Bending The Rules

    Have you guys seen Amy Karol’s (of Angry Chicken) new book? I preordered it on Amazon awhile back, and it just arrived this week:

    Amy Karol’s “Bend The Rules Sewing”

    I love love love this sewing book. It has a ton of fun projects, and here are just a few to wet your palate (click on thumbnail for a close-up):

    The Zip Pouch Simple Tote Heidi Headband The No Cash Wallet Artsy Clutch Charming Handbag Pleated Beauty Handbag Clever Coasters Amazing Tea Towel Apron Apron Pockets Simple Bib Scalloped Baby Blanket

    Of course, these are just some of the pictures of the projects I really liked. There are also pillow patterns, an easy quilt, table runners, placemats, teapot cozy, dog collars, you name it. Lots of fun stuff. And not only does it have fun and easy patterns, a good third of this book has tutorials for beginning sewers - from basic tools to fabric know-how to basic hand sewing techniques. The way she writes is very organized, detailed, and practical. LOVE it.

    ***

    And on a totally different note, I’ve made my very first few pieces of jewelry (with real pearls and swarovski crystals). I proudly showed my hubby my creations, and he launched into a whole discussion on how I can totally make money from this and he proceeded to give me a very detailed business plan and approach. I took a step back and said, WHOA there fella, this is just my first couple of bracelets/earrings! Who knows what will happen? But I’m flattered that he supports my crafts/creativity 110%, and thinks I have alot of talent.

    Pearl bracelet & earrings set

    Of course, I have to practice learning how to photography jewelry properly. It’s so much harder than photographing a simple knit or sewing project! No handheld snapshots, this definately needs a tripod, as my hand isn’t steady enough.


    9 Comments so far
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    awesome awesome. can’t wait to see your other pieces =9

    I really need to get my act together and purchase a sewing machine already!! There are so many cool new sewing books out. This one is really cute! Thanks for sharing. And Ruth, your bracelet and earrings are absolutely gorgeous!

    Woo Hoo! Thanks for the scans - I’ve been so curious about this book! it looks like something fun to buy, if only I didn’t buy so many books this month…
    As for the Jewelry: I’m with hubby :) You can totally make money from this, but take my advice and don’t do it until you feel (almost) totally comfortable about it. Starting your own business can be difficult, but it’s worth it IMO. Try different lighting on Jewelry too - even a flashlight can make a huge difference!

    ok now i have to get this book! :)

    your jewelry looks goood! just make a lightbox and get a tripod. :) That will help you take AWESOME jewelry pics!!

    Your hubby is right. You pieces are awesome.

    Amy

    wah, so beautiful! =)

    Hmm..
    Nice beads design!
    U remind me I should take out my beads to do some earings~!
    Keep it up!

    Wow…you did that?! It’s gorgeous. You could totally sell stuff like that!

    Your husband is right, your crafty goodness could be a nice business! Why don’t you try it just a little? Take a few of your creations to an exclusive shop and see if they would buy from you.

    BTW, I’m thinking of having the knitting gals over to the new house once we’ve moved in. Probably won’t be until the fall but the weather will still be nice.



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