This past weekend, we took Alex to the Vans store to pick out a new pair of shoes. He originally chose a brightly colored pair and just when we thought we were done, the Vans employee that was helping get Alex fitted said, "You know, a lot of people like to buy the plain white slip-ons and use fabric markers to create their own design." Alex's eyes got huge and bright. He was sold on the idea! So we bought a white pair of shoes and headed home with only a vague idea of how we would paint … [Read more...]
Drawstring Bag Tutorial
A couple of weeks ago, I posted my heating pad tutorial and at the end, I mentioned that I would like to put together a drawstring bag for attractive gift-giving as well as storage. So...here's the tutorial. Cut a pattern (here's that gridded paper I love so much...in a peppermint stripe) that is a 11.25" x 7.5" rectangle. Pin it to your fabric with one of the short ends on the fold. Cut your fabric, open up the rectangle (should be 22.5" x 7.5") and finish your … [Read more...]
Padded iPad Sleeve Tutorial
(Note: This tutorial was created for the first generation iPad, but can be adapted for all generations.) When we were at the Apple store buying my iPad, they had a decent selection of protective cases available, but if you guys know me by now, you know that I had to at least try to make my own before I gave in and bought one. I quickly went through Plan A and Plan B before I was successful. So, with you I share my Plan C. It's a very simple, quick project to put together. It's not so … [Read more...]
Heating Pad Tutorial
So this is a project that's been in the back of my mind for months, but it took finding the perfect fabric to get motivated and get going on it. When I laid my eyes on Amy Butler's LOVE flannels, I knew it was time. I chose this vibrant, yet soothing flannel and got busy. See, there's a particular day each month *ahem* that makes me yearn for a good, heavy heating pad, but by the time my body reminds me that I want it....well, I'm just too crabby to sew. ;) This month, though, I'm … [Read more...]
Light Switch Extension Tutorial
This tutorial is for you mommies out there with a super-independent little one on your hands. A little one that insists on doing everything by him- or herself, but just doesn't realize the limitations that their age and size might bring. Limitations such as not being able to reach the bathroom light switch during their mad dash to the potty while they're saying to you, "No, Mommy! I don't need help! I can do it all myself!" Because Elliott is the epitome of Little Miss Independence, I had … [Read more...]