handmade hodgepodge

Evicted and Squatting

2009-06-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am wasting time and really loving it. I've got all these projects moving through the sewing room (I like to call it my studio - but get teased unmercifully), but I've not photographed anything of importance.

I'd like to blame this lack of blogging love on the fact that I know I have a new blogging home being built for me. And as well all know, nothing beats the thrill of new. So as I wait..... I create silly things that I am sure will be one of a kind - as no one wants me to make them again.

[this "treasure" is a birthday gift for miss Sophie. She is a lover of the covered button clips, and I am a lover of a 5 minute project involving felt.]

I'm Moving

2009-05-22T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hello There Friends,

Have you wondered if I broke my arm? No posts since March?!? Well, here is the scoop, living has taken up all of our time. Yes, there has been creating- just no time to document it.

The little etsy store is plugging along. I've made an executive decision to change the name of the store and focus the inventory. It seems that the buying world is more interested in clothing for the little tykes than the imagination toys that I love so much. So the toys are gone (and for now so is everything else).

The simple living store is green doodle clothing co. (Thank you husband for the name). There will be a new blog - I hope you will join me. There you will find the same this and that's of a handmade world, but now under one name.

So, if your are up for a little travelling.... come on over. The place is a mess, but you are always welcome. http://www.greendoodle.typepad.com/

Hope to see you soon,
Heidi

The Scout Skirt-a fantastic knockoff

2009-03-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

I am admittedly slow when in comes to trends and being the cool kid. I am WAY behind the times. For instance, although I really love Mary Englebriet's stuff, I had no idea she had a magazine until last summer. [sadly the magazine is now out of print.]

After reading the summer issue, I had to make and do EVERYTHING in it... including becoming Heather Bailey. Honestly, I was instantly in love with her. Due to this love affair, I follow her blog religiously, and recently found this.

Although my bugdet would not allow her fabrics (she even designs them ), I found a few scraps for Sunday attire and gave it a shot. It may not be Heather Bailey, but Scout sure doesn't care.

[This post's for you Mammasita. You asked, I delivered.]

Sending a Little Apron Love

2009-03-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

My good friend over at Store and Style was looking for a little apron love. So, I decided to humor her. This week only, you can be entered to win a custom made apron for you or your little ones. Here is a tiny sampling of what could be arriving in your mailbox.

Go to storeandstyle.com to enter.

Obsessive Fabric Disorder

2009-03-09T09:19:00.001-07:00

Just a quicky:

I am absolutely addicted to fabric. It makes me happy. I can fabric shop for hours in acomotose state, spending money I don't have for fabric I have no ideas for. But never fret, the ideas will come -- either that or the garbage truck.

Baby A and Baby B: summer pheasant blouses?

Again, for the girls... of course: underlying ruffle for this skirt
And probably something for the Baldwin's as it screams of Sarah.

Oh, and here's a little something I'm giving away for peanuts at the store.

Sleeping on the Stage

2009-03-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

Our rental has this bay window of sorts that takes up a big chunk of a very small living room. The girls don't mind as it is the perfect stage. I've wanted to make a big cushion, but these things require dough.

Well, it turns out our guest bed (insert Futon here) is on the hard side. My grandma needed more cush- and hence a double duty cushion.

The cushion was a whopping 3 yards long. At $36.99 a yard that can really add up. Luckily we had 3 coupon carrying gals and the project ended up less expensive than the Target alternative.

So far I've only made one pillow, but hopefully the urge to beautify the wooded castle will strike soon.

Sleepwear at Church-Heavenly

2009-03-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

I've been reluctant to share my sewing. Have you seen the great stuff out there? Lately, it has been much more fun to to ooohh and aaahh over the handiwork of others.

Although flawed, here's what I've been up to. While the girls have potty trained - I have sewed.

This for Scout...

Originally I had fallen in love with this inherited pattern and experimented out a dress for Izzy. Saturday evening as I laid out Sunday clothes, Scout asked "my sunday dress?" How dare I? So out came a nightgown pattern- perfect for fast fashion. I am in love with this pattern. SO EASY! I can see their summer wardrobe already.

This is the pattern I found in a stash from Duke's grandma. Although Izzy has great legs, I figured it might be a little much for Massachussetts weather.

and of course, ... covered buttons.

I wonder what next Sunday's wardrobe will be?

$2 Goodness

2009-03-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

Just in case you're interested, I'm having a grand opening sale at etsy. For the month of March you will find $2 goodness. Have look...

(you may remember some of these from the backyard boutique that never quite was due to the presence of the fire department).

Friday's Feature: Just Stickem Up!

2009-02-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

Chances are you know people like Linda. If they didn't have the nice factor, you just might hate them. The Linda's of this world are not "a little good at a lot of things" , they are experts at everything - and never, never gloat.

This Linda is exceptionally talented: music, crafting (creating),writing, smarts, people skills... the works. The queen of " I can make that".

Linda's sister(an I can make that queen as well) bought a vinyl lettering machine in hopes of playing with a new crafting toy. In an effort to pay for this toy, Linda and her sister began hosting vinyl lettering parties. That one machine has turned to four. The two dabbling sisters have added a small staff of three, thus keeping more moms at home. Their business has boomed, and they deserve it.

The great thing is, her kids would say their mom doesn't work. Little do they know.

Check Just Stickem Up! out here.

Do you (or someome you know) want to be featured? We'd love to.

email handmadehodgepodge@hotmail.com

Happy Birthday Giveaway

2009-02-25T09:29:00.001-08:00

[Disclaimer: I am not smart. I will not pretend to be. I have changed the giveaway requirements - but will let you bask in my dumbness by leaving what I originally wrote. Instead of #25 comment getting a giveaway, I will randomly select someone after 25 comments? Why comment if you know you won't win.

However, #1 did win. Maybe a few more too. I'm feeling generous. ]

and on to the post...

Last month I celebrated my birthday by giving away. Well today is my good mother's birthday- and no I won't tell you how old she is. So in celebration of my ever creative mother, I'd like to sew in her honor.

There's a catch. Since I don't know who will win, I don't want to narrow the prize to something you may not want or need. Since I am "a little good and a lot of things" I think I can make you happy.

Here are some choices:
bibs and burp cloths
apron
toddler jumper
monogrammed cape
zippered pouches (for make-up and such)
Lovey doll
Sofa pillow
Front Door Decor

Appliqued kid's tee shirt

To the 25th original commentor ( repeats don't count)

I'd like to invite you to celebrate my talented mom.

How can I serve you?

Friday's Feature: Ambrosia

2009-02-13T05:17:00.000-08:00

This is the first of a (hopefully) weekly feature of those of you who've found a way to make ends meet while keeping close proximity to your kids. Way to go!

Heather Berntsen is an artist, although she would never admit it. She makes all of this and more in a matter of days.

She single-handedly runs

AMBROSIA EXQUISITE WEDDING CAKES,

one of Utah's leading cake designing companies.

If you can dream it, she can create it.

Not only are these the most artistic cakes out there, they are incredibly delicious. Made from scratch, fresh- never frozen is the pitch. (You'd be surprised at how many companies make your cake from a mix and throw it in the freezer!) These cakes will knock your socks off!

So if your in Utah, and in the mood for cake ....

Hodgepodgerie

2009-02-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wandered over to Crafty Crow? She shares so many do-able craft ideas to do with and for kids. I am still dreaming about the fabric barn and playhouse---still a little scared though. Does that make it a nightmare project? Anyway, in her list of Valentine greatness ( and let me tell you, you will be awed!! Gorgeous printable valentines, potato stamp flowers...) she listed my simple Valentine heart necklaces my mom taught me years and years ago.

go here for a look:

Oh, and if you want to see (or buy) the puppet designs of Sarah, Liberty, and Heidi, check out the etsy store. They are waiting for you. CoveredButtons

Smarty Pants Pigs and Silly Ole' Wolf Puppet Set

Little Red and Rockin Granny Puppet Set

Goldie and Friends Puppet Set

Smarty Pants

2009-02-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

Nothing Original... just kinda fun.

At our house we are learning about the potty. Apparently when grammy comes, so do Elmo panties (according to Scout). So I wasn't too surprised when I was given a baby doll and a diaper. With the cost of disposables, these dollies need the cloth variety.

You likey?

go here to see how. So many creative women. I am awed!

what you can do with 5 yards of fabric

2009-02-04T20:39:00.000-08:00

i found this edible fabric at a discount store
and couldn't pass it up
i just knew that SOMETHING good would come of it
and i was right...

liberty and i got busy and whipped up
five little somethings for five little girls
guess which two are coming
your way heidi?

Olivia Lovey Doll-SOLD

2009-02-03T18:30:00.000-08:00

In case you are in need of a little love this Valentines..

This little lovey has graciously volunteered to be the first in the handmade store. May I introdue the Olivia doll. (Yes, I know it looks like she has a tumor. Trust me when I tell you it is the angle.) She is available in my new etsy store http://www.coveredbuttons.etsy.com/

If you'd like to choose your fabrics, email me and I'll send you a picture of your options. Dolls are $15 through etsy and special orders through this site are $12. Order before Valentine's Day and get a free Valentine treasure in Olivia's pocket.

Yeah! The first esty item sold!!! This dolly is still available via email and will be back at esty after I charge the camera battery. Thank you friends.

Store and Style

2009-02-03T18:24:00.001-08:00

Those of you searching for a handmade project this Valentine's Day are going to love this. Go to http://www.storeandstyle.com/ to see the new February issue. They have all kinds of practical tips for making life easier and funner. (I know it isn't a word, but shouldn't it be?)

While your looking, check out the Valentine necklace. Could it be? You got it, I'm published. Hoop Yah!

You have gotta try this cake. So rich. So decadent. So not Weight Watchers. I blew all my points on this one.

Oh, and don't forget to sign up for their weekly giveaway. Their freebies are the greatest.

Enjoy.

The QUEEN is in

2009-01-30T14:08:00.000-08:00

Let me share a little of Sarah (tough my friend, I have the password). She can make anything, and often does. Not only is she talented, but she actually is a finisher. Admirable!

This is what we found in the mail today (notice how well they match the capes). Liberty, did you have a hand in this too?

When Izzy woke up from her nap she grabbed her crown and said, "call, Gamma. I a princess". Not bad for a kid with a vocabulary of about 24 words.

We love them Sarah. And we love you too.

So Yummy!

2009-01-30T11:52:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this? http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com/She will blow you away.

Not only does she create amazing items like this:

and this: but she GIVES THEM AWAY!!!!
Seriously, I think she's found a few more hours in the day!

Take a look. She's got a store too.

Sugar Cookie Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

All with a quart of paint

2009-01-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

I've gone a little turquoise crazy lately.

It started with the girls' play table from Sarah and Liberty (look at the cute message and tablecloth).

But there was still paint in the can.

Yesterday my husband comes home and asks what I've painted turquoise today.

There are a few drops left. Any ideas?

On a side note I have a new place to go to mentally when say, in labor. This "nook" makes me so happy!

Calling all Creators

2009-01-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know why, the the term crafter irks me. Crafter brings images of blue kitchen geese or even glass grape centerpieces. Or, worse yet, lots of stringy hot glue projects with weird pipe cleaners and beads. I prefer to create rather than craft.

So a few Sundays ago when our lesson was finding joy in creating, I was listening. No matter our talents, we create. We create beauty, children, dinner, uplifting cards, friendly conversations, as well as capes, puppet shows, clothing, house goods --- OK, so you get the idea. On a side note, I am sure our lists of creations change with the seasons of life, as well as the balance of our bank accounts.

We here at hodgepodge want to know what's on your table. What are you creating. What is bringing you joy? What is on your list of projects. Inspire us by sharing. That means you too Emily(and no, I never thought you were bragging). Sarah- what is in the Valentine box? Liberty, how's that bedroom coming? Rozie, what are you playing with your kids today? Heather, I'd love to see the cake show cakes. Everyone else?

Who knows, I may just give away a goodie just for sharing. Hmmm.

Let's inspire each other to do as our Creator, and find joy in creating.

Happy Crafting!

Up, up and away

2009-01-24T07:30:00.000-08:00

Have you ever looked at Chasing Fireflies children's clothing? Simple Amazing!

And simply outrageously priced. This cape is $48. It cost $7 to make two of them.

Sorry for the crummy resolution. Their site really will blow your socks off.

I thought this looked to be an inexpensive, doable project. It was both of those things, although the finished project is Heidi-quality, not a high end children's boutique creation. I simply couldn't keep that silky fabric still.

I love this picture of the girls watching TV pantsless in capes. What a life.

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

2009-01-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun little yummy that everyone will enjoy.

Materials:

pretzels

cookie sheet

melting candy / flavored chocolate

- available at all craft stores and even the big bad W store - you know who I mean

parchment paper

double boiler - or sauce pot and bowl

fork or slotted spoon

sprinkles optional

Bring a pot of water to boil and turn off. Place candy in bowl over hot water. (It is hard to do this in the microwave as the candy gets cold and clumpy, but it works).

Once melted, place a handful of non broken pretzles in melted candy and stir around. Using fork lift one covered pretzel out at a time tapping excess on side of bowl.

Place on parchment and let cool. (The messier ones taste better as they have more chocolate.)

Drizzle with more flavored chocolate if desired, or sprinkle with sprinkles while wet.

Eat.

And We Have a WINNER!

2009-01-12T17:07:00.001-08:00

I can't tell you how shocked I was too see 35 comments on the give away. I love you Emily. Nicely done. I may have to give away a few more goodies just to see whose watching.

If you want to make the banner here you go...

I used 5 inch chipboard squares from the craft store, but you could use cardboard

I chose 10-12 coordinating 12x12 scrapbook sheets then cut letters and 5 inch squares

I used Mod Podge to gue the background paper down, let dry then glued the letters.

I am not a pro at Mod Podge (but truly love it) and was worried about the bubbles, but it dried smoothly.

I used a hole punch to thread the ribbon through and Wallah! A banner. Have fun!

Happy, Happy Birthday to YOU!

2009-01-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

In celebration of my advancing age, I'd like to give you a gift.

Be the 33rd person to comment on this post and you will receive this birthday banner.

I realize that we have a following of a whopping three readers (and maybe their mothers), so you will either have to tell all your friends about us - or post a whole lot. Your choice.

Happy Posting...

ode to heidi

2009-01-07T22:04:00.001-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HEIDI!!!

we thought of you

and we missed you

every minute of this day

some may wonder where the other half of this cake is...

well, we only got a half because

seriously,

the two of us eating a whole cake is just... not right!

we love you and hope you had a special day!!

Resolution: Table Manners

2009-01-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

True to form, here is a hodgepodge item that was truly handmade... Dream Roll

I have made this dessert 4 times.

First effort the recipe was wrong. I know how it sounds. Aunt Jaynie published the recipe with 1 TBS of salt. I thought it sounded crazy, but who I am I to question the published chef Aunt Jaynie.

Second try (same day as the salt overload) I forgot the sugar. I served it anyway trying to pull off European dark chocolate. No takers.

My third try I didn't sift the cocoa and thus there were weird bittersweet choco bullets. Very gross.

Seems new year carma is on my side. The 4th time is the charm.

We had the elders and an investigator over to ring in the new year (precisely at 6 p.m.). I guess my dessert looked pretty good. The grateful and nice teenager the missionaries brought over liked it so much he demanded I get back in the kitchen and make him another. I guess manners are not part of his charm.

Happy New Year!

Chocolate Dream Roll

Preaheat over to 375 degrees, grease pan, grease parchment paper.

In a lagre bowl mix and set set aside:

10 egg yolks

2 cups sifted powdered sugar

1/2 cup flour

3 TBS sifited cocoa

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 tsp salt

In mixer beat egg whites till very stiff. Fold into above ingredients.

Pour mixture into prepared 1/2 sheet cake pan (large cookie sheet).

Bake 15-20 minutes. Roll with whipping cream, frost with chocolate frosting or drizzle with fudge sauce.

Thieves Pay Back

2008-12-30T19:19:00.000-08:00

Today marks the point where talk takes action. For too long we have stalked and stolen your great sewing and crafting ideas. Thank you. So now that we have merged your ideas with our fabrics and notions, we have decided to give back.

We take no credit for being original. We make no claims to be fantastic. We simply need a forum to keep those creative juices flowing. (and let's face it - a place to show off just a little).

So there you have it - here's what we are working on today.

Anyone for a Show?

2008-12-30T18:17:00.000-08:00

The doorway puppet theater is not a unique idea. But with Sarah's vintage fabric stash and a steady supply of caffeine, we have turned the simple puppet theater into a doorway farmer's market, bank, burger shop, and even Jamba Juice. Brilliant!

My girls squealed with delight at opening this gift (mostly because it wasn't so much of a surprise to them as it has been on every surface of my house for months). But, when finally assembled in the doorway, they rather use the theater as a swing than a stage. Go figure.

Simple Doorway Tutorial

materials:

heavy solid canvas fabric (aprox 1 1/2 yard)
ribbon, bias tape or fray check
wonder under and fabric for embellishments
fabric for curtains
snaps and snap tool (available at all craft stores)
mini shower curtain rod (Target or Wal-Mart about $5)

Measure width and of doorway (1 yard is a good width to work with). Determine desired length from top to bottom.

Hem edges, or use ribbon or bias tape to finish edges. (If you really hate sewing you could use fray check - but it would probably require a couple of bottles).

Fold over top edge 2 inches and sew a casing for the rod.

Fold entire project in half lengthwise to cut the window. The size of the window depends on your preferences. Finish edges with ribbon, fray check, or bias tape.

Cut two small curtains and turn and hem edges. Either machine gather or hand gather at top and pin to theater. Sew down.

Here's the fun part. Embellish. Do you want flowers, geometric shapes, pockets, or nothing? Have fun.

I cut the signs out of the same canvas and finished with bias tape. My friends appliqued their words, I painted mine. You could velcro, snap or button the sign on. You choose.