A homemade birthday

Her first sewing project: A felt cookie

It was about time for my annual "I will learn to sew!" delusion, so Catherine's seventh birthday was the perfect time to run to the fabric store, buy lots of cute fabric, haul out Mom's old 1969 Singer, then place a bunch of calls to Mom asking how to thread the needle.

Anyway, this summer's encounter with the Singer was slightly better than in year's past. I made some stuffed animal sleeping bags, a picnic blanket for Catherine's dolls, some felt cookies, and a Barbie bed sheet (and the Barbie bed, too -- granola bar boxes, pencils and duct tape!). I also made the most wretched doll dress ever (straight to the trash can).

Barbie bed made from granola boxes and duct tape

The good news (besides the fact that I'm done sewing for the year) is that Catherine has really found enjoyment in doing crafty things herself. Along with the homemade gifts we gave her a craft box full of thread and fabric and fun stuff, and her skill (and patience) already exceed mine.

I'm hoping that next year, when I am once again determined to conquer the sewing machine, she can thread the needle for me.