Feather Your Nest

Each month we have a new challenge so for August we decided that it should be "Feather Your Nest" month. I realize that it's already halfway through but, better late than never right? Anyway, this challenge is dedicated to the little household things that surround us everyday like pillows, pictures, blankets, etc.

To kick things off, I chose to cover some ugly floor pillows that my husband is not ready to relinquish. I once again dipped into my stash of scraps and muslin and plunged for the first time into the applique arena. I love birds and have a minor obsession with monograms and the bird pillow below is the result. While the hubs really likes the pillow, he thought it was slightly, uhh, girlie so I had to change direction and make a Texas man themed pillow (go Longhorns!).

For pillows that you sit on, I like how the covers turned out. They are bright, used up pesky scraps and I was able to practice appliqueing. All in all, a very fun project!

July = Dress Month

We decided to have a sewing challenge each month in addition to our Christmas present challenge. July is kicking everything off with dresses. It's hot outside so what better to do than create attire that keeps us cooler! I'm a little early, but I just finished the Maryy dress from BurdaStyle.com and you can get the free pattern here.

This is an easy, breezy summer dress with a gathered bust and flowy, full skirt. I thought that the unbelted skirt made me look like a giant, white, puffball so I tightened everything up with a brown belt (which doesn't really match but you get the idea). I do like the pattern but next time I would use a fabric that drapes softly and I would add invisible pockets and belt loops. I used cotton fabric with some stretch to make this dress and I successfully installed my first invisible zipper!