Cell Phone Pouch

This year for Christmas, we bought my mother-in-law a cell phone, adding her line to our plan. I told her I'd make her a cell phone pouch, so she'd be able to keep her phone with her while gardening, etc. I did an online search for free patterns, and found one I liked. This design is by Susan Brubaker Knapp, and the instructions can be found HERE.
I'm not a quilter, though someday I'd like to try one. This project involved some random piecing that I found a little awkward for my brain to process. I'm going to have to look for some tutorials on crazy piecing now.

Anyway, I think the pouch turned out pretty well despite my *issues*. I still need to find a carabiner that complements the fabric.

While working on this project, I discovered that my newer Bernina (Artista 165) doesn't have a free motion embroidery foot. My older Bernina (model 1230) does, but my mom is using that machine right now. I think I'll order some feet today. I've never used a walking foot, but I've heard it's a must-have item.

Another Project

I know I'm not supposed to start a new project before completing some of my other (unfinished) projects, but this is one I need to do.

A coworker saw my Sonia doll, and wanted one like her. And because she gave me a deposit, I really do need to get her done.

So this is a variation of my Averill design. Instead of using multiple print woven fabrics for the arms and legs, I made the whole doll from craft velour.

The cloth-covered clay face has been covered in a cotton knit fabric. This is an alternate clay face from the original Averill face.

The fabric still needs to be tucked behind and trimmed. Then the face will be painted in 2-3 coats of gesso, 2-3 coats of flesh-colored acrylic paint, and attached to the body. Then the features will be painted, hair and clothing added, etc.

I still need to give her fingernails and toenails. That can be somewhat time consuming, but it's much easier to do before attaching the hands and feet to the limbs.

Christmas has finally arrived for the Hogans!

Way back in August, my hubby and I decided to purchase a brand new tandem bicycle - our Christmas present to each other. So we placed an order for a Cannondale tandem. Five months later, our bike has finally been built - Number 1 off the assembly line for 2009!

Today we drove to Portland's River City Cycles to pick up our baby. And she's a beauty! We even managed to get back home before dark, so we could take her for a spin. Limited by daylight, we got a 13.5 mile ride in. Our max speed was 33 on the flat, and it felt like flying.

We already own an entry level tandem, which will be placed on Craig's List ASAP. This one is SO much nicer.

It's a Start

A couple dolls done. All your comments on the last post have helped! To the left is Tavia, finally dressed. I purchased some shoes from CR's Crafts that I hope will fit, but they're not here yet.

The guitar-playin' beatnik is Francine. I forgot all about her, so she wasn't pictured in the WIP photo. She's a new-design-in-progress that I'll probably "let go" because I'm just not happy with it. She really needs some product or something for her hair. And maybe some accessories.

This is another link to an article about the new law that (unless amended) will impact many crafters:

http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/263549

The Great Procrastinator

Just how in the world did this happen, anyway? Why can't I finish these projects?

Here are MOST of my unfinished dolls, in various stages of completion. I did not include assorted arms, legs, and unstuffed pieces (or projects that have not yet been started).

Now you see why I resolved to complete my unfinished projects. I can almost envision what it would feel like to have everything done...almost.

I don't work today, though we may play some music with friends tonight, and yet I just don't know where to start.

It may be logical to work on "Tavia," the girl with the curly brown hair. She just needs clothing. Or perhaps the guy with the beard. He, too, needs the rest of his clothing and shoes (and a few wizard-like accessories).

Perhaps my anxiety about where to start is what causes me to begin new projects instead (I can feel the tempation to start a new project, and am trying to resist). I'd like to participate in some of the on-line challenges, but to do so would make me feel guilty.

Nope...I think I'll work on Tavia. Off to pick the fabrics for her clothing...

Happy New Year!

Another New Year, and another list of New Year's Resolutions...well, primarily the same resolutions as last year with a sprinkling of new ones.

Addendum~

I Resolve...

To lose weight and exercise regularly

To finish all my unfinished projects (i.e., dolls)

To say 'No' to requests for commissions

To learn something new