Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Beginner's Paralysis - Yeah, I have that.

Sigh, so I am feeling just a tad bit intimidated by my lovely new sewing machine. Yes, I fixed a few pairs of pants already (aka sewed a whooping 4 seams in semi-straight - ok, not at all straight- rows)...AND I have SO MANY IDEAS and have checked out so many books and have even more ideas - that I simply DON'T KNOW WHERE TO START!

I have a small stash of fabric - left over from various no-sew projects I've taken on in the past - but nothing that really coordinates or would even remotely work well together. So, I know a few trips to Joann's, Hobby Lobby and Michael's are in due order...but what to make first?!

Here's my list of things I want to make. Brace yourself - it's a whopper of a list!

(in no particular order)

1. Fleece and Cotton PJ Bottoms- pattern is from a book I checked out at the library
2. Bean Bag w/ Handle - pattern is from a book I checked out at the library


3. Bean Bag from Whip Up

4. Hammock- pattern is from a book I checked out at the library
5. Apron - pattern is from a book I checked out at the library
6. Napkins/Placemats - pattern is from a book I checked out at the library
7. Totes:


7a. Oh my goodness these totes from Hip to Pieces Squares are cute!


7b. Then there are these simple cinch bags from Craftzine

8. Cushion for Wicker Chair
9. Curtains?

10. Amy Butler's Birdie Sling
11. Potholders:


11a. Scrappy Hot Pad Tutorial



11b. Quilted Patchwork Hot Pads



12. Fabric Bookmarks from Anna Maria Horner



13. Linen Pear Sachets



14. Picnic Blanket with Rock Pockets



15. Tissue Holder



16. Pillows: More gorgeous goodness from Hip to Pieces Squares



17. Patchwork Ball

18. Amy Butler Business Card Keeper

Then I checked out Amy Butler's In Stitches Book...sigh...here more:

19. Decorate Patchwork Throw
20. Short Pleated Apron
21. Sleeping Mask
22. Bedside Organizer
23. Desktop Organizer

I have an ongoing list of projects in my Google Docs to keep it all organized. I think this phase happened when I started knitting, too. A kind of beginner's paralysis - where to start? What to make first? What fabric to buy? Do I need ribbon? Oh, this is on sale! What the heck is batting?! Ahhhh!

I will come out of it - I know - but...when?

4 comments:

Momma Val said...

Most sewing stores offer lessons if you need extra help. You can also take a look at my blog list and check out Momma Tried (Claire), she is sewing all time and makes the cutest stuff. Also Red Pens & Diapers (Cheryl) is currently making a quilt for me and she also is a sew-er of cute and great things. Both very down to earth and very nice if you need help or want to talk stitches.

Momma Val said...

Ooops, forgot to say that I wish I could start up sewing like that but it's not the right time (toddler). Looking forward to seeing what you make!

Stacy said...

Thanks, Momma Val! I've looked into classes at Joann's and they are kinda pricey! But I am sure I will break down and shell out some money sooner or later - it will pay off in the long run I am sure! I will have to check out other stores as well. Thanks for the links to your bloggy friends - I am sure they will be of great inspiration!

Alisha said...

Cheese and Rice! I'm exhausted just reading your list. Coming from someone who cussed out her own sewing machine this week, I would start with the napkins/placemats if I were you. :)
Also- another big reason to come visit us: I discovered a HUGE (I MEAN GIANT) store full of designer fabrics here in High Point last week. There are such perks to living in the home furnishings capital of the world! ;)