She's ALIVE!!!

Well, for the most part anyway ;) But I'm home and in the words of Dorothy(Wizard of Oz), "There's no place like home!"
So I thought I would just quickly check in this morning and share a couple of pictures from the expo. I was so busy and just forgot to really take any pictures. So sorry. It was a great experience. I had some of the most wonderful women take my classes. This is not being nice, just honest, I truly enjoyed everyone in my classes. Just such an energetic group and so eager to learn something new. So encouraging for me. The only problem that I had was with my voice. Thankfully I didn't lose it. I had pneumonia when I was in my early 20's and my voice has never been very strong sense. On Friday night I talked to my husband and he could hear that it was going and going fast. I had planned to have dinner with Connie Bontje of http://couturesmith.com/  and Kristine Balinski  of http://kbdesigns74.blogspot.com/, but I decided it was wise to stay in and rest. As I said, I made it through, so all was well in the end.
This picture was taken on Thursday evening by Rhonda Pierce of Schmetz Needles. This is Becky, the Tim Gunn of the American Sewing Expo Passion For Fashion contest. She is truly the mentor extraordinaire! She could give Time Gunn a run for his money!! You may recognize the top I'm wearing. It's from this Fabulous Free Pattern Friday post. I was told that while I was standing in line for lunch, people were taking pictures of my top from behind. Hopefully they weren't for the "don't wear this" file!!

As you walked in the door to the expo, this was the poster that greeted everyone. How incredible is that??? This was the garment that I designed for the Passion For Fashion Contest 3 years ago. It won the Audience Choice Award. My beautiful model Gabriel is standing along side. I think we both felt very honored.

And finally, a little something funny. The convention center is quite large. There are actually 2 large halls. On Saturday and Sunday there is a gun and knife convention in the second hall. A friend of mine shot this picture and I thought it was priceless :) The way the sign reads, you would think there's a gun and knife class at the sewing expo!! Well, in all honesty, I think there are many of us who have at times wanted to use a gun on our machines ;), or at least a knife on a project that has given us fits.    

I'll be back later this afternoon with our Me Made Monday link up post.
Have a wonderful day!
Rhonda

A Sneak Peek

Good Morning and my apologies. I have been so busy and I have not had a chance to concentrate on the next pant drafting post. Please stick with me, it will come, I just need to make a little more progress on a project for my class at the American Sewing Expo.
The American Sewing Expo's focus this year is on costumes. There's a lot more going on, but costumes are the focus. Cosplay and costumes in general are huge. So the class I am doing next Thursday will focus on creating a rather over the top sleeve, but there is a dress that goes with the sleeve, and here's a sneak peek. We will also talk about creating the dress as well. I like to pack as much into a class as I can.

The dress is made out of wool crepe and it's all underlined. I just couldn't help myself. I figure if I'm going to do it I may as well do it right :)

The gown is a little "Morticia Goes to the Ball," but I really like it. There's more coming, obviously!! The big sleeve will only be on one side. The other side will get a different sleeve. The dress has not been pressed by the way.

I should make great headway on the gown today, so please do stick with me on the pant post. As I said, it is coming, I just need to get this project off my to do list.

Remember to sign up for the contest to win a 1 year subscription to Sew News. You can do that here. Remember, you must live in the United States for this one and you must be a follower of this blog. So sorry, I wish I could offer it to everyone.  

Have a wonderful day!

Wednesday Morning Hello

Happy Wednesday Everyone!!! I am in the throws of getting ready for the American Sewing Expo and I still have a lot to do, so no Wednesday Showcase today. The next pant drafting post will be up later today.
I thought I would show you the third ribbon weaving project that we'll do in the Ribbon Weaving Class (page 7 of the brochure) at the expo. This one makes you think a bit, so it's a good exercise for the brain ;)

The piece is backed with a piece of velvet. It will become a skirt. There will be beads sewn into the intersections of the red ribbon. I am super excited about this piece!

Although I am not doing a Wednesday Showcase post today, I would still like to give a shout out to Mel of http://mel-allwrappedup.blogspot.com.au/ She just sent me the loveliest note to let me know that she had used my tutorial for drafting a peg skirt. Here's her note,

"HI Rhonda, can't thank you enough for putting together this tutorial, love the yellow dress in part 1, and the step by step drafting help with the mini paper pattern pieces. I was very happy with the way my skirt turned out following your tutorial, I've posted it here http://mel-allwrappedup.blogspot.com.au/2014/09/self-drafted-peg-skirt.html and linked to your blog a couple of times. Can't wait to give the dress a go."

And here's her beautiful creation,

with and without a belt. Didn't she do an amazing job?!!!

Be sure to hop over and check out her blog. If you would like to find the peg skirt tutorial, you can find it here and here. It thrills my heart to know that I've helped someone grow a little in their skills. Thanks so much for giving the peg skirt a try Mel!!
May we all have a wonderful and productive day!
Rhonda

Preparing for The American Sewing Expo

I've been working on my samples for the ribbon weaving class that I will be teaching at The American Sewing Expo. So I thought I would share 2 of my samples. I think they are rather pretty :)

I have another to share that is a little more involved than these are. While in class I will talk about practical applications and I'll have other examples as well. I think it is going to be a fun class! You can find the class on page 7 of the brochure, http://www.americansewingexpo.com/2014/2014_Reg_Broch_Download_LR2.pdf

If you are attending the expo, I will be in the Social Media Lounge on Friday from 10 to 12. Stop by, I would love to meet you in person!

One Incredible Sleeve at the American Sewing Expo

In my last post I told you that I've been busy working on projects. Sadly a few I can't share with you for a while...and I wish I could as oh my goodness was I ever happy with how they worked out!! But February will roll around much faster than we would like, and then the big reveal will happen :)
Now, for the next project that I'm working away on. This is a throw back to my costume designing days. I must admit, it's a lot of fun. I'm on the schedule to teach an all day class at The American Sewing Expo in Novi called, Incredible Sleeves and More.
So here's the first sneak peek.

The sleeve will be wired and a stay will be added to the interior of the lower section.
The pattern for the upper portion of the sleeve looks like this. Such fun!

I will share more of the dress that will be attached to the sleeve as I get it done.
In the meantime, if you are going to the expo, or have been thinking about it and you would like to learn to build something truly over the top, you can find my class on the 5th page of the brochure and it's number 20H12_TH.

I'm Teaching At The American Sewing Expo In Novi!!

That's right, I'll be teaching at the American Sewing Expo in Novi, Michigan this year!! I am super excited about this opportunity.
The expo will be held at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan, September 26-28th, with pre-show workshops on Thursday September 25th. You can download a copy of the brochure HERE.

Here's a list of the classes that I will be teaching. The first class is a pre-show, all day workshop that will be held on Thursday, September 25th. It will be a lot of work, but I think that anyone who takes the class will have a lot of fun too.

20H12_TH
Incredible Sleeves and More!
Rhonda Buss / Sewbussted
Using a basic sleeve pattern discover how to turn an
ordinary pattern piece into an over-the-top incredi- ble element of a garment. While learning to draft a
unique sleeve that’s perfect for an award winning
costume or couture gown, see how this technique
can be used to add interesting form to any aspect of
a garment. Learn cartridge pleating, anatomy of the
sleeve and how to build appropriate sleeve headers.

If you have followed the blog for a while, you may remember the skirt I did entirely of ribbon.




In this class you will go home with 3 different samples of ribbon weaving.

Ribbon Weaving Sampler
Rhonda Buss / SewBussted
(Hands On) Set yourself apart adding detailing to
your garments with a one of a kind embellishment.
Learn three ribbon weaving styles by making samples
of two color diagonal stripe, two color woven
design and open Lozenge patterns. Discover how
these techniques can be used in collars, cuffs, yokes,
jacket insets, bustiers, head pieces, pillows or even
an entire skirt for a stunning look. Kit Fee $25.00
Fri 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm 62C05a

Sleeves!!! The first class is a lecture and the afternoon class is a hands on workshop. 

Mastering the Sleeve
Rhonda Buss / SewBussted
Join highly respected blogger, designer, writer and
contributor to Sew News, Rhonda Buss as she shows
you how to take a standard set in sleeve and with
simple alterations, turn it into a square shoulder,
twisted petal and all points’ south sleeve. Based on
her popular Sleeves on Saturday blog post series, discover
how to easily add pizzazz to your next project.
Sat 9:45 am - 10:45 am 23A06b

Sleeves on Saturday
Rhonda Buss / SewBussted
(Hands On) Popular blogger, designer, writer and
contributor to Sew News takes her Sleeves on Saturday
blog post series to the classroom. From a basic
set in sleeve pattern learn step-by-step how to draft
a square shoulder sleeve with its many variations,
a twisted petal sleeve and all points’ south sleeve.
Discover how to add extra room to the elbow while
featuring it as a design and comfort element. A great
sleeve can make a simple garment really pop.
Sat 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm 72C05b

I will also be in the Social Media Lounge on Friday morning, so if you are attending the expo, but not taking one of my classes, be sure to drop by as I would love to have the opportunity to meet you.
In the coming months, I'll share my samples of the class projects
One last fun item, my garment that I did during the Passion For Fashion Contest last year made the back cover of the brochure!!!!! What fun!

A New Venture, Thrifty Thursday

Good Morning Everyone!! 

I have decided to start a new feature on the blog and call it Thrifty Thursday, Thursday because I plan to do the posts on Thursdays and yes, I'm a day late!

There are a number of the independent pattern companies who are offering free patterns, real patterns. I think this is a wonderful idea. It gives you an idea of their how their patterns are produced and sized without making a huge financial commitment except for a little paper and ink and of course your fabric and the little bit of time it takes to tape the pattern together. I am becoming a huge fan of pdf patterns. I love the instant gratification of being able to print it out and have it immediately and never leave my house!! So I thought that I would print off and make one pattern each week and share my thoughts. As for my thoughts, please understand that I try to live by the motto of if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. Now yes, I'm human and I may say something to a friend, privately, but not publicly here on the blog. I see this forum as a place to help build people up rather than tear them down. I hope that you'll find this new feature fun and informative. I have done a few pieces ahead and I have truly enjoyed what I've discovered so far.

My first piece features two lovely ladies from right here in Chicago. I did the oversized Hemlock Tee from Grainline Studios,

 and the Yellow Tail Camisole from Disparate Disciplines.

I made the Hemlock Tee out of a tissue knit that I purchased a while back at Denver Fabrics in Denver, Colorado. I think they have changed the name to Colorado Fabrics. Regardless, great store. If you are ever in Denver, you must make a stop and leave a little of your money behind ;)

I edged the top with a reptile knit that I got from Haberman's in Michigan. This is another must stop by fabric store if you are ever in the Detroit area. This fabric was actually a leftover piece from the outfit I did for the Passion For Fashion contest last year at the American Sewing Expo. I edged the bottom of the tee

as well as the bottom of the sleeves. She intended the sleeves to be more of a 3/4 sleeve, I wanted them to be a long sleeve so the extension worked out great.

 I also used the knit around the neckline.

This pattern is not a sized pattern, so just one size is given. Jenn gives the measurements of the pattern so you can decide if it will work for you before you print off the pattern. The pattern was VERY easy to put together, well drafted and I LOVE my top!!

I actually tested the camisole pattern for Mari of Disparate Disciplines so this is really a second  make for me. I love this pattern and you will see more versions of it later this summer. Lengthen the pattern and it makes a wonderful summer dress. It is also perfect as a slip. Just a great and versatile all around pattern.
On the website you'll see that you can pay for the pattern if you wish, but it is not mandatory by no means. If you would like to give one of Mari's patterns a try before jumping in and making a financial commitment, you are more than welcome to do so with this pattern. Just a note, I have tested all of her patterns and I have been very pleased with the drafting, sizing and overall quality of the patterns.
I did make one change to the pattern this time. If you look at the picture above, you'll see that there is a 2" wide band around the bottom of the camisole. I just wanted it to be a little longer, so I cut a 4" wide band, folded it in half and serged it to the bottom. Easy.

A little note about the straps, when I make this top, prior to attaching the straps, I try the top on with the bra I will wear underneath it and adjust my straps accordingly. I am rather narrow across my chest, so I usually have to cut a little off the sides in order for my straps to match my bra straps.
And now for the fashion show pictures ;)  

 The picture below gives you an idea of how the Hemlock Tee hangs.

 And finally, the Yellow Tail Camisole. Rather fun!

The Hemlock Tee is the perfect throw on top to wear over jeans or leggings and the Yellow Tail Camisole is perfect on its own and great for pairing under a loose tee like the Hemlock. Now go print one for yourself!!!

I Love My Little Anna!

As most of you know, I have participated in the American Sewing Expo's Passion For Fashion contest for the last few years. I was so very honored when I saw the garment that I created last year on this year's expo cover. I didn't win a place in the contest, but I was chosen as the People's Choice winner. I think that is pretty special:) Just quickly, I have to brag just a little. The model is Gabrielle. I absolutely love this gal! Wonderful model, gorgeous, so very sweet and she is brilliant on top of it all. She graduated as valedictorian of her senior class and she is now having a blast in college. I think she is going to set the world on fire!

 And here she is in the outfit that I created this year. Smokin'!!!!

The Passion For Fashion contest is sponsored by Babylock. I bought my first Babylock machine quite a few years ago, a serger. I LOVE this machine and I will not own any other brand of serger now that I have owned this machine. No one paid me to say that BTW! 

It's the Babylock Evolve, an eight thread serger, it basically does everything short of washing my dishes!! Fabulous machine. You can see that it is well used. I should have cleaned out my waste catcher before I took the picture. Their new serger is call Evolution. I have not looked at this machine, so I really can't say much about it, but if it is anything like my Evolve, it's a great machine. One of the best things about the machine is the way it threads itself. What a wonderful invention.

For the Passion For Fashion contest, there were three top prizes. In all honesty, I REALLY wanted to win. I was REALLY disappointed that I didn't. Actually, I did win third place, just not the place that I wanted :( But, if you've followed my blog for some time, you know that I believe that everything works out for the best in the end and that is true here as well.
The little machine that I won is the Anna and I must admit that I am so very happy with this machine. For a small machine, it does so much, has lots of stitch options, sews through very thick layers of fabric and it weighs almost nothing. For years I have lugged around a heavy Bernina machine (sorry Babylock!) when I travel. Not anymore though. Anna and I will now be traveling partners.

 There are a lot of great little features. It does have a free arm.

When you take the piece off for the free arm, you'll find a little compartment that is wonderful for storing the extra feet, bobbins, needles, whatever you might need when you are on the go.

Another feature that I really like is the thread holder.

It pops off for traveling! Great little feature.  I love it. I can just pop it off and store it with the extra feet and bobbins. Nice and compact.

Babylock is a wonderful and generous company. Each time that I have participated in the contest, they have always sent a thank you gift. This year they sent a pair of Gingher scissors, a pad with an attached pen, bottle cozies,

and a charger for the car. Great little advertising tool :)

In my thank yous, I can't leave out the American Sewing Expo team. First of all, they do everything they can to make a very stressful situation a little less stressful. They sent us home with a bag that has lots of great pockets. You can see my Metropolitan Opera travel cup stashed safely away :) At first I thought that the bag might be big enough to hold my machine, but sadly, it was just a little too small. But it gave me a great idea, I'll just make a travel bag for Anna. Every girl needs her own bag after all!!!

ASE also gave us a big roll of Create-A-Pattern. I have not given it a try, but it looks like a good product. You can read more about it here.

The garment I created was sent back to me this week. I'll blog a little more about the process of creating the outfit next week. I had intended to do it this afternoon, but my morning got away from me.
Whenever you are in the market for a new machine, put Babylock on your look at list. I've been very happy with the quality of their machines.

What An Honor!

A few days ago I received a note from the American Sewing Expo staff that was rather cryptic, "click here and take a look at this year's brochure. We think you'll be quite happy." So I did as I was told and to my amazement, here is what I saw!!!

You may remember that this was the garment that I created last year for the Passion For Fashion contest that is held each year at the expo. This contest is like a mini Project Runway contest. The contestants arrive on Thursday night and choose their models. Once the models are chosen, each contestant has about 20 to 30 minutes to take measurements. The next morning the contestants arrive by 8. At that time they are given their challenge and a specified amount of money to spend for fabric and products to complete their challenge garment. Last year the challenge theme was "Fashion Bugs Me." This was my challenge bug,

The contestants have all day Friday to work on their garments. They return on Saturday and work until around 3 when their model returns for the first time since they were chosen on Thursday night. At that time, the contestants have about an hour to fit and make any necessary changes. The judging begins followed by a fashion show later that evening where the judges choose a winner. The audience has some say so in the judging as they get to choose the Audience Choice award and thanks to all who voted, I won this award!
I have looked through the brochure for this year's expo and it looks like it is going to be a fabulous event. If you have not seen this year's brochure, here is a link, http://www.americansewingexpo.com/. Just click on the big gold star and the brochure will download.
Are you going?!!!!