Show Me A Story: Book Review and GIVEAWAY-CLOSED

Today, I'm honored to be a part of the blog tour for Emily Neuburger's new book, Show Me a Story.  

Not only is this book amazing and Miss Emily super talented, but she's one of the most genuine and kind people you'll ever meet.  I am fortunate to be able to call her a friend. 

This book inspires the storyteller in us all.  The projects are simple in design, but the possibilities boundless.  The 4 year old story teller in my house, couldn't keep his hands off of it.

Since the weather has been so nice, we decided to go out for a Storytelling walk.  The idea is to "mentally" collect items to later create a story with.  For my little boy, physically collecting items to tell stories with is part of the fun as well. 

We took along a bag, and some friends, and collected.

There were stories of troll homes along the way,

and at home, we drew and retold stories from the day.

This book truly inspired me to look at the world around me and even if for but a few moments, get lost in an imaginary world.  I have fond memories of creating these worlds as a child and look forward to sharing that experience with my own kids.  This will be the guidebook to help lead us there. 

To enter to win your own copy of this fabulous book:

• Leave a comment (with your email address) here telling me what inspires the storyteller in you (US residents only, sorry!)

• You can also enter a second chance giveaway on the Storey Publishing Blog: HERE

• Giveaway closes on Friday, October 7 at midnight

Happy Weekend. 

My Washi Dress

I finally finished my Washi Dress and I have but one photo to show.  I was actually trying to get my face in this one, but my tripod and my son weren't cooperating.  I don't know how people get such great photos.  The hubs tries, but I'll be honest, I'm kind of picky.  
So, here are the deets:

• I cut an XS and sewed it up as instructed.  The result for me is a bit big.  Next time I'll take it in and probably make it narrower
• The fabric is a 100% cotton, lightweight denim 
• I used a topstitch needle and topstitch thread to add some detailing.  Would be awesome if I had an up close pic, but I don't....

 Anyway, I love the pattern.  It's gotten a bit cold here, so I'll need to be sporting this one with some tights and a sweater. 

Oilcloth Zip Pouch TUTORIAL

On my most recent trip to IKEA I picked up a yard of this great oilcloth for only $3.50, which ended up being perfect for a little zip pouch.  To make your own, first download the pattern here. 

For the pouch you'll need, some oilcloth for the exterior, a quilting cotton for the interior, and a 7inch zipper.

Here are the cut pieces with some extra rectangles for an optional zipper tabs.

If you are going to make the zipper tabs, cut 2 rectangles of oilcloth that are 2 inches by 2.5 inches.  Fold as shown, sew on the end of the zipper, then trim the excess. 

 Lay the right side of zipper down on right side of exterior piece and the right side of the lining on top of that.  Using your zipper foot, sew a 1/2 inch seam across all 3 layers.

Here's what it looks like when you unfold the pieces.

 Do the same for the other side of the zipper.  Again, lay the right side of zipper on the right side of the exterior piece and the right side of the lining piece on top.  Again, sew a 1/2inch seam across. 

 Fold it all back and top-stitch along zipper.

Match up the lining and exterior pieces as shown.  Sew around all sides, leaving an opening for turning in the lining.

To box out the corners, match the side seam to the bottom seam and sew across with a 1/2 inch seam.  Do this for all 4 corners.

 This is what it should look like a this point.  Turn the bag right side out, close the opening you left for turning either by sewing it by hand, or making a little seam with your machine. 

Finished pouch measures approximately 8"x4"x2.5"

Thanks for stopping by!