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Sunday, April 30, 2017

Saturday, April 29, 2017

Pattern Making For Jacket and Coat Design

Earlier this past week, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet and interview Pamela Vanderlinde. Not only is she an accomplished designer, she teaches at both the Illinois Institute of Art and the School of the Art Institute. 

She recently published a book on jacket and coat design. This is a book for the modern designer who would love to have the knowledge to create beautiful jackets and coats. Hear all about it in the interview below. 



Now that you've seen the video, you know that Pamela is not only making a difference in the fashion world, but reaching out and working with the Andean women of Peru. You can find their website HERE

Pamela's book, Pattern Making For Jacket and Coat Design is a must for anyone interested in developing and designing coats and jackets. You can find it HERE on Amazon. 

If by chance you can make it to Chicago the first Saturday of June, Pamela will be speaking to the Haute Couture Club at our June Banquet. Once the registration form is up on the website, I'll let you know. This is an opportunity that you will not want to miss!

Pamela hopes to get her blog updated soon. Be sure to pop over as there is more on her blog that we did not cover in the interview. You can find her blog HERE. You'll see that Pamela is truly a very deep well of inspiration. 



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Wednesday, April 26, 2017

The Wednesday Showcase

It looks like the storms will soon be rolling in to Chicago. My Gracie absolutely hates rain, or being wet in any way for that matter, so she is safely sitting behind my chair, tucked into the corner. When Little Bit was still alive, and I would take the dogs to the beach, Little Bit loved everything about the water, chasing the little birds, running through the water. Gracie would be in the dunes, as far away from the water as she could be. God forbid her toes got wet! :)  

As I've said in the past, the Wednesday Showcase is typically reserved for those who are following my blog. Just a little way of saying thank you, thank you, thank you :) But, there are times when something comes up that I just have to share. Such is the case today.

If you don't know Tracy of Tracy's Sewing Studio, then you are in for a big treat! Not only is she an incredible sewist, she's an artist.

Her husband is a master brewer for Yellow Springs Brewery, and they recently rebranded their cans. Tracy was inspired, and you won't believe what she did!


She cut butterfly shapes from the cans. 


Made a dress and attached the butterflies. Amazing!!! 


Isn't this just lovely?!! 
The dress was entered into a juried art show. I hope she won.


On her post, Tracy included a video so you can see exactly how she attached the butterflies to the dress. So pop over, you'll find so much inspiration on her blog.


Next up is the loveliest lady. I met her when I went to the sewing expo in Puyallup to audition for the Sew It All program. As it turns out, we have many things in common, and one in particular is she too flies an airplane!!! In fact, she is super lucky as she actually lives at an airpark. Her name is Kathy and she blogs at Running With Rocket, named lovingly after her dog Rocket.

Kathy is so incredibly creative. Below is a clothesline bowl that she recently made as a gift at Easter. I just love how she used the thread to give definition.


There are so many tutorials on her blog, but I decided to showcase this one for baked potato bags. She says that these bags put out the fluffiest potatoes one could ever want.


Kathy makes the most incredible cards. On the left is a picture of a friend's horse, and on the right, the card she made for her. Look closely and you'll see an airplane in the background :)


On her blog, you'll find not only fabulous ideas, Kathy shares recipes AND her very green thumb! On the left is a picture of her blooming jade plant. I'm so jealous!!!


Kathy also has an Etsy store, so if you see something on the blog, love it, but would rather not spend the timing making it, you can most likely find it there. 

Have a wonderful day! I hope you are able to squeeze in a little time just for you :)
Rhonda



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Tuesday, April 25, 2017

Fascinator and Fashion Show Fun

The Haute Couture Club of Chicago will host its annual fashion show on Sunday, May 7, 2017. It's always a fun event!

What makes the event especially nice is how so many members pitch in to help. I was given a sneak peak of our table decorations, so I thought I would share, tempt, whatever the case may be :)


Now, this is just a small sampling. Each is a full size hat/fascinator. There will be 22 in all. And...even better, everyone who attends the show will have the opportunity to win one, or more!

The hats will be raffled off. Tickets are a steal!!!
$2.00 per ticket
$8.00 for 10 tickets
$15.00 for 20 tickets

So for just a mere $2.00, you could actually take home a custom made piece.  

We are especially excited as we will also showcase the designs of 3 specially chosen fashion design students from The Illinois Institute of Art who will be the recipients of our scholarship awards. 

If you would like to attend the show, ticket information can be found HERE. It's always fun to be around others who sew :)  



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Monday, April 24, 2017

Monday Morning Inspiration/Write On!

I have always loved to write. Now yes, I love to tell a story, but when I say write, I mean actually write on something. When I was just about 5 years old, the writing bug really got a hold of me! And, for some reason, the floor seemed like the perfect place to write little paragraphs about how I was feeling, or words I had read in a book(I read early). Of course, I knew better than to write on the floor, so I would write in corners where I thought no one would ever see what I had done. But, my mother being the meticulous housekeeper that she was, soon found my work. Busted!!! And of course, there was no one I could blame it on as my brother was 4 years younger and just a toddler. To make matters even worse, all of my little works of art were done in ink, so I have no idea how she managed to remove what I had done. Kids ;)

Over the weekend, I just happened upon some pieces on Pinterest that caught my eye. Who would think that writing on fabric would actually be interesting? 

This was the first piece that I saw. Such fun!


Another piece from the same designer. I couldn't find whose work this is, but you can see it HERE on Pinterest.


The next 2 pieces are from Stella McCarthy. While it's a stitched detail, it has the same feel, so I included it.  




A little wild and crazy, but fun.


Love this. Looks like they took an ink pen and drew the shape on while it was on the model. 


Thought this was such a cute way to detail a pocket.


A fun way to decorate a buttonhole.


Isn't it interesting how this plays a trick on the eye?


 A t-shirt makes a great canvas for anything you might like to say!



So now you have permission to get those fabric pens out and start writing on your clothes!!! Wow, if only I had known ;) Well, truth be told, if I had written on my clothes, I may not be here today!!! 

Go write on something, and have a great day :)
Rhonda



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Sunday, April 23, 2017

Sunday Night Reflections





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Saturday, April 22, 2017

Take A Peek/A Vintage Garment That Is Beautifully Made

A number of years ago, I found a wonderful vintage evening suit that transcends time. 


The dress is simple in design, but made of the most beautiful fabric. It includes a jacket, perfect for chilly evenings. And even better, it has hidden pockets.


For those of us who sew, the interior of the dress and jacket are just as interesting as the outside, if not more, so I thought you might like to take a look inside.



If you have any questions, be sure to ask, Or if I can take a close up picture of something, just let me know.



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Friday, April 21, 2017

Sewbussted's Material Witness/Fishman's Fabrics, Chicago's Premier Fabric Store

Today is National Drink Tea Day! How perfect, grab a cup of tea, and enjoy a brand new episode of Sewbussted Material Witness! If you prefer coffee, that's okay too ;)


I found this interview to be especially interesting and inspiring. So many of us watch as fabric store after fabric store closes, and of course we fear the worse...where will we be able to find fabric? Many have turned to the internet, but it's just not the same as being able to go into a store and become intoxicated by everything we see. 

Fishman's has been a resource for couture fabrics for over 100 years. Here you will find 80 shades of Bemberg lining, always at $10.00 per yard. 


They also carry 38 shades of silk charmuese, a must lining in any couture garment.


A little over one half of the store is devoted to clothing fabrics,


With an entire wall of woolens for bespoke men's wear. 


In the video, you'll learn that they even offer more, a free swatch service, unique fabrics from Italian manufacturers, and re-orderable fabrics. 



As you enter the store, there is a wall devoted to the history of Fishman's, featuring the impact that the store has had on Chicago as well as the life of so many who have entered through the front door.



And finally, a tribute to Gregg's father, Jerry Fishman, a wonderful man who made everyone who entered the store feel as though they were the most important person in the world. In the video you'll learn why he is pictured in an airplane. 


I hope you've enjoyed this episode of Sewbussted Material Witness :)
Rhonda 



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Wednesday, April 19, 2017

The Wednesday Showcase

The smallest gesture can have an enormous impact.

My husband and I belong to a ballroom dance club. It's a little on the Downton Abbey side as the men must wear a tuxedo, the women must wear a formal gown. There are dance cards. A woman is never to left alone at a table. I tend to roll my eyes at a few of the rules, but all in all, it's fun, and I enjoy meeting and talking with the other members. 

There are a few couples that I especially enjoy. I had the opportunity to dance with one gentleman that I think is just delightful. As we danced, he mentioned the Christmas card that I sent to he and his wife. He went on to say, "you just don't know how much that meant to us." 

I love sending Christmas cards, but this year was a little difficult. For years now, my husband and I have done picture cards, and my little dog Little Bit typically had a place of honor. 

Poor little dog...one year I found a pair of fabric antlers that I thought I would strap to her head. Then I got the bright idea to take her out to the airport and sit her on the cowling of the airplane as if she were Rudolph leading the sleigh. She had a very different idea about doing this and I ended up having to just hold her in my arms. Over the years, there have been pictures of us hiking, and pictures with special get-ups(a term used in the south for outfits that are rather questionable). It's a miracle that the little dog loved me as much as she did! ;)

I almost talked myself into not sending out cards this past year. But, for me, a card is like a small gift, a gesture to show that I have thought of the person to whom it is sent. And so, as difficult as it was, our simple little card was put together, just the three of us, my husband, Gracie, and me. Little did I know that months later I too would be given a gift.

It's been a few weeks since we've had a Wednesday Showcase post, so we are well overdue!

First up today is Anne of quite simply, Anne's Blog. Unlike many of us, she did not have the opportunity to sew when she was a teenager, but now that she is retired, she has taken on the challenge as an outlet for her hidden creativity. The blog gives her a place to chart her progress. As you'll see below, she has done an incredible job!

Not only did she make her daughter's gown, she also made the bridesmaid's dresses. So lovely.   


This beyond adorable shirt was made for her grandson. This is a shirt that I would like to have in my wardrobe!!!


Anne is so very generous with her time. She even sews for her mom. This was an especially thoughtful gift as her mother is now legally blind, and the fabric was from her stash.


Anne says that she has a very difficult time finding RTW clothes that will fit, so all the more that she wants to sew for herself. She goes into great detail about the changes she makes in her patterns. Here she is pictured in a Cashmerette Concord Tee. The room she is standing in is to die for!!! I would LOVE a garden room like this.



Be sure to pop over and say hi to Anne. I know you'll enjoy getting to know her.

Next up is Claire of Domestic Coquinette. She sews on her dining room table in New York City and creates pieces that anyone would love to have in their wardrobe.

She is especially proud of her "Bombshell" bridesmaid's dress. I think there are a lot of bridesmaids who would be especially jealous of such a beautiful dress! You can read all about her journey to create this dress HERE.  



She copied an Anna Sui dress. Claire's is on the left, and the original on the right. I like Claire's :)



Claire made this beautiful lace dress for her rehearsal dinner. Not a full length picture, but you can see that it is spot on perfect!



Not at all afraid of a challenge, she rubbed off a favorite dress and created this super cute piece for her sister's engagement party.


Claire also enjoys sharing her adventures and travels with those who stop by her blog. She is truly a delight in every way. 

Before I go, I thought I would share something that really made me laugh...


Have a wonderful day!
Rhonda



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Monday, April 17, 2017

Monday Morning Inspiration/Bring On Spring!

Spring has sprung here in Chicago, but Mother Nature can be an evil woman this time of year! In years past, I have been lured by her temptation that spring is truly here, gone out, worked in my garden, planted flowers, only to have a dip in the temperatures, and then loose everything. So...I wait until Mother's Day weekend to do any planting. But until then, I fill the house with flowers, open the doors and windows, and enjoy the warm air. 

Back in February, I shared with you the delightful work of Meredith Wing. She is a fashion illustrator who designs under the name Moomooi. Her designs aren't exactly fashion, but vegetables, fruit, leaves, all artfully arranged on fashion figures. Meredith is such an inspiration as she is the perfect example of do what you truly love, add in a little luck, and you will succeed.

   
I was so captivated by her work, so I searched around and found the Feel Unique website, and ordered her tote bag and makeup bag. Even prettier in person than they are on the site.


The other pieces that are offered;
Makeup brush
I-phone case
Travel Pouch


I think these would be a lovely gift for a young woman graduating from high school. If your purchase totals $15.00 or more, shipping is free in the U.S. I love free shipping :)

Last week, I did a post about my knitting projects that I have challenged myself to complete during 2017. I also vowed not to purchase another project until I thinned the project stash. Well, I must confess that I broke down and purchased another project. I'm disappointed in myself (only a little!), but I just fell in love with these crocheted boots from Lion Brand Yarn. As I told you last week, I can crochet, but not well, so it's going to be all the more of a challenge for me to get these made. But, since I really want them, maybe I'll be all the more motivated. We'll see :/ 


Bell shaped sleeves have become the rage this year.

This morning when I opened my email, I saw a fun challenge from McCall's.  


All you have to do is make up McCall's 7542, submit your make, and you just may win! Get all of the details on the McCall's blog HERE. The grand prize is pretty sweet! And even better, the pattern is on sale for $2.49.  
I look at it this way, even if you don't win the big prize, you'll walk away with a cute new piece for your spring wardrobe. You can gets lots of inspiration HERE on Pinterest for your own makes.

My next interview for Sewbussted's Material Witness was postponed last week, but will happen tomorrow. I am so excited!!! So it should be up this Friday. 

If you haven't done so already, go buy a few flowers to enjoy at home or in your office. A beautiful flower always puts a smile on my face :)

Have a wonderful week!
Rhonda



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Sunday, April 16, 2017

Sunday Night Reflections





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Friday, April 14, 2017

Empowering Others

One of my favorite television programs is, "Pit Bulls and Parolees." If you haven't seen the show, it's about a woman, Tia, who is committed to saving pit bull dogs, and giving those who have been incarcerated a chance at making it once they leave prison. Not all of the dogs can be saved, and not all of those who come to work at the facility end up a success story. But, many do. 

A friend emailed me about an event that will take place here in Chicago on April 29, 2017, called Knit Around The Clock. This is a fund raiser for a group called Committed Knitters. You can check them out HERE on Facebook. They are a   group of women who once a week, teach women how to knit and crochet at the Cook County jail. The outreach doesn't end at the jail. When the women are released, the group continues to follow up with them to ensure success once they are back out in the world.  

They do need donations. A downtown store called Loopy Yarns will accept donations. You can also find them HERE on Facebook. If you attend the event on April 29th, donations will be accepted then as well.

On Tuesday, I shared my goal of completing 12 knitting projects this year. Many need to be completed, so they are not start to finish projects. My initial goal was to complete at least 1 project each month. The only problem is that it's now April, the 4th month of the year, and none are completely finished. Close, but not finished :/

I felt that I needed a jump start, so I went through my selected projects and decided that I could get one completed, a scarf. 



I had taken a class with Nora Gaughan while I was in Maine a few summers ago. She had given us a set of 6 different samples to do. I had thought that I would do the samples, but make them into a scarf. I didn't like it, and there it sat. So when I looked at it on Tuesday, I realized that my only option was to rip the entire thing apart, but choose a pattern that I like and just do the 1 pattern for the entire length of the scarf. I'm happy!!! I sat down over the last 3 evenings and knitted away. So now I can mark at least 1 project off the list. 

What I am the most excited about is finding out about the Committed Knitters program. So inspiring. What a wonderful resource for duplicate needles, and yarn that I know I am not going to use. My initial goal was just to thin the stash, but I also wrote that one of my goals was to find a home for the things I could not use, or did not want. See, this whole thing of writing it down really does make it happen. And even better, the resource came to me, I didn't even have to look for it!

If you know of resources like Committed Knitters that needs needles and yarn, please leave a message. If there are enough, I can compile them into resource list.  



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Wednesday, April 12, 2017

Adventure Awaits!/Rocky Mountain Sewing Adventure

For me, there is nothing better than combining my love for the outdoors, and...well, just about anything creative! 

Although I live in the city, I'm most at home in the mountains. I love the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the ease of the everyday pace. I am especially excited about offering what I think will be a wonderful opportunity to learn, relax, and rejuvenate at our very first....


Date:
June 10-16, 2017

Cost:
$1385.00

*The trip includes transportation from Denver International Airport as well as return transportation. You MUST make arrangements to arrive no later than 1:00 p.m.  

*6 nights accommodations at the Indian Peaks Resort. The condos have 2 private bedrooms, with 2 private baths, and each condo comes with a beautifully maintained hot tub. The kitchens are well stocked, so you may cook as you wish.



*1 relaxing massage.

*A 1-day class at the Tandy Leather Outlet in Denver, with transportation. We will be learning the art of leather tooling. Time to shop will also be included.

*A guided, daily morning hike, with a longer hike on Wednesday afternoon for anyone interested.

*3 days of instruction with Helen Haughey. The workshop will give you the opportunity to make a couture sheath dress.

*1 day leather workshop with Rhonda Buss. We will be making a bag, using zippers, and learning how to properly work with leather.

*A welcoming dinner on Saturday evening. Rhonda will have homemade soups to choose from, a salad, fresh bread, and dessert.

The sheath workshop will take place at the Historic Fraser Church. The room is lovely, with a large stone fireplace on one wall. So if it's chilly, we can light a fire! The sheath workshop will take place on Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.


The leather workshop will take place at the Fraser Public Library on Thursday. 

Transportation to both venues will be provided. 

An optional workshop will be taught on Tuesday night at The Fabric Nook in Granby, Colorado. You will have the opportunity to create the Row By Row Design. A design that is unique to The Fabric Nook. Transportation to and from Granby will be provided. The cost of the workshop is $50.00 and includes the kit. 


Not included in the cost of the adventure:
*Airfare to and from Denver, Colorado
*Daily meals 

If all of this sounds exciting, and you would like to participate, please download the registration form HERE.

Once your registration has been received, you will receive a supply list.

Remember, the adventure is only open to 10 participants.

I hope to see you in Colorado!
 



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