Our donation - Thanks from Penny and Me

Thanks everyone for your support of my patterns and book for Creative Sweatshirt Jackets. Look what-together-we have done...donated $608 since Sept. 9 to Miracles in Action. Wow! As the note says - we are helping poor families to help themselves. I am blessed in the giving, and you should be as well. Thanks again!

Mom's new Jacket

It's done - YEA! Below are process steps. The corally texture fabric is actually gores from an 8 gore skirt of mine that I had decided I didn't want any longer - thus found it in my 'coral box' of stash fabric. Note that I'm accenting the left shoulder as I look at it. The first step was covering and growing the back yoke with silk doupionni.

See in the 2nd photo that I'd cut it on the bias, and chevroned the grain up and out at the shoulders.
For 'trim' I layered several strips of bias cut silk irridescent douponni and after stitching down the center, then 'roughed' up the edges with this great Chenille Brush.

That trimming accented the diagonal, and went along the edges of the purple yoke. I bound the edges of the lower front and back - and then sleeves too - with 2" wide bias pieces of a dark purple silk matka. Stitched it to WRONGside, then wrapped the edge. More chenille trim tops that for a finish - couching down this great variegated silk yarn in the very center of the trim as I attached it to the jacket.

Here, then are close-up shots of the final creation. See that I continued the very dark purple that edged the center front and hem, on around the neckline. The 'collar' is the original lower ribbing of the sweatshirt - ala my Transformed Pattern.

This shot of the front shows how great the Crone Art button works with my color scheme! A ponytail elastic band is anchored to the inside of the right front to close the jacket around this great button. This jacket went together quite easily - I only spent 2 real sessions of about 2-3 hours each on it.
I like it - so hope my Mom will as well. If not - I'll make her another and this will be a good sample.

Just had an email this morning from a customer who purchased my DVD in Houston at Quilt Festival and said she'd made several jackets - YEA!

Embellish a Hoodie

Well - this might be crazy, posting and blogging about a Christmas gift before it is given...but I have my doubts that my future niece-in-law will ever see this.

Starting with a pull0ver hoodie sweatshirt - I slashed it up the center, added a hood lining cut on the bias, bands up the center front, cut off the lower band, added an interfaced piece of fabric... and added a big black zipper. Some hand stitching using the Clover double eyed needles to easily work with 2 different color strands of pearle cotton was fun too - and I think (hope) added a funky feel.

Sew....hoodies transformed....a new direction??

Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Copied from a book - NOT original - but it was pretty neat - a squashy, flat pumpkin that I'd bought after seeing this idea back before Halloween. Stayed fresh on my front porch. Drilled HUGE holes with my drill for the candles (5), the fresh greenery is seeded eucalyptus. Assorted little gourds and pumpkins were hot-glued to the top.
Noticed a soft spot on the side after Thanksgiving that night - so removed it from my dining room table to the kitchen counter. SURE glad I did, as during the night, it all collapsed - mush pie! Couldn't even blame it on one of my cats (who were fast asleep at our feet on the bed).

Engage with me in Merry Tossmas

Just got this email - and WOW! Do I ever agree! Be sure to click on the title of this post to watch the very entertaining - and pointedly true video on "Tossmas".

Here is the list of Christmas-friendly retailers - that I will support. In fact, I plan on going to Bed Bath & Beyond with my 20% off coupon, asking to see the Manager, then respectfully rip it up in their presence and tell them why and that I'm on my way over to Linen n' Things to buy that coffee maker for my hubby for a CHRISTMAS gift because they call Dec. 25 what it is - Christmas!

See below - and participate as you feel led. I feel better that I've shared it with you!

Focus on the Family Action’s2008 Christmas-Friendly Shopping Guide

How leading retailers’ messages rate
Last updated: 11/13/08
We welcome your use of these ratings in your shopping decisions. As an additional way to help you communicate with the retailers we evaluated, we are providing the convenience of a petition which you can sign by visiting focuspetitions.com.
Retailers will be presented with petitions – thanking those that embrace “Christmas,” and alerting those that have purged or marginalized “Christmas” that you object to the secularization of Christmas. We hope you will “stand for Christmas” with us and encourage the continued acknowledgement of this historic Christian observance in our culture.
"Christmas-friendly" retailers– prominent acknowledgment of "Christmas"
Cabela's Crate&Barrel Dillard's Eddie Bauer JCPenney Kohl's

L.L.Bean Lands' End Linens 'n Things Lowe’s Macy's Neiman Marcus Nordstrom Pier 1 Imports Sears The Home Depot Target Wal-Mart

“Christmas-negligent” retailers – marginalized use of “Christmas”
Barnes & Noble Bed Bath & Beyond Best Buy Borders
Circuit City Dick's Sporting Goods GAP KB Toys Kmart Toys “R” Us

“Christmas-offensive” retailers – apparent abandonment of “Christmas”
American Eagle Banana Republic Bloomingdale's Lane Bryant Old Navy

Originally published by Focus on the Family Action. Copyright © 2008 Focus on the Family.

Creative Sweatshirt Jackets - Londa's Way : now available

My new BOOK - a printed book - is now available for purchase. Color cover and step-by-step instructions inside for the 5 great jackets you see photo'd on the front and back covers, including the few patterns needed - all for just $18.95. If you've wanted to try one of my jackets, but were a bit intimidated, I wrote this book for YOU! All self-contained, but I also did construct a webpage with a video on fitting - just as an 'add-on' to 'train' you to the neat concept of utilizing the web to transfer even MORE info - as this is the way my patterns work...linking to webPAGES for all the photos.

There's a story behind this one - and I thank helper/friend Cyndi from the Novi show for her awesome listening to both my customers, and then my 'composing' it on the road on the way home. Once home from the American Sewing Expo, and convinced I should do a PRINTED book (in addition to my 'book' on DVD), I locked myself up for 2 days and just DID IT! With the stupendous help of my wonderful local printer, Upclose Printing, in Champaign, IL, I was able to 'debut' it at the Houston Quilt Market and Festival.

Just as with my pattern sales, I've promised to tithe on the sales of this book to my current charity: Miracles In Action - www.miraclesinaction.org

So far - the book is being very well accepted - I've even already had 2 nice orders from Nancy's Notions. Comment here about your experiences with my book.

New idea: another DVD - ALL video, and on the basics of fitting and embellishment. No PDF portion - so lower cost than my Ultimate DVD.

Not sure when that will 'happen' as I have wedding sewing in my future - as daughter is getting married in late May. It will be FUN to sew on silk and satin - rather than sweatshirt fleece for a change!

Guest spot on Pfaff's Now Sewing now airing

I'd been told that my 'spot' on the Pfaff educational site: http://www.nowsewing.net/ would debut on Oct. 24... but that 'happened' while I was in Houston, so what a 'treat' today when it occurred to me to log on to the site to see if I really was 'on'! Yep - Grandson Cole (3 1/2 now) even stopped his playing to "see Nana on the 'puter' TV".



A full half hour of my techniques all about fitting and embellishing my fashionable jackets made from sweatshirts is the latest spot - and garnering pretty good reviews, I see! :)

This site began as a way to educate the Pfaff dealers - and was so popular that the dealers asked for it to go 'public'. The offerings can be seen when you click at http://www.nowsewing.net/index/webapp-register-form.
I've registered for the Platinum at $29.95 because it gives me unlimited access to ALL the "Behind the Scenes" interview/lessons with Sewlebrities from both 2007 and 2008 AND acess to the projects that go along with those spots.
Gold Membership is $19.95 - giving access to only 2008 spots, or you can also just buy a 'ticket' to a single viewing of a spot (like mine!) for $3.95 - but my understanding is that you only get to see it once. If you go with the Platinum or the Gold, you can see the spots over and over at timing good for you.
My 'spot' is in the dropdown menu on the pay per view, and labelled:
Londa Rolfing Not Your Average Sweatshirt Jacket.
Say - they forgot that 'h' in my last name - Rohlfing - but with an opportunity like this - what's an 'h'???
Again - thanks, Pfaff! What an opportunity - and even I enjoyed watching it, I gotta say. Kinda weird to see/hear yourself on the computer...AND, I know I"m re-focussing on those neck-firming exercises!!!

Say - if you are one of the first 3 people to write me to tell me what I say and have not DONE on my jacket as worn in the video, I'll reward your astuteness and attention with a FREE signed new Book: Creative Sweatshirt Jackets - Londa's Way.

Election night Fashion?

Politics aside - all I guess I can comment on that 'dress' that Michelle Obama selected for the Election Night acceptance speech is.....thanks for a wonderful new example of some extremely POOR design! TWO 'centers of interest' - and NOT in places that, I, as a lady, would want to draw attention. Besides that - TWO, not the design-wise 1 or 3, but 2!!!
For me, the ultimate thing I teach is that I want to wear the clothes, the goal being that the clothes flatter ME. THAT dress certainly 'wore' her, if you know what I mean. What did you see? Her or the dress? I saw - only that dress!!!

Ughhhhhhh..... and I'm not alone in my sentiments. I'm just hoping that she finds some new designers with some good training before she starts being my 'First Lady'.

Houston Quilt Show Ramblins'

FINALLY back from the Houston where my friend, Glenda and I manned booths at both Quilt Market (wholesale) & Festival (retail)!!! On the road on Monday, 11/3 I got a call inviting me to come on up to the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo in Minneapolis to sub for another teacher who had a family medical emergency...so, with the van all loaded anyway - why not?!? Sew.....after one night in my own bed (loving on my cats who desparately missed me during my 2 week absence), I took off again - but this time with my wonderful hubby for my helper! Yea!!!!!
The management of those shows is amazingly wonderful, and I had a great time. I taught my 'wing-it' version of Basic Sweatshirt Jacket fitting - which turned out to be such a wonderful one hour class, that I'm adding that to my class offerings as I travel. Same goes with "Embellishment"- another new one. God works in mysterious ways, He does, He does!

FINALLY home then late last Sunday night to 2 VERY desparate and starving felines - who have hardly left my side day and night. I think I'm caught up on orders, and rested...lots of work, but all-in-all VERY exciting. Looking now at travels for next year already. Always find those listed on the front of my website. Houston brought bookings from two more stores in Florida for February. This Illinoisan says "Twist my arm!"

Some photos from Houston...








The 'store' on the left...





Helpers Extraordinairre: Glenda on the right - my helper who traveled with me and was both great help AND company, and Pat in the middle - our Houston new friend who helped out at the booth, giving us both a chance to have some 'shopping' time ourselves! My wonderful little sister also drove up from Austin to help on Friday - ALWAYS appreciated!
On Halloween, across from us in the booth all about Singer Featherweight machines - we were treated to these characters - how original! Another past helper, Darlene, sent me this link: http://planetpatchwork.com/travel/houston08.htm saying to scroll down to read what a quilt shop owner posted about my offerings at the market. Another picture of yours truly - in my 'Promised' Jacket. Click there and scroll down to read it for yourself.

Visit to Chloe Dao's Lot 8 Boutique

What fun! While here in Houston - on our day of fun between the wholesale market (where I had my first ever booth to sell my Creative Sweatshirt Jacket books, patterns) and the Houston Quilt Festival (retail extravaganza), my associate Glenda and I took in not only 2 wonderful fabric 'heavens', but around the corner from the first one we found LOT 8 - Chloe Dao's boutique. That is Chloe - as winner of one season of Project Runway! What a delight to have her sister, Sydney, help us - personally! She showed us all around and shared generously about learning to sew from their Mother, showing us detail on the new line for Fall, etc. In this picture of me with the mannequins at the shop, I'm wearing a silk charmeuse top (backless pretty much) that Sydney showed us as one of the favorite of Choe's designs. Their Mother had her own alterations shop - and retired now to do the sewing for Chloe's line along with another of the sisters. Another lady who helps do the sewing - I wish I could sit at her elbow because she does the most wondeful LITTLE double-turned little hems on all the silk...and it is not any of the numberous sewing techniques that I have learned.

Chloe has gone very geometric for her fall line. See the skirt I'm holding above in the picture with Sydney. The grey is a tiny bias grey silk piping in the geometric line. I asked about what kind of interfacing was used - and she said fusible - of a weight that gave the needed body. The insides were always of china silk, and absolutely flawless! All in all we were both amazed at the reasonable pricing on the garments for a designer boutique of this calilbre. If I really loved a garment and it fit - I would have no qualms about actually considering purchasing it. AND, I'm quite 'dutch' with my hard-earned $! Here's the back of that little skirt - I'm showing off the little pleats at the back of the skirt.

Another picture here - I'm 'embedded' in the display - modeling an intriguing backless silk top that featured VERY big kimono sleeves. Honestly - if it weren't backless, I imagine it would be hanging here in my motel room waiting to go home to wear at holiday parties!

The rings on this coat - are covered completely in fabric - bias I'm sure. This idea WILL end up on a Creative Sweatshirt Jacket, I'm sure. Then...I'll probably name that pattern Chloe. Snydney's friendliness and generosity in allowing us to take pictures was truly amazing!!! I met Chloe in Michigan last year at the American Sewing Expo at the Designer Challenge. I asked her how they could ever make garments that quickly - and she answered that the insides were SO unfinished, that we would find it hard to believe.


Chloe's line can't be called just 'Chloe' because of the objections of some designer by the same name. So her new line will be named Dao Chloe Dao - at least that's what this brain remembers. Her original garments in the boutique had the label in them "Lot 8" - which stands for the 8 sisters in the family. How cool is that?




The rest of the day found us at Universal Fabrics around the corner - where I started my 'hunt' for important fabrics for the upcoming wedding in our family. I found a luscious printed and beaded silk chiffon for my dress, samples for my daughter for her gown and the bridesmaids. Sew much excitement! At the other store - High Fashion Fabrics - where Chloe's sister told us to go - Glenda made some 'investments' in cottons, while I explored the rows and rows and rows of lovely solid fabrics in every possible color in every wonderful fabric. I have NEVER seen such a selection! Finding the coordinating fabric for my prized silk chiffon print was not hard at all here! And, a few more 1/8 yard cuts of samples to show my daughter. Truly a heavenly day for 2 sewing and fashion enthusiasts!

I REALLY admire Huckabee

I caught - for the first time last night - Huckabee on FoxNews - it was 10 pm CST here in Illinois. My hubby and I both liked (and rooted) for him during the Republican primaries. He seems down-to-earth, honest, 'real', wise, quick-witted, truthful, and just 'one of us' in my humble opinion. I pray that he stays around - keeps speaking up, and that we see him even more in the forefront - and hopefully our next Republican candidate for President.

New Jacket completed for Houston

Back from the Original Sewing & QuiltingExpo in St.Charles, IL. Terri from Indianapolis was great help, and we had a blast. I felt the need this week for some 'sanity sewing' (before attacking the Halloween costume for grandson Cole) so after playing with the idea of cutting the Italian Trim down in width - about half of original - and liking the look, I proceeded to transform the lovely brown Bamboo/Lycra and Sillk Tweed I bought at the American Sewing Expo in Novia few weeks ago. I've had in mind I needed to do an additional jacket from my Celebration pattern - and when I reprint it next time, I'll add this jacket on the front cover. Meanwhile, I've added the details for this jacket, including the circular flounce sleeve finish. SEW....if you have the Celebration Pattern Booklet - take another peek at the associated webpage!

So now down to the business of getting ready for my first real wholesale 'Market' at Houston.

I'm REAL excited about my first printed 'book' - featuring 5 of my jackets. It will retail for $18.95. It's still at the printer, but at least my part in it is all done. Whewwww.....it was a quick, but good decision I think. We'll see......

Novi Show Report - American Sewing Expo

Back and recovered from Novi Show - American Sewing Expo in Novi, Michigan - had a GREAT time and an amazing helper in Cyndi! Here's a picture of our booth..... you can see Ms Cyndi hard at work - and here's us together...

Thanks, Cyndi for your amazingly wonderful help!!!

Sue stopped by to show us her beautiful necklace - backed with a Tagua pendant... How about those for some nice Christmas gifts??!??

It was a wonderful show - and today Ineed to pack (after I dye up some more ribbon and put together some more jacket kits) for tomorrow night's travel to the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo in St.Charles, IL. My first time there - and so I'm always excited to see and be at a new place.

Say - the new 'toy' in our house is the Wii - thought we better join the new generation! We've never had a playstation or X box or any of that - and we added the Wii Fit this weekend. I put in over 30 minutes on it yesterday - and I'm SORE today - Yea! Also - in case you wanted to know, I'm 45 in physical age - balance, or something like that. Not bad for a 56 year old!

'

Fireproof - the Movie - Definitely a 10!

While at the Novi Sewing Show - my helper, Cyndi and I wanted to be sure to be part of the 'numbers' for the debut weekend of Fireproof - the movie made by the Sherwood Baptist Church, so even though pretty tired, on Saturday night - we made the movie our task. (Dinner of popcorn was pretty good too!)

Starring Kirk Cameron, we were both moved to tears - and profoundly affected by the wonderful message in this wholesome movie. As we left, several couples were standing in embrace and tears... honestly! I think if I'd been there with my hubby of 38 years - we would have been doing the same.
Yes - it has a strong Christian message - fine by me! But,it also has numerous well-written plot twists that make it just a wonderful, exciting (several heart-thumping, scarey scenes), moving story that reflects our modern society very, very honestly.
Go to the links from the home page for the movie. Especially, listen to some of the background fact at the Focus on the Family interview with the pastor of the Sherwood Baptist Church in Atlanta that made this movie. You won't believe the small budget they did this on - and that story alone, of how God kept showing up to meet their every need, is inspiring. Knowing all the background to why and how the movie was made will enrich your experience with this great movie. Go rent Flywheels and Facing the Giants as well - the other movies made by this church.

GO SEE IT! It will be a wonderful experience that, I pray, will affect your life and those you love. AND, your attendance will help send a message to Hollywood moguls that THIS is the type of entertainment that we deserve to have as a frequent choice.
From what I've read and learned, the militant Muslims would not be so ready to want to blow us off the face of the earth if they saw this type of morality here among Americans as the rule rather than the exception. Regrettably, the vulgar stuff that pervades our society - that we have come to allow as 'freedom' will be part of the end of just that - our freedom.

The Shack

Just finished reading The Shack by Wm. Paul Young. What a blessing to my life! I've never read a work of fiction with a highlighter in hand, but I did with this - and now will be going through it and studying and writing down the thoughts for my further examination with the Bible and in my own quiet times.

Listen to an interview with the author, who wrote this for his children...amazing! http://www.drewmarshall.ca/listen2008.html#080120

Even that link helped me learn of the Drewmarshall.ca website that appears to have lots of worthwhile programming I intend to listen to as I work here at home.

I'm not nearly anything seminary-type trained in God's Word, but I know how this fictional book opened my mind to 'see' things (life) from - perhaps - the view of God - Jesus - and the Holy Spirit.

Whether you are searching, a believer, whatever - I truly believe that God is using this book to reach us and teach us. Read it and go to God yourself to discern in HIS wisdom.

I'm even thinking of making this available at my website!

Singer Featherweight Sewing Machine Auction

I don't know about the rest of you, but as I sit here in the dry, beautiful prairie of central Illinois with no catastrophe upon me from hurricanes, rain, flooding, trains colliding, or serious, pressing health issue for those I love, I'm feeling just very lucky and much blessed! My heart goes out to any of you affected by Ike and all the bad weather. To raise funds to donate to the American Red Cross for disaster relief, I've decided to let go of this wonderful little Singer Featherweight Machine that I found at an auction this summer. Though I've always wanted one - my soul knows I really don't NEED it, and that I should use it to the benefit of others.
Sew... Here's the deal: I will sell this machine to the highest bidder - with careful shipping arranged between us and at the expense of the bidder. The Auction will END at 10 pm Central Standard Time - Monday, September 22, 2008. I will send a check to the American Red Cross for all funds raised over $350. A machine like this sold for $625. See Below.
You place your bid this way:
1. Go to this link: http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Store_id=398&page_id=23&Item_ID=6315
2. To 'Bid' - just put your bid in whole dollars (starting bid is $325) in the QUANTITY BOX
3. Check out - selecting 'FAX ORDER IN' for your payment method and submit your order
4. As 'bids' come in, I will update the current bid in the Description box.
5. If you have ANY questions, about the process, or the machine - just email or call me. Remember, the auction ends at 10 PM, Monday,September 22, 2008. I will be 'out' at a dental appointment most of Monday afternoon, so just know updates cannot be made from about 1 - 4 CST.
6. Please do not bid unless you intend to follow through with payment, which can be MC, Visa, Discover,or Pay Pal. Winner and I will determine safe shipping method, and shipping expense will be added to the winning bid.
I need to get this shipped out asap after the auction ends, as I leave for the Novi Show on Wednesday morning. If details can't be worked out before I leave, I will ship it after my return Sept. 30.

Super Condition 1951 Centennial Model Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine Serial number: AK090870 which, when I looked up this serial number online, is given the January 29, 1951 manufacture date. It is in a condition that I read about at this link: http://www.patented-antiques.com/Backpages/All_Archives/SEW_ARCHIVE/fw_SM.htm
As the expert at this site says: "it is in a condition that is 'sought after but rarely found." The one I'm comparing it to sold for $625.00... it is the Centennial Model Featherweight, commemorating Singer's "Century of Sewing Service" and it is marked with Singer's oval-shaped gold with blue outline commemorative plaque bearing the dates 1851-1951. This machine has been well taken care of. The black paint is pretty shiny, the gold decals are bright, and there is no evidence of the "fabric wear path" on the bed that so many of the Featherweights exhibit. There are some minor surface "pin marks" in the clear coat finish that you see when it is held up to the light. The machine has been oiled and lubricated in the appropriate places and is ready to display or to sew with. It came with a repair tag attached to the case. I tested it out - and it stitches a beautiful stitch and the motor runs strong and quiet. The case for this Featherweight is in excellent condition both inside and out and it is evident it was stored in a nice dry environment, but I also have to say that it 'smells like I remember my Grandma's house smelling'. This machine comes with the original instruction booklet which seems to me to be in perfect condition. The little Singer oil tube is included as well as the following attachments (which I had fun identifying from the instruction booklet!): Foot hemmer, Adjustable Hemmer, Multiple Slotted Binder, Edge-Stitcher, Gatherer Foot, Ruffler, Seam Gauge that screws in, 2 screw dr ivers, and 2 keys to the case. - this is ALL of the that are mentioned in the book!

This machine is a beauty---one of those that just does not come along very often.

New Crop of Jackets 'Birthed'

I don't know why - but a couple weeks before a show- I lay awake atnight creating the design for new jackets. Sew....here's the latest 'crop'. This first one features Chenille by the Inch -around both edges of the tape measure twill tape ribbon. You can't see any of the real detail, but it really is nice. Before 'fluffing' the chenille, I couched down a black yarn on the oatmeal color. I also cut back the neckline of this sweatshirt for a larger, face-framing neckline. I really like it, and hope it will fit Cyndi, my 'helper' at the upcoming Novi American Sewing Expo where I get to teach and sell.
The grey one was inspired by the awesome one-of-a-kind Crone Art fimo clay button at the neckline. I used the collar from Lois Ericson's Classy Coat pattern for the collar. I cut it wider, and then lined it with another fabric, and folded the top edge down. I also like the flattering line in the bodice that I created by just stitching a bias folded piece to the outside of the sweatshirt, and let it flop down - then couching a yarn along the edge to hold it down.

I REALLY love this bright raspberry jacket. I used one of the awesome Direct Reactive Dye sweatshirts from USA Comfort Color that I carry. This wonderful fabric became a member of my stash LAST year from the Fabric Gallery's booth at Novi...so I thought it made sense to get it into a jacket a year later. Sheesh - I realize now that the pink and black fabric on they grey sweatshirt and the pretty coral and grey on the jacket below were all 'adopted' from my friend, Mesee's booth last year at Novi. Visit her shop - it is spectacular! I actually used the same collar pattern on this jacket that I used onthe grey jacket - just cut wider. It is a single layer collar - frayed on the edge, and about 1/2" in from the edge - I've 'stopped' the fraying with couched down black yarn. That's another great Crone Art button for the focal point. I have convinced them to continue to do awesome all black great BIG buttons, so know I would always have some of those you could email me to order... londa@londas-sewing.com

This Grey jacket - well, I just wish I'd cut that spectacular fabric on the bias for this collar! Oh well - I'm probably harder on myself than those Project Runway judges would be! The yarn couched along the custom dyed Bias Cut Silk Ribbon has a hint of silver metallic in it - thus the addition of Swarovski Crystals in the paisleys on the collar.

This black/silver jacket puts to use a spectacular piece of home dec fabric I picked up at the Puyallup American Sewing & Stitchery Expo last March. Also - note the LARGE JUMBO snaps. I like the face-framing wide collar. I'm just seeing that alot in RTW - and like how this style helps make the focus the WEARER. Also - you can't see it, but I created a facing of the little polka dot that peeks out at the hemline of this jacket.

The green jacket started out a 2XL! I keep preaching that you are buying 'fabric and matching ribbing' - but people just don't want to believe me. Applying the 'pattern' from REFINED to raise the shoulder armscye to the proper place and shape the jacket, PLUS a big dart all the way up the center back really shaped this 'fabric' into a great fit for my newest 'Christmas' jacket. There are 2 batiks played together: one a poinsettia, and the other a stylized Christmas Tree in this jacket. I trapunto stitched around these motifs onthe upper chest area and back yoke by dropping my feed dogs and using smoke YLI monofilament thread. A scrap of burgundy red wool crepe cut into 3/4" strips on the bias and layered 2 deep with a black and red yarn twisted together and couched down the center define the vertical line and 'pulls it all together'. This is all in my pattern Transformed. All I did to make the neckline stand up was to attach it in a 1:1 ratio. I ran out of ribbing at the shoulder line of the other side - so I grabbed another old ribbing and covered it with fabric. Darned if I didn't cut it too short - so I had to creatively add in a piece at the right shoulder area. Challenges - challenges. But, in sewing, I AM IN CONTROL! That's a pocket at the lower right, by the way.

Time for a walk in this beautiful Indian Summer weather...

10 Reasons Skirts are Better Than Pants

I asked and got her immediate permission to share Erin's enchanting reasons why

Skirts Are Better Than Pants

[*for UK readers, please substitute "trousers" for "pants" throughout. Or just giggle, I don't care.]
1. Drawing your pants legs back from someone in disgust as you pass them is insufficiently scornful.
2. Studies have shown that wearing skirts is 90% effective in preventing VPL (visible panty line).
3. Ditto for "plumber's butt," "whale tail," and "camel toe."
4. Ruffles on a skirt can be over-the-top glamorous. Ruffles on pants are only acceptable if your name is Mary, and a little lamb follows you everywhere you go.
5. It is impossible to smuggle someone in -- or out -- of prison, a masked ball, a hotel room, etc. by hiding them under your pants. (Plus, there is no such thing as "hooppants."
6. When you strap a gun to your thigh in pants, you lose the element of surprise.
7. You don't have to have skirts hemmed differently for flats or heels.
8. Twirling in a pair of pants results in 87% less happiness.
9. The word "skirt" has both a singular and a plural form, usable by all ("I am wearing a skirt today." "Instantly Mrs. Bagnet put some pins into her mouth, and began pinning up her skirts all round, a little higher than the level of her grey cloak.") The word "pants" has a singular than can only be used by fashion-industry people ("Designers are showing a high-waisted, wide-legged pant for fall").
10. Skirt blowing up, revealing underthings? Sexy. Pants falling down, revealing underthings? Humiliating.

Sarah Palin must be wise to all this! Yea.......

Wisdom

"To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did." When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. Concentrate on this sentence... "The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you." Something good will happen to you today; something that you have been waiting to hear.

Londa 'published' in magazine and new book

Exciting Days - my work has recently been published!







Sweatshirts with a Twist is a book edited by the editor of Clotilde's Sew Savvy Magazine, Julie Johnson. Published by House of White Birches, this book offers "12 Sensational Sweatshirt Redesigns - Changing the Ordinary Into the Extraordinary!" My own 'Fuchsia Fun' Jacket from my Refined pattern is included. I am sure honored to be invited to contribute to this book!




At just $14.95, this books is a great value with complete jacket directions from myself and 11 other designers. Order it from me HERE.

Creative Needle Magazine editor Ann Henderson caught up with me in Houston last year at the Quilt Festival. We go 'way' back to my heirloom sewing days in the late 80's and early 90's, when I wrote a column for about a year in that wonderful fine sewing magazine. Ann challenged me to design a sweatshirt for a child with "Londa flair". My genre doesn't include any typical appliques, so here is what I came up with - as found in my Promised Pattern. I love this full page column photo of the jacket. Kits for this little jacket are available ... click HERE to see the options and place your order. In the same magazine issue(just released October 2008 issue that features charming Christmas and holiday garments, gifts, and decor items), is my article on Sewing with Knits.

I'm sure you can order this great Creative Needle Magazine at their website: http://www.creativeneedlemag.com/

Donation Given to Help Guatemalen Women

September 5, 2008

Dear Penny,
Enclosed is my donation for your wonderful work in Guatemala. It would honor my customers and myself if you would use it to buy 2 sewing machines, and the rest put towards teacher training.
I look forward to a prosperous fall season of retail sewing shows and even a wholesale market in Houston the end of October with my Creative Sweatshirt Jacket patterns. Just last night, I was working on editing my patterns so that they cite Miracles in Action as the charity I support with a tithe of my pattern sales, so that the information about this will be accurate as they are reprinted.
Please continue to send update information. If you could both email it to me and post it as a Comment at my Blog to which I am posting this letter – http://www.londascreativesewingchatter.blogspot.com/ – that would be a wonderful way to keep my customers informed.
Your wonderful humanitarian efforts are a supreme example of how we should all live. I look forward to the day when I ‘retire’ and can follow in your footsteps. For now, please accept my contribution on behalf of my sewing customers and myself in the name of Jesus.

In Him,
Londa Rohlfing
Londa’s Creative Threads

Customers - read more and see pictures about Penny's great work at this link: http://miraclesinaction.org/pb/wp_30f3a390/wp_30f3a390.html

After learning to sew at a Miracles in Action and Mayan Families Workshop, this graduate carries home her sewing machine. She can now earn an income from the home while caring for her children.

LUV, LUV the newest THREADS Magazine!

The November 2008 (WHY oh WHY are the months on magazines SEW far in the future?) THREADS arrived yesterday - kept me awake last night! This is the BESTEST issue I've seen in awhile. I devoured most of it - but can't wait to settle down and REALLY digest "Behind the Seams at Chado Ralph Rucci" with Claire Shaeffer and "Gussets in Facings" by Kenneth King. Even though what I am sewing these days is about as far from those fashions as possible, I love vicariously enjoying the process by reading the how-to's.



The New Look 6632 jacket as reviewed on page 22 is the perfect inspiration for a chenille by the inch and tape measure twill tape embellishment placement on the current sweatshirt transformation I'm at work on. I'll post pictures soon .



AND - page 66 - note those JUMBO SNAPS on Marcy Tilton's jacket. I CARRY those ! Just figured out they are not on my site - I'll fix that pronto and come back and add the link...
I love the way the side on the back of the overlap still make a 'statement' by the way in which they are stitched on! Another idea for a jacket of mine...the next one 'up' on my design table, no doubt.



In fact, I carry LOTS of what is in this magazine - here's a listing...

Bobbin Buddies - pg. 14
Bobbin Winder - pg. 26
Vegetable Ivory (Tagua Nut) Buttons - pg. 32
Acid Free Tissue Wrap and Storage Box- pg. 42
Iron Off - pg. 57
African Buttons - pg.73
Jumbo Snaps - pg. 66 as seen on Marcy's jacket
Neopague and Lumiere Paint - Starter Kit - pg. 66
coming any day ...
Stitch Dissolve Distort - book pg. 18
Studio Kat purse patterns - pg. 88
Oliver+S children' patterns - pg. 14

YEAH! A Pro-Life, REAL Woman --- who wears a SKIRT!

Happy tears - as a woman, as a strong Christian whose pro-life stance guides all my life and political decisions, as a Mom, as one with a deep concern and love for the disabled, I am thrilled beyond measure with McCain's decision to select Sarah Palen as his VP running mate. Wow! This woman has guts - and she is a down-to-earth woman that I do surely identify with. Plus all that - she has the good sense to honor her female gender by wearing a suit with a SKIRT! I hope she keeps it up during the tough days ahead. I've been praying daily for this election, and today I surely see God's hand!

Fine Pant Finishing Details

These are my favorite Chico's pants. I bought 3 pair last December on sale - for about $15! Anyway - LOVE these fine details - and you can do it too. Note in first picture the ribbon around the bottom of the invisible side zipper. Also - that it is stitched to the seam allowance at the bottom.

Invisible zips can really scratch your body - especially at the top edge. Do an inside tab like you see here. This is all on the INSIDE of the pnt. Covers the zip coil and tab at the top and hold it altogether on the body nicely.
Note where my left forefinger is pointing...this is stitching THROUGH the end of the elastic that has been stretched a bit to INTERFACE the facing. The elastic extends to about the same distance from the side around the back of my body.
Here, I'm showing how the 1 1/2" elastic has been butted right up to the top edge of the facing seam on the INSIDE of the facing - and stretched a bit. It is serged along with the facing edge to finish, and topstitched to the facing only along the top edge. It appears to be stretched just a tad all along - just a gently tug, firm pressure as you apply it. See next picture...taken from inside the pant - showing the slight 'gather' on the facing.

This teatment makes for a wonderful firm, flat, comfy waistband - no matter WHERE on your body you place it! Mine hits just a smidge below the belly button. Young ones want it lower - us old gals KNOW where our real waist is, eh?