Doll Jeans

A while back I found this cute pattern for doll jeans.  I have been wanting to make it ever since!  Yesterday I finally decided to ignore the housework and sew these up for my daughters.  I used jeans that my son had outgrown - so all it cost me was the thread and a little bit of elastic.  I do want to see if I can adapt the pattern to do velcro up and around the inside seam.  The jeans are a bit of a tight squeeze over the feet and I just know this is going to turn into a mom can you.... so velcro would make it easier for my little ones to do it themselves.  Other than that I love how they turned out!!!!   I think I am going to let my 10 year old try to make a pair and see how she does.  There are some seams that are a bit tight, but I think with a few adaptations to the way it is put together I could make it a whole lot easier for a kid to do.  I don't think it is a good 1st project, but after a while a kid could attempt this. 

If you are looking for the pattern then here is the link:

http://www.libertyjanepatterns.com/2011/05/2010-liberty-jane-jeans-pattern-for-your-american-girl-dolls.html

Happy Sewing!

Sewing Machines

I often get asked what sewing machines I like.  My favorite for price, warranty and quality on a sewing machine are Janome machines.  These are not dirt cheap, but they are reasonably priced and should hold up better than many of the dirt cheap machines that you see out there. 

Remember to check both online and with your local dealer.  I know that my dealer will match prices you find online most of the time and you get your 1st year of service for free from him.  Sewing machines should get a cleaning and tune up every year or two depending on how often you use it and it is good to have someone local to do it.   

I use Janome machines in my classes and I have been very happy with them.   I have heard from a couple of dealers that the reason they sell this brand is because they have been fixing machines for years and it is the one that is reasonably priced and yet seems to have fewer problems than other brands in its price range.  Remember that this is my opinion so you should go to various dealers both to try out machines and to check prices.  If you would like the name of the local dealer that I use then send me an email or give me a call and I would be happy to share his information with you.