Join me in a crazy Sewing Pledge! What's the worse that could happen?
September is National Sewing Month and this September 2013 is the month of getting things done. How many of us have piles of unfinished projects? Whether we lost interest, got distracted with life, or realized it was a bit over our heads, that pile is always in the back of our minds. I actually feel guilty about my pile. Probably because I spent money on the materials, and if I never finish them, then it's money wasted. Or, I said I would make such-and-such for a family member or friend and never got around to it.
Well, no more of that. This September I'm taking on the challenge to actually COMPLETE my UFOs. Whether I love them or hate them, I will complete them by September 30th. Not only do they take up space, but there was a time when the sewing magic was very much alive with these projects. And maybe this time around, I can bring that back to life with new eyes.
Some of my projects are years old. Some are from last month. Some are nearly finished, while others have yet to be cut. If I spent money to get all the supplies, then I need to finish it.
I'll admit, this is going to be quite the challenge. I'm starting nursing school tomorrow, I have a 4 year old to take care of, and major crafting ADD. But at the end of a challenge, there is always a sense of pride and accomplishment. I want that sense of satisfaction. Finishing a sewing project is intensely rewarding and motivating. If I can do this, what else can I do?
Most importantly, I have to finish these projects or I'll have no room for new Christmas fabric.
First project up: He-Man and the Masters of the Universe!
Okay,
I'll admit this one is a little retro. But it's on Netflix and my little guy is hooked. So, naturally he requested a He-Man costume. Total cost: $12 and 1 day! Thank you to whoever illustrated He-Man for drawing him with such little clothing!
The most challenging part of this project was working with fur. You don't really "cut" it . Using a rotary blade, you slowly slice at the netting on the back. The goal is not to cut the fur, but to separate the fur by slicing the netting, and pulling the fur apart. Make sense? This way, you barely have any shedding. In fact, the only shedding I had was from where the store cut the fur.
I used an Universal needle and a Walking Foot to sew the fur. I also used a 3 thread overlock stitch on my serger to finish off the waistband using Maxi-Lock Nylon Thread. The netting is a bit rough. I didn't want it to cause a rash on my son's stomach.
The belt, chest piece, and wrist bands are vinyl from the home deck. I used a strong sew-in magnet for the belt "buckle" and purse magnets for the wrist cuffs. As part of this challenge, I don't want to buy more supplies. Unfortunately, I only had pink magnets left. However, He-Man does sport a pink tunic, so the color choice wasn't too far off.
The mock boots were rather tricky. I wanted them to sit snug on his leg, but that would have required stretch brown fabric (which I didn't have) or a zipper. I made an executive decision to take the lazy route and went with elastic. They were made with his calf measurements and an elastic casing at the top. Worked perfectly!
That was the very first project for my Sewing Pledge. At this rate, I'll need to work on a project every day. 22 more project to go. Who's with me?
Here's what I have:
- He-Man Costume - CHECK
- Vinyl Grill Cover
- Hunger Games Bag
- Superhero Jon Jon
- Quilt Block Pillow
- Suspenders
- Fix Hem on Cheap Dress
- Funky Chiffon Scarf
- Paper Piecing throw
- Linen Dress
- Linen Skirt with lining
- Fleece Blanket
- Vinyl Tricycle cover
- Rug
-Fleece sling pad
- Fabric plant holder
- Texas Fleece
- Satin Dress
-Wall Canvas Art
- Baby Quilt
- Pat's Curtains
- Mom's Sun Room Curtains
- Cousin Kathy's Curtains
I'm not entirely sure if this was a good idea.
