $5.50) AND receive a bonus cuff of my choosing with the purchase of any 2 cuffs. Three cuffs for $9.50, wow! Come see my new Moda Monkey cuff!

*Save over 20% on eBooks by buying a 2-dress, 3-dress, or Picnic Dress and Fleece Capelet pattern BUNDLE. See my eBook section!

*Adult fleece animal ear hats 20% off all month! OR ... make your own, purchase my How to Make Fun Fleece Animal Ear Hats eBook and ask for the supplement for making adult-sized hats - free for a limited time only!

Search ABSD on etsy for more deals from my Adagio Bleu Studios team mates.

I Made This!

2009-04-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

Just sharing some fun new things I made with eBook patterns by my Adagio Bleu team mates! First is made from monkeydoodle's Peek Pleats eBook, it was so easy to make and came together quickly with a minimum of fabric:

I made this darling skirt from the last of my Alexander Henry's Smitten Kitten fabric, with a coordinating Moda rickrack print that peeks out from behind the pleats. The skirt itself is for sale in my etsy shop, ready to ship in size 6/7.

Then I tried my hand at something completely new for me: bow making! Heather at LesTissusBows has finally shared her secrets for her trademark "Raggie Bows" in her brand new eBook and I have to admit, I impressed myself with the result! I seem to have lost my bag of blank french clips but here's the pouf I made, ready to affix to a clip and wow the town, or at least the third grade.

Finally before I go, there's a new swag alert at Bellaziza's Favorite Things that is right up my alley that I wanted to share, be sure to check out $200 worth of child-friendly non-plastic loot from Lifewithoutplastic.com.

It's a Spring Thing

2009-03-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

The members of the Adagio Bleu Studios street team have broken loose with our Spring Thing Sale starting today! Here are some from me:

*Coffee cuffs now only $4.75 (were $5.50) AND receive a bonus cuff of my choosing with the purchase of any 2 cuffs. Three cuffs for $9.50, wow!

*Save over 20% on eBooks by buying a 2-dress, 3-dress, or Picnic Dress and Fleece Capelet pattern bundle. See my eBook section or search BUNDLE!

*Adult fleece animal ear hats 20% off all month!

And, something new in my shop today, Deluxe Soft Baby Play Blocks! I made up some of these for my own baby and loved them so much I thought I'd share.

So, what's "deluxe" about my baby blocks?

*Quality quilting fabrics alternated with undyed, 100% organic cotton fleece placed fuzzy-side out, giving baby a variety of textures to explore.

*Set of 3 includes one rattle block, one crinkle block, and one squeaker block. Within the securely sewn blocks, the rattle and squeaker are separately sewn into fabric pouches for an extra layer of safety should the block ever become opened. (The blocks are securely stitched, however, should a hole appear, they should be taken away from baby to avoid a choking hazard. Please contact me if you would like plain blocks with only stuffing inside at a lower cost.)

*Stuffed with eco-friendly bamboo fiberfill, naturally antibacterial.

*Ribbon loop for attaching to play rings on stroller, etc.

*Perfect-for-holding 3.5" size.

*Attractively packaged for gift-giving.

Surface washable.

Shown are the Amy Butler and Developmental sets; in the next day or so I will be listing more baby blocks in other fabrics including Boutique pink and brown, sock monkey, and more.

Search ABSD on etsy for more deals from Adagio Bleu Studios team mates!

Finished!

2009-03-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

I finished the last step of my YCMT sew-along sock monkey quilt yesterday and am happy with the results! At first I was really daunted by the idea of hand blind-stitching the entire 36" square perimeter, but it actually went really quickly and I got to feel a little like Ma Ingalls, though I was watching The Simpsons on Hulu.com at the time rather than rocking by the light of a oil candle.

Determined to try to use actual scraps as much as possible, I made a really "patchy" binding out of 3" x 4" rectangles, and just about used up my sock monkey scrap bag! To get the most length out of my scraps, I opted to straight-sew the short edges of the patches together rather than sew on the diagonal per the sew-along. There's a reason for sewing on the diagonal; when you fold the binding in half, if you have sewn on the diagonal, your seam is distributed. When you straight-sew, the seam is doubled in the middle of your folded binding and adds a little bulk. I decided this didn't bother me, and I really like the fun patchiness of the binding!

Big thanks to Kim and the crew at You Can Make This for the excellent sew-along!

The cat has some unusual fascination with the quilt ... I don't get it.

Bundle UP!

2009-03-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

Now that nearly everyone is feeling the economic pinch, it's a great time to learn to sew! This may sound over the top, but I have to use the word "empowering" for the feeling I get from being able to make my own fabric items and not have to buy premade things that often are not exactly what I wanted anyway. Looking around the baby's room (pictures soon!), I feel proud to have made his curtains, lampshade, changing pad covers, "boppy" style nursing pillow, bassinet sheets, and soon-to-be-finished quilt and pillow, not to mention all the lovely baby clothes, booties, plush toys, and burp cloths tucked in the drawers. (I'm working on several sets of baby blocks, photos of those to come next week.) Everything matches my theme, and much of it is made from 100% organic cotton, because I made it myself for a fraction of what these items would have cost if purchased retail.

Monkeysbug and I want to help you out in these times too, and are offering new bundle packs of our eBook patterns so you can save over 20% on your purchase, and then save even more by sewing your own little girl's dresses, over and over using the same pattern we've provided you. Each of our dress patterns provide the instructions and printable pattern you'll need from size 2 to 8, so you can create years and years worth of dresses for her from one pattern! We're offering a "you-choose" bundle of 2 dress patterns, a "you-choose" bundle of 3 dress patterns, or a bundle that includes our two newest patterns, the Picnic Dress and Easy Fleece Capelet, all at a 20% discount. You'll find them in the eBook section of my etsy shop.

A blast from the past

2009-02-26T06:36:00.000-08:00

Spotted my tie*dye*diva*designs Hippie Chick resell on eBay, one of my favorite sets ever with the full twirl pant and appliqued tie dye tee. (Oh, how I wish I could find some of that fun smiley fabric again!) If you have a size 6 girl, get bidding - started at only .99!

But wait - there's more!

2009-02-25T09:01:00.001-08:00

One more new eBook from Tie Dye Diva Designs and Monkeysbug Tees - we're excited about this one because it really fills a need we saw in children's clothing eBooks - an easy-to-sew capelet pattern to keep the chill off her shoulders until Summer comes! This is the perfect keep-warm alternative for those who don't knit or crochet.

We've designed it to be reversible, and embellishment is entirely up to you - silk flowers, bows or little crocheted motifs are just a few ideas ... or how cute would it be with some fabric yo-yo flowers (easy tute here by Heather Bailey) that match the dress?

Further, we've priced it at only $4.95 - you could whip up several of these in every color, with removable embellishments, and have an entire wardrobe of them in no time for just a few dollars. We hope you enjoy it - come see larger photos and details in the eBook section of my etsy shop!

Celebrating ... our newest "How To Sew" eBook

2009-02-23T12:16:00.000-08:00

Kate (monkeysbug tees) and I are celebrating the launch of our newest eBook, How to Sew The Picnic Dress! This eBook contains all the instructions and printable patterns you'll need to make this adorable strappy sundress in size 2 through 8. You'll learn to make details including the unique crisscross back, darling gathered pockets, and sweet layered hem.

This dress pattern is so versatile for Spring and Summer, I can see it in shabby florals, fruit prints as we've done on the cover, or a fun Hawaiian print. Keep watching this blog in the next few days for our launch of the Easy and Elegant Capelet ebook to keep the chill off her shoulders until Summer!

Special thanks to Jacqueline and Whitney for the just-perfect photos.

Two days left to enter

2009-02-21T07:06:00.000-08:00

Two days left to enter Bellaziza's Favorite Things belly swag giveaway - it was the first thing I did this morning! (OK, after my cup of decaf and morning cuddle with the kids - two things I can't start my day without.)

I am looking for something to make today, maybe some boutique burp cloths, there are a lot of great free tutes out there for making them. I also see a great pattern from You Can Make This for a shopping cart cover ... I have some fab Alexander Henry Bangle Dot print that would be great for it.

Finally, my good friend Kate (Monkeysbug Tees) and I are finishing up two new eBooks we think you'll love! Here's a little sneak peek:

In the meantime, if you have the sewing bug like I do today, check out any of our current eBook patterns: Flouncy Tiered Sundress, Four Quarters Summer Shift, Ultra Twirly Tiered Tee Dress and more!

Tummy Time

2009-02-19T07:59:00.000-08:00

So, have I mentioned I'm pregnant? Oh, just in every post since September? OK, then. I'm now nearly 7 months along and have quite the belly goin' on. Just in time for this fabulous giveaway of tummy-loving couture from my favorite swag site, Bellaziza's Favorite Things. Check it out!

Still monkeying around with fabric

2009-02-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

I used one of my leftover pinwheel blocks and the techniques I learned from the YCMT sew-along to create a matching pillow for my quilt! After creating the pillow face 17" x 17" so it would be 1" larger on each side than the 16" x 16" pillow I was covering, I used the techniques from my favorite envelope pillow tutorial to create the envelope-style back from my banana-print flannel - simply adding a 13" x 17" piece of flannel to the top of the pillow face and a 10" x 17" to the bottom and following the instructions from there.

(Quilt) Top O' the Mornin' to ya

2009-02-14T11:03:00.000-08:00

I had a quiet morning at home and was able to put the borders on my You Can Make This Sew-Along quilt. I love that the make-it-up-as-you go factor gave me a lot of creativity along the way - this is not the kind of quilt I would have planned out had I planned it, but I love it! I had some "Malibu Monkey" print (told you, I have a LOT of Moda Monkey fabric) that turned out to be perfect for the inner border, I really like the "marching monkeys" effect! I hope it works to back the quilt with flannel, as I have some of the brown banana print in flannel that would fit perfectly. My (nearly) finished quilt size is almost a perfect 36" x 36". I think I'll make a matching pillow cover while I wait for the next steps to tell me how to back the quilt.

Looking back

2009-02-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

Nine or ten years ago, I was working as a lawyer and hardly what anyone would call a crafty person. Then life took its turns, and when I became pregnant, maternal hormones came rushing in along with knitting needles and yarn, embroidery hoops and thread, later followed by dyes of many hues, sewing machines, sergers and piles of gorgeous fabrics.

My first knitting project ever was a knitted pony for the baby in my burgeoning belly. I checked KNITTING FOR KIDS! out of the library with mild to moderate embarrassment and set to creating this lovely, soft toy, handmade with love.

No, not that one. That's the second knit pony I ever made. The first one is this one, here:

It doesn't make sense to me now, but somehow the definition of "row' confused me, and I wound up with balloon-animal stubs instead of lean and coltish pony legs. Then when it came time to cast on additional stitches to make the pony's head, I didn't realize it made such a lot of difference if you were on an odd row or even row at the time. I was nearly done with the head when I realized it was backward. My husband laughed and suggested I leave it that way. In an uncharacteristic moment of putting aside perfectionism, I kept knitting along, creating Retro, the Wrongway Pony.

He's a family favorite now, having lasted through that first baby's teething and the second baby's tossing about. As he awaits our third child, he lives at the foot of my son's bed, along with the well-proportioned, forward-looking second pony, who no one ever loved enough to give a name.

Retro came to mind as I pieced together the quilt top of my first quilt (sew along here) and realized to my dismay that a single pinwheel square is turning the wrong way. It would require a lot of stitch ripping at this point to fix it, and so I decided to leave it. As it gets handed down, the children can play "find the wonky pinwheel" and it will probably be the best-loved quilt in the house.

Maybe, I think, Retro is not so much looking the wrong way, as he is simply looking behind him to learn from the past, much as I am today.

What could be better than this?

2009-01-30T16:30:00.000-08:00

Not only awesome news about the CPSIA - a one-year stay of enforcement from the CPSC and an announcement by Sen. Jim DeMint (R) SC, that he's introducing legislation next week to overhaul the CPSIA, including expressly allowing "component testing" but also ... my bunny hat featured along with the breaking news Storque article on etsy!

I feel so quilty

2009-01-29T08:49:00.000-08:00

Still sewing along with YCMT! I love this latest step, we've put the squares together into strips and filled in the side triangles with fabric pieces. This gave me the opportunity to add a little more brown into the quilt, which I was hoping to do. I like it!

Clementine does too. Or maybe her immediate need to sit upon it means she hates it, you never can tell with cats.

It's not too late to sew along with YCMT if you want to try making your first quilt, and while you are there, please take a moment to vote for You Can Make This as one of America’s Top Mom-Owned Businesses. I personally can't say enough great things about the site, it empowers stay/work-at-home moms (and anyone else who wants to learn to sew or expand their abilities) to create beautiful, useful items for personal use and home businesses, and as the co-author of five eBooks (and two more in the works, more on that soon!) I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my own business by teaching others to sew. Please take a minute to vote and let them know how much you value the site.

FELONY FASHION ALERT!

2009-01-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

There is so much to say about the misguided Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) that I have not known where to begin though it has not been out of my mind for a single moment. I have thought about it, brainstormed over it, wrung my hands over it, gotten angry, and yes, even cried about it (I plead pregnant on the last one).

In a nutshell, the CPSIA is a set of new consumer safety regulations that affects all items for children ages 12 and under, including clothing and accessories, books, games, toys, etc., and requires expensive third-party testing for both lead and pthalates of all such items for sale. The extensive testing that is required for items that are known to be lead-free (fabric and thread, for example) is too expensive for independent handcrafters such as me to be able to afford. This testing is mandatory beginning February 10. In August, the rules change again and destructive testing
must be done on each item by certified labs. The fines for violating this new law is $100,000 and possible jail time.

What does this mean for - for example - me? It means my business is wiped out. I can't possibly afford the testing on each "batch" of items I handcraft. It means no more fleece animal ear hats, no more tie dye tees, no handsewn twirly dresses, no more plush bunnies. It means I am stuck with hundreds, probably thousands, of dollars worth of fabrics, clothing blanks, dyes, notions, and supplies. It means my pre-paid advertising, my business cards, my hang tags and sew-in labels are all worthless, it means I have mailers and labels and tissue I will never be able to use. It means I'm out of my source of income at a time the economy stinks and I have a baby on the way.

What does this mean for you? If you create for children as I do, it means all of the above. If you like to buy children's handmade items (as I also do), if you like to shop etsy or eBay or your local craft fair or holiday bazaar, it means you are out of luck. No baby quilts, no handknit sweaters, no cuddly teddies, no floaty tutus, no clever tee shirts. It means more business for Target and Walmart, whose suppliers can afford the required testing.

Yet, handcrafters are not going gentle into this goodnight. The CPSIA is widely considered to be poorly written and in need of exceptions or an overhaul to avoid the unintended consequences I have set out above. Join me and hundreds of other children's boutique designers as we promote awareness of all that could be lost should the CPSIA go forward as written. Search "Boutique Felony" on ebay January 27 through February 3 for items created by our loving hands, and have a chance to buy them before they are "banned hazardous products". If you create, come join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=46891817335.

A few of my Favorite Things

2009-01-17T07:19:00.000-08:00

You probably noticed I like to sew. And if you could see my sewing room, you'd know that lately, I like to sew for Baby, who is due in May. And if you've known me longer than a few minutes, you probably know I like FREE. So ... what could be better than an awesome baby gadget, a supreme online fabric store and FREE? Check out these giveaways:

This one, at Fabric Hound, celebrates a first birthday and is giving away a $100 gift certificate and other great prizes:

Lanie Jane is so generously giving away a to-die-for bundle of Patty Young's delicious Andalucia fabrics. Patty, I knew ya when!

And Bellaziza's Favorite things has two great swag prizes, a Beaba Babycook and a year's subscription to Relish:

Sew far, so good

2009-01-16T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well, my seam ripper has been my close friend, but I have finished the "pinwheel" blocks for my YCMT sew-along quilt. Geometry is not my strong point, and I wound up with a few wonky non-pinwheely blocks and one that for whatever reason was just off ... left-handed or something. Now they are ripped, re-sewn and finished and I'm ready for the next step.

Sew sew sewing along ... with YCMT!

2009-01-14T09:35:00.000-08:00

So yesterday my husband said to me "Quilting? That's great, honey, I am so glad you have another new hobby!"

OK, so I made that up. But I did start my first quilting project, via a sew-along with You Can Make This. What's a sew-along? Kind of like a book club, sewing-style. A bunch of people making the same project, step-by-step, together. Kim is leading us in making a no-stress quilt, and it's not too late to join if you don't mind doing a little catch-up. I have some catching up to do myself, I have about 2/3 of my squares cut and about half of them pieced and pressed, but am waiting for a certain fabric I already bought to come in the mail. Since I have now purchased enough Moda Sock Monkey fabrics to tent the house, I am naturally using those.

I'll be posting updates as we sew along! Come join us: YCMT Blog Sew Along

Speaking of updates, don't forget about the Bellaziza's Favorite things Babycook and Relish magazine giveaways - I have my entries in!

A strange (but wonderful) new world

2009-01-13T08:03:00.001-08:00

I am expecting our third child in May. The last time I was pregnant was 7 years ago! It makes me sound like an old-timer to say this, but things sure have changed! Strollers look like lunar landers to me, organic products are finally easily accessible, and soon I will be able to buy pthalate-free baby products ... something I never knew was in my prior babies' products to begin with.

Here's another wonderful invention: The Beaba Babycook. Cook it, puree it, defrost it and/or reheat it, all with the same BPA-free appliance. Wow! I made some of my own baby food in the past and that meant steaming in a pot, cleaning the pot, pureeing it with a hand-held baby food mill in teeny single-serving size batches, cleaning the mill, freezing in ice cube trays, popping out into freezer bags and cleaning the tray, then defrosting in a dish and cleaning the dish. I need this!

I was thrilled to see my favorite giveaway site, Bellaziza's Favorite Things, is giving one away this week, check it out at the link or button on my sidebar!

You're darn right they match

2008-12-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

I love matching sibling sets, and will put them on my kids as long as they'll let me. Here's what they'll be wearing for Christmas this year, though hopefully looking a little more polished for the big day, with a dress shirt and maybe even, I dunno, combed hair.

The dress pattern is my own Ultra Twirly Tiered Tee Dress, available for download from my etsy shop, and the adorable matching tie pattern from PatchworKids is available at www.youcanmakethis.com

And ... JOY! Next year I can add a matching appliqued onesie, too.