From my studio last week: June 14, 2011

This week I made what might be my new favorite top. I showed you the first go-round of the shirt last week. This week I refined it by scooping out the neck a little lower and adding extra ease. Now I think it’s perfect!

The front is made from a dressy fabric. In this case, a vintage scarf. (Acetate – not necessarily a good choice for Arkansas summers…) The back and sleeves are made from t-shirt knit. So I get the comfort of a t-shirt with the look of a dressy shirt. And the bonus – there’s enough stretch in the back that it slides easily over my head. No neck closure needed. Yay!!!

While I was making it I stumbled across a new way to finish off the neckline. A happy accident that created a double edge – one finished, and one curled up around. It’s such an easy technique – I’ll be sharing a tutorial later this week.

And speaking of tutorials… Today I’m guest blogging over at Squiggly Twigs Designs with a tutorial for my Peek-a-Boo Shoulder Shirt. If you missed this tutorial before, go check it out over at Squiggly Twigs.

Next Pattern:

Christmas is one of those holidays that you just can decorate too much for. There’s no limit to the amount of holiday cheer you can bring into you home! There’s no such thing as too many Christmas decorations. You can bring Christmas décor into any room of the house – including the kitchen! Which is kind of fitting given how many Christmas activities and gifts are made in the kitchen. We’ve rounded up 13 Christmas kitchen accessories you can sew for your home or to give as gifts.

The list includes holiday themed hot pads, potholders ,aprons, and more that you can sew and decorate your kitchen all season long. Most are things you can make in an evening or less. These would also make wonderful hostess gifts for any holiday parties or gatherings you’re attending. Read on for the kitchen sewing ideas!