tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54399151398012507862024-03-12T19:31:41.393-07:00Sew Inspired By BabyStephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-34395164311184577742012-02-23T15:47:00.002-08:002012-02-23T15:47:46.504-08:00Pinterest CreativityI've been pinning like crazy on <a href="http://pinterest.com/stephaniehanes/">Pinterest</a> for several months now and finally decided today was the day to do some creating. It felt so good to be sewing again!<br />
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Since our little man has shown interest in going on the potty, I decided to try out <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/177892254001078658/">this tutorial</a> for cloth training pants. I love how easy it was to make and I have a TON of knit fabric to make more. Plus, it's way more fun to make your own and feel the satisfaction of seeing the finished product. Hopefully I find more motivation again soon to make some more!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/6924266009/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cloth Training Pants by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Cloth Training Pants" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6924266009_9f81be309a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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When that was finished, I decided to include the kids in a little creativity by having them pick out some fabric to make their own <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/177892254001078905/">cloth monster friends. </a>I'm all out of fiber fill, but just now I was thinking it would be fun to make them like a bean bag by adding some whole flax seeds instead.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/6778174110/" title="Re-Re Monster by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Re-Re Monster" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6778174110_5e5f641076.jpg" width="333" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/6778181006/" title="Yeddo Monster by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Yeddo Monster" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/6778181006_27d92f04d9.jpg" width="333" /></a> </div>
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I'm not completely satisfied with the fabric choices, but the kids love them and they'll be fun to take along to bike races this summer. Because if they get too dirty or lost we can always make a new one! I'm also loving this idea to make for baby shower gifts. So, if you have a baby coming soon, be ready to introduce your little one to a one of a kind handmade monster friend.</div>
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Tomorrow, my sister is coming for a visit and I'm hoping to create some of <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/177892254000643388/">these</a> <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/177892254000650290/">cute</a> <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/177892254000650275/">projects</a> while she is here - after a trip to the fabric store, of course!<br />
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I'm also going to be making a handmade wrap style baby carrier for a friend of mine and I'll be sure to share a tutorial on how to make your own. They are super easy and my favorite babywearing carrier. I already have three different ones for our new little one to enjoy and I am thinking of making another one...or two. You can never have too many, because they are so easy to store one in each vehicle and have a few spares when the inevitable newborn mess occurs. Plus, I can leave one at my mom's house in case we forget to bring a baby carrier when we visit. <br />
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And, of course, I have a LOT of ideas to sew some fun things for our new little one. I know I already have plenty, since this is our third, but it's still fun to create one of a kind handmade things just for the new baby. Plus, I have lots of sewing ideas to help my sister prepare for her first. I can't wait to be an aunt again!Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-52054614184310647552010-12-02T12:42:00.000-08:002010-12-02T12:42:17.284-08:00Thanksgiving AppliqueMost of the sewing I've done lately has been in secret, because I'm busy making Christmas gifts. But, I was excited to find some time to sew up some quick and super cute Thanksgiving outfits for my little ones. For Valerie's dress, I started a plain long-sleeved t-shirt from Walmart. I used some knit fabric to add a skirt and then made ruffles with three pieces of coordinating cotton fabric. For the applique, I made my own pattern and used heat n bond, an iron, and a zigzag stitch. Then, I used some of the extra fabric to make a little hair clippie to match. For Almanzo's shirt, I used another long-sleeved t-shirt from Walmart, the same applique technique, and my own pumpkin pattern. I love how easy and fun it is to turn a plain t-shirt into a cute and unique outfit!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5227327256/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Happy Turkey Day! by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Happy Turkey Day!" height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5227327256_dcfeb3257c.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5227331872/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Happy Turkey Day! by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Happy Turkey Day!" height="500" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5227331872_e3b1e91eeb.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5227322698/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Thanksgiving hair clippie by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Thanksgiving hair clippie" height="333" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5227322698_d59a04a735.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5221461649/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Little Pumpkin by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Little Pumpkin" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/5221461649_1259a17aaa.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-1552317804133362682010-10-26T13:36:00.000-07:002010-10-26T13:36:23.876-07:00Fleece LongiesToday, I finally got around to sewing two more pairs of fleece longies for Sweet Pea. Fleece longies are a great diaper cover alternative for the winter and also make cute pajama pants. I'm hoping to sew a few more pairs of these for Sweet Pea, so we can use them when she decides to start potty training. So far, every time I've asked her if she wants to go on the potty, she says, "No!", but she always tells me when she has "poo". I have several Gerber training pants my aunt Sheri gave us and plan to use those with fleece longies instead of Pull-Ups, because it's more like underwear and will be easy for her to pull on and off by herself. Plus, since I use cloth diapers already, I hate the thought of buying disposable training pants, because it seems to defeat the purpose of potty training. For the first pair of fleece longies, I sewed a zigzag stitch along the edge of each leg cuff and for the second pair I just folded them over and sewed a straight stitch hem. I'm not sure which style I like best.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5118828340/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Fleece Longies #1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Fleece Longies #1" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/5118828340_ac5156684d.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5118232713/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Fleece Longies #2 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Fleece Longies #2" height="500" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/5118232713_daa8538ac1.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-3082593293706803062010-10-01T13:25:00.000-07:002010-10-01T13:25:02.031-07:00Owl Party Favors<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/5042629188/" title="Owl Party Favors by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Owl Party Favors" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/5042629188_31f0b138c8.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I was watching the first episode of season 2 of <a href="http://www.thediydish.com/2010/09/the-diy-dish-season2-episode1-look-whooos-back/">The DIY Dish</a> a few weeks ago and decided right then that owls would be the theme for Almanzo's first birthday. I couldn't wait to find some cute fabric and sew up some of these cute little owls for party favors. I picked out three coordinating fabrics for his birthday banner (including one with owls!) and decided to match the stuffed owls to the banner. I also found some minky fabric in the remnant fabric bin and, since I already had two other coordinating colors of minky fabric from previous fabric store trips, I decided to use the minky fabric for the base of the owl and the polka dot fabric to match the birthday banner for the wings. I had some felt in my fabric stash, so I used that for the eyes and the beak. I love the frayed look of the wings and the soft minky fabric. I'm planning on making enough of these little cuties to give as party favors to all the little ones that come to his birthday party. And I'm also going to use some coordinating paper to make owls to use as decorations. Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-70167840101114660122010-09-28T13:20:00.000-07:002010-09-28T13:20:29.365-07:00Birthday Shirts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/TKJNtGoO_aI/AAAAAAAAC58/XsolT5qVCeE/s1600/birthday+shirts+%231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/TKJNtGoO_aI/AAAAAAAAC58/XsolT5qVCeE/s400/birthday+shirts+%231.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Just a little something I whipped up yesterday to celebrate our little man's birthday. I'm doing an owl theme for his birthday and, since I was making one for him, I just had to make a number 2 shirt for his big sister. I ran out of fusible web, so I just decided to let the edges fray and do a regular straight stitch. They turned out really cute after washing them. Now I just have to work on the owl party favors and birthday banner. I can hardly believe he's going to be ONE soon...somebody please SLOW down time!Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-38733274194473274772010-08-04T13:09:00.000-07:002010-08-04T13:09:39.415-07:00Wordless Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4861216002/" title="Toddler Bibs 1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Toddler Bibs 1" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4861216002_a2da147007.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4860609081/" title="Toddler Bibs 3 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Toddler Bibs 3" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4860609081_db01ee39bf.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4861235790/" title="Toddler Bibs 4 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Toddler Bibs 4" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4861235790_77c377b384.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4861241116/" title="Toddler Bibs 5 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Toddler Bibs 5" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4861241116_af0c934505.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
(Note: I made these toddler bibs using <a href="http://freshpoppydesign.blogspot.com/2010/07/meet-my-friend-sara.html">this</a> pattern, but hemmed up some towel fabric from JoAnn's instead of using an actual towel.) Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-82866267764601218682010-08-03T17:40:00.000-07:002010-08-03T17:40:23.239-07:00Birthday BannerI found <a href="http://thelongestyear.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/02/birthday-linens-festive-bunting-tutorial.html">this tutorial</a> for the cutest birthday decorations before Valerie's first birthday, but didn't have the time to make one for her then. This year, I was so excited to make one for her second birthday. Of course, I waited until the day before, but it was so easy to make that I was able to start and finish it during nap time. I love how it turned out and can't wait to make one for Almanzo's birthday in October. I love the idea of having unique, handmade, and reusable party decorations. Next year, my plan is to add handmade tablecloths and napkins to Valerie's birthday decorations and maybe another banner (which reminds me that I better get some more of the fabric I used so everything will match).<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4858178589/" title="Birthday Banner 2 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Birthday Banner 2" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4858178589_989d559088.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4858170827/" title="Birthday Banner 1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Birthday Banner 1" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4858170827_77468ca29e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-67025363559751383362010-07-25T13:18:00.000-07:002010-07-25T13:18:32.738-07:00NICU BlanketsIn lieu of buying a gift for Valerie's birthday this year (which she doesn't really need, because she is very blessed with plenty), I decided to use my sewing skills and all the fleece and flannel fabric I've accumulated to sew some blankets for the NICU.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4828168896/" title="NICU Blankets #2 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="NICU Blankets #2" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4828168896_323b6f8837.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
Since both my children spent their first week of life in the wonderful care of the NICU doctors and nurses, it is a very special place to us. When Almanzo was in the NICU, I gave the nurses several blankets I had made him to cuddle up with and so he would have a piece of me there when I wasn't. The nurses commented on how soft and cute his blankets were and how they wished they had more blankets like that instead of the boring receiving blankets that were beginning to show their wear.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4827568733/" title="NICU Blankets #3 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="NICU Blankets #3" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4827568733_51909d8377.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
The blankets I made are approximately 15" x 15" squares with a little ribbon tag that were turned-and-topstitched. I added another little tag to each blanket with these words written on it:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4828150686/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="NICU Blankets #1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="NICU Blankets #1" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4828150686_b81d15be4a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
We delivered these as a family on Valerie's birthday. We are so thankful for all they have done...and, even more so, we are so thankful for God's protection and healing. What a precious blessing these little ones are!Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-2856645641449813792010-07-23T19:54:00.000-07:002010-07-23T19:54:30.939-07:00Summer PajamasMy Sweet Pea has been slowly outgrowing all of her pajamas, which is actually a good thing since they were all long sleeve and too hot for the summer. I decided to try making some pajamas, since I already know how to make pants/shorts by using another pair of pants/shorts as the pattern. For the top, I just traced the outline of another top for the sizing and made it my own pattern. I used a cotton knit fabric that happened to be on sale a few weeks ago. I like how it turned out, but I'm going to try to tweak my patterns a little to make a better fit the next time. (Also, please excuse the crazy-bed-head-hair and uncooperative-toddler-frown in that last picture. LOL!)<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4822239369/" title="Summer Pajamas #1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Summer Pajamas #1" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4136/4822239369_d7fbecc4c6.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4822263047/" title="Summer Pajamas #1, top by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Summer Pajamas #1, top" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4095/4822263047_a21d1e79cb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4822266937/" title="Summer Pajamas #1, bottom by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Summer Pajamas #1, bottom" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4822266937_d196cdabab.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4822274031/" title="Summer Pajamas #1, modeled by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Summer Pajamas #1, modeled" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4822274031_051ea8583a.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-43321990639350041472010-07-14T14:18:00.000-07:002010-07-14T14:18:11.494-07:00Wordless Wednesday - Birthday Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4794623390/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="2nd Birthday Dress by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="2nd Birthday Dress" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4794623390_9fb684bb5d.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4794615878/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="2nd Birthday Dress - closeup of sleeves & neckline by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="2nd Birthday Dress - closeup of sleeves & neckline" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4794615878_cddac6bc36.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4793978915/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="2nd Birthday Dress - closeup of pockets and ruffle by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="2nd Birthday Dress - closeup of pockets and ruffle" height="333" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4793978915_4df1749e3f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-57790378367391576002010-06-28T15:40:00.000-07:002010-06-28T15:40:35.320-07:00Prairie GirlI finally had some time today during a wonderfully long nap time to sew a peasant dress and bonnet for my Sweet Pea. I used <a href="http://www.indietutes.blogspot.com/2007/07/peasant-blouse.html">this pattern</a> for a peasant blouse and added a few inches to make it a dress. The pattern was so easy though that I'm already planning my next projects. I might even make some modifications to add a pocket or a ruffle on the bottom and maybe even an apron to complete the prairie girl look.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4743407163/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Prairie Girl 1 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Prairie Girl 1" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4743407163_8edf4e143f.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
I bought <a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/27811235">this pattern</a> off of Etsy to make a bonnet and made the 12-24 month size. I forgot to add a 1/4" seam when cutting it out and should have made the rim wider so it was more of a prairie bonnet than baby bonnet. It was obviously a little small, but V loved it so much she wouldn't let me take it off. Also, my stitching was a little crazy, since it was my first time making the pattern and it took a lot longer to make than the dress. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4743437949/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Prairie Girl 4 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Prairie Girl 4" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4743437949_7f52af1a34.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4743419921/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Prairie Girl 2 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Prairie Girl 2" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4743419921_54d7eea981.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hanesfamilychronicles/4744064882/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Prairie Girl 3 by StephanieHanes, on Flickr"><img alt="Prairie Girl 3" height="500" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4098/4744064882_7df3749a0d.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
Tomorrow, I'm hoping to use the same pattern to make a fourth of July dress out of some cute patriotic fabric I bought last week and then I will make another bonnet and peasant dress set from some super cute "prairie-esque" fabric I found. That is...if the kids both decide to take wonderfully long naps again... Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-41787440961857883892010-05-19T13:48:00.000-07:002010-05-19T13:48:54.710-07:00NEW In My Etsy Shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_RMsgO1cVI/AAAAAAAACy4/Kz6BEwsZaOI/s1600/05-11-10+002c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_RMsgO1cVI/AAAAAAAACy4/Kz6BEwsZaOI/s400/05-11-10+002c.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47569241/spring-flowers-peek-a-boo-nursing-cover">Spring Flowers Peek-A-Boo Nursing Cover, $20 </a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_RNdFtcrsI/AAAAAAAACzA/lYZuMXUTI30/s1600/05-12-10+006c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_RNdFtcrsI/AAAAAAAACzA/lYZuMXUTI30/s400/05-12-10+006c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_ROFUufkdI/AAAAAAAACzI/D_m2FVpzwa4/s1600/Veronica%26Alivia+1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S_ROFUufkdI/AAAAAAAACzI/D_m2FVpzwa4/s400/Veronica%26Alivia+1b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (modeled by my sweet friend, <a href="http://www.verandthegirls.blogspot.com/">Veronica</a>, and her little Alivia)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47565667/purple-floral-wrap-style-carrier">Purple Floral Wrap Style Carrier, $35</a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-87091328206845295942010-05-12T13:38:00.000-07:002010-05-12T13:40:46.803-07:00Coaster/Hot Pad/Placemat Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S-sRmPtvufI/AAAAAAAACxA/vLq6svKgp10/s1600/05-11-10+026b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S-sRmPtvufI/AAAAAAAACxA/vLq6svKgp10/s400/05-11-10+026b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>My friend, Karen, taught me this really simple way to use up fabric scraps and create some unique handmade gifts. Her idea was to make coasters, but I also used the same concept to make a matching hot pad and placemat set. This is a great beginner sewing project too, because it requires very little sewing. For my tutorial, I made a set of 8 coasters.<br />
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<b>Supplies:</b><br />
<ul><li>Fabric scraps cut into 5" squares (1 for the bottom, 4 for the top, and one for the middle - I used a piece of flannel for the middle, because it's a little sturdier)</li>
<li>Thread (You can choose whatever color thread you want to match your fabric or just use a plain white or black thread.)</li>
<li>Iron & Ironing Board</li>
</ul><br />
<b>Directions: </b><br />
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Isn't that super easy? It makes a quick and cute gift idea, especially with the limited time that comes with having two little ones under two. I'd love to see your own version of this tutorial, so please send pictures so I can share some them here!Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-26440481719507753662010-05-05T17:56:00.000-07:002010-05-05T17:56:05.265-07:00Auction QuiltMy friend, Kelli, started a wonderful ministry at our church called Mom Time. It's a time for stay at home moms like me to get together to fellowship and encourage each other as moms and wives. We meet the first and third Thursday of every month. On the first Thursday of every month, we have several speakers (women from our church) come and teach about topics such as marriage, children's health, and playing with our kids. We decided we wanted to spend some of our time learning to quilt too, so we could donate a quilt to the Trinity Baptist School auction (a ministry of our church). Kathy agreed to give us quilting lessons and found the cutest pattern for a quilt. We spent months working on it along with the help of Kelli's sister-in-law, Linda, and then Kathy and her mom graciously quilted it together for us before revealing the finished product at the auction.<br />
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Thank you, Kathy and Linda for all your time and effort to help us finish this quilt!<br />
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I also decided to donate two baskets to the auction from my Etsy shop and was frantically working on finishing them just two weeks before the auction. I love how they turned out and am already dreaming up ideas for next year's auction. <br />
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PS - Sorry for the blurriness of the pictures; they were taken back in January with our old camera.Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-73585419214570753832010-04-30T15:25:00.000-07:002010-04-30T15:25:09.255-07:00H Block Quilt Reveal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9tWzcQ4fzI/AAAAAAAACpI/xiuMc1Dpk2I/s1600/04-30-10+009c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9tWzcQ4fzI/AAAAAAAACpI/xiuMc1Dpk2I/s400/04-30-10+009c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9tYP6nYu1I/AAAAAAAACpg/j3KBC6agGQ4/s1600/04-30-10+006c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9tYP6nYu1I/AAAAAAAACpg/j3KBC6agGQ4/s400/04-30-10+006c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-18228499926380779102010-04-30T12:56:00.000-07:002010-04-30T12:56:51.966-07:00A Sew Inspired WinnerThanks to all who have decided to "follow" my new blog and entered in my giveaway! Without further ado, the winner is...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>#2</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> <a href="http://thesearsfamily-melissa.blogspot.com/">Melissa</a></b></span></div><br />
Congratulations Melissa! Please email me your address and I'll be sure to get your prize in the mail. Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-37503776599068409732010-04-28T06:34:00.000-07:002010-04-28T06:35:22.910-07:00Close Enough To Kiss<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9g3cupaHqI/AAAAAAAACo0/jiEpSN7Tc_w/s1600/P4230199c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9g3cupaHqI/AAAAAAAACo0/jiEpSN7Tc_w/s400/P4230199c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
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* Stay tuned for a Baby Doll Carrier Tutorial (as soon as my sewing scissors finds its way back to me and my <a href="http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=139&modelid=14256">new camera</a> arrives). *Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-30021101501781453912010-04-23T12:40:00.000-07:002010-04-23T12:41:25.004-07:00Sneak Peak: H Block QuiltI have been wanting to make a quilt out of all the scrap fabric I have and finally found <a href="http://quilting.about.com/od/quiltpatternsprojects/ss/H-Quilt-Pattern.htm">an easy pattern</a> that I love. I just finished sewing all the H-Block squares and the next step is arranging the squares and sewing them together. I am having so much fun with the project and am already dreaming of my next <a href="http://chickpeastudio.typepad.com/chickpea_sewing_studio/2008/01/making-a-birthi.html">quilting project</a>. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9H3fz2WhQI/AAAAAAAACnw/mBhSMFQ7WD0/s1600/P4230208b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9H3fz2WhQI/AAAAAAAACnw/mBhSMFQ7WD0/s400/P4230208b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-12418660986285273992010-04-22T08:00:00.000-07:002010-04-30T12:47:19.077-07:00A Sew Inspired Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9CMGld_9FI/AAAAAAAACnA/pseU733pEkQ/s1600/SewInspiredByBabyBlog_Page_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S9CMGld_9FI/AAAAAAAACnA/pseU733pEkQ/s320/SewInspiredByBabyBlog_Page_2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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I thought it would be fun to launch this blog with my first tutorial and a giveaway too. I don't have much time to sew these days, but I still try to find time every so often. Sewing is such a stress reliever for me, because I enjoy it and it always feels good to finish something I made myself. <br />
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One of my recent projects was a flax seed hot/cold pack. My mother-in-law first introduced the idea of a hot/cold pack when she made my husband and I rice hot packs for Christmas one year. Then I discovered a little Etsy shop that sells hot/cold packs made with flax seed and I thought, "Hey, I can totally make that myself!" We always have flax seed in the house, because it's one of our favorite ingredients for yogurt parfaits or smoothies. <br />
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Flax seed has more oil content than rice and other fillers, so it holds heat longer. It also doesn't produce an odor like rice does and it can be used hot OR cold. It's a great alternative to an ice pack or heating pad for your little one's every day bumps and bruises. Remember when your mom would kiss your boo-boo and make it all better? Well, this little heart can do the same thing. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89VbqdsAEI/AAAAAAAAClw/9-ZliJ4_Phg/s1600/P2220040b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89VbqdsAEI/AAAAAAAAClw/9-ZliJ4_Phg/s400/P2220040b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 1: Gather supplies (flax seed, fabric, pencil or marker, thread, sewing machine)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89Vmx5UawI/AAAAAAAACl4/qwkAHlF05l0/s1600/P2220041b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89Vmx5UawI/AAAAAAAACl4/qwkAHlF05l0/s400/P2220041b.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89Vt1n6GXI/AAAAAAAACmA/T3yBtgdnw6E/s1600/P2220042b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89Vt1n6GXI/AAAAAAAACmA/T3yBtgdnw6E/s400/P2220042b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 2: Cut out your fabric. You can use any shape you want. If the pattern is not symmetrical, make sure to trace your fabric using opposite sides of the pattern so you have a front and back that matches up. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89V9ZtTyyI/AAAAAAAACmQ/JVIiwLr8n1E/s1600/P3020065b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89V9ZtTyyI/AAAAAAAACmQ/JVIiwLr8n1E/s400/P3020065b.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Step 3: Place fabric right sides together and sew a 1/4" seam leaving a small opening for turning it right side out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WF7xN7jI/AAAAAAAACmY/Rqwiw1RbB2U/s1600/P3020067b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WF7xN7jI/AAAAAAAACmY/Rqwiw1RbB2U/s400/P3020067b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 4: Turn fabric right side out.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WOr4UHsI/AAAAAAAACmg/cnhsYyLDES8/s1600/P3020068b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WOr4UHsI/AAAAAAAACmg/cnhsYyLDES8/s400/P3020068b.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WUgzicdI/AAAAAAAACmo/VoFQgKxy2gI/s1600/P3020069b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WUgzicdI/AAAAAAAACmo/VoFQgKxy2gI/s400/P3020069b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Step 5: Using a funnel, pour flax seed through opening of hot/cold pack slowly. If you used ground flax seed like I did, you may need to use a pencil to push the flax seed through the funnel.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WcLaxzNI/AAAAAAAACmw/azGp_zTAd7g/s1600/P3020070b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_SdqZgZasAkw/S89WcLaxzNI/AAAAAAAACmw/azGp_zTAd7g/s400/P3020070b.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Step 6: Top stitch a 1/4" seam on your hot/cold pack, making sure to sew the opening closed first. </div><br />
Ta da! So easy, right...or, should I say <i>sew</i> easy? Of course, if you don't have any idea how to sew, it's probably not. So, I've decided to give away the hot/cold pack I made. All you have to do is leave a comment here. Winner will be drawn after 10 pm CST Thursday, April 29th.<br />
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Extra entries (not required, but optional ways to increase your chances of winning): <br />
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1. Follow this blog through Google Friend Connect so you don't miss another tutorial or sewing project as I begin sharing my sewing journey.<br />
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2. Share this blog through a blog post, twitter, or facebook. <br />
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3. Grab my button (on the sidebar) and add it to your blog. <br />
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Thanks so much for visiting!<br />
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* This giveaway is now CLOSED! *Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5439915139801250786.post-9454967805654422162010-01-28T14:04:00.000-08:002010-02-19T08:59:04.668-08:00WelcomeWelcome to my new blog! As you know, I LOVE to sew. About a year ago, I decided to open up my own Etsy shop to sell some of the handmade things I've created. It's been exciting to share my creations with other moms, but my biggest joy is sewing things for my own children. I've been sharing my sewing projects off and on at my main blog, but I wanted a place that was all about sewing. Here is what you will find at Sew Inspired By Baby's blog:<br />
<ul><li>News and information about my Etsy shop</li>
<li>New items for sale in my Etsy shop</li>
<li>Sewing tips and tricks I've learned</li>
<li>Sewing project tutorials</li>
<li>Links to free patterns and other tutorials I love</li>
<li>Sewing projects I've created for my little ones</li>
</ul>You will also notice links to some of my favorite sewing blogs on the sidebar. Be sure to check them out if you need a little sewing inspiration. Also, don't forget to sign up to follow my blog, so you will be notified whenever I finish a new post. Thank you so much for joining me on my sewing adventure!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/116/7D397A8D8946A8C7E2EBD1532B87D0C6.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17208781709481476497noreply@blogger.com0