tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91466377947521174422024-03-13T15:12:21.044-07:00Project: This Mom's WaySeamstress mom's journey toward fashion design successprojectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-1199463061910284982013-01-17T13:34:00.000-08:002013-01-17T13:38:47.400-08:00For Shame.../ How Chicago WentWhere have I been? The truth is that I have been so busy - I'm too busy now to be writing this, but there you are. Or here I am.<br />
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What happened? You ask. Did I get to Chicago? Did I make it on The Fashion Star? Here are my pictures:<br />
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Waiting Outside</div>
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In the holding area (Thanks Emily - my new friend in line from Iowa - for taking the pic!)</div>
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Inside Macy's - going to the 7th floor</div>
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Getting the racks ready before going in.</div>
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This was a two print chiffon dress featured in my audition. A lot of designers had real model with them. I'm thinking of bringing children with me next time. ;)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-278DZqCBy7o/UPhlQDmO5oI/AAAAAAAAAM0/nqv_aH8ZUCE/s1600/satinpants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-278DZqCBy7o/UPhlQDmO5oI/AAAAAAAAAM0/nqv_aH8ZUCE/s320/satinpants.jpg" width="166" /></a></div>
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Satin pants with a cumber bun waist - one of my designs I showed. The maxi skirt I wore to the audition was another design featured.</div>
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This is me the night before wearing a jersey color blocked sundress I made, scoping out where to find Macys.</div>
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So...Ben and I went to Chicago the night before. We stayed at a really nice hotel two blocks away from Macy's. I stayed up through the night sketching as many designs as I could for my portfolio. The next morning, I arrived to a line outside Macy's with about 100 people (was actually 101 in front of me as my number was 102). When the store opened, we all headed to the elevators to the 7th floor where another line formed. I can't remember how long we had to wait, but it wasn't that bad. I made a friend in line and we amused ourselves by checking out the competition. I was getting some mean looks, which I took as nervous jealousy from my competitors. Some designers had models with them, which was a nice touch. Some "designers" did not belong there. I did feel like I belonged. </div>
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After waiting in line, we were taken to a holding room where we waited our turn to hang up our garments on racks, which we would then take into the judging room, nine designers at a time. In the judging room were three rows of three tables with racks next to them. Each row had a judge. </div>
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When it was my turn, I set up my portfolio and pictures on the table and hung up the little bit of sample work that I had managed to get done in time for the audition. A judge, named Bobby, took a long time looking over my work (I noticed that I was the only one with any children's wear). He asked me about my label and about my story. I apologized for my lack of actual pieces to present, although I had pictures and sketches, siting that the Cobbler Has No Shoes! But he liked what I did have enough to have me wait around a while to talk to someone else. Now, not everyone was asked to wait, some were just told that if they didn't hear back by midnight, then they were out. A producer lady then came over to talk to me and look at my stuff. We spent a good deal of time talking. I got kinda emotional and almost cried. She told me that the next step was that the designers who would move on would be contacted by the producers in about two weeks and would be asked to submit camera footage of them at home.</div>
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Ben had gone to an art museum and met me afterward. I was on top of the world. My heart raced for two whole weeks. Two weeks came and went.</div>
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I was not sad. I am so glad to have gone and am excited to watch this season (starts in March) and see if there is anyone I recognize from the Chicago auditions. I also know what to expect next time and I plan on having more work to show.</div>
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So, here's the rest of what I've been doing since I last wrote. I'm going to illustrate with pictures.</div>
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A little girl in California had a pretty Birthday dress to wear that matched her brother's shorts and her doll's dress.</div>
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An old grade school friend commissioned me to make these for her adorable girls.</div>
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Upcycled sundress for Lucy</div>
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Below are a lot of</div>
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FLOWER GIRL DRESSES!!!</div>
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oh and this bright one too:</div>
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Next is a doll dress designed to match a flower girl dress (it still needed hemming when the picture was taken).</div>
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Then I took my kids and my mother to Florida:</div>
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Then I did a bunch of interior design sewing for a new restaurant in downtown Cincinnati (KAZE) as well as I designed the cocktail server dresses which were kimono inspired but feature a stiff collar matching the print on their obis (sashes) with a hidden pocket ta boot. </div>
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And so 2012 ended. Mousebee Couture quadrupled its business from its previous year and is on track to do even better this year. I've got nine orders for dresses and inquiries every day. I'm expecting another interior design commission soon and a reporter from Cincinnati Magazine will be coming to my house on Tuesday to interview me.</div>
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So, see, I haven't been lazy, or sulking. But, I promise to not wait so long until my next update. </div>
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Whomever you are reading this right now, whether my friend or family, or just someone passing through, thanks for taking the time and I wish you an amazing 2013!</div>
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AJiem (- this is what my name looks like when I type too fast. hehe.)</div>
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<br />projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-39334324474998278142012-07-11T13:39:00.002-07:002012-07-12T13:00:12.080-07:00Kittens Are Not Toys, and Will I Make it to Chicago in Time?The busyness of this spring was a surprise to me. I have tripled my dress sales from last year in just five months. This year's orders for First Communion dresses, graduation dresses, and other formal dresses knocked me out as I struggled to keep up as well as work part time waitressing and be a mom. I cut back my hours at the restaurant to just on the weekends and had to stop taking orders for dresses. After May, the orders slowed down and were left to a handful of Flower Girl dresses. I stopped taking orders for the summer as well as I needed some more family time. Here are some of the dress I made this spring:<br />
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<br />
Life outside of sewing update:<br />
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<br />
I hosted 30 family members for Easter this spring which was bittersweet. It was a good get together and we enjoyed having my cousin's family come in town, but one of my cats, a 2 year old tabby went missing in all the commotion. Three weeks later, my second cat, a purebred Oriental Shorthair disappeared. <br />
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I'm not sure if we have coyotes or what happened to them. But after weeks of a cat free home, I was beginning to feel a part of me was missing. I felt guilty that I thought they would be ok playing outside sensing all of the joy it brought them - I kept imaging them returning -the scene in my mind went a lot like that "running slow motion through a field, arms outstretched" scenario. So, I decided that kittens were in order. I played with the thought of buying a purebred again (this time a Turkish Angora - a white one with odd colored eyes!), but I would have to be on a waiting list and the kitten would be $800. So I then thought it good to get two kittens from the shelter. After visiting Cincinnati's SPCA looking for my missing cats, I discovered they had a lot of kittens. But when I made a call to see if any were available for adoption, the curt woman on the phone told me they had no kittens! <br />
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My need to fill my kitten fix was growing stronger by the day, by the hour. I enlisted Lucy in this quest as her role was to soften her Daddy's heart to the idea as he was rather enjoying the kitty litter free home we were now inhabiting. He was a bit keen on the idea of a little white kitten and agreed that you can't get just one. Plus, he thought it funny that Lucy wanted to name her cat "Chicken!" So, sensing an opening, I went for it and fate complied. I found kittens through our local Craigslist and made arrangements to take Lucy to a nearby amusement park for most of the day, followed by going to pick up two kittens that late afternoon - a pretty awesome day for a four-year-old! <br />
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We paid $20 total for the two remaining kittens from a litter of seven. One was a little white runt boy, and the other was a skittish, huskier creamy orange tabby boy. Enzo and Oscar, respectively, have been with us for about a month and have cleaned up nicely and are doing great. (The name Chicken was dropped as I feared it would predisposition the kitten's temperament) Enzo is still smaller than his brother, but his personality would have you think he thinks he is a tiger. Oscar is my special little cuddle buddy after the kids go to bed at night. I have found myself saying too often to my kids "Kittens are not toys!" They haven't quite got the gist of it, but at least Lucy has stopped putting Enzo in her riding toy's little trunk. <br />
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I'm going to keep a good eye on these two (you can take that to mean my kittens or my kids)! There will be no outdoors for them, either. I just felt like I had more love to give after I lost my first two, but I guess I needed to get more love, too.<br />
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Now, a very quick note about Chicago. I am trying very hard to get two flower girl dresses done, and create at least three samples of a collection from my portfolio in the next two weeks. But the irony of me being a seamstress/fashion designer is that in my case "The cobbler's kids have no shoes!" I rarely get the opportunity to make myself or my kids anything, so I have very little to show. On Sunday, July 22 is an open call casting for Fox TV's Fashion Star. I will need to organize a lookbook/portfolio to show as well. I am a crazy person to take all of this on, but we'll see, right!? I needed a break from the mad rush to get things done, something to clear my head and thought my about my patient little blog awaiting me and how it would be a great revitalizer to fuel me up. I'm glad I took the time to update this blog and will let you know how things turned out.<br />
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And a final update from me. Right before Easter, I received a call from my Aunt Cathi that she was diagnosed with a form of terminal cancer. She passed two weeks ago, aged 52, leaving behind my uncle, and her two daughters, and all of the rest of us. <br />
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I feel a part of me is missing again.<br />
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<br />projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-60668193818850975152012-03-10T11:13:00.001-08:002012-03-10T11:14:51.958-08:00Now Casting!So my beloved Project Runway is casting up until March 15th. (big sigh) I won't be applying, at least not this season. But...eleven has always been my lucky number - and that will be the following season's number. So, I finally have given myself a deadline. Also, the application that I have been working from is the same as they are currently using; same questions and requirements. The major hold up for me is that I will not have ten completed looks done in time. Currently, I have twelve dresses ordered, so I am busing doing them. The fun part is that I will be doing three new designs, which I will post pictures of as they are completed. <br />
<br />
I completed the order of nine dresses and got them shipped in time. I think that they turned out great. I have heard little feedback, though, as the buyer was not happy with the amount of money that her Country charged her to import the dresses. It was very frustrating for me, as well, as I wasn't aware of the amount to claim (a reasonable amount had to be claimed so I could insure them as they did represent two months of work done). It will be a lesson learned on my side. Here is the finished work:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gzTLcqDD4Qo/T1ukUJVLXXI/AAAAAAAAAIU/IuOwGI90aPI/s1600/allnine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gzTLcqDD4Qo/T1ukUJVLXXI/AAAAAAAAAIU/IuOwGI90aPI/s320/allnine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar0CQxb3IqA/T1ukXpwxUYI/AAAAAAAAAIk/BJ4kWBUlVI4/s1600/frontcanada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ar0CQxb3IqA/T1ukXpwxUYI/AAAAAAAAAIk/BJ4kWBUlVI4/s320/frontcanada.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the nine dresses were completed, I did a dress for an eight year old's Baptism in California. It was a similar design, but in white silk and lace. I surprised her by making her a gift, a matching dress for her American Girl doll:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1VWKCQuw3Ek/T1ukaINpnKI/AAAAAAAAAIs/9zvKquaxkyY/s1600/dolldress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1VWKCQuw3Ek/T1ukaINpnKI/AAAAAAAAAIs/9zvKquaxkyY/s320/dolldress.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was a hit!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next in line are the remaining orders, what did I say? Thirteen? Twelve? Anyway -I have Erin to help me until she is off to New York City for her next coop at the end of March. Business is good, I have tripled my business from last year and it is only March. At this rate, I told Erin, I could pay her if she wanted to do her last coop this Fall with me. It may work out. We had the idea of throwing our own fashion show next year, an opportunity for the seniors at her school to showcase their designs as well as bring in other talent in Cincinnati. Our little city has much talent to offer! I'm putting this idea here so that it doesn't go away and so I'm held to it. A huge part of my Project Runway dream is my imaginings of what my fashion show would look like. The thought of it almost makes me cry each time. I get so filled up with joy/pride/humility/passion/etc. that I could just "pop."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking about happy thoughts, my next blog will be about my recent vacation to St. john and how it gave me design inspirations!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Take Care!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-36813968197552470362012-01-27T09:19:00.000-08:002012-01-27T09:19:26.842-08:00Update On My Update/ I Love Erin!Hello!<br />
<br />
So yesterday was very important in that Erin, who did an intern stint with me back in 2010, came over. She has agreed to take on some work to help me finish all my ordered dresses on a commission basis. It's like having an employee. She is still in school finishing up her Marketing and Fashion Designs degrees, so I am lucky that she is fitting me in to her schedule. It seems we always have the perfect timing for each other! <br />
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What I love about Erin is that she went back to school to pursue her dreams. I love living vicariously through her since there is no way I can go to DAAP (the awesome design school here in Cincinnati) because I'll never have the time to do so. I would love to take the classes there to learn new skills and perfect my current ones, but I will have to stick with my books and online resources.<br />
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I also love how well Erin and I work together and am looking forward to our future sewing connection!<br />
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So, currently I am working on the nine dresses that will be heading to Ontario. I am really excited about how they are turning out - I'll post a picture when one is perfectly complete. Also I have two more orders for dresses and 13 possible orders! Things are going great. My sales are more than half of what they were for the entire year last year and January is not even over. <br />
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This is all great, but I admit that I have a tinge of remorse in that I do not have time to pursue my projects to further my journey toward Project Runway. I believe that this year the application process will start soon, but it is not the year for me. But who knows how long the show will continue? Will I be too late? I must set a goal. I will apply next spring. I will do my projects between orders. <br />
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There you have it!projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-46688387837961597492012-01-16T08:01:00.000-08:002012-01-16T08:01:21.871-08:00What's Going on...Hello blog, I miss you!<br />
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Right now I am creating nine dresses for a dance studio in Ontario that are to be completed and shipped by the end of February. I cannot wait to show you all pictures. But, needless to say, I am very busy. I am enjoying watching Project Runway All Stars and have been playing along in my mind, but am not able to draw along and post about it due to my time restraints. Also, Tim Gunn was in Cincinnati this past weekend and I enjoyed imaging running into him, which included me slipping him a note with this post's address on it. :)<br />
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Ok, back to work for me!projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-17212103906565845312011-12-27T12:31:00.000-08:002011-12-28T08:15:40.893-08:00Fashion ForwardssThe Holiday was good to me in many ways. One way in particular which will foster my fashion journey, was that it provided new educational resources for my library:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4Ctf7PJAlM/TvonhoW8ddI/AAAAAAAAAH4/4swPSReWRio/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4Ctf7PJAlM/TvonhoW8ddI/AAAAAAAAAH4/4swPSReWRio/s320/books.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I received six books total:<br />
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For inspiration and historical reference:<br />
- 100 Dresses<br />
- 100 Shoes<br />
both of the above are from The Metropolitan Museum of Art<br />
and<br />
100 Unforgettable Dresses (by Hal Rubenstein)<br />
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For Design Reference:<br />
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Fashion 101 (by Erika Stalder) - This is an extensive encyclopedia of each type of clothing as well as each's history<br />
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For Design Training:<br />
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101 Things I learned in Fashion School (by Alfredo Cabrera with Matthew Frederick)<br />
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and<br />
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Fashion Design Course (by Steven Faerm)<br />
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So, I have already dove right into the books and am currently working on designing my first dress. <br />
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I am still finishing up a couple Monster Hoodies as Christmas presents for friend's kids:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But my children's wear will have to be put on hold for a while. I still have my Etsy shop and will continue to take orders, but I will limit how many I take on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I am looking forward to making fashion for me. I am Fashion Forward For Me!<br />
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The time has come to stop thinking about and learning about fashion, but to just do it. I will make dresses, slacks, tops, jackets, etc. etc.<br />
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2012 here I come...projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-83729478680580134622011-12-10T10:09:00.000-08:002011-12-10T10:12:53.422-08:00While The Boy Naps...I'll take this opportunity to get caught up here. In an organized fashion, let's tackle the following topics:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">1. Completed sewing projects.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">2. Currently.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">3. Future Outlook.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">1. So, the first project completed was Lucy's Princess Dress for Halloween:</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDZ4_97Z0V8/TuObUVXjhSI/AAAAAAAAAGs/at0jL1CO-TA/s1600/blue1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fDZ4_97Z0V8/TuObUVXjhSI/AAAAAAAAAGs/at0jL1CO-TA/s320/blue1.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNYU8WiX9PI/TuObWA0RoFI/AAAAAAAAAG0/ORa70Clt7mg/s1600/blue2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNYU8WiX9PI/TuObWA0RoFI/AAAAAAAAAG0/ORa70Clt7mg/s320/blue2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRQIYTpge0g/TuObZbuwR-I/AAAAAAAAAG8/F_PhXLHQuaI/s1600/blue3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRQIYTpge0g/TuObZbuwR-I/AAAAAAAAAG8/F_PhXLHQuaI/s320/blue3.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pe7qaLnX8wg/TuObcMo_oUI/AAAAAAAAAHE/JFFQnbLVG7g/s1600/blue4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pe7qaLnX8wg/TuObcMo_oUI/AAAAAAAAAHE/JFFQnbLVG7g/s320/blue4.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #cccccc; color: purple;">I like how it turned out and she loved wearing it. I listed it on my shop adding that I can do any color variation, but knowing that it is time consuming, I made it an expensive item. It is fully lined and well made, so worth it.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #cccccc; color: purple;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #cccccc; color: purple;">The next items which took up most of November, was Sarah's Flower girl and jr. bridesmaid dresses. The Flower Girl was easy, but making a bigger one was not. I actually started all over on the jr. one as the first was not long enough in the torso and I wasn't in love with the design. The girl it was for was taller and more slender and more "hip" for the first design. She was a size 13, but I was using a size 8 dress form which I had padded, but you can still get an idea of how it looked. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #cccccc;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #cccccc; color: purple;">Flower Girl</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TvNDXXStpjo/TuOc3zxyQjI/AAAAAAAAAHM/Ee9_kyA8eqs/s1600/tulle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TvNDXXStpjo/TuOc3zxyQjI/AAAAAAAAAHM/Ee9_kyA8eqs/s320/tulle1.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-31m5amYLmpY/TuOdIt9-J_I/AAAAAAAAAHc/Gu9dkdhIu8c/s1600/tulle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-31m5amYLmpY/TuOdIt9-J_I/AAAAAAAAAHc/Gu9dkdhIu8c/s320/tulle2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Jr. Bridesmaid</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGkTW-tRoo0/TuOc65lPAQI/AAAAAAAAAHU/feHmVYu7cxI/s1600/tess2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGkTW-tRoo0/TuOc65lPAQI/AAAAAAAAAHU/feHmVYu7cxI/s320/tess2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">2. Currently I am working on Christmas gifts - which I cannot elaborate on now, in case a relative or friend is reading this! But I will update you after the holidays. Also, I have been corresponding back and forth with several potential clients via my shop on Etsy (www.etsy.com/shop/mousebeecouture). They have been planning First Communion and Flower girl dresses, mostly. However, one woman, was interested in me doing dance recital dresses, ten total. If that happens, I'll have to take time off work to get them all done in time (February) and I'll have to stop taking any other orders until then too. So, it would be a mixed blessing. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">3. I had to raise my prices in my shop because I can only take on so much as I have been working more and making good money at the restaurant. It makes me sad because I do think that I could make it a real business if I had the time and money. I often day dream about it: having a shop and employees and new designs and samples and an awesome website. Maybe someday. For now, I'll take on what I can and make each one awesome. I still am wanting to do more of my own projects though. I ordered four fashion books for Christmas for myself that I am anxious to get a hold of. After the holidays, I will reavaluate my agenda and make a list for the new year. For now, here's Lucy in a holiday dress I made last year. It is a super light and crisp dark green taffeta skirt with a festive green and gold striped cotton bodice.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Happy Holidays! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
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</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-61357720113839170552011-10-29T08:09:00.000-07:002011-10-29T08:09:46.225-07:00It's All Over......Project Driveway, that is! What I thought was going to be a drawn all out through the winter and into the spring project has been completed. And, don't tell Ben, but I do like the car. I used to have a keen little red Miata back in my early twenties that I loved, so having another convertible will be fun. Anyway here are some pictures:<br />
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This is how the project began (you can see how this may have been a little unsettling at first!)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AuX9cyp7zBY/TqwW4qV2RGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/UchFI34kDmE/s1600/carparts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AuX9cyp7zBY/TqwW4qV2RGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/UchFI34kDmE/s320/carparts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But it didn't take too long to change out the bad engine and here we the finished car:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRrmHVWyp6c/TqwXFrORIWI/AAAAAAAAAFI/-PYKumFep9s/s1600/car1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRrmHVWyp6c/TqwXFrORIWI/AAAAAAAAAFI/-PYKumFep9s/s320/car1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And Lucy:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oRnpbxJJoKA/TqwXMB7hRUI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/-LWuBmMQ5H4/s1600/lucycar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oRnpbxJJoKA/TqwXMB7hRUI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/-LWuBmMQ5H4/s320/lucycar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-65034271139534221742011-10-29T07:53:00.000-07:002011-10-29T07:53:22.752-07:00It's All Over......The ninth season of Project Runway, that is. And I must say that it was pretty disappointing. I was thoroughly let down by the lack of talent this season which is confusing because I am sure that they get thousands of applicants. And here I am "in training" myself, as I do not think I am experienced enough to even try out and along comes Anya with only four months of sewing experience and she wins the whole thing. Although really it came down to who didn't completely blow it. The competition was Victor's to win, but out of nowhere he throws in all these transparent black chiffon cut out monstrosities which was a shame as his other looks were good. But Anya had no depth to her collection. She had no jackets or pants, only flowing dresses or jumpers. Kimberly had some interesting pieces, but her collection was just ok. BUT at least Joshua, the Bedazzler, didn't win. I can not believe that he made it that far with some of the things that he made during the competition. His color pallet was awful, particularly the chartreuse items. <br />
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I just kept thinking about past seasons' designers and current designers and design students everywhere and how they must have been at home shaking their heads in wonderment at how things have come to this. <br />
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but I will keep on course.<br />
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Let's just chalk it up to a rotten season. Now, I will keep up with my game. I have an imaginary $9000 to create a collection of ten looks. So - stay tuned as I will be posting my "collection" soon. Currently I am finishing up Lucy's princess costume and then I have two more Flower Girl dresses to do - which I will post all of those pictures, too. But I did want to reflect on the end of the show as it was still fresh in my mind.projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-88299308720813242992011-10-21T09:08:00.000-07:002011-10-21T09:08:25.077-07:00Flower Girl Gallery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So... these are the dresses that I have been working on for the Autumn wedding season:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first was an existing dress that I took off the dark brown velvet sash and installed a light pink taffeta sash. It ended up going to Australia!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2q96l1XQ-0/TqGXKGodvpI/AAAAAAAAAEI/Re3kk1h0TsY/s1600/aussiefront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2q96l1XQ-0/TqGXKGodvpI/AAAAAAAAAEI/Re3kk1h0TsY/s320/aussiefront.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-APXY7hLrSxo/TqGXLjYg1DI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/5r1zbaqzcLI/s1600/aussieback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-APXY7hLrSxo/TqGXLjYg1DI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/5r1zbaqzcLI/s320/aussieback.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This dress is a mini version (size 12 months) of my popular silk and lace design that went to Tennessee.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVKW_cLLl_I/TqGXMgWdnPI/AAAAAAAAAEY/C8EQxNXIxCo/s1600/babylace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVKW_cLLl_I/TqGXMgWdnPI/AAAAAAAAAEY/C8EQxNXIxCo/s320/babylace.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This dress was a replica of a J.Crew design that went to a Flower Girl in California. The ruffles kicked my butt, but I was happy with the end result.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7MJFlH3hC6U/TqGXOysZP2I/AAAAAAAAAEg/V5Z-kKnSxO0/s1600/jcrewfront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7MJFlH3hC6U/TqGXOysZP2I/AAAAAAAAAEg/V5Z-kKnSxO0/s320/jcrewfront.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ndUhajc6l8/TqGXQYJEsII/AAAAAAAAAEo/csVK--RpRsI/s1600/jcrewback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ndUhajc6l8/TqGXQYJEsII/AAAAAAAAAEo/csVK--RpRsI/s320/jcrewback.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was actually four dresses (the rust colored sash one is not pictured as I only have three mannequins). They are eyelet dresses with coordinating skirt lining and saves all in Autumn colors. They ended up in New York.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6d2gsCNdJ0k/TqGXSPtcBnI/AAAAAAAAAEw/8BNHLxc41Rk/s1600/newyorkdresses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6d2gsCNdJ0k/TqGXSPtcBnI/AAAAAAAAAEw/8BNHLxc41Rk/s320/newyorkdresses.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And here we have two dresses in very different sizes, that went to Miami, both in the silk and lace design:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2D-uEk4Vqk/TqGXTu-iUAI/AAAAAAAAAE4/W1SCnGEjzJc/s1600/miamidresses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2D-uEk4Vqk/TqGXTu-iUAI/AAAAAAAAAE4/W1SCnGEjzJc/s320/miamidresses.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-60471643309362144162011-10-20T10:54:00.000-07:002011-10-20T10:54:41.342-07:00The Final Challenge - "Ello Govner!"For the final challenge, the remaining designers are swept away to Governor's Island to final inspiration in creating three garments.<br />
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Governor's Island is really not all that inspiring, however, nor were the final collections of the final designers. For my designs, I looked away from the island toward the surrounding water for inspiration. I used a color palette that reflects the water with a dark steel grey/blue flawy silk. With the structured city in the background, the top of act design is more constructed. The belts I couldn't find on Piperline, but could just paint the mint green color onto a thin belt. This pop of color (which also is sneaked between the folds of fabric in the gown) is a literal nod to The Statue of Liberty, but was not actually intended. I just really like the mint with the dark grey blue. Anyway, here we go:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sTQGYaCW08k/TqBeKvOWzXI/AAAAAAAAADg/AlmJlEhW6bE/s1600/photo-55.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sTQGYaCW08k/TqBeKvOWzXI/AAAAAAAAADg/AlmJlEhW6bE/s320/photo-55.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UP96m5DzhtU/TqBeNuXiB5I/AAAAAAAAADo/7ad3D2S1UwU/s1600/photo-53.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UP96m5DzhtU/TqBeNuXiB5I/AAAAAAAAADo/7ad3D2S1UwU/s320/photo-53.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kt0RVhQpt7E/TqBeQbgNSSI/AAAAAAAAADw/uwo1XW6f9QE/s1600/photo-52.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kt0RVhQpt7E/TqBeQbgNSSI/AAAAAAAAADw/uwo1XW6f9QE/s320/photo-52.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea03rRUErEw/TqBftCJhuNI/AAAAAAAAAD4/1160KwW2Yjw/s1600/bluesilk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea03rRUErEw/TqBftCJhuNI/AAAAAAAAAD4/1160KwW2Yjw/s1600/bluesilk.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HLzuJqULRI/TqBfuN2h4jI/AAAAAAAAAEA/7kEBwTpVBUo/s1600/kiwi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HLzuJqULRI/TqBfuN2h4jI/AAAAAAAAAEA/7kEBwTpVBUo/s1600/kiwi.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coming Up Next:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My next blogs will show all of the dress orders that I have been working on (all of the internet orders are finished and shipped!) My next projects will be: Lucy's Halloween dress, Sarah's Flower Girl dresses - one of which is a Junior Bridesmaid's dress which I'm really excited to create, and a dress for myself to wear to the wedding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-47683692365078298042011-10-20T10:22:00.000-07:002011-10-20T10:22:29.283-07:00For the BirdsSo this dress was inspired by the green parrot that inspired the losing garment this week. Poor Bert got the axe this week and I didn't hate his outfit as much as I disliked Laura's. But, here we go:<br />
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This look would be made with as much tulle as my $300 would allow with a graduation in color that would differentiate my dress with a one toned yellow "Big Bird."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHJ8_ef8P2Y/TqBYxveNOpI/AAAAAAAAADY/B6t3R3h8Wh0/s1600/photo-50.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHJ8_ef8P2Y/TqBYxveNOpI/AAAAAAAAADY/B6t3R3h8Wh0/s320/photo-50.JPG" width="239" /></a></div> projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-91951046933245255672011-10-05T21:37:00.000-07:002011-10-05T21:41:08.930-07:00Every Day I'm Shuffling...to get everything done. I am still getting caught up on all of the Flower Girl dress orders and I do plan on getting Lucy's dress done for Halloween. I have also increased my number of shifts at the restaurant (which received a four star review last week!). The major victim in my life right now, receiving less attention from me, is the laundry. I'm hoping that soon my husband will wake up to find that he has no clean undies and will then realize that he needs to help out. But, alas! He has found his passion, too.<br />
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My husband has taken on his own project, which I have aptly named: Project Driveway. He has procured a 1994 Audi Cabriolet in non working condition that he is determined to transform into working condition. I would rather he would come home from work and declare his desire to play with the kids, do a couple of loads of laundry, empty the dishwasher, etc. so I can sew, sew, sew! <br />
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I really don't know where the time goes. <br />
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But, I have managed to get my designs done to get caught up with Project Runway. And I would like to give a shout out to Lucy for letting me use her box of 96 crayons to help illustrate these designs.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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So, the first is the challenge where the designers had to design garments for "real people." They met with a man who would describe a perfect outfit for his lady. I ended up designing for the woman who wanted something girly and pink for attending a wedding in. The actual design made for her was the losing design. My design is a layered, tiered chiffon wrap dress. I love it and may create it someday:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwPTG7b_uGc/To0sQnvB4rI/AAAAAAAAACo/ey7WsIK95fE/s1600/photo-42.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwPTG7b_uGc/To0sQnvB4rI/AAAAAAAAACo/ey7WsIK95fE/s320/photo-42.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GZln2HdCM0/To0vfska8eI/AAAAAAAAAC8/sdWAMlK0BuY/s1600/rose1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5GZln2HdCM0/To0vfska8eI/AAAAAAAAAC8/sdWAMlK0BuY/s1600/rose1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgSC_ewREhM/To0viRbQuAI/AAAAAAAAADA/Wnh1Y-eU9Yg/s1600/pink2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WgSC_ewREhM/To0viRbQuAI/AAAAAAAAADA/Wnh1Y-eU9Yg/s1600/pink2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FM9ZP4MkoZg/To0vjo3tO5I/AAAAAAAAADE/7XVZEgJkDIE/s1600/pink3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FM9ZP4MkoZg/To0vjo3tO5I/AAAAAAAAADE/7XVZEgJkDIE/s1600/pink3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M6RmrvbNLa8/To0vk4QPRAI/AAAAAAAAADI/MDWR-J3wVko/s1600/pink4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M6RmrvbNLa8/To0vk4QPRAI/AAAAAAAAADI/MDWR-J3wVko/s1600/pink4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The second design in this post is for the episode where the designers had to design a garment for a member of a rock band. Again, I took the losing designer's client and redesigned something. My idea here was to have a snakeskin leather pant in a deep brown red color and on top a gauze (think thin linen) bottom down shirt over a brick red jersey tank. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBCJLcqwM9o/To0tIfahMeI/AAAAAAAAACs/t-CFFXz8r5s/s1600/photo-45.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBCJLcqwM9o/To0tIfahMeI/AAAAAAAAACs/t-CFFXz8r5s/s320/photo-45.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLFsw88LMfg/To0vpTtSFJI/AAAAAAAAADM/n4mdoEZF58s/s1600/snake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLFsw88LMfg/To0vpTtSFJI/AAAAAAAAADM/n4mdoEZF58s/s1600/snake.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And last week's challenge was to create a look inspired by the seventies, but still modern. The first look was to be done with $150 and the second with $50. The second could not be separates.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SeA0jZegnS8/To0vx2Bi0iI/AAAAAAAAADU/zBF_IdNIZpY/s1600/purpleblue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SeA0jZegnS8/To0vx2Bi0iI/AAAAAAAAADU/zBF_IdNIZpY/s1600/purpleblue.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, I am caught up on the design challenges now. I am currently working on a new design (new to me) for a flower girl dress that is almost complete. I also got my new tags in the mail. They are really sharp - embroidered silver thread on white that say: Mousebee Couture with Cincinnati, Ohio underneath. I will do a post on my flower girl dresses soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now off to bed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-21762940614415888642011-09-23T10:22:00.000-07:002011-09-23T10:26:11.521-07:00Up to My AnklesJust an update on what's been going on with me. <br />
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You're probably thinking, "She's two episodes behind!" I know, I know. I plan on getting caught up soon with the show. I have my designs in mind, I just need to draw them out. Maybe I'll do that tonight at work on my server notepad before the dining room gets busy. I'll mention this, though: my husband was geared up by last night's challenge which featured the designers creating men's wear. He asked me if I could do that which I replied "Why not?" He wants me to make him some jeans - so I'll put that on my list of things to do.<br />
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This morning I finished up and shipped off four flower girl dresses which were cotton eyelet with Autumnal colored taffeta sashes. When I am all caught up with all my orders of these flower girl dresses, I will post pictures of them. This weekend I will be changing the sash on an existing dress and shipping it off to Australia for a November wedding, then I will be making a new pattern for a dress made like a current J Crew design that a buyer could not get shipped in time for her wedding from the J Crew website. New patterns and designs are always fun for me. I won't feature the design on my Etsy shop, though, because it is not my original design. Then I have two silk and lace dresses going to Miami, Florida for a wedding. <br />
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I hope to get Lucy's (my three year old) princess dress done for Halloween. She helped to pick out her own fabrics and I'm excited for the beautiful Cerulean Blue and silver Brocade fabric that I'll use on the bodice. The dress will even have a literal silver lining!<br />
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And then, I will finally get to make my first junior bridesmaid dress for a friend's wedding at the end of November. I am also making a flower girl dress for her too.<br />
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So I am still busy with dress orders to the point where I had to stop taking orders until mid-late November. BUT I will get those Project Runway designs done before the next episode airs. <br />
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I promise!<br />
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By the way, my Etsy shop link is: www.etsy.com/shop/mousebeecouture<br />
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I don't know if I've mentioned that before?!projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-34737048215848925482011-09-15T14:46:00.000-07:002011-09-15T14:47:59.759-07:00Create a Print - Team ChallengeI am finally catching up a little with the show as tonight a new episode airs and I don't want to get two episodes behind. If I had more time, and I would love to revisit this idea later, I would have actually designed my own print using the website spoonflower.com. And I didn't have a team to work with, so I just did my own print and one design.<br />
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My idea was inspired by my love of toile. I love looking at the different stories a toile fabric is telling. And I love discovering new and interesting designs. My idea was to create a toile pattern based on "Mid Summer Night's Dream." I have included a close up of the scene where Titania, under a love spell, is in love with the mortal, Bottom, who has had the unfortunate circumstance of having his head transformed to that of an ass. The idea of my toile would be to have various scenes from the play throughout the fabric.<br />
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I thought a simple flared sundress would be the best canvas for this design and I just love the combination of green and blue!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxXvvjAFYUI/TnJyDy-8eHI/AAAAAAAAACc/Gez1mCIXBFk/s1600/photo-30.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rxXvvjAFYUI/TnJyDy-8eHI/AAAAAAAAACc/Gez1mCIXBFk/s320/photo-30.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZsvfEk9Nl4/TnJyGr8k0GI/AAAAAAAAACg/ZEeVIda28M4/s1600/photo-31.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ZsvfEk9Nl4/TnJyGr8k0GI/AAAAAAAAACg/ZEeVIda28M4/s320/photo-31.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-63208623621243059082011-09-13T20:22:00.000-07:002011-09-13T20:22:51.883-07:00Up to my knees...Dear blog friends, just a mention that I have been up to my knees in Flower Girl dress orders. Therefore, I have been away from the blog for longer than I would like. But I will get caught up soon. This is a good problem to have as I am making some cash. But don't feel neglected, or at least, don't feel alone. The laundry is the true victim here. It has been piling up all week. Oh the irony: I love to make clothes, but I hate to clean them.<br />
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Until we meet again...projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-64024494996534958582011-09-02T14:15:00.000-07:002011-09-14T12:56:15.542-07:00Artistic Inspiration ChallengeOk, these challenges are really silly. Why can't they just give them a lot of money and a good amount of time to make a beautiful red carpet gown. I wish the challenges would try to be less creative and get back to fashion. I haven't been blown away yet by any of the designers, but I am waiting. <br />
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So, Project Runway used to be my show that I would watch while my husband was not at home both for the reason that it annoyed him and for the reason that it annoyed me to have him make fun of Tim Gunn's little catch phrases. But, for some reason I can't pinpoint, he started watching it with me this season. Maybe it was a curiosity on his part to see what this show was all about and to see what I would hypothetically be getting myself into? <br />
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Anyway, he is enjoying it - mostly for the remarks of the judges (Michael Kors specifically) that have been cracking him up. He was also excited to see that Kenneth Cole is a straight male designer. And I mention this not to knock the gay male designers, but to point out that straight men can be creative and fashionable too.<br />
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And I mention this bit about my husband because it was his idea that directed my design this week. After watching this episode, which the designers were to create a haute couture garment inspired by a piece of artwork (the artwork was created by the designer and an art student), I asked how I was going to create my own design. Where was I going to get an original piece of artwork? To this question, my husband pointed out that I should use one of his paintings. <br />
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So I did. <br />
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Here is one of his paintings. All of his work is done on large canvases made by him and is based on the Golden Ratio.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dq1xDg2k_HU/TmFEHQe4B3I/AAAAAAAAACU/Fy90AU4ynJU/s1600/benspainting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dq1xDg2k_HU/TmFEHQe4B3I/AAAAAAAAACU/Fy90AU4ynJU/s320/benspainting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And here is my design. Normally I do "shopping" at mood fabrics.com to try to truly mimic the challenge. But I have a babysitter today and I want to get some sewing done before my "time is up." But know that the dress would consist of stretch velvet as the basics of the dress (with black mesh at the top and down the back) and different colored pastel chiffon would be the flowing detail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V_fOArugDq0/TmFFGsqTnYI/AAAAAAAAACY/GuUp8HbCRkw/s1600/artdress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V_fOArugDq0/TmFFGsqTnYI/AAAAAAAAACY/GuUp8HbCRkw/s320/artdress.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And, I am not married to the black mesh on top, but thought it might look good strapless too. But there it is. The green velvet horizontal stripe would actually hold some of the chiffon in as well. And there would be a chiffon train in the back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-37268639527824895162011-08-30T12:08:00.000-07:002011-08-30T12:08:23.393-07:00Project Runway Application Question(s) #2:Have you ever worked or do you currently work for a designer or manufacturer? If yes, please list any and all positions you have held working for a designer or manufacturer to date (include your responsibilities and if it was a staff or intern position):<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Nope</span><br />
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Please describe your job history outside the fields of fashion and design:<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I have been in the service industry</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">(as a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">waitress</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">bar tender</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">) part time </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">since I was 16. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> I was also a high school </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">English teacher</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Drama director</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">. I was an </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">actress</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> in a local theater company for one show (Miss Saigon) that ran for 8 weeks. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Then I was a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Realtor</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">, followed by a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Leasing Agent</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> for a Property Management company. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Then I had a baby and was a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">stay at home mom</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">. I went back to waitressing part time when the baby was four months old and did that until I had my second baby. I stayed home for 11 months with both kids and then went back to part time bar tending and waitressing which is what I do now.</span><br />
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</span><br />
Have you attended a fashion design school or a fashion program? If yes, what was the school and program you attended? Did you graduate? If you graduated, what was the type of degree earned? If not, why did you leave the program?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Nope</span><br />
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If you answered "No" to the above question, what is your fashion/design background?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">As a hobby, I taught myself how to sew together pillows as gifts for friends. When I was a drama director, I had to piece some costumes together. But the driving force of my designing of fashion was the birth of my daughter. I found a woman in town who gave private lessons and she taught me over the course of one year (about once or twice a month) how to sew from commercial patterns. I started experimenting after that and was refashioning adult clothes into infant clothes (which I actually got to teach others to do at my sewing mentor's studio). When I was pregnant with my son, I met a girl who was a fashion design student at The University of Cincinnati's Design, Art, and Architecture Program. She was waitressing with me and was searching for an internship position. She couldn't afford to move to a big city yet, but wasn't getting any local offers either. About that time, I had come up with a brand name and was making toddler dresses to sell. I offered to have her come work with me and my start up company. One month before my son was born, my intern came to work with me five days a week, 20 hours a week, for three months. I couldn't afford to pay her, but provided her with lunch every day and a great experience to add to her portfolio. She still worked at the restaurant in the evenings, so she could get by with not being paid by me. She designed a website for me (currently not being used, however) and helped me get my Etsy shop up and running. She also helped me build my inventory. What I got from the experience was another sewing mentor. She helped me to polish up my sewing, especially with linings and hand stitches. She also taught me the basics of pattern drafting.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
Do you know how to:<br />
- Cut?<br />
- Sew?<br />
-Sketch?<br />
- Make your own patterns?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Yes to all of the above.</span><br />
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Please describe your design philosophy/point of view:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I had the opportunity to make a surprise visit to see my grandfather who was ill. My grandmother had him get up out of bed and get dressed. He wondered what the big deal was, only to understand by my arrival that he was getting a visitor. He said to me as he realized this, "It does feel good to be dressed nice." </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">My grandfather passed away months later, but that simple thought stuck with me. Those days when I would stay at home with my kids, I would find inspiration from him to get out of my pajamas. And those rare occasions that got me out of the house, requiring to dress up, did make me feel good.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">So, I think fashion is supposed to transform our emotions. It makes us feel confident, or strong, or sexy, or mysterious, or fun, or dangerous, or important, etc.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I want the clothes I design to evoke feelings of confidence in beauty. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I think that's all I can say on the subject for now. I want to revisit this later as I gain more experience. Then I can articulate better my design style and philosophy.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br />
</span><br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-64224185134137180782011-08-28T14:07:00.000-07:002011-08-28T14:07:15.602-07:00New BalanceThis challenge was hard for me because I don't wear sneakers or denim. But I thought that if I did, I'd want them to be comfortable and stylish. I designed a dark blue denim jean/legging and a beige suede bodice with a jersey cardigan with features two bold and bright colors. It would be very loose and flowy which is not truly demonstrated in my sketch. But I think it would be pretty awesome. This week's challenge had them creating three designs in teams of three with $300. So I created one look under $100.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Eihh5tZ8Js/Tlqts8JhjuI/AAAAAAAAACA/cvcsHyILNY4/s1600/newbalance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Eihh5tZ8Js/Tlqts8JhjuI/AAAAAAAAACA/cvcsHyILNY4/s320/newbalance.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw4zFn6bCHE/TlqtyY2OVcI/AAAAAAAAACE/lsLTMHEPOkg/s1600/jerseystripes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw4zFn6bCHE/TlqtyY2OVcI/AAAAAAAAACE/lsLTMHEPOkg/s1600/jerseystripes.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0snP7kJCRFc/Tlqt06ITqhI/AAAAAAAAACI/bKmF2N2ooPs/s1600/pinkstars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0snP7kJCRFc/Tlqt06ITqhI/AAAAAAAAACI/bKmF2N2ooPs/s1600/pinkstars.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tO7cepm4FBA/Tlqt3N2EWUI/AAAAAAAAACM/p7CUnw-O_RY/s1600/denim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tO7cepm4FBA/Tlqt3N2EWUI/AAAAAAAAACM/p7CUnw-O_RY/s1600/denim.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mlimaS3cw_0/Tlqt8IFODnI/AAAAAAAAACQ/iHbNo_-ofFA/s1600/beigesuede.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mlimaS3cw_0/Tlqt8IFODnI/AAAAAAAAACQ/iHbNo_-ofFA/s1600/beigesuede.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-48452453080333135082011-08-22T11:27:00.000-07:002011-08-22T11:27:27.753-07:00Nina ChallengeI finally had time to sketch my ideas this morning after working all weekend. Work is going to be a definite hindrance to this project, but it is suppling finances. In fact, my French curve ruler set arrived on Saturday. Hooray!<br />
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I also started to piece my black skirt together. <br />
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But, back to the show. This week's challenge was to create a look for Nina. The budget was $200. I do have to say that I did like Kimberley's winning design. However, there were a lot of designs that weren't so great.<br />
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So, I have brought two designs to the table as the designers were given a chance to sit down with Nina and get her thoughts. My first design idea is separates. The top would have this fabulous tweed between an almost white fake leather. The pants would be a satin charcoal/platinum fabric.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cp6BrWq-wHo/TlKbWgRAAXI/AAAAAAAAABw/u2wXs-AkGFw/s1600/nina1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cp6BrWq-wHo/TlKbWgRAAXI/AAAAAAAAABw/u2wXs-AkGFw/s320/nina1.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a close up of the tweed fabrics:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K2-fMZ9col8/TlKb3kEwLJI/AAAAAAAAAB0/N3coCfC2UHM/s1600/tweed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K2-fMZ9col8/TlKb3kEwLJI/AAAAAAAAAB0/N3coCfC2UHM/s320/tweed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the satin pants:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ook-SWsqeT0/TlKeL6OksUI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Ppn6_24q7hw/s1600/satinpants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ook-SWsqeT0/TlKeL6OksUI/AAAAAAAAAB4/Ppn6_24q7hw/s320/satinpants.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My second design idea would be to make a simple mod long sleeved white dress, but paint a cool design on it with acrylic fabric paint:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgZebqWPhaM/TlKegXrfC5I/AAAAAAAAAB8/rDVXS8ei4SY/s1600/nina2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgZebqWPhaM/TlKegXrfC5I/AAAAAAAAAB8/rDVXS8ei4SY/s320/nina2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, I have to work Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday this week and I will be beginning to create four flower girl dresses for a bride in New York, so I will be plenty busy. But I still hope to get the skirt done this week and I want to get some more application questions done, too. Until then!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-90834130228220789962011-08-17T10:43:00.000-07:002011-08-17T10:43:09.393-07:00Keeping on TrackSo, I've begun my new job waiting tables, which will only be three nights a week. I have been through training and my brain hurts from trying to keep all the wines straight and from trying to get all the Italian words right. We had a soft opening last night, but I left early as it wasn't too busy, which pleased my in-laws (babysitters). Apparently Lucy was being difficult in not wanting to wear pants and then decided to try out her new washable markers on her little brother's face. I have a picture, but as it shows her half naked, I don't think I will post it. But it does show her skill in face painting. <br />
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I finally finished the red jersey shirt. I'm pretty happy with it - jersey is a tricky fabric and I think the next time I work with it, I will be even better as I'm learning new tricks to it. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKPl0rRtqs0/Tkv4aTRPVtI/AAAAAAAAABo/D5052Bmcev0/s1600/redshirtpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKPl0rRtqs0/Tkv4aTRPVtI/AAAAAAAAABo/D5052Bmcev0/s320/redshirtpic.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
The blue. grey, black, and white shirt is a polyester blend chiffon, which was also tricky. But I am getting good at it, especially with the roller hem foot. This is a shirt that I made previous to beginning this blog. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Today I ordered a set of 8 French Curve rulers from Amazon. These will allow me to draft my own patterns better. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm having trouble getting motivated today. There are laundry baskets with clean clothes to fold, but as Finn is napping now, I hate to use up my "free" time doing chores. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know. I will measure Lucy's windows and plan her curtains - right after a cup of coffee!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-87897112995238430222011-08-13T10:34:00.000-07:002011-08-13T10:34:38.651-07:00Go Big or Go HomeThe their design challenge of Project Runway, Season 9 put the designers in teams of two and asked them to take $300 and create a design for stilt walkers. The idea was to play around with proportion. Now my initial thought was to get all crazy and SyFy with this challenge, but as I sketched, the model wasn't looking fantastical at all, but rather she was looking freakish. Then I imagined that I was creating an ensemble for Lady Gaga, but then again, it wasn't "easy on the eye." I thought that I could create, as Tyra Banks says, an "ugly pretty," but all I was getting was ugly. I did come up with an idea that was very structural and abstract, but I scratched going in that direction what with only being given one day to make the dress. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PV44ZGjA1M/Tka1p1mdTQI/AAAAAAAAABk/MBFH2Mf-go0/s1600/gobigpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PV44ZGjA1M/Tka1p1mdTQI/AAAAAAAAABk/MBFH2Mf-go0/s320/gobigpic.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>So, my idea stayed with "pretty pretty" as I thought of three things I love in a dress: chiffon, lace, and a deep, rich color. I went with this beautiful dark navy/black sheer chiffon (with a beige cotton underneath to give it an almost nude effect). The top has long sleeved chiffon with a plunging neckline, draped chiffon front. The waist is cinched with a black Alecon lace trim. The skirt of the dress would be the long, billowy chiffon. I want the end result to be feminine, sexy, and glamorous.projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-55772377938675056082011-08-10T19:56:00.000-07:002011-08-10T19:56:03.899-07:00First Project completed.This is my white super soft jersey pants - they are like sweat pants, but with more class. The green and white seersucker top I made from a vintage 80's pattern which I changed the neck line a bit, but it is super comfy, yet fashionable too. I wore this outfit to a wine tasting/training tonight, my second day at the new job, and a girl that I just met, asked me to make her a set. I think that a yellow stripe top would suit her nicely. And these pants are going to be her new favorite, I'm sure. They are stylish enough to wear out yet comfortable enough to sleep in. Tomorrow I will finish the red cotton poly blend jersey tank. <br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-76147206050476800782011-08-10T11:02:00.000-07:002011-08-10T11:02:12.148-07:00Project Runway Application Question(s) #1:Are you a fashion designer? Yes No (circle one)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Umm, Yes. I mean, YES! Yes, I am. After all, I sketch designs for dresses, then I figure out how to make them.</span><br />
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If yes, how many years have you been a fashion designer?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">One year. (approximately) I've been sewing for three years, but doing my own designs for almost a year.</span><br />
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Do you design for your own label full time? If you are designing for your own label, how long have you been in business?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Yes - Mousebee Couture. I opened an Etsy store in March of 2010.</span><br />
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Do you design for: Men Woman Both (circle one)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Neither - right now I design for girls ages 0-12, but I would like to design for women. And I promised Ben that I would make him something, too. He specifically asked for shorts, which is pretty boring, but whatever. And I have done a couple of boy's things - which I need to do more of on account of me knowing lots of little boys, including my own. Ok, so this was a pretty long answer to a question that just required me to make a circle.</span><br />
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If both, which gender do you prefer to design for? If you design for only one gender, why? What are the specific challenges or rewards of designing for each gender?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">I would prefer to design for women because it is more fun and less limiting. I do not think that my tailoring skills are up to making menswear right now, but creating clothes for men is definitely a future goal of mine. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Being a woman, there is the immediate reward of being able to wear the clothes I design. The challenge of women's clothes is learning all the techniques for of the fabrics and designs, but more importantly, coming up with something that is new. I love vintage looks, but combining vintage with modern has been done. And you don't want to design something so crazy just for the sake of being "new" that it completely unwearable. Also, I like clothes that are comfortable. It will be a challenge to not sacrifice style for comfort. (Honestly, I think in the far future, people will be wearing a sort of sari/toga garment because comfort will reign in the intellectually superior futuristic society. Although I hope there will still be a fragment of intellectually superior Fashionistas who will be rocking stylish sari/togas.)</span><br />
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What is/are your areas of expertise? Check all that apply:<br />
___Women's ready to wear<br />
___Women's evening wear<br />
___Women's avant-garde<br />
___Menswear<br />
___Accessories<br />
___Other (please specify below: swimwear, lingerie, activewear, etc.)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Other: Girl's wear, ages 0-12 BUT - ask me again later as I intend to branch out.</span><br />
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Please list any place your clothes are available for sale (including internet):<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">www.etsy.com/shop/mousebeecouture</span><br />
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What were your gross sales for your biggest year?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">$1229.35</span><br />
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Do you make a living as a designer or is this a hobby? If you do not currently make your living as a designer, how do you currently make your living?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Not yet. This is a hobby for now as I am a stay at home mom/part time waitress.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Well, number one was a pretty long "question," but it does give you some insight to the urgency of my need to get learning and sewing and creating. I have a long way to go, but I'm excited. This is going to be a fun "makeover" of myself. I'm not going to feel sorry for myself that I didn't focus my degree on design when I was younger; I don't want to think that it is too late for me. This is something that I love and I am not afraid to work hard and challenge myself. And this will keep my creative self alive as the monotony of dishes, laundry, diaper changing, etc. and the potential for the demoralizing after effects of waiting tables may try to get me down. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">Que: Baby waking from nap. Great time to wrap this up for today. I have finished my pants and will try to finish the top today. Stay tuned!</span><br />
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projectmousebeemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14477304852286887144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9146637794752117442.post-79547219398141540262011-08-09T11:51:00.000-07:002011-08-09T11:53:37.271-07:00Making a List...Currently I have been experiencing a creative explosion, but it has been hard to focus on one project at a time, seeing it through to completion. I am working on making some separates for me (a pair of white jersey cotton pants, a jersey cotton blend red tank top, a mid length black poly blend straight skirt with lining), a baby blanket for my husband's cousin's baby girl, and curtains for Lucy's room, which Ben painted for her over the weekend. The separates I am making for myself come from commercial patterns, but I do want to make my own soon, which I will do once I procure all the necessary tools. I have made my own girl's dress patterns, but they are less detailed. According to the beginning chapter of my book, there are some rulers that I'll need. <br />
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Meanwhile, I started my new job yesterday as my current one does not pay well. In fact, all I get now is room and board. And as I have loved being a full time stay at home mom, it will be nice to get out (and the money will be nice, too). I will be serving tables part time at a new restaurant opening here in town which stars an amazingly talented young chef who's expertise is in authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant hasn't opened yet, and this week we are just training. But once I've made some money here, I will get my needed tools to start my pattern making lessons. <br />
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But, back to my current projects, I will finish the pants, then the top, then the skirt, then the curtains, and lastly, the blanket (after all, the baby isn't due until October). So, there, I've made my checklist and I am committed to it. I will post my pictures of the done projects for you to see, too.<br />
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For fun, here are some examples of some of my flower girl designs creations:<br />
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