So… I redeemed somewhat the potato sack that eventuated from the first run. It was at the start too big. And now looking at the pattern I’m not super happy with the choice. I wanted a more scooped neckline with back to match – more flattering. Speaking of which the belt bit is NOT flattering at all (yes this photo disguises a bit, looks passable here) it needs to be narrower and unfortunately this colour was the only contrasting colour I had – which I originally bought NOT for a belt at all but from some decorative thing at the front. AND… the bits around the sleeves that are kind of odd – well they are to disguise the actual sleeves that are TOO WIDE. I skipped the interfacing because I hadn’t bought any and the inside of the sleeves in the pattern was a mystery so I made it up – or followed as closely as I could.

So, it does all look a bit handmade, but it is wearable. Whether I will wear it is to be seen.

I did learn how to do buttons & buttonholes with my sewing machine and I did get back in the zone of how to read a pattern. And. It was fun.

Something quick to actually get things happening. Made this scarf. It worked fairly well – I’ve never ‘felted’ before. I.e. buy old woolen jumpers from the op-shop and then wash them in a hot cycle to shrink them… not sure if they shrunk quite as much as they should have but I don’t have a dryer to get them that extra step. Cut circles (or whatever) and sew them zig-zag all the way down. Next time I think I’ll make the scarf a tad longer, this used 30 circular pieces in total. 10 of each colour. I also have navy blue waiting to be used and there is STACKS of leftover material. I could also possibly be a tad neater on my circle cutting but no harm in smoothing things out a bit later. I just wanted to make something. And I have. Pretty happy with the effort.

*Next time triangles???

(Definitely assisted by my bargain jacket purchase… sadly not so eco friendly. But do love 50% off. One day I’ll work out how to sew jackets. Slowly, slowly)

Did I mention that I got a sewing machine for my birthday? Well I did and I finally have a chance to use it.

I have two initial projects in mind. My lovely mother got me this ‘Sew Green’ book for my birthday and I intend to felt some old wool jumpers and make a scarf from circular/oval sections of felted wool. And I also went and got a fairly basic dress pattern and some super cheap cotton to try that out too.

I’ve had bouts of sewing-machine related creativity throughout my life… but I can probably still claim novice when it comes down to it.

Projects/Results to follow!

I love any chance to take photo of willing subjects… it’s SO fun. And am thinking I should investigate if there are any photography classes around, that will make me get out there a bit more and try some new things. This photo is from a rather extensive lot I took of my lovely cousin who is due in April.

I would share more but she hasn’t seen them all yet and it is only fair.

The brainchild of Jay Jeffries – is a book called Awaken the Spirit – The Sacred Texts is finally online (At least in sample chapter form).

I’ve worked on the book design and a number of very talented artists and photographers have contributed work. I think the project is well worth supporting in any way possible.

You can view the sample chapter Awaken the Spirit – The Sacred Texts of Jesus, read more about the project, and sign the petition to get it published.