tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84266892153001725162024-03-07T20:02:45.729-08:00Romona Sewing JourneyI love to sew....I like making handbags, diaper bags or any type of crafts. I am now starting a journey in garment sewing.Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-48293606707561151232014-02-04T03:45:00.000-08:002014-02-04T03:45:17.861-08:00Music Quilt Wall Hanging<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QW7IlhzhCTI/UvDSN8lEwCI/AAAAAAAAAUg/LvmZ0Gs2siQ/s1600/P1050754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QW7IlhzhCTI/UvDSN8lEwCI/AAAAAAAAAUg/LvmZ0Gs2siQ/s400/P1050754.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5K54aXXsQk/UvDSUtx6TjI/AAAAAAAAAUo/mn2R1-3vzrY/s1600/P1050755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5K54aXXsQk/UvDSUtx6TjI/AAAAAAAAAUo/mn2R1-3vzrY/s400/P1050755.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOXA9Yx9Rc4/UvDSV8uXExI/AAAAAAAAAUw/2K61-y7PmVA/s1600/P1050756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOXA9Yx9Rc4/UvDSV8uXExI/AAAAAAAAAUw/2K61-y7PmVA/s400/P1050756.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPCbZvHWp_A/UvDSkTNy2CI/AAAAAAAAAVI/4sFVGmBykBI/s1600/P1050759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iPCbZvHWp_A/UvDSkTNy2CI/AAAAAAAAAVI/4sFVGmBykBI/s400/P1050759.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Tax3Vta3xA/UvDSna-R7mI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/0Tq054gHsSo/s1600/P1050754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Tax3Vta3xA/UvDSna-R7mI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/0Tq054gHsSo/s400/P1050754.JPG" /></a></div>I worked on the wall hanging for my daughter's birthday. She lives in Nashville and love music. She plays the keyboard, piano, drums and guitar. In her new condo she has a music corner. She needed something to cover the electrical panel. She likes very modern style and her acsent wall is purple. So I tried to find something that might work. This pattern is from Kay Buffington, called Anicent Board Games #38. I embroideried my musical instruments in the center of each white block and then when I quilted I echoed the instrument to make them really stand out. It didn't turn out too bad for my third attemp at quilting. Lots more to learn, but practice makes perfect. Though I highly doubt I will ever master perfection, no matter how hard I tried or how many tutorials I watch. Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-32029328381455038622013-10-04T12:22:00.000-07:002013-10-04T13:17:22.403-07:00<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QaEJ7kw7mA/Uk8iLdl39nI/AAAAAAAAAUI/vYL7ct_4SC4/s1600/firstquiltever.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QaEJ7kw7mA/Uk8iLdl39nI/AAAAAAAAAUI/vYL7ct_4SC4/s320/firstquiltever.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6eIssT4cINg/Uk8iPxNIQKI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/F-ijXc4zO4E/s1600/firstquiltever.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6eIssT4cINg/Uk8iPxNIQKI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/F-ijXc4zO4E/s320/firstquiltever.jpg" /></a>Well it has been a very long time since I posted anything. I guess I am just a stocker on other blogs and not real good at my own. I have been sewing. I made several knit dress for work over the summer. I also made a few tops. Nothing worth showing pictures of to anyone. I am still working on fitting my body. I purchased a few classes on fitting on Craftsy, one with Barbara Deckett and I loved her way of showing fitting. She is plus size and understands the need to adjust patterns differently for different body types I purchased two more classes - Sewing the Perfect Fit by Lynda Maynard and The couture Dress by Susan Khalje. I can't comment on these classes as I haven't even viewed them in full yet or tried out the method. That is on my list to do soon. I have been sewing for a while now. I have made purses, clothing and crafts, but never a quilt. I started cutting out and piecing a log cabin years ago. I decided I needed to get back out and finish. It is my first every attempt to cut, piece and quilt. I must say it isn't perfect. I have lots of errors thru out the quilt, and many different size of square because I guess I need to be more precise with my cutting, sewing the 1/4" seam allowance and pressing. However, I figured, I worked hard at cutting, spent tons of time sewing my squares and also spent too much money on my fabric to let it just sit. So I finished the quilt and decided I would take it to someone to have it quilted by a long arm quilter. I found a newly opened quilt store in may area called "The Quilt Tree, LLC" and spoke with the owner about quilting. It cost me a little more than I wanted to spend on a quilt that wasn't perfect, but I went ahead with it anyway. Last night I picked it up. I must say from far away it is very pretty, but when you look closely you see all my mistakes. The quilter was quick to point out my mistakes and tell me she had a hard time quilting because of my seam allowances and my pressing. I felt so bad, and actually felt a little stupid from what she said about my quilt. My first reaction was put the quilt away and not show anyone, and never step foot in the shop again. Maybe I am not a quilter. But then after thinking about it for a while, I decided, yes it wasn't perfect, yes I have lots to learn and maybe it was a waste of money, but I can only get better. So I am going to focus on my cutting, sewing of 1/4" seam and my pressing and hopefully my next quilt will be better. I did attend a beginners quilting class at this new little quilt shop, and I did learn some, but not much more than I read in books. I tried not to let the teacher/owner make me feel stupid about all the more that I know about quilting, but that was hard. She really focused on a certain few in the class that she new and me and some of the others was just there filling up a chair. I really want to find a group of sewers to join and feel comfortable attending and feel welcome. Maybe there is no such thing. Maybe it is just me, and how I perceive how I am being treated. But I can't say I had a great time during my class. I just wonder if any other beginner quilter has encountered people that make them feel inadequate and not able to sew. I am just curious. Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-79292730266297034092013-03-06T05:40:00.000-08:002013-03-06T05:40:23.294-08:00Bella's Sleepover PartyMy daughter recruited me to make something for the sleepover party for favors. After much thought and lots of searching I came up with embroidery applique pillowcases. I have to make 8-10 different pillowcases. I have a Brother PE770 so I started to search the web for designs. The theme of the party is Hello Kitty. I found a wonderful pillowcase on etsy at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93538958/hello-kitty-flower-power-in-pink?ref=sr_gallery_40&ga_search_query=Hello+Kitty+Pillowcase&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=3&ga_search_type=all"></a>
So I began to look for the Hello Kitty Design, alphabet, flowers, and butterfly designs. I found them on etsy. The Hello Kitty came from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MyIttyBittyDesigns?ref=seller_info"></a> ,
the alphabet from
http://www.etsy.com/shop/RivermillEmbroidery?ref=seller_info
the butterfly and flowers was from
http://www.etsy.com/people/SewChaCha
I went to Walmart and purchased pink pillowcases and started. Well the test one was my grandaughter's and it turned out great, failed to take picture though before I gave to her mother to approve. Last night I made the second pillowcase. It took about 4 hours to figure out placing and stitch out and move hoop to new place and stitch. I do not have any software for editing, so I had to do each letter one at a time, and move the hoop. I didn't get the placing exact, so hopefully I will get better in time. I really think the girls will like them though.
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Last year for the birthday party I really went all out and made:
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It took me forever in a day and I decided they really didn't appreciate all the hard work, so I didn't want to go to such extreme this year.
I haven't posted much, but still sewing. I made several tops not quite finished yet. I sew while I embroidery so I don't feel like I am wasting time.
My grandson had surgery on his thumb. They had to remove the thumb that was not connected and move his index finger to be his thumb. Bless his litte heart, he is only one year old and has had so much happen in his life. But he is so cute and so pleasant. I just love him to death.
Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-3807498186903900402013-02-10T13:44:00.000-08:002013-02-10T13:44:33.946-08:00I haven't posted in a while. I really havent been sewing much. I did sign up for a class on Craftsy - Sewing for Plus Sizes with Barbara Deckert. So far I really am enjoying the class on-line, but I really am not that far into the class. Today I talked my husband into helping me make a tape dress form. It took us 4 hours, and it turned out alright. But OMG, when I seen what I looked<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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like, I could have puked. I really have left myself go. I think I need to seriously try to take off weight, both for my appearance and for my health. My sugar has been out of controll, and if I took off weight, it might help it go down without medicine. Anyway, here is what I actually look like, and boy am I ashamed to even share, but I am who I am.....
Don't I like a bumble bee...I have the same shape as my grandmother did. Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-69464444489711119252013-01-20T14:30:00.000-08:002013-01-20T14:30:26.267-08:00Lazy SundayNot much sewing going today. I am babysitting my grandson that is 1 year old. He keeps me stepping, currently taking nap so I am playing on the computer so I can make sure he doesn't fall off the couch. Yesterday Bella and I had our second sewing lesson. I had went to JoAnn Fabrics and purchased 5 Learn to Sew Patterns for little girl's and some valentines material. Of course she wasn't fond of what I picked, but we used it anyway. Note to self, take her with me when buying patterns and fabric. Even at 9 years old they are extremely pickie. We finally agreed on which pattern to use that wouldn't be too hard. I made her cut the pattern out, which she did a great job. Then we proceeded to layout pattern on material. I showed her how to pin the fabric to the fabric. I haven't yet given up pins for weights, maybe something I might do in the future. She cut out the fabric all by herself. I read the instructions to her and tried to explain each step. Of course I had to guide her every step. But she learned to pin material, sew straight lines and also learned how to gather material and sew. She made a mistake so she also used the seam ripper. She thought that was cool, wait a little while and I am sure she will hate it, like everyone else. She had a hard time inserting the elastic, I had to help her, but the skirt turned out cute. Her only complaint was it was too long. So next time, we will shorten. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I worked on my pattern again for the last shirt I made. The ladies on Pattern Review made a view suggestions. So I decided to re-trace the front again and start all over. I cut the self facing off as suggested. Then I made a Full Bust Adjustment and added a dart, to fit a little better in the front and reattached the self facing of the cowlneck. I then did a rounded back adjustment. So now I have done a full back adjustment and a round back adjustment. Hopefully these changes will add length to the back, make the front fit nicer and the cowlneck not to be so low. I did cut out material again that I got a JoAnn's 50% of red tag so I only paid $10 for the material, so if it doesn't turn out I won't be out alot. Though I probably will end up wearing even if it doesn't fit perfect. Went to Doctor yesterday about my diebectic and they put me on more medicine and said I must exercise for at least 45 mintues a day. So I am really going to try to listen. I hate taking so much medicine. I need to lose weight and that would help my sugar count. Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-60651938510805667432013-01-15T05:08:00.001-08:002013-01-15T05:08:19.573-08:00I actually went to my sewing room tonight and sewed. My husband had to work over at work and didn't get home until 9:00 pm so I was home alone.
I had already cut a top using McCall's 6612 which was the pattern used on the last top. For my first top I added 1" above the waist line to bring it down to my waist. I also added 1/2" to the front and back seams at the sides, and 1/2 to each side of the sleeve seams, tapering down to nothing at the elbow, they are 3/4 length sleeves. I originally did the side seams as view A with the fabic at sides to create a rouching up on the sides but just didn't like the look on me, so I took out the elastic and shortened it alittle more. But I found the top was a little tighter than I liked and it felt uncomfort on me. Looks great on the dress form, just not on me. So I made the following changes.
I decided to do view B because I didn't like the rouching. Ishortened it to be tunic length about 19" from arm whole. The last top I made was a little tighter than I like my tops, also the shoulder was not wide enough for my shoulders. The pattern pieces for the top front is different and I am not sure how to add to the shoulders, do a FBA that I really think I could use. This is the front pattern piece:
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The top portion of the pattern folds down so that the cowl neck is lined in the same fabric. The shoulder meet when completed.
Because I didn't know how to make a FBA I decided I would try to cut the seam allownce and move out 1/2" on the complete side. I thought this might work....did not. Made my cowl neck really big, but did not increase the shoulder with. I also added 1" again above the waistline so the waist would hit where it was suppose too. However with this pattern it really wouldn't matter, there is no waist. But I needed the length. I proable should have just left waist alone and added to the bottom, but not sure about that thought. On the back piece I needed some more room, so I cut pattern and added 1/2". See picture..
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I also left the 1/2" on both side seams of the front and back. I raised the back of the neckline about 1/2" because I didn't like how low it fit on my back neck.
This is the second finished top...
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As I look at the pictures, I need to go back to re-think all my alterations. Adding to the front didn't do much but make my cowl neck hang really low. I must where a cami under or I would be showing the girls all day. The back is shorter than the front. Off me, it is good, on me it is bad. So I have to figure out how to add to the back but keep it the same as the front on the sides...Not sure.
Purchased fabric from Fabric.com
2.5 yards @ $3.99 only used about 2 hards because of the long front piece.
Material is a ITY and very slinky and a little harder to work with
Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-13922272638120729662013-01-13T14:18:00.001-08:002013-01-13T14:18:41.073-08:00Bella's First Sewing LessonThis Christmas I purchase my grandaughter her first real machine. She is nine years old and really just wanted a toy Hello Kitty sewing machine. I felt if I was going to try to teacher her to sew, we needed a real machine. However, she wanted something cute. I started my search on machines, and I fell in love with the Hello Kitty sewing machine. It ran $250 and I just couldn't justify paying this kind of money for a 9 year old. I recieved an e-mail from my Babylock dealer that I could purchase the BL9 for less than $100. That was doable. But how can I make it cute? A lady on Pattern Review suggested Hello Kitty stickers. I found some vinyl stickers at Walmart that are removed, that would do the trick. This is what I came up with....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We started our sewing lesson. I worked with her before on making doll pjs, but this time I purchase a book "My First Machine Sewing book" by Winky Cherry. We looked at the book, I showed parts on her machine and what they are called and what they do. The book has different line drawaling, that you sew without thread and try to stay on lines. That shows them how to move fabric and sew straight. She got bored after about 20 minutes so we started to sew with material and will pick up the lessons again.
She made pants for her 18" doll from pattern Simplicity 5733 which was very easy and a quick sew. We had a good day, with only one fatality. She let the pressure foot come down on the outside of her finger, leaving a blood blister
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I did cut out another top and it is awaiting me to finish. I tried added a little to the back and sides so it will not be quite as tight. We shall see.....Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-39322747460773345152013-01-05T09:43:00.000-08:002013-01-05T09:43:02.735-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First completed top since the New Year....<br />
I made McCall's 6612 which is a very easy pattern. I made view "A". However, I shortened as a tunic to where with pants. I also added about 1/4" to side seams so it would not fit so snug. The pattern was very, very easy. I used a ITY knit, and awful blue that I had in my stash. I wanted to see what the style looked like on mysef since it had some good reviews on Pattern Review. The material I used snagged very easy, and when I tried on before it was finish it got a run in the material around the arm whole. You can't see it when it is finished, but I know it is there. I also think that the solid color is a little boring,and definately needs some type of belt to break it up and some jewelry of some sort. I like the pattern, but around the shoulder area it seams a little tights. Maybe it needs a Full Back adjustment for my figure. The sleeves are quarter lenght and I think I could add a little to the sleeve so it wouldn't be so tight. I think I would like to try to make again out of better material and make some adjustments because it would be a great top for work. I don't think I would wear a dress, but I really do like maxi length I see on everyone.<br />
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Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-13449488969719384522013-01-01T17:15:00.000-08:002013-01-01T17:15:22.939-08:00Happy New Year 2013<br />
My husband and I are not big partiers, and we just stayed home and watched TV and slept the New Year in, but during the day my daughter's and their family came in for pork and kraut. We had a nice visit, but the baby got sick and threw up, so that put a little damper on the day. The flu is awful around here, everyone you talk to have been sick or are sick. So let's hope we all don't get sick. Epecially since tomorrow if my first day back at work after the Christmas vacation. At least I only have three days to work, short week. I should be able to make that right...<br />
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Any way I cut out a top from McCall 6612 view A. Though I shortened quite a bit to make it more of a tunic. I added about 1/2 to the side seam so it wouldn't be real tight. I hope it works. The neck is really different, but I think I may like it. I love the drapy neckline. I used some knit I had in my small stash. It won't be much of a loss if I hate it, and need to make adjustments for the next top. I really am not fond of the color, not sure why I bought, probably because it was cheap. I will post when I actually get it sewn up. I plan to sew a little tomorrow night. Hubby is off all this week, so we will see how much sewing I get done.<br />
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I just got done ordering some stablizer from a new place called Red Rock Threads out of Nevada. My girl friend got me a gift certificate on line from them so I could get some thread or stablizer. I decided to purchase stablizer since I was almost out. Hope they are a good company since I have never heard of them before.<br />
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Until tomorrow....Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-63074970477011348262012-12-31T11:30:00.002-08:002012-12-31T11:30:45.195-08:00Feeling bad today.....<br />
Becky my youngest daughter left to go home to Nashville today. She won't be back home now until summer. I really wish she would not have moved but she has a great job she loves, friends and a new apartment. She is very happy and love city life. <br />
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I was off work all week, but I sewed very little, because I wanted to spend as much time with Becky before she left. So today instead of sitting around feeling sorry for myself I went to my little she cave and sewed. I made tow pincushion thread catchers that I found instruction on the internet at DIY Gift Ideas. The pattern was from MerrimentDesigns.com. I followed the instructions closely, but did not use the doorhinges suggested for weight because I didn't want to go to the store. Instead I had some small scented beads you put in crafts and I used this to weight it done. It isn't the best, but it worked. If I would make them again, I would rethink this weight issue. I didn't have any plastic cloth line with webbing, so my husband had some small covered wire that did the job. This pattern is so easy, and I am hoping to not have so much threads on the floor. Now I just have to train myself to use them. I also need to be more careful with my top stitching as I used white thread and it shows, but they are only for my use so no biggie. I think they would make cute gifts for anyone that sews and they are very easy.<br />
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After sewing a couple up, I decided I now need to organize my she cave and get it cleaned up so I can start a new project. Here are a couple of pictures of my she cave that I love to get lost in. Not real big but does the job.</div>
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Now I am going back upstairs to my she cave and figuring out what to start next. I have that dress on my dress form that need hemmed, sleeves hemmed and then it will be ready to wear. Not real sure I like it yet. Until tomorrow. Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-22565301074029011372012-12-29T17:15:00.000-08:002012-12-29T17:15:03.838-08:00Starting the Year AnewWith the new year approaching, I have been thinking about the last year. I started my blog to post my sewing journeys, but I have not really updated very often. So with the coming year I hope to sew more, post often and really try to enjoy life, family and friends. This past year had many happenings. A little over a year ago I had my third grand child born on December 21st. He is a joy, but with many physical problems. Since his birth he has had 5 surgeries and has three left. Then all should be great. He is just a good baby, and always smiling even after surgeries. My other two grandchildren are growing up so fast. My oldest grandson is such a little man. He doesn't like my hugs and kiss anymore.....but he love to help and enjoys visiting often, playing hockey and skating, riding his motorcylce and just hanging with friends. My only grandaughter is wonderful. I bought her first real sewing machine for Christmas and plan to try to teach her how to sew. She is such a little girl, love glitz and glitter and all the girlie things in life. She dances and skates. My youngest daughter moved to Nashville in September and broke my heart. However, she calls daily and came home for Christmas for an entire week. Loved having her home and visiting. I will hate to see her leave because I know I won't see her again for quite sometime. Thank God for internet, cell phones and such to keep in contact and hear about her life. She loves her new place, her new job and her new friends. Knowing this, makes it much easier to accept. She keeps telling me I still have my other two daughters, and I am thankful I do, but it still hurts me to see her so far away. We are aready planning a trip for the beginning of February to visit her. My other girls have their own families, and are very busy with work and their children, though they are only a couple miles from home, I don't see them often, but we talk all the time. My husband's place of employment was shut down at the end of November. Thankfully, he was able to transfer but now has an hour and half drive. But he is working and that is all that counts. Now I have about an hour of alone time after work to do as I like. I think I am going to start the first of the year, to come home from work, get supper started and exercise half hour before he gets home, then I want to sew at least half hour daily. That is at least my goal. I want to post my projects as I finish them and I want to have some goals. I have to think about them and actually write them down so I can see my progress. I know one thing for sure, I want to sew more this coming year. I also feel the need to get closer tot he Lord this year. I have turned my back on my faith lately and I need to ask for forgiveness and start a new and have faith. Since I lost my brother, and all the bad things that have been happening late with family and the world, I just have gotten cold and I need to get back on track this year in my walk with the Lord. So until tomorrow.....<br />
Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-1668391615395704502012-06-25T08:39:00.001-07:002012-06-25T08:44:11.956-07:006-21-12<span xmlns=""></span><br />
Well it has been quite a while again since I blogged. So much has happened since that time. My grandson now 5-1/2 months old had major bowel reconstruction was in Children's Hospital for 7 days and then now just has to have follow check-ups every week. He did great and is so cute. Still can't sit on his behind yet. Below my oldest daughter and Mason. <br />
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Last Friday I took my grandchildren to the Pittsburgh zoo. What a fun day. We saw everything, though some of the animals didn't look the healthiest which disappointed me. It was so hot that most of the animals were not very active, though we did see the lion's up close, and the seals really liked the children at the glass and kept trying to bit them. Half way thru the zoo we stopped for some ice cream and rest. Below is a picture of me and my grandchildren.<br />
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A lot is going on with my youngest daughter, she got engaged, then her fiancé' broke the engagement off. This devastated her and she has been very depressed and negative since. Look how excited she looked when she came to show us the ring…I could just cry….So if anyone knows of a 26 year old male in the Pittsburgh Area that needs a good, hard working girl, she is available. It is so hard for young adults to meet nice guy in this day and age.<br />
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She just got a raise, promotion and such and I ask her if she was excited, and she said she was indifferent…go figure. She has been doing so exciting things. She purchased a new bike this summer. And she went ski diving. Below is some picture. <br />
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Sky diving pictures, which I can't post because they are copy righted.<br />
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I have been sewing. I made three skirts from the Colette book with the scalloped edge, and all was too big. I gave them to the thrift shop. I am going to try again to get the fit. How can a skirt be that hard? I made three Butterick dresses – B5602. If I ever get the fit right, I will post picture. I did make several more diaper bags from my favorite pattern – Simplicity 4202 which I have made too many times to count. I am in the process of making for another shower gift. This was the last completed gift. I made diaper bag, boppy, blocks, blanket and shoes. The new mother loved it. See pictures below:</div>
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I also sold two of my sewing machines and got two new ones. I purchased a Babylock Smphony and Babylock Imagine. I haven't yet decided if I like them. I had a Janome/Kenmore 19606 which I absolutely loved, but thought I need a bigger better machine. Not sure if that was smart. I had a Brother 1034D which was fantastic and I used all the time. The Imagine replaced this machine. I still haven't decided if I like my new machines or not. I found that the Symphony does not like thick material, so not good for my diaper bags and hand bags. That is what I like to sew, so I might have to pull out my really old Kenmore and use, since I sold my Kenmore/Janome which went thru thick material like a breeze. <br />
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Well I think I have caught up on what is going on in my life….so until later.Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-69580931076327466372012-04-16T12:58:00.007-07:002012-04-16T13:22:22.867-07:00Lost from Blogging but going to put forth an effort to post again<div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wno14sVMrA8/T4x9F_cwJXI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/kC3XmMmENwE/s1600/P1040886.JPG"></a>I decided awhile back to start a blog to track my sewing over the year. I haven't been very successful at blogging. I read everyone elses <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-neu6OncdCCc/T4x8s_1tlnI/AAAAAAAAAJs/oJVZHuGd9u8/s1600/P1040805.JPG"></a>blog and think I want to do the same, but I don't. I guess I feel I <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9_BeB9z8zY/T4x9fwys2TI/AAAAAAAAAKE/4i9l6N8Fe-Q/s1600/2nd%2Bmason%2Bbunny%2Bears.JPG"></a>have nothing to comment on, but then I need to remember this blog was for my benefit, to track my sewing progress, so I need to just remember that and just write more often, especially after I have completed projects. <br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-neu6OncdCCc/T4x8s_1tlnI/AAAAAAAAAJs/oJVZHuGd9u8/s1600/P1040805.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732093538228606578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-neu6OncdCCc/T4x8s_1tlnI/AAAAAAAAAJs/oJVZHuGd9u8/s200/P1040805.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Since My last post I have been sewing. I actually made twenty small totes that I embroidery, with notebooks and cosmetic bags for my grandaaughter's birthday party. It was such a cute party. My daughter teaches cosmotology at a vo-tech and had the party in her room. They invited about 20 little girls and they each had a pamper day. They got hair, finger nails and toes done at the party. Their favor's was my totes. Each girl was present one when they left. </div><br /><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wno14sVMrA8/T4x9F_cwJXI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/kC3XmMmENwE/s1600/P1040886.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732093967620646258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wno14sVMrA8/T4x9F_cwJXI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/kC3XmMmENwE/s200/P1040886.JPG" /></a><br />I also worked on another diaper bag for my daughter's best friends baby shower. I made her a boppy, blocks, shoes and a toy for the inside. It was so cute.</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>In between this I have been working on a quilt that I started about 5 years ago. I am determined to finish it someday.</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Now I am making curtains for my daughter's kitchen. Nothing fancy, just simple country curtains.</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>I haven't made much progress on my fitting and clothing goals, that is still something I must work at yet.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9_BeB9z8zY/T4x9fwys2TI/AAAAAAAAAKE/4i9l6N8Fe-Q/s1600/2nd%2Bmason%2Bbunny%2Bears.JPG"></a></div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9_BeB9z8zY/T4x9fwys2TI/AAAAAAAAAKE/4i9l6N8Fe-Q/s1600/2nd%2Bmason%2Bbunny%2Bears.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 150px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732094410362771762" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9_BeB9z8zY/T4x9fwys2TI/AAAAAAAAAKE/4i9l6N8Fe-Q/s200/2nd%2Bmason%2Bbunny%2Bears.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Since my last blog, I have a new grandbaby, Mason who is just the cutest thing you ever saw now 3-1/2 months old. He has some small issues, but will be fine. May 7th will be his second surgery on his bowel. He will have two more surgeries that we know of before he is a year old....but he is doing great....love him so much.....</div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjw_iEJ9s1k/T4x-0DEgrBI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/gSaT05gKnWc/s1600/P1040792.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732095858378320914" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjw_iEJ9s1k/T4x-0DEgrBI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/gSaT05gKnWc/s200/P1040792.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>I did make him a cute little hate....but it was way to big.....</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-71045529663592891422011-12-20T12:31:00.000-08:002011-12-20T12:53:27.152-08:00Showered with Monkey's Baby showerRecently we had a baby shower for my oldest daughter. She is having a baby boy on December 21st. Her theme for the shower was of course monkeys. She has always loved monkeys. I had such a grand time bring the decoations together. I searched the internet for applique monkey's that I could use with my embroidery machine. I first started out making a rag quilt that I appliqued monkeys on squares and then pulled it all together with square of flannel recieving blankets that matched her cribbing. It turned out alright.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481676449/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481676449/in/photostream</a><br />Forgive the side way picture...<br />Then I decided to start my decorations. I used the same applique to make my center pieces. I made mini diaper cakes. However, I used hand towels instead of diaper. Then I game them away.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481680945/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481680945/in/photostream</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346609495/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346609495/in/photostream</a><br /><br />They took a long time to make since I had to make two per centerpiece and sew together. I used a dowel rod then in the middle to hold the applique. They turned out beautiful and everyone loved them. <br /><br />I then made a diaper wreath....<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481677473/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481677473/in/photostream</a><br />again sorry for the side photo...don't know how to change it once it is uploaded to flickr.<br /><br />I hung it on the door as you came into the shower. I loved it. It was so easy to make and it was a useful gift for the mommy.<br /><br />I then decided I needed more decorations.....I guess I started way to early, because I kept doing more and more....<br /><br />I made a diaper cake and a diaper motorcycle. The motorcycle was so fitting for the mommy and daddy since they ride harley's. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346608899/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346608899/in/photostream</a><br /><br />back view..<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6347358200/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6347358200/in/photostream</a><br /><br />front view....<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346608461/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6346608461/in/photostream</a><br /><br />yes...I did make the monkey's also. I gave them away to the youngest attending the shower....do you know how hard it is to find a monkey pattern. I search the internet for hours on end to come up with a vendor that had a pattern, Funky Friends Factory and it is so easy to make. Love it......thanks<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481684437/in/photostream">http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryheckman/6481684437/in/photostream</a><br /><br />Cake was also fun to make.....<br />I made favors that I stamped with monkey and put in candy that I made labels with monkey on and baby name and put in the bags with a poem on the back.<br /><br />I had monkey cookies and banana cookies for each one attending. They were so cute.<br /><br />Now the sad part.....my middle daughter was so upset that I did so much for the baby and didn't do the same 8 years ago when she had a baby. I felt bad when she reminded me, but in my defense, I didn't have my embroidery machine, I didn't have the time or the money to do it back them......<br /><br />If you decided to do a baby shower for your daughter, have fun and enjoy as much as I enjoyed the plan of the shower. It was great.....Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-70009089315131857622011-09-01T04:19:00.001-07:002011-09-01T04:26:09.212-07:00Missing in action but still sewing<span xmlns="">
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<br /><p>Well I haven't posted in a very long time. That doesn't mean I haven't been sewing. My youngest daughter went on a cruise the past July. I made her a total of 6 dresses and three tops for her cruise. The same daughter's best friend got married and I made her an apron, casserole carrier and potholders for her bridal shower. Now my oldest daughter is pregnant dues January 11, 2012 with a baby boy. Do you know how hard it is to find maternity clothing and sewing patterns? She is a nurse and needs uniforms. We found 2 maternity uniform tops. So now my goal is to make her some uniforms. I made her two so far and still am not happy. I have three more cut out. My middle daughter also must wear uniforms and she is a plus size, so I plan to make her some uniform tops. I have not been sewing for myself, but I am still sewing. I also am busy reading all the sewing blogs out there. I love what everyone is doing. You are such an inspiration. Thank you for taking the time to blog and make tutorials. Catch you again hopefully sooner than later.</p></span>
<br />Romona Sewing Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13214103718058094054noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426689215300172516.post-57029554932610729932010-06-11T19:33:00.000-07:002010-06-11T19:47:36.905-07:00The beginning of my JourneyToday is the beginning of my journey of blogging....
<br />I started sewing approximately a year ago with making hand bags. I love making different patterns, quilting my material and assembling the bags. I have made many lovely bags for gifts and I sold about 20 bags to different people. Funny thing about me making purses, I do not have one for myself. Each purse was either given away or sold. So I guess I better start making a purse for myself.
<br />Though now I am taking a different road. I am trying to learn to sew and fit for myself. I have found it is much harder than making purses. Though I plan to practice, practice to become better. I just joined a web site <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/">http://sewing.patternreview.com</a> and hope to make many friends on the site. I also am a member of <a href="http://www.perfectsewandfit.com/forum/index.php">http://www.perfectsewandfit.com/forum/index.php</a>. What a wonderful site. So many tutorials on every step of sewing, and individual help in fitting by the most wonderful lady.
<br />I am now working on a tunic top and some pants/shorts. I plan to post my work as I go continue on my journey for help from experience sewing experts.
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