2013: More baby, less sewing

2013 came and went in a blur. A wonderful wild blur. We had a baby, built ties to our community, traveled a wee bit, and just tried to stay afloat doing the parenting thing. Initially I was going to write about how disappointed I was in having only made six garments. But then I thought, WHATEVER. Y’all, I kept a human alive AND I made six garments while caring for a baby that goes on napping strikes like it’s his job. I deserve a ribbon or something 🙂

Of course in 2014 I hope/dream/wish to sew a lot more. These last few days I’ve been prepping my sewing space. G gifted me with a new sewing table he and his dad put together for me. They used this tutorial. It has some fabulous cubby storage that I plan to store my stash*.

Mama, can you make me some clothes? Yes, dear. Next year.

I also plan to finish a number of projects I started and haven’t finished (Scout Tee, Juniper trousers, moccasins, leggings…). Before Ollie, I almost always finished a project. These days I, like a goldfish, get excited by a new sparkly must-make item and abandon what I was working on. No more. I want to finish a project and check it off my to-sew list. And no rushing. Just take my time and enjoy the method and time to myself. I really want to improve my seam finishes. A lot of my favorite garments have started to fall apart due to some shoddy construction *hangs head*. Shameful.

With little sewing time I intend to revisit old patterns. No tracing and little to no alterations. Perfect. I’ve been wanting to make another School House Tunic for ages. And also make the garments that make me feel confident and a bit flirty, like Clover trousers and circle skirts. I need more of them in my life.

Lately quilting has been really enjoyable for me. I like being able to walk away from a project and work on it here and there. I’m not into the cutting process but wow, once that’s done, all the pieces come together quickly. Also, I love seeing a it take shape. I’m thinking maybe I can join a quilting club and bring Blanche along. She recently joined Dotty and Sophia in my sewing team. She was born in 1935 but looks pretty good considering her age. She has a few chips here and there but sews beautifully. I love her and picture us top-stitching a pair of jeans together.

So my goals for the new year aren’t too grand but definitely doable.

Wishing you a Happy New Year. Now I am off to celebrate by eating carnitas burritos and brownie pudding, chased by some Prosecco. Fancy!

*2014 will bring on the stash diet. Join in if your stash is taking over your space.