Sewing Time!!

I've had the chance to sew the last few days.  I managed to figure out how to sit at the machine and cutting table with my foot up!  How's that for desperation?!  I worked on some blocks for the block of the month club, which I've gotten behind on.  I'll show those another day.  Then I needed a quick finish so I whipped up a drink cozie.

Then I made a couple of purses.

They are loosely based on this pattern.

One is smaller than the other.  It is very similar to the one I made for Tasha. You can see it here.

 Always have to have some pockets inside.

The second one is a little bigger and a little more fru-fru.

 And of course, pockets on the inside of this one too!

I'm  not sure what I'm going to do with them, except that I have had several people that have asked about buying one.  I am also thinking about opening an etsy shop, but then I'm afraid I'd sew that stuff rather than just things I want to sew for family and friends.  What do you think?

Snow Days #1 & #2!

We were predicted to have 10"to 14" of snow between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday noon.  Many times we prepare for "the big one" and it never happens.  BUT, this time the meteorologists were absolutely right!!  We got out of school early on Tuesday, and we stayed home Wednesday and Thursday. I really was thrilled about Tuesday.  I can always use a break mid-winter, but I didn't really need Thursday.  Hopefully we are done with snow days now.

Staying home gave me some time to work on the benefit we are having for my brother-in-law who is dealing with esophageal cancer and can no longer work.  I've been busy contacting many businesses looking for things to donate and make some money to help them with their living expenses.  I've created a blog about it.  If you are interested you can view it here, or click on it in my sidebar--For Dale's Benefit.

I also got in some sewing time.  I've been working on a few Valentine's Day projects.  I have two things to sew binding on, and another thing to finish.  I did finish one little project.

It combines two things I love to do--embroider and sew!

And it just fits on this little stand I just bought.

Back to the real world tomorrow!!
 (On hard surface roads only.)

Which Sewing Machine?????

My brother and sister-in-law were very generous to me for my birthday.  Because of them I now get to purchase a new sewing machine. (Thanks Dean & Gay!)  I am currently sewing with my 1974 Kenmore 1603 ZZ.  It was my graduation gift from my parents that they gave me a year early so I could sew.  I have oiled and cleaned it regularly.  I hate to admit that I have NEVER had it serviced by a professional.  I have sewn MANY dresses, skirts, and blouse for my girls and myself, western shirts for Bud and Travis, crafts, and  quilts. I have patched endless pairs of jeans, overalls, and jackets. It has served me well, and my parents certainly got their money's worth out of it!

I have researched endlessly on the internet, and I have looked at some machines.  I have looked at  Janome, Brother, Elna, and Baby Lock machines.  Every machine is impressive.  I haven't allowed myself to look at machines over the years, knowing I couldn't buy one anyway.  Little did I know that they now thread themselves, cut the thread, have over a hundred different stitches in addition to the alphabet, can sew sideways, etc.  I could go on and on!  I'd really like to hear from someone who had first hand experience with any of these brands.  Any advice??