Friday, November 18, 2011

The Steampunk Mini Hat

Simplicity 2525

Pattern Description:  Misses' costumes and hats.  I made the mini top hat. 

Pattern Sizing:  According to the pattern envelope and website:  "Misses' costumes and hat in three sizes s(21"), m(22"), l(23")."  I'm not sure what the three sizes refer to, as the clothing is sized 6-20 and the hats come in two sizes, large and mini, as pictured on the cover above.  

Fabric Used:  Emerald green velvet from a scrap of unknown source, interfaced with fusible hair canvas. 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  I think it actually looks much better.

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes, it's pretty basic.  I went ahead and made separate pattern pieces for the interfacing to exclude the seam allowances.  This reduces excess bulk where it's not needed and makes it easier to sew and turn the circular seams.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  Nothing major.  I just omitted the elastic chin strap since it reminds me too much of a kiddie party hat.  I used a small clip to keep it attached to my hair. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I like that all the notches match up perfectly and the construction went smoothly and quickly, thanks to the 1/4" seam allowances.
                                
Would you sew it again?  I don't know that I'll need another one.  Would you recommend it to others?  Yes, it's fantastic to finish something fast, fun, and fabulous without fussing or fitting!

Conclusion:  For an Ann Taylor girl like me, this is a good pattern for my foray into steampunk.  I wanted something cool to wear to a recent hatted event, and this was perfect.

Monday, November 14, 2011

The MADD Tea Party

This past weekend my husband and I attended a charity event to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving.  It was an Alice in Wonderland themed tea party featuring mad hats.

The spread was delectable.
Silent auction autographed guitar
Silly Wabbit

Monday, November 7, 2011

Woof Walk


This weekend I took my baby girl Molly to Centennial Park in Nashville for a community dog walk.  Woof Walk was organized to raise awareness of the power of pets to improve our lives and health though a more active lifestyle.  The event was sponsored by Mars Pet Products, which sounds like my dream employer, since you can bring your dog with you to work.

The autumn weather was perfect for a walk around the park with other dogs and their people.  There were pet caricaturists on sight and I was privileged to have both of them draw Molly.
Molly in pencil
Molly in Sharpie (I think this one is cuter)
Molly in color (The sweetest dog I've ever known)