I enjoy sewing even if I've only sewed 2 pairs of pajama pants and 1 pillowcase dress since high school.  I'm learning and trying new things when I have time.  I recently completed a really cute little pillowcase dress for my daughter.  I found the pattern (I was not brave enough to tackle the applique) at Wal-Mart for 97 cents!!  It turned out a little bit too big (although it's better than being too small), the seams didn't quite match up and I had a hard time making neat ends at the seams for the rick rack (decorative white bands at the bottom).  I certainly learned a lot and can hopefully do a better job the second time around.  At first glance, though, I don't think you notice any of those things.  I also have a great book that has helped me understand some of the instructions and terminology in the patterns when I have questions.

Upon further searching online, I found this link for instructions to make a similar dress - no pattern needed.  

I've started my next project for my other daughter which involves a zipper and some other things I'm clueless about, but so far so good.  The zipper is not yet in, so my sentiments may change.  I'll post a picture when that's done.  
Here's the pillowcase dress:

My Mom gave me a sewing machine for Christmas last year because I had been wanting one.  The problem is that the last time I sewed anything was in junior high.  But, I really want to be able to sew.  It would be nice to be able to hem my own pants instead of paying $10 or $15 (I'm 5'4" which means petites are too short and regulars are too long), make halloween costumes and other simple things for my kids.  I have always wanted to make a quilt, and so I need to know how to sew.

Last spring, my job, family and house kept me so busy I didn't even have time to think about learning to use my machine.  Then summer came and the kids were home and we left on vacation for over a month.  Finally, the kids started school, I quit my job, and so I've had more time.  Between the re-model and the sick baby, it's taken me a couple months, but I finally took a class to learn my sewing machine.  My prior sewing experience came back, a little, and so it's not like learning about the machine was TOTALLY brand new.  

That was last week.  I bought a few things, but had to leave in a hurry to get the kids.  I intended to go back the next day, but I was dealing with kitchen guys and I did some tutoring.  So, I still need to go back and buy the simple pattern the teacher suggested as well as a few additional supplies.  I'm really looking forward to it!

I bought this book from amazon and it seems to be a really good introduction to supplies and all things sewing.  I hope to take a class sometime when I have time, but plan to practice on my own in the mean time. 


Some people might think sewing is a skill for old ladies and 1950's homemakers, but learning more skills means having more power as a woman.  The more a girl can do for herself, the better off she is.  And, it saves some $$ in the long run - especially in the clothing/fabric repair department.  And, maybe I can make some of those cute (but very simple looking) boutique dresses for my girls for less than the crazy $50 pricetag!  First things first, though, I need a little practice!