Finally smocking something

I helped a friend pleat up some white batiste for an anticipated baby’s blessing gown. While I had Amanda Jane out I finally pleated up a dress panel I’ve been meaning to make for Bird for at least 9 months. 

It was supposed to be her happy birthday dress in September and then a Christmas dress in December.  (I didn’t even make Christmas dresses this year, unless you count the angel/shepherd costume, but I don’t.)  Now it is a just because dress.  Just because the dress that it will coordinate with fits Lu right now.  I made this little dress for Bird’s second Easter (age 18 m).  It was the first dress I smocked. I pleated it by transferring dots and handpicking them up with a needle and thread (terrible process).  This project inspired me to buy my Amanda Jane pleater.  Lu needs to wear this dress.  I may make her baby cousin wear the red rompers.     

Check out my sewing shelves!  It may not look especially tidy and empty to you but trust me, it is.  It is delightfully empty and organized. 

And.  My sweet friend Lindsay gave me a blog award.  I’ll get to the details of that at some point but meanwhile you should check out her sewing blog because she is prolific and talented.  Plus you should read the really nice things she said about me.