sewn

jo: we thought we'd show you a few of my favorite sewn items- they look brilliant, you know! i feel so very lucky.  :)
i'm beginning a college yoga class in two weeks- today i got my mat (it's cute, an almost dark lavender!) and my mom whipped up this brilliant bag for me! i love it. the strap is the perfect width and length, the pockets have such potential to hold useful little things... and the fabric has been waiting for its perfect use... and now we've found it! so in love. thanks jane!!
i'm also wearing one of my favorite dresses today. i don't often wear dresses, but i love to wear this one- it's comfy, looks and drapes perfectly, and the color is amazing. i love the high-low twist on a simple skater dress-ish pattern. love. this. dress.

jane:  sewing is a great way to add items to your simple wardrobe in an ethical way.  made in the usa!  :)  i have loved sewing since i was a girl learning on my mom's singer feather weight.  if you don't sew, just know that it is not hard.  i bet you know someone with a sewing machine who would like to share it, and some knowledge, with you.  you also might find a great used machine on craigslist.  i will share some great books and websites for beginners in another post.

this is one of my favorite dresses I've made!  it is april rhodes' riding peplum and party dress pattern.  i used the longest length on a smaller size when cutting.  the fabric is a shot cotton, perfect for this dress.  this pattern comes together easily and i think the results are so cute. 

the yoga bag is amy butler's free pattern, the nigella yoga bag.  it is a simple pattern that turns out beautifully.  It's lined and has pockets all around the bottom.  i added a bit of length at the top of this one and included a drawstring.

making always makes me feel happy.  :)  what do you like to make?

love,
jane + jo