Too Many Choices

I thought that when I eliminated my credit debt and was free to be an artist, that I would be carefree. I imagined that I would spend time working on my fabric & sewing art as well as making crafty goodness for friends & family.

I didn't do it... again!

When will I learn???

I've spent these last weeks busting my butt on the blog.

Making tutorials, taking photos, linky parties, etc, etc.

I'm in my early 30's and I still feel like I can't get it together. I don't know what I want to do. Do I want to be an artist? Do I want to make a name for myself in the crafting or blogging world? Do I just want to be a mom? Do I want to design for a company? Do I want to try to write a book?

In some ways before, when I felt like I had an albatross around my neck, things were easier. Make props, make money.

I had a clear goal. Now I'm out there floating without an anchor.

I enjoy blogging. I love my readers SO very much. I know I'm a very small fish in a tremendous pond, but there are those of you that come back to read my posts everyday. There are no words to explain how much it really means to me that you share your time with me..

I need a guidance counselor, seriously!

I know I want to connect with you.

I know I enjoy both crafting and the search for art.

I know I want to strive to live an authentic life.

I've removed every photo prop item from my Etsy store. If you want something I used to carry, please feel free to contact me though. I'm not anti-prop. Good heavens it gave me my start on Etsy and I'm indebted to my clients. But I feel stagnant with them. I've seen them for months and months. I feel it weighing me down.

I will probably not stick to my blog schedule so ardently.

I enjoy doing pattern reviews.

I enjoy doing the knock offs.

I enjoy doing tutorials and freebies.

I have decided that I will do Iron Craft & CSI when time and interest allows.

I have decided to make WoW a monthly endeavor rather than weekly.

I will probably condense my WIPS with my personal project/family post.

I want to be an artist

I want to be an artist

I want to be an artist

I am the only thing standing in my way..

I think I'm done with my "Jerry Maguire" moment..

American Crafter

I can finally announce it..

I'm a contestant on American Crafter!

The bunny lamp was a hit in the audition..

Each week we will face on in different challenges.

This week is "Trash to Treasure"

And well, we know how I'm a crafty snob..

So rest assured, I'm working on a super cute project

that you would have never guessed was made from trash!

WIPS For This Week

WIPS?!

Who can type about WIPS when I'm guest posting on CSI today!

Come on over and learn I how I do my free motion art!!

Knock Off Decor

Have ya'll gone to the Knock Off Decor site? It is this *amazing* website that directs you to tons and tons of knock off tutorials. How fabulous is that?!

And well..um..yours truly is featured!

Come give me some love, please...

Sunday Sewing Pattern Reviews - Ruffled Bubble Romper

This week I'm reviewing the Tie Dye Diva's Ruffled Bubble Romper for infants. That link is going to take you to her romper section on Etsy. This pattern may not be there yet. It is brand spanking new and I was lucky enough to test drive it before the public. Her pattern for the older kiddos has been available, but the one for babies is new. If you want the latest news, discounts, etc. I highly recommend "liking" her Facebook business page.

OK on to yummy pictures and the review!

Description of pattern:

"Sew her this vintage inspired ruffled bubble romper and you'll feel like you're back in your lemonade stand days! Halter neck ties, three rows of ruffles on the back."

Level of Difficulty:

I didn't see a standard given in the description. I personally think this is just fabulous a beginner project. The most difficult thing you will do is gather a long fabric ruffle, and just requires patience not sewing experience.

For the advanced seamstress, this pattern will be a great source of inspiration. You could easily add some appliques or play with the number of fabrics used. If you have a serger and/or ruffler foot, this could be completed in an hour.

Fabric Recommendations:

I used high quality cottons in my piece. I'm pretty sure all the samples I've seen made used cottons as well.If you are adventurous, you could play with some other mid-light weight fabrics. It would be adorable with some denim accents or maybe even some linen.

Overall Design:

I love, love this vintage look. I absolutely love dressing my girls like.. little girls and not like they are about to turn 18. This pattern is sassy, but wholesome and fun! It is a great style for the summer heat. If you wanted more coverage, you could use this more as a coverall rather than a romper.

The pattern is pretty simple, but gives you a very tailored finish. A beginner will finish this pattern in a day and an advanced seamstress could complete this in a morning.

Instructions:

Very clear, no obvious errors, and lots of pictures with instruction.

Pattern Pieces:

This is done as a PDF. You will be able to print it out and put together without complication. There are not a lot of pieces to this.

Modifications & Tips:

You don't have to have a serger or ruffler foot, but if you own them I recommend using them to make this quick. Otherwise, be sure to use a thread color that matches your ruffle fabric.

I didn't make the style with a snap crotch. I almost always undress Julie completely when I change her diaper so I didn't see that as necessary.

As I mentioned before, there are lots of ways you could personalize this. You could easily put some embroidery or applique on the bodice. And I would love to see it with various colored ruffles on the bum.

Conclusion:

Well if it wasn't clear, I love this pattern. I honestly don't make a ton of baby clothes because I find the patterns are not well suited to an infant. This pattern is perfect. It is tailored, comfortable, and not overly fussy.

I'm planning on buying the pattern in the older girl size and make my girls a couple of coordinating sets for this summer. I think it's definitely a pattern to have in your stash.

**Tie Dye Diva did not compensate me in any way for this review. I was given the pattern to test sew before she was aware that I was going to be reviewing it as well. Definitely add her Facebook page for future discounts and pattern news.
Is there a pattern you've been thinking about buying, but not sure if it is worth your money & time? Let me know and I'll try it out for you!

Next week I'll be reviewing the Lovely Ribbon Dress by DMKeasywear...