Time for a Luau

Swapping aprons again!

Excited about swapping another apron with a fellow apron lover. This swap, with it's Aloha/Beach theme,inspired me to create this Luau ensemble. It is complete with all the Tuckin treats, and will be off to the post office this week.

In case this puts you in the mood for a Luah, set up the Tiki Bar, put on your Mumu and have at it.

Aloha!

Found Joy

I thought I'd never see as much as a swatch of this fabric ever again!

Once again, mindless Net surfing yielded a long lost friend. I'd purchased a small bit years before I'd decided to make aprons and eventually made one of the first aprons from this

fabric and gave it to a friend. Who knew I'd have to search every big commercial shop, to every mom & pop darkened treasure trove, to an across the continent online search for days with fingers crossed. No such luck. I still couldn't find it. I'd given up, and held tightly to the small piece that was left over from the apron I'd made. I protected it and thought about what I could make out of it; a scarf, tissue cozy, hair tie, pot holder, etc. But I couldn't decide, so I just held on to it.

Until the other day, there it was! This print seemed to just pop up on my computer screen. I immediately hit the "add to cart" button and asked for six yards or more. Sadly, the return message was that only one yard existed...

"I'll take it!"

When my one yard arrived, I was sure then that I would make it into what would be my "go to" apron....like I don't already have a house full of those. I could have been more creative with it, but I just wanted to get it sewn into something that would grow old with me. So here it is,

a conventional "no fuss" apron that will last and last. It's the small things, I tell ya.

Can You Love 'em Too Much?

Took me days to post it on my website because I was afraid it would sell. The keyboard didn't even get cool before it was in an apron lover's cart. Hope she enjoys it as much as I enjoyed making it and later, just looking at it.

If you have a craft that you love, I know you get what I'm saying. You purchase supplies that make you want to get to work on them. Every piece of the sewer's stash has been carefully selected because he or she had a connection with it. Sometimes a purchase is made with the consumer in mind, but most often because the piece(s) give you a good feeling. You want to be a part of the creative process. If you're in the business of sharing with others, you just hope someone will love it too.

Aprons are sew much fun! And I'll say it again...you've gotta think outside of the kitchen to add to the joy of wearing an apron.

Guess for this fabric, I'll have to make one like it for myself. Don't you just adore a cute apron? http://www.etsy.com/shop/puddintanes

Summer Fun Apron Giveaway Winner!

Thanks loads for posting. There will be more apron giveaways, so hang around like drying laundry and the next one could be yours.

Jane Bartlett- Symes
email your mailing address to me at cynthia@puddintanes.com and your Summer Fun Apron will be on the way!

A Treasured Apron Lover's Find

Now sure, there'd be the man I love, our kitties, and family photos among the treasures I'd surely want to save from any disaster. Yet, I have a current heartfelt treasure that just makes me feel sew very, very happy.

Now I proudly include myself among those who believe that you don't save the good stuff! You invite your guests to wipe their hands on your set of matching, painstakingly hand-embroidered hand towels, serve pizza and chips on the good china, play tea party with your niece drinking Kool-Aid from the Swarovski wine glasses, etc.

However, I do wish you'd walk barefoot on the white carpet.






Though I can't even imagine how I was lucky enough to find this precious little set.

They're just perfect! And nope, you've guessed it... I don't dare eat on them. But make an apron of Dupioni silk and vintage lace, and wear it to wash the dishes? You betcha!

Summer Fun Apron Giveaway

Hey there!

It's time to give away another apron. Here's a punch of summer fun that will fit just about anyone. It ties at the neckline as well as the waist, and of course...it has two large pockets.

All you have to do is post a comment below. One person will be selected this Tuesday night to receive this gift.

So start posting your comments.
You have until Tuesday, June 21 at 6:00 PM (pst).

Let's start having some summer fun!

Summer Aloha Apron Swap

I'm doing it again! Why not? It was sew much fun. Aloha!

Remembering Puddin' Tane

When life persists it's ebbs and flows, holding tightly to prevent tipping can be the challenge. Listen to the messages that seem to be hidden among the whistle of the winds. There's a breeze calling out the answers to your questions, seaming* to whisper through the lines and betwixt the clothespin grip of refuge.

Simply said... when you feel a slip, remember you. I've opened my portfolio of handmade aprons, caressed my carefully collected stash of apron fabrics, revisited my napkins of random thoughts, oiled the machines, turned up the music, and I am reminded of me.

So I asked myself...

What's Your Name?

and with a smile, my answer was...

Puddin' Tane! Ask me again, and I'll tell you the same.

I DO love aprons. Especially those with big pockets. So I think I'll get to the making of them. Hope to see you there.

*Sure it was with-in-tension. Ask one who sews. She or he, will know.

Sewing Cafes: The Next Big Thing? | Look

I would love to open a Sewing Cafe. What fun would that be?

"I Don't Really Wear Aprons..."

"I don't really wear aprons, but I do have a collection of them."  That's what she said as she grabbed this one to add to her collection.

What is it about these domestic garments?  

I think you know....they're nostalgic, creative garments that look adorable on you, and often remind you of a time we've left behind.  Not to mention the simple practical appropriateness of an apron. 

Yet, it appears we have chosen to recreate that time seemingly lost, with this article of clothing that perfectly accompanies the art of cooking a fabulous meal.  The two go together like grits and butter.

I choose to wear an apron when I'm working around the house, and especially in the kitchen, because it just seems the appropriate thing to do.  Feeling I've dressed the part helps make the task a bit more interesting and sometimes even more tolerable.  

There are times I slip into a pair of heels to not only ramp up my cuteness factor, but when I pump up the music volume, an aerobic session is the perfect dopamine level booster!

So, do you actually wear your apron when working, or do you just love that retro look and simply collect aprons?  Do you dare wear your apron outdoors as part of your outfit?  Do you give them as gifts but never wear them yourself? 

 This look is awe-apron inspiring!  

Summer is coming, and I'm dreaming of different designs and ways to wear aprons outside of the kitchen.  If you have a collection of aprons, take a look and consider showing it off outdoors.

She Likes It!

She likes it!  She likes it!  I think she really likes it!  

Here's Susan wearing the Cobbler Apron I made for her as my 
FLIRTY APRON SWAP 15 Partner. 
She looks so cute in it.  

Now I want one  :-)

What fun!

Cobbler and Smock Aprons

A design not so easy to find these days, is the adored Cobbler Apron.  

Also fashioned in an earlier era, it seemed to be the "go to" apron for all day wear.  Two or three large pockets are a must, and when they are in contrast to the bodice of the apron, 

it becomes even more of an eye catcher.  

Full coverage and can be completely closed in the back, one button, or tied.  

I really love this design.  Could it be the large pockets?  You can find me strutting mine outdoors.  I love to wear them to places like amusement parks, swap meets, quick grocery store runs...okay, all of the time.  Especially when I know that extra pockets will be helpful because I'm opting out of carrying a handbag.  Pop on a tank underneath and you're ready for a day of comfort, and practicality rolled into one retro apron.   

www.puddintanes.etsy.com 

I've added a few and will be creating more.

Apron Swap

Shawnee's Flirty Apron Swap

Finished my apron for the Flirty Apron Swap, and today I received the perfect gift from the apron lover who had my name.

Here's the adorable apron from Sarah C!  I love it!  

Not only is it well-made and in one of my favorite color combos, it goes perfect with my kitchen, AND it's reversible! 

This apron is going to get a lot of wear and tear.  My initials being CKE, Sarah selected the perfect Tuckins; Cups, Knee socks, and Easter candy...sugar junkie that I am. Along with a sweet card, included was a cute little fridge note pad that I certainly need for my ever-fading memory. 

My first Apron Swap has been a blast!  If you love aprons like we do, find an apron swap (I'd suggest the above link to Shawnee's Apron Swap) and join in the fun!

JUMP

During a brisk power walk through the park today, I came across a hopscotch drawing in the mist of the morning's dew. I loved it! If I could have just seen my iPOD, I would have taken a photo. This photo was found on the Internet.

Not only did childhood memories surface, but I loved how imperfect the drawing was. This one's just a little too perfect for this intended analogy. I imagined the young ones who'd drawn it, and saw them playing the game. What carefree lives... where the most important decision at the moment was how to balance on one foot while remaining within the lines.

I stood there and stared at the crooked lines and considered the task. I would have jumped it, except I was simply in awe of it. I wanted it to remain the way I saw it. I imagined the final game and didn't want to disturb the replay in my mind's movie. The one where they negotiated turns, and then hurried to get through the final jump just before being called into the house for dinner.

I saw my little girl self. The three-braided girl who lives within me.

So carefree and open to what life held for her. Today it all seems it was so important, yet still so unimportant. It was really just about the fun of it all.

As I walked beyond this art piece, I compared that life to today's. Sometimes still wondering if I can balance on one foot without going outside of the designated lines. Although, I admit that I often make the decision to intentionally jump outside of the lines, or just tap one with my foot to see what'll happen. Ha! Chances...

So within the mist, I grabbed hold to my memories, smiled and took a deep breath, picked up the pace, and exhaled for the journey I've taken thus far. Still balancing, sometimes stepping on the lines. And, sometimes taking a great big jump outside the lines. Just JUMP!

Katrina Fries!

Congratulations to Katrina Fries for winning the Puddin' Tane's ...an apron boutique Spring Cleaning Apron!

Katrina, please email your shipping address to cynthia@puddintanes.com, and it's on the way to you.

An unusual Easter for us. However, fun. Shopped for a new washer/dryer.

We shared our memories of past holidays and how they seem to have changed for us, as we drove around the town searching for a new washer/dryer.

We landed at Lowe's, where I finally decided on a set. What an overwhelming selection! Do we get; top load, front load, electric, gas, color, size, stackable, side-by-side? Whew!

At the checkout counter, the young man, who was apparently feeling the holiday change too said, "Seems no one takes holidays serious anymore." His take was expressed based on my question about the opening/closing hours for the day. "We'll be open until 6:00 P.M."

Is there less focus on holidays than in the past? Memory tells me that when we were young children holidays were THE most important events in our lives. Also, I recall that most stores were closed or if open, had very minimal hours. We would lavish our time together and any thought about shopping would be dismissed by the reminder that the stores would be closed for the holiday.

Thank goodness for memories though, they get us through. We can pull them from our reserve brain categories and share with others, who will no doubt, have some of their own. Once again, it ties our apron strings together.

I selected a front load washer because I've never had one before and wanted the experience. This particular model was chosen partly because of the smooth curves and bubble design (yes, cute is important to me). However, the list of features and functions are impressive enough to suit our needs too. Energy efficient! That was a must have. I'm looking forward to delivery and my first wash 'n dry.

Well, just like shopping for an appliance on Easter Sunday was new, last year we had a family brunch and later the earth shook...truly. We had a pretty good sized earthquake!

No shakin' this year though! Well, maybe except for shaking down the calories (Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing) we'd eaten.

Holidays are certainly whatever we make them. Just enjoy what was, and what is.

Easter Tradition and The Last Easter Bunny

What's your Easter tradition? Please share...

Every holiday my father was sure to give my mother and me a stuffed animal, candy, cards, flowers, etc. Once he had passed on, I promised myself to keep up that tradition with my mother. So every holiday's tradition must include a gift and a card for my mother. We were the only two females in the family and I guess my father thought it was only appropriate to treat us a little bit more special. Although treating others special was truly his forte.

The last Easter present that I recall from my father was a massive, standing Easter Bunny that he'd carefully placed directly in front of my bed so it would be the first thing I'd see on Easter Sunday.

I recall waking up and smiling, and feeling so full of joy in the knowing that this was yet another loving gift from my daddy. I grabbed it and took it to the kitchen to say thank you, and to see what my mother got. There I'd find my father in his favorite place and cooking another whopper of a breakfast for his family. The aroma of a big breakfast, and an even bigger dinner would always linger throughout the holiday.

One thing tradition can do for us is keep us rooted in family, whatever that might mean for us. I'm thankful that the traditions that my parents passed along to us, bring happy memories and a sense of sharing with, and caring for, others. Sometimes it is a chore to keep up with tradition, I must admit. However, I'm usually happy that I'd kept up with what I've learned.

Our family is now separated by distance and that makes my immediate family my mother, my sweetie and myself. I do my best to keep things festive for the three of us.

So on this rainy Easter Sunday (don't recall ever having one of those before), we three have shared a prayer, eaten a big breakfast, laughed and gifted my mother with an Easter card and blooming Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily).

Later we'll gather around the table again for another prayer and another massive meal....Yup! We eat lots.

So no matter what you've defined as your tradition, find the joy in it and appreciate that it exists. Keeping tradition alive is important to the basic of our life's needs, no matter how challenging it may sometimes be to keep them alive.

Happy Easter to you all!

Spring Cleaning Apron Winner!

Congratulations to Katrina Fries for winning the Puddin' Tane's ...an apron boutique Spring Cleaning Apron!

Thank you all for following Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams.

Spring Cleaning Apron Giveaway!

Well now, the first 15 followers of Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams have been placed in this festive little Easter box, and a winner will be selected first thing Saturday morning (April 23). The winner will be contacted and his/her name posted on this blog Saturday morning.

Good luck to all, and thank you sew much for following Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams!

Apronology

Volume 1

A fan of the Stampington & Company publications, when I learned about the first issue of Apronology I gasped with excitement!  "Tell everyone....my obsession has just been validated!"   I immediately signed up for the issue to hit my front porch as soon as possible.  


When it arrived, I caressed the pages as I carefully perused each one.  "Wow!  This is exciting!  This is wonderful to see all of the apron lovers and designers who are keeping the craft of sewing alive, as well as the nostalgia of the apron."  I took it to work the next day to allow those who wondered about my sanity (as an apron-obsessed), to show that I was not alone.  I felt like I was back in elementary school and it was that joyous day of Show and Tell.  


The first issue is now sold out, yet there have been two more since published that are just as entertaining for the apron lover and crafter in general.  

Volume 2

Apronology requests apron subnissions in every issue and I've promised myself that I'd submit a special apron.  This time I'm going for it!  I've got the fabric selected (of course I'll probably change my mind at least once) and I have until September to submit my apron according to the guidelines.Can my creation sit proudly along with the other brilliant designs?  Don't know, but looking forward to the challenge.  It'll just be big fun.  I'll let you know how things progress, and if you make aprons too, share your love with me and if you haven't already submitted an apron to Apronology, consider it.  We can share our journey.

Volume 3

Check out all of the other wonderful publications produced by Stampington & Company.  If you're a crafter of any sort, I bet you'll find at least one you'll love.  http://www.stampington.com/html/apronology_volume3.html

Spring Cleaning Apron Giveaway!

Win this Puddin' Tane's Spring Cleaning Apron! 

It's yours 

if you are selected as 1 of the first 15 to follow 

Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams 

by Friday, April 22nd at 11:00PM.  

One winner will be chosen from the first 15 followers.   http://puddindreamsnapronseams.blogspot.com/2011/04/spring-cleaning-giveaway-1st-15.html#links click Follow.  

Apron Value $28.   

Flirty Apron Swap 15

While searching for more and more ways to share aprons with others, and of course make more, I happened upon Shawnee's Flirty Apron Swap.  http://flirtyapronswap.blogspot.com/  I actually tried to participate once before and had to bow out because I became ill.

Sew excited to have at it, I've already completed my first swap apron and shipped it off!  


What fun it is to make an apron based on the guidelines of the swap, add the tuckins (additional items to make swapping even more fun), and view all of the before and after photos of all the swappers... all apron lovers too!  The fun and excitement of apron-loving doesn't get a whole lot better.


Soon I'll post a photo of the apron I made, but the surprise is a big part of swapping, so I'll wait until others have posted.  Thanks to Shawnee and her sponsors for this fun opportunity to share the creativity and love of aprons. 

Sunni's Prom Dress

Made a promise to make a prom dress for any of my girlfriends who have a daughter.  That's if they'd like me to make it, of course.  Well, Sunni is the final prom princess for me.  She's a gorgeous young woman who'll be attending her prom in May this year.  

Sunni is about to enter college with a journalism major.  She's a gifted poet, who's decided on a sultry gold, strapless dress with a deep heart-shaped neckline and hemline that will certainly show off her long, toned legs.


Today is her first fitting, and I'm excited to see how she'll look in it...although it's really at the very first stages of a prom dress.


Adding the boning and fitting it to her frame will be the most fun for this seamstress.

Measuring Tape Stilettos @Craftzine.com blog

Measuring Tape Stilettos @Craftzine.com blog

Too, too cute for one who sews!  Thanks to my friend Towanda for turning me on to these hip stilettos that certainly measure up...get it?  Let me know if you get them.  

Rrribet!

It was in my hands!  I placed it gently on the counter (so I thought), made one slight turn and it was on the floor... shattered into pieces.  A lovely vintage "frog" vase in a delicate yellow ceramic.

Searching thrift shops, swap meets, ebay and more, still have not placed such a treasure in my hands again.  However, would it be safe there?

Vintage flower frog vases were creatively designed to help with floral arranging. Sure, there are some modern utilitarian designs available, but they don't compare to those that might have been designed in the 1940s.  

Today, I found this frog on www.ebay.com and I've placed an offer.  It's only the frog, and would fit atop a vase but not like the one I adored.  It would certainly fit well within my decor.  Wish me luck!

If you are a collector of vintage ceramic vases and have seen a full frog vase, will you clue me in?   Sure would rrribet for it.  Thanks

Spring Cleaning Giveaway!

(1st 15 Followers Are Eligible)

This fun Spring Cleaning apron is going to one of the first 15 new followers of

Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams.

Follow and you could be the one to have this apron,

along with a matching gift, shipped to your home.
Deadline to Enter is Friday, April 22nd, 11:00PM

Gingham Lives Happily!

Puddin' Tane's ...an apron boutique

www.puddintanes.etsy.com

A Fabric Stash Gone Wild

A garment designer, crafter or fabric lover looks at fabric and sees possibilities. For years, I saw possibility in every piece of fabric that crossed my path...and for the most part, I bought it. I've collected enough fabric to seriously open a fabric store. My fabrics traveled with me from California to DC, to Louisiana, to Virginia and back to California.

Now that I've placed my focus on aprons and anything that resembles an apron, all of the other fabric is still and lonely. So I finally got the courage to donate loads of it to my local chapter of the American Sewing Guild. Wow! What a revelation and fabric hoarder's relief. Yes, I said the "H" word.

One day, I walked into one of the rooms that we'd dedicated to hold some of my fabric and I actually began to cry. "Who needs all of this fabric?" Where was I? I was lost in dreams...dreams of  "one day" and didn't even realize it.

Sew, it's done! Still a lovely stash, but no more excess yardage. Now my donated fabrics will be used for the dreams and possibilities that others see. Whew!

Landed On Planet Blog

Welcome to Puddin' Dreams 'n Apron Seams!

Blogging for apron seams and other dreams. A place to share apron news, recipes, household tips, lifestyle events, and anything else that seems noteworthy for crafters and apron lovers.

I've taken the trip to Planet Blog. Seems I always have a lot to say, but now that I've taken up residence on this planet, I'm struggling with what I'd like to share. So please be patient. Once I've finished unpacking, before you know it this will be home!

Cynthia Ennis

Designer/Crafter

www.puddintanes.etsy.com