Pretty Packages

I'm slowly getting better at the presentation of gifts rather than stopping at the thoughtfulness of gifts themselves. Although, I also sent off a package this afternoon for which I had to use unorthodox packing materials due to the nature of the contents and couldn't find my tissue paper or anything else cute to make it work. My apologies to that online friend! I'm anxious for all recipients involved to get their special deliveries if it means they'll be half as thrilled as I was to get my own package in the mail today! I've got a few things to share in that department this coming week so I'll save it for then.

I hope your weekend has been extra special!
xoxo,
Rachel

Fall Weather Makes Me Want To Start New Projects

You can see all of Carrie Strine's gorgeous work in her flickr feed.
All photos above are directly from there.

I hope to be offering a few meatier posts in the next few days but until then, enjoy the most inspiring quilts I've seen in awhile.
xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. First attempt at a leather shoe design failed. However, I've learned a few things that make attempt #2 look promising!

Small Craft Starts Monday, September 13th!

This weekend is your last chance to sign up for our latest online handmade class, Small Craft! We've got the schedule and supply list posted on our private blog for those who have already joined us so that you can have all of your materials ready for our first week of fantastic projects! I'm excited about having so many creative mamas, aunties, etc. all in one place and I can imagine we'll all be adding a few new blogs and twitter feeds to our lists.

One of my favorite parts about our online classes is the new friendships that come out of the gathering of people who all 'get it'. It's always refreshing to find other people who understand exactly why you need to stay in and work on your granny square afghan or that you save old t-shirts so you can turn them into t-shirt yarn because...don't you know there are like SO many things you can make out of t-shirt yarn!

I hope you and the little ones in your life can join the rest of us for six weeks of fun and bonding! It is the total cure for that itch to make stuff once the weather turns colder.

See you there!

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. photo by Elsie.

Small Craft Video Sneak Peek

Hi! Elsie and I spent a good part of today filming videos for Small Craft, our upcoming online class. We are each doing 3 projects in video sessions! While we were at it, we filmed a quick little sneak peek video for you...

Small Craft from elsie flannigan on Vimeo.

This is one of Elsie's favorite projects. It's called the 'Gramma Chic Diaper Bag'! I'm pretty sure this is what I was wanting to do with my mustard yellow train case when Ruby was born. I still have it and I think it's going to get a makeover for fall!

Don't you love those adorable handmade dresses on our 'studio' backdrop?!

P.S. Earlybird registration includes a download of all 6 of Elsie's paper doll designs as a fun bonus! There are 5 girls plus a cute dress set that you can print out at home! Register here. (all photos Elsie's.)

xoxo,
Rachel

Home Ec Registration Reopened!

We've been getting so many e-mails these last two days from ladies asking if there was any chance they could still join our class so we've decided to open registration for 72 more hours! We're not offering this online class again so we didn't want to turn anyone away that has had 'learn to sew' on their bucket list.

Class has already started but we've designed it to be a take-at-your-own-pace course so you won't be behind on any projects or have missed deadlines and will have access to the private blog until August 2011. It's been exciting to see so many students' projects in our Flickr Group and to read that many of them have completed their first sewing project ever in our class!

If you're just finding out about our online sewing class for beginners you can check out the full details here. You can register in the left hand side bar of Smile And Wave and will be sent your registration information within 36 hours to access our private blog and join in the fun!

xoxo,
Rachel

Home Ec Interview

A little background info in the sewing department.

Q: How did you learn to sew?

A: I have one specific memory of hand stitching some barbie clothing that I had made to my barbie's body when I was a little girl. Another memory is from sometime during elementary or junior high when I raided my Meemaw's vintage fabric stash to make a simple patchwork doll quilt. I can't remember at what point in between those two memories I first started sewing on a machine but the crafty influence from my mom is undeniably the reason I started. She used to make my dresses for church, Halloween costumes, Christmas presents, and fancy pillows for our home.

My Meemaw gave me a Sears Kenmoore sewing machine as a wedding gift eight years ago and I've since sewn for myself and designed and sold product for Red Velvet Art's shop and online craft classes.

Q: Why do you love to sew?

A: I love being resourceful and using my creativity to personalize my own home. Sewing has been a way for me to make things that I love when I can't find anything in stores (or in my budget) as well as a way to pass on keepsakes in the form of quilts, clothing to my children. It's also provided me with the means to contribute to our family finances while staying at home with our young children. I love the way it ties me to so many generations of women and satisfies that strong creative urge to make things.

Q: What is your favorite thing you've ever made?

A: Easily my first large patchwork quilt. I was inspired by the colors of a vintage crazy quilt my SIL owned and gathered vintage and new fabrics for weeks before spending a good chunk of my Fall break cutting and sewing blocks together. It was the same weekend that we found out I was pregnant with our first child (Sebastian) so I like to attribute my desire to take on such a big project to hormonal changes! I still love the colors in my first big quilt and the uneven rows are charming. (Ruby shown on quilt below.)

Q: What is your favorite technique?

A: I'm really bad with following patterns and technical directions and I'm all over the short cuts when they present themselves! Is that a technique? Taking short cuts? I think it must be. ;)


Q: What part of Home Ec are you most excited about?

A: I think I'm most excited to read the comments from students who have taken their machines out of the closet for the first time in awhile, have overcome their frustration/intimidation/insecurities with making it work for them, and have suddenly realized their reason to live. Or at least realized they can do it, too! Positive feedback from students that have enjoyed previous online classes is always a thrill but I love feeling like I've/we've introduced someone to their new favorite thing.

If you've always wanted to learn how to use that sewing machine you found at a garage sale or could use a few tips on how to get your button holes to turn out like they should, you should join us for Home Ec, an online class designed to teach you how to enter the land of back stitching and squaring up with confidence. You'll get the skills you've always wanted and resources to become quite the innovative crafter/homemaker/business person/best Christmas present maker ever.

Class starts on August 10th. Don't be late!!!

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. If you'd like to hear more about the other lovely teachers you can read Leigh-Ann's interview here and Courtney's here. They are super duper!

HOME EC [Full Details & Registration]

NOTE: Registration is still open, info here.

Read our FAQ here :)

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Home Ec is not just for teenagers anymore, it's for everyone, everywhere!! Leigh-Ann, Courtney and myself have created this online sewing class for beginners and those who want to develop and polish their sewing skills! We've planned 3 Guides, 26 step-by-step Projects with at least 1 new Sewing Technique in each, 3 Live Chats and a tips post on How to Invent & Adapt projects of your own!

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This class is different than others we've taught. The projects are each amazing and useful, but the real purpose of each project is so that you can learn a specific sewing skill, one step at a time, practicing and learning along the way. We've also decided to show previews & describe to you EACH project so that you can see what you learn and how much skill you'll obtain by the end of Home Ec. The value is insane!

Project Previews - Part 1 of 2

(Project Previews Part 2 HERE)

*See the end of this post for a Full Project List

EarlyBird Guides

How to Work your Sewing Machine - Video

A video guided tour of your new Sewing Machine... filling & loading your bobbin, threading your machine, adjusting stitch length, needle alignment, using the presser foot and backstitching. Plus a few tips for straight & even stitch lines and my favorite sewing habits!
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Tools of the Trade - Post

Fabric and craft stores can be overwhelming, especially when you're just learning how to sew. Did I get everything I needed? Did I get anything I needed? As someone who has spent a great deal of their life both shopping and working in those stores, I've learned nearly every product top to bottom. So, for my first post I'll be covering a range of what you may need and why, as well as share a few helpful shopping tips.

Tips & Troubleshooting - Video
I'll be covering basic problems you may run into using your sewing machine and what to check first before taking it in for a check up. In my video, you'll get a few tips on keeping your machine clean and running smoothly and a basic run down on what to expect to pay for a new machine or tune up. Don't be afraid! Your machine is your friend!

Project Previews - Part 1 of 2

Cloth Napkins (2 Ways)

Set a more beautiful table with handmade cloth napkins! You'll learn how to make two styles with basic techniques that will help you master larger projects later in the class. You can feel good about setting your table in style because cloth napkins reduce waste and help save money! Introducing: squaring up fabric, simple hemming, adding Ric-Rac edging. With a focus on mixing and matching patterns.

Drawstring Gift Pouch
Instead of wrapping a gift with paper, create this pretty drawstring gift pouch that acts as a bonus gift and reusable bag! You'll learn how to create a pouch, Also great for business owners packaging products and making a great impression! Introducing: making a bag, joining 2 fabrics, drawstring casing, square corners, strong slit.

Reusable Grocery/Book Bag

Finally a grocery bag that can fit lots and be carried over the shoulder for one big trip into the house. This bag isn't just beautiful, but is also machine washable and also great for the environment! Introducing: Making a larger bag, straps, strong x joints.

Round Bunting
Learn how to create fabric circles and put together a new take on classic bunting. Ideal for a nursery, shower gift, or a playful display in your studio! Easily customizable and simple enough to finish in an afternoon. Introducing: Creating fabric circles and machine applique.
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Supplies Roll-Up
The perfect caddy for your supplies, your boyfriends wrenches, your kids markers or your sharpie collection! Made with an oilcloth or vinyl exterior and an adjustable strap, this roll-up is durable, flexible and just what everyone needs! Introducing: creating sections, working with thicker material (and needle), installing an adjustable strap
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Ironing Board Cover
Replace your dingy old ironing board cover with a shiny new one, and make everyone's least favorite chore a little bit more fun. Introducing: using old cover to create a pattern for the new, edge-finishing options, elasticizing an edge, calculating fabric required.
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Curtains (2 Ways)

Curtains can be extremely expensive but not when you make them yourself! Choose grommets or a bunched 'ruffle' top and sew window treatments to suit every room in your home! Introducing: lining up a pattern, double hemming, spacing & installing large grommets.

Quilted Pot Holder

Pot holders are a dying breed... no more cork ones in this house, I want cute fabric ones protecting my pretty table :) Work with batting to create a layer of insulation, and quilting to keep the potholder thin and flat. Introducing: batting, closing in a double sided square, blanket stitch.

Reversible Bib

Bibs don't have to be tacky. Learn to make your own with fabric you have on hand. You'll learn straight line quilting and how to work with double-fold bias tape. Introducing: quilting straight lines, adding bias tape, drafting from a pattern.

Hemming Jeans At Home
We can't all have an industrial "jean machine" in our homes (though I'm definitely hoping I someday will!), but it's still possible to end up with a nice looking hem when you're either pressed for time or pinching pennies. You'll pick up techniques for shortening your favorite denim using both hand and machine sewing. Introducing: determining correct length, working with heavy materials, determining your machine's limits.
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Zippered Pencil Case
Gather all your cute pencils and markers because as soon as you finish this project, you're going to want to use it! Sewing a zipper can feel so intimidating but it's actually pretty simple, don't be afraid! Introducing: installing a zipper, lining a pouch.
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Resizing a Shirt or Dress

Don't throw out your grandma's vintage mumu! With a few basic tricks, you can resize vintage clothing to fit your body type. Introducing: hemming, taking in at the sides, learning your measurements and silhouettes that are most flattering.

Jersey Wrap Skirt (Forgiving Raw-Edge)

This super-basic skirt, which you will draft from your own measurements (using math--gasp!), is both forgiving to your figure and to your skill. Lots of finishing techniques are not only difficult, they're time consuming. By leaving the edges raw, we leave time for more important things, like creating the perfect fit. And looking totally cute in your new skirt because, hey look at that, you're already done making it! Introducing: drafting a pattern from measurements, properties of stretch fabric, getting comfortable with clothing construction.

Plushie Toy
Babies grow out of their adorable clothes so quickly but you can give them new life in the form of their favorite new plushie! Using a provided pattern and easy directions you can make these gender neutral creatures for your favorite little one. Introducing: working with jersey cotton, customizing a pattern.
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PLEASE NOTE: This is only the first half of our projects! See Part 2 project previews HERE.

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This is a 5.5 week online class open to students worldwide, developed and taught by Leigh-Ann Keffer, Rachel Denbow and Courtney Tucker. The private blog will be up for 1 full year so that you can check back and take the projects at your own pace. There are no project deadlines.

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Class Home Ec starts on August 10th

(with Earlybird Guides in Early August)

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Class fee is $60us

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Registration

Home Ec Registration is in Top LEFT SIDEBAR OF THIS BLOG (paypal "buy now" button).

Sign-Up Information

- When you sign-up for Home Ec, you will receive login information to the private blog within 36 hours (plus an invitation to the Student Lounge 1st sent on Tues, July 20).

- Please fill in the Name & Email address box (above) so that we can send your login to the correct address :)

- Class fee is meant for one student and is non-refundable after you've received your private class login.

Connections

- Your teachers are here to help you! We will answer all the questions you leave in the comments of our projects and we look forward to seeing what you make and supporting you along the way.

- We have planned 3 chats where you can type-chat live... getting to know us (and each other), asking questions, and receiving sewing advice. These chats take place in our private blog.

- Home Ec Class includes access to a private social group for Home Ec students only. This is like a 'student lounge' where you can make friends, compare projects, support each other and post photos. (Back in Indie Business, this was a really fun feature!!)

Details

- This class is not a kit. You will receive supply lists in July (use thrifted fabric to massively reduce fabric costs... start collecting vintage pillowcases & few flat sheets, they work great!!).

- A sewing machine is needed for this class. (If you're in the market for new one, LA recommends a "Singer Advance"... well made, nice features, affordable in comparison, easy to use and found at stores like Walmart, Target and Joanne's).

- 3 Guides will be posted in early August before class officially begins (on Aug.10), but they can be viewed at any time throughout the course (if you don't login in ahead of time).

Teachers

Leigh-Ann: Sewing since 1993, Self Taught, Hobby Sew-er.

Rachel: Sewing for 8+ years, Quilter, Seamstress and Innovator.

Courtney: Sewing for 7+ years, Quilter and Professionally Trained Seamstress.

Full Project List

[ Teacher Legend: Leigh-Ann | Rachel | Courtney | Team ]

EarlyBird Guides

Video: How to Work Your Sewing Machine

Post: Tools of the Trade

Video: Tips & Troubleshooting

PART 1

Cloth Napkins (2 ways)

Gift Pouch

Reusable Grocery/Book Bag

Round Bunting

Supplies Roll-Up

Ironing Board Cover

Curtains (2 ways)

Quilted Pot Holder

C H A T

Reversible Bib

Hemming Jeans

Pencil Case

Resizing a Skirt or Dress

Jersey Wrap Skirt

Plushie Toy

PART 2

Cushion/Pillow Case with Piping

Ruffled Duvet Cover

Fabric Storage Cubby

Padded Laptop Case

C H A T

Full Apron

Leather & Canvas Purse

Mod Table Runner

Drafting/Creating a Pattern

Shoe Organizer

Messenger Bag

How to Read a Commercial Pattern

Flying Geese Quilt

How to Invent & Adapt Projects

Last C H A T

A Few Quotes from our Sewing Friends...

"Sewing has made me a happy happy girl. I highly recommend learning how to use your machine - you won't regret it - and will find yourself spending less and less time at the mall, and more time online figuring out how to make your own version of some of your favorite $300 dollar dresses! Plus, having a reason to browse fabric shops. That's my favorite part."
- Jill of Lune

"Sewing sort of fell into my lap about 18 months ago, and I'm so amazed at all it's brought me: a wonderful group of new friends, satisfaction in creating something cute & sassy, and most recently being able to quit my day-job to sew full-time. Playing with fabric and creating cute gifts is the best!"
- Maggie of Gussy

"I love to sew accessories for my home, clothes and just general repair. It can be very relaxing and a great stress reliever.

I sewed most of my childrens clothes, blankets and some toys when they were young and it was so rewarding; seeing them wear and play with things I'd made was incredible."
- Sharon

Questions

If you have any questions, please e-mail Leigh-Ann (FreckledNest@gmail.com) with "Home Ec" in the subject line.

xoxo, Rachel, Leigh-Ann and Courtney

In The Studio

I think I've managed to finish two projects a day with one running project taking four plus days for the last week! I never thought I'd say this but this woman needs a break from the studio. As much work as it's been, I've really enjoyed having a productive distraction.

I got a text from Brett Monday night saying he was going to call me soon so I got the kids ready for bed and read three extra stories until the phone finally rang. We had terrible service so I was distracted when Sebastian started doing somersaults on his bed to make Ruby laugh. She would giggle and he'd do it again and then yell loudly, "Look what I did!" I was mid-sentence when he flipped off his bed, kicked his fan and chair, and hit the floor. It was quiet and I think I probably said something I shouldn't have and told Brett I had to go. He seemed stunned but then I saw a little blood on his hand and he told me his nose hurt. It turned out to only be a little cut and he was no worse for wear but I'm going to make sure that next time I get to talk to Brett, there aren't any somersaults involved.

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. I think it's about time for some vintage love on this blog. Expect a post soon.

HOME EC...Coming soon!!

Are you ready for your favorite new e-course?

This Thursday Leigh-Ann Keffer, Courtney Tucker, and myself will be introducing HOME EC, our Online Sewing Class for Beginners!!! If you've always wanted to learn how to make your own stuff, this class is your chance to gain the skill set you need to do it. Learning how to sew can impact your budget, business, home, wardrobe, family and life. Not to mention it gives you major street cred. Well, maybe online 'street' cred! Ha!

We're so excited to show you how this course can take you where you want to go with your sewing machine (plus a peek at EACH of our projects!!!), so check back here this Thursday for full details and registration info!

xoxo,
Rachel

Summer Goals

* Bake a loaf of bread.
I realize some of you probably have this as part of your weekly routine but I've never done this myself successfully. (any tips or recipes can be left in the comment section!)

* Visit both the St. Louis and Springfield zoos.
We're taking Sebastian to the St. Louis zoo on his birthday but I've got a whole month to fill with activities so we don't notice how much we miss Brett while he's at ROTC camp.

* Declutter each room.
We're at the point where we need to implement the One In, One Out rule. I've already gotten rid of two of my least favorite wooden chairs (although our cool neighbor adopted them) and seem to always have at least two bags ready for Goodwill in our car trunk.

* Throw a special party.
I'm not the best at parties but I've always wanted to be. I'm going to try to put a lot of thought and energy into the details of Sebastian's fourth birthday party without making myself crazy. And maybe throw another kind of party if such an occasion calls for it.

* Successfully teach my son a morning routine.
We're starting preschool in the Fall so we're all going to have to get used to getting up early and looking presentable before 9:00 a.m. (or sometimes 10:00)! We've started a sticker chart that has pictures of each thing he has to do before he's free to do whatever he wants.

* Make friends with Jillian Michaels again.
I lost about six pounds in a month doing her work out and then lost ALL motivation as soon as I got back from Florida. Hello three pounds! It's time to make it a priority again.

* Take the kids to the local pools and parks.
Even when it's so humid and hot that we're all likely to be cranky before we get there.

* Make 11:00p.m. lights out time.
No exceptions.

* Obtain headboards for both beds in our home. Finish Sebastian's quilt and make pretty pillows to finish ours.
Because it's been eight years now and I think it's about time.

What's on your list?

xoxo,
Rachel

The Part Where I Start Yet Another Project

This is the start of organizing my blocks for Sebastian's new quilt. He's getting a full size bed for his birthday so I've got a little over a month to get this finished. I took color and pattern inspiration from an image I found online of the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills. Brett watched the kids all afternoon so I could get started on this monster. He deserves an afternoon out on the open road with his Vespa, don't you think?

I'll share progress as I go. It won't fit in my studio unless I move our dining room table into the corner so working in big chunks of time is rather important if we want to be able to make it through to use the bathroom. I have most of my blocks stitched together and ironed flat so the next step is choosing what kind of pattern I want them in and pinning rows and columns. This makes project #6 in the works!

What did you do this weekend?
xoxo,
Rachel