The long nights of winter and the cold temperatures make staying in, finding a good movie to watch and sewing away on projects so enjoyable. Oh, sure, I still get out for some exercise, to work and see friends, and to ride my ponies whenever possible. But with it dark at 5 pm, and cold even earlier, I find myself picking up my sewing project whenever possible.
As a result, what seemed like an impossible amount of hand sewing is quickly turning into a recognizable garment. I'm following an Alabama Chanin method of reverse applique, where I stitch the design into two layers of fabric and then the outside of the designs get cut away, leaving the stitching, the outline of the stencil, and a little fabric one the edge of each element.
I have one side completely stitched and cut out, and I like to hold it up to imagine the finished smock. Which I sometimes worry will look too homespun. Especially now that I am working part-time in an upscale boutique. I'll put those worries aside, though, and wear it where I feel it is appropriate. And enjoy all the time I put into each stitch.
Since I'm approaching the end of this project I used my time off today (and the frigid temperatures outside) to lay out and cut out two new tops. Then I rediscovered an unfinished poncho/wrap from last winter that I can work on and complete.
It's time to move on to phase 2 of Project 333 as well - figuring out what clothing I'll be wearing Jan - March. I have a start on it as I have purchased two pairs of jeans (made in L.A.), and a little grey jacket. There are plenty of pieces from the first phase that will make it into the cut for the next three months but a few things are just too lightweight for this time of year, and I find myself hankering for some new colors.
The blog has been quiet but I haven't - I just have to find the time to get it all down here. Plus, I managed to misplace my camera cable and haven't been able to download any photos since Thanksgiving. I searched everywhere and finally gave in and ordered a replacement. By the time it arrives I'll have months of photos to sort through and blog with.
It's so easy to post Instagram photos to Facebook and Twitter, but I don't want to lose the blog. The blog gives me a chance to really explore topics and it requires some time - time to edit the photos, time to think about what to say, and time to sit down in one place doing one thing. Slowing down... isn't that a good thing?
Same here for me, I find hand stitching in the long winter evenings a lovely way to pass time. I look forward to continuing to follow your musings in 2013!
Posted by: Serena Dennis | January 01, 2013 at 06:09 PM
Likewise, Serena. I love your adventures in colors and stitches. So nice to have a friend in hand-sewing.
Posted by: Magpie | January 02, 2013 at 07:45 AM