Learning to Sew

I recently had a question come to me on Twitter about suggestions when buying her first sewing machine.  Hooray for craftiness!

Sewing machines and one of those subjects that if you sew, you have an opinion about. It's kind of like asking somebody what's a good first car for a new driver... it just kind of depends.

I grew up learning the and around Singer machines, so this is what I know best.  When I decided to take lessons to increase my technical skill in sewing, the classroom had Singer machines.  I know them well, they are comfortable to me.  

For the new sewer who wants to work on a project here and there or do some casual work with a machine that has some flexibility, I'll play favorites.

7463 Confidence

Singer 7467S Confidence

From the outset, I don't know that the two machines functionally are very different.  I've worked on both machines in workrooms, and they seem to be pretty standard in classrooms.  Simply put, they do the job in a not too terribly finicky way.  They are simple, they thread easily, drop-in bobbin, and button hole stitching that is easy enough to get after a few practice tries.

When you get to the point where you are making clothes regularly and want to develop a more finished look, I'd start to look at sergers (the machines that stitch to enclose the edges... take a look on the inside seam of your shirt to see what I mean).  Again for the less than commercial sewer (most of us), you won't need anything too intense or even a 5-thread machine.  I personally own a Janome machine, and really do love it.  

Weekend Project

How was your weekend? Mine was quite relaxing, which was even better because I spent all day yesterday making lovely things (or starting them).

I had an idea for art to hang in my living room. I'll share pictures as it unfolds, but do keep in mind, this is only the first step to a piece that is really exciting for me! I was inspired by the piece that hangs in Molly Sims' and Meghan's home, but I wanted to make a departure and do something a little more exciting. A splash of color, some more stenciling, and a small acrylic painting are in order for the coming week.

"I tried to remember as many details as I possibly could. Her long hair and her thin wrists and her green eyes. I wanted to remember everything, especially the sound of her voice."

Looks like this weekend project has turned into an all-week project. So it goes...

Sick Day

Tortellini Soup

It's been a long couple of weeks since my return from the holidays, and has it hit me hard! Today, I took some time to myself to catch up on rest and get my health in top shape.

work station

I also had the chance to catch up on a few projects. Just getting time to work in some good light while having the chance to take my time (and nap in between) was amazing.

A day well spent!

Full Mini Obsession

Hiya! If you know anything about my sewing/style/tendencies, you know that once I find a shape... there begins the obsessive tendencies.

Lately, I've been really into the idea of wearing full miniskirts with tights. It's my way of remaining feminine looking in the cold winter months. (Warning: may require additional layers outside while the weather is at its most absurd.)

So to fulfill my obsession in classic Rachel style, I decided to make a bunch in the same shape in a number of fabrics. I've got a heavy wool, a silk tweed, and a few more from leftover fabric from projects past.

When I have a few done, I'll style them so that you can all see my little creations. Until then, my little fingers shall create!

Feelin' Baubley, pt. 2

As you may know, I moved into my new apartment 2 months ago. Since then, it has been a slow but steady process to make it a home. When it came time to move in, everything seemed much different than I remembered (story of my apartment life!) It came time to get a little creative.

The first issue was that my new bedroom had no lighting. Literally none. There were light switches that turned on nothing. So after being inspired by baubles, checking out this tutorial, and doing a little bit of handy work... this is what I came up with.

2 Ikea paper lanterns, 5 sheets of paper from Pearl, some nylon twine and they hang delicately over my bed to provide the kind of soft light that reminds you fireflies and something celestial all at the same time.

For Your Weekend

I've decided: no costume parties for me this weekend. Nope, not going to do it. Well, ok. Maybe. However, this is the first weekend I've had in a while with no company, no trips, no nonsenses. As I'm buzzing around town and working away on projects, here is this week's Friday rundown.

Model: Emma Pei, Photographer: LiQi, Source: LiQi Studio via New Fashion World

1. I thrifted a great vintage cabinet last night. I bought paint and will be shopping Anthro's spot-on section of knobs for a brand new entertainment cabinet.

2. Will be baking some delightful fall foods.

3. Today the public opening of my first fast-fashion favorite. I loved it in Spain, I love it stateside. Now I can love it in Chicago.

4. If you catch me out this weekend with my headphones on, chances are, I'll be listening to this on repeat.

5. I'm getting really into anything involving fancy letterpress. Calendars, note cards, you name it. This weekend, I'll be on the lookout for personalized & beautiful sketchbook.

6. Finally, I have time to sew! A few new and comfy dresses that are fall-approved on the way. (No link... they will be a surprise (which reminds me I need to snap pics of the teal dress. Yikes!))

Feelin' Baubley

It's time for some weekly eye-candy & inspiration. I've been working on a nice little project for my bedroom and workspace that I'll post when it's finished (hopefully by early next week!) It has me thinking about baubles, spheres, circles, and more. Here's to an inspiring Thursday:

Interior: Sixx Designs, Hanging baubles: Habitat, Wedding image, Necklace: unknown, Lights: Atrium, Dress: Joseph, , Blue hairpins: Originals by Lynette (etsy)