Sketchy Sketch

It's a curious thing. I am not very good at drawing, and yet the moment an idea pops into my head for something I want to make, I run straight for paper and a pencil or pen, whichever is closer. I doodle out what I like to call "sketchy sketches," (not to be confused with Etch-A-Sketches, which I think I don't need to tell you always confuddled me, and yes, that is a made-up word), and often it's one of those very first drawings that makes it to the pattern drafting stage (or, as in this case, an amalgamate of several early sketches). Sometimes, I don't even bother attempting to draw the thing I want to make and I skip right to the pattern drafting because I already know how to construct it. Maybe it's because I got a degree in psychology instead of art. Although, that doesn't explain why I know how to make patterns. Hmm. Also curious.

A little doll popped into my head recently, and I knew I had to make her right away. The picture I envisioned: retro hairdo--check, mary janes--check, peter pan collar--check, little bow, freckles, and a vintage button--check, check, and check! I used a sweet new print from American Jane's Punctuation line for the dress, and yellow hand-drawn grid print by Cosmo Cricket for her tights.

*swoon*

*flutter*

I think I must still be a little girl at heart, I love this doll so.

I'll continue playing with the pattern, and will hopefully be able to share her with you soon....

Bye for now!
Kim

Patchwork Pumpkins

I have been so busy in my little basement atelier cooking up new patterns that I nearly forgot to mention my latest PDF sewing pattern here on the blog! So without further ado, I introduce Patchwork Pumpkins:

The pattern includes all three sizes of pumpkins pictured, with tutorial-style instructions and color photos for each step. The smallest sized pumpkin is perfect for a pincushion. The fabrics I've used here are all by Joel Dewberry (Aviary) except for the big polka dots, which are by Amy Butler. I found those adorable acorns here.

My workspace is a flurry of sketches, bits and pieces of prototypes, felt, thread and buttons, plus stacks and stacks of fabric. Much like the one this little guy is perched upon. I've got some really fun things in the works, I can't wait to show you!

The sidebar is getting a bit crowded with patterns, so for now I'll send you to my shop for the pattern, until I work out something else to give you more shopping options.

Edited to add: I did go ahead and put the pumpkin pattern in my sidebar because some international customers are having difficulty checking out through Etsy. Thanks for letting me know!

Happy Sewing!
Kim