Tennessee Treasures

This past week I was in Tennessee to visit family and attend the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention at the Opryland Hotel.  After visiting my family in Franklin County, we headed toward Nashville.  I asked my husband if we could stop at Children's Corner so I could get a few patterns.  He obliged and waited in the truck while I browsed through the pattern selection. I ended up with 5 patterns (does that classify as "a few"?) from Michie Mooney, Bonnie Blue and Children's Corner.

[caption id="attachment_394" align="aligncenter" width="400"] My pattern purchase![/caption]

The simplicity and ease of Michie's patterns coupled with classic styling, the trendiness of Bonnie Blue and the many adaptations I plan to do with Children's Corner "Lucy" ended up making the "cut". (I did have more than that in my hand and had to narrow my choices.)  Do any of you have the same problem??

I also quickly glanced through their selection of Cross-Eyed Cricket smocking templates to pick up  "a few". (there's that word again...but was able to keep it to two) Since I was keeping my patient hubby and my dog waiting in the truck, I restrained myself from looking at anything else.

 

[caption id="attachment_396" align="alignleft" width="600"] One Enchanted Evening[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_395" align="alignleft" width="600"] Very Berry Bishop[/caption]

 

We attended the NWTF expo and banquet and dear hubby and son got "a few" turkey hunting supplies. (I think the definition of "a few" in this case is more than two...) I enjoy my quality "guy time"!

[caption id="attachment_401" align="alignleft" width="400"] My son, my turkey guide![/caption]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While the guys were attending a second day of turkey calling and the like on the expo floor, the girls decided to shop and peruse an antique show in an adjacent area.  I found a treasure while poking through some vintage sewing supplies...

[caption id="attachment_398" align="aligncenter" width="300"] My vintage lace treasures![/caption]

Needless to say, I got a great deal on these laces and was able to share some smocking and heirloom knowledge with the booth owner who wasn't familiar with the art of smocking and heirloom sewing.

Tennessee Treasures....spending quality time with family or as my son calls it "making memories", patterns for future sewing projects and vintage laces for my stash!

Sew Happy,

Renee

Ney Ney's Stitches 

 

Trunk Show

I was asked to provide a trunk show and be a speaker for the American Sewing Guild Chapter meeting in Macon, GA to celebrate National Smocking Month.  It was a treat to see all the ladies sharing a passion for sewing.  I spoke about English Smocking.



English smocking, in my opinion, is an art form.  It requires skill, labor and love to create a garment that can make any child feel unique and special.  English smocking is a craft that is done by hand.....no machines, no mass production! These garments can be passed down for years if quality fabrics are used and construction is done well. I like that my creations have made it through the playground, birthday parties, church, school and even a wayward pair of scissors in the hands of a 5 year old!  We discussed many facets of smocking including fabric selection, the pleating process, garment styles, the difference between geometric and picture smocking and thread choice.

I enjoyed showcasing some of my favorite pieces of "artwork" and sharing smocking secrets with those who were interested!



 

Bishops, Yoke Dresses, Inserts, Bonnets,Rompers, and  Smocked Easter Eggs.....eye candy for smocking and sewing enthusiasts!

 

I look forward to teaching several ladies the art of smocking, whether it be picture smocking or smocking and constructing your first bishop for Easter!  Thank you ladies for the invitation and a special thank you to my "angel" Mrs. Ann for all her help in transporting and setting up my dresses!

Sew Happy,

Renee

Ney Ney's Stitches

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