Ventana Vest

 I made Diane Ericsson's Ventana Jacket and Vest in the Vest version this time. I had enough material left over from when I made the jacket to make a vest. A friend liked the jacket so much and the material, so I made her a vest.

I tried a little different technique with the pocket. I made a tube and hand stitched it on and stacked two buttons. She was really happy with it.

Fairy Garden

Yesterday I made this fairy garden. I used two broken pots set into a large pot. The little chairs reminded me of some that my grandparents had. Using your imagination and creating little things almost brings you back to childhood.

Fashion Show

 It was very nice to meet Rhonda Buss. She had several garments in the fashion show.

 There was a silent auction and I was able to win two of them. I found it interesting to see the pattern designers and instructors that influenced the mid-west. The women's garments were beautifully sewn. The women coordinated the color and textures of their garments so very well.

This group has been together for fifty years. They have a fashion show every year. There was a 1 1/2 hours of show of garments. Some of them must sew constantly. I was very impressed with what I saw.

Chicago

Look what they had for me to look at. 

I remember when my Father planted tulips every year in Minnesota. Their trees are beginning to bloom and leaf out. So pretty. Nothing like a beautiful spring in the mid-west. 

Haute Couture Club of Chicago

I am so excited. I am flying to LA today to be able to fly to Chicago tomorrow so I can see this Fashion Show and meet Rhoda Buss. 

Vest

 Really like this vest. I made it in a drape fabric so it will look nice when I put it over a knit top.

 It is easy to make and it goes fast. I have a black and white top which I think it will compliment. I made a small. I found that it runs big.

Ericson's Patterns

 I used Lois's vest pattern

 and Diane's pants pattern

 I know my eyes are shut which seems to be a common thing I do on picture taking.

 I used Japanese silk to piece the vest with and lined it with vintage kimono silk that I iced dyed. I used washers and little brass connectors from the hardware store for the ties on the front of the vest.

 I hand stitched designs on the front and back with black #5 pearle cotton thread.

 The pattern has several suggestions to inspire you into making your own pockets. I used some leather on the pocket and the legs.

Now I want to make another pair of pants and design some more pockets.