2010 Sewing Challenge

**peanut** · 01-05-2010, 10:55 AM

I have to break things into steps. I have the attention span of a gnat. And my computer and spinning are in the same room as my sewing machine. Lots to distract me! Oh, and the bookcase with all my crafting books and DVDs...

Yep, distraction is my middle name.

Funny, I grew up hearing from adults around me that I needed to learn more self-discipline. I'm 50 now. Could be they were right! I'm afraid I'm not "self-disciplined" enough to hold a job. I just get depressed at the thought of all that time wasted doing something other than what I want!

Thankfully I have a very understanding DH on that front and a determination to learn about frugal living so we can survive without me working.

**ephofma** · 01-05-2010, 04:23 PM

I have been waiting for this challenge to crank up for 2010. I have what seems to me an unusual sewing project for January. I have a pair of mid-calf pants that I bought at the Wal-Mart several years ago for $2. They fit perfectly and wear wonderfully. I have worn them so much that my thunder-thighs have worn holes in the material around the inseam. They are navy blue. I have resewn the inseam twice already and can't anymore. I have tried iron-on patches. Nope. So, I have another pair of Wal-Mart pants bought even longer ago that are ok, but I don't like as well. They are worn thin in the same area. My project is to take the material from the front of the respective legs and undersew them to the seam area of the other pants. Then, I intend to sew around the old holes for re-inforcement. Hope this works. It is an experiment to see just what kind of patching I can do that will be at least somewhat sturdy. That is my project for January - wish me luck.

**Debbie-cat** · 01-05-2010, 08:10 PM

Great project ephofma! Now that is using things up! I am impressed. Good luck!

**MandaRenee** · 01-05-2010, 11:15 PM

I'm afraid I'm not doing well on this challenge so far. I've been using my mom's sewing machine (mine is still broken) and quite frankly I don't feel like braving the cold and snow to go down there and sew. Sadly, she only lives 3 houses down. lol

But I do have a few things cut out and ready to sew. If I ever get down there I'll be ready to go.

**frugalfranny** · 01-06-2010, 12:38 AM

Great thinking E...be sure to post pics.

VL - same to you about posting pics when your napkins are done.

MR - maybe you need some snowshoes!!

Can't wait to see all the projects.

I don't think my schedule will settle down where I can sew that much this week at all.

Will keep hoping....

**MandaRenee** · 01-06-2010, 12:50 AM

FF I think you're right or maybe a sled and some huskies. Or better yet a working sewing machine. Its on my wish list for next Christmas. I'm hoping to get one that does embroidery too.

**ddmartin** · 01-06-2010, 01:18 AM

I'm in on this one. Went to the store last Saturday and bought some nice Christmas fabric I found in the discount bin.

**frugalfranny** · 01-06-2010, 01:24 AM

Welcome aboard ddmartin..........glad you have joined us and can't wait to see pics of what you are working on.

We love pics!!

**vickilynn** · 01-06-2010, 07:26 AM

pictures pictures pictures
I have $1.26 in my savings jar....goal is to buy a camera so I can keep FF happy!

**Debbie-cat** · 01-06-2010, 09:17 AM

Cut out some napkins yesterday. Enough for a set of eight, double sided. I am going to use a french seam. If they turn out nice they will be used as a gift for my SIL for Christmas (along with eight double-sided placemats). If they don't turn out we will use them for everyday.

**Pemberleyan** · 01-06-2010, 10:06 AM

EPHOFMA, I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who does those repairs.

Okay. I really want to get sewing more this year. Lord willing, I will be able to do all of this:

1) long countertop "skirt" for sewing room
2) cover for miniature ironing board
3) ironing pad
4) finish t-shirt quilt
5) cushion for dog bed
6) 3 curtains for sewing room
7) duvet cover for day bed comforter
8) 2 bolster covers for day bed
9) assorted pillows for day bed
10) seat covers for 4 bar stools
11) 2 curtains for bedroom

**peanut** · 01-06-2010, 11:33 AM

I'm taking a break to sew an apron from a pillowcase...a bib apron. I'm kind of designing it as I go along...so it's a creative endeavour for me. I'm using some Internet patterns as a guide though...a very loose guide...

Pemberleyan: thanks for reminding me of some of the projects I need to do...

**vickilynn** · 01-06-2010, 12:48 PM

Debbie - that french seam will really make those napkins look top dollar!

**VanVivCam** · 01-06-2010, 01:01 PM

I am sooo joining this challenge. I am going to make a baby sling for a friend of mine at work. I will do this project tonight and wash more fabric for later projects. I am thinking about making a bunch of baby stuff (hats, bibs, slings, hooded towels) to try and sell to a children's clothing store. I know the owner and I think some of my projects could bring some extra money to her store and ME.

**frugalfranny** · 01-06-2010, 01:17 PM

Originally Posted by vickilynn

pictures pictures pictures
I have $1.26 in my savings jar....goal is to buy a camera so I can keep FF happy!

That is too funny VL.......my love of pics seems to be added to my reputation. Not sure that amt. will do much toward a camera VL---I will have to help you save!!!

Originally Posted by MandaRenee

Or better yet a working sewing machine. Its on my wish list for next Christmas. I'm hoping to get one that does embroidery too.

OH - how neat! Hope you get it! I have been looking at them - and salivating!! I have enough reg. sewing machines, so think I would get just an emb. machine. My friend has one and she loves it. Sets it up to emb. while she is sewing. Not sure I would use one enough to justify the cost.