Today's inquiries - Decisions in Gown Alterations

Yesterday I received a few different requests to alter gowns for upcoming proms and weddings.  I find it to be an interesting contrast of values when it comes to hiring a seamstress.

My first client was a mom whos daughter came to me last year needing overnight work done because the seamstress she originally hired decided she couldn't work on the dress because she was inexperienced in the sequin type work.  I remember the day she called panicked and frustrated with a seamstress who didn't call until the very last minute sharing she could not complete the job.

Yesterday her mom called, sharing how I was able to turn her negative experience of working with a seamstress into a positive one.  At a young age her daughter discovered the need to be pro-active in her search for someone she can trust.  This young client, knowing that alterations were a probable possibility for this years prom, decided to ask a friend about the dress she wore last year.  Her friend was happy to sell her gown, providing my client an expensive dress at the fraction of the cost.  In doing so, she saved resources so that the cost of alteration work would fit comfortably into her budget.  Fortunately, the other benefit of purchasing this gown from a friend similar in size could possibly result in less costly alteration work.

My 2nd request came from a woman who is new in the area, yet is in an upcoming, elegant wedding as a bridesmaid, asking what the cost and turn-around time would be.  In sharing with her that I don't provide estimates over the phone, but that my average bridesmaid/prom style dresses with minimal layers run between $150 - $200, also noting that some are less with very few alteration needs, while others needing extensive work cost more.  Right now my turn-around is approximately 3 weeks on bridesmaids, yet as my rack fills up, this will be extended.  After sharing the basic information, she booked with the understanding of my inability to provide an exact estimate over the phone and acceptance of my turn-around schedule.

Both are examples of customers who desire their gowns to fit well for both of their occasions, and although price will always be a factor for all consumers, these clients were  first looking for quality service.  My first client, knowing how quickly my schedule fills for the prom season, already satisfied with previous work I did for them, called soon in the season to avoid rush fees for waiting until the last minute, while also booking for both her daughters.  My 2nd customer was looking for a basic idea of what costs could be and a turn-around time.  Yet both understood the value of my time, for the work they wanted, in order to make their gowns fit them well.

My final call was from someone who has never needed someone to alter her gowns or clothing.  She found her dream wedding dress on Ebay for $50.00.  Personally, I think it's a great deal even if reasonable alterations are needed.  The only downside was that it came in too small for her with the request that I add small pieces of fabric to expand the sides.  Unfortunately, providing gussets into a gown can sometimes be a tedious and costly chore, as it requires lining fabric as well as matching gown fabric, along with determining how to apply them to fit the style of the garment as well as create a proper fit.  It is something I have done in the past, but is usually quite costly.  Not something I recommend unless there are no other options.

Sight unseen, if the client was really set on this gown, would require a paid consult of her taking the time to visit so we could discuss the options available.  The decision:  Since she only spent $50 on the dress, the cost for the consult along with alterations would cost more than she paid for the dress.  She decided she would rather buy a new gown.

The positive side of her decision is that she could probably find another dress that would fit her better, with less alteration work.  The down side is that her larger size will limit what she will be able to find off the rack, with only a month before her wedding.  If she is able to find a dress that will reasonably fit, she will still incur the cost of alterations, which can sometimes still cost more than the cost of a dress (most especially if found on sale) along with rush fees.  I hope she is blessed in finding a dress that fits her perfectly.

What I have discovered is that those who have never had the need for a seamstress for alteration or custom sewing services, find the cost to be a little overwhelming.  Some gowns need minimal work, so the cost comes under the norm.  Yet, sight unseen, I will let people know the averages of gowns I have worked on over the past year.  Excessive alterations and custom work will always increase the cost, many times matching the cost of the gown or more.  If their gown was purchased on sale, or clearance, they forget that a seamstress cannot provide their services to match the cost of their dress, most especially a $50-$100 gown, unless the alteration is mild.

My goal in sharing this information is to educate.  Seamstresses who run a business, even if done at home, are looking to provide you a quality service that you will be pleased with.  Quality service comes with experience and the ability to take the necessary time to evaluate your needs, listen to your goals, and take the time to properly evaluate the construction to determine the time involved in make those necessary alterations and/or added custom services.

Don't call a seamstress expecting to pay $25 - $50 for gown alterations.  The same holds true for hems on pants, jeans and slacks....long gone are the days when jean hems cost $5.00.  There's more to alteration work then putting the item on the machine and stitching in place.

Almost like going to the mechanic for your car inspection.  Sometimes the minor repair you want to have done is not so minor.  Until they see your car up on the lift, they will not be able to definitively share what your estimate of labor and parts will be.  The same holds true to your garment alteration and custom sewing needs.

Laura

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Re-fashioned Harley Davidson Overalls to Jeans

Taking the opportunity to refashion overalls brought my was a delight.

This particular customer decided that it was time to rid her wardrobe of her favorite pair of overalls.  In doing so, she made the decision the create jeans so that she could continue to wear them. 

It was clear that the pants still fit her well, so there was no need to alter the waist.  In removing the bib I was able to create a fun pair of jeans that she will be able to continue to enjoy.

Nothing better than meeting the goals on my clients.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

http://www.facebook.com/DavinaDawnSewingSpecialties

Reupholstering & Drapes

I don't normally take on upholstery projects, such as recovering a couch.  Most of my home decor work consists of cushion recovering, pillow work, curtains & drapes.  Yet, as I was trying to see how I could make my workspace more pleasant for me to work in as well as my clients who arrive for fittings, I kept my eye open for a couch that would fit within the space we had.

In doing so, a friend provided us a love seat that needed some TLC, that both my husband and I decided would be worth the time and investment.  We were correct.

Spending time with my husband on a sewing project proved to be something that we both found to be rewarding.  Please keep in mind, that my husband did all the staple & pin removing, repaired all frame issues while utilizing his woodworking skills, re-stuffed the frame where needed, then added the selected fabric to the frame.

My sewing skills recovered the cushions& create the couch skirts for David to add to the finished frame.  I recovered a set of pillows that went with a chair we have now decided needs to be reupholstered as well.

The curtains that were made, are simple drapes made of a suede upholstery fabric.

Friends have asked if upholstery will be added to my services.  Personally, I will continue to recover cushions & pillows for customers as well as create curtains and drapes.  I will take on the small projects, such as ottoman's & stools.  But, I am not personally interested in large upholstery work, but I would open my schedule and work with my husband if he decides this is something he is interested in pursuing. 

Currently we have a chair that is now ready for his skills as well as a couch he is contemplating on working on for some friends.  Time will tell if this is something that will become a side job for him.

Would I do this again?  Spending time with my husband, working on something that requires patience, and attention to detail?  I most certainly would.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/
http://www.facebook.com/DavinaDawnSewingSpecialties

Purchasing Quality Garments

Today, with the economy the way it is, it is even more important for people to spend their hard-earned money more wisely. Coupons, sales, clearance racks and more provide the quick/fix satisfaction of saying one has saved on their clothing budget. It also helps to take advantage of these savings when you know you will have to spend more resources to have your clothing altered due to your physical stature and unique fitting needs.


Those that know me know my frugal and conservative nature. It's not about being cheap, but making sure the money spent will be used wisely. There are many ways in which one can acquire quality garments at affordable prices yet when you shop be cautious of how manufacturers are able to provide you those low prices.

Many of us shop at the department stores for casual wear. There is nothing wrong with finding good deals that fit within your budget at these stores. But there are many things to take into consideration before grabbing those $5 deals.

Things to be cautious about:

Fabrics are thinner, resulting in the need to wear multiple layers. The style to wear two layer tank tops, or two t-shirts, etc. was not so manufacturers could "cheapen" their fabrics, but rather a fun style to enjoy. I noticed this at a store I really enjoyed shopping at in the past, as I was shopping for my daughter at Christmas time. I found a fun T-shirt that both my husband and I spotted five racks into the store. We walked over to it, and when I picked it up, I could see the light through the other side. The only reason I purchased it, was that I decided I would be getting her new tank tops as well, and would put one with this particular shirt, plus it was marked down substantially.

Another area that manufacturer's are saving money are in the manufacturing of jeans. Take a look at your belt loops. Are your belts curling on you? It could be the result of two missing belt-loops on the back. What manufacturers are doing, is instead of providing 7 - 9 beltloops, they have decreased them to five. Those who are thin probably won't even notice this, but many will once their belts start to curl on them. I am finding that I am adding belt loops to men’s jeans lately due to this problem. They used to provide two on each side in the front near the zipper and now there is only one on each side. And, there used to be two in the back between the side loops and center loop. Instead, the back still has it's center loop, but the side ones are moved back slightly past the side seams.

A quality garment will have all the grain going one way. If the vertical grain is not going straight up and down, then you will end up with an item that not look well after the first washing. The cross-grain should run horizontal to the vertical grain.

A quality garment will have more buttons and are securely sewn on. And many of the quality garments have an extra 1-2 buttons "just in case". They used to be sewn to the inside of garments, which they no longer do. If you have to bring things to your seamstress to be altered, ask him/her if they would stitch the extra button(s) to the inside of the garment in the event you need them in the future.

Make sure you try the new blouse on. You want to make sure that buttons close at the appropriate places, versus open things up for the world to see.

Quality garments will also use metal or high quality plastic zippers (some quality plastic zippers used in clothing are sold at places such as Lands End, LL Bean, etc.). Take the time to move the zipper up and down a few times to make sure it is in working order and not getting caught in the garment fabric. Also, check the stitching where the zipper is. I recently had to reinforce the stitching on a gown that still had its tags on it. My client only tried it on two times, and I was taking it in, so it was obvious it was a manufacturing defect.

Check your seams...are they sewn straight? Are they secure? You can check the seams by gently tugging on the garment to see if it is securely sewn together. You will know if it is not, as it will pull apart too much.

Do you enjoy wearing plaids and stripes? Make sure they line up at the seams. A little off, most people will not even notice, but there are cases where the plaids are obviously not matched correctly. Some might find that I'm being a little particular here. That's okay. If you are comfortable with the plaids and stripes not really lining up, I won't pick on you.

Sometimes hemlines on pants are not the same length. This is okay when you have one leg shorter than the other does (yes, I have customers where I have to alter one pant leg due to this problem), but it's not okay when you are purchasing a new pair of pants. Take the pants and fold in half and check to see if the hems match up? Great! If not, put them back on the rack and look for another pair. NOTE: When purchasing 2nd hand at thrift stores, make sure you try them on. People get their clothing altered, and sometimes the size on the garment is not necessarily the size you wear.

With skirts, jackets, blouses, and other items, do the same. Fold the garment in half to make sure the sides are symmetrical.

Time for the "Scrunch test". Take the fabric and scrunch it in your hands. Does it fall back and continue to hold its shape well? Great! Does it leave heavy wrinkles? How much do you enjoy ironing? If it wrinkles a lot or feels flimsy, you might not consider it worth purchasing. Fabrics such as wool should bounce quickly back, which would indicate its resistance to wrinkling.

Trims and beading you will want to check in a variety of areas on the garment to make sure they are securely in place. One loose thread could mean there are a variety of loose threads.

Patch pockets should lie firmly against the garment and not fall away leaving a gap between the garment and pocket fabric.

With linings you will want to make sure that they don't hang lower then the hem of the garment (pant, skirt, sleeves and jacket hems).

The goal in shopping wisely is to have longer lasting garments as well as keep alterations to a minimum. Yes, many will still need to have their clothing altered, but a poorly made item with inferior fabric is not worth the cost.

Alteration tips: Pre-wash all garments before you bring them to your seamstress/tailor to remove all shrinkage. 100% cottons could stand to use two washings (two times through the dryer as well) to make sure the shrinkage is completely out.

Also, some seamstress will charge for pre-washing or washing smoke-filled garments, or possibly refuse to do the work for you.

As you shop, consider purchasing classic styles that never go out of style. These items will last a long time if well made and taken care of. With a watchful eye, you can find great buys!

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~
Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Serving Those Who Serve Our Country

As part of my business of serving others through my sewing skills I am asked to frequently alter and place service patches for many service men and women.  This is an amazing group of people who depend on me to provide a service that is exact. 

Some are new and others have been serving our country for many years.  But what they all have in common is a great deal of pride and dedication to their service to our country.  They show respect to their uniform as they bring it to me for their specific alteration need.  They have an expectation that when they leave their uniform in my hands, that it will be done well and to the specifications of their branch of service.

In return, I find that I am honored to serve these men and women who risk their lives to protect me.  I find that I am more aware of my work as I measure and re-measure the placement of their service bars and stripes, before actually securing them to their uniforms.  I find that I have an additional element of pride as I serve them.

When they arrive for pick-up, they inspect their uniform, as it represents who they are and what they stand for.  My hope is that they leave totally satisfied in my work, knowing that they can wear their uniform with the pride that they carry within them. 

To those who serve our country, thank you for allowing me the priviledge of serving you with my sewing skills.  It is a honor to serve you in this capacity.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

A Delighted Bride and Mom

One of the many joys I am blessed with, is when a bride requests something unique for her dress.  Most often my job will be to take in the bodice or the waist along with the hem.  Sometimes I will be asked to add some trim, remove a flower and reshape the shirt, or simply remove the sleeves.  But my most recent job was different than most, yet provided the most fullfillment  It was taking something old and creating something new for the bride.

The bride's mother saved her own wedding dress, in hopes that one day her daughter would wear it at her own wedding.  What a joy it must have been when her daughter said she wanted to wear it.  The only thing that would be different would be that she wanted her dress to be restyled to a more modern look.

Those of us who got married in the last 70's through early 80's remember the high collars and puffy sleeves, and other Gunne sax style dresses.  The dress that was to be restyled had the high collar that zipped up in the back, which the bride decided needed a little updating.  The bride provided a picture from a bridal magazine, sharing what she wanted her dress to look like.  To provide this look, I removed the collar and netting that was on the neck, shorten the zipper creating a "V" shape in the back, and reapply the original lace that was on the original dress.  Both the bride and myself were excited to see that would could use all that was on the original dress without having to use anything new.

The work was tedious, yet such a delight.  I love to create unique items, including refashioning any garment of clothing when I have the opportunity.  The easiest part of my job was to understand my clients desire, which she was able to clearly communicate  her wish.  She knew what she wanted, had a picture to help share her idea's, and I was able to move forward with her request.

The dress is now complete.  The bride arrived with her mom today for the final fitting.  And the most full-filling part of my job was when the bride smiled and shared how happy she was, along with her mom sharing that I did "magic" to her dress.

There is nothing more satisfying than a job well done, where the client leaves with a huge smile of delight.

Enjoy the after pictures!

Wedding Alterations

A wedding is to be such a special time in a brides life. With so much planning, one would only hope that the Bride would not only enjoy the preparation, but also her special day. So often the bride has so much to do, that the stress builds up.

There is so much joy when I can work with a bride, creating for her the final look for her wedding gown. In some cases it begins with my making her dress, but most often it comes from altering it to her specific needs. My goal, for every bride that comes my way, is to make the adjustments that she would like to her specifications. Sometimes it is just a hem, other times it might just be creating a bustle, and there are times where there are many adjustments that need to be made.

Since alterations are an added expense, I share with the bride that what is most important is to have the proper undergarments she plans on wearing with her when she comes for her first fitting. This is extremely important when deciding how much something may need to be taken in. The proper undergarment will not show when you wear your dress and will make your dress look seamless and you feel beautiful.

There are times when a dress doesn't need a special undergarment. One bride came my way, wanting me to take her dress out because it seemed too tight. After looking at the dress and seeing that it already had all the support the dress needed, I asked her to take off the undergarment and put the dress on without it. When I returned to the room, she was smiling ear-to-ear, seeing how that one simple change made her dress fit her to perfection. She was sold an item that was unnecessary when they sold her the dress. This is an unfortunate thing that happens to brides, because in some cases the undergarment is needed, yet in some cases it is not. This was a rush order request that ended up being a simple consult, saving the bride rush fees in addition to the alteration costs that she originally wanted, plus, she was able to return the undergarment since it still had the tags on it. She and her fiancé was extremely happy realizing how much money I had saved them.

The other important item to have with her is her shoes. Sometimes a bride has still not found that perfect pair, so I recommend that she bring a pair of shoes, in the height that she plans on wearing. This helps in making sure we get the right hem length if I'm hemming, but also if we are adding a bustle, it is important to have the right floor length. Depending upon the number of alterations that might be needed and their budget, some brides will purchase heels to accommodate the length of the dress. My only caution here would be "comfort".

One way some brides save and bring someone old into their wedding, is to take their mother's or grandmother's dress and have it refashioned for themselves. If they can wear the dress, but want a few things tweaked to make it their own and more modern, it is an option that only embraces the alteration costs.

There are so many options available to a bride. My job is to listen to what the bride desires and make the necessary adjustments to make her feel beautiful on her special day.

Here's the brides: May your day be yours, the way you desire, to love and to cherish, your man of the hour.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - Custom Seamstress
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/

Thankfulness

There is so much to be thankful for.

We all face trials in our lives, challenges that make us want to give up at times, yet we also face opportunities to make choices that can make a difference.

I have been blessed with a husband who has been my best friend for over 30 years. Married for over 29 years and a friendship that started a few years prior. In addition I have three daughters who will always be a sweet treasure that I am so very grateful for.

Nine years ago my business started as something to do part-time to help support the family while I stayed home to care for and homeschool our daughters.

It was a challenging decision to stay home, homeschool and start my business, but it proved to be well worth it. There were many looking for what I had to offer, not only locally but also internationally.

This past spring I made the decision, with the full support of my husband, to take my business from the part-time level to full-time. It was a decision that I do not regret and find that the Lord has blessed.

I not only create doll clothing, as I did when I first started in 2000, but I also enjoy making the infant/toddler blankets, therapy bags, Christmas stockings, fleece wraps, and more for my web-site. In addition, I have been blessed to take care of other's needs, outside our family, with their alteration, mending, and custom sewing needs.

For some, it might seem like a tedious chore. For me, it's a gift of serving others.

May you encounter joy during this time where our nation celebrates Thanksgiving. May you find joy in your ability to serve others in the work that you do.
And thank you to the many men and women who serve our country, out of a personal desire to serve and protect.

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura - seamstress

Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/
Twitter http://twitter.com/DavinaDawnSewin
Facebook http://bit.ly/3MNj8o

Replacing you Coat Lining

Replacing your Coat Lining

It is important to be sure when you decide to replace your coat lining, that you are getting a quality job done.

It is common for one to purchase a quality coat that later on needs the lining replaced. The outer shell is in great condition, but due to the consistent wear'n tear, the lining begins to thin.

You can price around to see who is the cheapest and go that route, but make sure you are getting not only quality workmanship, but also a quality lining fabric that will last more than one or two seasons.

There are many variables that go into replacing a coat lining. The cost to replace your lining might cause sticker shock, because in some cases it will seem as if you are re-purchasing your coat new again. What you are paying for is the time involved in taking out your old lining, replacing shoulder pads, creating new pattern pieces from old, worn and stretched out pieces that are being removed, etc. Then, the time involved in adding back in the new lining. This is not something that can be done in a quick hour or two.

When my clients come to me for their coat linings, I discuss with them their expectations. Do they want the inside lapel pocket still (some want to save costs so they remove it)? Do they need any pockets replaced? Do they want something different about your coat lining...some have hems sewn right into the coat, where other's hang loose, and the customer decides to have the new one hang loose. Do they have a kick pleat in the back? Are there other mending needs necessary for their coat? Do they want me to mend things if they are discovered once the replacement begins? Do buttons need to be replaced?

So, as you can see, there is more than just bringing it in and replacing the lining. If you have a coat that you really love, that you can't replace because you can't find that classic look anymore, then you might decide it is well worth the investment. If it was an expensive coat, that is still in great condition, except for the lining, it is well worth the investment. Leather coat owners have found it to be well worth the investment because they have worn their coat to the point where it is a part of them.

Whatever your choice, whether to reline or not, is something you need to decide after you weigh the cost of the work with the value of your coat, whether it can be replaced, or what it means to you.

To have this service done by Laura of Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties is generally done for local customers. But, this service is also provided for customers anywhere within the USA, for those who are willing to ship their coat and pay for return shipment.

Stay warm

~ Putting Thread to Fabric ~

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

Sewing for Thumbelina

Sometimes I relish the time I acquire that allows me the freedom to work on things that I haven't had a chance to. One of the things I enjoy making are things for my website. I get to choose the fabric, the notions, the pattern, and the choice. There is something relaxing about making something for fun.

Thumbelina was a doll that I adored when I was a young girl. My mother made me give it away when she felt I was too old to hang onto it. So, who would have thought I would eventually be making doll clothing when my girls were young? Who would have thought that Thumbelina would have returned into my life.

I do have a Thumblina, that I acquired on Ebay a few years back. I search high and low for one that was in good shape and still movable when her knob was turned.

So, it was a pleasure to make a nightgown to include on my site that fit Thumbelina specifically. Thumbelina looks beautiful in this new gown. It doesn't have lace, as I wanted to provide a simple gown first. More outfits will be added to the site as I can make the time to create for her size.

This nightgown is made with 100% cotton flannel, has a two button hole closure, and a cute little pink bow button on the bodice. The flannel is a cute flannel that has baby toys throughout. The bodice is fully lined. All seams are finished preventing the opportunity for fraying. Elastic on the wrists of the sleeves, and folded-over hems for the sleeves and hem of skirt. As always, looking to provide a quality product for those seeking quality craftsmanship. Check out Thumbelina's page at http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/dollthumbelina.htm to see the different views.

Those who enjoy collecting dolls, or have a special girl in your life with a body size of Thumbelina, will enjoy this page.

Have a delightful and restful evening.

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties

Giving Life to the Frayed Edges of Towels

Today I was catching up with the laundry. The benefit of having children is that they help with the chores. The disadvantage is that they don't tell you when things need mending. So, when I take over this particular chore, due to school schedules, I discover what needs mending.

So while I was washing/folding towels and jeans, I discovered again how towels that might be just over a year to two years old, still had plenty of life in them, yet the edges were coming apart. You know how it is, where the threads start to fray away from the edges, so you begin cutting them each time you wash them because there really isn't anything wrong with the towels. Seeing this was the issue with a few washcloths and a couple bath towels, I brought them over to my serger and took care of the frayed mess.

What I do to preserve the life of the towels, so we don't need to cut them down into rags long before they need to, is serge the edges. I have done this to my towels and washclothes for quite a few years. If I get new towels as a Christmas gift, I just put them aside as our summer pool towels. They can also be used for the kids bathroom. I have not had any future issues with the towels until they are ready for the rag bin. And, the nice thing in doing this, is that edges remain the same for many future uses.

I do provide this service to local/nationwide customers who have quality towels, with plenty of life left, yet are frustrated having to cut the threads all the time from washer/dryer wear. They don't look like store-bought towels with the hemmed edges, but they stop fraying, no longer getting caught up in the washer or tied up in the laundry, and look nice and neat.

For myself, I use whatever thread I have in the serger as all I'm looking for is a quick fix. For customers who want a color to closely match their towels, I will do my best with the limited serger threads I have in stock.

I hope that you find this to be a helpful tip, or a service that you might consider taking advantage of the next time you discover your towels have too many threads when washing.

Have a delightful day filled with blessings,

Laura
Davina Dawn Sewing Specialties
http://www.davinadawnsewing.com

Colors of Fall & Fisherman's Lap quilt

Good morning. I have decided to add a blog for my website, to provide an area where I can share thoughts, new products and provide an avenue for customers to leave comments and ask questions.

October is like a new beginning. Here in NH we begin our days with a new tapestry of color as we experience God's beauty throughout the hours of each day. The colors change so quickly, and look brilliant whether the day brings rays of warmth and sunshine or rain. It's an amazing time of year.

Last night I worked on a new lap quilt. It is called "Gone Fishin' ". Initially I was planning a simple infant/toddler quilt, but as I put the fabrics together, I realized that this particular quilt would be a beautiful gift for someone who enjoys fishing. Whether you have a child that likes to go fishing with their daddy, a hubby or wife who would love to have a lightweight quilt to keep the chill at bay, whether on the couch or in the car. Another person I thought of was a grandfather, who might reside in a long-term health facility, that would really appreciate keeping their legs from being chilled.

The quilt is made from a large print fish fabric that has beautiful colors. With the thought of creating a quilt around this piece of fabric, I went shopping to see what I could find to compliment it. In doing so, I found that it was really difficult to find the perfect blue that would match the blue water colors in the initial print. Then I found this beautiful fabric I choose as the backing, that has fishing creels, reels, fishing poles, etc, with a neutral tan background. Taking this into account, I brought the backing together with the colors in the main fabric on the front, and used a brown print that pulls the quilt together. For the filling, I did not put a heavy polyfil or warm'n natural fill, but rather used ecology cloth, that actually makes it lightweight, yet heavy enough to keep the chill off. With this idea, the quilt can be used in many climates, including FL where many from NH seem to travel to in the winter, cool months.

I added pictures of the above quilt to my page where one can view other quilts that are for infants/toddlers http://www.davinadawnsewing.com/quilts.htm

With the cool autumn weather, I am thinking of warm items to create for family gifts as well as gift items for my website.

I do hope that today brings you much joy, filled with God's beauty and love.