Scandinavian Style Sewing Series

It's Day 2 of the Scandinavian Style Sewing Series hosted by the wonderful Stacey from Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy crafts.  I was especially excited in participating in this series because I love this style!  The simplicity and minimalism are right up my design alley, and I couldn't wait to create my look.  My research took my to CIFF and the Scandinavian Mini Mall.  There, I found gorgeous garments ranging from bright, whimsical prints to understated modern neutrals.  Searching my stash, I found some cozy off-white faux fur I bought ages ago, and knew in an instant that it had to be a part of the outfit in the form of a reversible vest.  From there, the rest came together, from the black ribbed jersey turtleneck, to the quilted cotton skirt, and finally, up-cycled leg warmers made from socks.  

All the garments for this outfit were adapted from existing clothing or self-drafted patterns.  If you'd like to re-create part of the look, I've got a couple tutorials for you.

CLICK HERE for the Legwarmer Tutorial

CLICK HERE for the Faux Fur Vest Tutorial

Thank you Stacey for this great idea for a series and for the invitation to participate.  

Faux Fur Vest Tutorial

Olivia Top and Dress Pattern Tour and Giveaway

Have you seen the lovely newest pattern by the amazing Jessica from Craftiness is not Optional?  Well, the Olivia Top and Dress is simply adorable, and I was so excited to be a part of the tour.  Shockingly, after all the dresses I made for her last summer, Anja was actually in need of something that fits, and this one was perfect!  

Here's Jessica's description of the Olivia Top and Dress: 

"This frock features and adorable button up empire waist style bodice, with sleeves in three variations: sleeveless, short, and elbow length. The gathered skirt is comfortable and breezy, and the fit is meant to be loose and flowing-it's all about comfort!"  

I love a pattern with opportunities to personalize, and that's exactly what this one offers. I chose to lengthen the sleeves, and add bias tape to them, as well as some ties for the back and front pockets.  Other then that, I stuck to the original.

The pattern was super easy to follow (love how Jessica's fun personality shines through the instructions like she's right there with you!), and the photographs are gorgeous.  

The Olivia Top and Dress pattern is available here.

I'm so excited that one lucky reader will get to enjoy this pattern, too!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

There are still a couple days left in the tour, so keep following along, or catch up on Olivia Tops and Dresses you've missed.

*I received a complimentary pattern in exchange for this honest review.*

Kids Clothes Week Day 3

It's Day 3 of KCW, and today, I have a little pattern remix to show you.  I've mentioned several times before how much I've enjoyed sewing up see kate sew's Recess Raglan Tee pattern, and having made a bunch of them, thought it was time to mix it up.  So, using a size 2, I turned the Tee into a dress by adding a little gathered skirt and cuffs to the sleeves.  The result is some casual, comfy colour-blocking.  

Not sure what I'm going to work on tomorrow...patterns are all over the floor in my sewing area, and I can't decide on which one to make!  Decisions, decisions...

Kids Clothes Week Day 2

On Day 2 of KCW, I finished up another pair of Alex and Anna Winter PJs from the Peekaboo Pattern Shop (affiliate link) for my boy.  I highly recommend this pattern...it's awesome!  Tobias is wearing a size 3 (yes, he's a five year old who's the width of a three year old!), with lengthened sleeves and pants.  Similar to his sister's pjs, I added his favourite elephant to the front to personalize the pjs.

The construction of the sleeve is changed from the original pattern since I upcycled an existing t-shirt and wanted to take advantage of the finished edges.

An exposed elastic on the waistband in a bright contrasting yellow gives the pjs some colour pop.

And another practical project done!  Back tomorrow with another new creation.

Kids Clothes Week Day 1

YAY for Kids Clothes Week!  I've been anxious to get back to sewing after our big move, and what better motivation than participating in the best sew-along there is!  The first couple of days will be all about some practical sewing because both my children have outgrown all their pyjamas.

Anja is modelling a pair of Alex and Anna Winter PJs from the Peekaboo Pattern Shop (affiliate link) in a size 3.  I love how they turned out!  You really can't go wrong as far as a super quick & easy pattern with satisfying results.  I added the little ducky on the front in contrasting striped jersey cotton/lycra knit for fun.

Another change I made from the original pattern was the waistband.  Using some cute contrasting elastic, I left it exposed by stretching it on the right side of the pants as I attached it.  

And how does my baby girl like them?  This face says it all!

Are you participating in KCW?  What are you working on?

Moms Know Moms at Little Kids Grow

My friend and fellow-blogger, Shannon, from Little Kids Grow is a huge inspiration to me. She's a mom of six (with a sweet number seven on the way) who somehow finds the time to create beautiful clothing for her children and herself (and she homeschools, too!). Aside from that, she's incredibly passionate about parenting and has brought together a group of blogger moms to give honest insights to how we function behind the scenes of our online blog lives.  Today, it's my turn to share, so feel free to stop by.  Thank you, Shannon for this wonderful series, and honouring me with the invitation to participate.