Sprout's Patchwork Scarflette and Scarf {tutorial}

{Tutorial AND a GIVEAWAY - yea!}

The snow has begun to fly around here and Christmas is on its way.  Around our house, we do a whole lotta handmade for the holidays. My Two Peas and Sprout love, love, love going outside, so scarves seem to make perfect sense for one of my gift giving projects.

It's a great way to use up your scraps and make something truly unique for a friend or a teacher or your little ones.  The scarflette fits my Sprout just perfect and falls to her waist (she's 2) but it also fits me just as perfect (at 44" in length).  Bonus.

The scarf is BIG.  It was like 20° here today so big warm scarves are a must.

With ruffles, some yo-yo's and some fabulous buttons (thank you Hillcreek Designs) - I think the SCARF and SCARFLETTE are something you'll enjoy making and giving.

I am lucky enough to count the lovely Elizabeth Scott as a friend and she shared some of her new fabric collection with me, Red Rose Farm which is what I used to make the scarflette for Sprout.  Aren't those fabrics so sweet?!  {thank you so much Elizabeth for sharing!}

And since Elizabeth was so generous, I'd like to share some of her Red Rose Farm with you. Leave a comment on this post and I will pick one winner to receive a precut kit of the Scarflette design as shown here that will include 16 pieces of Red Rose Farm and a stash of buttons from Hillcreek Designs and some pink fleece.  Giveaway will end by December 9th at midnight.  International friends welcome to enter. Giveaway is now closed.

Let's Sew!

Making the SCARF

Here's whatcha need...

• Loads of scraps, I used a combination of cottons and flannel, Cut 10" wide and totaling 80" (includes seam allowance) in length (I like them a bit long for the way I choose to wrap it on but you may want to adjust this to your preference.  The finished length is roughly 66").  On my scarf, I cut the two end pieces from the same fabric and the same size to match them up.  I cut those pieces to be 10" x 3 1/2".  And I added a ruffle above each end piece, cut 20" x 3 1/2".
• Lining fabric.  The lazy girl method, just use your finished top as your pattern and cut your lining to size.  I used a fleece.  You could also use a flannel or if you live somewhere where it isn't snowing, you could use cotton.

1)  Lay out all of your scraps to plan the order in which you are going to piece them.  Then, using 1/4" seams, laying right sides together, piece your 10" wide scraps to create your scarf top.  On each end of my scarf, I created a ruffle and then added the final piece on each end which was identical print and size.

2) To create the ruffle, I used the piece cut 20" x 3 1/2".  Run a gathering stitch down the center of that strip.  Pin the ruffle to your fabric strip just allowing the ruffle to tuck and fold however it falls.  Stitch.  Then add on your last piece which on mine, was sized 10" x 3 1/2" and I used identical prints on the two ends.

3) Press ALL of your seams to one side and then topstitch. (see below).  Remove your gathering stitch from your ruffles.

4) Adding the lining.  I suggest, you use your finished scarf top as your pattern and cut your lining fabric to size.  With right sides facing, pin your lining fabric (fleece, flannel or cotton - your preference) to your scarf top.  Using 1/2" seams, stitch all the way around your scarf, beginning in the center on one of your long sides and leaving a 6" opening for turning.  Trim away excess and clip corners.

5)  Turn your scarf right side out.  Press all along your edges to give it a crisp finish.  Topstitch all along the edge of your scarf.  Done!

the SCARFLETTE

Materials

• Loads of scraps, my finished scarflette totaled 44" - adjust as needed to fit for a custom fit.  For the 44" length, you'll need 8 fabric strips cut 6 1/2" wide x 3 1/2".  Cut 8 fabric strips 18" x 3 1/2".
• Use your finished scarflette top as a pattern to cut your lining fabric.
• Various buttons for decorative details.
• Fabric scraps for making yo-yo's.

1)  Lay out all of your fabrics to plan how you would like to piece them together.  Then, gather each one of your long strips to create the ruffles.

2) To create the ruffle, run a gathering stitch down the center of each of your long strips.  Pin the ruffle to your fabric strip just allowing the ruffle to tuck and fold however it falls.  Stitch.  Continue stitching together in the order of ruffle, flat piece, ruffle, flat piece and so on until your top is complete.  (Refer to the ruffle photos above in the SCARF directions).  Press all of your seams to one side and topstitch.  Remove your gathering stitch from your ruffles.

3)  Adding the lining.  I suggest, you use your finished scarflette top as your pattern and cut your lining fabric to size.  With right sides facing, pin your lining fabric (fleece, flannel or cotton - your preference) to your scarf top.  Using 1/2" seams, stitch all the way around your scarf, beginning in the center on one of your long sides and leaving a 6" opening for turning.  Trim away excess and clip corners.

4)  Turn your scarf right side out.  Press all along your edges to give it a crisp finish.  Topstitch all along the edge of your scarflette.  On mine, I did my edge stitch using a zig zag stitch.

5)  Adding the button(s).  On our scarflette, we placed a button hole centered and up 11" from the one end.  (you should try on your scarflette and determine where you would like a button.  This 11" up fit both me AND my 2 year old so we could share!).  Then I sewed a button on the opposite end to match the buttonhole.  I layered several of the Hillcreek Design buttons for more color.  I also made a couple of yo-yo's and placed a button to the center.  You could also opt to do two buttonholes - placed  an 1 1/2"  from each edge for a bit more security if you'd like.

Check out my tutorials along the right hand side for a few more gift ideas.  One that has been really popular and is easy and quick to make is the patchwork wristlets and lanyards.  And a simple table runner is also a fun quick way to add some color to your holiday decor or even to make as a gift.  My kids actually drew some pictures that we scanned and printed on that printable fabric you can buy at JoAnn's and are planning on using that in a quilted table top.  I also made a scarf like this last winter but it was narrower.  I like both sizes but that post with the quickie text instructions for a narrower adult scarf can be found here

Happy Holiday Sewing!

xoxo,

Trish

Whooo Won?

Thanks everyone for playing along with our giveaway offered by yours truly and Anna Luna from Crafty Girls Workshop.

The winner who will get fabric from Anna and the Hoot -N - Nanny tote pattern from Two Peas in a Pod Homegrown Designs is...

ELIZABETH - "Love that bag!  Not sure I'd give it away either...might have to keep that one!".  Thanks Elizabeth!

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving holiday!  I'm working on at least one more holiday gift tutorial to add to the list over there to the right to give you one more idea for your handmade Christmas!

xoxo,

Trish

IT'S FRIIIIDDDAAYYYYYY! SALE STARTS NOW!

Pretend it's already Friday. Have you survived the crowds? Got your deals? And now resting peacefully in your slippers and jammies by the fire with a cup of cocoa? Me TOO! Well, except I didn't go shopping or anything - I'm just laying around in my jammies today. The entire weekend. Yep.

Here's my holiday offer to you for Black Friday...

Sale option #1 - Buy any two patterns, get the 3rd one free.

Sale option #2 - Take 20% off any finished goods item in stock (excluding patterns) in my etsy store.

No codes needed. Discount offered via paypal refund. Purchase 3 patterns, receive refund on third. Limit of 1 free pattern per person please. Sale starts at midnight on November 24th and runs through midnight November 26th.

Don't forget to go here and here and here to enter current giveaways from Two Peas and Lola Pink Fabrics and the Crafty Girls Workshop!

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

trish

{crafty girls workshop} and a giveaway

I had the pleasure of meeting Anna Luna of Crafty Girls Workshop at Quilt Market in Houston last month.  She's super energetic and has a rockin' cute online store loaded with fabrics, patterns, and kits.

Her blog is a fun place for inspiration.  She's running a series of posts currently linking to all kinds of fun holiday projects around the web.  Gotta love it when somebody does all that surfing for you and provides some fabulous links, right?

Anna fell in love with my Hoot - n - Nanny tote...

...and asked if I'd be interested in partnering with her to do a giveaway this week.  "Great idea!", I said, because...heck, I love giving stuff away especially during the holidays AND it IS a great idea.  And this pattern is super cute and quick to put together so it would be a great gift for a friend.

And Anna is throwing in a charm pack to go with each pattern...hello?  How fabulous is that! (not this EXACT charm pack pictured but one very cool you'll love) AND in addition to that - she'll add in 1/2 yard of your choosing to add to the charm pack!  Sweet!

So here's how you can enter to win one of these packages...leave a comment.  That's it.  Cause Anna and I are cool like that and know that you are busy stuffing turkeys and cleaning house, etc.  Any old, preferably something nice and cheery, comment will do.  Leave one here.  Leave one with Anna.  (two chances to win, yea!).  And we will pick TWO winners.  Giveaway ends Saturday, November 27th at midnight.

And be sure to stop back here later in the week where there may or may not be a super aweseome once in a lifetime...ok, or at least a very good, Black Friday Two Peas sale.  But you gotta come back later to get the 411.

xoxo,

Trish

VERY EASY and low tech Covered Notebooks...

For several years in a row, the Two Peas have crafted trinkets and sold them locally giving the proceeds to our local Children's Hospital.  One of the more popular items we made was covered notebooks.  Super easy to do make, quick and very pretty.  One year they made a huge stack and the notebooks themselves were delivered to 'tween and teen patients at the hospital. Here's what you'll need:

Composition Notebooks like this one (We found these at our local discount store for 50¢ each)

Ribbons Scrap book embellishments Glue - we used Elmers school glue Old paint brush Fabric Scraps

1)  First, cut the fabric for the cover.  Cut your fabric 2" larger than the cover on the top, bottom and side but even with the edge of the black spine.  Clip your corners as needed to get them to lay down nice and smooth.

Once you have cut to proper size, apply your glue on the cover and use your paint brush to spread the glue evenly.  DON'T use too much or your fabric will just be all wet from the glue.  Just use enough to give it a good even coat.  Lay your fabric onto your cover and smooth it.  I used a ruler edge to smooth it and get out any bubbles.  Once you have the front smooth, then open your cover up carefully and apply some glue along the inside cover at the top, bottom and outer edge and wrap your cover fabric around and secure with the glue.

2) Next, cut a piece of fabric for the inside cover.  This piece will be folded under 1/2" on all edges and will fit evenly to the center, covering your raw edges of the fabric from the cover you wrapped around to the inside.  You only need to press under your top, bottom and outer edge.  You can leave the edge along the spine raw.  It will be covered later.

I used my iron to press my edges of the inside fabric under.  You could also stitch the folded edges under with a pretty decorative stitch if you wanted to add some more detail.  Next, apply your glue and using your paint brush, smooth it until it has an even coat.  Secure your inside cover fabric piece in place and smooth.

3)  Add your ribbon.  I used several pieces of ribbon layered together.  First, lay your ribbon on the inside and wrap to the front as pictured.  Determine your length and cut.  I glued the ribbon layers together (you could also sew them) and glued them to the inside spine of my notebook first, covering the raw edge along the spine.

Next, I wrapped my ribbon around to the front, again covering my raw edges along the spine.  I glued the ribbon in place on both ends leaving the center unglued so I could tie it.

4)  Last, I added some of my scrapbook embellishments to the cover.

These are fun for the kids to do because with a little help, they can do most of this project themselves.  It would be a great idea for a child to make as a gift for a grandparent or teacher for the holidays.  If you try this project, add it to my Flickr group and share your works of art!

xoxo,

Trish

The spiritual side...

Hard for me to recap Quilt Market without touching on what it all really meant to me, spiritually.  For those of you rolling your eyes and muttering, "oh, here she goes with the Jesus thing"...yes, the Jesus thing. If I'm to be honest about what matters most to me then sharing that is just as important as the glitz and photo ops.  I had a pastor once say that it doesn't really matter if the whole Jesus thing is real or not - living our lives to be good to one another, to find peace and contentment in prayer - what does it hurt?  If it all turns out to be a hoax then our lives still would have been better for the faith we have had.  Well, at least that's how I view it.

So, for me, launching our business is much more meaningful than you can imagine.  It's been in the making for about 6 years now.  It's been a lot of work.  A lot of planning.  A lot of sacrifice.

As we were taking off from Columbus to Houston, I had this intense sense of being surrounded by angels.  I also had a really strong feeling of being supported by my sister and my grandmother.  Both have passed on many years ago and both were wonderful seamstresses.  I never spent enough time with my sister because I was only 3 when she died but I know that my Grammy (the one whose photo is in my Patsy Ann Apron Top pattern) taught her to sew.  For some reason, my mind was flooded with thoughts of them and how excited they both would be if they could see what I was about to embark on.

For all the exciting things that happened and are still evolving from my trip to Houston, I am extremely humbled and grateful.  I have prayed for so long for answers, for a light to my path, to help our family find a way to get to where we needed to be.

One of those prayers has always been for my peas.  Twins are high risk and my pregnancy included a 2+ week hospital stay and then more bedrest and medications to keep them until 36 weeks.  I had to stay on my back 24/7.  Eat laying down.  Bathe lying down.  And when they were born, they were perfect.  They are perfect.  But as time has progressed, we have discovered small things that have been stumbling blocks in their development.  Multiple things.  And this long complicated puzzle we have slowly watched year to year as they grow, started to come together within days after I got home from Houston.

I won't go into detail as it is quite private but it was a moment, when I was sitting watching clinicians perform assessments and I was sobbing as I watched.  It's heartbreaking to see your children struggle and feel helpless.

And as the days progress, and our business grows, I see that the Lord HAS answered those prayers.  For that exact moment brought new realities for us and new challenges and I could see now, that THIS was the time that HE had chosen for our family.  This was, this IS the right time.  For many reasons.

Sometimes, when we pray for what we want, it's hard to be patient and wait.  And not know if you'll ever get what you asked for.  I didn't exactly get what I asked for but I got what I needed, what our family needed.  And I am humbled.  And grateful.  And for the 6 years we have also waited on a diagnosis for our peas, I am thankful to know what, how, and where to go.  Mothers just want to do it all for our kids, make everything better but there are some things, I just can't do.  Those are the things that make me cry.  Then.  And now as I write this.  Because I just want them to not be frustrated, or struggle, or to give up.

I think that since my husband and I have made certain that this business is a full on family affair, it's given our peas a sense of pride, and ownership, and accomplishment.  They are part of the success, what little ones we can claim at the moment, and we wholeheartedly celebrate everything that those beautiful girls are to us.

This post may not have made much sense to you but the spiritual side of this experience has been very heavy on my heart.  I do feel God's hand in all that we do and I do feel extremely blessed, for whatever may come, I know that God always has a way to provide for us.  Now more than ever, it's an answer to a prayer.

xoxo,

Trish

Quilt Market {queue theme song from Rocky}

Dun-na-na...dun-na-na...dun..dun..dun...dun-na-na....(arms in air doing the little Rocky dance up top of the stairs!)  Whoo-wee!  I did it! I don't know how (actually I do - it's called Carla, The Gardener, Barb and Kristin) but we did it and best of all, we lived to tell about it.  I've got a lot to share and I'm doing it all in one post so get ready...it's a long one!

My debut at the International Quilt Market in Houston, TX.  So the story goes like this...once upon a time, I got a crazy idea that I could actually design fabrics and write a book and create sewing patterns...and I was gonna start this little company called, Two Peas in a Pod Homegrown Designs.  And how hard could it really be?  Right?

Well, I've found out what it takes and I love it and I'm not going back.  Our family is full on committed to seeing this dream all the way through and I gotta tell ya, right now...I am sitting on Cloud 9 (which coincidentally is a really awesome organic fabric line I saw at QM).

I had a great experience.  The reception to my patterns and my designs and my brand were very well received.  I think 2011 is going to be an exciting adventure for us and I can't wait to slowly share with you all the new things that our family will be involved in.

Let me start at the beginning...

I loved the outfits that Cyndi, one of my sample sewers, created for me.  They fit beautifully!  What?  You thought I had time to make all those samples, write the patterns, plan the booth AND sew my own outfits.  The secret is out...I have help!!  The jacket I'm wearing here is made from a print from Amy Butler's LOVE home dec collection and her Liverpool shirt pattern.  I added sparkly buttons to it and wore it as a jacket.

Anna is the former editor of Sew Hip magazine.  Anna took a chance and invited me to write a series for the magazine early this year.  I ended up and was published in Sew Hip 4 times this year - thanks to Anna.  It was so exciting to meet her in person - she flew in all the way from the UK!

It was my first time meeting Marisa of Creative Thursday.  You must go and check out her website because it is chock full of inspiration and beautiful images.  I love her  style!

Lizzy House is the talented designer behind Castle Peeps.  Lizzy is a generous and giving person who shares her time and experience and talents.  It was such a pleasure to meet her in person after sharing several conversations with her via email.  Lizzy has a wonderful pattern line as well that you can find here.

Bari J. is the creative force behind beautiful fabrics, patterns and a new book coming out soon called Inspired to Sew.  Her booth was so bright and warm...her wall hanging quilt is the cutest darn thing ever!!  Bari has been so kind in offering me loads of advice and encouragement and I'm so grateful to count her as a friend.

Jan DiCintio has created a brand of fabrics by the name of Daisy Janie.  Hands down, Jan is a pioneer.  She has designed and self produced this line of fabric, insuring minimal waste in every facet of production to shipping.  Green doesn't get much better than this. And Jan, my hats off - I don't know how you do it but you are amazing!

Patty, bless her soul, is so sweet I could kiss her!  I honestly would not have been able to make some decisions and get where I am had it not been for Patty's wonderful mentoring.  She is too kind and Patty, thank you so much for helping me.  I promise, I will do the same for someone else someday.  Patty has a mouth watering new fabric line from Michael Miller called Sanctuary and an amazing array of sewing patterns to match.  You'll love them!  She and her hubby John dressed up for Halloween and they were hilarious!!

I heart Anna Maria Horner.  Her new line is called Innocent Crush and I have a serious girl crush on her.  I adore her use of color and I think she is hugely talented.  She has velveteens out this time and I'm anxious to get some sample yardage and sew something up for my Sprout.  I've not previously met her before so this was a highlight for me.

I was exhausted beyond measure.  Overwhelmed maybe a bit.  But so excited for what the future will bring.  Thank you so much for all of your support.  My wonderful testers (and yes, I know...I have patterns coming to you very soon!), Sarah B for all of your help in editing, Barb for being my friend and coming along to help for the big weekend - that means SO much to me, love ya, Kristin - my super awesome girlfriend excel wiz who sews with me when I'm freaking out until 3 am - love ya, "Aunt Carla" - you are a super star and such a blessing to our family, and my husband and kids - we are in this together and I love this adventure we are on and love you to the moon and back.  I'm very blessed with supportive friends and family who lift me up in prayer and cheer us on - thanks you guys.  To God be the glory...

xoxo,

Trish

My Top 10 List o' the day...

Quilt Market has been an amazing experience for me so far.  I don't think I can hardly put it all into words just yet because my feet are so tired and when my feet are tired, my brain fails to work very well.  Here's a few things I've noted so far:

1.  Quilters are amazing artists.  Some of the quilts on display here look like photographs.  Done in fabric and some painting.  Truly amazing.
2. A smile goes a long way.  So many people just come into the booth and light up and smile.  That totally makes my heart happy.  I love happy smiling people.
3. Starbucks is not the same everywhere.  My Peppermint White Mocha from one Starbucks was great.  From another, not so great.  If you know me well, you know that I was deeply disappointed to go without my coffee today.  My Starbucks is my one luxury item I afford myself as a reward on hard working days.  I went without today.  (Cue the tiny violins.)
4. Barb (my neighbor) and I are pretty handy with power tools.  Just sayin'. 
5. Country girls get it done.  Afraid of nothing.  Can do attitude.  Resourceful.  Hard working.  Refer to #4. 
6. Family is the best foundation.  My family has been the most supportive outstanding amazing team.  From helping with kids, the business and EVERY LITTLE THING we ask or don't ask for, they have been there so willingly.  I am so blessed.
7. Friends are priceless.  From Barb who came with us and cried when we arrived to our empty booth - I love her for being so excited for me.  She made me cry.  To Patty Young, who has been a mentor to me and I'm ever so grateful for all of her help and advice.  And all of the support I've gotten from my twins club Mom friends, and friends from church, and friends from all over...Friends are priceless.
8. Room service so you can eat chocolate cake in bed at almost midnight is sometimes necessary.  Getting it for free - even sweeter!
9. To the lady who brought me a tiara today for a photo op with her...you're crazy and I totally love people like you.  I swear to be normal is just too boring. 
10. Finally, the world seems so big and then also so small sometimes.  I know it's called the INTERNATIONAL Quilt Market but I guess I just assumed it would still be mostly folks from this side of the pond.  I've met people from the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, Switzerland, UK, Spain, Brazil...I guess that would qualify the title of the show, "International", huh?  Very cool. 

When my feet quit hurting and my brain is fully functional, I'll be back with more about my Quilt Market experience.  If only the blog had sound...if there was any doubt we are really "working" here...I could verify with the sounds of my bunk mate snoring.  While I type.  With every light in the room on.  And the TV blaring.  That kind of working hard all day sleep is so nice.  I have that "kid on Christmas Eve can't fall asleep because I'm hoping Santa just brought me that awesome new sewing machine I really wanted and a case of new thread" syndrome.   Suppose I should try closing more than one eye and get some rest.  More soon...

xoxo,

Trish

Farmhouse Funk

Our booth is on the UPS truck, our bags are almost fully packed and we leave for Quilt Market in just a few days.  :>)  Yea!! So, probably the last post I'll have up until we get back.

{a closer look at another one of my new patterns} a trio of pillows including fun applique, scrappy patchwork, fun stitching, bows and lots of buttons.  Farmhouse Funk.

xoxo,

Trish

Carol Jane Dresses...

Thanks so much for all the positive feedback so far on the patterns...I've been working on these for a very long time and I really appreciate all the kind words! I wanted to give you just a little bit more of what some of the patterns include.

Today, a closer look at the Carol Jane dresses.  This pattern actually includes instructions for 6 versions of this dress!  SIX!  Check it out!

A tunic version with sash

With a center contrasting panel and triple wrap tie

With an adorable center contrasting band and hem, waist ruffle

and a polka dot embellishment

Applique that includes an owl, caterpillar and watermelon

Patchwork (my favorite!)

Knit version with ruffle detail at the neckline.

So many choices - your girls will adore this simple classic dress with so many new twists!  I'll share more details on the other patterns soon!

xoxo,

Trish

The BIG REVEAL!

I'm talking sewing patterns here...just in case you thought things were about to get "X" rated around here! The Sprouts Fall 2010 Collection has arrived and will be available for wholesale beginning at Quilt Market October 30th.  Retail sales will begin early to mid November and be available in my etsy shop.  There is a little something for everyone I think.  New sewers, advanced sewers and everyone in between.  Those who like to sew for kids, themselves or friends...I hope you'll find something you can't wait to make!  I certainly enjoyed putting them all together for you.

Patterns include illustrations plus "real life" process photos to help guide you through each project.

May I introduce to you...SPROUTS, Fall 2010 Collection from Trish Preston, Two Peas in a Pod Homegrown Designs.

Can't wait to see what you all make with them!  I'll have my Flickr page updated with each pattern so you can share your projects!

xoxo,

Trish

Fallen off the face of the earth...or whatever

Did you think I had fallen off the face of the earth?  No?  Ok, no really...it's about to get pretty quiet around here.  See this face? This is the face of a girl who has had very little sleep.  Whose butt has gone numb long ago.  Fingers in permanent bent position on the keyboard of her computer.  Coffee cups, tea cups and an empty bag of pretzel crisps surround her.  Children pawing at the office door wondering when will she be done.  A husband lurking about woefully neglected and underpaid for he is keeping all the plates of our family spinning at the moment.  Pages and pages of text, edits, revisions, double check, color checks...and on and on and on.  But it's short lived...and soon, it will be go time, time to get on that jet plane for Houston and head off to Quilt Market.

I think that working a trade show for 3 days with 2 days to set up and tear down will seem like a giant vacation compared to the last few weeks.

So it might get a bit quiet around here while we rush about in a flurry with finishing touches in preparation of our Sprouts Sewing Pattern debut but I promise...I'll be back soon enough with a big fat reveal of all 14 new patterns.  ALL OF THEM...Even the Hazel Hipster got a facelift and new revisions!  I'm exhausted beyond measure but God is good - I know this journey He has led our entire family on is one with purpose and I won't let a little sleep deprivation stop me from being the best I can be and honor Him.

Wish me luck with all the preparations won't you?  I could use a hug...

xoxo,

Trish

Country Living Fair {swoon}

My Mom has had a subscription to the magazine Country Living since I was about as big as Sprout.  I grew up laying next to her at nap time gazing at the photos and falling asleep while she read.  Now, when I get the magazine delivered to my house - I run up to the bathroom, run a tub of hot water and read cover to cover (come on!  I'm not the only one who escapes to the bath to be alone...I do have to lock the door otherwise children will come in 20 times but seriously...there is no reading a complete sentence unless I hide out.) I do love the magazine.  My parents love antiques and I got drug every weekend to some stinking antique store, antique show, blah, blah, blah...look at this piece of furniture and the dovetail, tiger maple...yadda, yadda, yadda.  For my 16th birthday, I didn't get a car.  I got a victorian dresser.  It's now Sprouts dresser.  And I adore it.  Antiques.  And everything old, dusty, beat up and well loved.  {thank you Mom and Dad for inspiring a love of old}

This weekend was the Country Living Fair here in Columbus.  I've read about it in the magazine and it looked incredible so I was so excited when I called Aunt Carla and asked her to go with me and she said yes!  It was fabulous!

See...for my Mother, if I got a feature in Country Living magazine, it would be like winning an Academy Award.  She'd totally freak out!  I could be asked to be on Oprah and my Mom would be like..."oh, that's nice".  But get a feature in Country Living...she would be ear to ear smiling crazy happy!  (Me too!!!).  So, I was super excited to meet Sarah and pitch a few article ideas at her.  Who knows...maybe I'll get that feature someday!  I was kinda hoping for Spring...around Mother's Day actually.  A girl can dream, right?!

Anyway, the next Country Living Fair is in Atlanta, Georgia.  If you are near - it's a must go!!

xoxo,

trish

Serious randomness...

Honestly, I feel like I have ADD really bad lately.  Far too many things going on at once.  Getting ready for Quilt Market, dealing with the demands at my "day job" as we enter into our busy season (heck, when AREN'T we busy?), loads of kids stuff and "issues" with school. Hard to keep focus on any one thing for very long.  Ya know, like hard to blog about just one thing because I write a sentence and soon enough my mind is already thinking about what else needs to be done next...

So here's to all kinds of randomness...I got back all of our fab photos from our shoot from a few weeks ago...today I'm touching up the Madison pattern text and couldn't wait to share with you the cute and adorable Cait who is gracing the cover!  Isn't she a doll?!  And a future teacher too...just as sweet on the inside as she is on the outside.  Love her!

And then Uncle Mel, love him too.  He's been working on some "manly things" for our Quilt Market booth.

And I had to finish up one of the Madison bags because I wanted some new photos for the pattern...just wasn't feeling the ones I had.  So...now I have a design sample of the Madison.  Probably gonna list it in my etsy shop soon unless anyone wants first dibs at it!

xoxo,

Trish

Happy Harvest

In case you didn't already know, I love this time of year.  I love especially Halloween!  I love hosting parties and having campfires in the backyard and roasting marshmallows, and eating candy apples and drinking cider.  All of it.  I.  Love.  It.

How about you?  Love it?  Well, I was messing around with trying to create some kind of rustic handmade printable that maybe you could use...for a party invite, to accompany a little harvest gift to a friend, or maybe, if you have an etsy shop, to use as your thank you notes to your customers.  Anyway, I'm new at it.  So not sure that it will quite work out perfectly BUT...you can give it a go, right?

Click on the Happy Harvest Printable 2010 link to open the pdf document.

Happy Harvest Printable 2010

There you will find two different versions on one sheet.  You should be able to print them off, cut them down, and fold them to use as cards.  Your inside will be totally blank so if you're savvy, create a word doc to fit and then you can print on the inside if you'd like.

What might you use these for?  Let me know if they actually work for you!  I hope they do!  Have fun!

xoxo,

Trish

Devil won't get me down...

You know how some people seem to have all the worst "luck"?  I'm not one of those people BUT I do seem to have weird random things happen to me.  Frequently.  Right?  (my friends can attest to this) This past week, I awoke Monday morning to a zit just inside my nostril.  Fab. U. Lous.  For sure.  By Tuesday night, my entire face was starting to swell.  By Wednesday night, my husband was referring to me as "something from Planet of the Apes".  It was not a pretty site.

By Thursday, my doctor who I paged Tuesday night and saw first thing Wednesday morning, had referred me to a specialist and they wanted to admit me to the hospital and surgically open and put in a drain tube in order to help this "little infection" along.  At this point, I was on this little cocktail.

Two different antibiotics plus a third that was a topical cream and a boat load of Motrin for pain.  My teeth were killing me!  By Friday, I went in for "surgery" and for a stay that they said would be about 3 days for IV antibiotics except about 2 hours before we went in...I started to get better.  At least I thought so.  I took a picture before I got in the shower that day and then showed my doctor that photo up next to my face and said, "SEE!  SEE!  Looks a little better doesn't it?!".  He didn't look very convinced but he finally agreed that I did seem to be a teeny tiny bit better...and so he said we could hold off for the moment and see how things go.  RE - FREAKING -LIEF!

Last summer, I had MRSA.  A result of an insect bites I had around my ankles...and then a visit to my Dad who was sick and in the hospital.  Scratch, scratch and about 2 days later, I little pimple on my leg appeared.  A month later, I was walking around again and starting to feel like myself.  I have had all kinds of just random weird stuff with myself, my husband, my kids...medically, or otherwise and I swear...sometimes I just wonder...is the devil trying to get me down?

Here's the thing, no matter what your "higher power" is you believe in, there's always something that seems to counteract it.  For me, I'm a Christian.  I'm Lutheran in fact.  Born, raised, wavered, and committed.  For me, Jesus IS the way.  And so, I wonder sometimes, if the louder my voice gets in terms of increasing blog readers or success with trunk shows or releasing my pattern line...if "somebody" wants to quiet my voice?  Sounds like a conspiracy theory, right?  Well, it is!  I know that sounds crazy but...it could be anyone.  It could be YOU.  If YOU are ever in a position in which others are looking to you for any reason, I think you are a target.

There are many things within a day, a week, a month that can get you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed and uncertain.  I think that when we are feeling vulnerable, uncertain, overwhelmed, frustrated, tired...that's when "he"...in my case, I believe, "the devil", sets in to tear you down.  I guess he thinks that's when he can best reach you.  Get you to make bad choices, give up, doubt yourself.  And many times, I fall for it.  I doubt myself.  I think I can't do it.  But, I woke up today, with this swollen face, and thought, Screw you Devil.  I am so behind on work and everything in my life.  But Not today!  Not me!  I put on my game face, my imaginary football pads and growled!  Bring!  It!  On!  I will not be defeated.  I will not give up.  I will not be discouraged.  I just won't!

I have faith in a higher power.  I believe that I am following a path that God created me to follow.  I believe that when given an opportunity, I will share that my GOD is a mighty GOD and with Him by my side, I have no fear, no doubts, no worries.

Take that swollen planet of the apes face!  Hrumpf!

xoxo,

Trish

"Sew"ing Seeds with the Two Peas {a patchwork lanyard tutorial}

(*NOTE November 24th 2010 - Be sure you check out the home page for the latest giveaways from Two Peas!)

Yeah, I don't really know about this little post header...BUT hey, guess what?  TUTORIAL!  Awhile back I started what I called "Make it Monday".  Then found out somebody was already using that.  So I changed it to "Sew it Up Sunday" except I rarely post on Sundays.  They seemed to fall on Mondays by the time I got them up.  And I was gonna post one a month but yeah, like THAT happened!  Not so much.  So maybe a little "Sew"ing Seeds with the Two Peas...get it?  Sowing seeds...SEWing seeds...a little garden reference there.  Ok, whatever.  I kinda liked it - we'll see where it goes and maybe I'll actual design a real header for it if it sticks.

Let's make something!  You'll need scraps of fabric and some hardware.  Like a key ring and a lobster claw (see below). Recently the wonderful ladies of the Creative Connection Event asked if I could make up a few lanyards for their social media correspondents.  They needed to match their logo which was in a blue and pink color so I came up with these patchwork versions.  Let me share with you how you can make one too...for yourself, your favorite nurse, teacher...anybody who wears a lanyard.

For the ladies at the Creative Connection Event, I added rolled roses on a clip to their lanyards.  That way, they can remove the clip and wear it in their hair or clip it elsewhere.  Dual duty!  I love these little flapper girl buttons!Well, what do you think?  Are you gonna make a few?  Who are you gonna make them for?  Have fun and make lots!  (think fun little Christmas gifts...you could even attach a gift card to the end!)

xoxo,

Trish

The Gardener goes BIG!

You know how boys never seem to outgrow their toys?  Their toys just get bigger?

Each year, the gardener (aka my husband), goes out with tiller and tills up the garden at the end of the season, getting it ready for next year.  This year, he and his Uncle decided they needed to expand the size of the garden.  See...the gardeners Uncle planted a HUGE garden this year and sold at the local farmers market.  My gardener was envious, I think.  The gardener and his Uncle have been chatting away for hours about tractors, dirt, bugs, seeds, squash, potatoes and more.  I think in retirement, they secretly want to be farmers.  Which, secretly, I love.

I could hear over the roar of the tractor something about sweet potatoes.  After they worked on the top garden near the house, they went down the sled hill and into the pasture and tilled up a big patch there.  Turnips, oats and all kinds of things were planted there.  Here's the one catch to the winter plantings though...

...I thought it was strange the gardeners "hunting buddies" all kept dropping by to see the "food plots".  Huh?  Turns out...all that work and food being planted down in the pasture is for the deer.  Because the gardener is all about organic and the true "hunting and gathering" thing in providing for his family.

Now mind you, these guys love nature.  They love sitting still in the woods and listening to the trees sway and the squirrels jump from limb to limb.  They talk and plan all year for deer season and honestly, it is truly more about the "hunt" than it is about the "kill".  Because they do a WHOLE lot of hunting and very little killing.  We usually get one deer a year.  But, the gardener and his buddies, each evening, meet up on our driveway, gear up, walk down the hill to their tree stands together, then a few hours later, come back up, stand in the driveway and chat more before calling it a night.  I think it's like girls getting together to go shopping and sit down for coffee to talk...this is their version.

So it turns out these "food plots" and winter cover crops weren't planted for us humans but rather for the wildlife.  Boys and their toys.  It makes me smile to see my husband and his buddies having such a good time "playing".  I swear, everytime I mention to them, "are you boys having fun on your playdate"...they just laugh.  Because, in fact, there is something very wonderful about having friends to play with.  It makes my gardener a better person to get to hang out with his buddies and dig in the dirt.

He did say that in the Spring, that big garden down below would be converted to goodies for us...mainly squashes and watermelons and canteloupes and more.  Sounds perfect to me!  Go play!

xoxo,

Trish

My tummy is so thankful

Life is busy. Each of us runs our own race.  Work.  Family.  Obligations.  Trying to figure out just what it is we were made for.  At many points of your life it may not seem so obvious.  But then unexpectedly, someone, something, gets you to stop just long enough to take a breath and remember what is important.

Frequently for me, it's Carla.  Carla is our business partner.  Spiritual leader I call her.  When my anxiety gets the best of me and I feel like I'm not good enough, I can't get it all done, or I feel paralyzed from pressure (right?  we all get that sometimes?  tell me I'm not alone here)  Carla comes to the rescue - she is quick to pull out scripture that hits home.  I'll read her emails and they'll say, "We need to talk about the profit and loss plan, period.  Next sentence, God loves you, he will never abandon you...and beautiful scripture and discussion about a particular verse.  Her emails make me cry.  Sometimes because of the deadlines for the business...LOL...mostly because they keep me grounded in keeping my eye on the true prize that we have in Christ.

I have come to realize that many of my close friends do that for me...they are really good at lifting me spiritually when I need it.  I feel like such a slug because I have been so "needy" these last months...ok year?  Maybe?  Challenging ourselves, dealing with punches that roll our way, pulling ourselves up...I wonder if I give back as much as I receive.  I want to be better at it...and I feel like sometimes I'm so wrapped up in ME that I'm missing out.  I'm going to focus my prayers there for awhile...

Carla, aka the gardeners Aunt, is the bestest cook eva!  She showed up at our house for one of our meetings with this...In this cooler, in the boxes, bags that accompanied it contained precut, precooked, prepared meals for lunch, dinner and snacks for an entire week.  I know, spoiled aren't we?!  Check out the menu she brought!

Can you see it?  Seriously spoiled are we!

You should know something about me.  I love to eat.  Good drinks.  Delicious foods.  It's by far my favorite form of entertainment.  I love to go out to eat at good restaurants.  I love going to parties.  I love potlucks.  I especially love when a gourmet cook brings me a weeks worth of dinner...made with love.

It was a great week...

Giveaway?  Oh yes, we do have a winner to announce.  Mr. Random Number Generator...#30, thepurplecloth!

Thanks Chantelle for sharing your talents!

{ps forgot to mention!  I have some cute fall and halloween shirts up in the shop...limited supply.  A few more sizes may be available but mention "fat and happy" in the comment section of your purchase and receive your shipping costs refunded! }

xoxo,

Trish

Pouring. Down. Rain. Miracle.

Would you guess that as this shot was taken, the rain...started...to...POUR!  BUCKETS!  I can't believe how awesome this came out for as hard as it was raining!  We were a bit under the trees so we got lucky!  LOVE IT!

This is my Pocket Full of Posies banner and I love how cute our little model looks with her fairy wings enjoying our tea party we set up.

Before the photo shoot for our patterns and pending Quilt Market...we spent time sprucing up the playhouse my Dad and husband built.  Dills Nursery loaned us some fabulous plants and it looked stunning!  

The gardener (aka my husband) really out did himself!  He repainted everything, powerwashed all over the place, hauled plants, watched kids...super Dad for sure!

I've been writing writing writing working on text for the patterns and really, not much else.  I'm kinda feeling out of sorts because my sewing machine broke as I finished up the last sample for the photo shoot.  And it's been down for more than a week now.  Can't remember the last time I stayed away from my machine that long...

So I've started daydreaming about Halloween already...I know, I know.  It's my favorite holiday...I think I might start decorating in a couple of weeks so I can really enjoy my entire vintage collection I've amassed over the years.  I've started browsing on etsy...found this fun little item!

I'm gonna have some serious fun watching what pops on etsy over the next few weeks.  I seriously LOVE vintage Halloween decor!  Fun!

Do you have a favorite holiday you like to decorate for?

Don't forget - the Chantelle Nicole Giveaway ends August 31st!  You still have time to get in and explore all the wonderful jewelry items she creates!

xoxo,

Trish