Swap-O-Rama-Rama, baby!

I love this event. It's the reason I got out my mom's ancient Elna sewing machine last year and actually sewed something, without a pattern. It's the reason I've got fun "new" clothes to wear. And the reason I no longer fear sewing. I didn't have my camera, so I don't have any pics to share, but you can go to www.swaporamarama.org for more information about the swap, and to get on their mailing list. I found a short jean skirt that I made longer by adding a strip of plaid fabric (off of another skirt) to the bottom, and found a few comfy, worn shirts to wear in the studio. More, too. Just big fun. Okay, time to get in the studio, it's getting late.

Think Outside the Closet

I'm thanking the folks at HGTV's show "That's Clever" for NOT having any more slots left (I waited to apply, wasn't sure I wanted to...then I did, and they were interested but had just filled their slots.) It would have been fun, but crazy with all else that's going on. This way I can go to the Maker Faire in San Mateo (www.makerfaire.com) this weekend. Mostly I want to head to Swap-O-Rama-Rama (www.swaporamarama.org). These are held all over the country by Wendy Tremayne, and this one is part of the Maker Faire. I went last year and got all fired up about sewing, and recycling my clothes, and dressing funkier and was reminded to "think outside the closet"... what got me so energized was the idea of sewing without a pattern. I never realized this was a problem for me, but it was so freeing to just cut that jacket open and hey, don't measure it! Just start cutting! That's it! Rip that sleeve off! Let us silkscreen on your pant leg! Fearless. Loved it. Going back next weekend.