Royal Tea Party Auction

It's auction time again!  This month's theme is Royal Tea Party.  Everything in this auction is perfect for tea parties, special occasions, and Easter.  Our fabulous vendors take so much time creating items for our auctions each month and love it when their items find a home with a sweet little girl or boy.

Royal Tea Party Auction

This beauty is the Adorable Tea Party Dress by Shades of Pink Boutique.  It's made with 4 yards of beautiful fabric!  If you would like to check it out in the auction and perhaps place a bid, just click here.

This beauty of a dress is called the Esmee.  It's made by Grammies Dolls.  Your little girl will just love the busy bee print on the fabric.  You can see the dress in the auction here.

Of course we couldn't leave out the boys.  Here is a teal checkered fitted vest for the dapper guys.  Even if your little man isn't going to a tea party with the girls, he can still look handsome in a vest and pair of jeans.  This vest is made by My Little Lady and Gentleman.  If you would like to see the vest in the auction then you may do so here.

These are just a few of the wonderful things that our vendors have provided for this auction.  Be sure to check back in every month on our Facebook page to see what the different auctions are themed.  

The Royal Tea Party Auction runs from Friday, March 7th at 9am CST to Sunday, March 9th at 10pm CST. 

Caring for your Boutique Clothing

Whether you just purchased your first boutique clothing item or have had some for awhile, you may be wondering how to wash, dry, and iron it and keep it looking like the day you bought it.  Most of the boutique clothing you will have will be made out of cotton quilting fabric.  Here is how I recommend the caring of your clothing items.  Other boutique owners may have different recommendations so always check with the person you are purchasing from on the care they recommend.

Washing your clothing item: 

I always wash my clothing in a cold water wash and cold water rinse.  Heat tends to shrink clothing, and also fades colors.  Make sure if you are using the washing machine as opposed to hand washing, to wash on a gentle cycle, especially if there are delicate trims, buttons, applique's, etc.  Some items should never be put into the washing machine and only hand washed.  Given that you probably spent a good chunk of change on that beautiful one of a kind boutique item it is probably best to hand wash. 

Detergent used may also make a difference in the fading of your fabrics.  I have been using Tide Original for years and years.  I let my mom do all the experimenting while I was growing up and she swears that Tide caused the least issues with our clothing.  I notice very little fading in our clothing, even with black fabric which is usually the most noticeable.  Use what is best for you, but if you don't think your detergent is doing so well you may want to change to something different so it doesn't ruin your clothing. 


Drying your clothing item:

Just as washing your clothing in warm/hot water, drying clothing with hot air can shrink and fade the fabric.  I recommend that boutique clothing should be air dried.  I do sometimes put my boutique items in the clothes dryer, but on a lower heat setting.  I cannot guarantee though, that if you use the dryer that you will not affect the quality of the garment. 


Ironing your clothing item:

I found this great video done by Shannon and Tiffany of Create Kids Couture  all about ironing your boutique clothing.  It's very helpful and I'm just going to let them do the explaining. So now you can properly care for your boutique items!  Hopefully this helps a little and you aren't so afraid of washing them.  Make sure you check out our next auction which is themed a Royal Teaparty set to take place this Friday, March 7th, through Sunday, March 9th, 2014.  See our Facebook page  to purchase your one of a kind boutique items this weekend!

This blog written by Robin of My Little Lady and Gentleman

Mosaic painting

Hi, there!  This seems to be the winter that doesn't want to end.  A lot of us are still stuck with snow covering every inch of outdoors, or weather so cold that our skin will freeze off if we try to go outside.  We thought we'd post another craft that we can do indoors with the little ones to try to take their minds off being stuck indoors for yet another day or two, or ten.  I saw this on Pinterest about a month ago, and I thought, "I seriously need to find a tutorial for this!  These look so amazing!"  I looked for a couple of tutorials, and I think I was using the wrong buzz words because nothing popped up that even looked like what I wanted. SO, I winged it, and we're off on another crafting adventure here in our house, complete with paint and glitter!  For this project, you will need:

• A canvas surface...I got mine in a two pack at Hobby Lobby
• Some paints...I just went and picked out some pretty acrylic colors in the paint area
• Glitter
• Some brushes
• Painter's tape or masking tape

For this project, I decided not to do any special shape or anything.  I just sort of created some shapes on the canvas using the tape.  There wasn't really any rhyme or reason to how the tape ended up on the canvas.  I just sort of stuck it on there.

Then, I basically set the kids loose.  I squirted the paint onto some foil and let them kind of mix the paints or dab their brushes into the paints and put them on the canvas however they wanted.  For this part, my son really liked to mix the paints so some of his blocks ended up brown...Okay...a lot of them ended up brown....so I changed out his foil and did a little bit of each color.  I had to wash the brushes fairly often on this one so that they didn't end up with a swirl of brown all over the canvas.  The whole concept of separate brushes was fairly lost on my 3 and 4 year old children.  In the picture below, you can see where I had planned so awesomely that I ran out of blue painter's tape so I had to finish out my son's canvas with yellow masking tape.  This is routine around here that I will not plan through a project completely so...yeah, that's just how we roll.

You can actually see here where the colors have started to become brown on my son's canvas....

Once these were completely covered in paint, I let the kids pick two colors of glitter, and I helped them sprinkle glitter over the canvas.  Now for this part, some of the paint had already dried a little on parts so I actually used a little spray adhesive on it to get more of the glitter to stick.  You could probably add a little more paint to the dry areas to help that along before adding glitter if you don't have spray adhesive.  On my son's, he had actually painted over part of the tape, and I thought that actually looked kind of cool...

While these dried, I plopped the kids in the bath and washed the paint and glitter off them so the next few pictures will be of them in their PJs.  We believe in dressing up for pictures around here so they picked their favorite sleepy time gear for these photos.  By the time that we were done with arguments over who got to have a shower or a bath, which soap each child wanted, and which towel we wanted...enough time had passed that the paintings were dry enough to pull the tape off.  This was probably their favorite part since they were allowed to destroy something with my blessing...

This process took a few minutes to hunt for the pieces of tape and pull them off.  My son kept yelling that he had found "another surprise!" as he pulled the pieces of tape off.  The end masterpiece ended up being a pretty mosaic that looks really awesome!

The kids were pretty proud of their art, and they are now in search of where in the house they want us to hang their masterpieces! Total cost of supplies: about $15, total time invested: about 1 1/2 hours, total clean up time: about 20-30 minutes minutes, pride in a job well done: well...a picture is worth a thousand words...

All in all this was a really easy project to put together.  I hope that this tutorial made sense, and that I didn't confuse you too much!  If you end up doing this project, we'd love to hear about how they turned out and please let me know if you have any questions about anything that I did on here!  Thanks so much for stopping by and Blessings! 

Written by  Kim of Nini and Ash

Fabric Silhouettes

This week's tutorial is something I found on the Martha Stewart website.  I was expecting to see a video how-to but only saw the written instructions.  So with that, I decided to take the steps and use my own photos to show how to make a painted fabric silhouette.  Martha's instructions are found here.

Here are the items that you need:

-A template for the silhouette you would like to use.  I used Martha's wren, but you could use anything you'd like, or even freehand your own.

-canvas, size of your choice.
-paint
-paint brush
-fabric enough to fit wrapped around to the back side of the canvas.
-staple gun
-tape
-pencil
-scissors
-mod podge

To begin I tried cutting some corners from Martha's directions because I was extremely tight on time.  I was trying to get this project done while my baby napped.  I was not successful but that was because my baby doesn't like to nap in his bed so he realized he was alone shortly after I put him in bed.

I decided to lightly cover the canvas with the Mod Podge and then place the fabric on it and around the back.  I used a piece of twill fabric that I had leftover in my scrap pile.  I skipped using a staple gun because I was lazy.  I do suggest for long term quality of this that you make sure the fabric is secured with more than just the Mod Podge.  You must also make sure that the fabric gets stretched from opposite corners and that you don't have any wrinkles in the fabric. 

Once my fabric seemed secure and stretched properly I put another thin layer of Mod Podge all over the fabric to help keep it secured and also create a slightly glossy look. I then cut out the center of my template and placed the paper on top of the fabric.  Once it is where you would like it to be I recommend taping the paper in place along the sides.  I did not tape mine and knew the consequences if the paper moved. (You may trace your stencil onto the fabric, or just leave the paper on and paint over it).   I think I have heard that you can sometimes wipe paint off with a washcloth if you make a mistake as long as you have the layer of Mod Podge on the fabric.  I didn't need to test this theory and hopefully you won't have to either.

Next I started to paint.  I began dabbing the paint on the legs and feet first since they were the smallest area and I didn't want to mess up.  I was careful not to put too much paint on at once either.  I just kept dabbing on more paint as needed. 

Once the outline was finished then I filled in the middle.  I also decided to make mine a little more colorful and add some vignette to the corners. 

There are so many things you could add to the canvas to make it unique.  I would love to go back and add some metallic paint on top of the corners, or even glue on a little quote.  So for now I have put my little artwork on a shelf in my sewing room.  This whole project took me less than an hour to do and I know I will be making more for other areas of my house.  Never would have thought I could decorate so easily and inexpensively.

Hope you liked this week's tutorial.  Stop by next week for something new.
Written by Robin of My Little Lady and Gentleman

Understanding fabric print names 101

So, you have the outfit picked out, and you’re picturing it in your head.  It’s this amazing masterpiece of fabric and thread, and your sweet darling is going to look so wonderful in it that you cannot wait to get your package in the mail.  Then, you hear *ping* and the message, “so what exactly did you mean by the checkered material but not really?  Also, I’m afraid I don’t have anything with conversation bubble looking print.  I’m afraid I don’t understand what you mean by that.  Do you know what the print might be called or do you have photos of them so I can see what you have in mind?”  What?!?  I understand that perfectly!  How can she not know what I’m talking about!  How the heck do I know what it’s called?!?!  It’s checkered but not really…that’s all I  know.  Now what?

Well, hopefully, we’re going to be able to give you a little bit of a guide on what some of the more popular fabric prints are called and what they look like.  The list of different types of print out there is very extensive, and I seriously could go on for days talking about the different types that are out there.  Here are just a handful of the more popular prints to get you started!

Let's just jump right in.  So, argyle…usually, the first thing that comes to mind when we hear argyle is socks, but really, it can be used in all sorts of places.  I’ve seen it on sweaters, pants, bags...Basically, argyle is a pattern of different colored diamonds on a plain background.  Most common uses for it are socks and sweaters, but more and more, it has been popping up in different places.  

Argyle vest from My Little Lady and Gentleman

Next up, we have the ever popular, chevron.  My husband calls these the zig zags, and every time he does, I roll my eyes and tell him, “They’re called chevrons…”  Now, he’s not entirely incorrect.  They are in fact zig zag lines, but if you ask for zig zags when talking about fabric, beware that you can get a wide array of print types.  Chevrons are a specific type of print, and I really do think he now calls them zig zags just to push my buttons.  These are a wide “v” that are joined together to form zig zags that actually look similar to military chevron insignia stripes.  These can be paired with all types of prints to make some pretty unique combinations, and they come in an almost endless array of color combinations.  

Corduroy dress in rainbow chevron from Shades of Pink Boutique

Now, we've all seen houndstooth before whether we realize it or not.  If you've ever seen a Roll Tide fan in gametime garb, chances are something in that outfit was the signature black and white houndstooth.  This print is so versatile and can be seen in pretty much anything from dresses to shoes, bags to coats, and hats to pants. The history of houndstooth isn't exactly clear, but most information credits the origin of it to Scotland. The name of the print comes from the fact that the print itself looks like dogs teeth.  In fact, you might even hear this pattern called dogstooth.  Traditionally, the print is black and white, but you can also find it in other colors.

Houndtooth and crimson capri set from Nini and Ash

This next one comes in all types of colors and patterns, but they all have one element in common.  They all have these "conversation bubble" type patterns interspersed in the print.  They might have other elements in them as well but those bubbles are always a part of the print.  This next print type is paisley.  Paisley fabric is characterized by curved, feather shaped figures and was first manufactured in the town of Paisley, Scotland in the early 19th century (http://www.quiltersmuse.com/Paisley-A-Brief-History.html)  .

Paisley dress from Made by Jovanna

Damask has seen something of a rise in popularity, and traditional damask is often a silk material that is reversible and used on drapes or upholstery.  However, when talking about prints, these are distinctive as they are typically two colors.  The main background color and a main design color.  The design is a large swirl of leafy or feathery prints over the background.  These are also available in different color combinations.

Damask and pink poshkini from Haute and Posh Designs

Another print that features an intricate and distinctive design that repeats across the fabric is a French origination called toile.  This print is typically a scenic or floral theme set on a light background.  You will also find this one called toile du jouy in some places.

example of blue and white toile fabric from Fabric.com

For those that like something a little different, batiks have a tie dyed appearance.  These are really neat because the design is actually on both sides of the fabric so there isn't really a front or back side to the fabric. The tie dyed design is actually achieved using wax to cover the parts that the creator doesn't want to color in. Once it's dyed, the wax is melted off using heat, leaving the design in the fabric with the dye around it.  This part can then be dyed or left as is.

example of batik fabric from Fabric.com

These next two aren't as widely known as the others, but they've been gaining some popularity lately so I thought I would go ahead and throw them on here in case you see these somewhere and want to use them in in outfit that you order at some point.  The first of these is called quatrefoil (pronouned ka-ter-foil).  It was originally derived from Christianity.  You will often see this in architecture, and it looks like a rounded cross or a clover.

Quaterfoil shirt from Bomberry's Boutique

The final print that we have up is called ogee.  It's reminiscent of the onion domes on the Russian Orthodox churches, but they look like bubbles with a point at the bottom and the top.  You can find these in a number of variations and colors.

T-shirt dress with ogee skirt trim from Ava Bella Boutique

Okay, so I know this was kind of a long winded post, and I really hope that I haven't lost you by now. These were just a handful of the types of prints that are out there with a short description of what they look like and a tidbit or two about them.  If you would like to know more about fabrics, there are a ton of resources out there.  A really good one that I found while I was doing some research came from Artlandia (http://www.artlandia.com/wonderland/glossary/).  I hope that this was helpful in some way and that you will be able to use this information if you ever get that little ping on your computer with a question asking you if you know the name of that print you're looking for!  Thanks so much and Blessings for stopping by!

Written by Kim of  Nini and Ash

How to Measure your Child

How to Measure your Child

So, you’re ordering your princess a little something special and the boutique artisan asks for her measurements for sizing. You start freaking out, but wait! Before you have a panic attack I am going to tell you exactly what you need to know to get that perfect fit for your princess. Please note all measurements are best taken after removing any bulky clothing. A t-shirt and underwear or leggings will probably work for this.

What you need:

Tape measure: skinny thing with all the numbers like a ruler that costs about $.99 at the fabric store.

Pen/Pencil

Paper

THE child: not any child, but the one that the clothing is being made for, trust me you will have much better results.

Common Measurements:

Chest: this is a BIG one and very important. All kids are made differently so you want to have the right measurements for this one. Here’s what you do:

1.       Take the measuring tape, Start from the end marked 1” and hold it in place level with her armpits, have her hold her arms up and measure around the chest or breastbone keeping that one end in place.

2.       Bring the other end until it meets/touches the one you held in place. Now, here is the important part: DO NOT LEAVE ANY SLACK! The tape should not squeeze your child, but having it droop or be loose creates “ease” and most patterns already have ease built in. Take it from me, you don’t need to add anymore ease than is already there.  There is “room to grow” and then there are just ill-fitting clothes.

3.       Write down the number where those two ends meet, try to be as close to the fraction as possible, when in doubt – add. Do not take away from the measurement. If you need to round make sure it’s to the next smallest increment that you can figure out NOT INCH! (I know, we all struggle with fractions. It’s a part of adulthood.)

The rest of the measurements are taken in a pretty much similar manner, the only things that change are the locations.

 

Waist:  Measure around the child’s abdomen, across the belly button works well.

Hips:  Measure around the butt and thighs.

Inseam: Measure from the top of the inside of her leg to where you like her pants to fall.

Waist to Knee: Measure from the waist to the middle of the knee

Neck to Knee: measure from the base of her neck to the middle of her knee

Head: Measure around her head just above her eyebrow.

Height: Have her stand flat footed against a wall looking straight ahead then measure from the bottom of her feet to the crown of her head.

As you can see, occasionally, you will end up with “extra” measurements. You can just toss those out. 

Now, you have your perfect measurements and can give them with confidence, but if you get confused at all you should always touch base with the artisan, he or she can provide a clear explanation of what they want, but at least you have the basics of how it’s done.

Thanks so much for reading,

Tara XOXO

Haute and Posh Designs

Tags: diy, tutorial, how to, measurements, kids’ clothes, boutique clothes, child measurements, child, toddler, kids, how to measure, measuring

Types of Clothing Fabrics

Welcome to this week's Tutorial Tuesday!  We've decided that we need to help inform our customers of all the wonderful details that may get confusing when shopping for handmade clothing and accessories.  So with that in mind, this weeks tutorial is all about the different types of fabrics that boutiques may use to make clothing.  To keep it as easy to understand as possible, I have made a list of the more popular fabrics and a small description of each. 

We will begin with the two most popular types of fabric you will find being used for making handmade clothing- woven cotton and knit. 

Cotton fabrics are very popular in the handmade clothing business because they come in a variety of colors, patterns, and are breathable and comfortable.  Sometimes the cottons used are not 100% and can sometimes be blended with synthetic fibers.  Blended cottons can have a little stretch to them that 100% cotton may not have. Some terms you may hear with woven cottons are Broadcloth, Kona, Sateen, and Designer.  These are just different types of cottons that boutiques may use to make clothing.  They are all a little different in their feel and quality, but the end results all give the same similar appearance. 

Now on to knits.  When you hear the word knit you're probably thinking yarn, sweaters, etc.  But in terms of fabric and sewing, knits are not exactly dealing with knitting needles.  Knit fabric is a term used for the stretchy materials we find used in t-shirts, leggings, yoga pants, etc.  Knits are nice because like woven cottons, they also come in a wide variety of colors and patterns.  Some terms you may hear used along with knits are ribbed, jersey, and cotton/lyrca.  These extra terms determine how much the knit fabric stretches, it's texture, or what it's made of. 

Dress made of woven cotton from My Little Lady and Gentleman

 

 

 Hooded shirt made of knit fabric from Nini and Ash

 

 

Some other fabrics used in boutique clothing are:

Denim, twill, and corduroy-  All of these are heavier fabrics used for many things such as pants and jackets.  

 

Chiffon, organza, tulle (sounds like tool)- These are lightweight, sheer fabrics used in dresses and tutu's.

 

Silk and satin are those shiny but soft fabrics often used in special occasion dresses.

 

Linen is known for its specific woven look.  People often like to wear linen in hot climates because of its cool feel.  

Chambray is a commonly used fabric for shirts, dresses, and children's clothing.  It can resemble a lightweight denim.  It is made by combining a colored yarn and an uncolored yarn.

 

Tutu made of tulle from Haute & Posh Designs

 

 

Pants made of khaki twill from Nini and Ash

 

 

Flannel, fleece, and minky- Soft fabrics used in lounge wear, pajamas,  and blankets.  Flannel is the thinnest of the three and is often used to make button down plaid shirts (think lumberjacks).  Fleece is warm, soft, and thick.  Minky is also a warm, soft, and thick fabric.  However, minky has a furry feel to it.  Minky can sometimes be found in different variations such as smooth, ribbed, or even raised dots. 

Vest made of flannel from My Little Lady and Gentleman

Dress made of satin from Nini and Ash

Hopefully this helps you understand some of the differences with the fabrics you see in our shops.  Next time you think about ordering a custom made item you'll feel a little more comfortable knowing what to expect when the boutique starts asking you if you want a chiffon overlay with the cotton sateen dress and a tulle under skirt. 

Come back next week for our blog about how to properly measure your child for custom clothing!

~Robin from My Little Lady and Gentleman