zakkaArt: Simple Happiness

Tutorial: Patchwork Lunch Shopping Bag

2011-09-22T23:33:00.000+08:00

I'm very honoured to be invited by Jo to share an easy tutorial over at her blog for her New Skills Festival!

It's very easy to sew. All you need is patience! I hope the tutorial is simple to comprehend. If you do have any questions, feel free to drop me a mail. I'll try to answer your doubts. ^_^

Just sharing what I'm busy with these days...

(Sorry if this picture looks weird. It's taken with my iPhone.)

Hoping to share more things very soon!

everyone is spoiling me... + giveaway winners

2011-09-17T01:21:00.001+08:00

I just had the craziest two weeks. No sewing, no computer. Only cooking, running after kids and all other chores. Can you imagine how sad I am everyday looking at my working table and fabrics?

The happy times I had were when the postman rang my bell and passed me parcels. Everyone is spoiling me.... all my lovely friends.

Thank you so much, Amy! Thank you for the prettiest pincushion! It's so much bigger than I thought and it's so well made. I love it alot alot and have not used it yet... just cannot bear to damage it. I love all the hand stitching details. And thank you for the sweet note too!^_^

A parcel full of beautiful things from Amy! Thank you so much, Amy! I'm so spoilt by you with all the beautiful fabrics and ribbon trims and cards! And the sweet note! When I opened the parcel box, I was so overwhelmed by everything inside and I took quite a while admiring them. Amy also sent me a few Atsuko Matsuyama fabric which I don't have! Yay! And a few other pretty floral fabric too! *hearts*

Aw... this is one very surprised parcel from Kristin. My heart is still fluttering looking at this lovely parcel from Kristin. She is such a sweetie! She bought some fabric from my destash a while ago and I did not know she has so many better fabric in her stash! She just sent me this parcel without telling me! *happy* I love every single piece of fabric from her. And the fabric tape she did. All are my treasures! Thank you so much, Kristin! *hugs*

A big parcel of Sarah Jane, Children at Play fabric! I just could not resist this range of fabric so I had to buy it all from Kerri!They are such a darling! So vintage prints. And the pretty pom-poms by Riley Blake are a must to have too. I'm waiting for them to make pillows! Thank you so much Kerri!

So can you see how much I'm loved by lovely people? That includes my family too! They are loving me alot too and that makes me a little happier at the end of each day.

Ok, to the giveaway winners. Sorry for the long wait! Thank you so much for all your comments! I had a good time reading all and it was so interesting to find out the different kinds of flowers everyone likes. I really googled some flowers that I don't know. It's very fun for me to read about them! Thank you everyone for sharing!

Now, here you go:

I'll go according to sequence as in the generator.

18: Kristinorth - book
2: Elena - fabric
6: Kerry - fabric
15: ZiaMaria - embroidery thread

I'll email all winners shortly.

now I feel so much better after blogging... time to sleep...

xoxo
wynn

a little something for myself & a small giveaway

2011-09-03T00:45:00.005+08:00

Early last week, I received a small parcel for myself. It made me a very happy woman.

The hello kitty stamps are really cute!

Fabrics from my most favourite Atsuko Matsuyama. Yes, I'm crazy over her prints. Very much crazy. So much so I have started a Flickr group for everyone to share the fabrics you have and the things you make from her prints. Please join us! All the fabrics above are bought from Lilymeru. I'm so glad to have found her shop in Etsy!

Ok now to a small giveaway as I promised...

There are four gifts for four lucky winners!

To join this giveaway, please leave a comment to share with us what is your most favourite flower! Yes, flower! Ok, I'm so in love with orchids. I see them everyday in our balcony! How about you? Which flower do you love the most? I will really be very happy to know!

Each person is entitled to only one chance for fairness. You can let me know which gift you would like to win!

I'll pick four winners on Sept 12. So, any entry before I pick the winners is considered valid.

Can't wait to share what I'm working on with the new fabrics... ^_^

Fat Quarterly Designer's Challenge - Basic Grey

2011-08-19T23:50:00.000+08:00

This is the project I have been dying to share for the longest time!

I don't know how to describe my feeling now that I can finally showcase what I have been working hard on last month. My heart is still pumping with excitement and nervousness!

Please hop over to Fat Quarterly's blog to read about what I did and done for this amazing project! Thank you Fat Quarterly and Basic Grey!

xoxo
wynn

p/s: a new giveaway is coming up real soon...^_^ follow my blog to be notified!

this week...

2011-08-18T23:58:00.000+08:00

This week was a tough one for me. I needed a break from home and kids.

So I went to Ikea today to shop and enjoy a cuppa coffee all alone. It was a good time alone. I spent time to think about myself, my life and what went wrong. And I went home a happier woman clearer of what I wish to do in my life and how much I love my children. Kids are happy too to have their happy and fun mommy back.

Now I'm feeling so much better. And so much looking forward to the rest of the week and years!

Anyway, here are some things I did this week... very slow sewing.

I love this slouchy bag. It feels lazy, just like me. And this lunch shopping bag. It's simple and so functional.

My 5th block for Farmer's Wife Quilt-a-long. This is the first time I'm not using Atsuko Matsuyama's fabric. Sorry for the crumpled and messy look. I was too eager to take this picture that I forgot to iron nor trim the thread ends.

Baby's breath bought from the market. I have made a promise to myself to buy fresh flowers every week to make our house happy and cozy.

Patchwork is my love! Working on a project to be shared real soon!

Aw... this is the project I'm going to share in tomorrow's blog post! Please come back and read what I have been up too!

Before I go.... did I forget to share what I bought from Ikea today? A big bad wolf fabric!

Farmer's Wife Quilt-a-long (1)

2011-08-11T00:53:00.000+08:00

I know I'm seriously lagging behind in this quilt-a-long but I'm trying hard to catch up. Perhaps I need to sit in front of my sewing machine for 24 hours a day and for a week before I can catch up.

This is the first ever block I made! It is the easiest block in my opinion.

My 2nd block and I love it alot! All my favourite fabric in yellow, orange, red and green. Florals and polka dots.

My 3rd block with yummy strawberries and "chocolate chips".

4th block. This block nearly killed me! Had a difficult time trying to align the small squares to the big one. But I like how it turned out. Nice.

Most fabric used are by Atsuko Matsuyama. Yes, again!

So, I only did four blocks out of 111. The rest of my group mates have done more than 20...?

somethings to share

2011-08-03T00:12:00.002+08:00

My sewing machine broke down last week. I was very sad and lost. Very sad. But... I kept myself busy with this project...

... all the handsewing has made me happy again. It's a very nice project. Can't wait to show you but I have to do a write up with pretty pictures first.

While my sewing machine is in the repair shop, I reorganised my fabric stash again. And, these are all what I have. Hubby always say I have way too many fabric but he has not seen other crafters' stash.... I think he will freak out when he does! I don't have many fabric actually and all my projects are worked around the fabrics above.

This is something I wish to share. Very beautiful floral paintings by very talented people. If you can, please do buy and encourage these special artists. I love these cards alot. And they are bought with a sincere and kind heart by my sweetest husband. <3

Tomorrow is Wednesday and I'll bring my sewing machine back finally. How I miss her.

slow week...

2011-07-26T22:57:00.001+08:00

It's a slow week for us this week. We are taking a step at a time.

Over the weekend, I went for some shopping for supplies that I have used up. But... as usual, I ended bringing home some really beautiful fabric.

Other than shopping, I baked granola bars too. My first try and mind you, it tastes really very nice. I'm not joking really. It's really very nice.

And very healthy too! Recipe is from here by La Fuji Mama, one of my most like food blogger. Her recipes are always easy, simple and most importantly, yummy.

Fresh strawberries are a treat now, especially when the weather is way too hot to do anything. But yes, I am continuing to sew quite a fair bit. I will show you soon.

hello little bear

2011-07-21T00:10:00.004+08:00

This is the little "something" I have been working real hard on this week.

It's a little bear for my sweetie pie!

I'm so happy how the bear turns out! It's oh-so adorable!

newly bought lace trims look great on little bear.

Hand stitching details using quilting thread.

Did I tell you little bear looks very much like chilli...? ^_^

Fabric: 30s by my most favourite Atsuko Matsuyama
Pattern: self drafted
(It's the same pattern as my previous patchwork bear. The only change is the size of the ears - shrunken position shifted slightly.)
Stuffing: recycled batting from used pillows. Little bear is soft and very cuddly!

I really enjoyed making this bear so much. Chilli is happy. So is mommy!

a happy post

2011-07-20T00:13:00.002+08:00

Our day didn't start off good. But it ended off with everyone happy. It's a blessing I should treasure.

The beautiful bougainvillas around my housing estate. It's summer time and they are blooming so so pretty everywhere.

The kids planted red beans to learn about plant life. Look at how beautiful the leaves are. And the way they grow in every direction.

The cupcakes I baked for our family gathering last weekend. It was a tad too sweet for us. Even the kids said so.

This is what I wanted to show you all! Sewing something for my little Chilli. She has been bugging me everyday and I can't wait to finish sewing it this week. Can you guess what is it? ^_^

Yippee! My book is finally here! Waited for the longest time (or maybe I just cannot wait to start sewing the blocks!) and I was so thrilled to see it in my mailbox that day! *see my grinning face*

My boy's drawing of me. His happy mommy with a smiling face and waving hands saying "Hi!". He drew me three buttons on my dress. Very sweet of my little sweet boy. He has been drawing so much lately with alot of imagination and creativity.

It's a happy post with lots pictures. Yes, today is really a happy day.

Patchwork coaster: Tutorial

2011-07-15T00:50:00.002+08:00

Thank you for your mails for liking the patchwork coasters I sewed previously. Some of you asked how I did it. So I did a simple tutorial on this.

1. Cut nine squares from your chosen fabric. Any size is ok. I cut mine 2.5" x 2.5". Lay out your desired arrangement.

2. Sew the squares row by row. After which, sew the rows together. Remember to align and pin carefully.

3. Now you get a nine-squares patchwork block. Press the seams open.

4. Turn over and place your block on a batting. I usually cut my batting a little larger than my block since quilting may pull and shrink the batting.

5. Quilting time (means sewing the block onto the batting). You can choose to sew in any way you like. Cross, diagonal, free motion... so long as the block and batting are sewed together. Here, I use stitch-in-the-ditch method.

6. Next, use a round object to outline the shape of your coaster. the object can be of any size, depending on how big you want your coaster to be. I use a bowl which happen to fit just perfectly.

7. Hooray! you are almost there! Now, choose a fabric for the backing and use the same object to trace and cut the shape out. you can choose to embellish your coaster at this point. Lace, buttons....

8. This step is optional. I added lace for my previous coasters for hanging purpose. For this coaster, I chose to use grosgrain instead. Cut 6 cm and fold into half and pin as in picture.

9. Place the backing and the block with RIGHT sides facing and pin. Sew 1 cm seam allowance around the coaster, leaving a 5 cm gap (between first and last stitch). The gap is for you to turn the coaster inside out.

10. Almost there...! Now snip around the coasters for easy turning out.

11. Hand-sew to close the opening of the gap (I use ladder stitch)before top-stitching around the coaster. A

And, ta-daa! your coaster is completed!^_^

Easy project right? Make for your family and friends as gifts, wedding favors, or just for your own home!

Note: You may use this tutorial to make coasters to sell. But... please add a credit to zakkaArt! Thank you!

cheater's embroidery...

2011-07-14T00:04:00.001+08:00

I'm not a cheater but I do like embroidery very much. However, embroidery takes alot of time to plan, sketch and stitch. So I very seldom do embroidery.

These days, I'm really itching to use my sashiko threads. They have been lying around for way too long. And when I saw this beautiful fabric online... I was smitten. I was all set to do a cheater's embroidery on this fabric with my beautiful sashiko thread.

This very pretty fabric is from Anna Maria Horner's Loulouthi collection Summer Totem/Tart. I bought it from FabricPalooza whose owner, Karen, is one of the most helpful seller around. As you can see from the picture, I just follow the outline of the prints and stitch. Easy peasy.

I'm still slowly stitching and enjoying the whole embroidery process.

A picture taken by my mum in a rose garden. It's on my inspiration board now.

p/s: coming up next post is a tutorial on patchwork coasters.

a dress for chilli

2011-07-05T17:13:00.000+08:00

This is a dress I sewed for my sweetie two days ago. It's my dream dress - floral, white, ruffles, romantic... The fabric is Flower Sugar from Lecien.

Zig-zag stitches at the botton of dress. It's a very simple dress to sew for someone like me who knows nuts about drafting or dressmaking. And yes, I will put off the idea of buying a serger for now since I'm quite comfortable using zig-zag stitches recently.

More dresses to sew for my sweetie... soon.

new stuff for the shop

2011-07-04T00:15:00.000+08:00

Busy with making new things for the shop. I'm really enjoying every minute of sewing.

I wanted an iPhone wallet for myself so when I chanced upon Keyka Lou, I was thrilled. Michelle sells the most amazing patterns around. This is a basic wallet pattern. The instructions are extremely clear even for a complete beginner. I added padding, grosgrain, O-ring and a swing strap to the wallet. The wallet is so handy that I have been using it everyday for the past week!

I love coasters but I never get to use them in my house. Maybe I just don't like to dirty them. The above coasters are made from nine-patch blocks I sewed quite some time ago. My initial plan was to sew a doll's quilt but I think I may not have time to do it anymore after my "The Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt" book arrives. So I use a round plate and cut the blocks up, added batting, backing and lace to turn them into patchwork coasters. The fabric used are mainly from Lecien Old New 30s collection.

I still have some more things to show but I need time to write. Only after kids sleep...

Hexagon Pillow

2011-06-14T01:19:00.001+08:00

I'm finally done sewing this hexagon pillow. I am so happy I managed sewing it only with my hand and not the sewing machine.

Each stitch is filled with nice thoughts of my kids and their sweetness. Chilli seems to like it alot.

This is the back of the pillow. I especially love this fabric from Lecien Japan but I forgot the name of this fabric. Can anyone tell me? The lace was added at the very last minute when I started sewing the binding. I thought something was lacking so I rummaged through my cupboard and found this beautiful lace...
I told hubby that this pillow must be passed down to our grandchildren. But he is worried this pillow will stink so much by the time our first grandchild is born.

I'll try to wash it more often.

she wore the dress today

2011-06-11T21:46:00.000+08:00

Chilli got to wear this dress today and she was thrilled. It looked comfy on her.

Now I think she needs a headband for her new dresses.

a little crazy over re-fashioning...

2011-06-06T00:43:00.002+08:00

Is it June now? I am still living in a daze. Where have I been? What have I been doing? I don't know. Ever since house helper is gone, I live a life of a typical housewife. All the washing, cleaning, mopping, cooking, feeding, kids running... I miss sewing very badly. I think my sewing machine misses me too. Every night after a hard day's work, I'm literally a log plopped onto my sofa or bed. And the next day of routine starts all over again.

Sorry for promising sewing updates in the last post. I tried to pick a needle but my mind failed me. All the tiredness and distractions.

Last week, my heart could take no more of no-sewing. So I picked out a shirt which was lying around in a small corner of my cupboard for too long and cut it up.

The shirt was from hubby. He didn't like it anymore so he passed it to me. How would I wear that shirt? Definitely not my style.

In my mind, I wanted to make a dress for Chilli so I just drew a simple pattern and added a pretty floral binding. The dress turned out sweet.^_^ This is my style.

This dress makes me realise I love sewing with knits! Simply because they do not fray like cottons so I didn't have to sew zig-zag stitches as sergings. I was very happy to discover this. But knits are quite "slippery" so I had to be a little slower during sewing.

And then, a little craze over re-fashioning started after this dress!

I took out an onsie and snipped away the bottom buttoned part and added cotton fabric strips to it to make a patchwork-like dress for Chilli again. This dress was the fastest I ever sewed. I was so proud of myself! Took only two hours from cutting to serging with zig-zag stitches.

I'm SO happy with this girly swinging pretty dress! It has my favourite patchwork style with fabric from the Old New 30s collection. And it fits Chilli so perfectly (i'll take a picture of her wearing it very soon).

I was actually thinking of adding a heart applique until I found these two cute fabric buttons in my box! Imagine my grinning face when I saw them! ^_^ They were from one of my Flickr pals and they are just perfect for the dress.

A good news is that I can start sewing more from next week when new helper comes! It has been such a long wait. And I'm also almost done with my hexagon pillow. It looks nice for a little cuddle. I'll share the picture with you soon.

Now for two pictures of Chilli pretty happy in her blouse and skirt I sewed for her some time back... ^_^

Enjoy the week ahead! ^_^

A nice break

2011-04-12T01:13:00.000+08:00

We had a really nice break to Perth the week before. Everything was so much slower in pace. It gave us a wonderful chance to wind down and enjoy the beauty of life.

Life was too good and I almost didn't want to come back home.

I will be taking a short break from the shop till May. Planning to spend more time with kids and family and also myself. Meanwhile, I'll be blogging more here while I catch up with sewing for my loved ones and our house.

Can't wait to share them here.

a happy news

2011-03-21T22:58:00.003+08:00

Thank you all for your encouragement in the Japan Earthquake Relief drive. Sales of the iPhone/iTouch sleeves has ended yesterday. All in all, USD126 is collected and is donated to Singapore Red Cross today.

Although it's not alot but every dollar counts! Thank you once again for your kindness. Please do continue to offer a little donation either directly to:

- Singapore Red Cross (via POSB/DBS internet banking)

or indirectly through purchases:

- SparkleThots
- Peppy Wanders
- theheydayshop
- zakka inspired
- jojoebi
- verypurpleperson

Appreciate lots!

For Japan... from our hearts

2011-03-16T22:52:00.001+08:00

With my heart, I wish to do something small to help in the recent Japan earthquake/tsunami.

I'll be donating ALL sales (excluding shipping fee) from my range of iPhone/iPod sleeves in my etsy shop to will be donated to Singapore Red Cross Organisation. Sale ends on Mar 20, 2011. Please help by buying a sleeve. Each sleeve costs just USD12. Every piece is sewn with love and sincerity. I'll draw a cheque and post it in the blog after sale ends.

Your every dollar means so much to the people who are braving through the disaster. Thank you so much for supporting. Please spread the message around.

In progress... + Peanut cookie recipe

2011-03-03T00:08:00.003+08:00

Hexagons. Why didn't anyone tell me hexagons are so addictive? I just cannot stop sewing them. Guess what I'm gonna make these pretty hexagons with....?

I'm a little obsessed with patchwork lately. I started learning to sew from patchworking and till now, I'm still loving every moment from fabric choosing to piecing. Although sometimes I feel it's kinda time wasting to patch so much for something so simple.

Just to share the drawstring bags I made for Meatball and Chilli. Obviously, they didn't know the purpose (even after explanation) so I was the one who lugged them all the way from house to house visit. But it's ok. I'll keep the bags till next year's new year for them to use again!^_^

Oh, before I forget (yes, I'm very forgetful), here is my recipe for the CNY peanut cookies. Sorry I know CNY has passed long ago... But I hope everyone can still try it when you are free.

---------------------------------------------------------------
Ingredients (makes one small tub):
200g plain flour
200g ground peanut powder
100g sugar (i used icing sugar for a smoother texture)
1/4 tsp salt
100g oil (i used my cooking oil - rice bran oil but you can use any type)
1/2 tsp baking powder

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 160oC and line your baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Mix all ingredients together to form a dough. A nice dough should not stick to your fingers.
3. Use a shape cutter (i used a round one from kiddos' PlayDough set) to mould the cookie dough to your desired shape.
4. It will be good to brush a little egg yolk on the cookie dough for more appealing look.
5. Into the oven for a good 15 min or until cookies turn golden brown.
------------------------------------------

Easy-peasy! Well, I only like easy recipes for my cooking. Lazy me!

Sewing for Chilli

2011-02-25T17:14:00.004+08:00

Lately, I have been itching to sew something for Chilli. A girl needs beautiful things to make her beautiful, isn't it?

So, I decided maybe I should sew her a skirt and a blouse since now she can walk. Wearing a skirt should look cute. Since it's my first time sewing garments using my own pattern, I opted for a really simple one... But it turned out to be not wearable!

I was so sad! Sewing a skirt is not exactly simple! I used half a fat quarter of fabric. This skirt looked good but it was too tight at the thigh area so Chilli could not walk up and down the steps or even sit down with ease. It looked like she was wearing a mini-skirt!

I did not want to feel disheartened so the next day I tried sewing again. This time, I used three quarter of a fat quarter fabric in total and thinking that perhaps cutting the fabric up to make a A-line skirt might do the trick... But I was wrong again.

This skirt was worse. I could not even pull it up Chilli's thighs! The waistband was way too small even for her petite frame. I was more disappointed.

Not wanting to give up and feeling a lil' frustrated with myself, I took out both skirts and snipped them off. And I just sewed and sewed with just a design in my mind. Patchwork swing skirt. And viola!

Does it look pretty? I love it to bits! Patchwork, ruffles, floral, polka dots, baby blue, pink and green... all my favourite!

And yes, Chilli loves the skirt too! ^_^

I am very happy with the skirt so I even sewed zig-zag stitches to replace serger stitches (usually I just use pinking shears). Now, Chilli can walk, sit, run and even jump comfortably with the skirt!

To match the skirt, I re-fashioned a plain cotton bodysuit into a blouse because I could not find one anywhere. Most blouses in shops have patterns or pictures on them and I don't like them. A plain white cotton blouse can complement the flowery/colorful skirts or bloomers I make for Chilli.

For the bodysuit, I just cut away the lower part of the body suit, sewed zig-zag stitches at the bottom (maybe I should really buy a serger soon) and finish off sewing the edge. Easy peasy!

Ah... I'm game to sew another skirt and a appliqued blouse for Chilli soon!

p/s: beautiful fabric used is from Tanya Whelan Delilah range (you can find them here, here and here)

Chinese New Year

2011-02-08T23:13:00.001+08:00

As much as I wish to blog, my hands are always occupied with everything. We just had some nice Chinese New Year family and friends get-together last week. Nice and cozy ones.

I made eight fishes from ang pows to decorate the pussy willows. I love the pink ones.

Meatball had a fun party in school on Chinese New Year Eve.

Chilli wore a sweet pink dress with many grosgrain ribbons on 1st day of Chinese New Year.

This is the picture of the felt floral pillow that I wanted to share. I used a tutorial from here to make. It's quite fun to make. Because I ran out of felt pieces (again!), I made a yo-yo (great tutorial from here) from my fabric scraps and put a vintage button at the centre to cover up. And I also sewed velcro tapes to secure the opening at the back. I specially chose this fabric from Lecien Old New Spaicy Scrap (you can buy it here) because the yellow circle design look like coins! Just right for Chinese New Year!^_^

Pretty occupied

2011-01-27T22:27:00.001+08:00

A busy week.

We celebrated Chilli's 1st birthday. It was a small and cosy family get-together and we enjoyed it very much.

I have been baking quite alot this week too. All for next week's Chinese New Year. Just today, I baked peanut cookie tarts and they taste heavenly.

Pineapple tarts are real yummy too. The tart dough is made using "rubbing in" method using my MIL's recipe (she loves her recipe).

I'll be baking more for my family and relatives for the next few days.

And also, I sewed a felt floral pillow case for my IKEA pillow. It looks pretty too. It's in the machine washing. I'll take pictures soon, together with other handmades I did during the last holidays. Now, I'm hoping for a sunny day tomorrow.

Tutorial: Zippered Pouch

2011-01-21T18:10:00.001+08:00

Here is the tutorial on zippered pouch. It's not difficult to make one. Perhaps some people have bad experience with sewing zippers on machine but it's actually relatively easy. Just a few practices and you will be breezing through sewing all kinds of zippers.

*All measurements includes a 1cm border.*

*Note: Zipper is opened all the way to the end before pinning.

*Note: Zipper is closed before pinning.

*Note: Center folded is exterior back fabric.

*Note: Bring the zipper head to halfway the zipper. This is to facilitate when you turn the pouch inside out.

*Note: Please be careful when you sew over the zipper. You wouldn't want to sew over the metal and break your needle! I'm guilty of this action when I first started to sew...

*Note: You can add grosgrain or lace at side of the pouch for attachments. I added a fabric tab.

Now you can sew many zippered pouches (this tute applies for pouches of all sizes except measurements) for your loved ones, family and friends, especially now that Valentines' Day is approaching? Pls let me know if you have any questions by leaving me comments. I'll try my best to answer them!

Enjoy sewing!

A New Year. A New Life.

2011-01-20T11:17:00.004+08:00

Hi there! Happy 2011! It has been a while since I update my blog... Yes, I'm guilty of poor time management. I cannot remember where all my time went to for year 2010. I only know my time was all for my kids. So I was left with very little time for myself. But I was still contented.

This year, I decided to start afresh. To have a new life. To start exercising. To craft and sew. To meet up with my friends. To go out more often for a breather. I think it's time to reconnect with myself again.

On a happy note, my kids are growing well and happy! They make me feel so blessed. Meatball started a new school while Chilli started walking.

As I always promise about blogging more often, I fail to keep my promise. This year, it will be easier for me to find time. Sometimes I wonder why people can blog everyday when it seems so difficult for me to do so. But again, I'll try.

I'll show some pics of the handmades I made over the holidays last year.

& this year, I'll be sharing tutorials. It's a joy to share and learn from each other, isn't it? Next post tomorrow will be a tutorial on zippered pouch (as promised to a friend).

Here's something I made yesterday. A lantern from red packets. Chinese New Year is coming.

Hope everyone is doing very well.

xoxo

p/s: my shop is opened now.

Hello Kitty pouches

2010-09-30T23:38:00.001+08:00

Working on these pouches made me fall in love with this cutie all over again. I don't have any Hello Kitty stuff at home but I think I will buy some very soon. Chilli will love them too.

A peek at my working table...

2010-09-24T20:02:00.001+08:00

My very small working table in a mess.

Sometimes I wish I can have a sewing room instead of just a small sewing table... But maybe, I should be contented to be able to do something I like.^_^

Hoping this week will pass a lil' faster

2010-09-23T00:03:00.000+08:00

This week has been tough. Chilli is down with bronchitis. Serious coughing and roller-coaster fever. Today is the 5th day. She is still coughing but still as active and cheeky. I still hope that this week will pass a lil' faster so that she can recover very soon.

A nice morning walk in the park. It was a breather to bring her out after so long.

zy in Japanese Yukata for his Mid-Autumn festival celebration in school. He is so shy! ^_^

I have alot of sewing to catch up. I hope to take some time to replenish my sewing supplies this week too. Sorry for waiting for your orders! Meanwhile, I'm trying to make a doll's quilt for my own interest... ^_^

Life is definitely happier

2010-09-13T10:52:00.004+08:00

Three days ago, I was still a lil' grumpy & resentful & unhappy about life. About the life I chose and the life I was leading.

But since yesterday, I'm feeling like a whole new person.

It's about realising that I have lost my old self. It was an awakening moment for me and I felt so sad for myself for changing for worse over the past 4 years.

I hope it's not too late to be a better person now.

Over the long weekend, I finally understood how simple things we do as a family can bring so much happiness. We went to a goat farm followed by a vegetable farm. We were feeling easy & relaxed despite the scorching sun. It was a happy day.

We went to Elmo Show too. It was good. I think Little Chilli enjoyed it more than zy though.

After show photo & my most favourite family photo for the moment (even though the kids are still looking somewhere more interesting?).

Watching Ellen Degeneres show on TV now. I used to dislike her alot all because I was biased. Actually, the show is rather nice.

It's September...?

2010-09-02T22:50:00.008+08:00

Sometimes, I cannot believe how time really flies. It's September. Almost Christmas. Three quarter of 2010 has gone. And my little chilli is already 7.5 month-old. What have I achieved? Other than my weight (which is not moving any further down), everything seems to change for the better.

I have been working on wristlet clutches. It was a sudden idea one morning when I woke up. And I'm glad they turned out nicer than I thought. Now I can use the many beautiful fabric I have bought over the two years.

There are so many things to do in September. So hopefully, September will not pass so fast. I need the time.

Oh, I wish for a little makeover for the house too. Maybe a fresh coat of paint on a side of the wall? IKEA shopping is a must soon. So September is the month of busy-ness.

Everyday is very much a routine now. It feels good somehow. But I need excitement sometimes. So I sit at my sewing table and day dream.

I'm dreaming of going to Japan next year.

Yes, dreaming.

a little quiet time after nap...

2010-08-21T23:12:00.002+08:00

my sweetie.

p/s: a batch of wristlets are on the way to the shop soon.

Yay! Quilt for Little Chilli is completed FINALLY

2010-08-12T12:02:00.005+08:00

I finally completed handsewing this quilt for little chilli.

Altogether, I spent maybe 3 months to sew? Because handsewing takes up alot energy & effort so I felt a little lazy along the way. But I'm glad I managed to push myself to finish sewing this quilt. Now it looks like a lap quilt instead.^____^ (sorry, the picture is not well taken in the early morning. Day lighting was not good. I will take a better picture again soon).

I used flannel as the backing for comfy feel. For the next quilt for zy, I've decided to machine sew. Hand quilting is tedious with a tiny needle.

Initially, I did not like the fabric as binding but I did not have a choice at that moment. Now the more I look at it, the more I love how the binding complements the quilt design.

I hope little chilli will love it as much as I do!

a good news and a bad one

2010-08-02T22:41:00.007+08:00

Here is the good news.

I have finally made fabric labels for my sewing after so long ^____^ I really like them very very much.

And now the bad news.

zy is down with HFMD (hand foot mouth disease). It's the 2nd time and it's real bad this time. =( Little chilli and I have shifted to my maiden home since last week. HFMD is an infectious disease so we wouldn't want to risk little chilli (she's still a baby!). I'm feeling so sad since I cannot be there taking care of zy when he needs me the most. As a mother, I feel like a failure.

Anyway, this means I have no access to my sewing machine and fabric until next week. It'll be a quilting retreat for me this week. To finish up little chilli's quilt.

All custom and wholesale orders status will be contacted via email. Thank you alot for your patience.

pictures shall speak...

2010-07-30T11:47:00.007+08:00

Since I do not have much time to write, I shall let the pictures speak for me.^____^

A money pouch for my mom in her favourite florals and lace.

My 1st every patchwork project. It's a bear for zy (but I doubt he appreciated that since he is a boy!). I made this 2 years ago. Now then I realise that the pretty fabrics are from Flea Market Fancy by Denyse Schmidt & Robert Kaufman??

Latest addition to the shop. I call it a slouch bag. Love the pretty cotton linen & checkered fabric (IKEA)

Erratic weather in Singapore. Very hot and blazing one moment and thunderstorm the next moment. I think everyone needs an umbrella here.

NEW zA bags

2010-07-16T22:53:00.010+08:00

Here are the new bags I sewed last week. Everyday, I stole a few minutes to sew (looking after the kids takes up most of my waking and even sleeping time).

Lovely Rose Mint

Splashy Rose Persimmon

I really had no idea how to name the bags (maybe, my brain is too occupied to think) so I called them zA bags. Yes, zA means zakkaArt. Hahaha. Sounds kinda weird to me now. But if they sell well, it will be a signature name. ^____^

Everyday now, I have to "homeschool" zy since he is only in half day childcare now. It's really tough sometimes to manage two kids who are fighting for my attention.

This week, we are into "pets" topic. And we did a rabbit mask.

I could not stop laughing when I saw what he drew for the rabbit's face. For a 2.5 year old, I think he is amazing. ^________^

A library trip, treasure found.

2010-07-11T17:55:00.002+08:00

I love to go to the library. When I was schooling, I used to hole up in the library reading.

Today, we brought zy to the library (after a long lapse) and to my amazement, I found this book!
Perhaps, I did not expect to find a book about quilting in the children's section. But this book is like a treasure found for me.

It even shows the how different quilt designs came about. Love the illustrations. ^____^ I'm tempted to do a dresden plate soon.

And we ended the trip with a treat at Starbucks. Our favourite super chocolatety muffin. It was heaven.

Shop re-opens!

2010-07-08T22:43:00.009+08:00

I'm so happy!^___^

The picture above shows some of the new things I have listed in the shop. I'm introducing flex frame pouches because they are really useful & practical. Well, I was kinda tired using/making zipper pouches so I thought perhaps, flex frame pouches can be popularised just like zippered pouches.

And, the pouches are very easy to use!

And and, I found someone who loves flex frames like I do. Pink Penguin does! She even came up with a fantastic tutorial on puffy pouches. I would love to try this tutorial some day soon!

Busy like a bee

2010-07-05T22:01:00.007+08:00

I'm not as hardworking as a bee, of course. But, I'm busy like one. occupied with kids (the usual) & sewing!

First, I want to share with you something I made for myself.^___^

My 1st ever pin cushion! Haha. I know it may sound ridiculous... But I never had a pin cushion for as long as I'm sewing. Everytime after sewing, I just "dump" all my pins in the box so I never saw a need to make one. But now, I know the joy of having your very own pin cushion! I feel so happy just by looking at it everyday!

Here is my pin cushion "at work".=P

I have been making a few things for the shop.But I cannot find time to log in to list. When the kids sleep at night, I already feel exhausted!

Here is one of the items I made.

Flex frame no-zip pouch - happy patch

I'm lousy at giving nice names to my creations. Maybe I should read up the theasaurus more often.

Will try blog more often since I have so many pics to show!

New banner!

2010-06-10T22:55:00.004+08:00

I cannot believe I made my very own shop & blog banner! Yay!! **dancing with joy** Since I'm not tech-savy, I consider this a very good accomplishment. I used Picnik to do the banners. It's free and not so difficult to use, I reckon.

It's my favourite green and floral fabric. I really feel very happy now!

Do you think it's nice?^___^

What I have been doing...

2010-06-08T12:02:00.004+08:00

I have not been lazy. Sometimes, yes. Hubby said last night, "Your shop is idling." -__-"

I am working on new stuff for the shop. But... I'm still not ready to reopen the shop. Maybe next week? Still, my fabric labels are still in designing process. Ok, this part, I admit I'm lazy. Ever since the shop was started, there is no shop fabric label for all the stuff I have had made. Well, I did not see a need to tag. But now, I have to do it since this is gonna be a business, not just a hobby anymore.
Messy table. My table has never really been organised anyway.

Some of you asked me about my sewing machine. Ta-daa! This is the one I "inherited" from my mom. Or rather, I "snatched" from her since my previous machine was giving me headaches.

This machine sews like a breeze! It's a really simple, basic and afforable sewing machine. No embroidery function or anything fancy. Well, I saw my dream machine that day and it costs a whooping USD$4000!

My Fabric Stash

2010-06-01T14:54:00.002+08:00

After a year of proscratination, I finally re-fold, re-organise my fabric stash. Look at the pretty colors! This is what I have after two years of collection. Hm. I think I have more reasons to go on a fabric shopping spree real soon!

I'm very happy!

2010-05-28T10:08:00.003+08:00

It has been a crazy week for me! Since it's the last week of school term, the students were occupied with a series of learning journeys.

Beautiful NEWater centre. The place is really very nice. I'm tempted to bring zy and babyY there someday soon.

Beach cleaning. It was sad to see that the beach was full of rubbish. The students picked cigaratte butts, plastic bags, broken pottery... many more and even soiled diapers!

Anyway, if you do follow me at my twitter, I was very pissed at work! It made me sooooo frustrated. But, the good news is, I've resigned! Yeah! This means I can concentrate fully on my sewing passion! And, of course, to be with my children every single day.^________^

It's a dream come true. I'm really very happy now!

Sew, Mama, Sew May Giveaway Winner

2010-05-24T16:29:00.001+08:00

Hi there! It has been a crazy week for me and I can't wait for all this to end (if you do follow my twitter posts).

But luckily, all your comments for the giveaway brighten my day! It's fascinating to know that everyone is doing different kinds of crafts at the same moment. Sewing clothes, quilts, aprons, dolls, placemats, bags, pouches... Or, knitting owls, dishclothes, sweaters, granny squares... Or, scrapbooking, making hair bows/clips, cards... And many, many others!

Thank you everyone for your comments! I love reading every single comment and somehow, I'm inspired to make so many things in the months to come. ^___^

Okie, here is the winner for the giveaway.

Magdelena from The Craft Revival!

"Really cute fabrics you're giving away! This month I'm working on new softies which I'll be selling at markets in and around Melbourne as well as some custom orders. This additional fabrics would really come in handy!"

Congrats!! I'll email you shortly!

Missing giveaway link at Sew, Mama, Sew

2010-05-19T17:34:00.004+08:00

Oh dear! My giveaway link at Sew, Mama, Sew is missing! It may have been missing for a couple of days. Sorry if it was difficult to find my website. I may extend the giveaway for another day to make up for the missing days.

*Edited: The link is back! I'll extend this giveaway for another day till 21 May!^_^

Birthday Surprises

2010-05-17T20:21:00.007+08:00

I love birthday surprises. Who doesn't, right?

jw surprised me with my favourite cake all the way from Japan. This cake is one of our most favourite and a must-eat whenever we go to Japan. It is made of many layers of crepes with an unforgettable lingering vanilla cream between the layers.I'm not sure of the name. Maybe can someone tell me?

This is a nice surprise. Plus a pretty gift as well.^_^

My 2nd birthday surprise is from my cheeky boy. He gave me the biggest shock by "flying" down a flight of stairs at the garden while riding on his toy car! I still have nightmares whenever I close my eyes! Now, his chin is terribly scratched with a slight chip in his front tooth.

This is not a nice surprise...

My 3rd surprise is babyY can flip (from tummy-down position) now! It came as a delightful surprise to me since she is only 3 and half month-old. I'm so happy!

p/s: thank you all my family and friends for all your well wishes and heartful gifts!

Sew, Mama, Sew: May Giveaway Day!

2010-05-16T07:26:00.003+08:00

Yeah, as promised, here is the giveaway in conjuction with Sew, Mama, Sew's May Giveaway Day!

I'll be giving away 4 fabric stashes, some sewing notions, buttons and a handmade zip pouch!

To win this bundle, all you have to do is to leave a comment in this blog and share with us what you are crafting at the moment in May. Sewing, scrap booking, knitting, painting... whatever craft you would like everyone here to know.

One lucky winner will be picked on May 21!^_^

Tired me + Giveaway Winners!

2010-05-07T17:32:00.008+08:00

Resumed teaching job this week and it was hell tiring for me... and everyone else! Our routine was upsetted. And babyY is having a bad time adjusting. How I wish I could just resign and go!

Anyway, I'm really quitting teaching to stay at home for the kids. And I love the idea of being with them all day. I know I sound crazy but it's true!

Now now now, here comes the giveaway winners!

Well, I thought of doing the hardworking way to write down all participants' nick names and draw them by hand. But it really proved to be hard work! And zy messed up all the papers on the floor after picking out the winners! He refused to take pictures too! Argh!

So... the winners are:

Parcel 1: chihuahua1995

Parcel 2: highwaycottage

Parcel 3: chick chick sewing

Congrats and Thank you so much for all your comments! I love reading every comment and I read all of them twice!^_^

p/s: A new giveaway (yes, again!) in conjunction with Sew, Mama, Sew's Giveaway week is coming soon!

Hand Quilting Tutorial 1 (maybe a different kind of quilting method?)

2010-04-26T17:54:00.016+08:00

Last night, I popped by one of my favourite sites. It's by Anna Maria Horner and her hand quilting tutorial. Her tutorial amazes me as I do quilting in a rather different way.

So here I am, sharing my version of hand quilting method (since I'm in the progress of quilting babyY's quilt too).

First, you need a good quality quilting thread and a quilting needle. I use a really small quilting needle from Clover since that's what I only have. Some people use embroidery thread and needle. It's fine too.

Cut your batting slightly bigger than your quilt top as the batting will sort-of "shrink" during quilting. Lay the quilt top on top of the batting on the floor and secure the two layers with safety pins. NOTE: I choose to omit the backing for quilting because I do not want my stitches to show at the back. And also to save trouble of making sure my stitches are even at front and back.

Always start quilting from the centre so that you can still manage the creases made upon quilting.

I like to put safety pins around the area which I'll quilt. I do not have a quilting hoop or frame since I don't think I need one anyway.

Start with a back-stitch with your knot at the backing (see here on how to do a quilter's knot).

Then, create as many stitches as you can without pulling the needle out. I usually make 5-7 stitches at a go. It will be good if you have a thimble to help you push the needle through the thick layers. I wear a metal thimble (for short needles) on my middle finger.

This is how your stitches will look like when you pull the needle out. Make sure your stitches are almost the same length and even (maybe less than 0.5cm per stitch).

You can make a back-stitch after every 5-7 stitches. I'm lazy so I make one at about 10-12 stitches. A gap is created to make space for a back-stitch.

Continue stitching and end with a back-stitch. And yeah, now you finish quilting a section and slowly, finish quilting the blanket.

I'm not sure if anyone shares the same hand quilting method as me. Pls share with me!^_^

Giveaway time!

2010-04-22T14:44:00.005+08:00

Yeah! For this giveaway, I will be sending 3 parcels to 3 lucky readers.

1st parcel: Shinzi Katoh Mon Peluche small carry-bag + surprise goodies

2nd parcel: 4 fabric stash + a small bag of sewing notions + surprise goodies

3rd parcel: 3 fabric stash + a small bag of buttons + surprise goodies

Just leave a comment in this post and let me know which parcel you would like to have. Pls tell me a little about yourself too so we can get to know each other!

Giveaway will end on Apr 30!^_^

Slow pace...

2010-04-20T22:36:00.005+08:00

This is what I have been doing these days. Quilting babyY's quilt at a very slow pace. I'm still halfway through zy's quilt top. Everything is moving so slowly. Even my shop has take a back seat, coz' I simply cannot bear to leave babyY alone playing by herself while I do my work.

Look at my sweetie's face! She is such a happy baby. It's me playing with her. Well, I play with her the whole day every single day! ^_^

p/s: Giveaway up next post!

my lunch

2010-04-08T22:44:00.001+08:00

A diet salad, in my sense.

I need to slim down and fit into my Uniqlo jeans.

Today

2010-04-06T10:24:00.000+08:00

Today I walked (instead of taking a bus) to fetch zy from school. It was a good walk and I managed to take some pictures along the way (my camera battery nearly die on me!)

Finally reached the school after a 20 minute walk under the hot sun. I am a little tan now.

Beautiful garden but it was too hot to enjoy.

zy and me

Maybe I can walk again tomorrow. It helps me lose weight too!

What I have been doing

2010-04-05T22:44:00.002+08:00

I have been busy! Yes, busy being a mother to my two angels!

Time just flies. Thinking that I have to start working again next month makes me a little sad. Four months of maternity leave is just not enough.

Anyway, I have not been sewing much (again!). I tried but everyday is a challenge for me to find some private time to sew. Everyday is pretty much a routine: Waking, feeding, bathing, napping, fetching, strolling, playing, reading, sleeping. Where can I find time for myself?

As for BabyY, she has been easy to please so far (although I can sense that she is starting to show her character...). She loves to play, smile, coo, babble, listen to music. I talk to her alot. And the funny thing is, she loves to talk to me too. So it's always a conversation between us.

BabyY at 2-month-old

There are so many things on my to-do list! Perhaps, I will have a giveaway soon. And of course, I have not forgotten about the scrunchy tutorial (which I promised before giving birth to BabyY?). There is a stack of cut fabric waiting for me to sew... pouches, totes and clutches. I was intending to sew a few totes for Spring collection but I guess I need more time.

BabyY's quilt top is ready too. It took me quite some time to get it done. Now I need to buy batting. When should I go for sewing supplies shopping?

Oh well, I still have to make zy's quilt too before I forget.

Stay tune for the giveaway!

Wedding... Spring

2010-03-17T00:45:00.004+08:00

I have always wanted a Spring wedding. I think it would be very nice to have a small and cozy garden wedding with cool breeze and blooming flowers everywhere.

Well, it was just a dream since we do not experience the four seasons here, except hot summer.

Today I made this wedding favor using chopsticks pair as my guide. I love how it turned out. Perhaps, it's the fabric that makes the keepsake more beautiful.

What I am doing...

2010-03-14T23:22:00.007+08:00

I try to sew but I hardly do nowadays. Since babyY is always wanting to be carried, I have no free hands or time to sew. This is only what I have been doing lately...

Counting squares for babyY's quilt

On a happy note, I repaired my sewing machine by myself! *clap clap* Well, this means... there goes my dream to buy a new one.

Anyway, zy has been trying to annoy me these days and I'm learning to take control of my temper on him. He seems better today.

BabyY is growing well too. She sleeps alot and it's good as it helps her grow better. She is a smart baby. That day, she smiled at me genuinely for the first time (babies do not smile genuinely till 6-week-old or older) and my heart melted at that very moment...

Back to crafting

2010-03-05T23:55:00.004+08:00

I'm back to crafting!

Garden Zakka Purse

Just as I was so happy about being back to sewing, my sewing machine stopped working! I am so sad! Thinking about it, perhaps it's time to buy a new sewing machine, since my best buddy is the most basic sewing machine available in the market and it cannot seem to fulfil my needs in sewing anymore.

Anyway, just when I'm feeling a lil' lost for not sewing for the past few days, my parcel of pretty fabrics from FatQuarterShop arrived!

Beautiful fabric from Sandi Henderson

Charm packs from Moda

They are really sooooo pretty!! I'm going to start making the kids' quilts with the charm packs tomorrow!

Hooray!

2010-02-23T13:28:00.005+08:00

Hooray!! BabyY is finally one-month-old!

A picture of BabyY taken at her party last week

Perhaps it's our 2nd baby, we are more relaxed and less paranoid when taking care of BabyY. Or maybe, she is an easy-going baby who never fusses or cries (we are very thankful for that). But, she grunts alot! We were rather surprised to hear her grunting so much especially when she sleeps. It sounded disturbing and worrying initially but now that we are used to it, I find it rather cute. Haha. Some people call it the Grunting Baby Syndrome and it's actually harmless.

And well, I started my shopping spree alot lately! Fabric, fabric, fabric. It's like I have been deprived of fabric shopping. It's madness. Spending over USD80 at FatQuarterShop on charm packs (for the kids' quilts coz I wish to save time in cutting fabric and messing up the whole place again) and several half-yards from Sandi Henderson's Meadowsweet collection. They are gorgeous.

I'm a little fed-up with SingPost too. First, they lost my parcel nearly 3 months ago. Despite having submitted a please-help-me-look-for-my-lost-parcel form and many phone calls (which are always directed elsewhere), they still have not got back to me. And this week, they failed to deliver my parcel again. Hey, it's Speedpost. Why should I pay so much more for Speedpost if I cannot get my parcel speedy enough? I don't understand at all.

Anyway anyway, I'll be back to sewing soon. I want to open my shop soon!

3 more days... happy

2010-02-17T10:55:00.007+08:00

Another 3 more days to the end of my confinement! *Yeah!*

I'm happy because I'm blessed with two beautiful children. To be able to spend time with your children is a real blessing and I cannot spending a day away from them.

Yesterday, I found this website and it makes me very happy too. I think anyone who sews will know this site, BurdaStyle. I'm slow to discover! There are so many free clothes patterns to download.Well, now I think I may not have enough fabric to satisfy my sewing craving...

I like this:

Alexander Blouse

It's flirty and pretty! But the pattern is not free... Maybe I'll buy next time when I have more time to sew something for myself.

Somehow, I neglected him

2010-02-10T13:17:00.004+08:00

Ever since BabyY came into our lives, zy has been behaving in a way that makes me frown. First, he would not stop screaming from the moment he is back from school. Then he started throwing all sorts of tantrums that really made me mad. And he stopped listening to me and all his affections to me.

It was only yesterday that I began to accept the fact. The fact that somehow, I have neglected him all these while.

Even though I tried my best to read to him after BabyY sleeps at night, it did not really help. Since in zy's eyes, I'm always carrying and feeding his baby sister. And I no longer bring him to the playground or fetch him from school like what I always do even when I was heavily pregnant. And we even stopped going to the supermarket (our favourite past time) or weekend breakfast together as a family.

But I never stopped loving to him.

It breaks my heart to see his sad face. I don't want him to be sad.

Another two more weeks to the end of my confinement. How I wish time will pass faster.

p/s: BabyY's jaundice is up again. I'm worried.

love and patience

2010-02-08T21:09:00.005+08:00

Despite being much smaller in size, baby has a HUGE appetite. Just last night, I latched her for more than two hours. Feeling hungry and tired, I almost ran out of patience. After taking dinner, I decided to latch baby again and finally, she fell asleep.

Her face is so beautiful...

Love and patience are all that she needs.

I'm tired but happy...

2010-02-04T22:56:00.004+08:00

Everyday passes very fast for me. I'm tired but happy. It's 11pm now but instead of sleeping, jw and I are still watching American Idol (Season 9). It's the only time we can sit together, drink a hot cuppa and talk about the day.

Baby will wake up in an hour or so soon...

I better grab a bite now before she wakes up.^_^

xoxo,
wynn

two loves in my life

2010-01-31T20:13:00.002+08:00

zy loves his baby sister alot. Sometimes it's too overwhelming that he hurts her unconsciously. jw is fearful while I'm trying to teach zy to be gentle and soft. It takes time but it does not matter to me. So long as zy loves his baby sister.

zy and baby are the two loves in my life. They make my life more complete than ever.

These days are busy with feeding baby, resting, eating and reading/playing with zy. Hardly any time for me to sit down and read. I feel like sewing but I cannot. Because my vision will be blurred if my eyes are strained during confinement, according to the chinese belief. So I can only think about sewing in my mind.

I have lots of things to sew. Two quilts (one for zy and the other for baby), a bible cover (for a customer who has been so patient and understanding to me)..... I hope to catch up with sewing soon.

Love

2010-01-29T13:55:00.003+08:00

Motherhood is never easy although I enjoy being a mother so far.

Baby is down with jaundice and has to be put under hospital care for a couple of days. It pains my heart to leave her all alone in the hospital so as frequent as possible, I will make a trip down to, at least, cuddle her and tell her how much we love her.

But baby is a feisty little girl without crying much in the ward if she is fed full. I, on the other hand, busy myself with expressing milk at home so that I can provide her with the best nourishment.

Cheeky baby at home on the third day.

Tired but I'll stay strong and positive for my children. Thank you all for your concern and well wishes.

xoxo,

wynn

Blessed with baby, again

2010-01-27T17:05:00.006+08:00

We are back home, with our new bundle of love and joy!

Excited

2010-01-22T12:19:00.004+08:00

I'm feeling very excited now. We will be going to the hospital tonight.

Pls wait for our good news!^_^

p/s: The shop will be closed for a month! I'll be back in March!

Keeping occupied

2010-01-18T14:35:00.000+08:00

I'm keeping myself occupied by resting, eating, sewing, sleeping and playing with zy. The wait for baby to arrive seems long for us.

Currently, korean strawberries and kyoho grapes from Japan are in season now. They are very delicious. zy and I love eating them so much that we eat them almost everyday.

I did a little fabric printing too on the pouch I did some time ago. I love fabric printing, especially on linen.

I also sewed a Japanese kind of coin pouch with a flap but I thought the design is not nice. So I'm not listing it in the shop.

A tutorial on scrunchy is coming soon!

Happy work

2010-01-15T09:38:00.007+08:00

Finally I sat at my sewing machine yesterday and sewed my dream purse.

It is my dream purse because it's simple and practical with compartments for notes, coins and cards. And I sewed it with my favourite french linen, floral and polka dots cotton fabric, lace and vintage dollie.

This purse is one of my happiest sewing work till now!^_^

Hand + sewing

2010-01-12T23:15:00.004+08:00

It's a relaxing pleasure to hand sew. I have been hand sewing alot these days. My sewing machine is kinda lonely but the moment I sit in front of my sewing machine, I feel like going away.

These are what I sewed for the past few days.

Goodies Pouch - Country

Pretty scrunchy (for Girls)

I was planning of doing a tutorial for scrunchy but I thought is it too simple? Or should I do a tutorial for goodies pouch instead? Please let me know. I would love to hear your comments.

hi there! I'm nesting...

2010-01-07T09:58:00.009+08:00

Thank you everyone for your mails and concern! I'm still around... Just trying to rest as much as possible before our little princess arrives. Yay! Today marks the 37th week of my pregnancy, meaning baby is full term and I'll probably deliver anytime from today..? I'm feeling a little nervous and excited. I'm feeling like a first time mom all over again.

I have so many pictures to show and so many things to tell (after not blogging for 2 months?) The past 2 months had been fulfilling. I took alot of time to rest and eat (since doctor commented that baby is much smaller compared to zy so I am determined to beef her up). I did not sew alot although my hands were very tempted to pick up a needle and thread.

Sunflower blooming makes me very happy.

A budding artist trying to paint. We bought the easel from Ikea and it is one of the most well invested toy we ever got for him.

jw had been trying to make me happier with bouquets of my favourite orchids.^_^

A mini purse I sewed. I have been using alot of pink hello kitty fabric lately. I think baby princess loves pink. Or maybe, hello kitty? =)

We went to see the merlion and had a nice dinner during christmas eve.

So that's me with my dearest!

Right now, I'm walking like a penguin with a big ball (that's what zy always refer to my tummy). Sleeping has been quite disturbing with me waking up several times a night to go to the washroom. And zy had been very sticky to me, wanting all my attention.

But all is ok for me. I enjoy family life. I just can't wait to hold baby in my arms.

p/s: If I have the time next week, I'll post a tutorial on making scrunchy! That will be my gift for my loving readers!

What I wish for X'mas...

2009-11-25T22:54:00.005+08:00

A pretty maternity dress! Oh... I think I need one since I have not been buying maternity clothes from the very beginning...

This beautiful dress from Grosgrain is exactly what I am looking for...

An early christmas?

2009-11-17T11:14:00.003+08:00

Nope. At least, not for zy.^_^

We set up our christmas tree last night and zy was overjoyed! Not just overjoyed but he was very very very very very happy. We did not expect him to figure out how to hang the ornaments on the tree (since he just turned two) and also, we did not expect his patience to last one and half hour.

The night turned out to be a beautiful night for us.

zy had so much fun. He chose the color of the ornaments, decide on the position on the tree, hang the ornaments all by himself. We saw how proud he was when he looked up the tree and said "nice". We could still remember the same time last year when zy messed up everything while we set up our christmas tree. He was crying for attention and we had to pull him away.

This year is totally different. zy has grown up so much and we did not realise it till last night.

Life is beginning to feel wonderful again...

Pre-Xmas SALE Shinzi Katoh!

2009-11-08T10:59:00.002+08:00

Celebration! Pre-Xmas SALE!

30% off all Shinzi Katoh products at my official site!

www.zakkaArt.com

Only 1 piece per design!

SALE will last from 8 Nov to 30 Nov 2009

Mystery Free gift for orders S$100 and above^_^

Note: All item prices listed are before discount.

10 things that change when you have kid(s)

2009-11-04T14:20:00.000+08:00

1. You respect your parents and love them in a new way.

2. You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.

3. You lose touch with the people in your life whom you should have banished years ago.

4. Your heart breaks much more easily.

5. You think of someone else 234,836,178,976 times a day.

6. Every day is a surprise.

7. Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you. (Hooray for poop!)

8. You look at your baby in the mirror instead of yourself.

9. You become a morning person.

10. Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

Home today

2009-11-03T13:07:00.011+08:00

Tummy contractions yesterday and it scared me. Doc said I should take more rest to avoid preterm labour. So I'm staying at home today to rest. But of course, I did not rest! zy refused to go to school in the morning because he knows I am not going for work. He seemed so sad and kept telling me "Mama, no school. Home."

I made him promise not to cry or throw tantrums if I allow him to stay at home only for today.

So, to keep him occupied, we did finger/brush/chopstick painting with tempera paint.

Painting is easy and fun for a two-year-old. Since he already knows all the colors, I encouraged him to be creative in painting the tomato picture that I drew for him.

Tomato does not need to be red/orange, right? Well, in an artist point of view that is.

I love all the art pieces he does. And I paste them up on the wall everytime he finishes.*smile*

My favourite tea time snack recently...^_^

Trying to be hardworking

2009-11-01T12:39:00.005+08:00

I made 2 things this week. Yes, just 2 things and I'm trying to make more.

The first thing I sewed was the revised version of the iPod/iPhone pouch. Initially, I thought the pouch will be perfect after all the adjustments. But no... I still need to shift the position of the magnetic button so that the pouch will not be so compacted.

Since it is not the final design version, I call it prototype 2 and I've listed it in the shop.

Next, I made a shopping bag. It's small but big enough to carry your wallet/purse, handphone and other small things when you are out to do some shopping, lunch or marketing.

I am planning to make 2 quilts - one for zy and one for baby girl. The quilt I wanted to make for zy last time is still sitting in my basket and it has become too small for him *guilty me*.

iPod/iPhone pouch

2009-10-28T13:25:00.003+08:00

A few days ago, I made this pouch to fit my iPod. It should fit the iPod snugly without it slipping or falling out of the pouch.

Since it is only a prototype or my first trial, I used rough sewing and stitching. There is also a few stains on the fabric. I just wanted to see how the pouch will look like and if my design is feasible to make some for the shop.

The pouch has 3 compartments to fit your earpiece as well as your USB cable. I'm not an organised person so my bag is always very messy. So I thought I need to make more compartments so that I do not need to rummage my bag for earpiece everyday.

I have sent this prototype to one of my customers together with her order. I hope she does not mind the rough work.

my boy turns 2 ^_^

2009-10-27T00:47:00.008+08:00

Happy birthday to our sweet boy who turns 2 today.*hugs*

Sometimes I wonder if time really passes that fast. 2 years ago, after 18 hours of labour, we saw zy for the first time and he was this curious, quiet and observant big baby lying just beside my labour bed. I remembered zy gazing at me and I felt like I was looking at a total stranger.

Now, my heart smiles everyday with zy. Even his small actions will make me laugh and giggle.

zy is our angel.

And it's zy that I realise that love can be so true, pure and unconditional.

Hello!

2009-10-23T09:43:00.004+08:00

Yes, I'm still around! Every since work started in July, I have been busy coping with full time working life again (after 2 years of bumming as a stay-at-home-mother). And with a little one growing in my tummy, I have to do alot of re-adjustments to my daily routine and... well, forget about personal time.

I really want to sew something. Soon!

Last weekend was a nice break for us. We went to a boutique hotel in town for a short getaway and it was relaxing. Obviously, the plane does not allow a "big tummy penguin" on board so my plan for a holiday trip... =(

Counting down to next year January. Just another 3 more months to go. I can't wait to hold baby in my arms. Zy is also excited about his little sister. He kisses and hugs my tummy everyday. Can you imagine that? He is soooo sweet.

I was looking at my etsy shop and how much I have neglected it. So, I'm going to sew up a storm (if possible) for christmas sale. And yes, two blankies for the big bro and lil' sis.

Teach, Love, Inspire

2009-08-31T23:06:00.003+08:00

Handstamped necklace from byHannahDesign

Happy Teachers' Day to me!

Finally!

2009-08-26T13:58:00.003+08:00

Finally I sewed something today! I'm so happy!!

Beautiful Dream Case (Pink)

All because I'm on medical leave due to tummyache scare this morning. Doc said it's constipation. I hope so.

I just saw this very funny pic we took that day outside the beautiful Fullerton Hotel. I was trying to make zy smile at the camera coz he is always trying to act cool!

I need to buy new dresses! My clothes are almost bursting due to my bulging tummy!

Happy

2009-08-25T11:55:00.004+08:00

nice quote image from Kind Over Matter

I'm indeed happier than before.

Going home to rest before fetching zy from childcare. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

lazy sunday again

2009-08-16T11:11:00.004+08:00

Finally now I have some time to myself. zy is napping, after some medication for his running nose and cough. And I have cooked simple lunch for us. Today is Sunday and this weekend has been slow for us, which is good. For us to wind down and relax.

I have been attempting to sew something but I have not picked up a needle yet. After a long week at work, I suddenly felt lazy to do anything. Yesterday afternoon, I just laid on the couch and napped together with zy. Or maybe it's my hormones?

Last Thursday we made a trip to the gynae as I was having stomach cramps. Yes, I have been more cautious and paranoid for this pregnancy. I just could not help feeling worried all the time. Fortunately, the scan was good. Baby is growing well and very active. And to our pleasant surprise, we were told that baby might be a girl!

Awww..... does this mean I have to get the chance to sew some girly stuff...? I really wish to...

Big wish

2009-08-03T17:08:00.003+08:00

image from Woof Nanny flickr

I really wish I have time to sew something! =(

Busy weekend

2009-08-02T15:39:00.005+08:00

I just finished baking a cake! This weekend is so packed but fulfilling. It's the first weekend from the day I stepping into the working society again. And I do not want to waste our time with little zy. Time is so precious now!

We went to the Singapore Science Centre yesterday and it was fun! zy was, we guess, too stimulated that he slept the moment he plopped into his car seat. There was a big T-Rex dinosaur at the centre entrance and it was so real!

This morning, I cooked lunch for: cousins who popped by for a swim, my mum who went to the hair salon nearby and my in laws who were just back from church. And trying to bake a cake at the request of little zy.

Ops! I have not done my lesson plans! =P

teaching life

2009-07-30T19:29:00.005+08:00

I'm wondering if the 2 day course is useful in my teaching career. But it was a good exposure to hear experiences from other teachers.

Everyday I start my day at 6am and school ends at about 2-3pm. After which, I'll fetch zy from his childcare and the rest of the day will be being with zy. At the end of the day, drained is the only word. I can hardly walk to my table to pick up a needle or fabric. I miss sewing!

Tomorrow will be back to school.

image from mrrodriguez78

ps: pls pardon me for lack of email replies.. i just do not have the energy to on my computer at the end of each day. Oh... I still have to clear my waiting list of orders!

First day of work

2009-07-27T22:32:00.003+08:00

Exhausted.

cute image from Dalla*s

Good news^_^

2009-07-22T10:22:00.008+08:00

I wrote I have a good news to share in the last post... And now here it is..

We are having a baby! ^_^

image from SkribblyKids

Lazy Monday

2009-07-20T14:25:00.003+08:00

A small surprise to someone nice..

cheeky zy loves his daddy's jacket. How I wish I can knit something for zy to wear.

Today is a lazy Monday. Or is it I'm having a pre-work-laziness-syndrome?

^_^

2009-07-18T13:24:00.003+08:00

Finally got little zy to nap after a l-o-n-g morning! Trying to be a little more enthusiastic about life and stuff. Oh, the shop seems to be covered to dust after such a long time. So I "cleaned" it up and finally listed something new in store.

I've got some great news to share soon. It's rainbow after the storm. Thank you for all your kind concern. My heart warmed when I read all the comments in the previous post.

Suddenly I'm having alot of inspiration for creating. ^_^

Many things

2009-07-17T12:45:00.005+08:00

Many things happened. I thought of getting a breather after Grandma passed away a few months back but things were moving slowly. Time heals wounds. We were starting to look at the brighter side of life when we received a sudden call last week. jw's grandma had a heart attack and she, too, went to heaven.

Perhaps, the news was too sudden so we were all overwhelmed. Life seems so short. We were all very sad, again.

I had not been sewing nor blogging for the past weeks. Not to mention checking or replying mails. I was just not in the mood to do anything. Sorry to all who have been waiting for so long for my replies and orders. I should have cheered myself up earlier. After all that had happened, I realised life is too short to be sad and down. Live a life of fulfilment and no regrets. And happiness. That should be the way of life. To cherish, to treasure, to be surrounded by love.

So I started sewing again. It makes me happy.

A pair of pants for zy. I have delayed sewing this for very long and now he has grown so much bigger. This is made a size bigger so that he can wear it for a longer time.

Our new pet, Hamster. That's his name. We were very happy when he joined us a couple of weeks ago but I sort of neglected Hamster recently. I think he is kinda affected by us, our sadness. He sleeps all day recently. I will clean his cage later and play with him.

A picture of blooming flowers taken at a park. Maybe we will go there tomorrow morning again for fresh air. Fresh air makes people happy.

My new job is starting soon. I'm very looking forward. I'll still continue sewing but maybe not taking too many custom orders next time.

cheering up

2009-06-26T13:52:00.002+08:00

Had a bad dream last night. It was lousy. zy woke up late this morning so we decided to keep him at home for him to enjoy. After swimming and showing off his swim wear to the little neighbour baby downstairs, he was so happy but tired. I am a happy mother too.^_^

jw messaged me about Michael Jackson's demise this morning. I can sense that he is sad. Michael Jackson is jw's biggest idol and we even made a promise to watch his concert if he ever comes to Singapore again. I feel sad too.

I think I got cheer myself up later. Going to post some parcels and maybe some shopping. Shopping again. My favourite.

Shopping... Bliss

2009-06-24T13:07:00.006+08:00

Did some shopping yesterday all alone. It felt good to be alone sometimes but the weather was killing me. So I did not buy alot. That's good too. At least I can save up more for clothes shopping.
I love polka dots and I had a hard time looking for these fabric since last year. Since I usually buy them in half a metre and use them up very quickly. They are simple but versatile.

Checks is a popular print for summer season. I love checks too. I think I cannot sew without checks or polka dots fabric. This checks fabric reminds me of my school bag.

Got to make pants for little zy so I bought these two fabric above. zy is growing so fast that he is almost outgrowing the pants I made for him a few months back. And of course, all other pants he has.

And here, my little rascal at the beach last Sunday morning. It's true bliss just watching him laugh and smile.

Lazy life

2009-06-19T13:13:00.006+08:00

I have been sleeping alot lately. It's like crazy sleeping. It's like trying to sleep as much as I can before working life starts in two weeks.

And little zy has been refusing to go to school these days. I allowed him to stay at home for a day and he is like a super glue to me. He sticks to me every minute and will not even allow me to go to the washroom unless he can follow! Imagine that! -_-"

Outside the Asian Civilisation Museum last Sunday for the Emperor Kang Xi Exhibition.

Need to start working soon. Lotsa mails unreplied, lotsa work undone. 2 more hours to fetch zy from school. ^_^

sick.. lag

2009-06-10T22:03:00.003+08:00

zy and I had been two sick birds for the past week. It started from me and the flu virus got into him. It hurts to me see how much he is suffering - blocked/running nose, cough and fever. But I still have to pretend as if I'm a happy mummy playing with him. zy is such a darling. He made me angry so many times a day for being rude and throwing tantrums. I was really very mad at him that I refused to talk to him. And he always come to me and look at me with his lovely doe eyes while saying sorry. How can I not love him more.

I'm lagging behind with my orders. Alot of back logs and mails to reply. Getting a little messy with the shop. I need to be well and healthy to start clearing up everthing. Job is starting soon too. I hope I can cope.

slow in making...

2009-06-02T14:39:00.003+08:00

Heartwarming Coasters - Daisies in Garden

Happy Drawstring Pouch

I slowly made the above two items over the past two days. Weather has been very hot here and it's not so nice to sit at the balcony to sew anymore.

It's almost time to fetch zy from school and I can't wait to see him.

i wish to sew more...

2009-06-01T10:50:00.003+08:00

NEW Casual Bag - Vintage Print

if my hands are faster...

Quick Update

2009-05-27T23:21:00.005+08:00

Not having computer access for the past days but it made me a little more productive than usual.

NEW Boxy Everything Pouch - Pretty Patchwork

Mini Pouch - Garden

zy is coping better at his childcare. Thank God! With about six hours of free time everyday, I eat, rest, catch Martha Stewart show, sew, read.... six hours seems so short!

Another

2009-05-19T11:26:00.007+08:00

Another fun day in the zoo last weekend!

Another pouch I made... new boxy everyday pouch.

and thanks for all your well wishes for my birthday!

Happy Birthday to me;)

2009-05-14T10:43:00.003+08:00