Rae*Danae Designs

2 Good Deals This Week! More to Come!

2011-06-13T20:38:00.000-04:00

There is a HOT Sports Authority $20 off $20 coupon being delivered in the mail!
Be on the lookout for a Sport’s Authority Mailer. Make sure you don’t toss it in the trash because there are $20 off $20 and $15 off $15 coupon cards attached to the back of the “Everything Dad” Sports Authority mailer!
My hubs was able to go pick out a shirt absolutely free!

I also participate in the Old Navy Bucks Back rewards program...every $100 spent you earn a $10 coupon....I buy a lot of my supplies at ON for my orders and my girls like to shop there sometimes so I would be spending the money there anyways, so I might as well earn rewards. My daughter needed a one piece bathing suit for a church camp and we were able to get one free today! :)

1000 Fan Celebration and Giveaways!!!

2011-05-21T10:48:00.000-04:00

Good morning lovely ladies! For those of you on Facebook, be sure to stop by my page and enter all of the fabulous drawing for free stuff! Not on Facebook?? Keep reading-I have something for you and my mailing list too!!! In the Facebook celebration folder, I have a $20 and $10 Gift Certificate up for grabs, other shops have $20 and $10, $5 GC's, there's appliques, patterns, tutus, Thirty One, baby headbands, etc.......all you have to do is look under each picture and go "like" the shop's fan page and come back and comment...open until 5/31!!!! If you are already a fan, just write "AAF".............Go! Look over to the right of this blog for a link to my FB page!!!
I also have an auction running and will be adding more this weekend hopefully! Come grab a steal of a deal!!!
Now for you peeps not on FB and anyone else who reads this-Comment here under this post for a chance to win a $20 off $65 purchase from Rae*Danae Designs! Anyone can comment......while you are commenting, please let me know what sizes you most shop for! ***Extra entry****Go put this post on your blog or FB and get an extra entry!! GO! You have until 5/31 at 9 pm EST to enter!

Garanimals "Boutique" Re-Do

2011-05-10T13:40:00.000-04:00

So a customer/friend of mine and I think Garanimals are great, especially for her little twin boys, but let's face it, we can add some more "boutique-y cuteness" to it...I can't just walk into Wally World and buy something and keep it plain. So we came up with an idea. All I used for this was 2 pair of (purchased) Garanimals shorts, 2 new tees from Old Navy, 1 extra pair of shorts to use for material, thread, scissors and my sewing and embroidery machine. We came up with a plan to have simple circles and squares with their (lowercase) initials inside the shape and a coordinating piece of plaid for the background. We loved the combination of gray/green/turquoise for little boys! (I may have to go back because I saw a red/white/and blue pair that would be super cute to make someone for the 4th of July! This can get addicting!)......Hope you enjoy them, C!!!!!

Great Publix Trip!

2011-04-06T19:33:00.000-04:00

After checking here for the deals, I ran to Publix to buy my hubby's birthday dinner and use up some great Publix store coupons stacked with maufacturer's coupons.....for a savings of $105 today...woohoo...my best day yet! And for those of you who are still skeptical that it's only junk, look at all the vegies and meat items I got...a huge London Broil, 4 Mahi Mahi fillets, frozen vegies, rice, drinks, etc. Some coupons are so good and when stacked together(perfectly fine at Publix per their coupon policy) that it creates an "overage" and that goes towards the meats, milk, etc. Here's a few pics of my items...lots of freebies in there: And no, I don't come home and snap pictures each time...don't have time for that, but every now and then I like to document it in pictures for a few friends who are trying to learn. I also like going here , here or here too to check out the latest deals! Try it!!!

2011-04-06T19:21:00.000-04:00

♥ ♥ Drum roll please...the winner of the contest for a free custom created surprise .....she has a daughter whose name begins with a D and is turning 2 in August and would like browns and pinks, etc...yes it's you Erin! Congrats...Random Number Generator finally picked you - you are always faithful to enter each time. I drew 2 more names for $10 gift certificates: Melissa Korta and Jaycee's Boutique! Thanks yall!

Good Luck in the Contest! Ends 4/1 at 9pm EST!

2011-03-31T17:45:00.000-04:00

You can still enter! Go here to this post!

Entrants so far: From Facebook: Laura K-3 entries(1 entry + 2 pics), Cristy H.-4 entries(1 entry +3 pics), Erin J-1 entry, Jane S.-1 entry, Jaycees' Boutique-1 entry, Jill B-1 entry, Kristie G-1 entry, Melissa K-1 entry, Wendy H-1 entry, Bre G-1 entry. From my blog: MG-1 entry, Amy(Tj and Amy)-1 entry From mailing list-Stacey B-1 entry

Bunny Applique Tee

2011-03-31T17:30:00.000-04:00

This bunny applique from Planet Applique stitched out beautifully!!  I have a very serious addiction to going there and buying appliques for my machine!!  But it's such a great site with good quality designs, plus she always throws in designs for free!

Want to Win a Free Rae*Danae Surprise??

2011-03-25T12:30:00.000-04:00

It's that time again...I like to do this about twice a year......make something special..for free...for one f my special customers, blog followers, Facebook fans, mailing list members, etc!!!
~~Boy or Girl!!~~~ :)

Comment here on your favorite colors/size/style of something you'd want if you win and tell me a favorite item of mine..You can even send me a link to something you like a lot...I will take entries for 1 week. (Deadline 4/1 9 PM EST)..Surprise will be created this summer..my choice..but with your input! Extra entry for each pic you post on my Facebook Rae*Danae Fanpage wall or my personal wall of someone wearing a Rae*Danae!! You can also email the pic(s). I will announce the winner after the deadline and then we'll start planning! Good luck and thank you for your continued support!!!

Little Stitchers

2011-03-23T16:23:00.000-04:00

Please head over to my friend, Karen's, Etsy SHOP and check out her new patterns! We will be trying some of these out in my sewing school very soon and my students will love them! I am excited to try them too because Karen is one of the reason I started this whole journey of teaching others to sew so she is my inspiration! :) Her sewing school Just Sew You Know is awesome! She helped me when I was setting up my sewing school, SEW Blessed Sewing School which is a great success too! I, in turn, helped my niece set up hers which is doing awesome too! We are so blessed to be doing what we love!! Visit Cristy HERE! And as always for your sewing needs please visit my shop or Rae*Danae Designs website and let's create something awesome together!!!

Boys Quilt Fabrics~ Gray and Blue!

2011-03-09T10:20:00.000-05:00

These gorgeous gray and blue fabrics from Michael Miller arrived yesterday...these will be used for the 2nd quilt I am making...one for a baby girl and one for a baby boy...pictures to follow!

4 W's

2011-03-08T21:19:00.000-05:00

Lent begins tomorrow and I plan on doing more of 4 W's:

WORD: Read my Bible daily
Water: Drink more and hydrate
Walk: Walk more - 4/5 days a week
Weights: Throw some weight lifting in my week - 2 days

Should be a good 40 days!!

Quick Examples of Deals This Week...Click the Pics to Enlarge!

2011-01-18T19:24:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to share with those who have asked how easy it is to snag some quick deals...here's 3 from CVS, Staples and Hancocks .........CVS 101 here! Who can't use namebrand toothpaste, floss, dish detergent, etc...and the bows are great for B'day gifts, not just Christmas!...and I use so much elastic each week for my sewing school and skirt orders and I was happy to find it 60% off at Hancocks. And how easy can it get turning in empty ink cartridges to Staples for $2 each? (10 per month)I have to go in there anyway so why not get $20 free to spend in the store on other ink cartridges, school supplies, stuff for my binder, copies for my sewing classes, etc. Let me know what kinds of deals you find!!!

My Other Hobby-Couponing!

2011-01-17T12:29:00.000-05:00

I love any chance I get to save my family $ so my other hobby besides sewing is couponing/refunding! I have made some great lifelong friends through this hobby and it is also fun! The most important thing to me tho is I have to stay organized! After I get my Sunday paper and pull out my inserts(I only get 1 Sunday paper now but between neighbors saving them for me and buying a few extra I plan on getting 4 or 5 each week) I check out Southern Savers site for my list match-ups. I don't have time to go thru flyers and figure out the sales, etc so I rely on sites like Southern Savers(free) or THIS(fee involved so I don't use this one). I also only focus on Publix, CVS, and Rite Aid and let the other deals pass me by...I am not stressing out over getting every deal out there...it'll come around again! I wait til an item goes on sale or is BOGO(buy one get one) and then use my manufacturers coupon and sometimes a store coupon too plus usually a store credit like CVS's Extra Care Bucks on the item and stock up while it's cheap or free. What I do not do is cut a coupon and just go in the store and use it....that doesn't save me money...I wait until it's the best price and then combine the coupon with it. I also don't cut every coupon out..I file my inserts away by date and then when my sites tell me when to use it, I'll know right where it is. I also print coupons from the internet. That's why I have to stay organized...I use the binder method. Here's some good info and also some pics of mine. I have a big binder and a small one I keep store coupons in and carry in with me. I use The Krazy Coupon Lady's free category sheets. (She was just on TLC's "Extreme Couponing" show)....and no, I am not Extreme like that, LOL!! We have to keep a balance!! :)
Binder info:
http://thekrazycouponlady.com/2010/09/24/how-to-start-your-coupon-binder-this-ones-for-you-kathie-lee/

some youtube videos on binders:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOfZQa42jt8&feature=related

Birthday Surprise!

2011-01-16T15:15:00.000-05:00

I'm pretty sure this is my most favorite birthday gift ever! Yesterday I celebrated my "29th" (and holdin') birthday and my husband and daughters surprised me with a delicious homemade coconut cake, going out to eat Mexican after Mass and a one of a kind handmade project! I've been hearing power tools out in our garage for a few day and smelling spray paint, etc. but I had no idea what they were cooking up. Here is my yummy cake and the wonderful surprise! When my girls were little(they are 14 and 12 1/2 now) we would measure their growth on a kitchen cabinet each year. There are even random places on there where friends were over and got measured or baby dolls or toy horses. Well as the years passed, we outgrew that sweet little cottage and moved 2 years ago to a bigger home. One of the things we did before we moved was remove the cabinet door and build the new owners another one...I couldn't leave that one behind and have someone paint over all the measurements. So for the past 2 years it's just been sitting in our garage. Well, my husband made a custom shadow box for it so it'll be preserved and hangs proudly in the family room now! I am so proud of him...and it looks so "Pottery Barn-ish" although he didn't know that as he was making it, LOL. Just my style. And to top it off he put a picture up top of the girls when they were small and entitled it "Growing Up." We joke with big sis and say we can't tell if she's putting her arm around little sis or choking her, LOL!! Anyway, here's some pics! I know a lot of my friends were waiting to see what the surprise was!! Enjoy!

We have a WINNER!

2010-12-18T21:22:00.000-05:00

Random Number Generator picked "Whileys" as our winner..so you get a free tee! Just email me with your letter and name you want! iamsewblessedATgmail.com

Thanks for all who played! We'll do it again soon! :)

2010-12-15T20:51:00.000-05:00

Example of the CURLZ Font Tee!

2010-12-15T12:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of you who are entering the contest for a free tee with a Curlz applique letter and embroidered name! How cute it will be! You have until Saturday night at 9 p.m. EST. Here is an example of one I did earlier...this one belongs to our last winner! The fabric I used for the applique is a sneak peek into one of the fabrics I'll be using in my Spring items! :)

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL: Today only...the 5th one who emails me and says hi will have 5 extra entries added! Tell me you are trying for the 5 extra!
iamsewblessedATgmailDOTcom

GO For IT!!!

CONTEST!

2010-12-11T20:12:00.001-05:00

Hi Lovely Ladies! Since there are so many new promotion rules to follow on FB I am doing my next giveaway on my blog instead! I got this new applique pack and it is called Curlz...I am dying to try it but of course my girlies are too old to wear this stuff! So I will create one for one of yall! Here are some pictures of the font.

I will make the winner a tee with the large letter of their choice and then embroider a name across similar to this bib picture.

Here is how to enter:
If you don’t already “LIKE” the official Rae*Danae Designs Fan Page on Facebook, then please click the link and when you get there, click LIKE. Come back here and comment that you did! That's an entry! If you already LIKE the page, comment on here! That's an entry!

Copy the URL from this blog post, and share it on YOUR facebook inviting your friends to enter the contest on my blog as well. That's another entry!

Become a "follower" of this blog and that's an entry! If you are already following, then just comment you are and that's an entry!

Post a pic on the Facebook fanpage of someone in a Rae*Danae design and that's 2 more entries! Or you can email me a pic to iamsewblessedATgmailDOTcom

So you could get 5 chances in this! :) I'll run this for a week so next Saturday at 9 pm. EST is when it will end. The custom tee will be sent out the first of January!

Giveaway!

2010-12-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

Run, don't walk, over to Lou's blog and enter this great giveaway!

Rudolph!

2010-12-09T13:25:00.002-05:00

This was a fun little set to create! Part of it is an upcycled stocking! Here's how! (Click on each pic to make it larger)

2 sets are available! Size 5/6 and Size 7 Go HERE!!!

Mall Deals!

2010-11-22T18:54:00.000-05:00

My daughter and I went to the mall today and we got some great deals! You do have to print some coupons tho! We saved $131.00 at JC Penneys! Spent $12.00 at Victoria Secret(For lotion for my Christmas gift) and will get at least $10 back....Forever 21 always has steals of deals!....Hallmark we spent $1.75 for $12 worth of stuff...and $6 for $20 worth of stuff.....Payless...$28 for 4 pairs of shoes!...Bath and Body Works....full size items for $5.25 each...reg. $10.50...some of the links are below!! We are tired!!! But we got lots of Christmas gifts and Fall clothes for her!

YANKEE CANDLE DEAL: Buy 2 large jar or tumblers, GET 2 FREE!

Works out to be $12.50 each…..reg. $25 each!!

http://www.yankeecandle.com/cgi-bin/ycbvp/product_detail.jsp?oid=6990668

http://www.yankeecandle.com/yc/html/retail/Email_HTML/webCoupon_WXF011H1.html

(Good thru Nov. 28^th)

BATH and BODY WORKS: Cobine the Buy 2 get 1 free with the coupon for “Spend $10 and get an item free up to $13”!!

http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=10935413&cp=2484525&cm_re=black%20Friday%20home%20page-_-Sub%20Feature-_-SC%20Secret%20Wonderland

http://ebm.cheetahmail.com/r/regf2?aid=528207786&a=0&n=47&D_CODE=3674&cm_mmc=CH-_-20101122VIP-_-10021984-_-mainPRINTCOUPON&cm_lm=mommysavesbig.com&t_params=I_CELLID%3D10021984%26I_CODE%3D5%26EMAIL%3Dmommysavesbig.com

Free4U online code or 3672 Coupon expires Dec 24^th I think!

Makes the 4 fullsize items only cost $5.25 each! Reg. $10.50 each!

HALLMARK deal!

$10 off a $10 purchase!!

http://f.update.hallmark.com/s/5/474648236/exp.html

JC Penneys $10 off $50 and lots more coupons here:

http://printable-coupons.blogspot.com/

VICTORIA SECRET:

Now thru Nov. 30^th spend at least $10 and get your secret reward card worth at least $10 to be redeemed 12/1 – 12/19…or if you are really lucky it could be worth $10, $50, $100, or $500!

http://www.victoriassecret.com/secret-rewards#/secret_rewards

Mail Organizer!

2010-10-10T20:33:00.000-04:00

I recently painted my kitchen and need to add a few more neat things to the walls, so you will see this on my wall hopefully soon!! And maybe one in my sewing studio too!!! Thanks for a great tutorial Noodlehead!!! This is just what I've been needing!

Inspiration!

2010-10-09T11:59:00.000-04:00

When you think of beautiful fabrics and inspiration, you think of Amy...I'd love to get her new book, more and more of her fabrics and live in her gorgeous studio....Here's a good video!

Image from HERE

Hooked

2010-10-07T22:22:00.000-04:00

My sewing buddy and friend got me hooked on this

Thread Art!

2010-10-05T16:20:00.000-04:00

Thread as Art

So pretty!!!!! This is driftwood! This picture came from Tastyaeru via Craft:

Congrats, Kady!

2010-10-02T16:36:00.000-04:00

Congrats on winning the Holiday twirl skirt!!! And thanks to all who entered the contest! Thanks to Sabrina for hosting it for me!!

New Background

2010-09-27T17:39:00.000-04:00

Another Cute, Free, Happy background to try from Shabby Blogs!!! Go HERE to snag one for yourself!

Enter to WIN!!!

2010-09-27T17:33:00.000-04:00

Hey peeps......go HERE to enter Sabrina's drawing she's hosting for me...I will make the winner a beautiful Holiday Twirl Skirt!!!!

While you are at it...FAN ME on Facebook! We always have fun and I list my new stuff there before here!

WELCOME!!

2010-09-27T14:33:00.002-04:00

WELCOME Noodles and Milk readers! Good luck in the Holiday Skirt drawing!!!!!

Quick on-the-go Breakfast

2010-08-31T11:02:00.000-04:00

My girls love smoothies and I like one later in the morning or mid afternoon.....here's a quick one.....
fresh or frozen strawberries,
vanilla protein powder,
skim or whole milk,
fresh or frozen blueberries,
almond milk,
lowfat vanilla yogurt
ground flax seed,
Splenda

Of course my girls don't like all the extras like flax seed but it's a good on the go breakfast in case we have to take it with us.....sometimes I freeze the leftovers and take with me if I have lots of errands to run! Next up.....coffee smoothie!!!!

Adhesives..Don't Try to Save a Buck

2010-08-31T10:44:00.000-04:00

I tried saving a buck or two and bought a cheap adhesive.....don't! I use these temporary spray adhesives for my embroidery when I'm out of sticky backed stabilizer and you get what you pay for.....so I went back to the expensive stuff......($12-$20) a can but it lasts me....we'll just use the other cheap stuff for art projects that don't need to be sewn through!!

2010-08-20T12:52:00.000-04:00

Some new things in the shop HERE!
The pumpkin and candy corn tees can be personalized with your child's name!

2010-08-16T14:52:00.000-04:00

Most days my sewing students smell what is cooking in the kitchen whether it be the oven or the crockpot...(sometimes I teach til 5 or 6 and don't have time to get back in there so luckily it's put in the crockpot earlier in the day)...tonight is Apricot drumsticks! ....slap some chicken legs in a casserole dish...pour on some Dale's marinade, fresh garlic, salt/pepper, apricot or orange marm. preserves(about 1/2 of jar), a touch of brown sugar and some EVOO(Extra Virgin Olive Oil)...very easy and cheap! Serve with veggies and over rice....cook at 350 til legs are done and have a golden brown or cook all day in crockpot!!

Yummy! I want to try this!!

2010-08-12T23:33:00.000-04:00

Homemade Ice Cream without the machine couldn’t be easier! (Courtesy of Amanda!)

Basically, you start with 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 can of Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk.

Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks…

Add your flavors, toppings, and mix-ins to the sweetened condensed milk…

Then fold in the whipped cream.

That’s it! Freeze and enjoy!!

We are Making New Pillows...

2010-08-11T08:11:00.000-04:00

One of my adult sewing students and I are making these adorable pillows! Can't wait to see the finished products! And these. And if time allows, this adorable sewing machine cover!

Satin Flowers

2010-08-11T06:50:00.000-04:00

My students and I hope to make some of THESE. Just so beautiful to look at!

Pretty

2010-07-24T01:49:00.001-04:00

LynnVisible by

My New Website!

2010-06-29T22:19:00.000-04:00

It's finally coming together..slowly but surely! Come on over and check it out!!! Rae Danae Designs

Thanks to DONNA for helping me out so much!!!!!

Boy's Nursery Ensemble

2010-06-29T19:58:00.000-04:00

I am almost through with this nursery set for a dear friend who is expecting a little boy in July. She chose some of the sweetest "Wheels" fabrics! I designed a simple crib quilt(tutorial to follow - I took pictures of the process) with squares, and a white border to accompany the embroidered name...then did simple quilting. We made it big enough to have a little overhang for when he moves out of the crib into a toddler bed. The back of the quilt is the softest minky dot in a teal blue. I am also making two pillows and two 96" curtain panels. I can't wait to see pictures of it all in place with the painted walls! I also made the "Big Sis" a surprise to take along to the hospital when he arrives...this way she can have a little quilt to cuddle and announce to the world she loves her new little brother!!!

Yummy tastes of SUMMER!

2010-06-25T15:28:00.000-04:00

YUM...

Our Little Sewing School is Growing

2010-06-23T23:41:00.000-04:00

Camps are full but what about joining me for Fall sewing lessons? We are filling up fast! I already have 6 new students to add to our roster this Fall! I have some homeschool timeslots left! Contact me! It's so fun and a wonderful lifelong skill!

SEW Blessed Sewing School click HERE to visit!!

I am so thankful to be able to stay home and do this!!!!

PILLOW INSPIRATION, etc.

2010-06-22T16:29:00.001-04:00

Just add to my ever growing list of things I'd like to make this summer....I like them all!!!!
I'll have to visit this page more often!

Florida

2010-06-19T11:01:00.000-04:00

A quick flight to Atlanta and then Florida to Grandma and Grandpa's house and to the beach! We were so blessed to get to fly this time as it usually takes a good 10 hours. Lots of fun and sun! And pretty flowers and gardens...Grandma even had caterpillars going through the life cycle in her garden...this reminded my girls of elementary school where they watched the stages....lots of lizards too. H and D went jetskiing...M and I chose to sit by the pool, relax and read...and of course we had to get some shopping in.....

A Summer Day Outside With My Girls....

2010-05-24T20:38:00.000-04:00

Michaela and I love to play around with my camera...we are by no means professional or even know what we are doing but we like to take "artsy" shots and play around with the "blurred background"...I don't have an SLR ...just a top of the line point and shoot but there is a way to get that blurred background look manually. I turn on my little macro button(the little flower on most of mine) and zoom all the way in....then I move back until my subject is in focus and that creates the blurred background with subject in focus like a portrait. That's the opposite of what I usually do with macro...I usually zoom all the way out and take the camera up to the thing I want to do a super close up of. Michaela took the one of Coconut above and this one of the Ipod.

HERE's another tutorial for how to do it another way...we are trying this next!! Until we have 1000's of dollars to spend on our dream camera, this will do just fine!!!

My pretty girls.....:)

Monogrammed Cuffs

2010-05-24T18:48:00.000-04:00

I like the look! I had an order to monogram some men's cuffs and then I liked the look so much I grabbed some out of my husband's closet! I barely made it with the thread tho! I came so close to running out of black on my other order!!

Tacky Day at School

2010-05-05T22:03:00.002-04:00

Sweets in the Streets

2010-04-24T09:16:00.000-04:00

Halle's art class at Davidson did "Candy-Coated Scenes of Downtown Augusta" and hers was one of the ones picked for a notecard pack that they are using for a fundraiser for the art dept. I bought a pack for Mother's Day for myself! (Each pack is $6 if you think you might want one)......cute pictures! And took a lot of work!

Panda cuteness...

2010-03-31T16:38:00.000-04:00

"You go...I'll just stay here and rest my head a bit...."

Flip Flop Bucket

2010-03-31T16:30:00.001-04:00

I want to make one of these this summer!! So cute and easy. And look at this price! It's cute too but I think I can make it much cheaper!!!

Red Letter Words

2010-03-30T17:33:00.002-04:00

I just love the look of these signs.......

2010-03-27T19:08:00.000-04:00

I wish I'd seen this years ago!

Sewing School Update...

2010-03-21T16:50:00.000-04:00

Lots of fun and learning in the sewing room these past weeks! I have had 4 new students to begin recently and some of yall are even earning free lessons from referrals..way to go! I also have a new Mom starting this week for one morning a week...can't wait to see what she comes up with! God is good for sending me more students so I can do what I love while staying home and helping out with my household and be available to take and pick up my girls(Thanks, D for helping me with the days I have later classes!!)....this along with my Rae*Danae Designs sure keeps me busy, but I am so blessed!!

Pi Day

2010-03-20T23:15:00.000-04:00

Pi Day ....my daughters go to a fine arts magnet school and they got to design a tee for Pi day...a fun way to learn boring pi!! Did you know Hobby Lobby has these great colored tees for kids for only $2.99??

I tried a new pattern...

2010-03-17T20:35:00.000-04:00

The "Analise" by Portabellopixie(Sandy Henderson)...it was great!!! I made both the party dress and the patchwork twirl.....now some of my students want to try the skirt option....should be fun!

Oh How I wish this tree would stay around...

2010-03-17T15:12:00.001-04:00

It blooms for such a short time!! It is an old Japanese Magnolia out front that is just so beautiful to watch....the blooms will be gone soon tho...And I couldn't resist this cute one of our dog, Jake.

Signs of Spring

2010-03-17T14:58:00.001-04:00

My 13 y.o. daughter is getting pretty good with her close-ups....here's some signs of Spring from my yard...(well, #1 is a weed but a pretty color nonetheless!) HERE's another priceless Spring pic from a year ago!

OUCH!!!!!

4 My Buddy Madeleine....

2010-03-16T00:11:00.000-04:00

You are going to be a great BIG SIS!!!!!

A Special FAIRY Dress

2010-03-16T00:09:00.000-04:00

Can't wait to see your beautiful pics Adrianna!
Your grandmommy sure did pick out pretty fabric for you and I loved making your dress!

4 RYLEE

2010-03-16T00:06:00.000-04:00

Our newest Birthday creation....Have fun Rylee!!!

More stuff.....Busy Bees...

2010-03-16T00:02:00.000-04:00

4 The BOYZ

2010-03-14T16:13:00.000-04:00

I've had fun sewing for some little boys lately..here's a sneak peek:
Thanks to Caleigh for the great pics!

New TINKERBELL Set Listed!

2010-02-14T13:05:00.000-05:00

Come visit us for the Spring Designer Challenge where we were given the same fabrics and then allowed to make something, and add our twist to it...I added tulle, ribbon, etc. to create a Tink set....One of a Kind and best fits a 4/5. I also have a sweet Easter set up as well.

GO HERE to SEE!!

Also, if you'll notice the "Faith Double Layer Dress Top" in my TINK auction, I just want to give AIMEE at SEW SENSIBLE a shout out because she was nice enough to donate several patterns to my beginner sewing students! Now that Spring is right around the corner we can try these patterns! Thanks again Aimee!

A Sneak...TINK! Spring Designer Challenge!

2010-02-12T10:54:00.000-05:00

Starts this Saturday night at 9

Recycled Men's Shirt!

2010-02-12T10:50:00.000-05:00

One of the MOMs who took sewing classes from me made this sweet dress from her husband's old shirt! So sweet and so is the little model!

You can make one too! Go HERE
Just google "recycled men's shirts" and lots of tutorials will come up!

Lost in Munchkin Land!

2010-02-06T14:15:00.000-05:00

One munchkin dress done! One to go! I was hired to do 2 munchkin dresses for a local play. Costumes are definately more detailed than regular clothing but it hasn't been bad. I love all the colors this mom picked out. They were told to have a crinoline made as well, so I just constructed a simple twirl skirt with tulle attached. I like the little petal and pompom details.

Sewing School Fun!

2010-02-05T17:59:00.000-05:00

A little hearts background for fun....

2010-02-05T17:53:00.002-05:00

Cute huh?

A New Bag...

2010-02-01T21:51:00.000-05:00

Finally finished my new bag that Karen showed me how to make on our recent sewing marathon where we shared projects and talked about our sewing schools! I had to fix a few things that were bugging me and decided to slap a monogram on there as well while I was at it! I carried all my coupons/lists/calendar around in it today and it was very roomy! Fun!

And this light...

2010-01-30T23:07:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Ruffles & Stuff's blog! Another Dollar Project!!!

Pictures belong to Ruffles & Stuff.

Coffee Filters? Really?

2010-01-30T22:57:00.000-05:00

I am soooo making this! I saw this mentioned on Mg's blog and I'm trying it! I can't believe the things they come up with on the DOLLAR STORE CRAFT site!!!

On the road to savings in 2010...

2010-01-17T19:51:00.000-05:00

I used to be big into couponing when my girls were little and even before they came along....I have some awesome friends from these days too.....we all used to see what great deals we could get and try for the covers of our favorite magazines known as "Refund Express" and "Refund Cents" which I just bought another 3 issues of because the deals I get from reading it cover the small cost of each issue. Here's one of the covers I was on with my girls....I had just gotten a brand new giant mailbox to fit all the packages and refunding goodies I would get daily!

So now I am getting back into it for the new year and have done great so far!

I just take a little time on Sunday to gather my coupons and read about the deals on Southern Savers and since she has done all of the work for me, it is a breeze!! I focus mainly on Publix and Rite Aid. If you click on the Publix link, you will see an example of a list I try to follow. Obviously there's not many meat or milk coupons so I try to buy and cook what's at its lowest price like chicken breast and ground beef one week...pork chops and chicken thighs the next. I keep track with this awesome excel tracker from The Coupon Project! Be sure to read her "Getting Started" for some great tips! Another funny Mom to follow is Collin from Hip2Save...she even takes you with her to the store each Monday on a video! Here's a peek at my recent receipts! I have consistently saved over 40% on my weekly trips for a family of 4!

Saving $60 and $70 in coupons and in-ad coupons isn't too shabby! I will post again soon on some examples of deals I have gotten. Have a great night!

Dollar Store Cuteness..

2010-01-15T17:19:00.000-05:00

Who knew the Dollar Tree had such cute wrapping paper, computer paper and wall decals! (I like polka dots!)

Red Glitter Shoes

2010-01-12T13:54:00.000-05:00

I made these for the 12 munchkins...each one has their letter on the front in red glitter(found at the dollar section of target in the Valentines section)..the rest of the shoe: I printed off the template from here and then traced onto red cardstock and red glitter cardstock (50% off at Hobby Lobby) and then glued together after folding on the million folds, lol. Then glued blue and white gingham on the inside and wrote "Oz" and filled with treats. The girls loved them!

Happy Little Munchkin

2010-01-12T13:47:00.000-05:00

My dd had the time of her life in the production of Oz the other night! She had a great opportunity to play the part of one of the munchkins and guards with several of her ballet buddies. This is the travelling Broadway cast and they were very nice to our girls! They even got to pet one of the stars of the show - Toto who had her own dressing room by the way! I was able to snap some quick pics at the last rehearsal before the show and one afterwards as we were leaving but they didn't allow any during the show :( Take my word for it...the costumes were awesome!!

Fun Challenge...

2010-01-10T16:55:00.000-05:00

Can't wait to do this! I should receive my surprise fabrics in the mail tomorrow!
Different Designers are given 4 1/2 yards of surprise fabrics

With this fabric, they have three weeks to design and sew an ensemble.

They must incorporate into their design

all of the fabrics that they have been provided. The model on their team will model it for them and provide pics.

Skirt Winner and Gorgeous Photography!

2010-01-10T16:47:00.002-05:00

I recently had a drawing hosted for me and the winner got to design a custom skirt made by me....here is a pic of her Hello Kitty skirt creation! She told me the theme and colors and I created it! Plus she did some awesome photos for me while we were at it! The bottom collage photo is an example of her work! (Click on the collage pic to make it bigger)

Check out this cute new set I created...it has little bunnies/eggs/ducks and would be great for around Easter time! I have just enough for one or two more sets to be made. Thanks so much again, Michelle Go check out her beautiful photography! And isn't little "A" a doll??

December Projects

2010-01-10T16:32:00.000-05:00

The girls and I managed to get lots of gifts made this Christmas! Here's a sampling. I may put some of the towel sets in my shop!

Holiday Sewing Worshops 2009

2010-01-10T15:52:00.000-05:00

SEW Blessed Sewing School held 3 different Holiday sewing workshops this past December. All the students had a great time and were busy for 3 hours straight sewing gifts, wrapping them and making cards. This was great practice for them to put all their skills to the test and sew for someone else. Everyone came back in January and reported that the recipients of their gifts were very happy and proud of them for their handmade gifts. 4 of my students got sewing machines for Christmas too and they are so proud of them!!

More to come!!!

2009-12-18T17:41:00.000-05:00

My girls all dressed up for their first Winter Ball at school! We even let them wear a little makeup. They had a ball with all their friends and hubby and I got a few free hours to go see The Blind Side!

BOGO SALE in my Shop!!!

2009-12-07T10:55:00.001-05:00

Go here for a sale this week! Buy one get one for equal or lesser value free ...must have SALE in the title! First Come, First Serve!!! Some new stuff listed too!! UPDATE: The HELLO KITTY was the first to go as I suspected!

Win This Beautiful Wall Hanging!

2009-11-30T22:30:00.001-05:00

This lady has such inspirational ideas! And if you go HERE, you could have a chance to win this beautiful icthus wood wall hanging.....I'm entering as we speak!

They Don't Make Them Like This Anymore!

2009-11-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

I had a special surprise this Thanksgiving...my brother came to visit and brought me this! It is a beauty and looks so pretty in my sewing room! It was kept in excellent condition and I'm trying to find a date on it somewhere.....can't wait to try something out on it today!

Twill Tape Cuteness

2009-11-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

I will be getting some of these for Christmas!! Too cute!

Go visit LILLA LOTTA on Etsy!

Be Sure to go Enter!!!

2009-11-24T10:51:00.000-05:00

Denise over at Whimsy Couture is graciously holding a drawing for me! Be sure to go enter!
You could be the lucky winner of the stripwork twirl skirt I love to make! Plus a gift certificate! While you are over there, take a look around....I've used some of Denise's patterns in my sewing school and in my own sewing and they are fun!
Go HERE!

Come Let Us Adore Him!

2009-11-22T16:43:00.000-05:00

So sweet! And thanks to little C and Susan for the fun pics! I have enought to make 2 more of these so go HERE or contact me at iamsewblessed@gmail.com if you want one!

Sets are listed...

2009-11-15T17:04:00.001-05:00

These 2 new sets are listed in my shop !

Possible SISTER SETS! Size 4/5 range and size 18 months-2 range. Many designer fabrics were used on these fun 'mismatched' type twirl skirts...including Amy Butler and Lila Tueller.

Sneak Peek...

2009-11-15T13:12:00.000-05:00

I've got this sweet little set in a size 4/5 and and a coordinating one in an 18 months....more pictures to follow!

2009-11-13T15:07:00.001-05:00

Some new things for sale HERE

Mailing List Members - remember to check your email for the free surprises that will come with purchase!

I'll make the sample!

2009-11-13T13:03:00.001-05:00

I'm already thinking I need to go HERE because I want to try this!

I think some of my sewing students will want to try this!!! And I surely don't mind making the sample!

Alabama and Pumpkin Cuties!

2009-11-11T14:02:00.001-05:00

Soooo sweet! 3 recent outfits I made!

I Want To Live Here!

2009-11-05T11:07:00.001-05:00

SEW To SPEAK

Photo courtesy of April Rhodes

View a beautiful slideshow of their shop HERE!!

New Things From the Sewing Students!

2009-11-04T09:23:00.001-05:00

Everyone is learning so much!

Don't Look Now...

2009-10-27T15:00:00.000-04:00

UH OH will I ever stop wanting patterns????

I Want to Do This!

2009-10-27T08:22:00.001-04:00

The girls over at Shanty2Chic sure have some great(and economical) ideas! This one will be perfect for the blank wall in my bedroom......The middle letter is your last name, the left letter your name and the right letter your husband's name!

Picture borrowed from their website for inspiration!

In the Spotlight: LISA!

2009-10-26T17:44:00.000-04:00

I just have to take this time to brag on one of our Moms in the Moms Night Out class!! When she began this class she had not even operated a sewing machine! Now, 8 or so lessons later, she is creating this cuteness for her daughter!! I am so proud of her and happy to know she thinks it's fun and worth coming to(since she is also one of the ones that drives the farthest to attend class once a week!) Her first clothing project was a pair of pants but she added a wide girly ruffle at the hem and now we all call them the "Lisa Ruffles" when we too make a pair! You go girl!!

If any of you other Moms want to show and tell...please email me a pic...I'd love to brag on you too!

Off to the model...

2009-10-25T20:57:00.003-04:00

Several sneak peeks....some things coming up...going to my little model tomorrow. Notice the dress I bought on clearance, chopped it up and it made it's way into one of my mis-matched twirl skirts!

Much Work + Creativity + Mother/Daughter Time =

2009-10-22T11:23:00.004-04:00

Isn't this gorgeous?? Some friends of mine tried their hand at making fondant cakes...can you believe this is their first try???

What a great mother/daughter time!

AMY Butler's NEW Line...."LOVE"/Heather Bailey's BOOTH

2009-10-14T08:24:00.003-04:00

This has got to be one of Amy's prettiest!!! Also go HERE to read about quilt market and see some of the pretty booths! Oh to be a fly on the wall!!!!Look at this pic of Heather Bailey's booth!!! Beautiful!!

Move 'em Out...

2009-10-09T17:21:00.004-04:00

UPDATE: The Pumpkin dress has been claimed!! Thanks!

I want to move these out of my Etsy Shop so if you see anything you want just give me an email or comment! Priced to sell! I will gladly combine shipping for you! And remember, mailing list members get a surprise!!

Each one of these is ready to ship except the ruffle pants which are custom...please allow 2 weeks. Thanks for helping me clean out my sample closet!!!!

Should I Make...

2009-10-09T09:31:00.002-04:00

a wallet?? Selvedges are just so pretty(in my humble opinion)