Cardigan to Purse

This is a special order to make a purse from a cardigan.  The sweater is 100% wool but refused to felt, so I inserted a sturdy lining to keep it from sagging.  There were alot of holes that needed mending.

I replaced all the buttons with more substantial metal ones.  I used everything except the sleeves.

The finished purse has a large outside pocket created by the V neck (see left, below).  It also has a large secret pocket reached by unbuttoning the front (see right, below).  The strap is webbing with a strip of the lining fabric sewn on top.

For step by step instructions on how to make similar purses from sweaters, see my shop http://catsongstitchery.etsy.com/

Book Review: Pretty Little Presents

It is that time of year again.  If you haven't started sewing gifts, check this book out.  Pretty Little Presents published by Lark Books contains 29 gifts suitable for weddings, babies, hostess, housewarming, but of course would be good for the holidays too!

I sewed these baskets and found the directions to be easy to follow with beautiful pictures.

These cute ladies were shown strung from a ribbon.  Fun, quick and easy!

Fantasy Fabric

I bought this fabric panel from Quilting Adventures because I love the vibrant colors and intricate design.  It is Oceanica by Julie Paschkis for In The Beginning Fabrics.  Now, what do I do with it?

I also wanted to mention http://sewcalgal.blogspot.com/ is having a Holiday Quilt Show Contest soon-  starting Nov.14th.  I started my quilt today! 

Fun with Fabric (and a Baby)

I ran across this site where the mom constructs elaborate scenes around her napping baby.  They are adorable!  You have to see them to understand- http://milasdaydreams.blogspot.com/ 

A Really Neat Fundraiser

A few years ago, my kids' school did a funraiser that involved putting their artwork on a variety of items.  Mugs, pillow cases, boxes etc. were all choices as well as fabric squares.  I ordered the fabric and finally got around to finishing them.  Part of the reason it took me so long is I was waiting for the school to do it again, so I would have more squares to work with!

Well, it became apparent that this was it.  So I asked the kids to pick out fabric from my stash that they would like me to use to frame their art.  I sewed them separately in case they wanted to hang it in their rooms.  I pieced the borders and then sewed, right sides together, around the edges.  No interior stitching so I can actually stuff each one and make them pillows later on, if they want to.

Cool Sewing Machine Photo

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicknormal/5061601932/  Found this picture, its on flickr of a store front full of old sewing machines in Boston.  Wish I could see it in person!

Pattern Review: Simplicity 3796

This is going to be my new go-to skirt for fall.  I have sewn this pattern before (capri pants) and love its easy style.  The details add alot, but I tend to skip some of them for speedy construction.  To make the waist more comfortable, I add elastic to the drawstring so it will hug me better.  I can see myself wearing this from early fall with sandles, all the way through winter with boots.

What's New At Cat Song Stitchery- Cat and Mouse Sewing Pattern-pdf

Meet Cat and Mouse, they are great friends and love hanging out in unexpected places around your house.  In fact, once I get started, it is hard to stop sewing them!

These can be stuffed with catnip for a real cat treat.  My kids love playing with them too!

Free shipping- I email the instructions and pattern straight to you!  Check it out http://catsongstitchery.etsy.com/