Participating

A few weekends ago as I ran out of supplies to make Aiden's Easter basket goodies I decided to try out a pattern that had been lurking in my stash for a long time. Since Rae is hosting the Spring Top Week competition again this year it seemed like a logical choice to jump from hand embroidering fish to sewing a halter top.


I bought this pattern then hurried to buy the fabric to make it, then hurried home. Two years later a top is made! I'm not sure why it took so long because this is one of the easiest tops (aside from the BBW top, of course) to whip up. Amy's patterns are very easy to follow. She gives very detailed direction each step of the way, I especially liked the way she suggests to sew in the zipper. I'm not generally a huge fan of putting zippers in garments but this was no problem.

The fabric I used is the same that I bought two years ago. Now my wardrobe consists, almost exclusively, of black or brown or very muted green and blue stuff. This wild Hawaiian style print is way outside of my comfort zone but I think it works well for this top. I'm trying to take a page out of my friend Victoria's book by choosing interesting patterns and new styles. What do you think, Vic? :)
The only things I may change the next time I make this top would be to make longer ties and fit the bodice a little better. Overall, though, I think I'll get quite a bit of wear out of this one.


Happy Sewing!
~Megan

First Sewitng Project

My son Marcus is always wanting to help me with my projects. I love that he shows interest in these things. I get a big kick out of how he can be all about wrestling and football with his friends one minute and the next, he is asking my if he can help me sew.

This coloring book was his first official "all by himself" sewing project, and it was an extra special one. My little brother Sam, passed away January 1st 2009. Marcus and Sam were the best of friends, they spent everyday together. Sam was a great playmate for Marcus growing up, and as Marcus got older, he was a loyal friend to Sam. One of the hardest parts about losing Sam, was knowing that my daughter Maria would not have the same memories or understanding of what an extraordinary person Sam was. I try to make something to celebrate his life and spirit each holiday for my children and the cousins in our family. This Easter we made this simple coloring book. Sam's favorite place to visit was Disney World. If I am correct, had been there 17 or 18 times in 15 years. I used this tutorial to convert some of Sam's Disney photos into coloring book pages.

I cut brown paper bags to make the cover. Marcus sewed right down the center of the pages attaching them to the cover.

This was a great first project for Marcus and great therapy for me.

My brother Sam touched the hearts of everyone he met. My mom has a blog where she shares our many memories of Sam. Although his life was short, he made everyday so special and left us with many beautiful memories.

Happy Remembering

Rhiannon