Goose Girl Smocked Dress

I recently "organized" my smocking UFOs (unfinished objects) into zip lock bags in a basket on my sewing desk (also my computer desk/writing desk/kitchen desk). I have at least 12 garments in various stages of completion, from smocked bits to completed garments that need to be smocked. This dress was someone else's UFO- bits of fabric and the smocked dress front. I  was limited in what I could do by how much fabric I had.

I didn't have collars or sleeve bindings, so I did a Swiss eyelet edge on the sleeves with elastic and a ruffle at the neckline. I like it- it's something different. The pattern is Chery Williams' Baby Square Yokes, size 24 mos. It still needs to be hemmed.

It is fun to see how changing the colors makes it look:

Border Eyelet Bishop with Pink Underlay

My Smocking  Guild ran a program to teach people  how to make a smocked bishop dress. Since I have made many, I tried to do something new. I used border eyelet (a poly/cotton blend) with one seam in the back AND I pleated it with an underlayer of pink batiste. I stitched the 2 together before pleating and treated them as one. It worked perfectly!

This is Children's Corner "Bishops" pattern, size 18 months. I really like the puffed sleeves on this pattern. I think they are just right. I can't remember what smocking plate I used on this- I have to try to figure that out. I do know I am supposed to add a little 1/8" ribbon woven through the smocking to match the pink ribbon along them hem.

I have more of this fabric left. I would like to make a matching bonnet and/or panties.

Superbowl Sewing & Snacking

Andy had a Superbowl Party at school to celebrate the fact that our "Home Team" made it AGAIN. I found "Patriots" fleece at Joann's and thought it would be perfect for a pattern I'd wanted to try.

The pattern is "Fernando's" by Create Kids Couture. I love the shawl collar, which looks nice and is so cozy. In fact, I'd like one in my size. Andy was so excited about this- nevermind all the outfits I've made over the years that were hours and hours of work. He just loved this top!! It looks cute and is so warm, too! The pattern was quick and easy- I definitely recommend it.

We are "fair weather" sports fans- we only get excited for Super Bowls and World Series, but we're always up for a good nosh. I found this cool Food Stadium at a discount store and it made a fun place for party food!