tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16160369830977906832012-02-08T02:15:17.188-05:00A blog about sewing, crafting and selling on Etsy.Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.comBlogger1781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-28149155967887229532011-04-12T21:46:00.001-04:002011-04-12T21:46:16.306-04:00

A friend of mine discovered a really cute Easter wreath on a do-it-yourself craft blog, and since we have a reputation for making wreaths together, she thought it would be a fun project for us to whip together for our front doors.  Making the wreath involves wrapping many plastic Easter eggs with different pastel colored yarns, and with much help from the glue gun, you attach the yarns to the

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-4662596536567945922011-04-04T20:21:00.001-04:002011-04-04T20:27:46.398-04:00

I can hear your applause!  Yay!  My table runner is now a finished project! What I thought was a simple project that finishable in an evening, took me over a week.  I suppose that’s not terrible; I technically could have never finished it.   (Lately I’ve only been finishing embroidered onesies, so I’m exceptional proud of myself for sewing something different.)  This finished project was

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-21037040612108637462011-03-28T22:14:00.001-04:002011-03-28T22:16:27.196-04:00

Would you believe it?  I went to a local quilt show this past Saturday, came home, and found my rotary cutter!  It was right beside my quarter inch foot.  Of all the places for it to be, right? Luckily for the three of us (Jill, RC and the 1/4”), I picked up a table runner kit, complete with pattern and fabric, at one of the vendor booths that very morning.  It seemed the perfect, quick project

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-78686253086297163052011-03-21T21:48:00.001-04:002011-03-21T21:48:09.136-04:00

Over the weekend, MrBeans accompanied me to my local sewing machine shop while I picked up some supplies.  Digging around for gift ideas, he asked me if there’s anything I might like.  Without hesitating, and possibly subliminally prompted by the one in front of me, I said, “A serger, of course!”   Of course I want a serger; what sewista is complete without one?  Though, I don’t need one.  But

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-85225019884272626302011-03-14T19:20:00.001-04:002011-03-14T19:20:46.668-04:00

Lately, I’ve been overrun by onesie orders.  These are all the ones I’ve made in the past week and a half.  Not much time for other projects!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-90885309045259166802011-03-12T13:40:00.001-05:002011-03-12T13:44:33.223-05:00

It’s been a while, and I can’t promise I’m back.  I suppose I’ve been busy with work during the days.  (Half of my department went out on maternity leave over the holidays, leaving my other coworker and me swamped!)  And at nights, I snuggle under layers of quilts, too nervous to get up even for some hot chocolate for fear of my toes getting cold.  But with a bit of spring finally warming up

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-41919986961334342732011-02-01T21:43:00.001-05:002011-02-01T21:43:22.566-05:00

What do you get when you mix me, the margarita loving beach girl, with too much snow?  A Snowy Margarita!  Okay, that was just ridiculous, but I got your attention, right?  This lovely idea was actually from the brilliant mind of MrBeans.  Like I’m going to say no to the idea of pouring margarita mix over snow.  It’s an adult snow cone! 

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-41484119357487968692011-01-29T21:18:00.001-05:002011-01-29T21:18:27.192-05:00

Trying to fight off the winter doldrums, it seems I’ve been spending too much time huddled in front of the stove and not enough by the warmth of my sewing machine light.  Apparently, it’s not a very warm light.  But prompted by the sale of a few Bean’s Clutches in my Etsy shop, I decided I better move away from the stove and make more before I’m all sold out.  So I turned up the heat (my

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-14783448717075629192011-01-15T15:41:00.001-05:002011-01-15T15:41:45.468-05:00

Occasionally, etsians ordering a custom embroidered baby equation onesie ask, “Can I get a different color for the mom’s name?  The baby is a boy.”  On a “standard” baby equation onesie, dad’s name is embroidered in blue, mom’s name is in pink and “baby” is in green.  The intuitive shades make the onesie cute, colorful and whimsical; perfect for a 0 to 3 month old. But for those thanking

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-52743854442982939522011-01-02T22:33:00.001-05:002011-01-02T22:33:45.068-05:00

Today, being the last day of my Christmas vacation/winter break, I sewed as much as possible to make up for all the sewing I didn’t do last month.  I should have been making blocks for this quilt, but instead, I started a new one.  Inspired by a Jelly Roll of Sugar Pop, I used my quilt software and designed the slightly abstract quilt shown above.  I didn’t really want to make an abstract

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-49398045444687817272010-12-31T00:43:00.001-05:002010-12-31T00:43:04.896-05:00

It’s been too busy of a month for much crafting and sewing. I do have this onesie I finished for a friend’s first birthday:   and I made up a fun Stocking Stuffer Christmas game in which I made up the rules and 10 stockings to stuff.  Unfortunately for this blog, I was too flustered to get them done in time for Christmas to take any pictures.  Today, finally getting a day off, I got back into

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-44315597328322521722010-12-05T08:54:00.001-05:002010-12-05T08:55:54.286-05:00

Happy December!  I’m almost ready to start wrapping up my Christmas shopping and am looking forward to decorating the house! (When I’ll find time to do both is another question.)  I haven’t made any sales on my Etsy site for 2 months! and have been just as lazy about blogging my craft and sewing projects!  It’s fun to have a break! Yesterday, I set up a table at a local Fire Department’s

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-22054587389851166422010-11-18T22:57:00.001-05:002010-11-22T20:33:37.091-05:00

  It’s time for a celebration!  I finally finished my Year-at-a-Glance quilt tonight!  That’s right, finished!   The fabric and pattern were a gift for my birthday back in the summer of 2009.  (Remember this post?  or this post?)  Tonight, I finally tacked down the last two feet of binding. I rarely ever finish anything this big, and  I had to pinch myself to relinquish my disbelief.  Now, I

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-49888475275959883022010-11-15T21:54:00.001-05:002010-11-15T21:54:09.803-05:00

    Everything is on hiatus until I finish this quilt top!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-16470704344744267572010-11-14T22:33:00.001-05:002010-11-14T22:33:54.322-05:00

I got a new toy, I mean, tool last week and finally took it out of the packaging for a test drive.  It’s my very own Dritz Pliers!  You know, for adding snaps to all my craft projects, in a snap, of course!   Many thanks goes to Annie Rose’s online tutorial from Cowgirl Snaps for helping me avoid any frustration that these pliers would have encumbered upon me.  After carefully reading, and

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-89955757049110301262010-11-08T22:34:00.001-05:002010-11-08T22:34:57.784-05:00

Some nights, I look forward to piddling away at my sewing machine, working on my own little projects that never seem to get finished.  Other nights, orders pile up and my embroidery machine beckons.  Was it merely coincidence, that as I prepared myself to make two onesies this evening, I opened up my email and found not one, but two adorable babies staring back at me wearing the cutest little

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-80485314705295256102010-11-07T19:11:00.001-05:002010-11-07T19:13:06.091-05:00

Yesterday, I enjoyed another journey to the Sugarloaf Craft Festival in Oaks, PA joined by MrBeans.  For those of you faithful Rotary Cutter followers, you may recall my post on last year’s finds.  This year, I remained focused on holiday gift giving, and didn’t actually buy anything for myself.  (Shocker!)  …Except this little guy: MrBeans and I met in Southwestern Virginia.  While walking

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-73857428497013216782010-11-06T19:27:00.000-04:002010-11-06T19:41:57.667-04:00

I would be remiss if I never mentioned my favorite fabric shop on my quilty/crafty blog.  My one weekly “spam” email that I always look forward to reading comes not only with the latest and greatest must have fabrics and kits, but also with style, grace, and at least one project that immediately sends me daydreaming of me at my sewing machine, far far away from the computer holding the email,

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-13752764144797185812010-11-04T23:07:00.001-04:002010-11-04T23:07:55.454-04:00

My sewing machine whirled and hummed away tonight; so, I’m back to blogland with the results, just as I had promised myself! I can’t believe I finally finished this quilt top!  (All I had left was to cut out and sew on the outer boarder…I’m 99% positive the center of it has been done for a year.)  I think I’m going to call it my Wonderland Quilt because of the bright colors and varied floral

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-33096611856566946932010-11-03T22:10:00.001-04:002010-11-03T22:10:04.836-04:00

So, I’ve been a little MIA recently.  My sew machine went in for a tune-up and production slowed to a near halt.  That was two weeks ago and I still haven’t taken it for a test drive.  I did dress up as a bridesmaid for Halloween and made my first wedding cake.  (How’s that for crafty?!?)  Having embarked upon the 11th month of 2010, I voted yesterday.  Tomorrow, I think I’ll get back to sewing

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-66156707304600197602010-10-17T21:18:00.001-04:002010-10-17T21:18:23.310-04:00

I love apples and certainly do enjoy my apple a day!  And since I’m unable to sew, how about a trip up to Solebury Orchards in New Hope, PA?! MrBeans tricked me…somewhat.  He invited me to join him on a trip up to the Orchards.  I’m dreaming of apple picking; he’s dreaming of 37 gallons of cider.  Seriously. His current obsession is home brewing, and brewing hard cider is one of the easiest

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-42090725587072073652010-10-16T19:07:00.001-04:002010-10-16T19:07:39.419-04:00

While sewing last week, the “check engine light” on my sewing machine turned on.  And yes, it’s just as annoying as when it turns on in the car.  Sure, you can keep sewing…or your can bring it into the dealership and expect to hand over your wallet when you want it back.  Well, being that I probably care more about my sewing machine than my car, I sadly dropped it off at my local sewing

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-14960360335307237132010-10-14T22:23:00.001-04:002010-10-14T22:23:42.101-04:00

   I made a foolish decision. I purchased a 17” laptop.  This was foolish, because almost no where, on God’s green earth, can one find a laptop bag big enough to fit such a monstrosity of a computer.  At the time, I had no clue I would run into such a debacle.  I, blinded by the large screen and number pad, possessed not a clue into the lack of portability that would ensue when purchasing these

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-7066241068150671132010-10-04T22:13:00.001-04:002010-10-04T22:13:30.048-04:00

  This has to be the most fun fabric wreath to make!  Super easy, inexpensive, quick, stress relieving, and turns out handsomely…what more could you want in a craft project?! A friend of mine found this project on the blog, The DIY Show Off, and after trying it herself, insisted that I make one.  What a great friend!  I love admiring how beautifully this wreath came out and dreaming of what

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-26194258124347430812010-09-26T18:06:00.001-04:002010-09-26T18:06:54.574-04:00

  I broke down and finally unraveled a collection of brown fat quarters I bought in Lancaster a few years ago.    I needed a few of these fabrics to become backgrounds for name garland: my genius idea to decorate an empty window frame hanging in my living room.  MrBeans and I hung the old window pane over our couch a few weeks ago.  He really likes the reflection it produces, but it was a

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-7682982027221866332010-09-25T20:19:00.001-04:002010-09-25T20:19:10.717-04:00

With summer over, Indian Summer wanes on, and I spent most of September fully well knowing where my rotary cutter has been: in the drawer unused.  Today, I’m back faithful bleaders!  (Short for “blog readers.”  I’m halfway through Julie & Julia and couldn’t resist the reference.)  I just finished another project from One-Yard Wonders and it’s already been put to good use! My kitchen

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-34578107666749023362010-09-13T23:11:00.001-04:002010-09-13T23:13:37.765-04:00

  Some Mondays live up to their name, and it’s possible that today, I did have “a case of the Mondays.”  To cheer me up, this evening I made sure to take the opportunity to do a little sewing.  I made three onesies this evening, and one of them has a springtime color theme.  I honestly prefer my standard blue/pink/green color scheme; however, I was genuinely happy with the way this one turned

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-17096709445038583762010-09-12T16:56:00.001-04:002010-09-12T16:57:24.765-04:00

  A Saturday away from my sewing room, good things happen to those who stop waiting and just got for it.  Yesterday, instead of driving past Peace Valley Lavender Farm, I finally stopped there to check it out.   I’m so glad, because I did something new and fun! At the farm, a quintessential Pennsylvania barn backs a hill of lavender.  The aroma of lavender pulls you into a little shop in the

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-61034139817628894202010-09-06T20:37:00.001-04:002010-09-06T20:37:53.635-04:00

  For many, the end of the Labor Day weekend means back to school.  For me, it just means I have to go to work four days this week instead of five.  (It also means College Football starts!  Yay!)  Though, sometimes work isn’t in an office, but waiting for me online…   After spending the weekend camping in the mountains, I came home and made this onesie.  It’s a surprise from Jeff and Joni to

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-33718092368079814192010-09-02T21:56:00.001-04:002010-09-02T21:56:40.966-04:00

  I just finished up a couple onesies before the holiday weekend!  I hope you have a great weekend! I especially love this one:

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-63362477693372510422010-09-01T22:28:00.001-04:002010-09-01T22:28:38.922-04:00

Wondering what to do with all those garden tomatoes crowding up your countertop?  Well, me too… An experiment for the oven, tonight I made “Tomato Cobbler” from Mark Bitman’s How to Cook Everything Vegetarian.    And you and I both thought cobbler was for fruit and berries, right?  Never afraid to veer from the black and white print, I added some fresh basil from my garden to spice up

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-25120005840796261832010-08-30T21:00:00.001-04:002010-08-30T21:02:30.491-04:00

  Last weekend, I was enthusiastically ready to tackle some new sewing projects and some much needed shop updates.  With the best of intentions, I spent Saturday morning painting my front porch.  On Sunday, I shopped for carpet and moved furniture.    Away from my sewing machine all weekend, I enjoyed my finally finished front porch renovation! It started with a leak in the roof…which turned

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-86630043275294330692010-08-23T21:16:00.001-04:002010-08-23T21:16:38.399-04:00

It’s been a busy, yet productive evening!  I finished up four Bean’s Clutches which have been cut and ready for production for at least two months.  Now it’s time to get them into my shop before I’m off to dreamland!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-61179062573324997502010-08-22T21:14:00.001-04:002010-08-22T21:14:00.178-04:00

  Barcelona, Spain Because I finally finished my Amy Butler Barcelona Skirt!  Naturally, I should take to the streets of Barcelona, and show those Spaniards the glory of my stitches! Okay, so I’m a little overly excited that I actually finished this project.  My next, not to mention first, trip to Barcelona is not in the forecast-able future, so I’ll just have to show off this sweet summer

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-36141537510030008532010-08-17T22:49:00.001-04:002010-08-17T22:49:51.727-04:00

How can too much of a thing be bad, especially when it come to zippers, right? I’ve finally got a kick start on my Barcelona Skirt!  Yay!  Unfortunately, when I went to put on the zipper, I realized that I purchased one that didn’t match.   Here’s a tip: bring a fabric swatch when you’re picking up the zipper.  So, I sent MrBeans off to correct my blunder. While I was out for the

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-43173852532194159762010-08-15T19:16:00.001-04:002010-08-15T19:16:08.193-04:00

With a Watermelon Margarita! When Martha gets a hold of my favorite drink, you know it’s going to be good! From the June 2010 issue of Everyday Food: In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 3 wide strips of orange zest to a boil over high.  Reduce to a simmer and cook until sugar dissolves; three minutes.  Let syrup cool in a bowl.  In a blender, puree 2 cups of

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-7471931874164224262010-08-15T16:53:00.001-04:002010-08-15T16:53:00.986-04:00

This afternoon, I monogrammed some pillow cases for a friend who’s giving them as a wedding gift.  The cases, although 100% cotton, had a silky sheen that caused them to slide around in the hoop.  They shifted just enough during the embroidery to puckered more than I like…so I’m a little bummed out right now.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-17236744161842828192010-08-13T19:46:00.001-04:002010-08-13T19:46:51.550-04:00

I really enjoy making custom embroidered onesies.  Of course there’s a lot of excitement for those with the promise of a “me,” and I love to think that mom and dad’s hearts melt a little when they see their names on baby’s chest.  A typical onesie is embroidered in what I like to call “neutral baby colors.”  It’s perfect for a boy or girl; I always envision a baby boy in his little jeans

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-48511703507852689262010-08-11T22:15:00.001-04:002010-08-11T22:20:46.569-04:00

So far, a typical day for me this week has been 10 hours at work, followed by a concert, meeting or rehearsal, then finally retiring home to embroider some custom onesies.  I’m not really complaining…it’s my husband and cats that always seem to think they got the short end of the Jill-stick.  So before anyone notices that I’ve been gone, here’s what I’ve been working on:

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-6783652796017358812010-08-05T20:24:00.001-04:002010-08-05T21:06:02.555-04:00

is the Patron Saint of Architects…or it it beaches?  In either case, he’s the guy for me! I recently spent a week hiding out from my everyday life on the beautiful islands of St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands.  (And yes, I brought my beach bag.)  They are supremely gorgeous.  White sandy beaches, blue-blue water and uber friendly natives - this beach girl’s dreams come true.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-50906989197056274732010-08-02T20:43:00.001-04:002010-08-05T21:06:57.593-04:00

August marks the 1 Year Anniversary of the opening of my shop and my first sale!  It all started with a dream and this little kite bookmark: After bookmarks, I added custom embroidered onesies, camera straps, wine totes, Bean’s Clutches, a set of fabric coasters, Burpies & Bunnies burpcloths, and wine bags to that list of sales.  I’ve almost reached my goal of 100 sales this year, which

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-11193071507026290942010-07-23T18:58:00.001-04:002010-07-23T18:58:49.965-04:00

You’re looking at some award winning cookies!  These delicious little bites of cookie, chocolate and marshmallow took the prize for “Most Creative Cookie” at yesterday’s 2nd Annual Cookie Contest at work!  My prize: two movie passes! I’m very proud of my cookies and their accomplishment, and of course I’ll eat up an chance I get dubbed as “creative.”  Literally, in this case!  Don’t forget to

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-85706186021539263152010-07-21T22:30:00.001-04:002010-07-21T22:30:59.865-04:00

Tomorrow’s the big 2nd Annual Cookie Contest at work, and I spent the evening baking away!   It was a sunny 90 degrees outside today, and probably about an overheated 89 degrees in my kitchen this evening.  Perfect cookie baking weather! Based on my favorite summer time treat, here’s my entry for this year’s contest: Campfire Cookies Ingredients 3/4 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-17629688358853383162010-07-19T22:36:00.001-04:002010-07-19T22:36:39.588-04:00

Ah hah!  You’re back, and I bet you didn’t  believe I would also be here with a finished project tonight, did you?  Okay, actually, I was very doubtful myself…but here it is!! One Prairie Flower Pincushion from Moda’s free online sewing patterns.  The pattern went together very well, as I am always pleasantly surprised when circles and circumferences match.  (As far as I’m concerned,

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-7153073646837170502010-07-18T22:18:00.001-04:002010-07-18T22:18:53.557-04:00

This was a Sunday of firsts!  The first time I used transparent poly thread, the first time I made hexagons and the first time I made prairie points!  Very excited about all three, I’ve been anxiously plowing through my Prairie Flower Pincushion pattern and kit I got on my trip to Olde City Quilts, and by the looks of my stitches, I’ve probably been moving a little too quickly. The

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-9624550526290619332010-07-17T17:34:00.001-04:002010-07-17T17:34:16.435-04:00

I have a small obsession with handmade jewelry, specifically the kind you can purchase on Etsy.  In fact, I have been forced into starting a collection of little boxes from all the unique packaging my jewels come shipped in.  It’s so easy to get carried away with the need to buy more earring and necklaces, as I feel tricked into thinking they’re all just little gifts, perfectly boxed up for me.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-73552533769293508622010-07-15T20:41:00.001-04:002010-07-15T20:41:36.258-04:00

It’s mid-July, and I hope everyone has made it to the beach, or at  least the pool, once this summer!  I personally can’t wait for my next trip to those sandy shores, and to make my trips to the beach a little more crafty, I put a beach twist on Favorite Thing’s Eco Market Tote! Every year for my birthday, my mother-in-law and I go on a little shopping trip.  This year, we ended up smitten

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-34878823185308142602010-07-11T18:08:00.001-04:002010-07-11T18:09:08.807-04:00

Hurray for Summer Camp!  Tomorrow, MrBeans starts  two weeks of instructing future engineers at Lego Robotics Camp!  He loves robotics and insisted that I make him a custom embroidered polo for his first day of camp.  It’s a lot of fun when you can customize almost anything!  Today, he picked up a plain black polo shirt at Kohl’s,  ($10 Kohl’s cash=free polo) and I spent about 30 minutes

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-67888554204430859712010-06-30T22:01:00.001-04:002010-06-30T22:01:52.025-04:00

My favorite month is nearing the end.  June is the best for many reasons.  It’s the beginning of Summer (this beach girl’s favorite season,) birthdays, anniversaries, and it’s flanked by two three day weekends, Memorial Day and July 4th…What’s not to love??  It’s sad to see another June ending.  At least there’s still two more months left of summery weather!   Speaking of summery weather, for

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-14820117043900538882010-06-29T22:57:00.001-04:002010-06-29T22:57:00.977-04:00

I’m in the midst of a couple of crazy weeks!  I’ve actually closed my Etsy shop, because I knew I couldn’t handle any custom orders.  (My sewing machine went to the beach?!?)  But knowing the magic words got me to squeeze in a couple custom onesies this evening.  They’re different color combinations then I’ve done before, and I should have balked at the Mets colors…but I made it anyway. 

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-74352389611128513172010-06-20T20:54:00.001-04:002010-06-20T20:54:01.892-04:00

Why 2 “I heart Grumpa” onesies?? Because Grumpa has twins!  Happy Father’s day to all those dads, grandpas and grumpas out there!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-66714454684179731892010-06-17T21:11:00.001-04:002010-06-17T21:11:44.621-04:00

Hooray!  I’m finished sewing 7 custom embroidered Bean’s Clutches!   Not that they weren’t fun, but I can’t wait to get back to some projects for myself! And here’s a sneak peak from yesterday’s shopping trip:

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-7644276029757104612010-06-15T18:42:00.001-04:002010-06-15T18:42:21.941-04:00

  My current work in progress consists of monogramming Bean’s Clutches for a bridal party.  I’m creating six clutches, plus one for the bride, with single letter monograms.  It’s been relatively fun so far, and I really like the look of the embroidery on oil cloth.  The only problem is finding time to make them!  I’m off to band practice tonight, but maybe I can do a little more when I get home…

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-46910315599769241162010-06-13T21:05:00.001-04:002010-06-13T21:10:12.491-04:00

Today we experienced two torrential downpours, and we’re not sure we’ll make it through the night without another one.  I don’t mind the rain…except when I’m nervous about it taking the power out and my sewing/embroidering machine along with it!  Luckily, the power did not go out, and I finished two custom embroidered onesies.   One of the onesies I created today had a special

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-22314878260047164152010-06-09T22:22:00.001-04:002010-06-09T22:22:30.132-04:00

  It has taken many years, and many bars, restaurants, grocery stores, kitchens and refrigerators to allow my taste buds to make this most educated, highly specified and exceedingly important decision.   Officially, to be noted in blog eternity, my favorite drink is the deliciously lime, never with salt and always on the rocks  Margarita.  My favorite, and no longer very secret version has

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-87423221049985512702010-06-07T20:27:00.002-04:002010-06-07T20:28:57.376-04:00

I just finished making myself a new Bean’s Clutch.  Not because I needed one, but because someone asked me if I could custom embroider monograms on clutches for her bridesmaids.   I hate to say “no” and also don’t like saying “yes” to something I’ve never done, so…I made a trial clutch. First, I made sure I could embroider on oilcloth.   Turns out, not only can I embroider on it, but it pops

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-24584414685183198922010-06-06T15:19:00.002-04:002010-06-07T20:29:37.907-04:00

The 1994 Ford Aerostar sitting in the driveway could no longer tow all that life has to offer.  So, MrBeans and I upgraded to a fully loaded Ford F-150 Crew Cab, circa 2001.  (Growing up in Virginia, it’s hard to believe this is my first truck!) We’ve heard that an F-150 will run forever, so we’re hoping it will give us  10 more years of powerful hauling, towing and multiple trips back and

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-69488500729102242302010-05-25T22:53:00.001-04:002010-05-25T22:53:03.967-04:00

And no, I’m not talking about myself… Yesterday, my friend posted a link on Facebook to a pipe cleaner flower ring on Martha Stewart’s website.  Well, since it’s MS, I had to click! Best decision I made all day! This crazy Pipe Cleaner Lady, Wendy Baner, makes everything out of pipe cleaners.  I think she even throws pipe cleaner parties!  Well, on the Martha Stewart Show, she shows

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-35892214179517296872010-05-24T22:24:00.001-04:002010-05-24T22:24:57.913-04:00

Over the weekend, I cleaned and organized my sewing space.  Previously, it looked as if a tornado of thread, fabric and stabilizer tore through my spare bedroom, but now it’s nice and neat!    Everything is back in it’s place, for now. I managed to find enough time to make one small project Sunday evening.  After selling all my fabric bowls last weekend, I thought I deserved the opportunity

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-42854090395163757382010-05-23T21:13:00.001-04:002010-05-23T21:13:57.495-04:00

A couple months ago, I heard the one of my customers loved their onesie so much, that they put it “under glass.”  I decided this was such a cute idea to display my custom onesies, (the best way will always be baby wearing it,) that I displayed one in a frame to show off for North Wales Day! It would be so cute hanging  in a the nursery!, maybe even with a picture of Dad, Mom and Baby in the

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-63673379665400291932010-05-19T22:54:00.001-04:002010-05-19T22:54:58.324-04:00

I don’t have a new baby to show off, but I do have a cute baby gift basket to share!  I made this little gift basket for my new baby niece who’s 8 days old.  I got this cool Fisher Price Ocean Wonders bath caddy, and filled it with lots of things for a baby girl!  A hooded towel, wash clothes, bath soap, lotion, pink onesies, a cute outfit, little socks, a bib, and of course, SewBean’s custom

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-59722367083074056172010-05-17T22:54:00.001-04:002010-05-17T22:54:02.261-04:00

I’m so excited that I finally caught up on my orders tonight!  Well, making them, at least.  Tomorrow, I will make the post office very happy when I ship all these packages!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-10678406112008936052010-05-16T16:39:00.001-04:002010-05-16T16:39:36.342-04:00

Yesterday, for the first time I set up my shop at a local community day!   From 10am to 4pm the streets of North Wales  filled with booths from local businesses and charities (instead of cars) so that the town’s folk could shop, eat, learn, and play with fellow community members while enjoying the beautiful day.  For the bargain price of $25, I purchased a spot to set up my first have craft

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-3959047275808808382010-05-12T23:04:00.001-04:002010-05-12T23:04:04.768-04:00

  I think it’s bedtime…but first, a little of what I’ve been working on.  There’s more in the queue, but I had to stop to finish a baby quilt.  I can’t wait until I have time to share!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-64441423503292876112010-05-11T22:20:00.001-04:002010-05-11T22:20:59.266-04:00

Today has been exceptionally exceptional! And very busy.  I had a lot of exciting things happen today, including getting a niece!  But I just had to try out “Windows Live Writer” before bed, so here’s my first post.  Good Night! 

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-39706633859715328662010-05-09T16:13:00.000-04:002010-05-09T16:13:48.436-04:00

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-5834869864488307422010-05-06T18:55:00.000-04:002010-05-06T18:55:03.237-04:00

Heather, a favorite customer of SewBeans, finally purchased a onesie for herself because she's due in July!!  She's having a little girl and picked out her own combination of colors.  Looks great, and best wishes, Heather! Quick update: I've been really busy!  I'm getting backed up with onesie orders while frantically trying to find time to finish up gifts for friends.  I can't wait to update

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-76068220077021724742010-04-24T19:46:00.002-04:002010-04-24T19:47:51.268-04:00

  I'm a little frustrated and think I've earning my margarita this evening.  MrBeans spent the day at a community event, which left me home alone to sew!  I planned to get some embroidering done in the morning, so I could quilt the afternoon away, but unfortunately, I'm just now (at 7 pm) finishing up the four "quick" and easy pillow cases I needed to embroidering for a friend.  I spent a

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-6036061453319955112010-04-23T20:59:00.001-04:002010-04-23T20:59:58.953-04:00

I've had a couple of new ideas swirling around my head, and this evening, I've finally committed them to embroidery software.  Fancy, huh? I'm hoping to make these offical SewBeans onesies this weekend, then hansomely diplay them (and sell the samples at a super discount!) at North Wales Day on May 15th! Have an comments??  Post them here!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-70747484640164062352010-04-22T21:17:00.000-04:002010-04-22T21:17:46.035-04:00

I had a customer order a custom onesie in "blue."  How do you think it turned out?

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-64563965532995891602010-04-21T21:45:00.000-04:002010-04-21T21:45:34.123-04:00

 I am so excited to post my newest addition to my product line!  If I had  a little girl, she wouldn't be Miss America, but she would be the best thing that ever happened to my town!  Enjoy!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-72355040237948198072010-04-19T18:20:00.000-04:002010-04-19T18:20:07.042-04:00

A new toy came in the mail over the weekend.  Well, a new notion that is, as we have dubbed them here in the craft world.  My new Sewline AQUAeraser makes it really easy to erase marks on fabric.  The pen gets filled with water, then the tip, a "soft fibre point eraser," easily wipes away water soluable marker marks (and Sewliner lead.)  I can now quickly erase those little blue lines without

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-40344155249761607022010-04-15T20:41:00.000-04:002010-04-15T20:41:17.053-04:00

Always prepared, of course! Hyped on free Tax Day iced coffee from Starbucks, I'm prepared for a busy weekend!  I've just finished a bunch of envelopes ready for packaging custom made onesies and that makes me really happy.  Hurray for one less thing to do.   Come Saturday, I'll be filling a bunch of orders from my shop and anxiously preparing for North Wales Day in May.   SewBeans will have a

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-84216029410694946292010-04-12T18:25:00.000-04:002010-04-12T18:25:53.432-04:00

 I've been so busy enjoying the beautiful weather and my garden outside...I guess I didn't notive that I took a little break from crafting. (Although, I did manage to bake some superb s'mores brownies.)  Sew in order to get back to work, I need to get off the computer, fold the laundry and make dinner.  Then maybe I can play.  Don't you hate it when life gets in the way of living? Here's my

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-68040992421398188102010-04-04T13:28:00.002-04:002010-04-04T13:29:51.294-04:00

Today is a beautiful day; the perfect day to celebrate Easter.  Not wanting to celebrate the holiday without my own personal touch, I enjoyed making these bright and cheery napkins for the occasion, and of course to continue to use throughout Spring and Summer.  The colors made me so happy while sewing them together, and you'll notice I didn't bother to ruin my mood trying to iron them!  They'll

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-33155034105738462942010-04-03T09:19:00.000-04:002010-04-03T09:19:22.130-04:00

Baby Andrew's Easter basket is ready for the bunny!  Finally finished, mom and baby love it. Based on the pattern by V and Co, Fabric Easter basket, my finished basket has about a 10" diameter and combination of machine sewing and hand stitching.  The base of the basket is made up of about 15 yards of fabric wrapped, 12/32 cording;  that's 11 more yards than what the original pattern calls for!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-56255817318781185022010-04-02T09:07:00.000-04:002010-04-02T09:07:01.222-04:00

The thought of going to work on such a beautiful day made me sick...so I'm home.  Still not ready for Easter, I've been busily sewing together an Easter Basket all week.  It's still not finished, but that didn't stop my from trying to squeeze in one last project before Sunday. My local quilt shop is closing.  Although I wasn't the greatest fan of their fabric selection, I am sad to see it go. 

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-82292860804461428612010-03-28T13:13:00.000-04:002010-03-28T13:13:58.285-04:00

 Earlier this week, one of my customers surprised me with their baby shower story.  She said that her  co-worker, who received a dad+mom=me onesie as part of the gift, loved it so much that they framed it!  Imagine, my work under glass!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-23672626667075266762010-03-24T21:46:00.000-04:002010-03-24T21:46:18.742-04:00

One of my good friends commissioned me to make an Easter Basket for her three month old son.  She found a pattern on Moda's Bake Shop  for a Fabric Easter Basket by V and Co, and I just finished the prototype! I'm glad I made my own first, because the finished basket was a lot smaller than I (and my friend) originally thought it would be.  The Easter Bunny's got many years ahead to fill it

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-37750135241798369832010-03-23T18:56:00.000-04:002010-03-23T18:56:58.357-04:00

Because it makes Mom's smile twice as big! You learn something new everyday:  "Mormor" is Grandmother in Danish.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-43338586896699082122010-03-18T22:39:00.000-04:002010-03-18T22:39:51.491-04:00

This is my 100th post!  A few months ago this seemed to far away!  Back then, I planned for a fun blog banner design competition, but number 100 snuck up on me and I didn't get a chance to set it up.  Maybe for the 250th post?!?  I'm off to Wisconsin to visit my Grandmother this weekend.  Ironically, I finished up the evening embroidering an "i heart grandma" onesie.  Now to go fit my weekend

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-3495715990592460122010-03-14T22:02:00.000-04:002010-03-14T22:02:09.968-04:00

Saturday, instead of working on my mounding pile of projects, I helped my mother-in-law shop for a new sewing machine!  I just loved having an excuse to check out the latest features and newest machines.  We saw some beauties, but it seems that the features and price of the Brother Innov-is 1500D really caught her eye.   She hasn't bought it yet, but I hope I get to come over when she unpacks it

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-85350903888388301662010-03-11T22:35:00.001-05:002010-03-11T22:35:29.879-05:00

  I've been busy again tonight embroidering up a storm!  Check out my new listing! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42541296 http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42540485

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-303030514123049682010-03-09T18:31:00.001-05:002010-03-09T18:32:20.610-05:00

 Today, I got a most wonderful package of brightly colored fabrics in the mail.   With 61 degree weather outside and warm and sunny fabrics inside, it must be spring! The top Honey Bun of Moda's Hunky Dory will be made into a fabric Easter Basket.  The middle is a beautiful specrtum of Kona cotton solids...their use TBD.  On the bottom, a yard of Alexander Henry's Willow Grove is filled with my

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-79919504710708979052010-03-08T21:17:00.000-05:002010-03-08T21:17:40.698-05:00

  I had a long weekend, which I finished off by making two more onesies.  I played handbells at a workshop all day Saturday, and when I woke up on Sunday, my shoulders were throbbing from all those bell circles.  (I felt like such a nerd sustaining injury from handbells...)  After a couple of Motrin, I spent the morning cleaning, the afternoon entertaining and the evening, well, making onesies.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-43206909608794137602010-03-04T19:41:00.000-05:002010-03-04T19:41:55.391-05:00

   About a month ago, I ordered this adorable Couch Potato Eye Pillow Kit from Scarlet Fig on Etsy. (And some awesome fabric with donkeys wearing wellies, but we'll worry about that another day.)  The perfect packaging claims, "Make in twenty minutes."  HA!  I made it five!  It was so fun and easy! The simple kit comes with a panel of her beautifully designed couch fabric, a bag of aromatic

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-73056435016766478162010-03-01T22:19:00.000-05:002010-03-01T22:19:48.582-05:00

Last night I was very busy, and today, I was very tired.  So now that I'm coming off of the juice (aka, coffee) it's time for bed!   I'll be updating my shop pictures soon...but not tonight.

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-45553646576926074882010-02-27T15:08:00.001-05:002010-02-27T15:08:37.522-05:00

 I'm very excited about happening upon Vanessa Christenson's blog yesterday!  She's got a great sense of style and some awesome tutorials on her blog, including this No Sew Fabric Wreath that I've just added to my to-do list.  Now, I'm stepping away from my computer so I'm not tempted to purchase one of the many tutorials for sale on her etsy site. 

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-16502843750915544352010-02-24T20:50:00.004-05:002010-04-11T22:46:41.168-04:00

I'm having a sample sale at my Etsy Shop!  I need new samples, so you get a deal!  Now's you chance to get a customized baby onesie at a great price.  Prices as marked at a 50% off discount!  Act fast, because there's only ONE LEFT, and it's first come, first serve! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29472247

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-18616807938311129572010-02-23T20:31:00.000-05:002010-02-23T20:31:19.683-05:00

  Over the weekend, I finally updated the bare wreaths sitting on top of my bookshelves.  I bought two grapevine wreaths from Michaels back in January, and added the white berries, which I purchased for this purpose at AC Moore back in September!  I used thin floral wire to tie the berry vine to the grapevine, and I was impressed at how quickly I finished.  I'm not sure if they're complete yet,

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-5832511544557657762010-02-22T23:11:00.000-05:002010-02-22T23:11:59.314-05:00

Hey foodies!  Last Friday, Alton Brown came to town to give a celebrity lecture supporting the Indian Creek Foundation, and I enjoyed being in attendance.  Alton entertained by mixing three recipes and a continuous Q&A dialogue with the audience. Sadly, this is the best picture I got.  Having lost 50 pounds, he was a little more difficult to catch on camera (certainly not because of the quality

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-66433348837952875372010-02-19T18:13:00.001-05:002010-02-19T18:14:01.516-05:00

I apologize for not piling up the beans for the first time last week, but fear not!  I've got a peace offering of cookies this week...well, sort of: Earlier this week, while perusing the website of one of my favorite local fabric shops, Spool, I found this adorable sewing machine cookie cutter.  Such a perfect shape for those of us sewing inclined, and these cookies must be "sew" much fun to

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-75035806919699449062010-02-18T19:33:00.005-05:002010-02-18T19:45:40.564-05:00

Now that I'm refreshed by another long day...hmm...  Now that I'm finally nestled into my couch, computer on my lap, cat to one side and coffee to the other, I return back to work.  But only for the benefit of those of you faithful followers, biting your nails after the abrupt ending to my last blog post.  So without further ado, reference the picture and check out some of the cool stuff that

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-51284383877274621422010-02-17T23:28:00.001-05:002010-02-18T18:52:28.537-05:00

Alternate Title: the Crafty Office I have a cofession to make, I've been working a lot in an office recenlty, away from my craft table and sewing machine.  It's a bummer, but I've got my obsession with the smell of freshly purchased fabic to deal with.  To top it off, I recently subjected myself to a viewing of Confessions of a Shopaholic, which has lead me to the realization of my  second

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-44676738446056976032010-02-15T20:14:00.000-05:002010-02-15T20:14:34.345-05:00

This evening, I took a ride through the blustery snow to get a leak fixed in one of my car's tires. Five minutes and $2 after entering the store, I left it with a repaired tire. Did I miss something? These days, you practically have to pay someone $5 to take $2 away from you. What a steal!  Tonight, I think I pulled off literal highway robbery! Which reminds me, yesterday, my Valentine

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-13510417015383992372010-02-13T14:48:00.010-05:002010-02-13T19:07:36.429-05:00

BEWARE of too much fun!  This blog post contains a video and a duck. The talented MrBeans plays the drum set in a two-man band called the Duck Inside.  So for the past week, he's steadily improved his airbrushing techniques creating some pretty cool band t-shirts for an upcoming show.  I, overcome with the excitement of my newest version of embroidery software, decided it would be way cooler to

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-169742706480998022010-02-11T18:54:00.001-05:002010-02-13T18:36:33.443-05:00

   Yes...but when I saw a cute fabric basket for holding pens and pencils on Etsy, I didn't want to buy something I knew I could easily make...  That's not really stealing, is it? Here's the original "Pretty Flowers Tasket Set" that I spied on Etsy by Jenn Maruska Designs: And here's my attempt at "creating my own version" of her design:   Overall, I'm mildly impressed on how my basket turned

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-2306202304267364512010-02-10T09:38:00.000-05:002010-02-10T09:38:18.532-05:00

Today is my first official Snow Day as a working adult!  There's nothing like getting paid to stay home and watch it snow.  But I won't be gazing outside all day...As you can see, I've got a drifting pile of stuff to shovel myself out of.  I've got an ambitious list to work on today, so talk to you later, and enjoy the snow!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-36664126516030903872010-02-09T19:26:00.000-05:002010-02-09T19:26:57.245-05:00

It's snowing outside again!  And I've come up with a great use for one of my old sewing supplies.  Over the weekend, this old quilting ruler rested perfectly against the snow plowed path cut along my sidewalk.  I'll be out there again tomorrow with this handy, recycled device, measuring the day's progress, blizzard conditions pending, of course!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1616036983097790683.post-2040340539132170152010-02-07T22:30:00.000-05:002010-02-07T22:30:16.975-05:00

  Isn't he adorable!  Jennifer sent me this picture of her new baby boy posing for his birth announcement photo.  Is it possible that some of that cuteness is coming from the adorable onesie he's wearing??   Well, he's probably cute in whatever he's wearing, but I'm rather honored that Silas is hamming it up in one of my custom onesies.  Thanks for sharing Jennifer!

Jillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16109148058211752621noreply@blogger.com0