I love to sew. I really do. I picked it up within the last couple of years and really enjoy making lovely things with my own two hands. But sewing requires a few things that I happen to be short on these days . . . patience, precision, oh, and TIME.
I put my sewing machine away for a bit after Gus was born. I simply had no time or energy to create even the simplest projects. And some of the more complex projects I undertook (aka – the blouse that still only has one sleeve) found themselves in a rumpled heap in the corner of the closet. I’d love to have plenty of time to sit down and sew leisurely. But I don’t. I’ve also learned that trying to cram a project that requires some concentration into a single naptime usually yields a crummy finished piece and disappointment on my end.
So – I decided that if I can only sew an hour at a time once a month or less, I’d make the best of it and choose quick and simple projects. Here are two from the last couple months.
Anna Maria Horner’s Infinity Scarf
A project so quick and easy you will doubt you are actually making something worth making. It’s essentially a two sided loop, people. But it turns out super cool. Swearsies. The original tutorial is here, but I used the modifications suggested in this one. I used a cotton voile, one of the suggested fabrics, and while I really like the print, it kind of sticks together giving it a more structured and less flowy form. I’d suggest a velveteen or something with a bit of satiny feel to it. Nonetheless, I like it. And I like that it doesn’t have any pesky tassels for Gussy to pull and chew on! So -without further ado, the finished product.
I always feel like a goon taking pictures of myself so I decided to just look like a goon, too. Besides, you’re supposed to be lookin’ at the scarf!
Simple Simon Winter Bonnet
The next project I found was this adorable little winter bonnet. This, too, is easy peasy and will take you all of 20 minutes (if you’re an average seamstress – it took me about 45!). The minute I saw this pattern I knew I wanted to use the remnants of a gorgeous orange velvet I had somewhere in the closet. One totally destroyed closet interior later, and I found the prized fabric and whipped up this little confection for the Bear. I also used an old granny square and some lace to spruce up the bonnet. I think it is darling on her and I love how it tops off her favorite zebra coat!
Like mother, like daughter.
I’m hoping to have some time to sew in the new year ahead. We shall see. In the meantime, I need to whip up at least one last minute project for a baby boy who is STILL without a stocking a mere 4 days from Christmas. YIKES!
