Stash Contest #3

I purchased this fabric in 2004 from a discount store for a simple skirt project I had in mind. I did not realize at the time (on my lunch break) what I really had and what should be made from it. So now that the mystery is solved, I now offer scrubs in a variety of colors, generic and specialty prints.

Pix Request Updated

OK everyone. Here are the pictures for the Stash Contest posts #1 & #2. The first is a purple two piece double-knit ensemble and ready for my spring wardrobe. The second is a fushia/black three piece ensemble appropriate for any business day wardrobe. Both ensembles required all the basics. But what I am most proud of are the set sleeves. This is one technique that has been a trouble area. I am glad to say that this technique has been mastered using pin easing. Thanks again to Georgeous Things for your excellent tutorial.

REFLECTION - From Then to Now

As I commuted to work today on the train, my MP3 player started one of my oldies by Curtis Mayfield - New World Order. As some of you may know, Curtis and Marvin had a prolific vision regarding our people and what challenges we face on a day-to-day basis. These two men strongly emphasized the plight of a BLACK man. Let's take a look at some of the verses from that song:

Darkness no longer, a child is born
Mother shed tears of joy as baby test his lungs...
Another victim born out here in the hood
And based on statistics it really ain't all good...
The hunt is on and brother you're the prey
Serving time in jail, it just ain't the way...
Operation influx and it's on the way
We've just marched a million plus the other day...
O, what a fulfillment of prophecy...
It's okay to cry, go ahead and cry
'Cause Jesus wept but hope and faith he kept...
..."Cause people, the answer to your prayers are here...
There's no need to worry, the times dictate a plan
Mother Earth's given birth to a brand new man
Sister I know you're misunderstood
But hold on to your man, 'cause the future looks good
Beware of the lies and false prophecies...
You must be merciful my frien to obtain the same
So if you break the chain don't pass the blame
We should say unto all and I'll say it again
It's not just to win, shake a hand, make a friend...

Although this is just a sampling of the song itself, the words are very profound. The black man and the black family have been split way too long - it is time for a new day. The black family has been played on television in two very contrasting ways - Good Times and The Cosby show. Each show revealed the best and worst of circumstances that plague us. I say it is time for a new day.

The Obama family has moved into the White House and are front and center for all to see. They are a strong knit family and they bring the black family to the forefront as well. However, this time, it is LIVE, up close, personal. This is a real family with real issues, working them out as it should be. I say "a new day" has come.

In closing, the chorus line reads:
A new world order, a brand new day. A change of mind for the human race.
It's a new day, it's a new day.
Yes, Lord, it's a new day.

Request for Pix

OK, I will get my DH to take the pictures and post them as soon as I can. The new picture of me was done by him as well. R, I will give him your compliment.

The Stash Contest - Post #2

Hello, out there. The three piece suit is finished. The fabric is a poly mix; can't remember all the fibers since I have had it a while (2004 to be exact). The color/print is a fushia/black houndstooth. Pieces were jacket w/o the ties for closure, stand-up collar (my first and I am proud), sleeveless top (in black poly) and skirt. Pattern is Simplicity 5311. I must say, that I really surprised myself with the second try at pin-easing sleeves. In the words of the late, James Brown:

"I FEEL GOOD".

Can't stop me now ya'll. I am on a roll!!!

The Stash Contest by PR

OK everyone! I finished my first project on Wednesday night. Thursday I got up and traced the size I need for a three-piece. Last night the skirt was completed except for the finishing on the wasteband and the hem.

NOTE: All pictures will post at the end of the contest on February 28. All posts for the patterns will be on PR as part of the contest.

As for excitement. I am very excited. I found a tutorial on easing sleeves. I was so happy with the first sleeve that I couldn't wait to get the second one in. Set sleeves, here I come. No more puckers now.