It's Here! It's Here!

My brand new sewing machine is here! And it is beautiful! I am currently reading the owners manual of my Brother xl-3750, desperately trying to figure out how everything works. (I knew there were a lot of options, but there is a lot for me to learn!) Tonight I am going to try "sewing" my notebook paper and hopefully tomorrow I will actually thread the machine. lol

I bought three yards of sage green cotton to start with, along with a few fabric scraps that I found in the bargain bin at Joann Fabrics. I will use it to test out the machine and see if I can get the tension right. After that, I bought a shopping bag pattern to try. I am crossing my fingers to see that it works!

I also bought a pair of Fiskars sewing scissors with the spring-handle, a leather thimble, some pins, a pin cushion, and some white thread. I still need a rotary matt and cutter, and I still really want a chenille cutter.

My baby girl, Kaelyn, and I got to browse Joann Fabric for an hour or so on Sunday. I saw sooo many different fabrics that I wanted to buy, and I know exactly what I want to make from all of them. I am trying to remind myself to be patient, however, because I am still new at this and I don't have room to store random bolts of cloth. But next week I have two coupons for 50% off a cut of any fabric, along with a 40% off coupon for any one item, sooo.... I will be back in their store soon! My first big project will be a blanket for baby girl, and then one for our toddler, so I know exactly what I need. I think.

I really want to try making a quilt, but I am not sure how to get started. I might try taking a class at one of the local fabric stores, but it makes me nervous! I feel too unprepared to hang out with the quilting crowd, even though most people in the craft world are insanely friendly and helpful. Another option is one of those quilting kits. I love that it is all laid out for you- you don't have to cut the squares or figure out the batting or anything- but I hate the fabrics that they come in!

I am also starting to knit a new hat for Kaelyn. She loved this soft purple yarn at the fabric store, and the color looks amazing with her skin. I have never knitted an infant hat, so it will be a bit of an adventure. Wish me luck!