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Review + Giveaway: sewExpecting eBook

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sewexpectingcoversewExpecting is the new eBook from Leigh Ann Tennent (The Object Project and Strawberry Truffle).  If you’re an expecting mother, or know someone who is pregnant, or just like to have sweet baby gifts on hand just in case, this eBook is for you.  In it, you can find patterns and instructions to make 20 – yes, TWENTY – different projects for baby:

  •  A basic infant bib, plus a patchwork and appliqued version.
  •  A basic toddler bib, plus a patchwork and appliqued version.
  •  A toddler bib with a storage pocket that doubles as a crumb-catcher!
  •  A basic burp cloth, plus a patchwork and appliqued version.
  •  A burp cloth with an innovative storage pocket!
  •  Three styles of changing mats.
  •  A very cool diaper clutch with instructions for 2 looks.
  •  A textured securtiy blanket to keep little fingers busy!
  •  A satin lovey.
  •  A very simple, super-quick quilt!

sewexpecting2All of these projects are boutique-quality, assuming of course that you construct them of quality materials. 

The instructions are straightforward and are geared toward those with limited or no sewing experience.   (Experienced sewers can probably skip straight to the patterns and use the instructions just as a quick reference guide.)  If you’ve wanted to learn how to sew but haven’t known exactly where to start, sewExpecting is a good place to begin.  The beginning of the eBook gives quick instructions for basic sewing, applique, and patchwork skills that you’ll need to create the projects.  Most of the projects are constructed with from simple shapes, with minimal fuss.

sewExpecting is available from Strawberry Truffle for $22.00.

By now, I know there are more than a handful of you who want a copy of sewExpecting for your very own.  And so Leigh Ann has graciously offered to give away one copy of the eBook to a lucky Craft Gossip reader.  Here’s how it will work:

To enter, post a comment on to this Craft Gossip post telling me which SewExpecting project (listed above) you think will be the first one you’ll sew.  One entry per person, please.  Deadline is Friday, August 7, 2009 at 10:00 pm CST.  I’ll choose a winner at random the following day.

Comments

  2. I think I’d probably stitch up the burpr cloths and bibs, as my daughter is expecting our first grandchild in September.

  3. My little guy is just starting to eat finger foods.. We could certainly use a few of the toddler bibs with crumb catchers around here!

  4. I’m responding to the give away of the SewExpecting book. I would sew the diaper clutch first. I have a friend that just had a baby and she asked if I knew how to make one! Thank you for the opportunity to be in this contest. (I’m new to using blogs)

    Pam Guerrette

  5. I’d go for the bibs. Not only are the pictures too cute, but we’re drowning in drool over here, so they’d be functional too!

  6. What a lovely book. I’d like to try one of the change mat patterns first – I hate the hard plastic thing that came with my babay bag and would like to use something softer with my baby girl.

  7. Looks like a great book! I would start with the diaper clutch. I’m also very curious about the burp cloth with pocket :o)

  9. I think I’ll make some diaper clutches! I have 3 friends who are expecting, not to mention my three. 🙂

  11. I’d love to make the diaper clutch! We have lots of friends who are expecting…lots of baby gifts to make! 🙂

  13. The first project that I would love to make is the patchwork infant bib… and I know a few babies to make them for too! The book looks awesome!

  14. I would DEFINITELY try the textured security blanket first! My little one loves holding things in her hands – she’s VERY tactile and I think this would be a perfect gift for her!!!

  15. For sure I would make one of the bibs first. I am due any day to have my fourth baby and all the others have been terribly spitty. I’ve been looking for great bib patterns for this new little one.

  16. I think I would start with the textured security blanket. It may keep my 1st busy when the 2nd is born.

  17. We’ve been TTC for 22 months, I’d probably start with a quilt to help keep my mind occupied…Maybe do a few mini-quilts in memory of my angel babies.

  18. I think the first thing I would make is the patchwork burp cloth since my 4 month old is teething this would be GREAT! Love the Craft Gossip website it is a daily read for me.
    thanks

  20. I would love to have this book because I have small children and I’d like to make the small quilt with printable muslin with pictures of their grandfather who just passed away.

  21. Oooh! Great projects! I have two little ones in diapers, so I think I’d go for a changing mat first. I need something better than just a blanket to take with me when we go places. I’d love to keep off the germs in style!

    Thanks for the chance to enter!

  22. I would love to make a changing mat. I have been looking for a good pattern for that for awhile. The ebook looks wonderful. You can never have too many baby patterns!

  23. diaper clutch for me! my best friend is pregnant and very creative so it would be lovely to have something orginal and funky to give her

  24. Hello,,My first will be A basic infant bib, plus a patchwork and appliqued version ..

  25. A textured security blanket to keep little fingers busy!

    I’m looking up on making me own diaper bag and blankets so… that’ll be the first project!!!

  27. I have many baby gifts to make and I think I would start with a changing mat.
    Thanks for the giveaway!

  28. As an expectant mother, I am intrigued by the Diaper clutch. I remember being all too annoyed the first time around carrying a huge bag, and after a while I basically just grabbed up 3 diapers, when on the run, and stuffed in my pocket. I’m curious to see how the diaper cluth can replace and minimize the diaper bag.

  29. hmmmm…i think its a toss up between the bib and the burp cloth. I have a spitter at home!

  30. I will make the super quick quilt first, since I’m running out of time for a baby shower gift!

  32. I’m having a hard time deciding on a first project. I would probably start with the burp with pocket, then the appliqued bib and then the simple quilt. I will need to do several because I have one granddaughter of 5 months and one grandchild due in Jan ’10

  34. Love that this book is for beginning sewers, because I am that exactly, but want so badly to do more DIY stuff for our baby due in December and our 2 year old toddler. The first thing I would make is a baby quilt….I’ve wanted to learn to do that for years!!

Have you read?

Sewing for Seniors: A Roundup of Practical Patterns for Aged Care and Dementia

As a caregiver to an elderly parent navigating the challenges of aging and dementia, I’ve found myself on a mission to create thoughtful, practical items that assist in everyday care while maintaining a sense of dignity and comfort. Over the years, my sewing projects have shifted from creating cute clothes for my children to sewing things that support my parents through their later years. It’s not always easy, and it can be heartbreaking at times, but crafting these items has brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you’re in a similar situation and looking for sewing patterns and tutorials to support your loved one, whether they are in a wheelchair, dealing with dementia, or simply needing adaptive clothing, this roundup is for you. These patterns offer solutions to daily challenges, from sensory stimulation to maintaining dignity and comfort. 

Adult dignity bib 

When caring for someone with dementia, eating can often become a messy experience. An adult dignity bib offers a simple but effective way to help prevent spills and ensure that your loved one remains comfortable and clean during mealtime. This pattern provides a great way to create a stylish and practical solution for dignity and comfort.

How to Turn a Plush into a Weighted Toy  

Weighted toys can be a calming and comforting tool for seniors, especially those experiencing anxiety or agitation. This tutorial shows you how to transform a soft plush toy into a weighted sensory item, offering soothing pressure and comfort to help relax your loved one. It’s a great way to create a personalized, comforting toy that provides sensory input.

Eye Pillow – Weighted 

Tulip Walker Tote Bag 

Special Needs Bib Pattern — CraftBits.com 

Make a Fidget Quilt with Rob! 

Fidget quilts are fantastic tools for dementia patients, offering tactile stimulation and promoting calmness. In this video tutorial, Rob guides you through the process of making a fidget quilt, showing you how to add various textures, buttons, zippers, and other engaging features to keep your loved one’s hands busy and focused

Making Fidget Quilts for Dementia Patients | Madam Sew – MadamSew

How to sew a fidget quilt 

How to Make a DIY Lycra Sensory Bed Sheet | And Next Comes L – Hyperlexia Resources

Lycra sensory bed sheets are an excellent choice for providing calming pressure during sleep. This pattern from And Next Comes L explains how to make a DIY Lycra sensory bed sheet that can help your loved one feel secure and relaxed while they sleep, which is especially useful for those with sensory processing issues.

Wheelchair And Walker Carry Bag Sewing Pattern

Tutorial: No-sew adaptive sweatshirt for wheelchair users 

Tutorial: Adult-sized bib – Sewing

How to Make a Fidget Blanket 

Sewing pattern: How to Make a Fidget Quilt 

How to Make an Adult Pocket Diaper

For individuals who need additional care in maintaining hygiene, adult pocket diapers can be a game-changer. This pattern teaches you how to create a comfortable, functional pocket diaper, ensuring your loved one stays dry and comfortable throughout the day.

How to Sew an Adult Front Closure Swim Diaper 

How to Sew a Fitted Adult Cloth Diaper

For those looking for an eco-friendly and budget-conscious option, sewing a fitted adult cloth diaper can be a great solution. This pattern offers detailed instructions for creating a well-fitting, reusable cloth diaper for adults who need additional support.

The Linda Pants – Free Adaptive Sewing Pattern

Adapting Creatively: Wheelchair Rain Poncho Tutorial

This wheelchair rain poncho is a practical and thoughtful accessory for wheelchair users. This tutorial shows you how to make a poncho that will keep your loved one dry while they’re out and about, ensuring they stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

Adapting Creatively: Split-back Wheelchair Jacket

 Weighted Blanket

Weighted Lap Pad

For those who need a little extra calming weight throughout the day, a weighted lap pad is an ideal choice. This simple but effective pattern helps you create a lap pad that can be placed on your loved one’s lap for a soothing, calming effect that promotes relaxation and comfort.