SnazzieDrawers

Top Hat PDF Pattern and Paper Party Hat Pattern

2011-11-08T10:42:00.004-06:00

So much has been happening in the Stallard house that I really haven't had much time to blog! Tim has gone back to work full time. He decided the life of an entrepreneur was anything but for him and he is happily starting a new career that thank goodness has nothing to do with accounting (his previous work experience) or sewing lol. Ava started Kinder and Addy started preschool. My kids are growing up! Time is flying by and I just can't stop the calendar from whizzing past months and months. My AddyKate turned 3 in October. We went to the zoo for her birthday since she is my little animal lover. She is longingly looking in the jaguar cage here below. I swear she communicates with animals in a way I have only seen one of my brother's do. She saw the lion in his cage and said mom he is sick. The Austin Zoo is not a zoo at all actually. It is an animal rescue. Yep she was right the lion is sick. She saw one of the monkeys in his cage and inquired, "Mom, he can't find his home?"

The following photos are pure proof I don't make all of my kids clothes!

I adore these squishy little arms and cheeks.

Two kids in school leaves me at home for hours a day by myself. What could I possibly do with all of that "free time"? The great thing is that I am working when they aren't home and not working when they are!

I have been busy designing new things. Both of these patterns are no sew!

I was a paper crafter long before I ever stitched my first dress for my noodle (Ava). It was so fun to switch gears and dive into a no sew paper craft project. Being knee deep in German glass glitter, tinsel, and making handmade crepe paper and accordion flowers (instructions for both are included in the pattern) was very relaxing! The best surprise was how much my girls loved trying these on and playing with them.

PS I made this dress below too. Maybe it will be a pattern!

Alexa Paper Party Hat Pattern

Broadway Top Hat PDF Pattern

This one was for my customers. People email me ideas for patterns a lot but nothing other than a pettiromper has been requested more than a top hat. So because I have some of the most loyal, kindest hearted people ever to count amonst my customers, I am truly happy to help them out with their craft businesses by including a pattern for the Broadway no sew hat pattern in my stash of patterns. I couldn't believe how much my girls played with these either! They LOVED putting on plays and playing dress up with the hats I made.

Hoping to make this a pattern soon too. It is Ava's Christmas dress.

Want to win a Master Collection? Tell me your favorite SnazzieDrawers' pattern in the comments below, post a photo on Facebook of what you made from that pattern and you will be entered for a chance to win all of my patterns! Please leave a comment by midnight tonight.

I will announce the winner on Facebook tomorrow morning!

xoxo,

Joy

Beginner's 3 week sewing course: Simply Stitch

2011-08-19T16:51:00.004-05:00

Don't know how to sew or are you a very new seamstress? If you would like to learn or learn more, sign up for my online sewing classes! I am going to offer a 3 week course (1 class per week) covering all of the basics of sewing. This class is for beginners. Even if you have never touched a machine in your life, but are interested in sewing, you can take this class and walk away with a working knowledge of the basics. You do not have to take all 3 classes if you don't want to! The price is $20.00 per week which includes an hour of instructor led instruction with me and PDF Studio Notes with information and topics related to the class. If you wish to sign up for all 3 weeks, I am offering a discount and you can pay $50 for all 3 weeks of class! See my website to purchase the classes that you would like and the time slot of your choice.

Each week you will receive:

* A 1 hour LIVE lesson with me via Skype! You can do it from the comfort of your own home or anywhere you have an internet connection with Skype installed. Each week, several time slots will be presented for you to choose from. Time slots will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. If none of the available time slots work with your schedule, let me know and I will do my best to see if there is another time that can be scheduled. There will be four people in each class. We will spend the first 5 minutes very briefly getting to know each other. The next 45-55 minutes will consist of instruction of planned curriculum as thorough as possible. The class will be very much interactive, which is why I am keeping the class size for each time slot at 4 students.

* A few days prior to the class, you will receive PDF Studio Notes by email with diagrams and instructions for you to review before the class to get familiar with what we will be discussing.

Week 1 Schedule: August 24th - August 30th

August 24th: Receive Joy's PDF Studio Notes via email

August 25th through August 28th: Review the notes at your leisure and at your own pace to be prepared for the Skype instructor led lesson with me.

Week 1 Class Times:

Date	Time Slots
Monday, August 29th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Tuesday, August 30th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Week 1 Curriculum:

*Tame the "Beast" aka -The Sewing Machine... learn to love your machine

*Learn the ins and outs as relative to a beginner of your machine

*Getting ready to sew!

*Insert your needle

*Wind your bobbin

*Thread your machine

*Sew a straight line

*Sew a zigzag line

*Basic sewing machine tools

*Measuring and marking tools

*Pressing tools

*All about thread

*Learn to make a basic flower

So..... what will you learn the other 2 weeks?

Week 2 Schedule: August 31st - Septembert 6th

August 31st: Receive Joy's PDF Studio Notes via email

September 1st through September 4th: Review the notes at your leisure and at your own pace to be prepared for the Skype instructor led lesson with me.

Week 2 Class Times:

Date	Time Slots
Monday, September 5th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Tuesday, September 6th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Week 2 Curriculum:

*Finish seams with or without a serger. Yes, you can make professiona lookingl, no-fray seams without a serger and without using a zigzag stitch!

*Selecting proper fabrics, needle, and thread

*Hemming a garment

*How to make ruffles

*How to make a casing

*Sew a very simple children's dress

Week 3 Schedule: September 7th - September 13th

September 7th: Receive Joy's PDF Studio Notes via email

September 8th through September 11th: Review the notes at your leisure and at your own pace to be prepared for the Skype instructor led lesson with me.

Week 3 Class Times:

Date	Time Slots
Monday, September 12th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Tuesday, September 13th	9:00 AM to 10:00 AM	12:00 PM to 1:00 PM	9:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Week 3 Curriculum:

*Problem solving on your machine while sewing.

*Perfecting your stitching and seams

*Creating more sellable or giftable items

*Taking body measurements and making custom fit pants

*Stitching curves and basting stitches

*How to make a waistband

*Learn how to sew a pair of children's ruffled pants so that they will look like something you would actually find in a boutique!

Earn 25% Commission from the SnazzieDrawers Affiliate Program

2011-08-13T10:40:00.004-05:00

I really need to get back into the swing of things and start blogging again! We had a whirlwind of a July with lots of things up in the air, but now everything has calmed down and our family is back to being settled and happy. I don't do well with Limbo! I headed to my first ever Kindergarten meeting up at the school last night and now the nervousness and anxiety over my 5 year old baby girl starting school has turned to excitement. Well, who am I kidding, the anxiety is still there! Thank goodness for a wonderful, passionate principal! I can't wait to meet her teacher in a week. What will we do without Ava around here?

I also have some other cool news. I have been tossing this idea around for about a year and didn't really know how to make it work. We have many customers who are very loyal and refer us to their friends and family. We want to give back to those that do this through their website or blog. In the past, I have just sent thank you notes and appreciation to you who have done this, but it hasn't seemed to be enough of a thank you in situations where people were sending us lots of referrals. We now are offering 25% commission!! With our new Affiliate Program, we can track your referrals and I will "cut you a check" for any referrals' purchases that come directly from your site and make a purchase. How coolio is that? I know there are many people out there that already send us lots of referrals so, I hope you have a website or blog so you can sign up to become a SnazzieDrawers Afflilate.. I am so excited to be able to give back in a way that really says "I REALLY appreciate you and your referrals!!!".

Here are the steps:

1. You really need a website or a blog to take advantage of the program. Unfortunately, Facebook doesn't like affiliate program links!

2. Visit the Affiliate Program link on my website: http://snazziedrawers.com/affiliates.htm

3. Fill out the form on this page. Required registration information is in bold. Non bolded fields are not required but optional. After you have entered your info, click the "Join Now" button. Confirm the information you entered on the next screen.

4. Now you will be redirected to Redirected to Mal's E-Commerce SnazzieDrawers Affiliate Program page. I know this is a pain, but you will need to fill in the required iinformation again. Click "Join Now".

5. Your account has been created! On the next screen you are given a Username and Password. You will also be emailed a registration confirmation that includes the username and password, so don't worry about writing it down now. At the bottom of tis page, it states "To return click here". Click on the link to return to the Affiliate Program Link on my website. (You can always return later and login at http://snazziedrawers.com/affiliates.htm).

6. From the Affiliate Program page on my website, you should see a grey box to the right hand side that says "Already in our system?

* Your Details - Here you can change the your registration information such as your name, address, email address, etc.

* View Statistics - Here you can track sales generated through your link and see how much commission you have earned per period.

* Get Links - This is the most important part! Here is where you will find the HTML code to set up the links to use on your website or blog. It is critical that you use this HTML code provided when setting up the links on your site in order to get credit for the sales you bring us. You do NOT need to know HTML coding, you just have to know how and where to copy and paste this code into your website or blog. You can use any of the text or images links that we have setup for you to use. We must note that due to the several types of websites and blog platforms out there, we are not in a position to provide techincal details as to how and where to use the HTML for your site. If you have a website or blog, you should already be somewhat familiar with imbedding code!

Here are 150 x 150 the image options that we currently offer:

Off to celebrate my mom's 70th birthday today!

SnazzieDrawers $2500 Dream Big Giveaway Winner Announced!

2011-07-26T10:48:00.007-05:00

After deleting comments that were entered twice, we had a total of 673 comments! The winner thanks to good ole' random.org was #52 which I put a screen shot of her comment above. Jamie, if you would contact me at Snazziedrawers@gmail.com so you can redeem your $2500 in prizes!!!

I don't want people who didn't win the $2500 amazing giveaway to feel like they don't have a chance at growing their business or more success. I believe that everyone holds a winning ticket for their business and it is you. Don't give up or get discouraged because you didn't win the big giveaway. Pursue what YOU WANT to do regardless of your fears or what is getting in your way.

Just go and MAKE yourself go for it.

"Life's real failure is when you do not realize how close you were to success when you

gave up." - Anonymous

"To get profit without risk, experience without danger, and reward without work, is as

impossible as it is to live without being born." - A.P. Gouthev

We will follow the winner of the giveaway and do an interview with them this week!

For those of you who didn't have the winning comment, everyone is a winner!

These businesses are offering coupon codes:

Camille Chung:

Camille Chung offers a 10% discount on all her branding packages in her Etsy shop except for the Logo Mini Packages. This special will start after the winner of Snazziedrawers giveaway is announced and will be valid for one week. Must be a full participant of the giveaway though.

In order to receive this awesome discount please contact her with your facebook name that you have entered the contest at chung@inbox.com

Designher Brands:

$50 off the $350 package and $75 off the $500 package until the last day of August 2011. Please contact her at Melissa@designherbrands.com for more details.

SnazzieDrawers:

20% off any pattern purchases Tuesday, July 26 through Wednesday July 27th at midnight central time. Coupon code is DreamBig off the website. NOT valid on rhinestones or actual products from my website.

Pink Chalk Fabrics:

DREAMBIG10 - good for 10% off your next order at Pink Chalk Fabrics. Discount code good through August 31, 2011

SnazzieDrawers Dream Big $2500 Giveaway

2011-07-18T07:43:00.011-05:00

"No dreamer is ever too small; no dream is ever too big." – Anonymous

Winning what type of giveaway would change your life the most? This is the question I asked myself when planning this giveaway. My conclusion was to give ONE lucky winner (that could mean YOU) the opportunity to start the craft business of your dreams! My business has brought me a greater appreciation of life, more confidence and self esteem, and best of all: it has given me the opportunity to be at home with my girls - a benefit without a price tag.

This is only open to BIG dreamers. This is for a special person who wants to pursue that burning desire within them to make their dreams a reality. A lot of times, one just needs some motivation, overcoming their fear, and some kind guidance or support in "going for it" and turning a hobby into a business which takes a special entrepreneural spirit, hours upon hours of hard work, and practical financial backing.

I am overwhelmed with how much we were able to recieve in donations for this giveaway. We present to you today your chance to enter. I have teamed up with some very well respected and some of the most talented members of the online community and are going to help one unbelievably lucky gal in a way that hasn't ever been done in the craft world to the tune of $2,500! Here are your sponsors and their very generous donations:

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Avalon Rose Design

Designs by Catherine Haugland of Avalon Rose Design can be seen on hundreds of websites and in several major publications such as Romantic Homes, Romantic Country, Somerset Studios Artful Blogging, and Victoria magazines.

She designed my website and blog. Visit her site to view her website templates and digitial downloads which are fabulous for crafters, photographers, and bloggers who love digital vintage bling. Catherine is donating an amazing website template to the winner! ($400 value)

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Crave Photography

Yes, you should seek professionals to do your product photography, but you will find yourself behind the lens quite often if you are blogging or are on Facebook. Andee with Crave Photography is offering a "Crave the Look" online mentoring session that will teach you to create an image that pops. ($350 value)

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Nicole Benitez Photography

Nicole is a modern stylized and urban couture photographer based in San Diego. Let her gorgeous images speak for themselves. She is offering a 1-2 product photo mini session and styling with limited copyright release. ($350 value)

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TomKat Studio

Kim Stoegbauer with the TomKat Studio has DIY printables that would work perfectly for business marketing media kits, hang tags for products, thank you notes for customers, and more. We could all use some advice from Kim who has over 28K Facebook fans! She is offering a $50 gift card to her shop and an amazing opportunity to mentor you with marketing your business over the phone for an hour consulation! ($150 value)

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Jane Porter

This talented fashion designer runs the Tangled Lair Etsy shop in her spare time. She is my "go to girl" for ribbon. She is offering $200 in surprise ribbons and trims to get your creative juices flowing!

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Camille Chung

Camille offers original, creative, logo design with a focus on branding and identity development specifically tailored to your business. She is offering a custom logo and business card design for your business. ($190 value)

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Swiss Miss Design Haus

As Creative Director of Swiss Miss Designs, Amy Wenzel is expanding her image template business to now offer photoshop actions to give your images instant enhancing. Amy is offering her new Memory Lane Photoshop Actions package to breathe fresh life into your images and workflow! ($150 value)

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Rock The Drops

Did you know there were affordable backdrops and flooring out there for your product photos? Before throwing that beautiful handmade dress on the blank wall, consider a vintage, damask background. Ali Hohn of Rock the Drops is offering one of her 42 x 60 backdrops to the winner with FREE shipping! ($110 value)

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Fabulous Fun Finds

Heather features some of the most unique, interesting, and truly amazing deals and items on her blog and attracts wonderful vendors for her giveaways. She has a tremendous social media following and is offering a free 3 month 125 x 125 advertising spot on her blog for your new business. ($105 value)

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Starlit Nest Gifts & Photo Props

Creating a photo shoot for your products takes some creative planning. You will find the cutest banners and props for your photo shoot or event at Starlit Nest Gifts. Alison Antone of Starlit Nest also sells tons of beautiful fabric which you find can here on Etsy. The winner of the giveaway will win a banner kit from Starlit Nest with mixed prints and some vintage reproduction fabrics! ($55 value)

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Designher Brands

A former stock broker, Melissa, Bolton, specializes in helping women succeed in business through website optimization, public relations and marketing. She was recently featured on Crescendoh which features Art Saves stories from all around the world. Melissa is offering FREE blog optimization for the winner's new business Blogger account. ($50 value)

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Erin Condren Stationery

This customized stationary store offers the absolute cutest custom stickers with your business name, calendars, stationary, thank you cards for customers, address labels, and more. My sister gifted me some of these a few years ago and I am hooked! I also just read about her in Redbook at the salon today! Erin has donated a $50 gift card to her store!

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Pink Chalk Fabric

From Amy Butler solids to Heather Ross prints, find your favorite modern fabrics online here at Pink Chalk Fabrics. Kathy Mack of Pink Chalk is rewarding the winner with a $50 gift card to her shop.

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Mary Not Martha

Mary, not Martha is an online Etsy shop dedicated to offering high quality supplies for millinery, couture, costume design and altered art in a vintage spirit. I just love everything she carries! The winner will receive a $50 gift card to her shop.

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Wee Sew Cute

You will find super cute fabrics for sewing up or making up those product samples for your business at Wee Sew Cute. Holly Tolbert, the owner, has offered to reward the winner with a $50 gift card to her shop.

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SnazzieDrawers

SnazzieDrawers offers royalty free boutique PDF sewing patterns and tutorials for beginners with step by step instructions on how to make your own flowers, headbands, fascinators, and couture boutique style children's clothing with a touch of vintage inspiration. Please see my website for coupon codes. We are offering our Master Pattern Collection to the winner which includes all 21 of our shop patterns. ($100 value)

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So, do you think you want a chance to win ALL of this? OK, let's get down to how you can enter to win. This is going to take a little bit of time, but won't it be worth every second if you win?

Here's what to do:

1. Visit EVERY single one of the sponsors' Facebook Fan pages. "Like" their page if you haven't already. We have made this as easy as possible for you. Every single sponsor's Facebook page is linked below. Just click on their names to take you to their Facebook Fan pages.

2. Come back here to the blog after you have "Liked" ALL of the pages and leave me a comment stating that you have completed the above step.

***You MUST complete both steps in to be eligible to win.***

This amazing opportunity starts Monday, July 18th and ends on Monday, July 25th at midnight CST. The winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced on Tuesday, July 26th. Items donated will be provided to the winner directly through individual sponsors.

Sponsor Facebook Pages:

Avalon Rose Design

Crave Photography

Nicole Benitez Photography

TomKat Studio

Jane Porter

Camille Chung

Swiss Miss Design Haus (Amy Wenzel Photography)

Rock the Drops

Fabulous Fun Finds

Starlit Nest Gifts & Photo Props

Designher Brands

Erin Condren Stationary

**This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated in any way with Facebook or it's affliates as directed by their updated guidelines. By entering this contest, you are provinding information to SnazzieDrawers and not to Facebook.**

London Tea Rose and our new website is LIVE!!!!!

2011-07-01T06:47:00.000-05:00

Our new website is LIVE! I also have a new felt flower pattern - the London Tea Rose, that is available for purchase on the new website as an instant download! Y ou can make it in 4 different sizes. The size shown below is the largest. I made my daughter this dress for celebration of the fourth. Enjoy your weekend everyone! Be sure to check out the new website for coupon codes for multiple purchases!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$7.50

Addison's Wonderland Children's Bedding

2011-06-26T10:49:00.000-05:00

I love a good find. Especially anything related to children's clothing or bedding! I first saw this bedding by Addison's Wonderland a few weeks ago when they asked me to make an outfit (Addison Pettiromper pattern found here) for the photo shoot. Jennie Helmuth was the photographer. Oh my heavens... When I first saw a few sneak peeks, I knew this was going to be a huge hit among moms and girls alike because I have searched high and low for over the top bedding for my kids, but everything out there is so plain and out of touch with what people really want (hello PBKids). I briefly interviewed the designer, Brittany Hayes, to find out a little bit more about how she got started (see below).

When did you start sewing?

"I started sewing in high school and then really got into it in my sophomore year of college when everyone started asking me to make things for their homes after they saw ours."

How did you get started with your business?

"My husband and I both are very entrepreneurial people. I think that definitely makes our lives crazy to have two businesses, but we love it and we help keep each other motivated. After having helped him start his business almost 9 years ago, I learned so much that I am now applying to Addison's Wonderland. After sewing samples for Addison's room, I kept getting pushed from my husband and good friend to pursue my own line. Once the sets of samples were complete, we started meeting with manufacturers and workrooms. The response started getting so overwhelming that we decided to really go for it!"

Where do you get your inspiration from?

" I am inspired by my daughter Addison first and foremost. Her sweet, girlie, spunky personality inspired me to do more with her room than the standard "Pottery Barn kids" look. I see shapes, color combinations and styles in most everything and end up dreaming up a new design at 2am when I can't fall asleep :-) Once I get started sketching, my creativity really gets going."

Just by admiring her designs, I feel her passion for what she is pursuing. I can't wait to see this brand grow! Watch out PBKids! Addison's Wonderland launches July 1st. Find them on Facebook here. She is doing a referral contest. What's the best part? Whoever refers the most people to her facebook page will receive a free piece of bedding ($300 value)! Make sure they know to say that you sent them. Be sure to visit her page and refer all of your friends and family!

Lemon Loves Lime Fall 2011

2011-06-24T08:15:00.000-05:00

If there is one boutique line that I absolutely crave and have a crush on, it is Lemon Loves Lime! I made these hair accessories for the fall 2011 Lemon Loves Lime photoshoot by Jennie Helmuth with Helmuth Photography. I tried to keep them really simple so as not to take away from the babes and fabulous duds. I linked the pattern for the flower under each photo. The best part about Lemon Loves Lime, is that their cotton (no poly blends here) knits are so incredibly soft and the detail on her appliqued tees is like no other brand I am aware of. Joy (the owner of LLL) is obviously passionate about bringing well made along with the cute.

These clothes are available for preorder on various websites online. Just google "Lemon Loves Lime fall 2011 preorder". My Ava simply must have this first dress for Kindergarten (yes she is starting Kinder..... oh so sad!).

Ava Flower Pattern found here. I just attached it to an elastic headband that I made.

Isabella Flower Pattern found here.

Headband flowers from left to right: The Isabella out of nylon chiffon, a new felt flower pattern coming soon (update: The London Tea Rose now available) , and finally the turquoise flower is an Isabella out of silk dupioni.

I don't have a pattern for this flower yet. I love it though!

Isabella flower with two pieces stacked (lace and silk dupioni). Notice I use it a ton? It is really SO easy and fast to make with great results. I used 2 flowers from the FREE rolled flower tutorial found here on my blog as the base underneath it.

New felt flower pattern coming soon (update: London Tea Rose )

Another variation of the Isabella flower.

Other news: Tim has been working around the clock on our new website. We hope to launch it really soon!

We also have a HUGE giveaway coming up in July with the theme "Starting the craft business of your dreams."

Chubby Cheek Photography Houston, Texas

2011-06-23T07:59:00.003-05:00

Shalonda with Chubby Cheek photography in Houston, TX shot this very creative flour and sugar mess shoot. I just ADORE these! You can find the La Rue Royale apron pattern (shown below) for download here.

Tim and I are also working on a new official website that will be coming soon!

How to make a Pettiromper: Addison Petti Romper PDF Pattern Release!

2011-06-15T19:08:00.007-05:00

I am excited to release the Addison Petti Romper PDF Pattern in sizes newborn, 6-12m, 12-24 m, 2t, 3t, 4t, 5, and 6!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$9.50

The possibilities are endless for shower gifts and for all the little girls you know this summer! These are comfy enough for play, yet cute enough for special portraits. They are made using a comfy knit body. If you don't like sewing with knit or haven't ever done it, I urge you to give it a try with my pattern because I put tons of tips for sewing knits with a regular machine (NO FANCY SERGER REQUIRED) and the pattern is written for a beginner. I tell you what type of needle to use, my favorite place to shop for striped knits online, what type of thread to purchase, and walk you through every single step to ensure you are able to create a romper you are pleased with. Feel free to make and sell them too as long as you place a link to my website where the pattern came from in your sales listing!

Addison Petti Romper PDF Pattern

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$9.50

La Rue Royale Apron Pattern and Fresh Pink Lemonade Graphics

2011-05-11T22:56:00.002-05:00

I wanted to create a twist on the apron pattern, so I created these two graphics (available in warm and cool colors) that can be printed onto printable treated fabric (supplier listed in pattern) and then sewn onto the front panel of the apron. I am addicted to this technique now and want to create things for all over my house! The apron pattern is sized from a 3-6 month all of the way up to a size 8.

Package Deal: La Rue Royale Apron Pattern and Fresh Pink Lemonade Graphics - Warm and Cool Colors!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$11.50

Warm Colors:

Cool Colors:

Package Deal: La Rue Royale Apron Pattern and Fresh Pink Lemonade Graphics - Warm and Cool Colors!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$11.50

Just want to order the apron alone without the graphics?

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$9.50

Just want to order the two graphics without the apron? They can be used on dish towels, pillows, framed wall art, t-shirts, beach towels, and lots more. After purchase, the graphics come without the SnazzieDrawers watermark.

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$4.50

Re-released from the Snazziedrawers Archive - Très Chic Cake Tee Appliqué Tutorial

2011-05-03T10:59:00.002-05:00

I made these birthday cake tees for sale in my Etsy shop a few years ago and seriously sold them all day long. The technique for how to make the ruffles on the pants is also given away in the pattern. It is the same technique used to make the ruffles on the cake. It can be a little tricky and takes some practice, but once you get it down, you won't want to stop making these! You could also use pre-ruffled fabric which can be found at Jo-Ann's, Hancock's, or other big box retailers. The pattern comes with printable pattern pieces and I show you step-by-step how to applique them. I really wish I had more time to applique! I especially enjoy embroidered hand work and absolutely love boutique tees for my girls.

A huge thank you to Jen Anderson for these photos. I really love her work and check her site often to see what she is up to.

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$4.50

Très Chic Cake Tee Appliqué Tutorial

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$4.50

Vintage shopping and more!

2011-05-01T10:36:00.001-05:00

Just in case you haven't seen it yet, I have a coupon code that you can use here on my blog or on Etsy for 25% off that ends tonight at midnight: SPRINGSALE11

Amy (my sister-in-law) and I had a blast in Canton on Friday! Amy was looking for a chandelier to hang from a tree for a photo shoot and I was looking for a funky eclectic necklace. We found what we were looking for and much more! We almost lost self control passing by the mini donut signs and walking through wafts of fresh funnel cakes in the air.

Below are a few of my favorite finds. I also found the cutest dress ever!

We pulled up in the VIP parking (the only way to go) and saw these adorable antique little cars. OMG! I don't have a boy, but I still want all three of them and the antique tractor too! Wouldn't they be so cute as photography props? They were priced a little over $200, which I thought was a great deal for such unique finds. I have to say Canton in general is priced very fairly IMO. I couldn't believe it. I was shocked to hear a lot of people negotiating pricing (negotiating = NOT my thing). I guess it is "smart" to negotiate, but all I can think about is all of the hard work that goes into each and every item in someone's booth, and I don't want to disrespect them.

Isn't this bedding from Junk Exchange just gorgeous?? You can find them on Etsy!

I didn't catch the name of this shop, but this adorable dresser was only $225! I wished I had a way to get it home. I would love to store the girls' dress-up costumes in it!

Per the recommendation from a gal on facebook, I found Gypsy Pearl. This is where I found my funky necklace (I need to take a photo of it). They had tins full of the soldered charms that you could choose from to create your own necklace. I absolutely LOVE mine!

Rose Linens from Cuero had these beautiful roses displayed so creatively!

This impossible-to-miss ribbon shop didn't have a business card, but they have 4 booths spread out all over Canton full of preppy striped grosgrains and unique trims.

I hope you enjoyed this brief synopsis, and if you ever have an opportunity to go to Canton, you MUST! I highly recommend it!

xoxo,

joy

New Apron Pattern Coming Soon!

2011-04-28T11:07:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share a few photos of the new apron pattern coming soon. I am going to be teaching a few techniques in the pattern such as applique. I hand stitched this cupcake on with embroidery thread and I just love the old fashioned look of this apron!

Christy with All That Sass Designs made my girls the cutest necklaces ever!

Sweet Confections

2011-04-22T08:39:00.000-05:00

Laduree, a famous parisian bakery is inspiring me this week as I work on the apron patterns! I just adore their mint green packaging, metallic labels, ornate chandeliers, and their pistachio macaroons. I haven't ever visited Laduree, but even though I quit sugar months ago, these decadent treats all look very tempting!

Photo credits: A Life Worth Eating

French Blue Blog

Ma Chérie Dress Behind the Scenes

2011-04-13T07:38:00.000-05:00

I did the final edit on the Ma Chérie Dress Pattern yesterday afternoon and finally released it last night. I gave this pattern my heart and soul. I know it is simple and that it probably doesn't seem as such, but I LOVE.... no, crave simplicity! I have been working on the bodice for this dress for the past two years. I wanted a bodice that didn't gape at the sides on my girls. I wanted it to curve down just right, exactly at the child's arm in a natural way where the fabric layed nicely on their torso. I wanted a bodice that had a round top and a soft neckline and I wanted a bodice that could have a 100 variations with a little creativity. I wanted the straps to tie at the neck, so that if you wanted to make it as a gift for a child, you could make it without trying it on them and still be ensured a nice fit. After several bodice edits, I was finally pleased with the fit.

I took photos of myself making one of the dresses a few weeks ago and went to go edit the photos for the pattern, but didn't feel it was expansive enough (re: visual explanation) and that I needed many more photos. So, I went back to the drawing board, took my photos all over again (over 500), and painstakingly edited them to find the very, very best ones that were the clearest and would show up best in black and white when printed. Then, I sat down at the computer for two 18-22 hour workdays and wrote out the pattern from my legal pad filled with notes and measurements. Tim and I sat down at the Mac and went through the pattern word for word. Tim doesn't sew, craft, or create, but he is exceptional to work with on the editing process, because he has the meticulous eye from his accounting background and points out every single tiny word that may or may not make sense and will ask "how can we say this in a more clear way?" or "what the heck is that?" :) I absolutely adore working with him because he makes my patterns so clear. When I sit down to read them that one very last time, I am so pleased with the way he edits the content to sound so very clear and descriptive.

I hope everyone finds it that way and has the same experience when they are using this new dress pattern, or any of my patterns. I remember what starting out sewing feels like. I know your time is precious. Our lives are but just a vapor. I hope within that vapor you enjoy creating something beautiful for a glorious child in your life. My happiest times are watching AddyKate and Ava twirl, spin, smile, or play in a new dress that I made for them. Addy isn't old enough but, Ava truly notices and touches all of the handmade details, understands that her dress is one of a kind, and made to fit just her.

I adore this one (shown below) I made for AddyKate without ruffles. When I was in Round Top, I found a box of $1 pieces of lace and this vintage doily was in there. I was looking for a way to "dress up" the little gold dupioni silk dress I made for her last week and thought this would complete it. I simply hand stitched it onto the bodice with coordinating thread. Now I want to go rummaging and vintage shopping this weekend to find some more to dye pink, green, coffee brown, and every color in the sun! Vintage inspires me in such a way that my mind explodes and ideas come so much more naturally. If I try to design what I think other people want, my ideas stop and I get stuck! I hope you feel inspired to sew or create. I hope you feel less frustrated when sewing. I hope that your love for sewing grows and grows from using my patterns.

I am so grateful to have a place where I am supported in what I do and don't feel pressured to go get a "real job" sitting miserably behind a desk in an office. I give heartfelt thanks to all of you. I am truly the luckiest girl in all the world today and feel like one of the happiest!

xoxo,

Joy

Ma Chérie Dress Pattern Release

2011-04-12T23:04:00.000-05:00

Ma Chérie Dress Pattern

6-12 months up to size 8

*Includes instructions written for a beginner with lots of

photos for each step and extremely thorough directions with every detail included and no assumptions made.

*Pattern includes a shirring tutorial that will take away the frustration from your shirring and teach those who haven't attempted it before in a very step by step process that will be easy to understand and achieve great results.

*Pattern will be instantly downloaded upon purchase. You can email me, Joy, at Snazziedrawers@gmail.com if you have any problems.

*You can make with or without the ruffles on the bodice.

*The pattern does not include directions on how to make the sash or the flowers in the photos. The flowers are made using the Opal Rose pattern.

$9.50

For Addy's gold dress I left off the ruffles and just simply hand stitched on a vintage crocheted doily onto the silk dupioni bodice after completing the dress.

For Ava's dress I used Amy Butler Soul Blossom fabrics.

See more photos of this pink Ma Chérie dress here.

$9.50

Round Top Warrenton Four Inspirational Gypsies

2011-04-05T10:21:00.000-05:00

This photo courtesy of Wheatfield on Etsy.

I went to Round Top and Warrenton Saturday with my sister. It was creatively inspiring and incredible to see so many artists that have have truly taken flight with their art or biz. I just looked on in awe at what these women have accomplished! What I loved most was that these women were being exactly who they were in the way they dressed, the road they have pursued, and have said "to heck with what anyone else thinks", and you know what? They are all more successful for it because people recognize the uniqueness of their gifts and talents and crave to find the same thing within themselves by looking at others who have.

While there were hundreds of magazine spread worthy antique dealer booths dealing the good stuff at lofty prices (12K for tables, etc.), I was more drawn to the fabulous "junk" and repurposed potential finds I discovered while traversing the long miles through Warrenton. If you only had a hundred bucks or even tens of thousands to spend, there were zillions of things for you to more than willingly drop your cash on. There were no high powered sales pitches. No one was twisting anyone's arm to buy anything. Isn't that the way it should be? There was soooo much there, we could have easily spent three or four days and not seen everything there was to offer!

I just had to share my three favorite gypsies of Gypsyland.

Paris Montana

This gal aka "Paris Montana" traded in her Mercedes and big corporate job to start a vintage eclectic salvage jewelry biz straight out of an airstream which she had decked out in lace and pearls, leaving the big city behind her and nothing but the open road ahead of her. She compares Round Top and Warrenton to her first love: Paris Flea Markets.

You can find her blog here.

Junk Gypsy

These next two sisters traded in their business suits and pointy heels for tattered jeans and boots to follow their dreams of owning their own business. Junk Gypsy has some celebrity fans, which after five seconds in their bohemian/country/vintage (very Anthropologie with southern charm) outdoor store at Warrenton, you wouldn't be surprised at all.

Magnolia Pearl

When I got home, I started researching Round Top and came across this gypsy (who is also a vendor), but I didn't happen to find her there this time, but I am so looking forward to finding her in the fall. Can you believe this first photo below is inside her airstream? You must go to her website and view her one-of-a-kind lace clothing pieces!

Tips for being a happy artist per my observations from Round Top:

Huge thanks to the very talented April Pizana Photography of Houston for letting me use some of her photos from her own Round Top weekend excursion!

New Opal Rose PDF Flower Pattern

2011-04-04T13:50:00.000-05:00

I am excited to release the new Opal Rose PDF Flower Pattern!

The pattern includes detailed instructions with lots of photos and diagrams. I have included directions how to make three different sized flowers as shown below.

Instant Download

$7.50

Instant Download

Pattern does not include instructions for how to make the sash. The Opal Rose pattern is a pattern that shows you how to make the three different sized flowers in the photos above.

Austin, Texas Matilda Jane Online Trunk Show

2011-03-31T09:36:00.000-05:00

Online Matilda Jane Trunk Show

open to anyone regardless of where you live in the world!

Because I absolutely adore and obsess over Matilda Jane clothes and their incredible company and owner with the heart of pure gold, Denise, I am hosting an Online Trunk Show.

I always enjoy reading her blog because she is so refreshingly REAL and passionate about making children look ever more adorable than they already are.

If you would like to place an order, simply go to their website and start shopping.

While you are finding things you love, just "add them to your wishlist". Then when you are finished on the left hand side of the screen you will see an option to email your wishlist. Email me your wishlist at Snazziedrawers@gmail.com and I will send it to my trunk keeper ASAP. Please ask me if you have any questions at all! I would absolutely love to help you! I am thrilled to do this and order a few things for my girls for spring and summer. We just went through all of their clothes yesterday and realized they have outgrown so much! It felt great to purge and donate but it will feel better to get super cute clothes from a UPS man :).

Off to decide what I want! Also, House of Clouds has some new pieces coming out Friday early in the morning. If you want to place an order for ANYTHING from the HOC new line, you HAVE to SEND me your wishlist before 10:45 in the a.m. so I can send it to my trunk keeper so you have a better chance at getting what you want.

Lotsa love and let the shopping begin! I'm excited!

This photo by Tori Piercy Photography was the winner of the Matilda Jane photo contest 2011!

The photos below the pony photo were by a local Texas gal in Tyler, Color and Dust Photography. She was in the top 3 finalists of the Matilda Jane Photo Contest. You have to check out her recent work here . Seriously I am blown away!

Ma Chérie Dress Pattern and a New Flower Pattern Coming Soon

2011-03-29T08:41:00.000-05:00

I created these dresses for Ava from the new Ma Chérie Dress Pattern and a new flower pattern I am finishing up. I am making Addy a soft pale blue one like the pink one.

Ava:

Favorite flower- Buttercup

Favorite attire- Pink, twirly, girly, dresses

Favorite breakfast- Pancakes with maple syrup

Favorite sport- Swimming (she can swim about 30 feet underwater all by her lonesome as of last Thursday!)

Favorite person- AddyKate, her "sista"

Favorite book- Brown Bear which she reads to AddyKate

Funny even though she has been raised in the heart of Texas she has a New York accent when she pronounces certain words. She cracks up our friends from New York because she sounds just like Mike, who was born and raised there. I have no idea where she got that from!

Ava, you are my darling, "Ma Chérie".

Lots of love,

Mom

The super cute necklace in the this last photo is from All That Sass Designs on etsy.

New Ruffled Dresses

2011-03-24T00:10:00.000-05:00

We went to the beach at the lake today and took some photos of the girls in some new ruffled dresses I made and designed for them. It was the most perfect day of sunshine and a little wind. Can you believe we are already in the 90's?

I was able to get some photos of AddyKate! Woohoo! I have been trying for 2 years. She is always on the go but with Tim's help and some candy, she was more than willing to look at the camera and even cross her legs. We had been asking her to cross her legs for about 5 minutes to no avail and then Tim pulled out some candy and without him asking again, she immediately crossed her legs. So funny because I always think she just might not be old enough to follow instructions. Oh no, just not interested or motivated enough. I still don't know how photographers get babies and toddlers to smile and look so adorable all day.

xoxo

IMPORTANT Lucia Bella Pantaloons Pattern Update

2011-03-22T14:02:00.000-05:00

I am now offering the Lucia Bella Pantaloons Pattern in additional sizes 7 and 8 at no additional charge! I have also added additional information and specific directions for making the pants without the lace as shown below due to several requests for it. The newly updated pattern is available for instant download here.

For customers that have already purchased this pattern here on my blog, or through Etsy: If you wish to receive the pattern with these changes, please email me at Snazziedrawers@gmail.com with the following (required):

1. You MUST email me from the email address you used when purchasing the pattern. This can be the email address you have on file with Etsy OR the email address associated with the Paypal account used to purchase the pattern.

2. If you can provide the transaction receipt from your purchase, this will help me verify that you have purchased the pattern and I will be able to process your request much faster.

I will do my best to process all of the requests and reply to your inquiries within 24 hours. I hope you enjoy the updates and thank you for continued support of our business!

Vintage Kissed Tea Party

2011-03-22T05:44:00.000-05:00

Print can be found here

Sweet baby Lyla Rose turned 1 this month! I made the Lucia Bella pants, the apron, and her headband. Katie with Peekaboo Photos outdid herself with this creative, vintage shoot. I wish I could have seen everything in person. I just love it all! You can find links to everything on her blog.

On a second note, I just LOVE the quote in the first photo. It is something that has been on my mind lately. I am usually always going a mile a minute with deadlines left and right but since we went on vacation I find it so hard to put my girls down. Ava will be starting Kindergarten in the fall. Addy is only 2 1/2 (my ultimate favorite age) ONCE. I am in awe of how lucky of a gal I am to have these girls. It is funny how the more I savor moments with my family the more I am inspired to create and it feels less like work and more like what I absolutely love to do.

Handmade Crowns

2011-03-18T09:40:00.000-05:00

I recently have had an obsession with handmade crowns. I think this would be SO cute as a cake topper for a little girl's birthday cake, for her to play dress up in, or for an artistic photo shoot.

I know it is OVER THE TOP. I was going for exactly that. I would love to make some simple ones too, though that are smaller with ribbons to throw in Ava and Addy's dress up box out of quilting fabrics and have them decorate them with some glitter and sparkle. I think it would be fun for a mother, daughter craft. Ava and Addy both love to play in this one. No, this is definitely not something they would wear to the grocery store unless you are the coolest mom ever but yes something to be enjoyed just by her.

Hello Spring!

2011-03-11T17:38:00.000-06:00

I took some photos of the girls this week. I made the apron and the lavender hair piece. It really felt great to be back in the swing of things and back to creating!

Pacific Northwest Love Affair

2011-03-05T16:23:00.000-06:00

We escaped for a vacation last month to Portland and Seattle. I wasn't prepared for how much I would fall in love with these two cities. In Portland, I experienced the best cupcake of my life: the cherry cheesecake cupcake at Cupcake Jones. In Seattle, we drank up our cup of Joe's on Pike Place at the very first Starbucks!

While in Portland, I managed to hit up the local antique mall, Monticello's in Portland and wanted to share some photos from my afternoon stroll through all of the talented vendors' booths! If you are headed to Portland, you must stop here! The lace selection was heaven sent. I haven't ever seen that many of perfectly tied bags of antique and vintage lace.

Thanks to everyone for suggesting I visit Fabric Depot. Their extensive ribbon selection kept me occupied for hours. The Oregon coast was a sight to behold! Wow, how have I never visited this place? I definitely will have to go back in the summer!

I think Seattle had me at hello. If I could set up shop at Pike Place, well, I would. On the other hand, the drive into Portland on I-84 through the mountains along the Columbia River Gorge took my breath away and I never wanted to leave. Coming home was a drudge!

I would be happy moving to either city! We visited both to consider relocating. For a long time, we have wanted to move somewhere with much cooler summers, covered in tall green trees, and quick access to the mountains or the beach. The Pacific northwest has it all and then some!

What do you think? Which one would you move to if you could, or if you live in or near Seattle or Portland, what are the things you love or don't happen to like so much? Rain isn't a factor for us because we happen to love rain! Post your thoughts below or feel free to email me at Snazziedrawers@gmail.com. I would love to hear your thoughts!

Valerie Koop Auction ENDS MARCH 1

2011-02-28T18:31:00.000-06:00

Denise with Matilda Jane Clothing sent me an email a few weeks ago asking me to help with this auction.

Honestly I don't know nor have ever met Valerie Koop. Doesn't matter. I feel so connected to her now.

Get out an entire BOX of Kleenex as a sweet gal mentioned on facebook and read her story.

How can you help?

You can participate in this amazing auction to win some MJC clothes, trips, quilts, hair accessories by several gals (me included) or can donate here on this blogpost directly to Valerie herself.

The money from the auction will go towards helping her with her two beautiful babies while she is battling cancer, nutritious meals, assisting her in finding a job, helping her emotionally with losing her husband to cancer just a few weeks ago, and so much more.

AUCTION ENDS MARCH 1.

February

2011-02-11T18:01:00.000-06:00

Addy, Tim, and I have been sick since last Friday. Whew I am so ready to feel well. I have not been productive with work as I like to be but have had an abundance of snuggles from my girls. Ava and I managed to have a mommy/daughter day last week that was really wonderful. She could hardly sleep the night before our shopping and Build-A-Bear excursion. If you can believe it, it was our first time to go to build us a bear. I really have struggled with spending so much on a teddy bear but she enjoyed it so much, we will definitely have to go back some time on a special occasion.

I don't think I have ever been so happy to see the sun in my eyes today. This Texas weather has been crazy and I have realized I could never live in a cold climate because I would be terribly down without some sun rays shining through my windows. Ava enjoyed building a snow cake though with her friend and I learned that I can build a killer fire in our fireplace. I guess it must be from growing up on a farm in the middle of nowhere, building bonfires on the weekends with friends for entertainment.

Hoping there is warmer weather where you may be too! I am planning a trip to Portland within the next few weeks!!! Any Oregon gals have any fabric store recommendations for me?

Addy Kate shoeless... she kicks her shoes off relentlessly even in when it is 20 degrees outside

Ava and our good family friend's little boy, Mr. "C"

Ava and her friend Miss "H" building a snow cake!

How To Make Custom Boutique Pants for your Children

2011-02-10T09:38:00.000-06:00

Ava, my 5 year old, is tall for her age by about 1.5". Her pants always fit her too big in the waist and a tad too short so I enjoy making her a pair of pants that fit her perfectly in the waist and hem.

How do you make custom fit pants for your children or customers?

You will need two important measurements from the child. This won't be easy to do with wiggly toddlers! It is a good idea to take measurements while your child is distracted with a movie or a favorite toy.

Outseam:

The outseam measurement provides the pant length. Take the tape measure and run it outside of the child's leg. Start at the top of the waist and end at the ankle bone or top of the shoe. Add 1" to this measurement and you have the child's pant outseam measurement. You can also simply take a pair of pants that fit the child perfectly in length and measure from the top of the waist of the pant to the bottom of the hem. Do not add 1" to this measurement to get the outseam. The number you get from either method will be measurement A for this tutorial.

Example: Ava's outseam is 24" from her waist down to her ankle bone. I will add 1" so my measurement A= 25".

Waist:

A super easy and fun way to get a child's waist measurement is to have them bend at the side. The natural crease that forms on their side directly above the belly button and below the ribcage is where there waistline falls.

Take your measuring tape and measure all of the way around the child at the waist. If the child is not present or you are unable to get them to be still, then you can also simply measure around a well fitting pair of pants at the waist. Jot that number down. This will be measurement B for this tutorial.

Example: Ava's waist measurement is 20" all of the way around her natural waistline.

CUSTOM fitting their OUTSEAM:

When making a pant pattern to custom fit a child's outseam, simply measure the length of the PATTERN piece in their SIZE. Subtract the WAIST and the HEM allowance from this measurement. This will be the finished outseam of the PATTERN. This will be measurement C for this tutorial.

Example: In the Lucia Bella Pants Pattern, the finished outseam is already printed on the pattern piece so you don't have to worry about subtracting the waist and hem allowance. Ava is a size 5 in these pants and the outseam for this size is 23.5" so my measurement C=23.5".

Now subtract measurement C from A. This will be measurement D which represents the difference in the two. If you have a positive number, then you need to add the amount of measurement D to the pant pattern piece length at the bottom of the hem before cutting your fabric.

If your measurement D is a negative number, then subtract it from the pant pattern piece length at the bottom of the hem before cutting your fabric.

Example: Ava's measurement A was 25" and my measurement C=23.5".

25"- 23.5" = 1.5" so Ava's measurement D is 1.5".

Therefore, I need to add 1.5" to the pant pattern piece hem length before I cut out my fabric. You DO NOT want to add the 1.5" to the top of the waist, because it will cause the pants to sag in the crotch.

CUSTOM fitting their WAIST:

This is a cinch. When you cut out your elastic, subtract 3" from measurement B (their waist). Cut your elastic this length.

If in doubt, insert the elastic with a few inches to spare into the pants waistband casing. Before sewing the elastic, try the pants on your child and ask them when the waist feels most comfortable as you adjust the elastic. You can pin it in place with a safety pin as you determine a nice fit.

Don't let "custom" fitting scare you away from a great fitting pair of pants for your customers or kids. Your customers will be more than happy to have someone willing to go the extra mile and will more than likely be a repeat customer in the future. If you are selling your creations, I recommend creating a spreadsheet or database with your customers' children's measurements so when they come back to order more, they won't have to retake the measurements and it will be easier for both of you. Your customers and children will enjoy your creations more if you ensure they will fit well.

If you are making these for your children, store the measurements somewhere easy for you to access in your craft area or studio.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Snazziedrawers@gmail.com

Vintage Lucia Bella Boutique Pantaloons PDF Pattern

2011-02-01T11:27:00.000-06:00

This casa has been busy! I have been knee deep in coffee, Photoshop, Illustrator, fabric, pattern pieces, sketches, and best of all back at my sewing machine!! I honestly never tired of making sample after sample of this pant. I love them so much. They are so my style! I made them out of linen, home decor weight damask fabric without the overlay, quilting fabrics without the overlay, tons of times with lace over red cotton, silk dupioni, or this ocean blue cotton, really any fabric almost in my stash. I will be taking more photos soon when it isn't 26 degrees outside and a windstorm going on here in Austin! I thought I was on the coast of Florida last night in a hurricane.

I am so excited to release the Lucia Bella Pantaloons Pattern!

INSTANT Download

$9.50

I have enjoyed making these for my girls so much! I am going to look for some pretty eyelet as well for summer pants!

Photography by my awesome sister-in-law, Amy Forrest.

www.AmyForrestPhotography.wordpress.com

I started with this stack of fabrics and dove in!

For The Love Quilts Giveaway: CLOSED

2011-01-23T23:07:00.000-06:00

CLOSED:

WINNER:

Niina said...

There isn´t a little girl in the world who wouldn´t like to have that quilt for her doll! From where does she find time to make those amazing quilts with 5 kids??? I only have 1 and feel that I´m always running everywhere :) I´m following Lu´s blog and I am already your fb fan!

I really love a good find, whether it is a set of rhinestone earrings long forgotten in a tattered jewelry box or an incredibly talented mother of 5, who is starting a new business venture which is why I am so truly excited to introduce you to the gorgeous Lu with For The Love Quilts.

Lu might be new to Etsy (visit her shop here), but she is certainly not new to creating and quilting.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
I am Mom to 5 fantastic kiddo's. I have been married for almost 13 years. And I am obsessed with fabric!

Tell me about your craft/sewing studio.
Well...I don't have one. I used to have a room dedicated to all of my hobbies but I always felt like I was hiding out. I have a large family and I really like to be accessible to my kids. So now I just sew on my large kitchen table. I can see everyone and everyone can see me :-)

How did you learn to quilt?
I have been sewing since I was very young. My Mom and my Grandmother are both exceptional with the sewing machine. When I was pregnant with my first child I was discouraged with my choices for his crib bedding. So I decided to just sew it myself. I've literally sewn dozens of crib bedding sets for my friends, family, and myself. About 9 years ago I discovered that quilt's could be cool and contemporary. I basically taught myself how to quilt. Even though I 've been quilting for quite a while I still feel like I'm learning new things all of the time.

Who are your favorite fabric designers and why?

That is such a tough question. There are so many amazing modern fabric designers today. I don't think I can even narrow that down to a few. But right now, I have a stack of Patty Young's Sanctuary that I am dying to cut into! HawthorneThreads.com is my favorite online fabric store. They carry stuff you will never see in your local quilt shop.

Why do you enjoy creating?
Fabric really inspires me. When I see a piece or a collection that really grabs my eye I almost immediately know what I want to do with it. I also have a deep love of all things comfort. To me, there is nothing more comforting than getting cozy with a beautiful soft quilt. Over the years I have tried to make a quilt for all of the people that I love and adore. All of the quilts I sew are intended for use, lots of use! My biggest pet peeve is when someone thinks a quilt is "too nice to use." My quilts are not sewn with the purpose of hanging on a wall or staying neatly folded away with other treasures. They are meant for your favorite movie, book or loved one :-)

Wouldn't your little girl LOVE to have this quilt for her American Girl doll or stuffed animal? I love the tiny detail on the pillowcase and the teeny tiny binding all around it.

Lu is so generously giving away this precious Mini Doll quilt and pillow to one lucky little girl (you can see a similar set here for sale in her Etsy shop).

What do you do to enter?

1) Follow her blog here.

2) Fan SnazzieDrawers on Facebook here if you haven't already.

3) Be sure to leave a comment below in this same blogpost telling me that you did so.

Giveaway closes Friday, January 28th at midnight.

A winner will be chosen by random.org.

ALL PHOTOGRAPHY IN THIS BLOGPOST

by PEEKABOO PHOTOGRAPHY

VIEW HER BLOG HERE

For the Love of Vintage Giveaway: Closed

2011-01-20T21:26:00.000-06:00

Giveaway Winner:

One Happy Mommom
"I was always told as a young girl that "I was a old soul" I always loved vintage, from listening to old music from my mothers 78's & 45's...."
chosen by random.org

I know I have fallen off the blog earth lately. Tim and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary as well as his birthday on the 6th. On the 15th, we celebrated my 31st birthday.

For some crazy reason, my birthday brought me intense stress this year. I haven't ever felt that way about being a year older but 31 is entirely too close to 40. What's wrong with 40? I'm not sure really except that I'm certain people die somewhere after that. Midlife crisis? Possibly. No convertible...yet. I am really happy I lived through my birthday celebration and it was fabulous in fact thanks to my Tim. He knows exactly how to handle me by never taking me too serious. We had a weekend all to ourselves and it was truly wonderful!

Here are a few of my favorite vintage and handmade items in my studio. I love collages! It was my first time photographing my stash but I will definitely be doing more of this sort of thing in the future! I think I have found a new hobby. That's all I need right?

The Olivia Heiress Hat Pattern will be available for purchase sometime tomorrow! It will have sizing for adults as well in the pattern.

Where can you find everything?

My sister picked up the crocheted trim and the tiny pom pom trims for me in NYC at Purl and my niece gifted me the large pom pom trim for Christmas from Anthropologie. The fabulous earrings are from JewelryVixen on Etsy.

Wanna win a surprise box of ribbons, trims, and buttons from Purl and me valued at over $50? I will be generous.. I am in dire need of some serious destashing.

Just leave me a comment telling me about your love of vintage! Oh how I love to hear from you my friend!

It is never too late to have a happy childhood...

2011-01-06T08:21:00.000-06:00

I know I have taken a step back from my blog this past month. I missed Christmas and ringing in the New Year! I really needed a wee break my friends! December was a really tough month! On December 18th I finished my orders, and looked at my messy house and realized I had not even put up stockings or a tree and that Christmas was days away. So I sighed, put up 3 stockings (couldn't find Tim's), cleaned my house, and decided next year would be different, but this year we celebrated without a tree for the first time since we had Ava. My sis said, "You are creating memories...". Well that is for sure! Remember the year we didn't even have a tree? Ughhh, yes.

We headed for a trip to our new favorite park today and it was truly the perfect afternoon at the park...soaking up some newly appreciated Texas sunshine. With one dose of Ava's zest, two doses of Addy's wonder, and a hefty dose of precious here and now, I left feeling this was an amazing day... Here's to creating the best kind of memories. I am loving you already 2011- the greatest year yet my friends!

Ava's precious nickname "noodle" hand embroidered tee was made by sweet Erin!

Isabella La Fleur Pattern

2011-01-02T17:06:00.001-06:00

Isabella La FLeur Flower Pattern Released!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$7.50

THE ABSOLUTE BEGINNER flower pattern!

Can be made in 5 different sizes!!

NO previous sewing experience required AND NO SEWING MACHINE!

SO EASY YOU WON'T BELIEVE HOW fabulous the results are!!!

Faster to make than any other flower pattern I have!

Please note:

This is just the pattern on how to make the flower that is shown attached on the left to the tank top and the center flower on the head pieces.

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$7.50

Tinsel Trading 37th Street in NYC

2010-12-19T09:44:00.000-06:00

Tinsel Trading Company

This is honestly the secret treasure emporium I have kept in my back pocket for a few months. The night I found their website, I was tucked away in a corner of Barnes and Nobles late at night reading French General: Treasured Notions, a book about Tinsel Trading Company. I had happened upon this gorgeous "flea marketesque" (think Paris not east Texas) book full of photos of European notions that I had never in my life known existed. I was at first in a dream studying each vintage, metallic ribbon and vintage spooled Passementerie (trim). Oh to have been amongst the lucky girls who got to go in the basement of TTC to discover these boxed up, sealed antique riches. I really felt like someone had their foot on my chest because I could hardly breath gazing at these images. Then I decided to flip back to the beginning of the book and actually read it word for word. I was in quiet awe of the passion this collector had for his treasures.

You can read more about his story here and about how his business has now been passed on to his granddaughter. His treasures are now sought out by famous fashion designers such as Ralph Lauren, John Galliano of Dior, Anna Sui.

I hope you enjoy their inspirational collections as much as I have the past few months. I am hoping to venture to 37th street in NYC someday! Want to join me?

Metallic ribbons and passementeries

Metallic fabrics

Metallic Threads

Oh how I love these. What would you make with them?

Photo credits:

and here.

Who inspires you?

2010-12-19T06:33:00.000-06:00

I was elated when Katie Moss with Peekaboo Photography asked me to do the hair accessories for her Christmas card photos. She is always so full of captivating ideas. I think one of the many reasons Katie is such a highly regarded photographer is that she is a designer. She plans her shoots out well in advance and is very detail oriented. I was enamoured with her plan, the props, the color palette, the dresses, all of it. I tucked away in my craft room for a few days to work on these accessories with a collection of golden hued high quality supplies and my mind purely inspired by her vision.

I was so thrilled to see the photos in my inbox, with the hat, halo (Katie's idea entirely), and headband all modeled on Olivia, Mya, and Lyla a few weeks ago.

Katie's Christmas cards have been shipped and received so now I can share the photos here!

It has truly been a joy to work with Katie this year. She just simply inspires me! Thank you Katie for all of the photos you have generously sent my way of my designs! You are truly a blessing! Have you seen on her blog that she is doing a photography workshop with her best friend and the fabulous children's photographer Skye Johansen? I REALLY want to go!

A pattern is coming soon for the Vintage Heiress Olivia Hat. You can also purchase it here. My mom is in town and saw the hat last night and said she used to wear similar hats when she was a teenager. Oh how I wish I had a photo of her in one of those! I have also had a lot of requests on facebook to make the halo a pattern so that they could be made for weddings and other occassions. What do you think? I am also happy to take a custom order on any of the three.

Nurture Creativity

2010-12-10T09:25:00.000-06:00

I seriously think my facebook fans have kept me sane this week. I don't know what I would have done without them! As cheesy as it sounds thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my ? and A's that have helped me have some human connection other than the lady behind the counter at Hobby Lobby or Hancocks this week. It also helps to have the sweetest neighbor right next door, Maryanne, who has girls my age and who loves to humor me by being a sounding board.

I have been working on custom orders this week, with my ipod blasting. I am getting orders out as fast as I possibly can. Please look for some exciting new photos coming soon from Peekaboo Photograph. I seriously am bursting with excitement to reveal them to you!

I have a few patterns/tutorials I am working on the brainstorm / sketching process on. It seems I work best on new projects when I am not working on them.

Tim has been picking up the slack at home and seriously has the kids 24/7 almost right now with exception to their mommy time for a little bit each day. I have to buckle down though. It is good for them to have some daddy time. Hoping to have all custom orders shipped by the 18th.

Meanwhile, I wanted to share this image of a gorgeous painting by the amazing Janet Hill Studio. You can find her incredibly feminine art here. I adore how she captures womanhood, unlike any other artist I have ever seen. Her pieces inspire me to push a little harder within. She sells her prints and also if you are fortunate enough you can purchase the originals on her website.

I just love art in all forms. My mom is a painter. My father was a creative collector of historical artifacts. My sister loves to decorate and is an avid collector of so many beautiful things that it would make your head spin. I have a brother, John, that is an incredible pencil artist so much so that his work stops my heart. My brother Aaron loves creative business development and has just the eye small businesses need for success. My husband can smell a cologne and tell you 20 different natural essential oils that were used to make it (crazy eh?) and also creates the greatest spreadsheets for me of all time that I could never have dreamed up. I guess I see life in a new light that whatever your medium whether it be a business plan or watercolors, we are all artists in someway and all connected creatively in someway. Have you ever stared at your children in awe? I sometimes think how God? Hod did you do it? I know the scientific aspect of it but as an artist I recognize art and well my friend the greatest artist of all created my Ava's squishy rosy soft cheeks and my Addy's precious little ruby poised lips. That said to me the greatest works of all time were created out of love. I guess where am I going with this? You girl. Don't give up on yourself when you get down about your business, your creative endeavors. When failure sets in, pick yourself up again and again and never give up because you were created out of love and you are SO loved. Don't let your children say, "can't" and don't get caught up saying it yourself either. That is the four letter word in our house. I can't even stand it. I won't let Ava say it for a second. Why? Because I said it to myself for 30 years. I get a ton of emails from people telling me they are not creative. I honestly get a strong urge to jump on a plane and go meet up at a coffee shop with that girl immediately to talk some sense into her head. What? You aren't creative? I have NO creativity when it comes to styling my kids hair, decorating my house (you would so not be impressed), organizing, the list could go on forever. I really don't focus on those things though. I try to stay focused on the narrow scape of things that I can do. I spent so long doing the opposite that trust me this is the better way and you will find a happy soul and a newfound love for yourself in your quest for finding your creativity.

As a mom of girls, I really want them to pursue their curiousities so that they find their inner creative force that drives them to their passion and that they find what they love to do. Ava already loves to paint. It is insane how much paint is on my office walls right now. I love this book about raising creative children, The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections. This girl directed me to a new path of parenting that has helped me so much in letting go of the control and allowing my children to make huge messes. I don't know about you but my favorite things I ever made caused some huge messes. Today I stumbled upon an article online (click here) that brought me to tears about guiding our children to marvel at life and the world around them.

I appreciate your support of my creative projects more than you could ever imagine. I am home with my children every minute of the day because of you... and well that is where my passion comes...making patterns for women to be able to make and sell so that you can also be there with your little ones.

xoxo

Joy

Love to each of you my sweet friends.

PS Tim hasn't edited this yet so go easy on my grammar.

FREE Baby Leg Warmers Tutorial

2010-12-09T19:49:00.000-06:00

Joy here. I would LOVE to introduce you to Abby with Sew Much Ado. I seriously LOVE her blog. She takes Anthropologie (which just so happens to be my very favorite store for me) clothing and makes the inspired version all herself which afterwards she models so beautifully on her cute little self. She also has the cutest pattern I have ever seen for a little girl's doll (go here). It will melt your heart! I just adore her creativity and asked her to guest blog for me sometime and so here she is!

Hello SnazzieDrawers fans! This is Abby with Sew Much Ado, guest blogging this week with a fabulous FREE tutorial for baby and toddler leg warmers that I dreamed up myself!

You will LOVE how easy and fast it is! Oh the possibilities! These are awesome to keep those chubby little legs warm during the cold months and for toddlers on the playground under skirts and dresses!

Have a pair of knee socks you'd like to refashion? In 10 minutes your little lady can be stylin' some new leg warmers! Find the tutorial to make the ruffle skirt from a t-shirt here.

Description:

This tutorial will guide you through making toddler (or baby) leg warmers in -- get this -- 10 minutes! You can't get any easier than this project, and you'll love the finished product.

Materials:

pair of women's knee socks (Target and the dollar store are great places to find inexpensive knee socks if you don't have any to refashion)

Directions:

Cut

1. Cut each sock off at ankle, forming a long tube of fabric. Leg warmers can be made shorter by cutting sock off at a higher point above the ankle.

2. Cut heel and toe areas off of each sock. This will form the upper band of the leg warmers.

Fold
3. For each sock, fold short tube of fabric in half, matching raw edges.

Sew

4. For each sock, place long tube of fabric inside of short tube, matching raw edges and right sides together.

5. Pin and sew 1/2" from raw edges, joining the two pieces. Trim seam allowance to 1/4".

Unfold and Admire
5. Fold the cuff upwards and you are done! Great job! Head over here to make a matching (and by "matching," I mean "un-matching", cause it's cuter that way) ruffle skirt.

Wear them long or cinch them up, she will love to wear them either way with her ruffle skirt!

Matilda Jane Giveaway!

2010-12-07T01:40:00.000-06:00

The Matilda Jane LUCKY (so jealous!) Giveaway winner is the commenter "Meli"
"Oh.my.word!!! I am sure this is a dream...so I am just gonna wait until I wake up.... Wait!?! NOT A DREAM!?!
This is the best giveaway EVER!! And my lil red head with curlz would be super duper cute in all of that!!!!..."
chosen by random.org

You can see her response to winning on my facebook page! Hard to be jealous when someone as enthusiastic and appreciative as her would have won. Thanks Denise for an amazing giveaway!

Denise, the genius creative owner/designer behind Matilda Jane Clothing is offering an amazing giveaway!

Do you remember where you were when you first laid eyes on a Matilda Jane outfit? In the indie children's design world, Matilda Jane has in my opinion has had more of an influence than any other boutique brand. One search on Etsy for a "knot dress" brought up 1722 dresses. What is it about their clothes that puts them in a league entirely of their own? I believe it is Denise's incredible eye for creating a collage of texture out of gorgeous "surprise" fabrics and is always coming up with new techniques that are both practical and adorable in her designs to keep people guessing what is next. I believe she also has a clear sense of what little girls want in their clothes and what mothers want to dress their children in. Matilda Jane really captures the essence of childhood in a way that I don't know of any other brand that pleases mommy and daughter better. I also adore how Matilda Jane clothes "fit". I love that they are so comfy cozy for my girls and that she uses so many knits so that the clothes can be worn to the park to play in but adorable enough to get lots of oohs and ahhs every time she wears MJC.

Denise is so generously giving away the following to one lucky winner, over a $300 value!

Winter Sugarland Line:

The Felicia Knot Dress Size 4 $52:

Peekaboo Photography

The Gum-Drop Tee Size 4 $26:

The Lollipop Skirt Size 4 $52:

From Her Field Trip Line:

This Adorable Cord/Knit Dress Size 4 $52:

Cream Tee Size 4 $24:

Laced Up Tights $14:

Mulligan Tights Size 4 $14:

MJC Platinum:

The precious Willow Cardigan Size 4 $48:

The Mighty Acorn Tee Size 4 $24:

See photo below of the acorn tee.

I made coordinating hair accessories for the outfits. All of the hair accessories seen below are also going to one lucky winner!

I will be adding more photos.

The winner will receive two Lyla Rose Headbands, the Jetaime Headband, the Ava headband, and the Isabella Headband that are all ready to ship!

Total value on the headbands is $210!

How do you enter for a chance to be the winner of everything above?

You must do all three to enter. Not on facebook? Girl, it's time you signed up.

1. Fan Matilda Jane on Facebook here.

2. Fan SnazzieDrawers on Facebook here.

3. Leave a comment on this blogpost.

Contest ends Sunday, December 12 at midnight.

Free Rolled Flower Tutorial

2010-12-02T07:19:00.000-06:00

How To Make "The" Rolled Flower Tutorial

Supplies Needed:

Strip of fabric at least 3" wide by ~30" long

1.5" felt square

Hot glue gun

Hmmm. What?? You've seen these before? Of course you have! These flowers are EVERYWHERE you look. They are super popular on Etsy and rampant all over the internet. Why? Because they are quick and EASY! I have had dozens of requests for a tutorial on how to make these. Since this is such a popular and prevalent design, I have decided to give you this tutorial for free! These are super easy and meant for the absolute beginner crafter. And for all you "non-crafty" people, here is the best part:

They require NO sewing! Not a single stitch!

So let's dive right in...

Take a piece of scrap fabric (I am using dupioni silk I purchased from High Fashion Fabrics).

Cut a small slit 3" over from the left edge of your fabric as shown below in the photo.

Then, rip the fabric all the way down to the other end. Do not cut it, rip it! My piece is 33" long so in the end I have a 3" by 33" strip.

*Note: You can use any strip length. The shorter your strip, the smaller your flower will be. You can also play with the width and increase it from 3" if you want a thicker flower.

Tie a knot on one end of your strip.

Place a dollop of hot glue in the center of your 1.5" felt square.

Place your knot directly on top of your dollop of glue and hold it in place until firmly secured.

Next we will do a five step process to make the rolled flower.

Before you do any of this, make sure your knot is firmly in place and that the glue is dry.

1st: TWIST your strip. Play around with the twisting to create different effects. A tight twist will create a really flat flower. A looser twist will create a thicker, fuller rolled flower (if you want a fuller flower, I also recommend using a wider strip than 3").

2nd: Lightly GLUE AROUND the center knot in small increments as shown in the photo below. If you don't want to use hot glue, you can use a fast drying Tacky Glue or sew instead. Be careful not to use too much glue, or it will seep through your rolled layers and make a huge mess!

3rd: ROLL your twisted strip around the knot. The glue will secure your rolling in place.

4th: Continue rolling and gluing your twisted strip around the center of the flower as shown below.

5th: When you get to the end of your strip, simply glue the end under the edge of the flower as shown.

Optional: Glue a circle of felt or fabric cut to size onto the back of your flower to leave a finished look.

Now your first rolled flower is finished! You can use these for just about anything! Add lace,

rhinestones, or feathers for a posh polish.

Below are a few inspirational ideas:

Be inspired and make these flowers to your heart's content, but please don't replicate my designs for commercial use with these exact fabrics and color combinations. Enjoy!

Red in Fred Fredericksburg, Texas

2010-11-22T05:59:00.000-06:00

I know I promised the tutorial this weekend. We decided to skip town to Fredericksburg for an oh so much needed break. It is difficult to work at home sometimes even though I wouldn't have it any other way because work is everywhere you look and hard to turn off. I just HAD to get away! Sorry! There is so much SnazzieDrawers work (that's a great thing I know), laundry, company coming, a fridge to be cleaned out, a craft room to be organized into Container Store compartments, oh you get it I know. It isn't any different from your life. Fredericksburg never disappoints and I am farely confident regardless of where you live in the US it would be worth your journey. It is a beautiful, old historic German town, with a main street of chipped paint paradise.

Speaking of chipped paint, ever since I got my camera I have craved it! So of course while we were there I had to shoot some photos of the girls. Having a lot of fun with my camera!

Addy is more difficult to photograph. Can't wait to get the hang of manual focus enough to capture her eyelashes. :)

The shopping in Fredericksburg is intimidating to even write a little blogpost about because it is so hard for me to put into words how unique and wonderful this place is. I could blog for a month about nothing else. There are over 100 shops that are over 100 years old full of antiques from Europe, vintage finds, boutiques for kids (Beulah's my fave), boutiques for moms, historic homes, beautiful architecture, and incredibly tasty food (award winning Peach Tree Tee Room's unique caesar salad and strawberry crepe tdf!)

One store that surely delivers unique and beautiful on a platter was one of my favorite stores, Red (attempting to capture some of the store here but honestly photos don't do it justice). It is like a Pottery Barn but with vintage finds mixed in and modern eclectic funky color and eye candy (think Godiva in omg intensity of flavor and skittles in color) that makes you want to back up the suburban to the back dock and shop the kindof shop that makes the husband nervous and your heart pitter patter. The textures were so yummy everywhere and I loved their collage of old and new. They also had the most delicious drink ever just for serving not for sale, Elderberry Italia soda. MMMMMM! Have to see if Whole Foods carries it!

Red does interior design as well and sells fabulous fabrics that I didn't even know existed. I loved their bed linen fabrics that were so soft and luxurious yet modern and simple.

I loved this rainbow chandelier at Things in a Room, a really great quilt store on the main street that carries more chenille and oilcloths than I have ever seen in one store.

Headbands were handmade by me.

Addy's turquoise one is the new Isabella.

Ava's is a new vintage ivory Lyla Rose Headband kissed with a touch of pink. Adding it to the shop today.

Buy One Get One Half Off of Custom Headbands Today!

2010-11-20T10:56:00.000-06:00

Take advantage for today only of Buy One Get One Half Off of Custom Headbands for facebook fans!

Simply join here!

Simply checkout and discount will be refunded to you through paypal!

xoxo

See Shop Here

Photography by Meg Photoshoot!

2010-11-16T09:24:00.000-06:00

I had the pleasure of working with Photography by Meg, who delivered these gorgeous photos to my inbox from such a well planned out photoshoot with hair, makeup, models, and her talent all collaborating to create these gorgeous images of the Kennedy Rose satin fabric flower tutorial and Stella Fascinator Headband found here.

Thanks SO MUCH Meg!

I will be adding headbands available for sale on the blog this week sometime.

Also the free fabric flower tutorial will be on the blog by the weekend!

Free Fabric Flower Tutorial Coming Soon

2010-11-11T07:19:00.000-06:00

My new camera came in last week and I have been in heaven ever since. I have a lot to learn! Wow a photographer's work should never be underestimated in the time, knowledge, and editing that is involved in every single photo.

We celebrated Ava's 5th birthday on Tuesday. Nothing prepared me for how hard it would be for her to turn 5. I have to admit I wasn't excited like I normally am for her to be a year older. I was thrilled to celebrate her birthday but nausious that she is now 5 which is so close to 10 which means anyday she is packing her bags jumping in her car, driving away and heading off to college. I always try to think of all of the good things that will happen throughout my child's upcoming year and be positive but it was really difficult this year. I do love though that as Addy and Ava have gotten older, they have become closer. They really have become bestest of friends. I took Ava to the movies Tuesday afternoon to see Megamind (which was so not a movie for a 5 year old little girl) and she cried the whole way home for Addison saying that she missed her sooo much because we were gone a really long time. So sweet. What else could a mom want? I hope that even when they drift away from being close and have fallouts (bc all sisters do) when they get older they always go back to being friends.

I announced the winner of the giveaway below in the giveaway post. Thanks everyone for entering. Didn't win? I am offering buy one get one free in patterns today and tomorrow to everyone who entered the contest. Just checkout for one pattern on the blog INSTANTLY or in the etsy shop and let me know what pattern you would like for your free one and I will email that one to you!

I have a free fabric flower tutorial coming soon to the blog!

Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods Vintage Ribbon

2010-11-03T05:45:00.000-05:00

I visited the Houston International Quilt Market this weekend on Saturday morning for the first time! I ventured through in and out of several aisles before I came upon Amy Butler's booth. Up until that point, most of the booths mostly had quilting gadgets and patterns and fabrics that weren't really my style. When I found Amy Butler's booth on aisle 700, my heart stopped beating and started racing all at the same time!

Her booth truly was a small square footage of perfection . All of her samples looked like they were all stitched on industrial machines by professionals. She had covered the floor of her booth in whitewashed wood floors. There were two assistants that seemed to be in overdrive mode assisting her fan club that had lined up to place their orders. I was surprised that her fan club was a mixture of both young and older quilt shop owners instead of just the young hip girl. Amy's booth seemed very well thought out and oh so organized. It was easy on the eye to see what she was trying to convey... Soul Blossoms (her new fabric), raincoat pattern (new this year), and the cutest flower pillow ever. I couldn't believe how tall Amy Butler is! She is so chic and has such style.

I accidentally left my camera at home, so sadly I don't have any photos, but I did order my new fabulous camera today! I am so excited to be able to take photos of my girls and get started doing some free tutorials on the blog and more youtube videos. I overnighted it because I couldn't wait! It will be here tomorrow!

This coming weekend is the Houston Internation Quilt Festival, where you can actually buy and shop fabric, felt, notions, machines, and lots of vintage items retail from quilt stores. Last weekend's market was for wholesale orders only from the actual designers. I am not going back to Houston this weekend, but wanted to share with you one of my favorite vendors in the entire Quilt Show that will be there once again this year: Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods. Every time I found her at the Quilt Festival in years past, I would say "Please get a website, oh please!" But no, she only did shows. But now.... she has a website! She travels around the country selling vintage ribbons and trims! I remember the first time I found her. I was in vintage ribbon heaven! She puts all of her ribbon on beautiful vintage wooden spools she has collected. I have purchased so many of her ribbons and trims and have used them for applique, gift wrapping, clothing embellishment, or just kept them for a dose of inspiration in my craft stash. Isn't this peach & gray stash incredible? Click on the image below for the link.

These last two photos are exactly what her booth looks like at her shows. They are courtesy of Decor 8.

Holiday Portrait Clothing and Holiday Cards Giveaway! CLOSED

2010-11-01T23:53:00.000-05:00

WINNER

SQUISHYSANDEE, "LOVE YOUR PATTERNS!! I hope I win for my little LilyBelle."

CHOSEN BY RANDOM.ORG

Vintage Christmas Portrait and Holiday Card Giveaway!

This giveaway has everything you need to dress your daughter for her holiday or Christmas portraits and produce stunning Holiday Cards!

I am so ecstatic to bring you such an amazing array of products from such talented and amazing sponsors.

I first discovered Image Garden Designs' work through Peekaboo Photography's blog. I love how serene and elegant Joell's designs are.

Joell was very kind and generous to offer her:

* Holiday & Multipurpose Square & Scalloped Luxe Card Templates. These are just GORGEOUS! They are a unique template collection full of vintage finds and organic textures and color palettes. Includes 6 customizable templates for 5×5 double sided press printed cards.

Includes instructions and font resources and an "add images" action for photoshop. All fonts used are freeware fonts. Known compatible with Photoshop CS2 and higher. You can find these here on her site.

Joell also offers for sale on her website backgrounds, custom blog and web design, custom photoshop brushes and textures, gorgeous paper packs, vintage frame sets, and so much more. She is also a very talented photographer and you can check out her work on her blog here. I could really spend a fortune on her site!

I am also excited to introduce you to A Child's Touch Boutique owned by the very talented and chic Rory Drysdale. I met her through Etsy. She is very passionate about children's clothing and accessories and it shows in her carefully chosen selection of adorable vintage style items on her website.

Rory is so generously giving away the following from her online children's boutique:

* A pair of Lovely Lacy Vintage Leggings that come in sizes 6-12, 12-18, or 18-24 in black, white, and pink. However, they look more like a capri when worn by older girls! I Love these lacy leggings! Aren't they just adorable? You can find them here on her site.

* A pair of these Ivory Rosette Ballet Slippers in any size. These are sweet vintage-inspired, heirloom quality rosette ballet slippers that are perfect for special occasions, portraiture, or for the every day princess that can be found here. These elegant slippers are hand-made of genuine leather with a gorgeous satin rosette and come in infant, toddler, and children's sizing. The winner can choose any size. These tiny little feet happen to belong to Rory's baby girl and were photographed by Skye Johansen.

For the first time, I am offering to giveaway:

* A custom made Vintage Ooh La La ACTUAL boutique ruffled skirt (not the pattern) just for your little girl out of any holiday fabrics of your choice in any size (12-24 up to size 6)!

To see more photos you can find the pattern here.

* A custom made Audrey Headband (not the pattern) or Audrey Flower Pin of your choice such as in the photo below to attach to a hat in any size!

To see more photos of the headbands you can find the DIY pattern here.

Want to win everything above? You have a total of 4 chances to enter. All you have to do is:

* Leave a comment on this blogpost (counts as one entry)

* Fan SnazzieDrawers on Facebook here.

* Fan Image Garden on Facebook here.

* Fan A Child's Touch Boutique on Facebook here.

Leave some love when you visit their facebook pages!

Giveaway ends Saturday, November 6th at midnight. Winner will be chosen by Random.org.

New Stella Headband Pattern!

2010-10-23T22:44:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone for all of your great suggestions for names of the new dress pattern. I haven't decided yet but do have a few favorites! I am going to try the pattern with cotton too to see how that turns out (possibly a solid). Someone suggested that and I had been tossing that idea around as well.

Addison has been incredibly fussy this week so it has been a very blurry, slow motion week. Ever have those? I wish I knew what was wrong. No teething. No fruit has been given to her (she has a fruit intolerance and can't eat any fruit at all but occassionally Addy will consume a dropped grape from Ava's Chic-fil-a fruit cup). I think she is just being a 2 year old! Her 2nd birthday is Monday! We are taking our little animal lover to the zoo.

I am excited to release the Stella Headband Pattern (the headband in the second to last photo). Wanted to share the new photos from Peekaboo of the Stella Headband and the Kennedy Rose. In the last photo the precious baby girl in the center is wearing a Kennedy Rose single flower on a headband.

More photos will be coming soon of the Stella on an adult from Meg. I actually just happened to be on her blog tonight and she used a Stella Headband in a recent shoot. SO cute!

You can download the patterns here.

Bloom Pillow Contest! CLOSED

2010-10-21T18:55:00.000-05:00

CONTEST CLOSED

I have had this idea for a few weeks and have debated over whether or not to do a contest, but the idea won't go away, so I am just going for it!

Whether you are decorating an apartment, a dorm room, a room in your parents' basement, an enormous mansion, a tiny house, a duplex, a small European country cottage (my dream house), or whatever you call home, you can enter!

How?

Make a pillow or buy a pillow and embellish it with flowers you have made from one of my flower patterns and email me the best photo you have of it (try to take natural lighting photos so all of the detail is visible). You may use as few or as many flowers as you would like and any fabrics or a mix of fabrics!

"What will you win", you ask?

I am giving away a $50 gift card to my shop and I will include a $50 gift card to High Fashion Fabrics (yes, you can use it on their website in case you aren't able to drive to Houston)!

Who will be the judge?

I am trying to recruit judges this weekend so someone other than myself will judge. If I can't find anyone, then I will have to be the judge!

When is the deadline for submission?

Contest ends Halloween night at midnight. Bloom where you are planted!

Here are some pillows I have had my eye on for quite some time to inspire your creative minds!

Love this pillow created by this gal on etsy here.

Fabulous pillow from Peter Jones, an awesome British department store found here. They no longer sell these on their website though.

I adore this bean bag pillow by Pepperlu that can be used as a photography prop.

Once again, another beautiful felt flower pillow sold in London at Peter Jones.

Due to a lack of enough entries in the pillow contest, we are cancelling the contest.

So sorry! Entrants were given a gift card to SnazzieDrawers for entering.

New Dress Pattern in the works!!!

2010-10-16T21:37:00.000-05:00

I am finishing up the Kennedy Rose headband pattern today and tomorrow. I worked on taking photos all day today. Tonight I need to edit those photos, make some headbands for some super sweet gals, get things together for the Bloom Pillow Contest coming soon on the blog and hopefully catch a few hours of zzz in there somewhere.

Next project after the Kennedy Rose? I am working on this dress pattern. Here is a photo of the rough draft. I will likely make a few changes but the dress will be silk, long, "poofy", elegant, perfect for a wedding, photos, or a special event for your little girl. I am really excited since this is the style I love! I wish my girls could dress like this everyday but people would probably look at us strange at Target or the jump house.

Any ideas for names of this dress pattern? I had kicked around Gwyneth or something regal and elegant... Any thoughts?

If I decide to use the name you suggest, I will send you two free patterns!

Also this headband (I used the Kennedy Rose flowers) will be available for sale in the shop!

Thanks Amy for the photos!

In Between the Lines

2010-10-14T13:22:00.000-05:00

Things have slowed down some this week here in the pattern designing although the Kennedy Rose headband will be out soon! I have been filling headband orders and shipping them off. This morning I woke up around 6 and was downstairs on the computer answering an email to a gal that I love chatting with Sarah, TutuChic on Etsy. She makes really beautiful sewn high quality and very "poofy" (Ava's favorite new adjective) tutus that are lined and have such pretty ribbons and detail to them. Since she is a dance instructor and has been a professional dancer, she is truly passionate about her work. She was chosen by Martha Stewart Weddings to have one of her tutus featured next spring! Isn't that amazing? Anyways I think we must have typed 10 emails each the past two days chatting about business and I realized somewhere in between the lines of those emails that even if this all goes away tomorrow this has been such a ride! I also realized somewhere in there typing away to Sarah that I need to stop and truly enjoy the journey of having my own business as I do with enjoying my children. I have really enjoyed getting to know my customers and receive emails from people who have told me what discovering their creativity and hidden skills has meant to them in their life.

Thanks to all of you for your kindness and sharing a tiny piece of your life with me!

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

Thomas Merton

Fabric Flower Tutorial- Kennedy Rose Couture Flower PDF Pattern Released!!

2010-10-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

Kennedy Rose Couture Flower PDF Pattern Tutorial

NEW FABRIC FLOWER TUTORIAL

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$7.50

This is for the pattern to make the flowers out of satin fabric and does NOT include instructions for making the headband. Please see the Stella Headband pattern for the assemblage of the headband.

This flower is for an intermediate seamstress. It is a little more involved than my other flower tutorials. However, I still make no assumptions and every single step includes several photos and detailed instructions.

* 20 pages of photographs and step-by-step illustrations

* Includes measurements to make 5 different sized flowers.

* Requires 1/2 yard of Satin. Recommended supplier and specific fabric requirements are included

* Includes a super fast, super easy tutorial to take the frustration out of turning fabric strips!

These would be fabulous for:

* Shoe clips!

* Headbands and fascinators

* Bridal accessories

* A satin clutch embellishment

* Embellishment on a ribbon or fabric sash for prom, bridesmaids, Bridal, or for a fancy night out

* Dress embellishment

* Pillow embellishment

* A gorgeous pin for your wool dress coat

* Christmas gift packaging

* Baby headbands or clips

* All of these things would make great stocking stuffers or small gifts for loved ones!

INSTANT DOWNLOAD

$7.50

Helmuth Photography Vintage, Beach Session

2010-10-05T09:10:00.000-05:00

Jennie with Helmuth Photography sent these over to my inbox yesterday and I about fell out of my chair! She had a gal make these accessories for her girls for her beach vacation photos using my Starlet pattern. I love how the gal layered three Starlets together in the second photo and the mix of tulle in the first one. I am in love with these lace, vintage dresses too. Aren't her girls so lovely?

I know I don't have the Starlet for sale individually yet on the sidebar for instant download, but it is coming later today!

I know my blog has been going through an identity crisis lately. If you have visited in the past week, you probably saw a different background or banner almost daily. I decided to find something more permanent yesterday and really couldn't find a graphic artist with the vintage style that I was wanting, so I just made my banner myself in Photoshop last night. I am very new to PS, so be easy on me! It was my first creation! I am hooked though, and think this is going to become a new hobby! Please pardon the mess on the rest of the blog. I am a DIY'er, so I am slowly trying to learn how to put the pieces of this blog puzzle together so it looks nice and organized.

Photography by Meg AKA Creative Genius Girl behind a lens

2010-10-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

I am thrilled beyond thrilled to work with the heart and soul behind Photography by Meg with the Kennedy Rose and Headband pattern. Go fan her on facebook to keep up with her.

I am shipping her samples today. I am sending her the one I already showed you in the previous post as well as a Bridal one that is my favorite thing ever if I am can say that. I am going to release the pattern, however, without professional photography later this week and upgrade photos later. I know normally I wait but there are some facebook fans that talked me into it.

Also, guess what? Want a pattern now? I added the patterns to my blog (see right sidebar) where you can checkout through paypal and an INSTANT download will be sent to your email inbox! Awesome right? I am usually pretty fast through my Etsy shop to email patterns out but this speeds it up even more. I am an instant gratification gal myself.

We had a fabulous weekend, all sick at home snuggling on the couch, watching some worthless telly which was actually pretty great since I haven't turned on the TV in months.

Cheers!

Baby Statement Necklace

2010-10-03T08:59:00.002-05:00

Kate Moss sent me this photo that she took of the cutest client ever! This baby girl's Momma made her this necklace from my Duchesse neclace pattern by shrinking the size of the necklace template down before printing. I just adore the lace, vintage shabby colors, and baby girl's adorable little smile.

Thanks Momma for letting me share this!

Longing for more twirls..

2010-10-01T09:46:00.001-05:00

Ava and Addy,

I promise to sew more dresses for you. I promise to dance with you more. I promise to not chase after you with headbands anytime soon. I promise that starting today you will have more ponytails, more homemade cookies, and less Happy Meals (trust me it is better for you the long run). I promise to take you down to the river wading again. I promise to teach you to swim better. I love you...xxoo mom

Birthday Girl Bash Winner Announced!!

2010-09-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I haven't ever enjoyed a giveaway as much as this one because you were all so generous in sharing your best childhood birthday memories. I was so touched by how much your parent's loved you or even how much you have now tried to make up for the lack of memories you have through your efforts with your own children that I have a new motivation like never before to go all out for my girl's birthdays this year. I am really wanting to make their birthday memorable not in what they are gifted but who is there to share it and the thoughtful planning involved in their big day. I loved that most everyone's memories didn't involved much in the material possession that were gifted but were in the time spent with those special to them or those that have now left this life. How wonderful you all are! Thank you for opening up and sharing!

Birthday Girl Bash Winner! Lucky Commenter #102 thanks to Random.org. Sorry I have no idea how to include the actual number generator into the blogpost.I tried and failed. I will get it right on the next giveaway. Heather's comment, "tomkat fan on fb :)" was the winner. You HAVE to read her memory though and be sure to read everyone's because they are all so special!

Here is the best birthday memory Heather has of her childhood,

"when i was a child we moved to florida from indiana. i hated being away from "home" and i missed my family terribly. on my 7th bday, i came home after school, and was told there was something i needed to do in my bedroom. i opened the door and in the dark, walking towards me were two people with their hands out! to me it looked like two strangers trying to grab me! i turned around and ran, screaming! i was completely terrified! it turns out my grandma and my favorite aunt had come for a visit! after the initial horror wore off, it was replaced with pure excitment! my grandma has since passed away, and it is still one of my fondest memories! (oops..i also added this to the wrong comment area a min ago!)"

I am including a photo of my new project, the Kennedy Rose Pattern coming soon!

Fabulous Birthday Girl BASH Giveaway!!

2010-09-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

I am so thrilled to team up with some of my favorite Etsy vendors to bring you the Fabulous Birthday Girl BASH Giveaway!

One lucky winner will receive ALL of the following for her very special princess:

SnazzieDrawers - Ava Felt Flower Pattern

My Ava Felt Flower Pattern is perfect to make for favors for the birthday girl's guests, to make to use on a garland or banner, or to embellish her dress or tee!

SnazzieDrawers - Ooh La La Ruffled Skirt Pattern

Perfect for the DIY party planner! This ruffle technique shown in the photo is so easy and makes ruffles simple!

The TomKat Studio - $30 GiftCard

A fabulous place for DIY printable parties & projects! Kim is now on the front page of MarthaStewart.com! Go Kim!

Sarah Jane Studios - Win Printable Paper Dolls - School Days - THE perfect favor for your girl's party guests. Sarah is also offering 10% off to all blog readers off any purchase!

Sarah Jane is a childhood illustrator, whose work you can see in her first children's book with Nancy O'Dell of Access Hollywood, Full of Life and on her breathtaking website here.

Sweet Pea Baby Designs - Win A Customizable and Printable Birthday Party Invitation - Any age

Nanette aims to please with her adorable graphics and fabulous customer service. She is a great go to for your holiday cards as well! Go here to find her shop!

Strawberry Rose Shop- Win this Sweet Strawberrie Lemonade Posh Petti Tutu Custom Made for your daughter to wear to her party!

Aimee's original posh tutu pettis were inspired by her own precious daughters. She uses only the highest quality premium imported tulle and specialty ribbons in the creation of each posh petti tutu. You can find her here.

DownShadowLane Fabric Online Quilt Shop - Win SugarSnap Fat Quarter Bundle of 7 Fabrics

Jen delivers fabulous customer service and every fabric imaginable for the DIY party planner. I think these fabrics would be so cute to make a birthday banner or applique a birthday tee with! Be sure to checkout all of her fabrics here!

SnazzieDrawers- Turquoise Lyla Rose Headband custom made for the birthday girl!

I can't wait to custom make one of these for the winner! These are also available for purchase in my shop.

Want to be the lucky winner?

Leave a comment on this blog post telling me the best birthday memory you have from your childhood.

Each of the additional things will count as a separate entry into the contest. Leave a separate comment each time you do one of the following.

Fan Snazziedrawers on Facebook HERE.

Fan TomKat Studio on Facebook HERE.

Fan Strawberrie Rose on Facebook HERE.

Fan Sweat Pea Baby Designs on Facebook HERE.

Follow Sarah Jane Studios on Twitter HERE.

Winner will be chosen by random.org. Contest runs Wednesday, September 15th through Wednesday, September 22 at midnight.

The Art of Manipulating Fabric...particulary RUFFLES!

2010-09-14T19:41:00.000-05:00

J.Crew finds

In sewing and dressmaking, a ruffle, frill, or furbelow is a strip of fabric, lace or ribbon tightly gathered or pleated on one edge and applied to a garment, bedding, or other textile as a form of trimming.^[1] A ruffle without gathers or pleats may also be made by cutting a curved strip of fabric and applying the inner or shorter edge to the garment.

Thank you Wikipedia

Want to know all there is to know about making and creating and manipulating ruffles? I highly recommend this fabulous book, The Art of Manipulating Fabric. I keep in close by and read it often. It will blow you away with all of the creative techniques inside or it might make you want to throw away your sewing machine entirely (that was my sister's response to the book :).

Off to dream of these gorgeous creations I have been coveting online...

How to Make a Felt Flower Tutorial New Photos

2010-09-13T18:28:00.000-05:00

I know I have a lot of photos of the Ava Felt Flower Tutorial but there is a big reason for that. I am such a visual person and really love to see something on before I can actually picture myself or my child wearing it. I have a hard time if something is on a baby picturing it on my 4 year old or on my my niece so I wanted to have photos of all different ages of models wearing the Ava Felt Flower.

I am so thrilled with all of the photos I have gotten back from photographers and really enjoyed working some new gals. This was my first time to work with Jennie Helmuth in Grayson, Georgia with Helmuth Photography and I am more than pleased. She is very talented! Be sure to check out her blog. She just shot my favorite boutique line, Lemon Loves Lime. I love all of their fall clothes and accessories!

Thanks Jennie!

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-07T07:43:00.000-05:00

My sis-in-law photographed my girls this weekend. You can find her photoblog here. Kaitlyn and Ava were inseparable. Even when we drove five minutes to the park they had to be in the same car.

AddyKate is getting to be so much fun. I really love this stage now where her personality is really starting to come out more. She is going to be two in October!

" While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about."

- Angela Schwindt

Ultimate Baby Photography Prop Giveaway CLOSED

2010-08-18T07:40:00.000-05:00

WINNER ANNOUNCED THANKS TO RANDOM.ORG

CRISTINA ALT!!!

We are doing an Ultimate Baby Photography Prop Collection Giveaway! Whether you are a gifted photographer, expecting mom gearing up for baby portraits, or a generous friend looking for baby gifts, you can enter to win ALL of the following:

One winner will receive ALL of these items. The total value is $168!!!

*A $50 giftcard to my shop, SnazzieDrawers, which can be used for any PDF boutique patterns or e-books you would like. I design patterns for beginners wanting to create that boutique look! I have a lot of photographer clients who have made some stunning props! The possibilities are endless for handmade baby gifts, Christmas gifts, or birthday gifts!

*A Lyla Rose Headband of your choice from my shop! (Choose from the turquoise, pink, or gold one) - $55.00 value! (go here to see the pattern to DIY!)

*The gorgeous pink Demi Baby Pettiskirt from CheekyChicBaby on Etsy! - $38 value!

This sweet pink creation has a luscious satin waist with two tiers of ultra soft chiffon and a light pink satin bow at the hip! These pettiskirts are super soft and are not made out of scratchy tulle. I ordered a pettidress from her shop for my Ava who is almost 5. It is Ava's dream dress! I HIGHLY recommend her work. I was very impressed with her packaging, detailed workmanship, and quality of materials used. I really want one for Addy now!

*Any chic headband of your choice From HerRoyalFatness on Etsy! - up to $25 value!!

You can see one of Beth's amazing creations above (the yellow and gray headband!).

The most amazing shabby chic hand created satin floret trio in sunshine satin with ivory feathers, teeny tiny bow, and birdcage underlaying veil on a baby super soft gray stretch headband. Beth is also a sweetheart to work with! People always ask me where they can purchase products made using my patterns. You can find her shop here.

How can you enter to win? You can do just ONE or ALL of the things on the list that follows. Each time you do one of these, it will count as a separate entry. The giveaway ends next Tuesday, August 24th at midnight (central time).

*Leave me a comment on my blog!

*"Like" my SnazzieDrawers Facebook fan page (also known as fan me) on Facebook here. You can also get notifications on Facebook of new patterns being released, promotions and all of the inside secrets to SnazzieDrawers in advance of anyone else knowing!

*"Like" CheekyChicBaby's Facebook fan page on Facebook here. You have to checkout all of the awesome photos of her products here! Inspiring!

*Follow me on Twitter (I just set up this account. Going to try to post more here :)

Good luck and have fun!

*"Like" Her Royal Fatness on Facebook too!

Happiness... An optimistic Blossom

2010-08-08T23:40:00.000-05:00

“The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.” - Benjamin Franklin

I have been thinking a lot lately about what it is that makes us happy in life. As I have shared before, my husband Tim quit his corporate job a month ago to help me with SnazzieDrawers. Although he worked for one of the most prestigious and "best companies to work for" in the world, he absolutely hated his job. It was a high stress job and it was not utilizing his talents or gifts. He was merely working for a paycheck and was completely lifeless and depressed because he had worked his entire life to reach this point: The ultimate job at the ultimate company, all to be completely miserable. I refused to let him go another day carrying this load on his shoulders. Life is too short. One of the things that inspired him to make this move was from a video of Steve Jobs (CEO of Apple Inc.) giving a commencement speech at Stanford in 2005. Ironically my husband worked for Apple, but something in his head clicked when he heard this speech. He has never been the same since. I just want to share that link here. If you haven't seen it, please take the time to watch it. It could change your life the way it has changed ours.

Do what you love with your life and happiness will follow. Surround yourself with people that LOVE you and want you to succeed and support your dreams and success will follow.

Here is a photo of Tim at the very top (excuse the Iphone photos) last November at the park while still working his corporate job at Apple. Do you see the guy on the bench in the background? Our kids were loving life playing at Zilker park and there he sat. Grumpy. Exhausted. Absent. This was very indicative of his daily demeanor. I can't blame him at all. I wouldn't have lasted a week at his job.

Months passed and our life has changed dramatically since those dreary days. The second and third photos are of Tim just last night at a bounce house playing with our Ava girl. Can you see a difference? Can you feel it?

What am I happy about? I have my husband back and I am dying to release the Ava Felt Flower Pattern! It's coming soon! I'm sending out packages to photographers this week so fan me on Facebook to get the notification of the release date!

xoxo

My First YouTube Video is Here!

2010-08-03T22:50:00.000-05:00

How to Make Your Own Silk Ribbon

2010-07-16T10:16:00.000-05:00

I have had a lot of requests about where to find the ribbon I used for the Lyla Rose gold headband in the top photo. Truth be told - I actually made my own ribbon out of dupioni silk fabric which I purchased from a local fabric store's home decor department. You can also find great quality dupioni silk on Mood Fabric's website.

I cut the dupioni silk fabric on the bias (see fast tutorial here on an older blog post) to the dimensions stated in the Lyla Rose Headband pattern. That's it!

I recently purchased this antique white silk organza from the Mood Fabrics website as well and was really pleased with the results as shown in the white headband in the second and third photos above. I made this one for Kate Moss with Peekaboo Photography using the Audrey Pattern from my shop. Isn't Kate's baby girl so precious?

Please note that silk organza is a little trickier to cut than other silks so it takes a bit more patience. If you don't want to mess with it, just stick with the other recommended fabrics in the Audrey pattern. I hope this helps!

xoxo

Joy

New Ava Felt Flower Pattern Tutorial Coming Soon...

2010-07-09T04:31:00.000-05:00

It seems to be the norm for artists, designers, crafters, and creative people in general to ignore that the sun goes down and that sleep is kind of required to function the next day when the sun comes up. It's 4:33 a.m. here in Austin, Texas. I am sure that most people on my street are "night night" and there is something I truly love about the silence except for the noise of the insects outside which seems to penetrate the windows of my studio. I know tomorrow I will be exhausted, but I am so excited about a new pattern in progress that I have to blog!

I love the creative process! I am sure the creative process is different for everyone, but for me it really is what keeps me up at night. Whenever I am working on a new pattern, I crave the silence and work all night...many nights. I can't even tell you how many hours go into the design process of even just one pattern. It may look like I knocked it out in a few days, but nothing could be further from the truth. The hours are countless.

So here I am dreaming with my eyes open of an imaginary one-stop supply store that is .5 miles down the street from my house, with all of my favorite things:

1. Gorgeous high quality silk selection of which I would only purchase 1/4" of a yard of because (a.) I wouldn't want a single 1" square to go to waste and (b.) I wouldn't want to break the bank.

2. Rhinestones! I am in love with rhinestones but not just any rhinestones you can find at Joann's or Hancock's or any of the big box places. Oh no, the quality of these really doesn't compare to what you can find at a gorgeous little sole proprietorship shop like the Silk Road (go here new website coming soon!) in downtown Austin. If you ever laid your eyes on these you would never ever be able to return to a big box for any of your rhinestones. They are well worth the few extra dollars and definitely will make your creations stand out above the rest.

3. Trendy buttons and knick knacks for the centers of my flowers.

4. Silk, silk, silk ribbons. The hand dyed ones that get my heart beating faster when I see them. I just love hand-dyed high quality ribbons. Once you feel those and work with them it is impossible to return to poly ribbons.

5. Costume fabrics and nettings. I love nettings and mesh fabrics. They are incredible to sew with because they do not fray. Anything I do not have to hem is fabulous! I personally don't like to hem much. I love the end result of handmade clothing, but anything I can do to simplify the process is wonderful!

6. Wool felt in every single color under the sun.

Speaking of fabulous products, I am working on a felt flower pattern (stock up on your wool felt now!) and I just finished ordering my products. I have been searching for the right materials all week and finally at 4am I found exactly what I didn't know that I was looking for. I can't wait for the mail to get it here fast enough! I am quite impatient with the mail so if that wonderful supply shop I am dreaming about would appear sometime soon, that would be great.

Well "night night". I'm going to try to possibly wind down. It's not that easy for me when the creative process is ignited! Unfortunately, sleep is required. Maybe I'll make a quick stop by my sewing nook for just a minute before I cave in to my eyes closing....

xoxo

I Had to post some fourth of July photos of my girls. They looked so cute in their outfits from Erin on Etsy (find her shop here). Her applique work is amazing! She made a tee for Ava, the cutest ruffled fabric and tulle bloomers you have ever seen for Addison, and her adorable tee. I seriously adore her applique work. It puts every applique tee I have ever seen to shame. It was perfect! I loved the little bows on the shoulders of Ava's tee. So sweet!

Lyla Rose Luxe Fascinator Baby and Children's Headbands.. TAKING CUSTOM ORDERS NOW!

2010-07-02T12:41:00.000-05:00

I have literally turned down so many orders for these I have lost count. I am now taking orders for a very limited amount of time. If you would like to place your oder, please do so on my website here.

I am thrilled to be able to offer these for you!

In other news, the ever talented and amazing, Kate Moss, with Peekaboo Photography

is in print! Professional Photographer Magazine, a very influential digital and print magazine amongst the professional photographers out there and beginners aspiring to such did a spread on Kate and her husband's photography business. Read more about it here! Leave her a comment of congrats! She is so deserving of such an honor!

xoxo

joy

A Little Red Rose

2010-06-28T13:35:00.001-05:00

Ok so I said I was going to write on my blog and I meant it... shooting for DAILY!

I was thinking today about how can we truly throw away negative thinking (recovering pessimist here) and it hit me...

Look for good and the bad will disappear.

This applies to any situation. I want to share a story.

My father passed away when I was 17 years old. The day he passed away is quite possibly the most vivid memory I have of an entire day in my whole life for two reasons.....good and bad.

The bad: I lost my wonderful father. He may not have been perfect, but I know he loved me. As a parent I see things a lot differently than I did at 17. No one is perfect, especially parents! :)

The good: I had not ever in my entire life felt so much love from so many true friends in a single week as I did the week my father passed away. These were friends that drove twenty miles to our little farm in the middle of nowhere and immediately came to our emotional rescue from the grocery store, the hallway at school, basketball practice or wherever they may have been when they heard the terrible news. I have always looked at the bad side of growing up in a small town, but living in a small town can truly be like having a huge family (which can be pretty miserable at times - written from experience, haha!) But during that one week of my life that small town wasn't "like" my family, it was my family. The good somehow outweighed the bad that week.

I can remember a friend who had lost her mother when she was 14 or 15. When she heard the news that my father had passed, she came to my house with a red rose and had contacted some of my very close friends to start a mission of love for me. I am still so grateful to that friend for her act of truly unselfish love. That one little rose might seem so simple, but to me, it was anything but simple. She really understood grief and sorrow at an age she should not have had to.

Life is full of both good and bad experiences but I know from my own experiences that when the bad ones are looked upon with a deeper gaze that we will see a little red rose. I believe negative thoughts can take over our life so much that we never give ourselves a chance because we are so busy failing in our minds before we even try. I am confident that inside each of us exists a well of talent ready to be drawn up and brought to life. You have to look for your little red rose. It is there. Take a closer look.

Speaking of the good and bad...

The good: My little 4 1/2 year old Ava started pre-school a few weeks ago at a wonderful montessori school close to our home and is loving every minute of it! She has made so many friends and is learning so much. She even begs to go to school on Saturday and Sunday!

The bad: I MISS HER! I didn't think I would miss the interruptions during the day while trying work but ohhhh how I sit in my little workroom and think about how I wish she would come in to ask me for something or just to say, "I love you mommy" and give me a huge hug like she used to always do when she was home. I am focusing on the good, I promise!

The positive thinker sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.

Anonymous - ThinkExist.com

Etsy Giveaway Winner Announced!

2010-06-28T07:40:00.000-05:00

Well starting today I am officially going to actually write on this blog. I am a little intimidated to write to be honest. I always think of things to blog about, but then I'm not sure if my thoughts are quite up to par for the blog world so I have always kept it short and sweet on here.

We had a whirlwind of a week last week! SnazzieDrawers has a new full time employee - my favorite person and best go-to friend for a laugh, a shoulder, or a kiss. He is my extremely talented husband! He was successfully employed as an accountant with Apple for their operations in Brazil, but SnazzieDrawers has been growing and and expanding and has a true need for a business operator. SO..... the inner voice inside has been tugging on our hearts for a few months that we should move this business from more of a Joy business to a family business. The end result: We took the plunge!

Tim is very detail oriented, a brilliant writer (creative and technical), a natural at content editing, and now if I could just get him to sew! He did try on one of our Kate headbands the other day which was hilarious. Maybe a photo shoot coming soon? Just kidding! I am the happiest gal in the world! He is home and the kids could not be happier to have Daddy working from home. I truly believe in pursuing our passions and that we can make our life anything we want it to be.

This is how we managed to release two new patterns last week! But in reality this all came to be because of YOU, our customers, who made this possible. I can't express enough how much I appreciate you for supporting our shop, writing me sweet emails, and simply taking the time to let me know what you are making from my patterns! It makes my day!

In reference to making someone's day..... I hope this brightens someone's day out there:

Winning comment for the headband giveaway:

taylor+sophie said...

"Oh please please please choose me!!

I would be so lucky and blessed to win this

beautiful headband!! I recently purchased

some of your patterns and I would love to

have one made by you! Please choose me!!!

I am also your fb friend/fan! Thank you for

the chance to win!"

- Sophiemorgan7@hotmail.com

NEW Kate Ribbon Headband Tutorial Released Today!

2010-06-22T16:35:00.000-05:00

I love ribbon. I have collected it for years long before I ever started sewing. I started my crafting adventures as a scrapbooker who never scrapbooked but loved paper arts and crafts and RIBBON! If you have a stash of ribbon, as I do, you will appreciate a practical and super cute purpose for putting it to fabulous use!

I wanted to create a headband that would be super cozy for even the picky headband adorners such as myself and my 4 year old who can only keep them on for a few minutes because they hurt. I love this pattern because truly I worked and worked on it until it was super comfortable for a child or mom on the go. I wore one today because I had the Texas humid "do" going on and it was the perfect solution to get the flyaways out of my face.

You can find the New Kate Ribbon Headband Tutorial in the shop as of now!

Headband Giveaway!

2010-06-17T11:27:00.000-05:00

I am doing the first ever headband giveaway!

One lucky winner will receive this turquoise Lyla Rose headband in a custom made size for your sweet baby girl or for your photography prop!

How do you enter?

Leave me a comment

Follow my blog

And/OR fan me on facebook!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Snazziedrawers/185660954544

If you do all three you have entered three times. Winner will be chosen by random.

Contest will end Friday, June 25th!

Extended until Saturday, June 26th!

New Audrey Fabric Flower Tutorial La Fleur Pattern Released!

2010-06-14T18:58:00.000-05:00

I love how versatile this pattern is! This pattern includes three different sized templates (small, medium, large) and two headband options (attach to and make your own lace headband and attach to a plastic or metal headband). You don't have to attach to a headband. The sky is the limit on what you can use these for!

THE BEST part of all? This is the easiest pattern yet! My husband is my editor and he was like wow I could totally make this! So even if you haven't ever sewn before rest assured the Audrey is for you! I wanted to create a flower pattern for the gal who hasn't ever picked up a needle but is obsessed with handmade items and loves the one of a kind creations and also for the intermediate seamstress who is looking for a *fresh* *new* way to embellish those gorgeous clothing and home decor items! I want to make a few throw pillows covered in these for the master bedroom.

Parasols for Photography Props and Audrey Hepburn

2010-05-27T12:56:00.000-05:00

I have always had a love affair with parasols since I was a little girl. My half sister's grandmother would make her handmade parasols by removing the umbrella fabric and sewing ruffles on it and then putting it back on the umbrella. I actually never even saw the umbrellas she would make her but just heard stories from family and ever since then I just have yearned to collect pagoda style parasols, ruffled parasols, and lace bridal parasols. My husband might kindof flip out though if all of a sudden I was decorating our house in umbrellas. But how cute would a little umbrella stand by the front door be with a few of these?

I found these on the umbrella maven, Joella's website, Bella Umbrella. Photographers, you can RENT these and they will ship them to you nationwide! I am really trying to plan my children's summer portraits and think one of these ruffled ones would be perfect.

My favorite one is the black and white one with all of the ruffles. It reminds me a little of Mary Poppins taking flight and Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady.

Adorable Photo

2010-05-27T12:52:00.000-05:00

I just had to share these photos of an adorable skirt one of my very talented pattern testers, Courtney (go here to see her blog) created for her daughter.

I just love her choice of fabrics and the contrast is perfect!

Boutique Children's Sewing Pattern No Hem Option Added to Ooh La La Pattern!

2010-05-27T12:17:00.000-05:00

Opening my email to find photos as beautiful as these in my inbox from Kate Moss is better than any present I can think of!

If you have already purchased the skirt in the past and would like the new one, just shoot me an email at Joyestallard@gmail.com and I will send it over for free!

This new addition has been in the works for a few months now to the Ooh La La Skirt PDF Pattern. I have made this skirt numerous times now and my new favorite way to make it is with the no hem ruffles. It saves so much time and looks just as gorgeous don't you think?

I am in creative overhaul with a new pattern coming out sometime between 1-2 weeks.

I will tell you it is a flower and my new favorite flower of all time for sure. It is so versatile and can be made out of any fabric and really still looks fabulous. I feel so green using up so many of my beautiful scraps and vintage finds. I love the upcycling possibilities with this new pattern. I am thinking it has a thousand purposes!

Can't wait to release it!

You will be the first to know!

Off to enjoy an amazingly clean house! In-laws coming for Memorial Day so the timing on that couldn't be better!

A teaspoon of Inspiration

2010-05-16T02:46:00.000-05:00

"What you need to know about the past is that no matter what has happened, it has all worked together to bring you to this very moment. And this is the moment you can choose to make everything new. Right now"

~Author Unknown

Inspirational quote of the day.

I adore this small sentence. My life could not be more evidence of the truth that lies within these quotations. Even my mistakes, setbacks, hard times have all come together to put me exactly where I am at this very moment. I honestly believe everyone can make something new of their life regardless of your current minor or major setbacks. I have learned the major setbacks are especially the most motivating factors in CHANGE. Desire to love your life. Tomorrow this could all be over. What would you do today if it truly was your last? I ask myself this daily.

I wanted to share some really beautiful creations from customers who have reached out and shared these with me.

The first few photos are from Beth with Her Royal Fatness on Etsy. Check her shop out here.

She created the zipper flower using the Starlet hand stitch method but instead using hot glue.

The last photo of the bib necklace that is modeled on Erin with Erinshautetots on Etsy was taken as she was all dolled up and gorgeous for a gala with that special stud in her life, her hubby. See her blog post here for more photos.This is her blog.

Wish you could have shopped with me!

2010-05-16T02:08:00.000-05:00

Chosen by random, Kasie, The Art of Life, is the winner of the blog giveaway! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this vintage birthday girl painting she created for her daughter. Isn't it just the BEST? I just have to have a print for my daughter's room! Please Kasie!

Kasie is very talented and I am excited for her to be the winner! I also snagged the image above from her blog. It is a Zoe Pearn design.

I appreciate everyone for entering the giveaway! It was a lot of fun and your sweet comments and words of encouragement motivated me to work on my new pattern!

I attended the Craft Renegade Fair in Austin yesterday. WOW! Talk about some inspiration! There were over 2oo vendors from all over the country (most of them have Etsy shops). I felt like I found my "people". 200 etsy shop owners all in one building! Ahhh! I loved getting to talk it up with shop owners and see their newest creations and all of their hard work pay off. I also decided I am going to do some travel this next year to a few shows around the country. I really love to travel and love to connect with other crafty people.

I really wish I could meet my customers on Etsy in person to really get to know you all!

What was hot, hot, hot? Fascinators! I didn't see any baby ones though but there were felt, silk flower, cotton fascinator headbands and hats everywhere so get to work on yours and take it to the craft fair because they will sell, sell, sell all the day long and you will be one busy girl (as if you aren't already right?)

I left with a huge desire to create something, wool felt in tow purchased at The Stitch Lab.

I headed over to the Silk Road, which carries the most divine silk fabrics you have truly ever seen in your life!

This is the store where you can find fabric for your wedding party's gowns and even your own bridal gown. It is a small, quaint little unassuming shop but when you open the doors, you venture inside to a seamstresses paradise! She has the best collection of rhinestone buttons from all over the world and silk dupioni in 50 different vivid colors. My newest pattern will be coming out by the end of July. I am designing a children's tutu vintage couture dress. I can't wait to share it! I am in the hunting/gathering stage of design and sketching. I am thrilled because my daughters Ava and Addison will be my little models this time and so I am making them just for them. I am really keeping in mind what a 4 year old loves to wear.

*Twirl....CHECK

*PINK....CHECK

*SPARKLE...CHECK

*FANCY....CHECK

Off to work!

Blog Giveaway Contest!!

2010-05-11T09:56:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do a new FRESH

blog giveaway.

ONE GRAND PRIZE WINNER WILL RECEIVE ALL OF THE FOLLOWING:

*Portabellopixie Sandi Henderson's cupcake pincushion pattern (11.95)

*3 pdf epatterns from my Etsy shop of your choice (19.50 value)

*Free promotion sidebar ad on my blog to run for 1 month linked to your Etsy shop or blog

(25.00 value)

*HUGE FREE FABRIC 1 pound bag of scraps from my stash of all Quilt Shop fabrics- Amy

Butler Love, Sandi Henderson Meadowsweet, Heather Bailey Nicey Jane guaranteed to all be included ($20.00 value)- will post photos soon

To enter to can do one of the following or all three for three chances to win:

Fan me on Facebook

or FOLLOW MY BLOG on the right sidebar of my blog

or leave a comment on my blog!

Simple as that!

Ends Saturday, May 15, 2010 at midnight

Need Photography for your website or Etsy shop?

2010-05-08T03:03:00.000-05:00

My daughter, Ava

Hello my friends. My sista-in-love-and-law :) is a new and upcoming photographer! Watch out world here she comes. She pays very close attention to detail, has incredible equipment, is very dependable, and would love to TRADE! She would absolutely be thrilled to help you with your Etsy biz, website photos, or if you are in the Dallas area photograph your kiddos :). These photos she took of my daughter (which you see whenever you log into my Etsy on my banner and throughout my listings on Etsy) are some of my top fave photos of my oldest daughter, Ava, 4.

She has a beautiful 4 year old girl model and a 2 year old adorable boy model.

She also has a lot of friends with babies :), preggo friends, and kids of all ages and sizes she could recruit for a photo shoot.

Photography is one of the best investments you make in your business!

Here is all of her contact info

Amy Forrest

amyeforrest@gmail.com

www.chateauamour.wordpress.com

Give her a shout out and tell her I sent you!!

How to hand stamp ribbon!! FREE TUTORIAL

2010-05-06T06:54:00.000-05:00

I discovered hand stamped ribbons on Etsy from some fabulous little shop such as A Little Scrappy and Little Laura Stitches. If you don't want to purchase all of the stuff to do this then buy these precious ribbons!

I wanted to learn how to do this myself since I absolutely loved the hand stamped look and use it on everything! See the Duchesse Vaya Couture Bib Necklace pattern sample above. I used hand stamped ribbons I made myself on the Juliette flower and a Starlet as well.

Here is what you need:

*Stamps (I used French Mail set go here to see and i also used this gorgeous chandelier stamp)

I found at Archivers Scrapbook store in Cedar Park but can be purchased here online. )

*Ribbons or fabric scraps cut on the bias (rayon bias tape works fabulous but I was completely

out of stock in my stash after all of the bib necklaces!)

*Versacraft ink pad for fabric- I found here at http://www.stuff4scrapbooking.com/

Step 1: Mount your acrylic stamps onto the acrylic block (purchased separately from the stamps here) or take your wood mounted stamps and dip your stamps in your ink and stamp away!

Step 2: Let dry!

Step 3: Embellish at will! I have used these ribbons on my Duchesse Vaya Couture Bib Necklace,

Lyla Rose Vintage Luxe headbands, wrapping packages, and seriously everywhere I can think!

Here are some more ideas YOU could use hand stamped ribbon for:

*tie around a pillow for embellishment

*straps on a summer sundress for your baby girl

*scrapbook hang tags

*make a statement sash/belt with hand stamped ribbons

*make custom made ribbons for a new mom with baby's birthdate and weight so she could

attach to announcements or decorate baby's scrapbook/memory book

*perfect for bridal invitations if you are a DIY bride, for wrapping a wedding gift, for your bridesmaids on some really fabulous silk hand dyed ribbons or vintage silk ribbon finds

*have more ideas?

Free Craft Etsy business advice....

2010-05-03T06:59:00.000-05:00

I have had a flood of emails from gals wanting to start their own businesses lately.

I had a custom children's clothing business for a few years on Etsy and sold to boutiques.

These are just a few tips I have passed along to gals.

*Improve yourself first. When I started sewing I realized I would have periods of time when I wasn't learning new techniques. This would lead to blase designs and creations. Whatever your craft, choose to learn something new at least once a week or even daily.

*Brainstorm, read, research, practice, sell. Doesn't sell? Start over on this step and try, try again.

*Start SLOW. I personally think where people make their biggest mistake is thinking that if you have 50 different products in your etsy shop that you will be successful. I don't believe that to be the case at all.

Find a product you absolutely love to make, that you would make for free you love it so much and that other people love, love, love. Now make it a few dozen times and perfect it, whether it be an appliqued tshirt, ruffled pants, pincushion, you name it. When it is perfected, sell the ONE perfected item in 2-4 different options of fabrics or colors. Start with listing this in your Etsy shop or wherever you are selling. Listen to feedback from customers on this item and make changes where you might feel you need it.

*Is your one item selling? If not, it could be the photography. Take great photos!

*Don't listen to advice or seek advice from people who are not in the craft industry or even from people who might not have your best interest in mind. Very few, if any, people out there will see the value in hours of work for very little, if any pay in the beginning of your business.

When it comes to business advice, well, just go with your gut or talk to people who are doing exactly what you would like to be doing in a few years.

*Need to make a profit now? Well then definitely don't forget to start slow. The MORE PRODUCTS you add to your shop, the more of an inventory of materials you have to carry in house and each item will cost you.

*Spouse not supportive? Be sure not to neglect your best asset, your spouse. I'm not saying if you are working 40 hours a week on your business, that you have to have to cook dinner every night. Just find what works in your relationship.

*Build relationships with clients and customers.

*Don't forget it is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Enjoy each and every moment of having your own business. It is a wonderful ride! Your pitfalls will be your greatest teacher.

*Keep your chin up! Think positive thoughts and be your own cheerleader. Purge out all the negative thoughts! Who needs 'em?

"To get profit without risk, experience without danger, and reward without work, is as impossible as as it is to live without being born." - A.P. Gouthev

Photos are of my new Duchesse Vaya Bib Necklace PDF EPATTERN Tutorial in my shop!

SnazzieDrawers

Top Hat PDF Pattern and Paper Party Hat Pattern

Beginner's 3 week sewing course: Simply Stitch

Earn 25% Commission from the SnazzieDrawers Affiliate Program

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SnazzieDrawers Dream Big $2500 Giveaway

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Addison's Wonderland Children's Bedding

Lemon Loves Lime Fall 2011

Chubby Cheek Photography Houston, Texas

How to make a Pettiromper: Addison Petti Romper PDF Pattern Release!

La Rue Royale Apron Pattern and Fresh Pink Lemonade Graphics

Re-released from the Snazziedrawers Archive - Très Chic Cake Tee Appliqué Tutorial

Vintage shopping and more!

New Apron Pattern Coming Soon!

Sweet Confections

Ma Chérie Dress Behind the Scenes

Ma Chérie Dress Pattern Release

Round Top Warrenton Four Inspirational Gypsies

New Opal Rose PDF Flower Pattern

Austin, Texas Matilda Jane Online Trunk Show

Ma Chérie Dress Pattern and a New Flower Pattern Coming Soon

New Ruffled Dresses

IMPORTANT Lucia Bella Pantaloons Pattern Update

Vintage Kissed Tea Party

Handmade Crowns

Hello Spring!

Pacific Northwest Love Affair

Valerie Koop Auction ENDS MARCH 1

February

How To Make Custom Boutique Pants for your Children

Vintage Lucia Bella Boutique Pantaloons PDF Pattern

For The Love Quilts Giveaway: CLOSED

For the Love of Vintage Giveaway: Closed

Giveaway Winner:

One Happy Mommom"I was always told as a young girl that "I was a old soul" I always loved vintage, from listening to old music from my mothers 78's & 45's...."chosen by random.org

It is never too late to have a happy childhood...

Isabella La Fleur Pattern

Tinsel Trading 37th Street in NYC

Who inspires you?

Nurture Creativity

FREE Baby Leg Warmers Tutorial

Matilda Jane Giveaway!

Free Rolled Flower Tutorial

Red in Fred Fredericksburg, Texas

Buy One Get One Half Off of Custom Headbands Today!

Photography by Meg Photoshoot!

Free Fabric Flower Tutorial Coming Soon

Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods Vintage Ribbon

Holiday Portrait Clothing and Holiday Cards Giveaway! CLOSED

New Stella Headband Pattern!

Bloom Pillow Contest! CLOSED

New Dress Pattern in the works!!!

In Between the Lines

Fabric Flower Tutorial- Kennedy Rose Couture Flower PDF Pattern Released!!

Helmuth Photography Vintage, Beach Session

Photography by Meg AKA Creative Genius Girl behind a lens

Baby Statement Necklace

Longing for more twirls..

Birthday Girl Bash Winner Announced!!

Fabulous Birthday Girl BASH Giveaway!!

The Art of Manipulating Fabric...particulary RUFFLES!

How to Make a Felt Flower Tutorial New Photos

Labor Day Weekend

Ultimate Baby Photography Prop Giveaway CLOSED

Happiness... An optimistic Blossom

My First YouTube Video is Here!

How to Make Your Own Silk Ribbon

New Ava Felt Flower Pattern Tutorial Coming Soon...

Lyla Rose Luxe Fascinator Baby and Children's Headbands.. TAKING CUSTOM ORDERS NOW!

A Little Red Rose

Etsy Giveaway Winner Announced!

NEW Kate Ribbon Headband Tutorial Released Today!

Headband Giveaway!

New Audrey Fabric Flower Tutorial La Fleur Pattern Released!

Parasols for Photography Props and Audrey Hepburn

Adorable Photo

Boutique Children's Sewing Pattern No Hem Option Added to Ooh La La Pattern!

A teaspoon of Inspiration

Wish you could have shopped with me!

One Happy Mommom
"I was always told as a young girl that "I was a old soul" I always loved vintage, from listening to old music from my mothers 78's & 45's...."
chosen by random.org