Sewing

I've always loved to sew but during my years in graduate school, I had to put this hobby on hold for a while. Since being out of school (and having a cute girl to sew for), I've begun sewing again and have really enjoyed revisiting this hobby. I have lots of interests but I seem to always come back to sewing. There is just something about working with my hands that I love.

In the past year I was introduced to a fabulous children's pattern designer--Oliver + S. These patterns are modern, incredibly well designed, unique, and easy to follow. I have 4 of her patterns so far. The first pattern I tried was the School Days Jacket out of a navy wool melton with a red polka-dot cotton lining. I was a little nervous when I first started, thinking it was a bit of an ambitious project. However, because her patterns are so well designed and easy to follow, it only took a few evenings and looks fabulous.

The pictures are a bit dark but I love how it turned out. It will fit this year and next (the arms are a smidge long so perfect for growing room). I may have enough left-over material to make another one for the baby next winter.

The next pattern I tried was the Birthday Party Dress. It also was super easy to follow and came together in a few evenings. I actually made it to match a sweater I knitted for Christmas. Well, that is to say, I started knitting the sweater last April and finished over the Christmas holidays....The dress is made of 100% cotton fabric by Tula Pink (Fluterby Collection). I'm planning on making a dress for the baby out of this fabric too.

The best part is that Annie LOVES her dress and sweater. Whenever she wears it, she tells everyone, "my mommy made my dress". I know, it's vain but it makes me feel good that she's proud of what her mom can do.

My next project is smocking an easter dress for her. I luckily have a very talented friend that has helped me out on this one. It's actually alot easier than I thought it would be. I'm almost done the smocking and then I will start sewing the dress. If all goes well, I can start on a blessing gown for the baby. I'll be sure to post photos once I'm done with both of those.

So, blogging friends of mine: Do any of you sew? What sewing sites do you use? I know there are a bunch of great sewing blogs out there but what are your favorites? Please share!