In A Nutshell

for the birthday boy

I think I bought the Tea Party playsuit pattern so that I could make Phoenix a playsuit for his second birthday, and I just got around to making it last night... for his fourth. It worked up pretty quickly, and am really pleased with how straight forward the pattern directions are. Although, I have to admit I am really frustrated with the puckering right in front. The directions warned me of this, although once it was done, it was done. I know better than to rip it apart and rework, because usually that just exacerbates the problem. Next time I will be a bit more mindful and work more slowly. 

Any how, I can look past the puckering and be satisfied with the fact that it's actually done. I wasn't planning on having it turn out looking froggy like, but I'm very glad it did. 

You may remember the green animal print from this project, which is still holding up. We got the most use out of that bathrobe last summer. I would have Phoenix wear it as a cover up before and after his swim lessons. It was so much more convenient than having him get out of his clothes and then back in them half wet. 

Listening to: In the Morning, by: Junior Boys 

when all else fails

  
I copied this idea straight from Heather of Beauty That Moves. I have been wanting to do an overhaul of our finances for a while now, and I know from experience that when all else fails, the 'envelope' system works. Well, envelopes get all torn and nasty, and I thought the idea of making fabric pouches was a fantastic one.
  

  
In an attempt to put the kibosh on our spending, I decided to make my own rather than purchase them from her shop. However, if you think these could work for you and you're not a sewer, you can purchase them from her here.

I used this tutorial for making a lined zippered pouch with 6" zippers, and added a 1.5" strip of linen to the front. I embroidered the letters instead of stamping them, and am really happy with they way they turned out.

What are some of the ways that help you keep your budget in check?

play silks

"We have so much time and so little to do. Strike that, reverse it."
- Roald Dahl Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Dying play silks was one of those ideas that I kept stewing over. I would turn the thought over and over in my head, all the while keeping it on the back burner. After all, there had been so much to do. However, a certain little someone has a birthday coming up. I knew I needed to get crackin'.

So, play silks I made. Oh, what fun that was. I can think of lots of little children that would like to have these. must. make. more. 

he needs a name

   

Phoenix's birthday isn't until June, but I've been trying to get a head start on the toy making. Last year I was able to make everything for him by hand, but I practically gave myself carpal tunnel in the process. I usually do everything at the last minute, so my crochet hook was like an extra appendage for a couple of days there. I'm all for not doing that again.

I've been wanting to try my hand at making a Waldorf / Steiner doll for quite some time. I'm so glad I gave it a shot. It was a very fulfilling experience and it was a lot of fun to see how the doll's personality unfolded through the whole process. From what I read, you're not really supposed to make the doll look like the child they are intended for, but uh, I sort of ignored that part... except for the blue hair maybe.

Any how, I need a name for this little guy because I am stumped. Well, not completely stumped. I have an idea but I want to see if you have any better ones. All of Phoenix's toys are named for what they are. For example the monkey is named "Monkey." I want this doll to be much more than a monkey. I want him to have a personal connection with my sweet boy, so a good name is in order. I'd like to go with something short and easily spelled. Thoughts?

Also, I'll be making some accessories for him too. A backpack is a must, and I'm thinking a beanie and a baby sling to carry him around in too.

Update: Thanks to all of you for your wonderful suggestions! I've decided to name him Kip. Short, sweet, and easy to spell.

soft nesting boxes pattern

   

I've been working on a little something for y'all. (Okay, and for my kids too.) 

   

   

What do you think?

   

Oh, hello Mr. Peanut. What are you doing in there? 

These nesting (and stackable!) boxes are a great open ended toy for children. My boys are getting a lot of enjoyment out of them. They also make great catchalls. I have the small sized one in my bathroom holding most of my makeup. Mental note: I think these would be great for using in bathroom drawers too, to help keep things organized. They're super easy and addictive to make.

Time is up on the free download. You can now purchase the 8 page tutorial from my Etsy shop: The Cookie Jar. In this tutorial, there are also measurements for an extra big one that isn't shown - just in case you'd like to make a purple one for a complete rainbow. 

Thanks for your interest!
 

Update: Okaaaay. I hate to close the comments up because they've all been so nice ;), but the giveaway is over. According to random.org, the magic number today is 57, so that means Beth is the lucky winner. Thanks to everyone for participating!

For those of you who have asked and are curious, you can find the pattern for Mr. Peanut in the book: Last Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts. That Mr. Peanut: he's such a cutie pie.