Origami was a huge part of my childhood. I can still whip out a crane in one minute flat, and I used to fold paper boxes by the dozen. My favorite origami activity by far was making origami dolls, though. They typically look like this (the tutorial here is also nice), but I actually liked making just the kimono. I would try all sorts of pattern combinations, which could keep me entertained for hours. These make great bookmarks as well! I am starting to think about holiday gifts and a ... Read more
Handmade Pouches
Hello, hello! I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable weekend! Sometimes it's nice to switch things up a bit and sew some quick and satisfying non-clothes projects. I made several pouches as birthday gifts for friends this weekend (two grown-up birthday parties in one weekend - so fun!). The first pouch you see above is made from a sturdy burlap-esque fabric with a variety of colorful animals. The second pouch is made from one of my favorite fabrics from Bitters, a fabulous store ... Read more
Happy Friday + Boho Dolman Top
Happy Friday, friends! Here is the last of my KCWC creations from last week that I was finally able to get photographed. First, the fabric: a GORGEOUS embroidered delicate knit. I am in love with the colors. Second, the pattern: self-drafted. Sadly, I am no pattern maker and this was not a huge success. Since I'm not the best at sewing knits, it looks somewhat frumpy to me. But you know what? Six-year-olds don't stay still long enough, so my many sewing sins are hard to ... Read more
Herringbone Jacket + Knickerbockers
It was early in the morning. We had ten minutes before we had to leave for school. K was very cranky and didn't want to model for me (nor brush her hair, as you'll see). I had to console myself with taking pictures of the stool at first. I think what used to be a fun, once-a-week fashion show was starting to feel like a chore when demanded multiple times a week. But then she grudgingly got on the stool. And then she swiveled... And swiveled... Until she started getting ... Read more
Pluot Crisp
I'm not a huge fan of plums or apricots, but when presented with the hybrid pluot, I'm all over it. I'm smitten with the orange-pink hue of the fruit and its tart yet sweet flavor. I adapted Ina Garten's Pear, Apple and Cranberry Crisp to create a cozy, comforting dessert. I halved the recipe, replaced the fruit with pluots and baked them in individual little bowls. It's very, very yummy. That pretty grey fabric is a remnant from a sewing project I'm working on that I'll share with you ... Read more