Embroidering Pillowcases For My Daughter

I feel like I've been out of the crafting game for so long (a much needed break!), I thought it would be fun to rekindle my blog and document my progress on a new embroidery project.  I've always really enjoyed embroidery because it reminds me so much of painting or drawing, but with thread and white fabric canvas instead of brush or pen and paper.  Plus, anything with a vintage vibe that can be passed on as a handmade heirloom is always exciting to make.

I'm embroidering two pillowcases that I found at Joann Fabrics with horses and flowers on them for my horse-crazy tween daughter.

A few years back I found a case of every color of embroidery thread you could imagine at the Goodwill for just a few dollars.  To finally be able to use that thread and so many colors makes me happy!

The progress so far is from just over a day of embroidering.  It feels good to use my hands again and to do something relaxing that doesn't involve a tv, computer/phone screen or a camera.

The shop is back! DIY Wedding patterns for unique brides

Hello again!  It's been a while.  How are things?  

Well, the shop is back!  You may have noticed that things have changed a bit.  We now exclusively sell PDF patterns for our signature veils, fascinators and accessories. Our patterns are clear and easy to follow with lots of photos and detailed instructions. 

We created these patterns knowing that brides are picky, and don't always have a million dollar budget, or a ton of time. The designs are easy enough for beginning crafters and can be customized to suit your style and color palette. 

I personally know the value of a beautiful handcrafted item, and know many of my customers do too. I also know that many brides don't have the budget to purchase one or perhaps want to create their own heirloom quality wedding accessory.  So I offer affordable, downloadable patterns now, knowing there are many crafty hands in the world ready to take on the task.

I still do custom commissioned work from time to time, so if you have an idea or dream you'd like to see realized, shoot me a message. It's fun to get to know my customers and create something special for their wedding day or a custom costume piece or fascinator just for FUN. I love providing a personal experience for folks from all around the world.

Housewares Sale at Metropolitan Market, and a few of my favorites!

Metropolitan Market's annual Housewares sale (July 18‑21) is coming up very soon.  This means my wallet will be (happily) drained yet again, as I fill up my cart with new tools, serving pieces and probably a new cookbook or two.

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Metropolitan Market.  I am a foodie and I love to entertain, so "Met Market" (or "M's" as my kids like to call it) is my go-to spot for fine ingredients and delicious culinary treats like gourmet cheeses, artisanal breads, the freshest produce and my favorite racy French wines.  Their housewares department is a great resource to find every kitchen tool you need to cook dinner party food in a weeknight time frame, every darling dish that the designer hostess desires, and a completely crave-able collection of cookbooks, linens, and kitchen accessories.  

I chose a few of my favorite summer entertaining items* from my local Proctor store to share with you.  

Le Crueset makes these sturdy juicers, perfect for crafting ice cold lemonade or patio cocktails that call for a squeeze of lime.  We've recently been on a kick crafting basil mojitos, so this juicer would certainly come in handy...

Last year some friends made salted caramel ice cream in this Cuisinart ice cream maker.  It was HEAVENLY.  We threw our manners out the window and sat around the kitchen island together with our spoons and devoured it right from the can.  This ice cream maker crafts perfectly smooth texture and amazing taste.  

If you want to actually serve your guests a few scoops, this ice cream scoop would be just what you need.  Perfectly weighted and just the right scoop size!

Spork Chops.  Need I say more?

Loved this sugar and creamer set.  I want this for when my Brooklyn friends come to town next to enjoy a proper cup of Northwest coffee.

This adorable etched measuring spoon set would make such a great hostess gift!  If it's someone else's turn to cook, maybe spice up their kitchen a bit with some fun and sweet beechwood measuring spoons.

I absolutely love these retro dishes and glasses!  Would look fabulous set at my vintage yellow formica table...

Tomorrow is the start of the Housewares Sale, so be sure to get to your local Metropolitan Market because that means all of these wonderful items are up to 70% off through July 21st!

*Just so you know, Metropolitan Market does not allow photography in their stores (ahem, or so I discovered) but the management at the Proctor location were gracious enough to let me take a few photos for this blog post after we discussed what was going on.  :)  Thanks Proctor Met Market!