Remember the peachy top with zippered pockets? I heard the clamor for a tutorial (do two people count as a clamor?), and I am a woman that delivers. This, my friends, is my first sewing tutorial and I'm going to throw the disclaimer out there that it's a bit rough. First of all, I had some challenges editing down photos so warning: endless photos coming up. At the same time, I seem to have missed taking photos of some key sections, but c'est la vie. Anyway, if you're feeling the need to add ... Read more
Only the necessary and beautiful
Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. - William Morris This is a minuscule corner of my minuscule kitchen in my minuscule house. The uniformity and functionality and zen-ness make me happy. It is the only section that looks this organized in all 1500 square feet of space we call home. I use this small pantry every day, and I love how I can tell at a glance what requires replenishing, especially critical ingredients like dark ... Read more
Monday Outfit: Winter to Spring Transitional Dress
Good morning! How is your Monday treating you so far? I had a grand time this weekend, partying it up with K's little friends at a horse-riding birthday party. It sounds rather highfalutin but was actually very un-fancy and super fun. Held at a city park with a tiny animal farm, 10 girls got to ride a gentle pony for a couple of minutes each, and I have to say the show was stolen by Sunny, the 500-pound pig, snoring loudly in her pen. This week's outfit is a simple dress with vintage ... Read more
Happy Friday + Art Show Wrap-Up
Happy Friday, everyone! What a good week it's been. I taught ceramics to kindergartners yesterday, and they are the best. I love how there's no inhibition to ask for help, how they are all naturally brilliant artists. I say, "make an animal" or "create a story with just symbols and images" and there is no shortage of inspiration and they dive in with gusto. Not an iota of hesitation. So great. I have much to learn from these five-year-olds. My art show is wrapping up next week! I made ... Read more
Japanese Pattern Books – Part 1
So, I have a lot of Japanese pattern books. A lot. Today, I thought it might be fun to show you my library of beloved kids' pattern books (I also have a lot of pattern books for grown-ups...an intervention may be in order). I've gotten quite a few requests for recommendations, and though I can't claim to be any sort of expert, I have sewn a fair amount from most of these and have my faves (which I've shared with you at the very bottom). I plan on doing a more elaborate review that ... Read more