Looking Forward

2008 is almost over and I am looking forward to 2009, like it seems many of you are. I'm getting a collective sense that 2008 was a tough year for many and that there is a sense of hope for 2009. I, too, had some rough spots in 2008, but like we used to say of the cockroaches when I worked in college food service: What doesn't kill you makes you stronger! With that in mind, I'm looking forward to 2009.

What do I have in mind regarding sewing in 2009? As usual, I have way more ideas than time to sew. In general, I have some things I'd like to try or do. If I'm able to accomplish them, that would be wonderful. If I don't that is fine, too.

Besides the usual sewing for myself and family (and no, I don't plan on getting more garments made in 2009 than I did in 2008!), here are some specific things I have in mind for 2009:

• finish Bluebird of Happiness!
  
• to try basic tambour beading - I have an old Threads article on this and since I've taught myself many other fiber crafts, why not?
• to make a bra, or two or three - I already have patterns and some of the supplies. Besides, I have a really cool idea to integrate long line bras into my art garment gowns and making bras would be another good skill to have in my repertoire.
• to knit a sweater - I can knit, I learned how when I was 7 years old and have made quite a few very nice sweaters, but just haven't knitted anything recently. Maybe I'll make socks - they're quicker projects. Who knows? We'll see how that works out.
• to make two more large art garment projects - I have a running list of ideas (ten ideas at the moment, until I get more!), but I haven't made a final decision yet. I'm thinking of making two of the following: Cherry Blossom, Jackie O, Green with Envy, or Fall Splendor. These have all percolated long enough, except for Green with Envy whose details have started to fall into place just this week.

I think that should do it. Have a happy and prosperous New Year!

Parting Shot: For Now and For the Fall. Yes, this is the time to get those bargains on fall fabrics that are now being put into clearance! My daughter and I picked up the burgundy and grey pieces of corduroy for less than $2.00 per yard for school clothes for next fall. We'll need to fill in a few items that will either be too small or too worn out, so she picked these fabrics out for skirts, dresses or jumpers. The teal fabric is a brushed mystery knit (you know how that fabric from Jo-ann's is!) that will make a great quick turtleneck for her to wear now.