Lula Louise

Free Printable – I Love You Like Valentine's Day Card

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

Here's another Valentine's Day card free for you to download and print yourself. Simple and to the point, the design uses the Ostrich Sans font from the League of Movable Type.

The size of the finished card is 4 x 6 inches when folded. Below is an image of the pdf with crop and fold marks. Click here or the image below to download.

Free Printable – Happy Valentine's Day Cards

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

The perfect accompaniment to any card is a cute little box of candy. Instructions to make origami boxes are from this book.

I've designed two Valentine's Day greeting cards free for you to download and print yourself. There is just one pdf to download, with one of each card per 8.5 x 11 inch page (see below for a preview). Click here or image below to download.

Simply print it out, cut along the dotted line and then fold in half. Each finished card is 5.5 x 4.25 inches. Make sure to print with Page Scaling set to "None".

If you have a lot of valentines ;) or are just looking for something different, stay tuned because I will be posting more designs as the holiday approaches. Also, check out last year's free Valentine's Day card.

Pierre Kitty Cat

2012-01-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

I saw a knitted cat in a boutique last month. It was way out of my price range and I immediately decided that I could make one myself. (Check out the original here.) So admittedly, this is a total knockoff. I already had all of the supplies on hand so the only cost was time.

I knit this in the round using size 7 double pointed needles and Loops & Threads Cotton Club yarn. This is the same yarn I used for my cotton baby moccasins. The double pointed needles were kind of slow going so I'd like to try another animal on straight needles (also one size smaller) and then sew it together.

Friday Faves – Jan 20

2012-01-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

Font: Ostrich Sans Rounded

My favorite font of the week, from The League of Movable Type, is simple yet bold. I used it in some Valentine's Day cards that I will be posting soon (check back in on Monday).

This stuffed penguin from the Purl Bee is so adorable (photo from Purl Bee). I can't wait to make one. I just finished making a knitted kitty-cat that I will be showing you soon (so cute!). I'm afraid making little animals could become addictive.

More things to check out:

Elegant Paper Wreath from Stylelist
Downton Abbey on PBS.org (Seriously good. I feel sad every time an episode ends.)
Yarn covered wire letters from Family Chic (via Stylelist)
McCall's sewing patterns M6512 and M6520. These patterns are basic, beautiful and provide lots of options.

Thursday Thriftday - Jan 19

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

Craft from the Past - Paper Covered Boxes

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

I decorated these little boxes ages ago. They are great for holding jewelry, makeup or other knick-knacks. And you can customize it them to fit any style. I purchased paper board boxes from the craft store (see one in the pic below) and then covered them in paper. For the box above, I used scraps of magazines arranged into a flower pattern for the top. For the sides of the lid and bottom, I used overlapping rectangle shapes.

For the box with the lavender patterned paper, I wrapped the side of the bottom with a long rectangle of paper. For the lid, I glued a circle larger than the lid to the top. Then to cover the sides of the lid, I snipped the paper to the rim (like when clipping a curved seam in sewing), folded the paper over the sides, letting it overlap, glued in place and then trimmed away any excess.

Book Review – Modern Paper Crafts

2012-01-08T21:44:00.000-08:00

I received Modern Paper Crafts by Margaret Van Sicklen for Christmas. It features a variety of unique and inventive paper projects. The photos are beautiful and the instructions are clear. The spiral binding is also ideal for reading and crafting.

I love the subtle beauty of the Chevron Wall Decor from the folding chapter.

The Pleated Lamp Shades are amazing.

First off I made some Treat Boxes. I've made this kind of box before. They are fun, easy to make and a bit addictive (so much so that I once used them to wrap Christmas presents). You can use a smaller piece of paper to make the lid so that it still shows the sides of the bottom box (see the two boxes on the bottom of the stack above). Sizing the lid to fit the bottom of the box can be a little tricky. I haven't figured out the perfect ratio of paper size and folds so it's a game of chance but is based on folding the sides short of the middle.

I also made a few of the Organizer Trays using scrapbook paper and card stock. When completed, these boxes show both the right and wrong side of the paper. Choose a double sided paper or make one using the instructions in the book.

The boxes were easy to put together and the perfect inspiration for cleaning up and organizing a messy drawer. Before and after above.

Work In Progress - Retro Rib Socks

2012-01-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

Retro Rib Socks pattern by Evelyn A. Clark, featured in the book Favorite Socks

Thursday Thriftday - Jan 5

2012-01-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

Champagne Cage Mini Chairs

2012-01-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

I saw this miniature chair diy ages ago on Design*Sponge. So when New Year's Eve came around (and the requisite champagne of course), I saved the cages that cover the corks. It was easy to fashion them into adorable little chairs. Basic jewelry making tools helped to bend and cut the wire.. There are a number of tutorials elsewhere online as well if you are looking for more direction.

Free Printable - Happy New Year Cards

2011-12-30T12:30:00.000-08:00

I've designed two Happy New Year greeting cards free for you to download. There is just one pdf to download with one of each card per 8.5 x 11 inch page (see below for a preview). Click here or any of the images to download.

Simply print it out, cut along the dotted line and then fold in half. The finished card is 5.5 x 4.25 inches. Happy New Year!!!

Friday Faves - Dec 30

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

My Top Faves 2011

In honor of the quickly approaching new year, I thought I'd do a roundup of my favorite things of the year.

Projects
drape drape dress no 5
Sunday Summer Outfit
Ava's Frappe Cardigan

TV
Downton Abbey

Movies
The Muppets

Music
Belle Brigade
Mumford and Sons (best live show!)
Cut Copy

Fonts
Everything from Lost Type Co-Op (Wisdom Script above)

Websites
Pinterest

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

P.S.
Check back in later in the day for some free Happy New Year cards.

Thursday Thriftday - Dec 29

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:23:00.000-08:00

Thursday Thriftday - Dec 22

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Yo-Yo Placemat

2011-12-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

While a nice use of scrap fabric, making yo-yos can be a tedious project. Then sewing them all together is even more tedious. But the end result is rather satisfying. (First blogged about here.)

Christmas Note Cards and Hangtags

2011-12-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

This weekend I whipped up some Christmas note cards and hangtags. I had plain note cards sitting around ready to be decorated. I punched a decorative edge on the side of the note card and stamped fir trees in the center. For the hangtags, I cut a manila folder into 2.5 x 3.5 inch rectangles, trimmed off two corners, punched a hole in the top and stamped the center.

Thursday Thriftday - Dec 15

2011-12-15T08:00:00.001-08:00

Free Printable 2012 Calendar - Between The Lines

2011-12-12T22:47:00.000-08:00

"Between the Lines" is the third (and final) calendar in my series of FREE to download, printable calendars. This one is probably my favorite of the three. It features the font Homestead (available for free at Lost Type Co-Op) and bright overlapping colors. The graphics for each month were created using the same lines used in the font.

To download click here or one of the images below. Print out the pdf on 8.5 x 11 paper, cut in half, stack it up and you're ready to go! I hope you enjoy!

Grumpy Bear

2011-12-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

I made this cute little bear using the pattern Grumpy Old Bear (ravlery link) by Susan B. Anderson in the book Itty-Bitty Nursery. It was very easy to knit and fairly easy to construct. The part that gave me the most trouble was the feet. The pattern calls for using plastic pellets to fill part of bear, which I used. Then my mom told me that the pellets say "Not for children under 3" on the bag which is rather frustrating since the book is full of patterns for babies. I've also noticed some pellet leakage through the openings in the knit.

Overall, I am pleased with the bear. His face turned out really nice. I used a vintage thread (pictured above) and took my time to make satin stitch eyes and nose. I recommend the pattern with the caveats of the funky feet (maybe they could be done like the hands instead of two separate pieces) and the plastic pellets.

Friday Faves - Dec 9

2011-12-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

The Calendar Edition

Font: Pompadour (includes numerals only) from Lost Type Co-Op

I'm giving away free printable 2012 calendars for you to download. I've already released two and will post a third design on Monday. Check out the Walking the Tightrope 2012 Calendar and the By The Numbers 2012 Calendar.

Download it/Make it
Free Owl Lover 2012 Calendar from Owl Barn
Free 2012 Mini Calendar from Very Merry Vintage Style
Free Printable Advent Calendars from Apartment Therapy
DIY Falling Stars Advent Calendar from Design*Sponge

Buy it
Ten Modern Calendars from Apartment Therapy
Collectable Crafty Calendar from WhipUp.net
Cute Animal 2012 Calendar from Loopzart on etsy
Handprinted 2012 Calendar from Sheepshead on etsy
Vintage Luggage Tag Calendar from Girlingearstudio on etsy

And for your listening pleasure here's a video of The Black Keys performing the song Lonely Boy on The Colbert Report. It's an awesome song and that's my brother playing keyboards in the back. :)

Thursday Thriftday - Dec 8

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Free Printable 2012 Calendar - By the Numbers

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

The second calendar in my series of free 2012 downloadable pdfs features the fonts Pompadour and Governor from Lost Type Co-op. Each month features a different popular phrase utilizing the number of that particular month.

Click here or the images below to download the pdf. After downloading, print it out on heavy paper, cut in half, stack it up and you're ready to go! I hope you enjoy this one. Stay tuned for the third and final 2012 calendar next week.

Friday Faves - Dec 2

2011-12-02T20:27:00.000-08:00

Font: Lavanderia from Lost Type Co-op

Check out the holiday issues of these cool online magazines:
Mache magazine
Anthology Mag
Lonny
Sweet Paul

Round ups of DIY holiday gifts:
DIY Best of Handmade Gifts at Design*Sponge
2011 Ultimate DIY Gift Guide from DM Designs
Holiday Gift Ideas DIY group on flickr
DIY Edible Holiday Gifts from Saveur
Homemade Holiday Gift Ideas from Apartment Therapy (and if that's not enough crafting also check out DIY Centerpiece Roundup and Holiday Tree Alternatives)
Handmade Gifts from Martha Stewart

Thursday Thriftday - Dec 1

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Free Printable 2012 Calendar - Walking the Tightrope

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that 2012 is almost upon us? I certainly can't. So, to help you transition into the new year, I've designed some 2012 calendars to share with you. Just like last year, the calendars are free downloadable pdfs, ready to print on letter size paper. Cut each page in half, stack it up and you're ready to go!

There are three different designs which I'll be revealing one at a time for the next three weeks. This week's calendar is called "Walking the Tightrope" because it features the font Tightrope by Lost Type Co-op. Tightrope is a really fun, carnival font. Each month features a brightly colored letter and background. Click here or the images below to download the pdf.

Friday Faves - Nov 18

2011-11-18T17:56:00.001-08:00

Some random links from the week:
Design your own wrapping paper and get it printed with giftskins.com/ (how cool would this be for the holidays?)
Photo Fabric Dye from Photojojo (so much fun!)
Holiday Ecards from Anthropologie (really cute and animated)
Customize your own Charm Necklace also at Anthropologie (awesomeness!)
Cornhusk Wreath from Martha Stewart (seriously prettier than one would expect cornhusks to be)
Knotted Fringe Table Runner on Design*Sponge (very 70s cool)

Thursday Thriftday - Nov 10

2011-11-10T10:30:00.000-08:00

Friday Faves - Nov 4

2011-11-04T09:15:00.000-07:00

Font: Populaire from My Fonts

The Christmas Stocking Edition

Above: Christmas Stockings with Wool Felt Icicles photo from Martha Stewart

Free Patterns for your enjoyment:

Classic Stocking from Family Fun

Monogrammed Stocking from Craftzine

All the Trimmings Stocking from Denyse Schmidt

Embroidered Stocking from Meet Me At Mike's

Stocking Patterns from AllYou.com
Fun Dotted Stockings from Cherry Men Love

Martha Stewart has an entire gallery of stockings

In case you haven't already voted, please check out my fabric poll.

Thursday Thriftday - Nov 3

2011-11-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

Work In Progress - Yo-Yo Placemat

2011-11-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Friday Faves - Oct 28

2011-10-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

Font: Stitch by Margaret Nichol Design on FontStruct

Friday Faves The Embroidery Edition

Above: Russian Dolls Embroidery Pattern from A Little Sweetness on etsy for $18

Free Patterns and Tutorials:

Patterns from Wee Wonderfuls

DIY Hand Stitching Part 1 and Part 2 from Freckled Nest (via Craftzine)

All about all kinds of embroidery and How To Tutorial at The Purl Bee

Free patterns Vintage Transfer Finds

Embroidery Blogs:

We Love French Knots

Feeling Stitchy

Sew Lovely Embroidery

Handmade Cathy Gaubert

Little Dear Tracks

Carina's Craftblog

Eye Candy on Flickr:

Feeling Stitchy Embroidery Group

Embroidery Design Group

New Embroidery with Vintage Patterns Group

Sublime Stitching Embroidery Group

Hand Embroidery Network Group

Thursday Thriftday - Oct 27

2011-10-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

Friday Faves - Oct 21

2011-10-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Font: Governor from Lost Type Co-Op

Free Patterns and Tutorials around the web

Teeny-tiny Mochimochi Knitted Chicken pattern from Craftzine

Gadget Pouch Tutorial on whipup.net

The Whistler Infinity Scarf pattern from The Little Knittery

Circle Scarf Tutorial from Come On Ilene

Pencil Pouch Tutorial from Sweet Verbena

Mystery Braid Bracelet Tutorial from Martha Stewart

Thursday Thriftday - Oct 20

2011-10-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

Learn about Ableskivers (aka Ebleskiver).

Missing Ready Made

2011-10-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

ReadyMade magazine has closed its doors. Although it was announced in June, I had no idea until this weekend when a Better Homes and Gardens was delivered to my mailbox as a replacement. I'm going to miss ReadyMade. It took DIY projects to a higher level and inspired me. So long ReadyMade magazine!

Friday Faves - October 14

2011-10-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Font: Homestead from Lost Type Co-Op

Craft

Prints Charming embroidery on the purl bee

Knitting

Big Snowy Owl knitted softie from the purl bee

Coffee Cosies from Pickles

Backwards Upside Down sweater from Pickles

Funny Funny Blog

http://feministryangosling.tumblr.com/

Vogue V1207 Dress

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

This dress is made with Vogue pattern V1207 using fabric I purchased from the Michael Levine bulk store a little more than a year ago. I started the dress a long time ago but stalled out at the sleeves. It was a time consuming dress to make with all the little pleats in the sleeves and bodice.

One change I made was to raise the "V" in the back. I wish that I had added more length to both the bodice and the skirt. I think it looks a little frumpy with the current proportions.

Some of the seams are a bit puckered as well. It's definitely not my best creation. The pattern is ok but I likely won't be making it again.

Fabric Poll Simplicity 1939

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

Help me choose which fabric I should use with Simplicity 1939. Vote below. And Thank You!

<a href="http://www.sodahead.com/living/which-fabric-is-best-for-simplicity-pattern-1939/question-2209949/" title="Which fabric is best for Simplicity Pattern 1939?">Which fabric is best for Simplicity Pattern 1939?</a>

Public Opinion View Results

Drape Drape Dress no. 5

2011-10-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

This dress is made using pattern no. 5 from the Japanese sewing book drape drape. I've made two other dresses from this book (No. 4 and No. 6). This was the most difficult, mostly due to some big mistakes on my part. I've probably been working on this dress for about a year. I'm so glad that it is FINALLY finished.

I decided to make a few adjustments to the pattern. First, I raised the v-back to make it less revealing. I cut all the pieces and decided that the front bodice was not big enough. I paper pieced, redrafted and recut.

Construction of the bodice was going fine until I got to the skirt. I spent a few hours trying to figure out how to attach the skirt to the bodice and finally figured out that I had cut 1 skirt piece but needed 2. And I did not have enough extra fabric to cut another. I went back to Michael Levine thinking maybe I could buy more. And I did find a knit magenta fabric. I bought 3 yards, brought it home, washed it. And it was slightly thicker than the original.

So, I was stuck. Months went by. One day, I went to the Michael Levine bulk store and found magenta knit fabric. It looked the same and felt the same, so of course I bought it. And miracle of miracles it was the same as my original fabric! I cut the second piece of the skirt and proceeded piecing the dress together.

I went so far as to insert the zipper. All I had left to do was hem it. I tried on the dress and the bodice was now too big. I let more months go by in despair. Finally, I picked it up again, figured out what adjustments were needed and redrafted the bodice again. I eliminated the overlap at the center front in favor of a center front seam. I had just enough fabric to cut a new bodice and lining. This time, I added interfacing to the seams on the lining. I removed the old one and put in the bodice. The last step was the hem and I was finally done. Throughout the process, I stitched the seams with a piece of tissue paper underneath to help feed the fabric under the presser foot. I used scrap tissue from other patterns and gently tore it away after stitching.

Overall, I'm pleased with the end result but mostly glad to finally be done.

Friday Faves - October 7

2011-10-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

Font: Deming from Lost Type Co-op

New Fall Sewing Patterns

BurdaStyle Sleeveless Blouse

Above: BurdaStyle Asymetrical Blouse

Above: McCalls Pattern M6433

Above: McCalls Pattern M6439

Above Jasmine blouse from Colette patterns

Above Vogue V1256. Check out the fall lookbook.

Above: Vogue V8776

Above: Vogue V1273 I love the pleats on this dress. It makes the classic shape more interesting.

Friday Faves - September 30

2011-09-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Font: Wisdom Script from Lost Type Co-op

New Fall Knitting Patterns

Lingerie socks from Knitty Fall 2011

Dunes shawl from Knitty Fall 2011

Above from Vogue Knitting Fall 2011

Above Derica cardigan from Chic Knits

Above Anne cardigan from Twist Collective

More knitting inspiration:
Rebecca Magazine (so fun!)
Brooklyn Tweed Fall magazine (so gorgeous)
Twist Collective magazine (patterns and useful tips)
Interweave Knits Fall 2011 issue (love the cover!)
Knitscene Fall 2011 issue (love the Lepidoptera Cardigan featured on the cover)

M6083 Grey Black Jumper

2011-09-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

I made this jumper using a cotton fabric from the Michael Levine bulk store and McCalls pattern M6083, view D. I made a few adjustments along the way. First off, because I'm rather tall with a long torso, so I added 2 5/8 inch to the length of the bodice and 2 3/8 inch to the length of the shorts (not to the hem). It was a little tricky to get the waist situated in the right place but I fortunately had cut enough extra length to make it work.

The other big change I made from the pattern was I added a zipper at the side waist. This jumper is not easy to put on and the zipper really helps give extra wiggle room. Overall, it was really easy to make and came together quickly. I really like the pockets in the front.

Friday Faves - September 9

2011-09-09T15:10:00.000-07:00

Fonts:
Above: Spiderlegs from My Fonts

Round up of Open Source Typography sites via The League of Movable Type

My new favorite site for vintage inspired fonts is Lost Type.

Crafting:
Watermark Tee by Sweet Verbana on Ucreate
This tutorial shows you how to batik resist dye using elmers glue.

Doily Cupcake Garland from Elizabeth Anne Designs

Cereal Box Organizers from Martha Stewart

Braided Doormat from Martha Stewart

Free download Sticky Tape Photoshop Textures and Polaroid Frames from Fuzzimo

Free download Greeting Card printables from Ali Edwards blog

Knitting:
A whole bunch of free patterns from Vogue Knitting here including sock patterns and 5 from Tilli Thomas. Also check out this cool Stacked I-Cord Cowl.

Lots of socks and lace in the Fall issue of Knitty

More inspiration:
Check out the first issue of Mache Magazine.

Sea Blue Bead and Chain Necklace

2011-08-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

This necklace was an extended work in progress. It started with a short chain and a couple of strings of seed beads, teal and clear. Then I added a strip of lavender leather. Still, I was bored by it and started playing around with separating the strings to make a longer necklace.
To complete it, I added a few big beads on the lavender leather, a long string of seed beads all the way around and finally one more chain. It's a little funky and I haven't worn it yet. Maybe I'll debut it this weekend.

Knitted Cotton Baby Mocassins

2011-08-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

I knit these baby moccasins for my newborn niece. Her dad (my brother) loves wearing moccasins and these are great little mock-moccasins. I used this pattern from the purl bee. The yarn is Cotton Club by Loops & Threads/Michaels. I wanted to use cotton because it's easy to wash and friendly to my wool sensitive skin. This brand had the perfect colorways.
The yarn I chose was also thicker in weight than the pattern which worked ok for me because big feet run in my family and I'd hate for the mocs to not fit. I used a size 4 needle for the ribbing and size 7 for the rest.The trickiest part was picking up stitches for the bottom of the foot. You will cast on fewer stitches than there are rows. I recommend doing the embroidery before the bottom of the foot. It will be easier to handle then. Overall, these moccasins are adorable. I love them and would consider making another pair.

Weekend Photos

2011-08-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

Thursday Thriftday - August 11

2011-08-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

Red Velvet Fabric
Purchased Assistance League of Glendale, $1

New things

2011-08-09T22:26:00.001-07:00

I ventured downtown to the Fashion District this weekend and picked up some new fabrics and beads.

Thursday Thriftday - August 4

2011-08-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

Gold Leaf Bracelet
Purchased Glendale Goodwill, about $4

Friday Faves - July 29

2011-07-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Font: Daisy on My Fonts

I'm loving crocheted granny squares and itching to start a project.
Here's some great crochet on the internet:

Patterns
From Purl Bee: Joelle's Giant Granny Square Blanket (shown above, photo from Purl Bee), Granny Stripe Blanket, Granny Square Slippers
Phazelia's laptop case (free pattern on Ravelry)
Vintage Crochet Patterns on GrandmothersPatternBook.com (list of patterns here)

More granny square awesomeness:
Granny Square Wreck Room
F**k Yeah Granny Square tumblr blog
Rainbow pile of crochet blankets (you must look)
Granny Square Art on Design*Sponge

Crafting:
Eco-Dyeing from BurdaStyle
Felt Flower Charms from Purl Bee

Thursday Thriftday - July 28

2011-07-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

Gold Flower Pin
Purchased Glendale Goodwill, about $3

Thursday Thriftday - July 21

2011-07-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

Gold Clutch
Purchased at a thrift store in Santa Barbara, $1

White Braided Bead Necklace

2011-07-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

I made this necklace using a tutorial by Eighteenth Century Agrarian Business. I followed the tutorial exactly and it turned out great. The tutorial was very easy to follow and very well done. I love the necklace and would make it again in a heartbeat were it not so wonderfully distinctive.

Tutorial - Turn a Necklace into a Twisted Bracelet

2011-07-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

How to turn almost any old necklace into a twisted bracelet.
With clasp fastened on your necklace, stretch it out to make 2 parallel lines.
Twist it up by putting a finger at each end and giving it a twirl.
Fold in half.Twist some more, keeping a loop at each end.
Run a chain (or single strand beaded necklace with clasp) through the loops. Slide the twisted necklace around your wrist, wrap the chain around until snug and fasten.

Forest Beads Necklace

2011-07-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

I've become nearly obsessed with beading recently. This necklace is the first in the series of beaded necklaces this summer.
It's made using four strings of beads (one each of dark green, copper, brown and white) and a length of chain all of equal lengths.

Summer Weekend in Photos

2011-07-17T23:17:00.000-07:00

Cognoscenti Coffee, Atwater Village
A delicious cappuccino. I couldn't wait to take a sip before snapping a photo.

Renegade Craft Fair, Los Angeles
It was really fun to see everything at the fair. But there was so much amazing stuff that I felt a little overwhelmed.
Chinatown Graffiti / Wall Painting

LA river viewed from the Metro Gold Line / A little "Jewel City" notebook I received while visiting The Gap at the Glendale Galleria.
The GAP store has been beautifully (and completely) redesigned to look and function more like a designer boutique than a mall store. Gone are the bulging, messy sale racks and traditional merchandising. In its place are elegant shelves, funky cut out hangers and casually arranged art books. The transformation is shocking and I can't wait to see more.

P.S. I used my Faux Vintage Photos Tutorial to funkify these photos.

Thursday Thriftday - July 14

2011-07-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

Sequined Top

Purchased Seattle, WA, 2004, about $12

Back of Top
I need to find a reason to wear this more often.

Mottled Wave Socks

2011-07-09T10:31:00.000-07:00

I finished these socks about a week ago (previously mentioned here). The pattern, Flame Wave Socks by Ann Budd, was really straightforward and easy to follow. The only change I made was I used size 4 needles throughout (instead of starting with 5 and then changing). The fit is just fine and maybe even a little loose on top.
If I were to use this pattern again, I would choose a solid color yarn. The mottled colorway makes it very hard to see the subtle wave pattern. Overall a good sock. I have never used a stretch yarn before and wasn't sure how tight to pull it while knitting. I think I could have pulled it a little tighter. Does anyone have advice on using a stretch yarn?

Ava's Frappe Cardigan - Baby Sweater

2011-07-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

I knit this baby sweater for my soon to be born niece. I used the Raglan Baby Pattern by Students of the Subway Academy II (available for free on Ravelry). The yarn is Crystal Palace Merino Frappe. I used this yarn to make my Snowcap Cowl. I had a little more than one skein left and used all of it to make the sweater.
I deviated from this bottom up cardigan pattern a bit because I was worried about running out of yarn. I cast on 74 stitches and knit the bottom first. When I reached the armpits of the sweater I decided to continue with the yoke and leave the sleeves for last. To do this I cast on stitches for the sleeves using a provisional cast on as follows: k18, sl4 to holder (reserve for later), provisional cast on 27, k28, sl 4 to holder (reserve for later), provisional cast on 27, k18. I then continued to the neckline, skipping the buttonholes. For each sleeve, I picked up the stitches from a holder and the provisional cast on. I then knit the sleeve in the round to the cuff, ending with a garter stitch band. Repeat for second sleeve. No seaming is required, just weaving in the ends.

This is an adorable little sweater and I recommend this pattern. It was very easy to use with any yarn, as long as you're not too concerned about sizing.

Friday Faves - June 24

2011-06-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

Font:
Sybil Green – free from My Fonts

Good Reading and Looking:
The History of the Cheap Dress on the Etsy blog
The Makers Project
Joanna and Gerry Apartment Tour
Revamped IKEA Credenza from Apartment Therapy
Experiments in dyeing and Embroidery Inspiration from Whip Up

Make stuff:
Granny Circle Placemats from Purl Bee
Tote Bag from the Etsy blog
Gingham Bustier and Skirt from BurdaStyle (I seriously love this skirt)
Fabric Envelope on In Color Order
Summer Sandals on ReadyMade
DIY Shibori on Honestly...WTF
Sisal Rope Table on Sparkle

Blouse - Vogue V1247

2011-06-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

The pattern for this blouse is Vogue V1247 by Rachel Comey. I've also made the skirt (which I love). The pattern was a medium difficulty, featuring french seams and some tricky piecing. It would probably be a challenge for beginners but could be a good project for someone wanting to move to the next level. The pattern was well drafted and the hardest part was seaming the bottom front (but probably easy for anyone with quilting experience). There are no closures on the blouse and it fits loosely. I made a size 12 and I could have gone down a size. The picture above shows the blouse with the Vogue V1247 skirt. It's a nice pairing but the blouse would also work well with slim pants or tucked in like below.
The fabric is a Thai silk that I bought a thrift store. I haven't yet figured out where to wear it, probably out for dinner or drinks. The fabric seems a little too nice for work. I'm really satisfied overall. It's a gorgeous fabric and a great pattern.

Piped Edge Dress - Simplicity 2406

2011-06-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

I made this dress last week using the pattern Simplicity 2406 Cynthia Rowley. The fabric is a lightweight chambray I purchased downtown. I bought the piping at the Michael Levine bulk store, a big spool for about $3, and it worked out perfectly for this dress. You can't see the piping in the photos but it's white with a navy pinstripe diagonal stripe.
I added the piping around the sash, neckline, back slit, sleeve hem and sleeve opening. The facings are applied to the back, front and sleeves before those pieces are all put together so the piping around the neckline is not one continuous strip. It's not ideal but it worked. The sleeves are unlike any I've done before and I was nervous doing the piping. But, I followed the instructions (even when it seemed like it wouldn't work) and it did work out fine. The piping was tedious because I basted it to one side and then stitched two sides together; basically double the seams. I used a zipper foot when stitching with the piping and it worked really well.
One other change I made was to decrease the length of the slit down the center back. To do so, I just shortened the back facing (see above) and continued as instructed.
It's a pretty cute dress. The sleeves make it really unusual. Without the sash, the dress is pretty shapeless. A belt or sash is really necessary for a flattering look. I probably wouldn't make this view again but I'm thinking about making view C with the long sleeves. Depending on the fabric view C could work well as a work or casual dress.

Sunday Summer Outfit

2011-06-05T20:50:00.000-07:00

Inspired by this photo (above left) from Lucky magazine, I made this outfit last Sunday. For the skirt, I used a medium weight pinstripe cotton fabric that I purchased at the Michael Levine bulk store in downtown LA and Vogue pattern V1247. The pattern was relatively easy to put together. The one big change I made was to do an exposed zipper.To make an exposed zipper, I first basted the center back seam. Next I stitched a facing to the center back seam (on the right side of the fabric), stitching 1/8 inch on either side of the seam (see above).
After stitching, I cut the facing down the center and removed the basting stitches.
Next, I turned the facing to the wrong side and pressed flat (see above). The skirt was ready for the zipper.
The skirt is very comfortable and fits well (I cut a size 14). Instead of encasing the seams with binding, I serged the raw edges, saving a lot of time. I really love this skirt, especially the pockets, and would make it again.
For the blouse I used a lightweight sheer fabric that I bought as a remnant from the regular Michael Levine store. For the pattern, I used Simplicity 2892, view C without the bottom band. I've used this pattern a couple times before with success (View C, dress length and View D, dress length). I narrowed the shoulders and eliminated the facings. I finished the arm and neckholes with folded bias strips and a serger. I didn't do the best job on the edges because I was trying to hurry but I'm satisfied with the blouse.

Casual Afternoon Summer Outfit

2011-06-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I decided to give myself the challenge of sewing an entire outfit each day of the three day weekend. Conveniently, I did not need to do any shopping for supplies. First up, I found the above photo in a Lands End Canvas catalog and went to work to recreate the outfit.
I used chambray for the skirt and a white and grey striped knit for the tank top. For the skirt I used an old Very Easy Very Vogue skirt pattern that I bought in high school. The pattern is Vogue 9291 and I used view B with the waistband from View C. The pattern uses a lining instead of a button placket, so I extended the front edge to make one.
The skirt was very easy to put together. I used a light grey thread for the top stitching and buttonholes because I've found the light grey blends very well on denim.

At the end of the night, I decided the skirt was looking kind of boring and added patch pockets with decorative buttons.

For the tank top I used the pattern from Wendy Mullin's Sew U Home Stretch. I had planned to use a stretch denim bias tape to finish the edges but the bias tape felt too bulky for the weight of the fabric. I tried a piping and bias strips and settled on the bias strips to finish. I made a size large for the tank top and it is a little too wide at the shoulders and loose fitting. If I make it again, I went to reduce the size at the center seam.

To finish off the outfit, I found (in my stash!) a white braid and a wooden belt buckle and fashioned them into a belt.

Friday Faves - June 3

2011-06-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

Font:
Ostrich Sans from The League of Movable Type
This is an awesome font, all caps in a variety of style. And it's free!!

Sewing:
Lap Duvet from The Purl Bee (above photo from The Purl Bee)
Round Up of Skirt Tutorials at How About Orange
Wallet to Tote Tutorial on Sew Mama Sew
DIY Shift Dress from Martha Stewart
Bohemian Wrapsody Scarf from ReadyMade
Tea Towel Round Up at Whip Up

Paper:
How to Make Paper Butterflies from Martha Stewart
Vintage Spools on The Dieline

Thursday Thriftday - May 26

2011-05-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Vintage Fendi Purse

Purchased Eugene, OR, December 2010, $8

Vogue V1170 Twist Front Blouse

2011-05-25T22:51:00.001-07:00

Vogue Pattern V1170 Blouse by Rachel Comey

This pattern is pretty unusual and because I wasn't sure how it would turn out, I decided to use a fabric I've had laying around for years. I believe I bought this fabric off a sale table at a Hancock Fabrics in Seattle. The slippery nature of this fabric was the most challenging part of making this blouse. The narrow hems were so hard to do by machine that I ended up stitching them by hand.

Rather wrinkly button placket down the back. I put tracing paper under the fabric while stitching the buttonholes to help stabilize the fabric. After the buttonhole was stitched I ripped off the excess paper. This is a great trick for thin or slippery fabric that might fall down into the feed dogs.

The photo on the envelope seems to fit much tighter across the shoulders than mine. I am satisfied with the end result but wish it didn't pouf quite so much in the front. I cut a size 12 which according to the finished measurements on the the pattern should give 3-4 inches of ease. Overall, it's a fun blouse but I probably wouldn't make it again; one twist front top is enough for a girl's wardrobe. :)

WIP - Mottled Wave Socks

2011-05-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

I started knitting some new socks a week or two ago. I'm using the Flame Wave Socks pattern by Ann Budd from the book Favorite Socks. The yarn is Patons Stretch Socks. It was a little tough finding a pattern for stretch yarn. So, while the stitch pattern is not ideal for this colorway (because it is so subtle), I was too nervous to just use any old pattern.
The pattern calls for using a size 5 needle and then switch to a size 4 but I'm only using size 4. However, the leg is still a little loose on me. The pattern is easy to follow but still interesting to knit. At the rate I'm knitting I think I'll be done with the first sock by the end of the weekend.

Friday Faves - May 20

2011-05-20T19:05:00.000-07:00

Font:
Kaine from My Fonts
Sewing:
Wedding Clutch from The Purl Bee
Scallop Button Up Skirt and Oversize Jersey Top on BurdaStyle
Baby Shoe patterns from I think Sew

Fashion:
Voluminous Scarf Necklace from Anthropologie I love this scarf/necklace. I want to figure out how to make one.
Eating:
Chocolate Mousse in under 5 minutes (looks delicious!!!)

Thursday Thriftday - May 19

2011-05-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

Vintage Tennis Style Dress
Purchased Eugene, OR, a very long time ago, about $8

Moodboard - Yellow Dresses

2011-05-16T11:21:00.000-07:00

A few of my favorite yellow dresses from around the web:

Adrianna Papell Belted Linen Blend Sheath dress
Bellissima and Tuileries from Shabby Apple
Sweetheart Summer Dress from Forever 21

Thursday Thriftday - May 12

2011-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Green & Magenta plaid long-sleeve plaid dress
purchased Eugene, OR a very long time ago about $8

Bead On Wire book review

2011-05-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

I've become more interested in jewelry making lately but I don't know a lot of techniques so I decided to read up on it. After reading reviews on amazon, I decided to purchase Bead On A Wire by Sharilyn Miller.

The book has detailed instructions with photos, including things like making your own jump rings and clasps (really cool).

As the name of the book suggests, the focus is on using wire and beads (as opposed to string and beads). There is a lot of useful information even though the designs are not really my style. I'm still on the lookout for another jewelry making reference guide. Do you have any recommendations?

Moodboard - Neutral Wardrobe

2011-05-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

Beaded Ring Necklace with Mini Tutorial

2011-05-08T23:34:00.000-07:00

I made this necklace over the weekend using some beads I impulse purchased a long time ago and some extra large jump rings I bought downtown 2 weeks ago. To string the beads and connect them to the rings I used pearl cotton, making decorative knots on the jump rings.

Below are rough instructions for how I made the necklace. I made it up as I went along and I'm sure there are many ways to do this.

Beaded Ring Necklace Mini-Tutorial

Supplies:
Variety of wooden beads
4 X-large jump rings
pearl cotton in coordinating colors
small jump rings
2 bead covers
clasp

Step 1: Layout beads and jump rings in the design you want to make, with bigger beads at the bottom. This is the perfect time to determine the length you want to make your necklace.
Step 2: Cover gap in jump ring with masking tape to keep thread from falling through. Cut a long piece of pearl cotton and tie the center of it on the jump ring. Thread the two loose ends on a large blunt end needle.

Step 3: Make blanket stitches on the jump ring, alternating on the left then right side of the knot about 6 times. Finish by making a knot through the center of the large knots.
Step 4: Thread beads. Make knots on second jump ring. Run thread through beads again and knot through the knots first created. Cut thread and hide the ends inside a bead.
Step 5: Cut a second long length of thread and tie to jump ring. Make knots as before.
Step 6: Thread beads, repeating for additional sections. Step 7: For the final section, thread a bead cap on the end. Make a knot, thread a jump ring and run thread back through beads. Knot and trim thread.

Step 8: On one end make a small chain with jump rings and on the other add a clasp.
All done! The project was really fun to do and fairly easy taking only an hour or two to complete.

Friday Faves - May 6

2011-05-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

Makalu funny flower font from My Fonts

Chunky Beaded Necklaces from Anthropologie

(Sculptural Stack Necklace above left, Sweetheart Bib Necklace above right)

Stitch Magic by Alison Reid reviewed by Purl Bee

Pom Pom Vines from Once Wed (via craftzine)

Free Pattern Month at Grosgrain!

Canaletto Cowl free pattern from Tricksy Knitter

Pop-Up Mother's Day Card from Martha Stewart

Thursday Thriftday - May 5

2011-05-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Long-sleeve tulip print dress
Purchased Glendale, CA, about $7I love the fit of this dress. The shoulders are well cut and the elastic waist makes it extra flattering.

Thursday Thriftday - April 21

2011-04-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Little Green Suede Tennis Shoes

Purchased December 2010, Eugene, OR Goodwill $7

Snowcap Cowl

2011-04-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

Snowcap Cowl
Pattern: Tuesday Night Cowl by Susan Lawrence
Yarn: Merino Frappe from Crystal Palace Yarns

This was a fun and easy pattern, mostly stockinette with big cables every so often. I used the aran weight pattern and it's sized really nicely.

Moodboard - Jeweled Neckline

2011-04-18T10:01:00.000-07:00

DIY it:
How to Embellish Garments with Studs from Threads Magazine

Sequin Top from Emerging Thoughts
Safety Pin Tank from PS I made this

Or make an accessory to temporarily transform any outfit:
Rhinestone Bib Necklace from The Happy Circus on love stitched
Fancy Shoulder Pads from ...Love Maegan

Friday Faves - April 15

2011-04-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

Font: Cheap Pine from MyFonts

Paper Craft:
DIY Flower Paper Corsages from Oh Happy Day

Sewing:
Father's Day Tie from the purl bee
Oversize Jersey Top from BurdaStyle
Osoberry bag pattern on whipup.net

Knitting:
T-shirt sweater with pocket from DROPS studio
Striped Cotton Cowl from Purl Bee
Make up your mind Racerback tank from Knitty.com's latest issue

Thursday Thriftday - April 14

2011-04-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Vintage Seafoam Green sweater
Purchased Eugene, OR Goodwill, about $6

Paper Covered Magazine Files

2011-04-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

IKEA magazine files before

After covering with scrap-booking paper. Such a transformation! I love it. And here's a secret: the paper doesn't wrap all the way around. It covers the front and then as much as it can on the sides.

The paper really brightens this corner of the room and did not take long to complete. I used craft glue to attach the paper and an exacto blade to remove excess paper.

Moodboard – All-American Style

2011-04-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

If you feel like shopping or need some classic inspiration, here are some of my favorites:
Lands' End Canvas
J.Crew
Steven Alan
Tommy Hilfiger

Or if you feel like sewing:
Simplicity 2215 by Cynthia Rowley
Simplicity 2246 by Lisette
Ruby shorts or Shirt Dress #111 from BurdaStyle

Friday Faves - April 8

2011-04-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Font:

Delight Script from MyFonts.com

Sewing:
Jersey Knit Bracelets from V and Co. (via craftzine)
Circle Scarf and Cowl Neck Duster Vest from PS I made this
3-way skirt dress tutorial from Ruffles and Stuff

Crafting:
Paper Marquee Letter Lamp from Design*Sponge
ipad clutch and Chain earrings from PS I made this
Doodle Easter Eggs from Alisa Burke
Simple Drawstring Coin Purse from Between the Lines
Box Braid Necklace from Honestly...wtf

Thursday Thriftday - April 7

2011-04-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

80s-era Short-sleeve dress
The baggy shape of this dress actually looks good when belted
Purchased Los Angeles, CA about $5

Moodboard – Grecian Dresses

2011-04-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

A classic since ancient times – the grecian dress.

Sewing Tutorials:
How to Make a Grecian Dress from ehow.com
Easy Draped Maxi Dress from SewPetiteGal
One Seam Convertible Dress from rostitchery
Multi-Strap Dress (video tutorial) from Wonder How-To

Friday Faves - Apr 1

2011-04-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

Knitting:
Sally Cardigan from CRAFT pattern podcast designed by Nikol Lohr

Sewing:
4/2010 Jersey dress with drawstring waist from BurdaStyle (pictured above, photo from BurdaStyle)
Oil Cloth Storage Bin from design*sponge
Art Supply Pouch and Everest (the ultimate knitting needle organizer) both from whipup.net

Crafting:
Brighter Batik Table Linens from Martha Stewart
Paper Dogwood Flowers from Martha Stewart
Creative Ways to use a Disposable Camera from Photojojo

Thursday Thriftday - Mar 31

2011-03-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

80s era little black dress
high neck front with slit, draped scoop back
Purchased Los Angeles, CA, about $8

Lavender Shire Silk Drop Stitch Shawl

2011-03-29T12:53:00.000-07:00

I made this shawl using stitch pattern Number 26 Dropped Stitches from Reversible Knitting: 50 Brand-New, Groundbreaking Stitch Patterns by Lynne Barr. I cast-on 69 stitches (pattern repeat of 7) and just kept knitting until I was out of yarn. The pattern was easy but still really fun and interesting to do. Mine looks looser than the swatch in the book and is probably due to the needle size (which I don't remember, maybe size 8). I finished knitting weeks ago but only blocked it and wove in the ends this last week. I really love how it's turned out.

On Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/projects/LulaLouise/lavender-shire-shawl

Bias Stripe Top with Braids

2011-03-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

I made this top last month using fabric I purchased at a thrift store. It's a lightweight synthetic and while I had planned to use it as a fun lining material, it was perfect for this bias cut stripe top. I adapted a Simplicity 2599 to incorporate a bias cut and an inset triangle in the front. I've used this pattern once before.I finished the armholes and neckline with bias binding and added braided fabric around the neckline.To make the braids I made bias cut tubes and braided them together. The larger braids are made with larger tubes. I then sewed the braids on by hand to the top. I would have loved to do it by machine but couldn't figure out a way to make it invisible. Although it took quite a while sew on the braids, I'm really happy with the top.

Friday Faves - Mar 25

2011-03-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Font
Organically from My Fonts

Knitting
Bunny Hop knitted bunnies and Sparrow's Nest (with eggs) on Purl Bee
from Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2011 (photos from Vogue Knitting)

Crafting
Modern Cross Stitch from Martha Stewart
Felted Knitting Basket from Martha Stewart
Paper Scrap Light from Design*Sponge

Striped dresses

It's become kind of a fashion obsession. I especially love these orange/yellow/blue stripes.
Cooperative Tank Dress from Urban Outfitters (photo from Urban Outfitters)

Simone Stripe Dress from Marc Jacobs (photo from Saks Fifth Avenue)

Thursday Thriftday - Mar 24

2011-03-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

Tony Lama cowboy boots, $7.50
Value Village, Tri-Cities, WA
Best buy ever! I LOVE these boots. They are comfortable and already worn in from country living. If I could keep only one pair of my shoes for the rest of my life, I would choose these.

Friday Faves - Mar 18

2011-03-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

Font:

Banda from Typedepot (Regular weight is free!)
The first "semi-serif" I've ever encountered.

Crafting:
Felt Ball Trivet from Purl Bee

Knitting (fair isle theme):
Baby Girl Fair Isle Cardigan from Purl Bee
Oranje cardigan from Knitty (free pattern)

Sewing (ruffles and bows):
Ruffle Tutorial from BurdaStyle
02/2011 Stretch Pencil Skirt #103A pattern from BurdaStyle
Flirty Apron on WhipUp.net (free pattern)
Clara Bow Pin Tutorial from Colette Patterns
Simplicity pattern 2250 by Cynthia Rowley

Thursday Thriftday - Mar 17

2011-03-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

Books, purchased 1/2 off Salvation Army, Pasadena, CA

Thursday Thriftday - Mar 10

2011-03-10T10:06:00.000-08:00

Silk Dotted Shirt

Purchased Los Angeles, CA

Friday Faves - Mar 3

2011-03-04T08:23:00.000-08:00

Font: Sniglet from The League of Movable Type

Sewing:
New patterns from Burda Style
(shown above, photos from Burda Style)
01/2011 Long Sleeve Dress #104
01/2011 Short-Sleeve Blouse #102

Knitting:
Round up of t-shirt sweaters on whipup.net

Baggy Wave Sweater from Pickles (free pattern!)

T-shirt Sweater No. N-130 from Drops

Short Sleeve Cardigan No. L-103 from Drops

Cooking:
Homemade Cadbury Cream Eggs on Instructables

Design:
50 and 50 project
State Motto designs – so cool!

Shopping:
Whiskey and Tobacco perfumes from Urban Outfitters
I'd rather smell like whiskey than a bouquet of roses any day of the week.

Thursday Thriftday - Mar 3

2011-03-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

Possibly my favorite shirt ever!
Purchased in Eugene, Or, Goodwill.

Thursday Thriftday - Feb 24

2011-02-24T10:22:00.000-08:00

Florescent color, dropped waist knit dress
Purchased years ago in Eugene, OR