March 2012: Spring Break, Here we come! Threadjackers take over the world!

[DMGeurts]

But I am your second favorite, right? Huh? What are you mumbling??? I AM your second favorite, right? right?

For sure!!! Definately my 2nd favorite... Considering that I only know 3 Tennesseans...

However, my inlaws have a house in Knoxville - they don't currently live in it - but they plan to retire there... Does that make me more of an honorary Tennessean... after all, they are sort-of blood relation????



D~

 

[Lidian]

Sorry about the advisor - makes no sense to me either.

Well, I think the lines app will work for you today. Just use the one for TSM, and you should be fine.

D~

I tried the TSM time ... and it was waaay off. I'd rather have waited for TSM!

I ended up breaking the rules and registering myself. What are they gonna do, kick me out?

But I am your second favorite, right? Huh? What are you mumbling??? I AM your second favorite, right? right?

We can all be favorites! There's plenty of us to go around.

For sure!!! Definately my 2nd favorite... Considering that I only know 3 Tennesseans...

However, my inlaws have a house in Knoxville - they don't currently live in it - but they plan to retire there... Does that make me more of an honorary Tennessean... after all, they are sort-of blood relation????



D~

Tell them to retire and then visit them often. Then we can meet up frequently and you can hand deliver all the clothes you're making for me.

And you were already an honorary Tennessean, even before this information came to light!

But seriously, come to Knoxville - it's ... well ... it's orange here.

 

[DMGeurts]

I tried the TSM time ... and it was waaay off. I'd rather have waited for TSM!

Sorry, but I really feel you should have Fast Passed it. Next time - you'll remember.

I ended up breaking the rules and registering myself. What are they gonna do, kick me out?

Liddys a rebel... I hope you were able to get all the classes and times you needed.

We can all be favorites! There's plenty of us to go around.

Tell them to retire and then visit them often. Then we can meet up frequently and you can hand deliver all the clothes you're making for me.

And you were already an honorary Tennessean, even before this information came to light!

But seriously, come to Knoxville - it's ... well ... it's orange here.

They are getting there - trust me. I must be missing the "orange" meaning... Must be something like... Come to MN - it's... well... it's cold.

D~

 

[Lidian]

Sorry, but I really feel you should have Fast Passed it. Next time - you'll remember.

I checked later, and the machine was being refurbed.

Liddys a rebel... I hope you were able to get all the classes and times you needed.

I got all but one, and it wouldn't let me register -- said I didn't meet the prerequisites ... even though I do. I have an A+ in the prereq class. Going to walk in today and tell them to add it. And I still need to find my last class ... because one of them requires me having to miss since there's no money in the budget for daycare. I don't know why they offered the class twice, and both at horrible times for anyone with a child.

They are getting there - trust me. I must be missing the "orange" meaning... Must be something like... Come to MN - it's... well... it's cold.

D~

Orange... as in UT Vols .... as in their colors .... Yup, orange is everywhere. People get so worked up over UT, they paint their cars and houses orange/white and force their pets to dress in UT gear. My car is a rare oddity, as I don't have any UT paraphernalia on it (by choice). And if anyone is heard saying that they aren't Vol fans, they get beaten up on the playground. It's NUTS! My dad is a diehard Vol fan, and when DS5 told him that he was a Gator fan, my dad went crazy! He told him he wasn't getting any gifts this year and lots of other stuff. Poor DS cried, because he didn't know better.

 

[DMGeurts]

I checked later, and the machine was being refurbed.

Figures... They always refurb the best stuff when your're there. Next time, check the refurb schedule - maybe you can plan your registration around that.

I got all but one, and it wouldn't let me register -- said I didn't meet the prerequisites ... even though I do. I have an A+ in the prereq class. Going to walk in today and tell them to add it. And I still need to find my last class ... because one of them requires me having to miss since there's no money in the budget for daycare. I don't know why they offered the class twice, and both at horrible times for anyone with a child.

Doesn't make sense... Hopefully you are able to figure it out.

Orange... as in UT Vols .... as in their colors .... Yup, orange is everywhere. People get so worked up over UT, they paint their cars and houses orange/white and force their pets to dress in UT gear. My car is a rare oddity, as I don't have any UT paraphernalia on it (by choice). And if anyone is heard saying that they aren't Vol fans, they get beaten up on the playground. It's NUTS! My dad is a diehard Vol fan, and when DS5 told him that he was a Gator fan, my dad went crazy! He told him he wasn't getting any gifts this year and lots of other stuff. Poor DS cried, because he didn't know better.

Ahhh... I get it. Thanks for explaining.

D~

 

[oopsiDAISY]

Yes D~ folks "bleed orange" in this state. I live 3 hrs away from Knoxville and it is still bad. Don't even get me started on the home game day traffic on I-40 ...orange everywhere: flags, bumperstickers, pompons in the windows, and on and on it goes... BTW have you heard the song Rockytop? One of the most annoying songs EVER! Even the high school bands in this area play it at every ball game... OY!

 

[DMGeurts]

Yes D~ folks "bleed orange" in this state. I live 3 hrs away from Knoxville and it is still bad. Don't even get me started on the home game day traffic on I-40 ...orange everywhere: flags, bumperstickers, pompons in the windows, and on and on it goes... BTW have you heard the song Rockytop? One of the most annoying songs EVER! Even the high school bands in this area play it at every ball game... OY!

LOL... I've heard of Rockytop - but I certainly couldn't recite it or hum the tune... I am sure it's stuck in your brain all day today just by the mere mention of it... Sorry 'bout that.

D~

 

[Lidian]

Figures... They always refurb the best stuff when your're there. Next time, check the refurb schedule - maybe you can plan your registration around that.

Doesn't make sense... Hopefully you are able to figure it out.

Ahhh... I get it. Thanks for explaining.

D~

D~, it's like this.... I don't get to be very flexible with dates, so no point in checking the refurb schedule. You just book what you can and pray for the best.

I did get that one class scheduled. I went into the office all "matter-of-fact like" and said it wouldn't let me register the class, I meet the prereqs and the lady verified and added me to the class list. (I verified on my phone after I walked out.) I prayed she wouldn't see I was a Freshman and tell me to wait and see an advisor. She didn't notice, or didn't care -- either way, she never said anything and handled it herself. I told her she was my hero of the day.

Yes D~ folks "bleed orange" in this state. I live 3 hrs away from Knoxville and it is still bad. Don't even get me started on the home game day traffic on I-40 ...orange everywhere: flags, bumperstickers, pompons in the windows, and on and on it goes... BTW have you heard the song Rockytop? One of the most annoying songs EVER! Even the high school bands in this area play it at every ball game... OY!

Oh yes, the term "bleed orange". My dad hasn't said it in awhile, so I had forgotten about it. But he used to tell stories at Granny's house about if he got a cut, the blood would be orange and stuff.

LOL... I've heard of Rockytop - but I certainly couldn't recite it or hum the tune... I am sure it's stuck in your brain all day today just by the mere mention of it... Sorry 'bout that.

D~

We have a local radio station ... I'm not sure who recorded the song (probably UTK cheerleaders and maybe some music majors) ... and its a remix of Rocky Top. It has the original lyrics, but here and there it has the cheerleaders yelling stuff like "GO UT! GO VOLS!" And then it has excerpts from TV/radio bits of actual games -- the announcer calling out an amazing touchdown and stuff. And of course several "UT WINS!" and stuff commentaries. They have a song for each of the major competitors ... so they're all customized to say something like "Beat Bama/the Gators/etc". It's awful. It's the only radio station I listen to, so when they play it, I turn the radio off.

And around here, it's orange all the time ... not just game weekends.

 

[Lidian]

Yes, this is Disney and trip related.

Today was a busy day for me ...

Let me recap ... Registration for Spring classes opened on Monday. My advisor is at a different campus, so I have to use the "walk-in" advisor at my local campus. I used the Lines app to calculate my wait based on TSM. The wait was much better for TSM. I did not get registered for classes yesterday (since he only accepts registration students on Tuesday and Friday this week). It is mandatory for Freshmen to register with an advisor. I broke the rules and registered myself for most of my classes. I had an issue with one class. Today, I asked the receptionist if there was anyone available who could get me registered for the class and explained my situation (leaving out that I was a Freshman). She checked my information, put me in the class, and allowed me to verify it is showing on my end.

After both of my classes, I went to see my English professor (she's amazing and I adore her - I also have her friended on Facebook). I purchased some Girl Scout chocolates from her daughter (my daughter wasn't selling them) and discussed my paper with her (due Friday). She reviewed it and helped me understand what I could change to make it better. She's amazing, I tell ya!

After I left the school, I stopped by Hobby Lobby. I picked up a few odds and ends and then walked down to mom's house (she literally lives that close). I showed her my purchases and off we went to play with them.

But first ... a trial run.

My mom showed me how to use her sewing machine. (She has a Brother sewing machine, it's pretty basic -- older, but not a classic.) I stitched a few straight lines on some scrap fabric.

Then she showed me how to lay out a pattern on fabric and how to read the pattern. She had a ton of scrap fabric ... so we went to town.

Today ... I made my first hipster bag.

It is only one type of fabric (no contrasting), it has an outside pocket, no closure.

It's Care Bears ... yes ... but I made it! Mom guided me through the process, but there was very little "hands on" she did on this (yes, there was some, but little). I learned how to do a straight stitch, a back stitch, how to turn the fabric to make corners, how to correct a mistake, etc. She was an amazing instructor! I never had an interest in sewing ... I never bothered to ask to learn, and I don't recall her offering. I grew up with a sewing machine in the house ... mom would make costumes and clothes for us. We had custom MC Hammer outfits (because all the cool kids had them), she made my costumes for choir and plays, and she made lots and lots of dresses for all four of us girls (yes, I have three sisters, no brothers). Why learn to sew all of a sudden?

Well ... that wench D~ had absolutely nothing to do with it. Nope, she didn't have a thing in the world to do with motivating me to learn. And yes, I am a beginner, and yes, it will take practice for me to get better and to handle more complicated items ... but for my first attempt at anything, I did really dadgum good!! I'm very proud of myself, and amazed at how well I did.

After I finished my practice bag (which I will probably gift to a neice), I broke out the good fabric and made DD9 a Minnie hipster for her to use in March. Mom wanted to add an inside pocket this time.... so off we went. The only thing mom did was the inside pocket, but I did the rest myself. (Well, she helped with pinning the fabrics together for stitching, but I did all the work with the machine myself.)

Minnie is the main fabric, but I went with red Mickey ear fabric for the pockets and lining. It has an outside pocket, a long inside pocket, and a velcro closure.

A purse isn't complete unless you have a matching wallet ... so I asked mom if she had a pattern for one. She did not. But she said she didn't need one. She started cutting away at material and I started pinning them together.

Mickey wallets!

One is closed, and one is open. The lining is the red Mickey ear fabric.

Now ... yes, I have a long way to go to get my stitching to look great ... but for my first day using a sewing machine, zomgididanawesomejobkthx! I've not found my perfect fabric for me, yet, but Minnie is for DD, and I'll keep a wallet and gift the others.

So recap of my day.
School.
Shopping.
Learned to sew.
Made two hipster purses.
Made four wallets (only two are pictured).
Cursed D~ a lot for getting me addicted and for the expense it will now be to purchase my own machine and more fabric ... because I have to make curtains and accent pillows, and TONS of purses.

Mom will eventually show me how to sew on a zipper and other neat stuff. She said she can't do buttons well ... but I don't like buttons anyway. I prefer velcro or snaps.

D~ .... I love you and dislike you all at the same time.

And that is how I spent my day. I should do my homework now.

 

[DMGeurts]

Yes, this is Disney and trip related.

Today was a busy day for me ...

Let me recap ... Registration for Spring classes opened on Monday. My advisor is at a different campus, so I have to use the "walk-in" advisor at my local campus. I used the Lines app to calculate my wait based on TSM. The wait was much better for TSM. I did not get registered for classes yesterday (since he only accepts registration students on Tuesday and Friday this week). It is mandatory for Freshmen to register with an advisor. I broke the rules and registered myself for most of my classes. I had an issue with one class. Today, I asked the receptionist if there was anyone available who could get me registered for the class and explained my situation (leaving out that I was a Freshman). She checked my information, put me in the class, and allowed me to verify it is showing on my end.

After both of my classes, I went to see my English professor (she's amazing and I adore her - I also have her friended on Facebook). I purchased some Girl Scout chocolates from her daughter (my daughter wasn't selling them) and discussed my paper with her (due Friday). She reviewed it and helped me understand what I could change to make it better. She's amazing, I tell ya!

After I left the school, I stopped by Hobby Lobby. I picked up a few odds and ends and then walked down to mom's house (she literally lives that close). I showed her my purchases and off we went to play with them.

But first ... a trial run.

My mom showed me how to use her sewing machine. (She has a Brother sewing machine, it's pretty basic -- older, but not a classic.) I stitched a few straight lines on some scrap fabric.

Then she showed me how to lay out a pattern on fabric and how to read the pattern. She had a ton of scrap fabric ... so we went to town.

Today ... I made my first hipster bag.

It is only one type of fabric (no contrasting), it has an outside pocket, no closure.

It's Care Bears ... yes ... but I made it! Mom guided me through the process, but there was very little "hands on" she did on this (yes, there was some, but little). I learned how to do a straight stitch, a back stitch, how to turn the fabric to make corners, how to correct a mistake, etc. She was an amazing instructor! I never had an interest in sewing ... I never bothered to ask to learn, and I don't recall her offering. I grew up with a sewing machine in the house ... mom would make costumes and clothes for us. We had custom MC Hammer outfits (because all the cool kids had them), she made my costumes for choir and plays, and she made lots and lots of dresses for all four of us girls (yes, I have three sisters, no brothers). Why learn to sew all of a sudden?

Well ... that wench D~ had absolutely nothing to do with it. Nope, she didn't have a thing in the world to do with motivating me to learn. And yes, I am a beginner, and yes, it will take practice for me to get better and to handle more complicated items ... but for my first attempt at anything, I did really dadgum good!! I'm very proud of myself, and amazed at how well I did.

After I finished my practice bag (which I will probably gift to a neice), I broke out the good fabric and made DD9 a Minnie hipster for her to use in March. Mom wanted to add an inside pocket this time.... so off we went. The only thing mom did was the inside pocket, but I did the rest myself. (Well, she helped with pinning the fabrics together for stitching, but I did all the work with the machine myself.)

Minnie is the main fabric, but I went with red Mickey ear fabric for the pockets and lining. It has an outside pocket, a long inside pocket, and a velcro closure.

A purse isn't complete unless you have a matching wallet ... so I asked mom if she had a pattern for one. She did not. But she said she didn't need one. She started cutting away at material and I started pinning them together.

Mickey wallets!

One is closed, and one is open. The lining is the red Mickey ear fabric.

Now ... yes, I have a long way to go to get my stitching to look great ... but for my first day using a sewing machine, zomgididanawesomejobkthx! I've not found my perfect fabric for me, yet, but Minnie is for DD, and I'll keep a wallet and gift the others.

So recap of my day.
School.
Shopping.
Learned to sew.
Made two hipster purses.
Made four wallets (only two are pictured).
Cursed D~ a lot for getting me addicted and for the expense it will now be to purchase my own machine and more fabric ... because I have to make curtains and accent pillows, and TONS of purses.

Mom will eventually show me how to sew on a zipper and other neat stuff. She said she can't do buttons well ... but I don't like buttons anyway. I prefer velcro or snaps.

D~ .... I love you and dislike you all at the same time.

And that is how I spent my day. I should do my homework now.

LIDDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I NEVER KNEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You and your mom did a wonderful job... These purses look waaaay better than any of my first projects ever did! I am so excited for you...

I love the fabrics you chose, and I just love the little wallet - how awesome!

I highly recommend Carla C's patterns from www.youcanmakethis.com - she is awesome, and her patterns are awesome!

I hate to tell you this... but it's impossible to hate me for long. I know this, because it happens frequently. You'll wake up in the morning and love me again - ask my dh - he'll tell you.

D~

 

[Lidian]

LIDDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I NEVER KNEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I told you I had a surprise coming .... Guess you didn't believe me.

You and your mom did a wonderful job... These purses look waaaay better than any of my first projects ever did! I am so excited for you...

Thank you! She was an amazing teacher! I'm proud of what I made and would proudly tote it, claim it, and will have DD sporting the Minnie in no time! (Probably after Christmas.) We had a lot of fun together sewing today. It was a great bonding experience!

I love the fabrics you chose, and I just love the little wallet - how awesome!

Thank you! I was a bit disappointed with the small selection of Disney fabrics at Hobby Lobby. But when I saw the three fabrics I got (Mickey, Minnie, and red Mickey ears), I had to get them!

Eventually, I want to learn how to make better wallets ... but for learning to sew and making something simple, I'm so proud of mine! I will be using my Mickey wallet immediately!

I highly recommend Carla C's patterns from www.youcanmakethis.com - she is awesome, and her patterns are awesome!

I passed the link on to mom. Mom says she always bought Simplicity patterns when she was sewing. She said they were ... well ... simple. Thanks for the link!!!

I hate to tell you this... but it's impossible to hate me for long. I know this, because it happens frequently. You'll wake up in the morning and love me again - ask my dh - he'll tell you.

D~

It's a love/hate thing. I love you for turning me on to this whole new world of possibilities ... but girl, this is gonna get expensive! I have to buy a machine, buy fabric and other odds and ends ... it will add up! I'll have a ton of things to show for it ... but it will be a money sink.

 

[cogero]

Yes, this is Disney and trip related.

Today was a busy day for me ...

Let me recap ... Registration for Spring classes opened on Monday. My advisor is at a different campus, so I have to use the "walk-in" advisor at my local campus. I used the Lines app to calculate my wait based on TSM. The wait was much better for TSM. I did not get registered for classes yesterday (since he only accepts registration students on Tuesday and Friday this week). It is mandatory for Freshmen to register with an advisor. I broke the rules and registered myself for most of my classes. I had an issue with one class. Today, I asked the receptionist if there was anyone available who could get me registered for the class and explained my situation (leaving out that I was a Freshman). She checked my information, put me in the class, and allowed me to verify it is showing on my end.

After both of my classes, I went to see my English professor (she's amazing and I adore her - I also have her friended on Facebook). I purchased some Girl Scout chocolates from her daughter (my daughter wasn't selling them) and discussed my paper with her (due Friday). She reviewed it and helped me understand what I could change to make it better. She's amazing, I tell ya!

After I left the school, I stopped by Hobby Lobby. I picked up a few odds and ends and then walked down to mom's house (she literally lives that close). I showed her my purchases and off we went to play with them.

But first ... a trial run.

My mom showed me how to use her sewing machine. (She has a Brother sewing machine, it's pretty basic -- older, but not a classic.) I stitched a few straight lines on some scrap fabric.

Then she showed me how to lay out a pattern on fabric and how to read the pattern. She had a ton of scrap fabric ... so we went to town.

Today ... I made my first hipster bag.

It is only one type of fabric (no contrasting), it has an outside pocket, no closure.

It's Care Bears ... yes ... but I made it! Mom guided me through the process, but there was very little "hands on" she did on this (yes, there was some, but little). I learned how to do a straight stitch, a back stitch, how to turn the fabric to make corners, how to correct a mistake, etc. She was an amazing instructor! I never had an interest in sewing ... I never bothered to ask to learn, and I don't recall her offering. I grew up with a sewing machine in the house ... mom would make costumes and clothes for us. We had custom MC Hammer outfits (because all the cool kids had them), she made my costumes for choir and plays, and she made lots and lots of dresses for all four of us girls (yes, I have three sisters, no brothers). Why learn to sew all of a sudden?

Well ... that wench D~ had absolutely nothing to do with it. Nope, she didn't have a thing in the world to do with motivating me to learn. And yes, I am a beginner, and yes, it will take practice for me to get better and to handle more complicated items ... but for my first attempt at anything, I did really dadgum good!! I'm very proud of myself, and amazed at how well I did.

After I finished my practice bag (which I will probably gift to a neice), I broke out the good fabric and made DD9 a Minnie hipster for her to use in March. Mom wanted to add an inside pocket this time.... so off we went. The only thing mom did was the inside pocket, but I did the rest myself. (Well, she helped with pinning the fabrics together for stitching, but I did all the work with the machine myself.)

Minnie is the main fabric, but I went with red Mickey ear fabric for the pockets and lining. It has an outside pocket, a long inside pocket, and a velcro closure.

A purse isn't complete unless you have a matching wallet ... so I asked mom if she had a pattern for one. She did not. But she said she didn't need one. She started cutting away at material and I started pinning them together.

Mickey wallets!

One is closed, and one is open. The lining is the red Mickey ear fabric.

Now ... yes, I have a long way to go to get my stitching to look great ... but for my first day using a sewing machine, zomgididanawesomejobkthx! I've not found my perfect fabric for me, yet, but Minnie is for DD, and I'll keep a wallet and gift the others.

So recap of my day.
School.
Shopping.
Learned to sew.
Made two hipster purses.
Made four wallets (only two are pictured).
Cursed D~ a lot for getting me addicted and for the expense it will now be to purchase my own machine and more fabric ... because I have to make curtains and accent pillows, and TONS of purses.

Mom will eventually show me how to sew on a zipper and other neat stuff. She said she can't do buttons well ... but I don't like buttons anyway. I prefer velcro or snaps.

D~ .... I love you and dislike you all at the same time.

And that is how I spent my day. I should do my homework now.

You did a fabulous job. I have never made a bag before. Guess I am going to have to try that one day.

 

[Lidian]

You did a fabulous job. I have never made a bag before. Guess I am going to have to try that one day.

Thank you!

Now it's your turn.

 

[kittylady1972]

Oh how CUTE...I love the bags and the wallets too! I'm a very, very amateur seamstress. I own a sewing machine but I am not good with it at all. So far, I've only done pillows, curtains (ok vallances really), hemmed some pants for myself and the kids and last year I did some Jawa Costumes for the boys...but even with the patterns they were not that good. I would love to make the little wallets though!

 

[oopsiDAISY]

So you had to go and do it didn't you Liddy? You are going to end up making your own duck butt bag and I am going to be sooooo jeolous! My mom is a GREAT seamstress as well, and has a sewing machine....but alas she lives 7 hours away. Maybe when she visits at Christmas I will have to show her pictures and see if she can duplicate for me and the girls since we won't have time for any kind of tutorial, and because her car is too full of Christmas gifts when she comes to be able to fit her machine.


I MUST have a hipster when we have our Dismeet one way or the other....all the cool kids will have them!

 

[Lidian]

Oh how CUTE...I love the bags and the wallets too! I'm a very, very amateur seamstress. I own a sewing machine but I am not good with it at all. So far, I've only done pillows, curtains (ok vallances really), hemmed some pants for myself and the kids and last year I did some Jawa Costumes for the boys...but even with the patterns they were not that good. I would love to make the little wallets though!

Thank you!

I bet your costumes looked amazing! (We are always hardest on ourselves.)

The wallets were super easy. You just have to decide you size for them (we were generous to add for lots of bulk because we're pack rats), then just sew the outside and the lining together... press ... then sew all around to sew the sides. It's not the best, and no where near as good as D's wallets, but for being a literal newbie, I'm so proud of mine!!!

So you had to go and do it didn't you Liddy? You are going to end up making your own duck butt bag and I am going to be sooooo jeolous! My mom is a GREAT seamstress as well, and has a sewing machine....but alas she lives 7 hours away. Maybe when she visits at Christmas I will have to show her pictures and see if she can duplicate for me and the girls since we won't have time for any kind of tutorial, and because her car is too full of Christmas gifts when she comes to be able to fit her machine.


I MUST have a hipster when we have our Dismeet one way or the other....all the cool kids will have them!

It will be a very long time before I get "duck butt bag" worthy. So you'll see me rocking something like what I made for DD -- but probably in the Mickey (wallet) material.

I'm thankful that my mom literally lives in walking distance ... so it's nice to be able to visit her as often as I want ... and she's handy for teaching me something like this. OH!!! Another positive note ... mom is super excited about teaching me to sew, it's sort of renewed her love for sewing. She's now talking about her upcoming projects and such that she wants to work on.

Anyway ... I sadly won't have a duck-butt bag ... but I'll at least be rocking a cute hipster like DD's.

I'm sorry your mommy lives so far away. (If we move to FL after I graduate, then I'll have the same problem.) Maybe you can catch a deal somewhere and watch some tutorials on youtube and learn? Or you can just come over here and learn with my mommy! (I can share!)

 

[oopsiDAISY]

Thank you!
I'm sorry your mommy lives so far away. (If we move to FL after I graduate, then I'll have the same problem.) Maybe you can catch a deal somewhere and watch some tutorials on youtube and learn? Or you can just come over here and learn with my mommy! (I can share!)

Ahhh, you are so sweet! Well, I went the cheap and easy route...found some hipsters on clearance at Walmart on my lunch break and bought three of them for myself and DD's- $9 each! They aren't Disney themed or unique and special at all, but they will serve the purpose just fine!

 

[DMGeurts]

Thank you!

I bet your costumes looked amazing! (We are always hardest on ourselves.)

The wallets were super easy. You just have to decide you size for them (we were generous to add for lots of bulk because we're pack rats), then just sew the outside and the lining together... press ... then sew all around to sew the sides. It's not the best, and no where near as good as D's wallets, but for being a literal newbie, I'm so proud of mine!!!



It will be a very long time before I get "duck butt bag" worthy. So you'll see me rocking something like what I made for DD -- but probably in the Mickey (wallet) material.

I'm thankful that my mom literally lives in walking distance ... so it's nice to be able to visit her as often as I want ... and she's handy for teaching me something like this. OH!!! Another positive note ... mom is super excited about teaching me to sew, it's sort of renewed her love for sewing. She's now talking about her upcoming projects and such that she wants to work on.

Anyway ... I sadly won't have a duck-butt bag ... but I'll at least be rocking a cute hipster like DD's.

I'm sorry your mommy lives so far away. (If we move to FL after I graduate, then I'll have the same problem.) Maybe you can catch a deal somewhere and watch some tutorials on youtube and learn? Or you can just come over here and learn with my mommy! (I can share!)

I think it's waaay awesome that you're learning to sew... and even more awesome that your mom is teaching you.

Ahhh, you are so sweet! Well, I went the cheap and easy route...found some hipsters on clearance at Walmart on my lunch break and bought three of them for myself and DD's- $9 each! They aren't Disney themed or unique and special at all, but they will serve the purpose just fine!

Glad you found some cheap hipster bags for your trip... I think hipsters are the best because it doesn't feel like you are carrying anything at all.

D~

 

[Lidian]

Ahhh, you are so sweet! Well, I went the cheap and easy route...found some hipsters on clearance at Walmart on my lunch break and bought three of them for myself and DD's- $9 each! They aren't Disney themed or unique and special at all, but they will serve the purpose just fine!

Yay for clearance!

I think it's waaay awesome that you're learning to sew... and even more awesome that your mom is teaching you.

Thanks!

Glad you found some cheap hipster bags for your trip... I think hipsters are the best because it doesn't feel like you are carrying anything at all.

D~

I agree!

And I am in the process of making MY hipster bag now. The fabric is cut, hoping to put it all together this weekend. Also, I stopped by the Goodwill stores today to check for sewing machines. They had two at one store ... one was a Kenmore (I think it said Kenmore, but I do recall it having Sears on the machine), and the other was a Universal -- similar, if not identical, to one I saw on someone's PTR ... so many sewing machine pictures posted, I can't keep track! And now I've gone back to where I think it was ... I can't find anyone with a Universal. Anyway ... they both stated they "work" and were $20 ... but I wouldn't know how to begin to clean and restore them ... or rewire them. The Kenmore/Sears one had a manual and a box with things in it, the Universal was just the machine. They both had cases. I passed on them ...

I am going to buy my own machine ... but probably an inexpensive one from Target. Granted, I did see that Walmart has a Brother LE PRW machine for Black Friday for $50. But ... I'd kinda like my own NOW. (FYI, Walmart has their BF ad posted on their website. I have not checked to see if other stores are displaying their ads or not.)

Mom says Brother is a good quality machine, and one of her favorite brands. It's what her past several machines were (she had one stolen).

I don't know ... I can't decide.

But if I get a machine, I'll have to buy a sewing kit and other supplies ... but it would be nice to have my own and not borrow mom's. Especially since she's going to start making Raggedy Ann/Andy dolls again. (I hope I get one for my birthday!!)

Ladies ... your thoughts on holding out and trying to score a BF Brother machine for $50 or seeking one out sooner? I'd love to hear what you would do if you were in my shoes.

 

[DMGeurts]

Yay for clearance!



Thanks!



I agree!

And I am in the process of making MY hipster bag now. The fabric is cut, hoping to put it all together this weekend. Also, I stopped by the Goodwill stores today to check for sewing machines. They had two at one store ... one was a Kenmore (I think it said Kenmore, but I do recall it having Sears on the machine), and the other was a Universal -- similar, if not identical, to one I saw on someone's PTR ... so many sewing machine pictures posted, I can't keep track! And now I've gone back to where I think it was ... I can't find anyone with a Universal. Anyway ... they both stated they "work" and were $20 ... but I wouldn't know how to begin to clean and restore them ... or rewire them. The Kenmore/Sears one had a manual and a box with things in it, the Universal was just the machine. They both had cases. I passed on them ...

I am going to buy my own machine ... but probably an inexpensive one from Target. Granted, I did see that Walmart has a Brother LE PRW machine for Black Friday for $50. But ... I'd kinda like my own NOW. (FYI, Walmart has their BF ad posted on their website. I have not checked to see if other stores are displaying their ads or not.)

Mom says Brother is a good quality machine, and one of her favorite brands. It's what her past several machines were (she had one stolen).

I don't know ... I can't decide.

But if I get a machine, I'll have to buy a sewing kit and other supplies ... but it would be nice to have my own and not borrow mom's. Especially since she's going to start making Raggedy Ann/Andy dolls again. (I hope I get one for my birthday!!)

Ladies ... your thoughts on holding out and trying to score a BF Brother machine for $50 or seeking one out sooner? I'd love to hear what you would do if you were in my shoes.

Liddy... I am so excited that you have your bag all cut out.

You're probably not going to like what I have to say about the machines, but I will say it anyways, and let you make the decision... OK?

First of all... IF you are going to buy a machine from WM/Target... make sure you read the reviews of the exact machine you are planning to get. As a whole, WM and Target sell the cheapest made machines out there - even if the brands they sell are "reputible and good" brands... they are still made with components that are cheaper. Make sense?

Now that I have said that... Buying a machine from either of those places is a good place to start... When you first start sewing, all you really need is a basic machine - you just really want to learn how to do the basic stuff well - so it's my opinion that you don't want to spend a lot of $$ on a machine. Just know that when you buy these machines, some of the basic things you want it to do - it just won't do (for instance, sewinging through 4 or more layers of fabric... and think about how often you go through that many layers)... So, you are probably going to want to upgrade with in a few months. Which is fine - you'll probably be able to recoup most of your $$ on Craigslist.

OK... I haven't sounded snotty yet, have I? Good...

I will say, that you can buy a used machine on Craigslist, but it doesn't have to be vintage. A used machine - that works - is going to need a cleaning... so you just open the top with a screw driver, take your sewing machine lint brush to it, oil it where it says to oil it (you alwayas assume it's never been oiled before)... put the top back on it. Do the same thing for the bobbin area, and away you go. The older the machine is, that you buy, the more work you are going to have to do to it - usually. So, if you find a $20 machine on Craigslist that was manufactured in 1985, and it works when you go look at it (bring your mom)... then you will probably get your $20 out of it in a matter of months, and when you outgrow it - you can sell it on Craigslist for $20.

You know that I am pro-vintage machine, because, personally, I think there is nothing better out there. But we all had to start somewhere... Here's the first machine I purchased off of Craigslist - it was supposed to be a "parts machine" - it was identical to my other Brother (except the other one is blue where this one is red)... but when I got it home and cleaned it up - it ran better than the other Brother, so I just used it. Then it died (it's having electrical issues) about 9 months after I purchased it for $25 on Craigslist... I got my $$ out of it... I ran it hard!

So, personally, I would make Craigslist your new best friend... Stalk it. Find a used machine - but not necessarily vintage... USE the crap out of it. Set a limit of $35, and really learn to sew. If you find, 6 months down the road - you don't love it like you wanted to... You are only out the $35. However, if you love it... Then you can branch out... Find that new machine (or vintage machine) that you want, that does what you want it to.

I also want to add a couple of things... they may not seem important now... but someday, they might.

For a serger, if you are ever thinking of learning to use one... They intimidated me more than any machine could... Um... 4 tensions... Save yourself the trouble... buy a new one. I purchased mine off of Amazon... I believe it's a Brother 434d - thousands of awesome reviews. I thought I needed lessons at a shop - and sergers are so expensive there - I learned everything I needed on Youtube. I don't use my serger as often as I thought I would... but I am super happy to have it, because there are times I've needed it.

Don't get sucked into the combo machine... If you ever buy an embroidery0machine (the Brother PE770 comes highly recommended) - I don't own one, but this guy is at the top of my list. But don't buy a combo embroidery/sewing machine, so many people do, because they figure that they can have one machine to do both jobs. When really, that is super hard. It takes a while to hoop everything up, and if you had a second machine, you could be sewing away while you are waiting for the machine to embroider away. If it's all one machine... You are wiating for it to stich out. Does that make sense. You are just better off buying two seperate machines - besides that fact that it's way cheaper to do that anyways. Usually dual duty mcahines are very expensive... and that's how the stores "get ya"... you buy the dual duty - expecting it to save you $$ in machines, then you end up going back to buy another machine, because of the time you are wasting. Oh, and Heather Sue's designs are the BEST on the internet.

OK... So, I am here for ya... If you ever want to text me for questions while you are out machine shopping - or call me... I'd be happy to PM you my #.

D~