Autumn 2010
A La Mode
inspire.create.share
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letter from the editor Dear Reader, I am thrilled to bring to you the first issue of A La Mode Magazine! There is a plethora of information and eye candy all over these pages for you to enjoy. I have teamed up with some wonderful women who have awe inspiring talent and taste. We are all very passionate about what we are doing here and hope to convey that through our pages. This magazine is chalk full of great ideas to help encourage you in all areas of your life. It is my hope that our readers will play an active role in future issues so that we may become an even better community of life crafters. Here is our goal for each issue:
Mission Statement: To inspire others to be creative and initiate greater individuality in all that surrounds them; to share passions, ideas, and talents. We will create a broader awareness of the liberating power in the act of creation. There is joy to be found in using and expanding our talents and abilities. And it can be relevant and fun. No matter your age or circumstance, we wish to share this view and foster a love for creating within others.
Madelyn
Madelyn Okamoto 4
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Editor in Chief
Contributors 04 10 Things We Like 05 15 minutes! 06 Organization: Tips & Tricks 07 Back to Basics 08 Seasonal Recipe 09 How-To 10 Seasonal Pattern 11-15 What Every Woman Should Know 16 Trend Alert 18 Rising Talent 20 Creative Space 22 Pattern Review 23 Inspirational Woman 24-26 Artistic Veteran 27-31 Confession Session 32 Share! 33
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Table of Contents
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featured
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contributors CHELSEA EDWARDS CREATIVE DIRECTOR Chelsea Aspen has been an artist since she was growing into her first pair of hot pink gelly shoes and defines herself as “an art rebel”. She loves being inspired and the best part of her day is working on something she’s passionate about. Some of her favorite things are listening toindie music, going beach longboarding with her boyfriend, exploring nature, eating Yogurtland, looking at magazines and watching The Office. She is currently living in Fullerton, CA and excited to promote her graphic and illustrative art through her new label: Hello Wonderland.
STACEY SARGENT PHOTOGRAPHER Stacey Rae Sargent was born and raised in Highland, UT She is the youngest of 6 kids. She attended Brigham Young University. Stacey has an absolute love of the arts. She has been taking photographs as long as she can remember and loves the aspect that you can always get better. Stacey also enjoys the theater, music and has a real love and addiction for fashion. Stacey has been married for 2 years to her Husband, Chris, and currently lives in Ladera Ranch, CA.
MYLYN WOOD ARTICLE CONTRIBUTOR Since watching her amazing mother as a child she’s always wanted to be the perfect host for a party, the kind of mom who bakes from scratch and a is great seamstress. MyLyn is 24 and married to her genius of a husband, with whom she has a 13 month old son (and one on the way!). She enjoys wearing aprons, Martha Stewart, and reading penguin classics. She’s currently hanging out near old route 66 while finishing school but hopes to be enjoying life near the coast within a year. 6
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10 things
we love 10
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1. Garanteed for a no stick, smooth and longlasting wear. Mary Kay’s Nutrishine Lip Gloss in Bronze Bliss. $14 at marykay.com 2. Flip through these cute and cuddly creations! $14.99 subscription at stampington.com 3. Put some pzazz in your living room with this yellow photo frame, at Target for $5.99 4. Get back into the swing of sewing with the help of this fantastic book. $27.50 by Wendy Mullin 5. Go back to a vintage style with these sweet, delicate chrysanthemum earrings. $10 at ohhellofriend.com 6. Shop green this fall with a cute (and foldable) reusable shopping tote, $1.99 at Khol’s 7. Try some relaxation around your house by putting up one of these posters. $8.00 - $14.95 at the Keep Calm Shop on Etsy.com 8. Stay stylish and warm on autumn nights with Dotty Downpour tights, $9.95 at Anthropologie 9. Bring the aroma of fresh peaches to your shower with Bath & Bloom’s natural handmade soap in Peach Passion. $1.99 at bathandbloom.com 10. Sip on delicious tea or hot cocoa in style this season with this fresh and modern teacup and saucer. $2.99 at Ikea
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15 minutes!
to a better you minutes
minutes And do a little yoga! Health science studies have shown that a little morning stretch increases bloodflow to the brain, loosens muscles for better performance and even releases stress. So next time you have a few minutes, try simple yoga stretches found online at yoga.about.com.
Get beachy waves! Snag Kate Hudson’s chic and simple style in no time at all! 1. make a middle part in your hair 2. use a spray bottle to lightly mist your dried hair. You can even run a waving product through your locks with your fingers. 3. grab your hair in a ponytail and twist while shaping it into a bun at the back of your neck. secure with a clip. 4. leave hair clipped for 1-2 minutes, then remove clip and shake your head to release the waves! Curls Up XXXXXXXX at Target $6
minutes To make a healthy snack! It’s good to eat healthy if you want to stay trim and fit. This recipe takes only a few minutes!
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organization tip & tricks
#1 Store it!
Let’s face it. The morning beauty routine hits the bottom of your To-Do list when you can’t find your lipstick. Try this elegant approach! Keep your makeup organized by putting brushes and eyeliners in clean cups or pots, and compacts on chic, fun trays.
#2 Label it!
The oldest trick in the book just got fun! While hiding clutter away can be helpful, labeling is an easy way to remember what goes where. With the DYMO Personal Label Maker ($29.99; dymo. com), you can customize with unique fonts and styles and even print on magnetic tape for filing drawers!
#3 Pin it!
Organization is easy and makes things run more smoothly when the most important stuff is easily accessible. Try hanging a bulletin or magnet board in the kitchen, entry way or laundry room. It’s the perfect place for school schedules, phone numbers and important need-to-see papers.
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01. Cut out a square piece of fabric. If you would like to line the pocket, cut out a square piece of interfacing as well.
Back to Basics
a refresher course
02. Zigzag stitch across the top of the pocket. Fold over to the wrong side of the fabric. Hold it in place by straight stitching along the sides of the folded piece.
POCKET 101 It’s always nice to go back and refresh yourself on how to sew the basics properly. I know that for me I tend to forget. For those who have never made a pocket before, you will find the Back to the Basics how-to article helpful and informative. Pockets are very versatile and come in different shapes and sizes. They can be functional, or just add extra style. You can add a pocket or two to a blouse or a dress to make it more interesting. Or try one on a bag or a purse. We like to think that there is no limit to what you can do with a fun pocket!
03. Fold over and iron the remaining three sides.
04. Undo the sides you just ironed and turn up the bottom corners until the iron lines meet.
05. Fold over the same three sides and iron in place.
06. Now you have a finished pocket that you can be sewn onto anything you want!
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Recipe
of the season
tried and tested!
This quick and easy pasta is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With simple ingredients and a southern kick it will have your tastebuds jumping with joy! And like all pastas, this makes GREAT leftovers!
Cajun Chicken Pasta 25 min | 10 min prep SERVES 2 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips 4 ounces linguine, cooked al dente 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning 2 tablespoons butter 1-2 cup heavy whipping cream 2 tablespoons chopped tomatoes 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon basil, fresh or dry 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 2 cups frozen corn 1) Place chicken and Cajun seasoning in a bowl and toss to coat. 2) In a large skillet over medium heat, sautĂŠ chicken in butter until chicken is tender, about to 7 minutes. 3) Reduce heat add corn, heavy cream, tomatoes, basil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper and heat through. 4) Pour over hot linguine and toss with Parmesan cheese. *Tip: Add your own favorite ingredients! Like green onion? Chop up a few and toss them in. Or add shrimp for extra flavor. This recipe is VERY versatile and ready for you to make it your own!
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How-To
made by MyLynn
What You’ll Need: A large sheet of scrapbook paper Mod Podge Painters brush Spray glue A page from your child’s favorite story Wooden plaque
step 1:
step 2:
Put wooden plaque face down onto scrapbook paper and trace to cut. If you have a rotary cutter I would recommend it. If your plaque has beveled edges be sure to cut your paper accordingly.
step 3: Crop your picture to the desired area and adhere to plaque, centered.
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Glue your paper to the front of your plaque. Be sure to smooth out all the edges and steady the corners. Spray glue or glue rollers works well.
step 4: Apply Mod Podge with brush over entire front. Let dry 25 minutes then apply another coat. Let dry and display.
Seasonal Pattern our step-by-step instructions and ready-to-cut pattern pieces will have you sewing in no time at all!
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Pattern Instructions What You’ll Need: 1 Yd. Outer Fabric - leather (synthetic or genuine), corduroy, denim, drill, tweed 1 Yd. Lining Fabric –cotton, or something light, but sturdy with little to no stretch 1/8 Yd. Pellon Craft Fuse 808 Magnetic Snap (optional) Matching Thread Scissors Fabric Marker Ruler 10 Rivets (Get a few extras though to practice with, or in case you make a mistake.) Hammer Dart or Rivet Machine 2 Metal Rings Denim/Jeans Sewing Machine Needle
Instructions: 1. Cut out pattern pieces. All of the pieces you will need are in the pattern accept for the Body Pieces. They are just basic rectangles with an exact measurement of 34”x30”. You will need two of these. One from the Outer Fabric and one from the Inner Fabric. 2. Take Interfacing Base Piece and Outer Fabric Base Piece and sew Interfacing to the wrong side of the Base Piece. Then sew the new Base Piece into the center of the Outer Body Piece. 3. With wrong sides together, hem along the long sides of the Outer Body Piece. Then snip the bottom corners, but leave 1/8 inch beyond stitching to keep the strength intact. Then iron flat the seam allowance on the appropriate heat setting. note: If you are using synthetic material, place a piece of cotton fabric between the vinyl and the iron so you don’t melt the fabric. 4. Turn bag inside out, so that the right side of the fabric is showing. Fold up bottom corners and place studs in the three places indicated in the picture through all the layers to hold in place. To insert studs if you are using a dart, poke a hole through the layers and place rivet pieces on either side of the fabric and set on sturdy flat surface. Then hammer it together until it is secure. 5. Take Lining Body Piece and sew pockets onto the right side of the fabric as shown in the picture. Use the pocket how-to on page – to make pockets. The dash lines on the angled pocket indicate where you should straight stitch once the pocket is sewn onto the Lining Base Piece. This will give special compartments for chapstick, pens, etc… 6. Take Lining Body Piece and fold together with right sides facing. Hem along the long sides of the fabric just like you did with the Outer Body Piece. Snip the bottom corners. Iron flat the seam allowance. 7. Now take the Outer Body Piece and the Lining Body Piece and fold the top opening down ¾ inch. The Lining Body Piece should have the wrong side of the fabric facing out and the Outer Body Piece should have the right side of the fabric facing out. Then fold both with the wrong side of the fabric touching. www.stampington.com
8. Place Lining Body Piece inside Outer Body Piece (*if you would like to add a magnetic snap stop here and read * at bottom). You shouldn’t be seeing any raw edges at this point. Now sew the pieces together, matching to tops. Leave 1 ¾ inch opening on both seam sides of the purse. Mark with pins or sewing marker so you know where to start and stop. 9. Now we need to make the strap. Make sure the piece is 3 times the length given in the pattern, plus another 4 inches. On the short edges, fold fabric with wrong sides facing about ½ inch and hem. Then take Lining Strap Piece and Outer Strap Piece and fold edges into the center, lengthwise. Iron flat. If you are using vinyl, or other hard to iron fabric you might want to pin it in place. Place folded sides of Lining Strap Piece and Outer Strap Piece together. Top stitch along edges with a 1/8-1/4 inch seam down the length of the strap. Then stitch over the short sides again to sew both pieces together. 10. Take the Loop Pieces and mark a line down the middle lengthwise with your sewing marker and then fold the edges into the middle line and iron flat. Then bring edges together on the line and iron flat. Top stitch over all edges with a 1/8-1/4 inch thick seam. 11. Place a Loop Piece in the each of the holes left in the purse at the top about 1 inch in. Then put a metal ring on the Loop Pieces and place the other side of the Loop Piece into the hole, about 1 inch. Then stitch over the hole space to secure. 12. Take the strap and insert it into the metal ring and secure with two rivets on each side. 13. You’re Done!!! *Follow instructions on magnetic snap packaging and place at the top, in the middle, of the Lining Body Piece. Make sure to leave enough space to topstitch around the top of the purse without the snap interfering.
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what every
woman
should know
{Fill in the Blank}
I am ________ when it comes to the kitchen. clueless just alright somewhat amazing an expert moderate (your own adjective)
No matter what you think you are in the kitchen, we’ve got some fantastic insight on cooking for you, from Notes on Cooking!
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#181
#17
Embrace the Mundane. Do not bemoan the pedestrian tasks. Find pleasure in peeling a carrot, steaming rice, searing a steak, prepping, cleaning. Your reward is in the work, not around it. Cooking is not about convenience, but the pleasure earned through creation and in giving pleasure to others. Shortcuts are tempting, even necessary from time to time. But if you rely on pre-cut vegetables, pre-marinated meats, and canned sauces, you are not cooking. You are assembling.
Appreciate the benefits of butter. Much of the pleasure of food comes from fats like butter. Fat provides enticing mouth feel and is a vehicle of taste since many of the substances that affect out taste receptors are fat-soluble. Unlike other fats, butter provides additional proteins and dairy solids that enhance and balance flavors, smooth acids, and counter bitterness. There is no replacement for dairy fat; nothing feels quite as creamy or has the same flavor.
#44 Shop seasonally. You can procure nearly anything you want whenever you want it. That does not mean you should. Summer strawberries picked ripe from the bush are ruby red, juicy, supple, and sweet- a far cry from their winterized counterparts that are torched with a heat lamp before their time (not their bitter white centers). Fresh ingredients serve as a vital seasonal clock and humble us to wait until properly enjoyed. www.stampington.com
#94
Use a cold pan for butter. Heat the pan and butter simultaneously. Butter added to a hot pan burns on contact due to its dairy content. The proteins and sugars turn from brown to black and taste bitter instead of sweet. Burnt butter is toxic; throw it out and start again.
#58 One week is enough. After one week in the refrigerator, freshly prepared foods and leftovers should be tossed. Just throw them away. There are noteworthy exceptions to the one-week rule, including sushi, ceviche, and other raw dishes. Consume or toss those within one day. #160 Know the grades of
meat. Prime beef has the best marbling (intramuscular fat) and is generally reserved for restaurants. Choice beef is the highest quality meat available in most grocery stores. Select is acceptable, but not nearly as juicy and tender. Lamb uses the same grades but the criteria and scale differ because lamb fat is external to the muscle, not integrated with it. Pork is not graded this way in the United States since it is generally bred to be very lean, so such designations do not apply.
#95 Use a hot pan for oil. Add oil directly to an already hot pan; in a matter of seconds, it becomes hot enough to cook your food, but not yet hot enough to smoke. When it does smoke, it is toxic; throw it out and start again. #217 Always be
cooking. Hone your craft by doing it. Stop reading. Start cooking.
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Trend Alert!
the beauty of recycling
It seems that clothes get more and more expensive these days, and that doesn’t always mean they come with quality. About a year ago, after recently getting married and having new responsibilities of a house payment, car payments, insurance, etc. etc., I decided I just couldn’t always afford the “expensive clothes” and the trendy shops. I needed to find a way to still be stylish and unique, while keeping as much money in the bank as I could. A couple of weeks later, my mother and I were digging through my late Nana’s closets, fighting the dust from our eyes, and reminiscing over memories of how stylish she was, even in her old age. While casually sifting through the hangers, I spotted the most glorious leopard fur coat, and it was love at first sight. It was actually my mom’s in high school, which my Nana had kept all these years. I knew I needed to inherit this gem. The inner lining needed a little love, but nothing that a beginner seamstress, like me, couldn’t handle. After a few needle pokes and black thread, it looked good as new, yet still held that vintage, unique appeal I loved. I was now the proud new owner of a fabulous winter coat. This coat would have cost me over $100 anywhere else, but it was all mine for the best price of all: free. Moral of the story; go raid your grandma’s closet. Maybe they have secret treasures just for you!
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From that day forward I found my new love: thrift store shopping. It takes a little imagination, sifting, and maybe just a little of that famous “grandma smell,” but the outcome is worth it. For only a few dollars, and maybe a little bit of altering, you can achieve a very unique, highend look. Not feeling up to the smell and sifting? There are plenty of sites out there where you can vintage shop, without having to leave your home. You will pay a little more, but it might just be worth it if you’re not the patient type. Many don’t believe that there can possibly be any way to make vintage clothes current and stylish. I would say to them, that they have not opened their eyes yet to the beauty of vintage. Once you have purchased your pre-loved goods, mix and match with items already in your closet, throw on some funky accessories, and BOOM, you are now dynamite, and still have money for utilities! All said and done, others won’t think you look good unless you believe that you look good... if you have confidence in your outfit, others will too! You only look as good as you feel, so rock your vintage looks with pride!! Happy Thrifting!
Here are some quick tips for re-vamping “old” clothes to become new and fresh: • Shorten a dress to make it a fresh new shorter version. • Shorten arms to make it a 3-quarter length sleeve. • Bring in the sides and shoulders on a blazer, to make a snug fit. • Belt it, pin it, accessorize it, or just rock it as is!
Favorite thrift stores: Savers, Goodwill, and Salvation Army. Great online sources for vintage clothes: Etsy.com, Bigcartel.com. www.stampington.com
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rising talent Name: Sarah Tyau Blog: jaynsarah.blogspot.com Hometown: Utah Favorite color: mustard yellow Favorite food: Pad Thai
A La Mode: What kind of sewing machine and/or serger do you use? Sarah Tyau: I use a Husqvarna Viking sewing machine and I do not own a serger, but I’ve been thinking about getting one! The sewing machine is very basic and nothing fancy, it’s a sewing machine my mother bought for me in High School when I told her I wanted to be a fashion designer one day. She also bought me a karaoke machine when I told her I wanted to be a singer. That department isn’t going too well. But I’m grateful for an amazing mother who always supported my dreams. ALM: What got you involved in refashioning clothes? ST: I’m kind of a rat-pack and I don’t like to throw clothes away. I remember when I was younger and looking at pictures of my mom when she was in her 20’s and how cute her clothes were! She was well off and she used to design her own clothes herself. I asked my mom excitedly if she kept any of her old clothes but to my disappointment she said she hadn’t kept any of them. I remember telling myself from then on that I wasn’t going to throw any of my clothes away so that I could save it for my future daughters. Now I have two daughters and I know one day they’ll thank me for saving a lot of my clothes! ALM: What is a talent that you have that isn’t
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commonly known by others? ST: I can taste something and tell you exactly what ingredients went into making it. Then I try making it myself without a recipe and it usually turns out better than the original. The key word is usually. It doesn’t happen always, I wish! ALM: Where do you find inspiration from? ST: I find inspirations from clothing stores I love but would never pay the price they’re asking for. I’m a bargain shopper, even more so since I got married and most of my clothes I’ve purchased since my wedding day ranges from $5-10. My two favorites I get inspirations from is Anthropologie and J.Crew. ALM: Why did you start a blog? ST: My husband actually started our blog. A friend told us you can’t claim you’re parents until you get a blog and put cute pictures of your kids. So he wrote our very first blog, mainly to keep updates for our friends and family. I guess we can claim we’re parents now, phew! ALM: Why did you start a blog? ST: My husband actually started our blog. A friend told us you can’t claim you’re parents until you get a blog and put cute pictures of your kids. So he wrote our very first blog, mainly to keep updates for our friends and family. I guess we can claim we’re parents now, phew!
how-to:
make a ruffle shirt
I used inspiration from a blouse I saw online and instantly fell in love with!
1. Cut off a 4 ½ “ wide strip from the bottom of the blouse all the way around. 2. Cut the strip in half so it’s a one long strip and fold a 1/5” hem twice and sew it all the way down and the sides. (I didn’t have to sew the other long side since that side was the very bottom of the shirt so it was already hemmed.)
3. To make the ruffles, using a stitch length 5, sew the middle of the strip all the way down. Then you grab one side of the thread(either top or bottom) and gently tug and pull it while pulling down the fabric, thus creating the ruffle. 4. Cut another 4 ½” wide strip all the way around and repeat the process. This time you will have to hem all 4 sides since both sides are not already hemmed.
7. With the other strip of the ruffle, measure the shoulder strap length and cut it to match it’s length. The long strip should be long enough for two shoulder straps. 8. Sew on the ruffle onto the side/ shoulder of the neckline. Repeat the process of number 5 through 7 on both sides. The end of the strap ruffle/ribbon and the other strap/ ruffle part on the neckline should NOT meet all the way but there should be about a 1/2” space in between.
9. Using the tie string, cut a 2” string and loop it through the gold ring. Then sew the folded part and then sew the end of the string onto the end of the ruffle that’s on the side. 10. Lay the eyelet ribbon on top of the ruffle and sew it around until the end of the ruffle. The string that’s attached to the gold ring should be hidden like the picture. 11. Sew the other string on the other side of the gold ring. And then tie it into a bow.
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5. Now that you have 2 strips of ruffles, Lay one on top of the blouse and pin it straight along the neckline. Then sew the middle of the ruffle onto the blouse. There should be some ruffle going around the back. 6. Lay the eyelet ribbon on top of the ruffle and then sew on the ribbon in the middle all the way down to the end of the ruffle.
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creative space
the local art scene by Chelsea Edwards
Artists in southern california are finally being recognized for their unique work and laid-back technique. With the competitiveness in the current market, sculptors and illustrators alike are reinventing their personal style to stand out and rise up. I am one of those who has just undergone an art “make over” and I have never felt better! I encourage other artists, in any form, to reinvent yourself. My philosophy is that art allows me to be playful and find joy in the journey. I do things differently by breaking the rules. I glue things where they are not supposed to be glued, scribble and put animal heads on human bodies. Being random makes art fun. Each day represents another personal side. Go with the moment and listen to your inner child; I promise you won’t regret the outcome. Anthony Putrino
loves everything that the art world has to offer. Recently a graduate of CSUF as a studio art major, Anthony finds himself in several directions: painting, drawing in graphite and charcoal, sculpture, photography and even glass blowing. These photographs were were done as a part of a photo essay on the subject of Tattoo Art and Culture. They were taken at Slinger’s Ink, San Diego CA on a 35mm SLR using black and white film, and meant to express comroadary and the art of tatooing..
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Hank Huang
enjoys new socks and Korean BBQ, and when he’s not sleeping he’s doing one of these: painting, eating and bothering his friends. His art shows good line quality and subtle emotions. Among his many styles are delicate portraits and crazy collages made up of precise graphite drawings. “I would like to reach a point in my art career where I can just paint whatever I want and people will want to buy it”.
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pattern review
Brand: BurdaStyle Name: Marie #9177 Price: FREE Difficulty: Beginner Link: www.burdastyle.com/patterns/ marie These pattern instructions were fairly easy to understand. I did, however, hit a snag understanding what to do with the waistband. After a bit of patience I figured it out. If I make this again I would use a fabric with less body. I felt like it made me look bigger than I am. I love how you can wear this skirt year round! I would recommend this pattern to others. 26
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inspirational woman A La Mode: Can you give me a little background information about yourself? Anything that people might find interesting? S: I was born and raised in Sendai, Japan as the oldest of three girls. I am a self taught sewer with lots of trial and error. My mother told me that I started to sew when I was 2 years old. As long as I can remember, I have been drawing, sewing, creating, reading and writing. Now I am all grown, but I still enjoying doing the same things. When I was about 12 years old, I decided to be a desinger when I grow up and publish my craft essay book someday. With my health issues and family conflicts, things didn’t work out as I had hoped, but my desire to design and create never diminished. Several years ago, I started to design stitchery patterns and started selling them at several of the local quilt stores. Also, I have a cozy place in the blogging world called “Tea Rose Home” where I share my ideas and tutorials with my readers. I may never become a famous designer, but I realized that I can always pursue my dreams at my own pace and my own way. I am a “Self claimed designer” :) ALM: What kinds of hardship have you had to face that have made you stronger? S: I was born with a rare disorder called venious malformation in my entire right leg. It was a very severe condition, pretty much all the veins in my leg are too wide(my mother said that my right leg was twice the size of my left leg), and very hard for the blood to go back to the heart, so my heart had to work extra hard. The doctors told my parents that without an amputation, I will not live for long, even so, they didn’t think I could live past my teenage years. I had my leg amputated below the knee when I was two years old. Although, I still had problem in my right thigh (they decide to leave the thigh, so it would easier for me to learn to walk), growing up I was always anemic, needed blood transfusions, and was in and out of the hospital. Along with that, I also had abnormal hip displdisplasia in my right hip and I had my hip replaced two years ago. My family life wasn’t all perfect either. I know my mother always tried very hard to keep our family together, but my father was a very cold and unhappy person, and he was always preoccupied with work, social drinking, and sports. They often faught, and it was painfully obvious from even a child’s eyes that they were not happy. My father and I don’t have a close relationship, and there are many reasons and examples of why: If I was having a bad day and had to miss school, my father
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get very grouchy and told me that if I had a strong will I could beat my illness and that I am just being lazy. There was one incident when I was having severe leg pain and it was swollen for a while so I couldn’t wear my prosthetic leg. My mother wanted to cheer me up, so she suggested that we all go to my favorite restaurant. My father just yelled “If she is not wearing her leg, I am not going, that is so emberassing!” People said things and over time I learned how not to let those comments get to me, but it is very painful if they are coming from your own family, even your own father. They are supposed to love you and to protect you. I always thought that it was my fault that my father was that way. If I wasn’t born, if I was a healthy baby, our family could have been much better and happier. Although my disorder is not curable it is somewhat treatable, and I go through a procedure every now and then. I am grateful for my life, even for those things I have been through, the physical pains and the emotional pains. Because I practically grew up in the hospital, I have met so many people that I otherwise would have never met, and experienced many things, that you won’t learn in school. Because of how I grew up, it was very clear what I wanted in life, what kind of man I wanted marry, and what kind of family life I wanted. I can empathise with people who are in pain, sad, lonely, and suffering inside. Now I am married to the man of my dreams who happens to be my best friend. He loves me and treats me so well. He is always there for me and supports me in whatever I want to do. And, who knew, I didn’t just out live the teenage years, I have three beautiful, healthy children. and am driving my minivan all over the place and doing the typical mommy things every day. Between the mommy duties, I get to design and sew too, what more can I ask for? Several years ago, I realized my father is just a person too. I didn’t make him unhappy, he chose to be unhappy. You want your parents to be perfect people who will guide and support you, but in reality, they are also, human beings; who are also God’s children learning and struggling to find the way to happiness. We are still not close,(it doesn’t help to live so far away) and he is still the way he is. Although, I have come to peace, and now I just feel bad for him. He doesn’t know what he is missing out on. Pushing people away,
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saying hurtful things to others hasn’t made him happy. He could have had a much closer family and a much happier life, if he would have chosen it. I chose to be happy, yes, my life is not perfect and there are ups and downs. Laughs and tears, but I choose to be happy. Happiness is something you go find and make on your own, not something you wait for someone else to hand to you without any effort. My hardships in life taught me that, and I know I am extremely blessed to know that. ALM: What is one thing you wish you had known when you were younger? S: How hard and complicated parenting can be. (laugh) Don’t get me wrong, I love being a mom and there are moments that are very rewarding and fun. Although, being a parents is not just giving them shelter, feeding them and buying things for them. All my children have different personalties, their emotional needs are different. Everytime I feel that they are entering their next developemental stage, I am learning with them. I often wonder if I am doing a good job as their mom and teaching them what they need to know. If I knew there was lots of love and worries behind the disciplining and preaching my mom did for me, I probably would have behaved much better. ALM: Where do you find inspiration for you work? S: Everywhere. Sometimes it is just color combinations or simple shapes that make the light bulb in my head turn on. I love looking at beautiful fabrics, art and scenary, they inspire me too. Sometimes I have to step back and give myself a break, when I am trying to come up with new ideas and designs, nothing will come. Then, suddenly, an idea pops in my head out of nowhere; like when I am driving to pick up my kids from school. ALM: What things are you passionate about in life? S: Oh, this is hard one... I have many things I am passionate about, but I guess it comes down to a few things; I am passionate about designing and creating, doing that gives me fuel to keep going and to be myself I am passionate about my family. They give me ground that I can stand on, and always inspire me to be a better person I am passionate about my love for my religion, it gives me peace and comfort when I need them I am passionate about being happy, all those thing above make me happy. ALM: Why did you start a blog? S: I started designing and selling stitchery patterns at some local quilt stores back in 2003. After having my third child, it was very hard for me to find the time to design, promote and make a bunch of samples. Especially since I didn’t know how to expand my market, the business started to shrink. It was a very discouraging time for me. I decided to keep designing but at a much slower pace for the next few years, at least until all my children start going to school full time. I have a few local quilt stores that still carry my stitchery patterns and encourage me to keep desinging. I feel so appreciative for their support. Although I slowed down in desinging stitchery bussiness, I still sew and create for my family and friends, and my desire to share those ideas with others grew bigger over time. So, I jumped right in and started blogging, eventhough I had no clue what I was doing in the blogging world. “Tea Rose Home” was born in 2008.
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“Happiness is something you go find and make on your own, not something you wait for someone else to hand to you without any effort”.
my how-to I wanted a new dress for the summer, so I decided to go shopping in my closet. I found one gray tiered skirt made out of gauze, it is a few years old and hardly worn. That reminded me of a gray tank top I bought a while ago at an outlet for $2.50(J.Crew). They are slightly different shade of grays but I knew they were the perfect match to make my dress. The methed I used is easliy transferable to what you have, and you can use a t-shirt instead of a tank top. My skirt was made out of gauze, but you can use other types of material too.
You will need
Tank top Long skirt Matching thread 7-8 buttons
1. Cut 4” off from bottom of the tank (after this, the length of the neckline to the bottom of the tank became 11” long). If you prefer shorter top, cut off more. If you prefer longer top, cut off less, but make sure that you have enough to make ruffles later. Also, cut off the waist band from the skirt. If your skirt doesn’t have a wide waistband like mine, you can alway cut some off from the top or bottom.
5. Iron fusible interfacing on the wrong side of the 1 1/4” X 11”(light gray)strip. 6. Lay the strip from step 5, on top of the the tank and dark gray strip layer. 7. Zig-Zag all around the light gray fabric.
11. Mark the places for buttons. 1/2” from the top, and 1 1/2” apart between the each button. Sew the buttons.
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2. Iron 1/2” wide interfacing to the wrong side of the bottom edge of the tank. 3. The cutting instructions for the ruffles: From the bottom of the tank (light gray) cut 1 - 1 1/4” x 11” strip, and 2 - 3/4” x the circumference of the bottom of the tank strips. From the waist band (dark gray) cut 1 - 2 1/2” x 11” strips, and 2 - 1” x 11” strips.
4. Fold the tank in half (right to left) and mark the middle line. Also, fold the 2 1/2” X 11”(dark gray) strips in half to mark the middle. Line up the mark, and lay the strip on top of the tank.
8. Make ruffles. Sew the strips with the largest setting. For the 3/4” light gray long strips, sew 1/4” from
9. Pin the 3/4” wide long ruffle on top of the dark gray strip and sew. Repeat the process for the opposite side as well. 10. Pin the 1” X 11” dark gray ruffles next to the light gray ruffles and sew. They are about 1/2” apart.
12. Pin the right sides of the top and the skirt together and using a 1/4” seam allowance and sew. Use a serger or zig-zag and sew the edge to prevent fraying.
13. Fold the seam toward the top and press. Turn the dress inside out. Sew along the edge between the top and the skirt using 1/8” seam allowance.
the edge. For the 1” X 11” strips sew in the middle of the strips. Pull the strings to gather the fabrics to make ruffles.
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Artistic Veteran Joanne Kurts is an art pioneer of her time. Combining traditional techniques with modern materials, she manages to produce something that is both unique and eyecatching. Her love of the safari and african art style have lead to a distinguishable personality. She has also attracted viewers with her use of “green� materials and vivid colors that pop both off the page and out of her books.
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“People think it’s crazy that all I use as a base are paper bags...” www.stampington.com
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Artist Q&A down, I will usually forget). Sometimes I use them right away and sometimes it’s years later. I keep all my “inspiration papers” together and will look at them when needed. ALM: What are your artistic goals for the future? JK: Continue to “enjoy the process” and express more of who I am and what I believe in my art. A La Mode: Tell us about yourself, hobbies, childhood, an interesting fact. Joanne Kurtz: When I was a child I loved to dance, especially ballet. Now, my favorite hobby is doing art,of course! :) I also enjoy walking, biking, reading, and just being in nature. (It’s a good thing that I enjoy walking and biking because I don’t have a car and it’s how I’m getting around these days) I also love humor and making people laugh. ALM: What got you started in your artistic hobby? JK: A friend asked me to take a painting class with her-I loved working with the paints. Then, for many years I enjoyed scrapbooking where I learned many different techniques and loved painting my own papers. Recently, I have taken some online art courses and started drawing and painting portraits. ALM: What things are you passionate about in life? JK: Spirituality, animal rights, and doing art. ALM: What sets you apart from other artists? JK: I am still working on that-finding my own unique style. ALM: Where do you find inspiration for your art? JK: Everywhere! Everything I see and hear goes into the hard drive in my head and is ready to be downloaded when needed. I’m always writing ideas down that pop into my head(if I don’t write them
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ALM: Do you have a favorite technique or specific style? How would you describe it? JK: I love mixed media! Combining drawing and painting with collage, stamping, embossing, inking, adding texture, words, fibers, glitter, etc. It’s a great mixture of the techniques I’ve been doing for years and the new skills I am learning now. ALM: Ideas come at unexpected moments like when you’re... JK: In the shower-which makes it hard to write them down... ALM: What is one piece of advice you can offer fellow artists? JK: Never stop trying!
share! Cambria Allison
My name is Cambria and I’m a nineteen-year-old creative mind. Art has always been a huge part of my life and growing up was filled with watercolor, sculpting, music, theater and dancing. I’m now in college studying filmmaking and I completely love it. Making these books is one of my favorite types of art projects I can do on the side. There are so many possibilities though, it can become hard to pick from so many. That’s why I always start with a subject first. Whether it’s my sister, a best friend, a parent or a boyfriend, I always have someone in mind before beginning a new book so I can easily narrow down the theme I want. Once I’ve chosen the subject, I look for things that they like or things that remind me of them. The base for the pages are magazine clippings and photographs or scrapbook paper, but on top you can use just about anything that will fit in the book. Personalize it for the one you are making it for and they will love it. You will also have a blast making it.
Lisa Edwards
I was born in Ireland and my middle name “Erin” is a reminder of my birthplace and my parents’ European adventures. I graduated from BYU with a BS in Communications (Photography emphasis) and a minor in art. My two most pivotal moments have been meeting & marrying my soul mate and becoming a mother. My life’s work has really been my four amazing children and feel so grateful to be a part of watching them blossom…they are my treasure. As a child, I remember my Uncle Bob following us around with his 4x5 camera capturing the moments of our childhood. I’m so grateful for that legacy he left us even though he is gone. I don’t think there’d be many photo memories if it hadn’t been for him. I think it’s so important to preserve and celebrate family heritage. I love photography because it captures and freezes moments in time that can be savored over again. I love the power and emotion that visual imagery can have on one’s emotions. I am always inspired by light, but especially in autumn, when light has a different quality about it. I find great inspiration from nature, children, sharing ideas with other creative minds, and studying work from other artists…my two favorites being my own two artist daughters. Their energy always inspires my mind. Favorite quote: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you, take but by the number of moments that take your breath away.” author unknown. Lisa.erin Artistic Photography. email: lisaerinphotography@hotmail. com http://lisaerinphotography.blogspot.com/ www.stampington.com
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Confession Session dish your dirty deeds!
I’m a
Hello Kitty
enthusiast. I never believed in Santa or the Tooth Fairy.
Sometimes I count walking up and down the stairs with
I’ve purposely looked helpless to get the cute guys in my building to help me with my groceries. (Before I was married of course!)
shopping/grocery bags as my workout. I’m the weirdo who buys those earthy CD sounds collection at Target.
I’ve cried to an officer to get out of a ticket.
I won’t buy cereal unless it’s on sale, but I’ll spend $75 on
When I’m bored I play rhyming games in my head.
a dress from Banana Republic.
I love Michel Buble but I’ll always think of him as the poor man’s Frank Sinatra. I went to Sephora to have my makeup done because I ran out of DiorShow and didn’t want to pay for it. 34
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I ALWAYS take a free sample, even if I know I’ll never use it.
I always return my shopping carts. Once I didn’t for the sake of time, but ended up going back 2 lights down the street because I felt so guilty.
I love eating leftover pasta for breakfast. I lied to strangers all the time about how far along I was in pregnancy just so I wouldn’t get shocked looks when I’d admit to having another 2 months to go.
I didn’t know anything about the “birds & the bees,” until the 8th grade. Seriously, so embarassing. I’ve accidentally worn my bra inside out for an entire day... a few tiames.
I don’t clean my microwave until the smell makes me gag. I’ve pretended to be on my phone in the store so that I don’t look awkward and alone.
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