Knitting, and the Importance of No-Agenda Hobbies

My mom's birthday was yesterday (happy birthday! You're amazing!). I was super excited about her present, not the least because I'm usually pretty lame in the birthday-present department. But this year, I knitted her this gray and green color blocked cowl.

I used a regular knit stitch on super skinny (I'm thinking size 4?) needles. I used wool yarn, and while I hate how long it takes to make progress on skinny needles, I love the super thick knit it provides. So tight and warm! In the end, I thought the switch from gray to green was too abrupt, so I added little black x's as accents to define the change of color more. I'm really happy with how this turned out!

Here's the thing: I'm not a good knitter. I only make cowls and scarves with a basic knit stitch. I tend to make it up as I go along, and my projects are mostly based on what's in my stash. But I derive so much joy from just knitting...and not caring.

Everything that I do has a point, has a purpose, has an agenda. Skating's my love, but I'm working on it becoming a career so it's not really just 'for fun'. Yoga is fun but it's also for skating and I try to meet goals with it every week. Writing here, my main not-athletic hobby, is a great release, but I also try to take writing seriously, so I set expectations for myself. But knitting? Just. For. Fun.

I like that I get to do something with my hands while watching TV, or talking to my mom. I like that it's pretty inexpensive (especially when I commit to using stash stuff). I like that if I mess up horribly, I can unravel it and start again. I LOVE that it's a hobby easily learned in pieces; just start with a knit stitch, and the rest comes as you get more curious.

I'm a huge believer in doing what you love and reaching goals and making your life (work included!) something you enjoy doing. But I'm also starting to believe in hobbies that are just that...hobbies. With no expectations, no goals, no guilt, no stress. Just happy distractions from our true passions and priorities.

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I'm just going to be honest and say that I'm already planning stuff for Christmas. This cooler weather gets to me.

From a thrifty standpoint, I'm hoping to knit a lot for Christmas this year, with a focus on using up stash-yarn. I'm excited to share more of what I make on the blog in the coming months! Here's my new project: a stripey scarf in pinks and green (the same green from the cowl, actually!).

Happy Tuesday! xoxo

PS-Just wanted to let you know that I'm working in my Etsy shop, The Broke Skater, again. It's mostly vintage sewing patterns, dresses, hats and accesories from my full-immersion vintage phase. Everything is priced to move and I would be so grateful if you checked it out! More stuff scheduled to go up this week.

The Monsters Inside Me Top

This week, my mum pointed out to me that when I'm stressed, I'm an absolute bear to be around. And she's right. When I get stressed out, I get really whiny. I complain about everything, get mad when people agree how horrible the situation is, and get mad when people try to be comforting. I stomp and slam things and my voice goes up three octaves. And I can't be alone. I follow people from room to room so I can let them share in my misery.

And this is why you should all be very thankful that you only know me through my blog.

Anyway, I should probably go back to the beginning and tell you why I was so stressed. In the 4-H world, it's Fashion Revue time! The yearly sewing event is genuinely a great time to learn skills and create something fun for your wardrobe, and it's always looked forward to. BUT. Seeing that in 4-H we 'make the best better', and that usually translates into doing something more challenging every year, the actual execution can be frazzling.

And now, we come to the top.

I was about to fall over, btw, I'm not just randomly clutching the wall...

Originally, I was going to make a dress. A cute, cotton wiggle dress that was light and polished and perfect for summer. Given my nit-picky idealism, however, I simply couldn't find an acceptable shift dress pattern. So, I happily bought a full skirted dress pattern, that also came with a peplum top version, and decided to use the bodice and then draft a pencil skirt to go with it. Simple!

Well, on Tuesday (because, let's face it: I didn't start seriously sewing this until Monday), I connected bodice to skirt and inserted the zipper and had Mum zip it up. Then, I trotted off to the mirror to admire my work. Mom quietly sat there, allowing me to live in delusion for a few more seconds.

It was horrible.

It didn't fit. At all. The back was too big, and the front darts were the most unflattering things ever. The zipper was sort-of-ish okay, but not great, and it bunched across my middle back all weird. Obviously, something had to change.

After crying, eating chocolate, bemoaning my existence, and then video chatting with Dia, I decided to scrap the dress and switch to the peplum top. After a while two minutes, I convinced myself that the top would be more versatile anyway, that it would go together in a snap, and I would look incredible. Everything was right with the world.

Basically, this brings me back to the thinking that I like the idea of sewing a lot more than I like actual sewing. Beyond that, though, is this weird combination of traits I seem to posess: I'm idealistic when making plans (as in I don't consider silly things like skill level), and while I won't be happy with something unless it's perfect, I very seldom stick with something until it's perfect. Not everything's like that, but sewing is, and therefore I dig my own grave every single year.

So next time I go on a pattern-pinning spree, or post a list of sewing ideas, stop me. Scream at me. Lock me up. Or at the very least, remind me of last year. Heaven knows that that was a nightmare and a half.

Through all of that, though. I still really love my top. It's cute and peppy and bright, all things I've considered lacking in my wardrobe (anyone else notice that I usually dress like a mourning accountant?!). I love the lining and the peplum, and can't wait to layer it with cardigans and blazers and pair it with pencil skirts and shorts. The only thing I need to change is the strap length (bit too loose...), but that's an easy fix and then I would DARE to call this top perfect. Or, at least perfectly wearable. Which is all I need.

Plus, sewing with Dia and then going through judging together was amazing. It felt like we were back in those crazy two years where we did everything together and our lives consisted of nothing but 4-H. :) Love you, sister dearest! Heaven knows this wouldn't have happened without you!

PS-while I named this top the 'monsters inside me top' because of the inner villainous Gillian that leaps out during times of stressful sewing, it also reminds of Monsters Inc. Because it's blue. That's pretty much the only similarity, but still.

The top: Burda Young 7054, mix of views B and C. 100% Cotton. Just as a quick note, I added my own lining, and HIGHLY recommend it. Also, the side bust darts needed some major re-working to fit me, as did the back. Just something to think about. :)

Also wearing: cardiagn / / jc penny's, belt / / jc penny's (came with another dress), pencil skirt / / thrifted, heels / / thrifted, headband / / fair, necklace / / heirloom.

Previously worn: skirt: #1, #2.

Creating A 4-H Memory Book

Well, fair season (and therefore the start of a new 4-H year) is just around the corner! Why not use this time to get organized?

It seems that 4-H and paper go hand and hand. Between judging sheets, recognition letters, awards, and announcements, things pile up pretty quick. But you can't just get rid of the stuff (or at least sentimentalists like me can't :p), sooo, what's a girl who despises clutter and is just a tad OCD to do??

Solution: Make a 4-H Memory Book.

A 4-H Memory Book is basically just a compilation of everything you've ever done in 4-H. It can house photos, project records, newspaper clippings...whatever tells your story! They're easy to create, and can be anything from elaborate scrapbooks to a simple binder like mine. I love them because they're a little less rigid than 4-H Record Books, making paper storage easier (always a plus, right?!).

I've had the book above since my first year in 4-H, way back in 2006. It's great for not just memories, but also for reference when I'm creating 4-H resumes or filling out award applications. But since it's just too stuffed now and I've had to create I new book, I took the opportunity to take some pictures to share! Below you'll find my simple steps for creating one of your own!

1.) Gather all the stuff. For some reason, I can never create memory books as I 'go along'. Instead, I usually just shove all of my old papers in a folder and forget about them for a couple of months. So, search the house, find all the scraps, and settle down somewhere with lots of floor space!

2.) Give your binder some personality! If you buy a big enough binder, these things will last you for years. So liven yours up with some 4-H spirit! I like to use my binders to show off my 4-H bumper stickers, and memento stickers from national trips. 

3.) Sort by event. Everything Fashion Revue in one pile, and resumes in another. Throw out the trash. When you're done sorting, organize each pile in chronological order, and then stick them in the binder in chronological order. TIP: staple ribbons to the judging sheets. It cuts down clutter, keeps them flat, and adds visual interest!!

4.) Make a cover page. Since these are organized by 4-H year, I make a cover page to section things off. On it, include the dates and a list of all 4-H events you participated in. This is also a great place to add a fun photo!

5.) Stow un-hole-punchable things in the pockets. Like name tags, Georgia peanuts, and water chesnuts. :)

So there you have it! An easy, clutter-controlling way to keep all those 4-H mementos. :) What with the new 4-H year starting up, this is a great time to get organized! And don't forget, you can usually exhibit these at the fair!

Thanks for reading! :)

The Green Satin Prom Dress

Well, I finally got the photos loaded onto my laptop! So after all the promises over the last month, I now have something to actual show you. Let's cut right the chase, here it is!

Blurriness. :P

This dress was the definition of a love/hate project. When I first bought the pattern last year, I was totally in love with it. I had plans of making it for 2012 4-H Fashion Revue, but I procrastinated and ended up making   this dress instead. When FR time came around this year, I promptly bought fabric...and then procrastinated for two months. So, this dress was basically the culmination of a two week sewing marathon! Blegh. Will I ever learn? :P

I do like how this dress sits below my shoulder blades....

I was a little nervous starting this project. It's the largest (as in most fabric) dress I've ever created, it was my first time working with slippery material, and I was using a Vintage Vogue pattern. The people I know who've actually worked with them didn't like the fit, as it's not necessarily meant for wearing over modern underthings. So a big yay for historical accuracy, but a bit disappointing for those of us more interested in simply channeling a vintage look. :)

When it actually came time to put the dress together, I did run into some difficulties. Most of them came from all the gathering (seriously. Pleats are so much better). Gathering the bodice so it was flattering was easier said than done. Attaching the skirt to the bodice was the real challenge, though. Would you believe that there were TWO MORE PANELS MEANT TO BE IN THAT SKIRT??!! Not kidding! There was a huge front panel, two side panels, and a back panel. I literally took out half of the skirt, because there was now way I could ever gather all that fabric to fit in the bodice. But hey, I have so much leftover fabric now that I can make a dress for my little cousin. :)

oooh la la! Pink!

I did go ahead and make a slip. So glad I did! The dress hangs so much nicer with the added poof. I didn't send the slip through judging, it was just a slap-together-so-that-this-looks-nice project. I would love to remake one just to have a nicer version, but if I do I'd be making it in crinoline and not tulle...tulle is itchy. But let's move on to the summary, shall we?

Pattern: Vintage Vogue V2962 (view A), and this tutorial from Sugardale Clothing for the slip.
Fabric: Nine yards of green crepe back satin for the dress, plus eight yards of green satin for the lining. Also four yards of pink tulle for the slip.
Notions: Eleven fabric-covered buttons, eighteen yards of pink ribbon (for the slip), several hooks and eyes.
Total cost to make: I am roughly estimating $75-$80 on this one. Which isn't that bad, considering a store bought one would probably be about that. I need to be good and keep receipts next time!
Hours: At least 25. Not more than 30, though. This includes really, really late nights at my friend's house of crazed Disney-song-singing-while-sewing.
Previous Posts: You can read my getting started post here.
New techniques/difficulties: Fabric covered buttons, understitching, slippery fabric, as well as a new pattern company were all new to me. Difficulties were the aforementioned gathering of the skirt, as well as the fit of the bodice. Oh! And putting the placket in was annoying, and took some time with a seam ripper.
Where to wear it?: It was intended for prom....but prom was last night and last minute I changed dresses. I'd been feeling a bit iffy with this dress as of late, so I was more confident with a different dress. But after some fittings I'm hoping to wear it to NH 4-H Teen Conference semi-formal in June. Plus, this was my entry for FR this year, and I moved up to State's level with it!
Make again?: Ummm.....probably not, honestly. I don't think I would make another formal dress with the same pattern, though I still love the style. That being said, this construction had enough fit issues that I'm not sure I would want another dress like this in my closet.
Overall Thoughts: asldkfjkjaokfjdkl. But seriously, my thoughts are all muddled about this dress. There was unfortunately a lot of stress about whether or not this would fit, would it be flattering, etc., during construction. Now that it's together I think it looks better than I originally thought it would, but I'm still not totally happy with it. That being said, I'm very happy I made this. It was a great experience, and if there's one thing sewing can teach you, it's to be humble and be prepared to make mistakes. Though this dress might not be perfect, hopefully my next project featuring slippery fabric and a difficult pattern will be a bit easier.

Thanks so much for reading! I'm by no means a sewing genius like some folks I know, but I did enjoy showing you this. :) Here's one more picture...

Rockability pose!! Note: Also wearing black peep-toe heels from a discount department store. 

Alright, I lied. Here's another one!

Me and the lovely Emily! I love her dress...and it's wool! That girl is classy. :)

Thanks for reading! :)

Adventures in Creating the Green Satin Prom Dress

Yes, I've been a bad little blogger.....it seems every time I set my mind to do all these posts, be creative and of course very witty, I just end up in a blogging rut. :) I have had this blog for about 8 months now, but still struggle with the actual writing. I really admire the bloggers who post tutorials, recipes, link parties, outfits, all with gorgeous photos; but putting that in action on my blog is a totally different story! Unfortunately, my life is too busy to commit to a regular posting schedule, and camera issues always affect my outfit photos! But through all the frustration of not being one of *those* blogs, I've realized what kind of blog I can be. I've discovered that posts that focus more on writing, whether it be book reviews, movie suggestions, or general musings, are the way to go. It's been a long time in making this decision, but it's one that I know will be the best for me!

Believe it or not, that's not what I intended this post to be about! My friend, Deanna and I, recently took a trip together to Joann's and had way too much fun! I've been scheming for awhile about this year's prom dress, and this year I'm going for a very vintage look (not like I didn't last year....(:) 

I'm going to be using V2962, by Vintage Vogue. I actually bought this pattern last year, with the intention of making it for 4H Fashion Revue. I ran out of time, however, and ended up saving this pattern for later. I feel that this dress will not only be fun to sew, but be perfect for wearing to Prom AND submitting for 4H Fashion Revue 2013! 

This is the first time I'm going to be working with a fancier fabric, and the first time I'm using a Vintage Vogue pattern! I'm very excited, but also a little worried; I've heard mixed thoughts on their pattern fit/sizing/instructions. So wish me luck!

I've bought 9 yards of satin fabric, in two slightly different shades of dark green, for the lining and main fabric (the color is rather similar to this). 

I may start cutting fabric tonight or tomorrow, and am so excited to get started! Keep your eyes out, as I hope to be posting about the dress at different stages during the making!

Thanks for reading!

Your Thoughts? Do you have any sewing projects planned, or in the making? Have you ever used a Vintage Vogue pattern? What were your thoughts about the pattern? Do you often sew more formal dresses, or casual go-to pieces?