Home Ec Interview

A little background info in the sewing department.

Q: How did you learn to sew?

A: I have one specific memory of hand stitching some barbie clothing that I had made to my barbie's body when I was a little girl. Another memory is from sometime during elementary or junior high when I raided my Meemaw's vintage fabric stash to make a simple patchwork doll quilt. I can't remember at what point in between those two memories I first started sewing on a machine but the crafty influence from my mom is undeniably the reason I started. She used to make my dresses for church, Halloween costumes, Christmas presents, and fancy pillows for our home.

My Meemaw gave me a Sears Kenmoore sewing machine as a wedding gift eight years ago and I've since sewn for myself and designed and sold product for Red Velvet Art's shop and online craft classes.

Q: Why do you love to sew?

A: I love being resourceful and using my creativity to personalize my own home. Sewing has been a way for me to make things that I love when I can't find anything in stores (or in my budget) as well as a way to pass on keepsakes in the form of quilts, clothing to my children. It's also provided me with the means to contribute to our family finances while staying at home with our young children. I love the way it ties me to so many generations of women and satisfies that strong creative urge to make things.

Q: What is your favorite thing you've ever made?

A: Easily my first large patchwork quilt. I was inspired by the colors of a vintage crazy quilt my SIL owned and gathered vintage and new fabrics for weeks before spending a good chunk of my Fall break cutting and sewing blocks together. It was the same weekend that we found out I was pregnant with our first child (Sebastian) so I like to attribute my desire to take on such a big project to hormonal changes! I still love the colors in my first big quilt and the uneven rows are charming. (Ruby shown on quilt below.)

Q: What is your favorite technique?

A: I'm really bad with following patterns and technical directions and I'm all over the short cuts when they present themselves! Is that a technique? Taking short cuts? I think it must be. ;)


Q: What part of Home Ec are you most excited about?

A: I think I'm most excited to read the comments from students who have taken their machines out of the closet for the first time in awhile, have overcome their frustration/intimidation/insecurities with making it work for them, and have suddenly realized their reason to live. Or at least realized they can do it, too! Positive feedback from students that have enjoyed previous online classes is always a thrill but I love feeling like I've/we've introduced someone to their new favorite thing.

If you've always wanted to learn how to use that sewing machine you found at a garage sale or could use a few tips on how to get your button holes to turn out like they should, you should join us for Home Ec, an online class designed to teach you how to enter the land of back stitching and squaring up with confidence. You'll get the skills you've always wanted and resources to become quite the innovative crafter/homemaker/business person/best Christmas present maker ever.

Class starts on August 10th. Don't be late!!!

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. If you'd like to hear more about the other lovely teachers you can read Leigh-Ann's interview here and Courtney's here. They are super duper!

Pretending to Fly Away on Paper Airplanes

I'd love to be with my family on a city exploration vacation this week. I've been craving another summer time road trip to an unfamiliar place. One where we can collect those illustrated post cards with the name of the state in bold, interesting type across the front!

Rather than continuing to dream of one, I decided to channel that restless energy into a paper airplane garland to add some whimsy and fun to our dining room space.

I kept the leftovers out from a drawing party that Sebastian and his new friend, Hope, had last night while her mom, Katie, and I discussed our late night crafting habits and what not.

The string has been up since Sebastian's birthday party because I love the idea of a changing garland in this space that reflects each season/occasion. I folded paper airplanes while Ruby explored the underbellies of the new chairs.

Unfortunately, she's at the same sitting height as the uncomfortably hard lip of the seat.

So, while we wish for Brett to come home and take us on an adventure up Route 66, we'll enjoy our travel themed garland and color our own post cards.

Where do you wish you were today?

xoxo,
Rachel

Abra Cadabra

I've replaced the old chairs with the new ones.

I spray painted a wooden candelabra with Krylon paint in Celery. Three thin coats.

I'm thinking about painting Ruby's high chair white so it'll fit in with the rest of the crowd. The table is from Craigslist, too. It's kind of wonky and needs another coat of white paint to cover up some art projects from months past but it's shape is great.

Sebastian and I have been having some interesting conversations lately. One of the running themes has been how much he loves anything that is 'red all over'. He wants a new house that is all red and has twenty train rooms and a big swimming pool. He thinks we should paint these yellow chairs red.

Don't worry. I don't keep red spray paint in the house.

He also told me in the car today that he wants Daddy to come home. Me, too, son. Me, too.

xoxo,
Rachel

The Lovelies From This Weekend

So, I almost didn't stop at my favorite vintage joint in Mammoth Springs, AR this weekend because I wanted to spend more time with the kids and Brett's brother and sister but the opportunity presented itself in the form of a missed nap and waiting for long lost company (that I WISH lived so much closer to Springfield so we could see them all the time!).

I let Brett's sister drive us in the hip hop van in case we found a load of vintage. Ha! No, I really just like to listen to her music and pretend like I'm 16 again, too. Just kidding. Not really. Anyway...(tired)...I found the apple cookie jar first. I saw a big strawberry one and decided against it but then the apple one was less kitschy and I thought it should come home with me. A little ironic that a cookie jar is in the shape of a healthy fruit, though. Right?

I turned the corner and saw this one and gasped out loud. I've been a fan of this folksy, floral, embroidery piece ever since I first saw it a few years ago and figured it was one of those elusive finds. Imagine my glee when it was on the wall for $11.00. I took it to the front and the lady who is always working laughed and told me she found it, almost threw it away, then thought twice because she knew I'd eventually be in and that I'd buy it! It made my day that she not only recognized me but knew what kind of taste I had in vintage! I love that.

The silver bowls have yellow enamel in them. How pretty! One will go in my room on my night stand if I ever get all the clean laundry put away. The floral photo album is kind of beautiful, too. I think I may use it for an art journal cover because I have about 100 loose pages that are needing a home. I love that I'm needing to be picky and STILL finding good vintage!

Have you found anything extra special lately? What's on your dream vintage list?

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. After looking at the bowls carefully, I discovered they are Catherine Holm of Norway! Even more of a treasure now!

Retro Beauty School by Miss Elsie Flannigan

The lovely Elsie Flannigan is offering a new E-Course all about personal fashion style! Her latest class includes 10 sessions that utilize video lessons, step-by-step photos, and articles covering topics like '3 Thrifty Makovers', '10 Pretty Ideas for Under $10', 'Step by Step Hairstyle Guide: 1960's Bump and 1970's Curls' and 'Vintage Shopping Tips for Pros'! Find out all the details in this post and then head over here to join in. This new class is perfect for anyone interested in developing their own vintage style!

We're in Southern Missouri this weekend letting my 16 year old SIL drive us around in the van with hip hop and pop music blaring. With a trip down to the Springs and Sonic drinks for all, it's been a pretty fun weekend. Be back soon.

xoxo,
Rachel

Quadruplets

Lets just say four of these fiberglass shell chairs used to belong to one of the sweetest, vintage loving, trendy mamas I know and she was kind of sad to part with them. I, however, was thrilled when I saw she had put them up for sale and was finally able to bring them home yesterday afternoon.

For now, they are occupying a few different corners of the house but they will soon replace the two Danish modern wooden chairs and old cafe chair that are currently used at our dining room table. They are the perfect shade of yellow.

Favorite vintage purchase of the year. By far.

xoxo,
Rachel

Eight Point Five Ish

Month # two that I don't get this shot on the 7th but I'm okay with that. Better late than never. I love that Sebastian jumped in when he realized we were having fun. He's not as into having his picture taken these days so I decided to seize the opportunity even though he was wearing his pj's and had some sort of milk moustache from breakfast. We heart moustaches.

Full set (minus month one because I was in and out of the post-baby zombie state) here.

xoxo,
Rachel

Choosing Motherhood: Pep Talk To Self

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I'm working hard to fill our next two weeks with lists and planned, thoughtful, intentional moments of being a part of each others lives rather than just bumping into each other as we wander to our own tasks. I'm not good at this and I will probably fail at least twice the first day.

I want my kids to get the best version of this but a lot of times I just don't know how to get excited about the things I feel are most important to a rich family life. Or I don't know how to get past day three.

Here's to choosing meal planning, sticking to a budget, playing music instead of summer TV while I work, committing to teaching Sebastian there is more out there than yogurt and chicken strips and goldfish crackers, to keeping the laundry in the drawers, to strengthening real life friendships so my kids can see how to be a friend, to exercising regularly again, to getting enough sleep, to having routines, to using humor to redirect, to being more affectionate.

I remind myself in moments of emotional laziness or weakness that I only get to be a young mother to young children once and that I can either do what is easy or do what is best. I don't want to look back and regret being distracted or busy. I want to put the hard work in so that my kids have every opportunity to be well-adjusted, interesting, creative, compassionate, healthy individuals. I want to learn more about the new places my kids are in developmentally so I can be prepared to handle those normal bumps in the road that sometimes leave us all frustrated. I also want to gain perspective on being gentle with myself when I don't live up to my own standards.

How do you feel like you're a good mom/wife/friend? What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to those you're in charge of or share life with?

xoxo,
Rachel

p.s. Sixteen more days until we get Brett back!

Home Ec - Previews Part 2

Last week Leigh-Ann, Courtney and I announced the details of HOME EC, our Online Sewing Class for Beginners. We shared full details plus previews of the 1st half of our projects... today we're excited to show you the 2nd half with insights into what each project will teach! Visit here for full class details and registration info.

Project Previews - Part 2
(Previews Part 1 here)

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Removable Pillow Case with Piping
 Take your pillows to the next level with piping that makes them pop! You'll learn how to create a removable pillow case and add piping to add depth and create a more finished shape. Introducing: removable cushion case, piping.

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Duvet Cover
A duvet can be a quick and affordable way to update the look of your bedroom...and it can be a lot more affordable if you make it yourself! We'll give you a few different options for fabric, dimensions, and construction so you can decide what works best for you. Introducing: buttonholes, fabric care, ruffles.

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Fabric Cubby/Tray
Those square shelving units and fabric cubbies are really popular, but sometimes it's really hard to find cute ones, especially in the right size. We'll show you how to make your own! And, if you don't have a shelving unit, you'll also be able to use the techniques to make neat little fabric trays, perfect for office desk organization or craft show displays. Introducing: constructing a cube, working with heavy interfacing.
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Padded Laptop Case
There's no reason your laptop should be in a plain black sleeve... let's create a case that makes you smile each time you use it (while still being protective)! Sized to your computer, this padded case is built to last, beautify and protect. Introducing: Working with Foam.

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Full Apron
Make an Anthropologie inspired apron sure to flatter any shape. This simple pattern allows your fabric selection to stand out with a chic bow detail at one shoulder. Give them as gifts this Christmas! Introducing pleated pockets.

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Leather and Canvas Purse
The purse that actually looks like you bought it at a boutique. Learn how to add rich details to your creations by using leather and hardware like the pros. Introducing sewing with leather, box purse base, sewing with hardware details.

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Mod Table Runner (Double Sided)
Dress up your tea party with a table runner than calls all eyes onto your pretty table display! Similar to quilting, this tablerunner is made by joining materials to create visual interest and seamed in a way that flattens your piece and shows a level of craftsmanship that impresses all your guests! (Note: The above tablerunner fabric is more traditional than mod. You'll see a mod table runner in the class, promise!) Introducing: Secure Seaming, Straight Lines that Show.

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Drafting a Simple Pattern
One of the fastest ways to learn how clothing is constructed is to tear it apart. If not literally, then visually (we'll cover both options). Using a basic piece of clothing from your closet, we'll recreate it "quick and dirty" style. These make great projects for late at night when the fabric stores and mall are closed and you really want to wear something new the next day! Introducing: what types of clothing are easily drafted, working backwards, simple construction.

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 Hanging Shoe Organizer
 Shoe organizers are not a new invention but cute ones just might be! These hanging shoe organizers are a stylish way to display and store 12 pairs of shoes (or more) and use vertical space to your advantage. Introducing: Tabs, Rows of Dimensional Pockets and a Secret Tip.

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 Messenger Bag
This grey & yellow corduroy messenger bag feels like the 'safe purse' for girls who don't love handbags (also great for students). Built to last with looks that impress, you'll love carrying your books and belongings in your handmade messenger bag that's sure to make you proud of your new sewing & construction skills! Introducing: Working with directional texture, hardware connectors, adding decorative personality.

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Reading a Commercial Pattern
They're tempting, they're intimidating. You're pretty sure they're written in a different language. Commercial patterns open up a whole new world of clothing (and accessories/craft) construction that would otherwise be impossible for "civilians" (read: not trained fashion & pattern designers) such as us. From selecting a pattern, to learning how to read the "step by step", we hope to give you the confidence and knowledge you need to conquer these wonderful little mysteries. Introducing: determining your size, skill level, understanding fabric & notions, using your pattern "correctly", dealing with the mishaps.

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Flying Geese Quilt
The cherry on top of this crafty class! Use your new confidence to create a beautiful, large quilt for yourself or a loved one. Introducing patchwork quilting.

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How to Invent & Adapt Projects
Different from any of our past online classes, in Home Ec, we are allowing you to take the projects we teach in this class and reproduce them for Commercial Use if you choose (but not to reteach). This means that if you own a business, taking Home Ec can expand your range of products and potential! We hope that you will find ways to personalize the projects to make them your own, and in this Tips post, Leigh-Ann will give recommendations for adapting a few of the projects into your own style and brand (also beneficial for gift making!). Even better, learn how to think like an inventor... how to use the skills you've learned in Home Ec to invent and design completely new projects exclusive to YOU!

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If you would like to register for Home Ec Online Sewing Class, please review the full class info & course outline here, along with project previews part 1, value, registration info and testimonials. Class officially begins August 10th. 
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Questions? Please e-mail Leigh-Ann (FreckledNest@gmail.com) with "Home Ec" in the subject line.

Back Home And Ready To Chill

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We turned Monday's trip home into an all day event, leaving around 10:30 a.m. from Ada, Oklahoma and getting home around 9:45 p.m.! We managed to fit in lunch with a college friend (Hi, Lauren!), a visit to my dad's new office, two antique stores, one thrift store, three potty breaks, two stops to feed a loud, hungry baby, and a detour to get some frozen yogurt. It was a little adventure and I'll be sure to show you what treasure Sebastian picked out all by himself and the nautical-inspired vintage dress I found for $3.00.

Tuesday is officially for cleaning, restocking the fridge, planning the rest of our time without Brett, and spending some time doing whatever Sebastian wants. Thank you for ALL of your fabulous comments in my last post. I'm hearing an overwhelming YES to more tutorials and the best kind of affirmation to the mix of topics I'm sharing over here. I'm so thankful for you guys!

xoxo,

Rachel

Your Thoughts, Please.

I'd love to know three things from Smile And Wave readers.

1. How would you classify this blog? If you had to choose one category to fit it into, what would it be?

2. Would you like to see more craft tutorials, personal family anecdotes, vintage and visual inspiration, or a good mix of all of the above?

3. What age group/occupation/gender/family status are you? (10-20, 20-30, 30-40, 40-50, 50+) (job, wahm, sahm, student, etc.) (female/male) (single, married, mom, etc.)

I'm just curious as to who you are and how you see my blog and what I can do to make this place even better for both of us. Thanks for the time it takes to answer these questions!

xoxo,
Rachel

Choose Your Own Adventure

Would you rather park in a field somewhere?

Kick back in a hammock in the woods?

Find yourself a a teepee?

Or just stay at home?

xoxo,
Rachel