Sunday, November 30, 2008

Thanksgiving for Two

As an ER nurse, DF was scheduled to work on Thursday. They had a big potluck at work, and I was invited to a Thanksgiving feast, but I still felt like doing something for us in recognition of the holiday. Both of us had the day off yesterday, so I roasted a turkey breast following the same recipe as last year.

I also cooked some brown rice that I made into a pilaf by stirring in plumped dried cranberries, lemon zest, chopped pistachios and cashews once the rice was done. Not really a recipe per se, but delicious anyway.

I had plans to have a salad, but we didn't get to that. Too busy eating roasted veggies out of the roasting pan and picking meat off the bird! We are very casual diners here at Casa Flan.

The end of the meal featured Zesty Cranberry Cake, which came from The Cake Mix Doctor's first book:



OK, I'm going to make a shameless plug for Anne Byrn, the Cake Mix Doctor, whose recipe this is. I have all three of her cake books, and everything I've made from them has been delicious! The use of cake mix may offend purists, but not me. If it's good, I don't care if it's pure scratch or not. The website and newsletter are also good. Check her out! And buy her books! (I have no affiliation except for being a happy customer)

It's an interesting recipe--jellied cranberry sauce from the can is a major ingredient, and there's no oil added.



I won't make any claims that it's low calorie, but it isn't as sugary and over the top as a lot of holiday baked goods. I made mine in loaf pans, but it's lovely baked in a Bundt pan with the glaze dribbled over the top.


The Cake Mix Doctor's Zesty Cranberry Cake

1 can (16 oz.) jellied cranberry sauce
1 package white cake mix
1/2 cup orange juice, fresh or from the carton
1 Tbsp. orange zest (optional, but a nice addition)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
Extra orange juice if needed.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease and flour pan(s).

Reserve 1/4 cup of the cranberry sauce and set aside for the glaze. Place remaining sauce, cake mix, juice, zest, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Blend together and pour batter into pan(s), smoothing the top with a rubber spatula. Place in oven.

Bake unil light brown on top and springs back when lightly pressed with your finger, 30-35 minutes. Remove pan(s) from oven and place on rack to cool for 20 minutes. Remove from pan(s) to cool completely, 20 minutes more.

Meanwhile, make the glaze. Place remaining cranberry sauce and the confectoner's sugar in a food processor and blend until well combined and smooth. Thin out with a little extra orange juice if needed. (the original recipe has you mix the glaze with a fork, but I could never get it smooth enough without the food processor).

Spoon glaze over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Simplicity 9505, View A Nightgown

The inspiration for this one came from The Pile, even though the fabric didn't. I was originally going to make this project from the bacon and egg flannel; however, that fabric really wanted to be pj pants instead. Then I remembered the stripe flannel in the sewing room closet, and decided it would work well for a tunic-inspired nightgown.


I've made Simplicity 9505 before, in a different incarnation. View A is the current project, the blue tunic on the top row of the illustration and also what the girl with the ponytail is wearing:





I cut the tissue as I often do, size Small for the shoulders and armscyes then switching to Medium for the body. The tissue's measurements indicated a Small would work throughout, but I like to test first. I can always go back and resew the smaller size later, not so easy to do the reverse!


Cutting the fabric out was a challenge--I sure can pick 'em! I barely had enough. The pattern calls for 2-1/4 yards, which was supposedly what I had. But, that was the amount I bought. It's been prewashed a couple of times, and you know how flannel shrinks. And it's also an unbalanced stripe. But somehow, I made it work by cutting each sleeve from a single layer, and also by flipping the second sleeve the opposite direction from the first one. I know, this is a major no-no with a napped fabric, but it was a matter of do it or give up the project. Whatever. I'm the only one I have to please.


Here's the finished nightgown:




I think it came out pretty well and I'll definitely make this view again. I did end up keeping the Medium sizing through the body. You have to have sufficient ease to wear a nightgown comfortably, and Small would have been a bit too close fitting.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Pillowcases

One of my regular sewing projects is pillowcases. This is because my cats decided that my bed pillows are their favorite place to lounge, as Ghost demonstrates in this photo. So I started making extra pillowcases that they could sleep and shed on. I remove them when it's my time to use the bed.

This is another sewing project that's simple and provides almost instant gratification. Since my bedroom is decorated in an Asian style, I make mine from cottons with a similar theme. I often use quilting cottons, but lightweight home dec fabric or a sheet could be used just as well.

I mentioned sheets because it's a good way to take advantage of white sales. How many times have you wanted to buy a set but there aren't any pillowcases left? Just pick up an extra flat sheet, and that problem's solved.

They also make great gifts. One of my friends makes sets of pillowcases that her son takes to the many birthday parties he's invited to. The other kids like them, especially when the fabric is customized to the recipient's interests and color preferences or features a popular cartoon character.

These instructions are based on the queen sized pillows I have on my bed, but you can customize these to whatever size you want. Start with a pillowcase you already have or use a standard chart to determine the finished dimensions.

In my case, I want the finished pillowcases to be 30" long















and 20 1/4" wide. This is a set that I completed a while ago from quilting cotton.
















Therefore, the fabric needs be cut into a rectangle, with the width equal to 2 times the finished width plus 2 seam allowances. The length will be equal to the finished length plus the seam allowance plus the hem allowance.

Here's the arithmetic:

Width = (2 x 20.25") + (2 x 0.5") = 41.5"

Length = 30" + 0.5" + 2" = 32.5"

Yes, the width is the larger measurement. Trust me on this, there's folding involved.

I typically use 1/2" seam allowances. Because the serged seam is 3/8" and the knife trims off 1/8", this is the simplest and least wasteful way for me. But you can use whatever seam allowance works best for you. Although this is a serger project for me, you can also make pillowcases with only a sewing machine. Remember that you'll need to finish the raw edges of your seams and the hem to prevent ravelling. For the seams, a zag zag or overcast stitch would work. For the hem, you can just fold under the raw edge before machine stitching it.


The 2" hem allowance is somewhat arbitrary. I think I initially measured it off a purchased pillowcase, then fudged a bit for a fabric layout. But 2" is an easy number to measure and remember, so that's what I do.


For my examples in the following pictures, I'm using a toile from The Pile. It's a directional print, and I want the design to be face up when the pillows are propped against the headboard instead of sideways. Thus, I'll lay out the fabric so that 41.5" is measured along the lengthwise grain and 32.5" will be measured along the cross grain. Here's one of the pieces cut out:





Yes, you can go the other way. It depends on the effect you want and how much fabric you have on hand. If you want the pattern to be face up when the pillows are on the bed, as I do, you need to have at least 2 1/3 yards for a set of queen pillows. If you want to have the pattern run the length of the pillow, you'll need a bit less than 2 yards.


OK, back to layout and cutting. I actually rip the fabric if possible. I feel that it's more accurate than scissor cutting on projects like this, and the fabric will be on the straight of grain.


Now, to sewing. Serge the rectangle along one of its longer sides. This will form your hem later.




Then, fold the fabric right sides together--your rectangle is now 20 3/4" wide and 32 3/8" long. Serge across and down the raw edges of the rectangle (2 passes through the serger).




Press up the hem and topstitch.





I use a template for this kind of pressing whenever possible. This is a technique I learned from The Sewing Workshop.


Turn right side out, and you're done.





Repeat with the other rectangle. You can get fancy with this, making a contrasting hem, piping, machine embroidery, buttonholes, etc., etc. These are just the basics--mine are cat fur protectors, after all.


Pleasant Dreams!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Second off the Pile


OK, another one from the pile, except in a different format than originally planned. This was gonna be a nightgown, but the fabric told me "NO." So pj pants were the result. I've made this pattern multiple times, so there really isn't anything new to say.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Another Road Trip to Santa Fe




I haven't been out of town in a long, long time and was really feeling the need to get out of town. That, plus the car I bought about a month ago. Oops, I didn't blog about that, did I? At any rate, I got a like-new used 2006 BMW 330. It only had 12,500 miles on it. I don't understand why people buy such a nice car and don't drive it, but anyway, their loss was my gain. Time to test it on the highway, and the nearest destination is Santa Fe. I took this picture at the La Bajada rest stop and the mountains on the horizon are the Sangre de Cristo.


My goal in Santa Fe was a favorite museum, the Museum of International Folk Art. I first discovered it several years ago after our ASG chapter hosted a workshop with Lois Erickson. The next day, we brought her to Santa Fe and watched her soak up inspiration amongst the exhibits. Anyway, it's had a soft spot in my heart ever since.





And, one of the main exhibits this trip was..."Needles and Pins: Textiles and Tools." In addition to many interesting folk garments, the gallery also focused on the techniques used to make fabric, lace, etc. I confess, I was bad. I didn't realize that photography wasn't allowed, so I took several pictures of the exhibit. No flash, so hopefully, no harm done.


This jacket was my favorite. It wasn't the fanciest or most amazing, but I just found it interesting. It looks contemporary but it's not. It consists of 3 layers, 2 with sleeves, and the top without. So you could wear it a variety of ways. Here in New Mexico, where the temperatures can vary tremendously over the course of a day, this is such a great concept. The piece is Chinese, I'm not sure how old, but definitely pre-revolution:





This piece is Czech, and was featured in a display of lace and lace tools:





And now, some tools. This cabinet is a sewing chest from Asia that was brought all the way to Santa Fe during pioneer days:





A little blurry, but all the sewing notions were made of ivory. I could just imagine the original owner living somewhere Back East, sewing in her parlor, then living out here in the wilds on the New Mexico Territory in much more raw conditions. She must have cherished it, considering that it's still in such good condition.


More stuff. This cabinet held mostly scissors and darning tools. My favorites are the turquoise glass darning egg and the darling little green pig tape measure on the bottom row:





This case contained a variety of what I think are needle cases and sewing kits:





One of the neatest things about the museum is that it's located in an area called "Museum Hill." The next museum over is the Museum of Indian Art and Culture. I was a bit done with culture by that point, so I didn't tour it yesterday. However, this magnificent sculpture was out front, so I had to share:





It portrays an Apache dancer in mid dance. Just a beautiful piece. I'll have to go back. One of the main exhibits there is "Native Couture." Much amazing jewelry, for sure.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

First Project from the Pile: Table Runner

All of that reorganizing put me in the mood to sew. I started it late in the evening--it was an easy project and took maybe an hour?

I used a remnant of upholstery fabric I picked up at the ASG Trading Post several months ago. Gorgeous stuff--it's a tapestry that also has chenille threads. Lots of texture. Basically, all I did was fold it, straighten the two long sides with a ruler and rotary cutter, then round off the corners. No measuring, all improv. Below, you can see my high tech corner template! That little pile of scraps was all that was left over.



I made the runner 2 layers thick. I really didn't have to, but I wanted to use it all, plus I wanted to test my still-new Bernina on something thick and heavy.

I found some olive green faux suede binding while excavating the sewing room and decided to use it. I had originally planned to use slate blue panne velvet binding, but the green was on the table and looked perfect next to the tapestry. I sewed the binding with a 3/8" seam, wrapped it to the back side, and then stitched-in-the-ditch to attach the back edge. Because the faux suede is a knit, I decided not to fold the binding edge under on the back side. I just trimmed the excess close to the stitching. It's not the tidiest finish, but it worked fine. Here's a close-up view:


The runner was a bit lumpy after being sewn, so I steamed the piece well to get it to lie flat. And here it is on the dining room table:




A couple of technicalities: the Bernina performed like a champ! No struggles, no hesitation. I used a Smetz Jeans Sharp and a 3.5 stitch length.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Downsizing and Reorganization, Part 2

I had the day off from work today and the weather was iffy this morning, so I worked on reorganizing all the fabric I pulled out Friday night. The discards are bagged and ready for giving away:



Then, I cleared out the sewing room closet and discovered that the Sterilite 20 quart containers fit perfectly into the space I had made. All the loose fabric in the picture below will eventually wind up in containers. I had several on hand but still need more.


The picture below shows some of the fabrics that I'm planning to sew soon.


From the top of the pile:

  • The stuff in the plastic bag is rolls of Pendleton wool binding (more on that later).
  • Cream and red toile will become pillow case covers for the master bedroom. DONE
  • Green bacon and egg print is flannel that will become a nightgown. DONE
  • Upholstery fabric remnant that will become a table runner DONE
  • Royal blue solid is rayon doubleknit for the Michelle Obama dress.
  • Taupe plaid wool, skirt.
  • Tan and brown plaid wool, skirt.
  • Black faux suede, skirt.
  • Cream and blue windowpane plaid wool, skirt.
  • Gray and black mottled looking fabric is actually an animal print sweater knit that will become a twin set.
  • Beige and plum fabrics below are coordinating knits. Another twin set.
  • Gold and black mottled fabric is stretch velvet that I'll use for a holiday top.
  • Blue geometric print is Pendleton blanket yardage. I've had it for years but it's bulky because it's a heavy weight wool. Time to become something! The binding will trim the edges of the coat, this is a typical finish for Southwestern blanket coats. Any leftover fabric will become accessories for DF's future Man Cave, which will have a Southwestern theme. Hopefully, there'll be enough for a throw, but if not, then accent pillows.

I know it seems pretty ambitious, and it is, but several of the items I've planned will be made from TNT patterns. I've made several of the pillow case covers, I have a pencil skirt and narrow A-line patterns for the skirts, and the twin set pattern is an old Kwik Sew. The velvet top is an untried Simplicity pattern (3536) that looks pretty simple, the coat is likely to be the Sewing Workshop's Soho Coat, and the nightgown is the tunic view from a Simplicity pattern (9505) I've already made.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Downsizing and Reorganizing

DF is finally talking seriously about moving in with me. He's finally figured out that now isn't the right time to be selling my house. It's going to be a bit of a process though, as he'll gradually be moving in over the next 6 months, the term of his current lease. This is what happens when you're both older and have been on your own for years and years. We have to ease into changes.

As a result, I need to start making room for his things. While DF is a minimalist, he does have some stuff! Phase I is clearing out the closet and bureau in the guest bedroom so he'll have someplace to keep his clothes. As you all know, the guest room can easily become a haven for all kinds of "extra" storage and mine is no exception!! Among other things, my guest room is the auxiliary fabric spot. OMG!! I have so much fabric!! I mean, it's not like I didn't know all the yardage was in there, but this exercise has really forced me to face it.

So, last night, with the assistance of a glass of wine, I started pulling fabrics. So far, this is the discard pile:


I included fabrics from the main fabric room (I mean sewing room) as well, so I was able to create some extra space in the Wall of Sterilite and bookcase. However, this is what's left to be put away:


Looks like I'll need to get cracking on my sewing! Of course, that could lead to overflow in my clothes closets, but that's not such a bad thing... is it?

Honestly, I suspect that sewing will only be a part of it. I've been meaning for months to start auctioning on eBay, some items will go to the ASG Trading Post, Friends of the Library always seems to appreciate old books, and maybe I'll even do some giveaways here.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Wheee! We Have a New Prez!

This is major, and it's for the good. That's all I have to say.

A SWAP? That would be a No.


Don't get me wrong. I like the concept of a SWAP, I really do. But seriously, I don't think they work so well for me.

I like the idea of making a coordinated group, but I tried a SWAP a couple of years ago and got nowhere fast before finally throwing in the towel. Things in my life are pretty much the same now, with the addition of DF in my life in a major way.

So I'll look forward to seeing what all of you plan and make for your SWAPs while I sit back and just attempt to sew on a regular basis. I'm sure you'll have many lovely garments to ooohh and aahhh over!

Saturday, November 1, 2008

The Review is Done...

At last! I finished it up yesterday afternoon, and now I can veg without guilt. I'm still relaxing with Food Network and HGTV while pondering what the next sewing project is going to be. Another month, another garment.

I'm thinking about finally trying the Sewing Workshop Now shirt. I cut the pattern out a year ago when I was at the Getaway. Maybe it's time to do something with it? From all the pictures on the Sewing Workshop's website, this looks like a nice basic top that could be made over and over.

Of course, the Michelle Obama dress is still waiting patiently to be made. I've cut out the pattern pieces, but I'll need to make some fitting adjustments before proceeding to the actual garment.

On a tangent, DF's sister visited last month for a nursing conference, and I took her and her coworkers on the Sandia Peak tram. She took this picture of me at the base area after we all came back down.