Friday, May 18, 2007

One quick thing...

We're walking for Autism research on June 3rd. Please donate or participate , if you can!

Click here to learn more...

Friday, May 11, 2007

Eight things about me...

I saw this on Lady Tess today, which I discovered randomly, liked the idea, and decided to participate...

Here are the rules:

1. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.

3. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.

4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog.

Eight Things About Me

1 - I designed and made my own wedding gown in 1996, using less than $100 in materials. Here I am, with my Dad...


2 - I collect old sewing books from the late 1800's because I love them so much... They have a real energy and meticulousness about them that is just incredible!

3 - I feel that I have a guardian angel with me at all times, and have felt that way since I was a little girl.

4 - Although I don't believe in astrology, I almost never get along with Pisces... What does that mean???

5 - I receieved an unsolicited bear hug from Mike Tyson when I was about 17 years old. He thought I was "pretty", he said.

6 - I believe love is a vital ingredient in all creative endeavors, and that is what gives any work of art its "voice".

7 - I believe resilience is the single most important ingredient for success. It forces you to redefine failure in your life.

8 - That I label all of the cords to my computer and sewing machinery, so I know which outlets and ports they are each plugged into.


Choosing eight people is tough, since they all need to have blogs, right? This is the part I can't do - my friends don't blog, really... but if you are reading this, want to participate AND have a blog, let me know...

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Weighted vest for autistm or sensory integration issues

I hope this is a help to other parents of children with sensory integration issues out there... Weighted vests are pretty pricey, and limiting, so I've found a good alternative.

I have added weighted pockets to a ready-made vest.

The pockets are made of a strong cotton twill, and since they are meant to total a percentage of the child's body weight, small beanbags work well.

So that the pockets don't have to remain attached to the same garment, they are removeable. They have two large buttonholes on top, so the buttons can be sewn to whichever garment is suitable for the child's size and the season.

I will sell the pockets and appropriate buttons, or directions to make them, if desired.


Here is a picture of the beanbags...



Here is my son's vest with pockets sewn in (but they can be buttoned on instead.)

Friday, April 20, 2007

Bought from Britex

So, I loved this fabric at Britex in San Francisco, and I wanted it to become...





I am thinking about buttons and buttonholes now. It hasn't been pressed yet...


This two-toned, welted pocket creation with rich, blue silk details. It is to wear casually, with jeans and such...



And here it is... inside out.


This was inspired by the Japanese "jimbaori", which have broad lapels to display rich lining fabric. I have named this my "No one said it would be easy" jacket, and it feels great to wear it.

Friday, November 10, 2006

San Francisco PACC Conference







This is a wreath in the window of Britex (a San Francisco fabric store) - about 18 yards of lilac organza. A good idea for an oversized holiday wreath. Beautiful!







I had a blast at the conference - learned so much. The Professional Association of Custom Clothiers is truly a worthwhile organization for anyone working as a dressmaker or related business...

This is a lovely November day in Union Square...












Stretch fabric techniques class...

Costuming class with accomplished designer of "Beach Blanket Babylon"...










Golden Gate, Alcatraz

Jellyfish at the aquarium...




My last evening in San Fran.. before leaving the pier!

Friday, October 20, 2006

Recent wedding gown



Things have been insanely busy, so here's a brief summary of what I've made lately...


This bride was nice enough to share her photos with me, and gave me permission to post them. I love the way she looks in this dress!

Baltimore, MD - Association of Sewing and Design Professionals Conference

  Heading off to meet with colleagues, my fellow Board Members, and friends in Baltimore, MD for a few days of conference, meetings, and eve...