Allyson Hill

Oil be happy!

I thank my son Micah for this wallet.  While shopping at Target the other day I almost became weak and cheated on myself...I almost bought a manufactured wallet.  This one right here.  The rigid frame hinge clutch with clasp closure in orange PVC.  I love those wallets.  Micah was so appalled that I would even think to buy it and basically forced me to put it back on the shelf.  How could I not be persuaded by his argument:  Mom, don't buy that!  Why would you buy that when you can make one that is so much better?  He was right of course, not that I'm claiming to make a better wallet than Target, but it is so much more enjoyable to have one that is handmade.  Even better, are the memories of his sweet words. 
The wallet is made of oilcloth from Oilcloth Addict (and she has a blog with project ideas) which was intended for another project, but oh well.  These prints are so irresistible together - Hibiscus and Walnut Woodgrain.  I think I will make all my wallets out of oilcloth for the rest of my life, seriously, forever and ever.
 

Studio Reform Part 1

 

BEFORE & AFTER

 

 

BEFORE & AFTER

 

This weekend I spent some time reforming my studio...been putting this off too long.  Good ol' ticking and upholstery tacks, pleated with my ruffler foot.  The air feels cleaner in here already.  More reforming to come...sooner not later this time!

Shorts!

 

Wow, it took me 8 years to make these shorts.  OK, not really.  It's just that this is the first article of clothing that I've made for my son (not counting costumes because I've made a lot of those).  He needs a couple more pairs of shorts, so I figured I'd give it a try.  They're cute for sure, though I can't help but feel that they look out of place paired with a manufactured t-shirt.  Sounds like perfect inspiration for his next article of clothing...

This is a great pattern though, I traced them from his favorite pair of Tae-Kwon-Do shorts.  I think they would make great summer PJs so I plan to make more without pockets and with thinner fabric.  For the waistband, I just used black elastic and kept it drawstring style so we can adjust it later.  Now let's see if I have to beg him to wear them every week, that's the real test... 

 

Birds!

 

Around here, the birds start chirping at around 4:30 in the morning.  I love it.  It's still dark out, but they are sensing the rising sun and are chattering away in their nests, getting a head start on the new day.  Man I wish I could be like that!  Too often, I wake up to hear them and smile, then roll over for a little more sleep.  So my summer goal is to enjoy these mornings and get up to feather my nest right along with those chipper birds.  Well, as often as I can - let's be realistic - I must enjoy these summer nights too!

Bird Wreath by The Little Prints

   

Handstitched Tablecloth from Ruby Sue Vintage  

 

As soon as I saw this bread bag by Soule Mama I knew I had to make one for myself.  So charming!  I made it with a square bottom to fit my bread machine bread.  I have found that it needs a "breadbox" of some sort to help keep it moist, but I love the fact that the bread is not just sitting in a plastic bag!