A coat, a bag and a dress

Every so often I like to go back through my work book and check off projects. I have a few that I haven't finished but most have been completed. I designed a romper for Mina last summer that probably won't ever be realized, it's a little "young" looking. I feel okay with that, most of my designs are eventually realized. 

For Christmas this year we drew names among the grandkids. Magnus drew Graham's name. I talked to Hil about a gift and we decided a sweater coat would be a good gift. 

We talked about the design and I put pen to paper and got to work. I used thrifted sweaters as the coat fabric and flannel as the lining. 

I am so happy with the results! I love how the color blocking makes the design pop. 

The little buttons on the sleeve tabs are from my random stash. I purchased the toggles especially for this coat. 

I feel like this is my most successful coat. I learned so many things with previous coats and I poured all that knowledge into this coat. 

I recently made my first duffle bag. I have made simple totes and messenger bags in the past but nothing like this. It was a fun project and it really made me think about the process. 

I discussed the design with my brother's friend and he bought the materials. 

The lining was kind of tricky because there was a zippered pouch inside the bag.  It was a fair amount of work but it was a really great opportunity to try something new. 

My parents gained 4 grandchildren this year and I was lucky enough to make outfits for all of them. Kate's blessing dress was my most recent project. I used the same cotton sateen as the previous outfits as well as some pretty beaded trim. Jordan and Lindsey both wanted a simple dress with a fuller skirt and a detail at the waist. 

I suggested the addition of grow tucks near the skirt hem. I think they look so nice and they have the added benefit of giving the skirt some weight so it hangs beautifully. 

I used fold over elastic for the headband and made a bow out of leftover fabric from the dress. Lindsey picked out some really pretty buttons for the back of the dress. I kind of wish we had added some to the front!

Upcoming projects include...

Coats for the kids. Mina has been wearing her coats from last year and Magnus has been wearing warm layers. If I don't make each kid a coat, I will at least make one for Magnus. 

Oh Christmas stockings. I'm committed to do it, it will happen by next Christmas!