Chervron Happy

For blog, a photo by Zanalee on Flickr.

So I took a leap a week ago and ordered some yummy rainbow chevron fabric from etsy which arrived a few days ago, all fresh and sweetly wrapped like a piece of candy from Riley Blake.

The only way I can approach projects that I am largely intimidated of is by not taking myself too seriously and not worrying about being perfect I started with the very simple pattern for an A-line Blythe dress from Pucchi Collective. I've been studying that thing on and off for months, maybe even a year. Now I was ready to dive in.

I just really needed to understand the pattern before I could start. It's a simple pattern yes, but so much of it for me is a leap of faith in actual execution. But it's making sense to me finally.

The first one I made yesterday and put it on Hamsa to model. I had to hand sew it because my cute but crappy little yellow sewing machine from Urban Outfitters has been mysteriously malfunctioning.

The second one I made last night, is modeled by Hendrix. I like the silhouette much better on that one. It flares out just a bit and is not so straight up and down. This is what I wanted. Fortunately I had gotten the machine to work a little by then.

I think one of the greatest challenges for me has been figuring out how to get the sleeves just right. Those little tabs you have to turn in don't really stay down very well. Also there's not really a good explanation on what to do to close up the back either but I think I can manage to improvise there. I'm just going to pace myself and learn slowly. Making stuff is just therapeutic to me and when I become obsessed with something I end up learning a lot, particularly where Blythe is concerned. She gives and gives.
: )

Lake Sebago Blythe

Hendrix basking in the peace of Lake Sebago pier

Wow, it's been awhile huh? I had the most relaxing, desperately needed little weekend retreat this past weekend at Lake Sebago Cabins in Harriman State park. It was me, my fiancee and six other friends. In all, three couples. It was just so soothing and restorative, I wish it could have lasted longer. Being back at work sucks to say the least and a couple of my co-workers who were there camping with us can vouch for that.

As for the Blythe world, I haven't that much to report except that I guess I've resigned myself to flickr's new format. I have an account on Ipernity I barely check. I am getting more and more curious about learning how to make dresses for Blythe. Even the simplest patterns kind of mystify me, but I've been chipping away at them on and off for a while now and I'm determined to try and figure it out. So perhaps there will be more on that front soon.

Management of my photography portfolio is what's really taken over the past few weeks before this camping trip. But I'm still plugging away at my ADAD though I've stopped numbering them because it depresses me sometimes to see the days flying by like that.

I hope all your summers have gotten off to a pleasant start and that you've been able to stop the whirlwind of time and routine to slow down and appreciate the things and people you love.
Until later....