Time to Enter: Passion for Fashion Challenge 2009

The American Sewing Expo, in Novi, MI, is now accepting applications for the 2009 Passion for Fashion Challenge! Head on over to their site and print out the entry form for the Design and Sewing Competition. Entry garments must be postmarked by July 1, 2009. I entered my skirt, had a blast last year and won 2nd place! I'm not sure yet if I'll do it this year, September 25 and 26, 2009, but if you'd like to enter it is only $25.00.
Prizes will include but are not limited to:
First-An exciting trip to New York with the ASE tour and a Baby Lock Aspire Sewing Machine
Second-Baby Lock Imagine Wave Serger
Third-Baby Lock Decorator's Choice Sewing Machine
Good Luck!

Swap-O-Rama-Rama in Plymouth, Michigan

Handmade Detroitis sponsoring a Swap-O-Rama-Rama in Plymouth at the Green Street Fair this weekend, May 1 to 3,2009. I'll be in the tent offering help to aspiring designers Sunday morning. It sounds like a load of fun, so stop by, bring some unwanted clothing and bring home something new!

Issues with Commercial Patterns

I just made some robes from this pattern. For a church ceremony.

Simplicity 4213


I only made view 1, and it had to be finished quickly so I didn't take pictures.

But here is the issue:


The bottom of the sleeve is drafted to be too small to fit the fold back hem. It is a simple fix, I extended the line so that the hem now will fold back easily.

The problem with this is that someone who can't see that this fix needs to be made will automatically assume that the problem is them and that they can't sew. The pattern overall was great, but this affects the final product. I understand how something like this could happen, whenever I need to make alterations to a pattern or something I'm working on, I have to step away so I can think about it. The pattern companies need to be more careful. This was a simple mistake, but has the potential to cause great frustrations. And frustrated sew*ers stop trying!

A good source for pattern reviews is here. I'm on it too.

The Value in Quilting

Whether you are just starting to sew or you are a pro, don't under estimate the value in quilting. Quilting is a good way to get to know your sewing machine*, become comfortable sewing without pins and become a faster sewing machine operator.

I took a quilting class many years ago and we used the Make a Quilt in a Day : Log Cabin Pattern book. This is how I quilt. First I cut 2 1/2" strips with my Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat. Then I do minor planning and just happily sew away!

An added bonus is choosing beautiful Designer Quilting Fabricsand other Quilting Fabric at Joann.com And you don't have to have much of each to make a small lap quilt 45" X 60"! Just make sure one style has enough to do the back. I'm always surprised at how wonderful they turn out, even if I'm not sure of my fabric choices.

I've been making some quilt tops for the Prayer Blanket Ministry. Its my way of giving back. One a month is the current goal. Another person is happy to finish them so it works out for both of us!

December 2008:

January 2009:

February 2009:

March 2009:

Sewing Lessons in Memphis, MI

So, I'm thinking about offering sewing lessons or tutoring in St Clair or Northern Macomb county. I'd have to rent or buy space somewhere.

I'd maybe do a Saturday class or after school class or daytime class for Homeschoolers. My question to YOU is how many would be interested or willing to drive to 48041 zip?

I could include my fabric and pattern stash in the cost of the class, I could do beginner to advanced. I could become an instructor for Islander Sewing Systems. We could make your design or use a pattern.

I'm still in the early stages of thought on this, I have been sewing with my cousin, a beginner, and had a great time.

If you read this and think it is something you would do, please, please comment or write to me at diane[@]thoughtsfromaseamstress.com

Make an Extra Large Thread Rack

I'm in the process of moving my sewing work space from the basement to the attic. Ahhhh, sunlight. It has been down in the basement way too long. It will be crowded up here, but worth it.

I need another thread rack, so I'm making it again.

I get a piece of 2' X 4' peg board and 1/4" by 48" dowels and Wood Glue from a hardware store.

I used a dremel to cut the dowels into 5 1/4" pieces and proceed to glue them in, slightly slanted upwards.





I didn't put the dowels as close as I could have, you will have to experiment based on the amount of room you have available.

Hung up....


I have 4 total, I'll take a pic of the work space when its all up here.

CraftStylish Sewing Room Contest

All you have to do, to win $7000.00 in prizes, is to use their room generator and "design" your "Ultimate Sewing room". There are over 1000 entries now so the judges who will be choosing the final 10 will have quite a challenge. The winner will be chosen by us peeps!

The Contest. Don't forget to register or log in before you start!

Check out my "Ultimate Sewing Room!