The Problem With Finishing

I know I cannot be the only person with this affliction but I find that I have trouble finishing garments. I know this probably points to a very obvious, psychological trait, but sometimes I wonder if it's just because I hate putting in zippers and hemming full skirts. The above photograph is a stack of four unfinished projects. They're in the clothing graveyard for no good reason.



This dress only needs to be taken in at the shoulders, something I could probably do in 10 minutes. Yet, it rests in peace.


For me, zippers are my enemy. The dresses I choose to make usually have them, since I like my garments to have structure (aka, not just a sack). It takes enough effort to baste the zipper, then it's a whole other story as to how I get myself seated at the sewing machine to actually sew the darn thing into place.

The inability to finish my projects extends to many things beyond sewing. Does anyone have this problem?

Collage of the Day

I always encourage treating your scanner as a tool, just like you would a paintbrush or a camera. Making collages on your scanner is a fast way to sketch out ideas that could become something greater, or simply make great wallpaper for your computer. The day I made this collage, I couldn't stop cutting out llamas.

The Work of Paula Sanz

I'm always looking for people who use cloth in a completely original manner. Paula Sanz is making the most beautiful illustrations out of what you or I might consider to be scrap cloth. These aren't the usual embroidered characters you find on quilts. These people have life and look as if they are ready to move at any instant. I would love to see them animated.

Posted today on NOTCOT, or visit her personal site

Color Palette of the Day

I love, love, love peach n' green together. This will not be the last time I talk about this subject.

Can't find the source... somewhere on Flickr.

Prints by Yellena

At only $18-$20 per print, they're a steal. I'm tempted to get the last one.

Visit her Etsy shop

eBay Find #2

This dress is pure architecture. Even more, it's photographed like a skyscraper. It's peach & green done right.

Link to auction

Parallel Cannes

I love the images that come from the red carpet at Cannes. They look like exercises in geometric planes. I wish they were because maybe I would have actually made decent grades in my high school geometry class. Wishful thinking.

Can't remember the source for these images.

Polyester Tents

My mom and her cousins, definitely in the 1960's. All of these shapes have come back in some form or another but look at those fabric prints! Especially the one on the left... Whew, boy.

eBay Find #1

This dress falls under the "Has No Practical Place In My Life But Can I Just Hold It For A Moment?" category. It's the color palette, my friends, reminding me of the Southwest and hanging over the edge of the Grand Canyon while massive birds circle overhead. I hope a wonderful person buys this dress and truly wears it.

Photo Collage of the Day