tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78052005865656345442024-03-16T11:52:59.712-07:00Cat on a LimbFashion (design, sewing), Food (cooking, baking), and DIY (decor, crafts, furniture)Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-88453856588688831202016-09-06T10:42:00.000-07:002016-09-06T10:45:05.478-07:00Doctor Who Cosplay - Vortex Manipulator and PatternI do so many little projects for myself, my kids, or friends, and I've decided to start sharing the patterns I create so others can create with them as well.<br />
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Last year I made myself a costume for Halloween. It was a steampunk version of River Song. I made a leather vortex manipulator to go along with the costume. I've turned it into a PDF pattern and listed it for sale in my Etsy shop. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/387453416/vortex-manipulator-doctor-who-cosplay" target="_blank">Click the image below to check it out!</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/387453416/vortex-manipulator-doctor-who-cosplay" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrO0zAbErRkFSZVo8JXB_1tk1QYBMf2Y_qLD9AOmAWTOr3rZnM087BUoqAxKDyfAtRVjfE77KHpSo7JJXkUDRmIWNbUwPErKSGsW4tdyFqZHsMnUvnT7wTHqZQugOhWoNpWTLdbrd6GQu7/s640/VM+-+Etsy+Title+Image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-22698447594156343662013-04-19T23:13:00.000-07:002013-04-19T23:13:17.370-07:00Altering a Dress Form for Long Torsos - Tall Dress FormI'm sure anyone who is taller than average or has a long torso can relate to the frustration I've felt when buying clothing, sewing with commercial patterns, or finding a dress form to use when altering / test fitting clothing. Adjustable forms sold at fabric stores offer the ability to change girth, and some are even able to adjust back length (with a change made at the waist), which helps, but doesn't solve the full problem. There's also the issue of extra length above the bust line (which is why store-bought empire waist shirts/dresses or anything with a defined waistline, like jackets and coats, never work for me -- one of the main reasons I wanted to learn to make my own clothes). <br />
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After much searching online I found a jersey covered, fiberglass dress form with somewhat realistic measurements (which were actually very close to my own). It looked something like this:<br />
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[I don't have a full step-by-step since I purchased this dress form and did the initial alteration about 9 years ago.] I knew it needed to be elongated in two different places so, after removing the cover, I marked a line around the chest above the bust and at the waistline.<br />
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Then a took out the hack saw and had at it. I admit I felt strange sawing away at something that resembled a human form...<br />
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After the from was cut, I spaced out the pieces using some things I had around the house -- big Glue Dots and a somewhat rigid plastic folder. I cut the folder into wide tabs long enough to overlap between the pieces of the from and space the pieces out as much as I needed. I used the big Glue Dots to attach the tabs to the inside of the form.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8665029024/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Cat on a Limb-1030.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-1030.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8665029024_9712052f32.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the dress form (at the neck)</td></tr>
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When that was done I used strips of muslin dipped in plaster of paris to wrap around and solidify the extensions. After letting it dry for a few days I added some batting for padding on a few areas to make it my measurements, and put the cover back on. <br />
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Over the years and after two kids, my body changed a little bit, so I needed to change the padding (take away in some areas, add in others). I also decided to sew a new cover and re-stain the wooden tripod base. I'm much happier with the form now. :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8649917377/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Dress Form Alteration 4 by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Dress Form Alteration 4" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8649917377_84c1051413.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8649916587/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Dress Form Alteration 3 by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Dress Form Alteration 3" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8649916587_a25cd7cbba.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8649915269/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Dress Form Alteration 1 by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Dress Form Alteration 1" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8649915269_7f3dfd6972.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8651015618/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Dress Form Alteration 2 by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Dress Form Alteration 2" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8522/8651015618_6e4e39dd0c.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
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I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
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Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://betteroffthread.com//" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.sugaranddots.com//" target="_blank">Sugar and Dots</a> -- <a href="http://www.mygirlishwhims.com/" target="_blank">Your Whims Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/" target="_blank">Make It Wear It</a> -- <a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue Party Time</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.findingfabulousblog.com/" target="_blank">Frugalicious Friday</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- <a href="http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Saturday</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-35649546033921658402013-04-01T11:20:00.001-07:002013-04-01T11:21:16.076-07:00Stash-Busting Sale - Fabric, Beads, Leather, LaceHelp!<br />
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I need your help clearing out my stash of fabric and supplies! It's decided -- I just have too much, way more than I can use in a reasonable amount of time. So I'm having a stash-busting sale over at my Etsy shop - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/catonalimbaccessoriz" target="_blank">Cat on a Limb Accessoriz</a>. Although I find it hard to part with some of these awesome supplies (all those projects I had planned!), I'm putting them up for sale so you can use them instead!<br />
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I've listed fabric like this lightweight pinstripe wool suiting --<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/127834407/4-yards-gray-with-blue-pinstripe" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://img2.etsystatic.com/012/0/5888998/il_570xN.443165750_7i6d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Beads like these flower pendants made from sea shells --<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/127853160/tinted-black-dark-aqua-set-of-6-38mm" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/011/0/5888998/il_570xN.443245013_g85q.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Feathers like these --<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/128090142/3-pheasant-pads-red-white-9-feather" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/013/0/5888998/il_570xN.444145529_o3my.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Leather bundles like this --<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/128091111/leather-suede-remnant-bundle-pack-2" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://img2.etsystatic.com/014/0/5888998/il_570xN.444143610_9drz.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And much more! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/catonalimbaccessoriz" target="_blank">Click here to stop by my Etsy shop to check it out!</a> I'm also including some coupon codes to choose from (feel free to spread the word and pass these along!) --<br />
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CLEAROUT -- 15% off your order</div>
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CLEAROUT25 -- 25% off your order when you spend at least $25</div>
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CLEAROUT50 -- Free shipping when you spend at least $50</div>
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Maybe if it goes well it will motivate me to add more fabric and supplies. Thank you for your help!<br />
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Oh and P.S. This is not an April Fool's joke. :)Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-15654885780389519182013-03-19T03:00:00.000-07:002013-03-19T03:00:19.460-07:00Whole Wheat Mini German PancakesWhew! What a busy semester this has been! Needless to say I haven't been posting as frequently as I would like. I'm finishing up a couple of projects in my [infrequent] spare time and will be posting a bit about some things I've learned in my classes so far. For now, here's a recipe for a fun breakfast food I made recently. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8569873747/" title="Cat on a Limb-1010.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-1010.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8107/8569873747_b59317e571.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I first learned to make German pancakes in my cooking class in middle school. (Yay elective courses!) I've made them regularly over the years and was delighted when one of the blogs I subscribe to posted a recipe for minis. Perfect, my kids would love them, especially how they puff in the oven! I altered the recipe slightly and we had a great breakfast... even if mine didn't turn out as perfectly intact as hers. :) I think I needed to grease the muffin pan a little more. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8569873509/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-1006.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-1006.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8569873509_83a798097a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8569873999/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-1017.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-1017.jpg" height="316" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8248/8569873999_f2544f98b0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Whole Wheat Mini German Pancakes</span></b></div>
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(adapted from <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2013/01/mini-german-pancakes/" target="_blank">Chef in Training</a>)</div>
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makes 18-24 pancakes</div>
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6 eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 c whole wheat pastry flour<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 c milk or equivalent <o:p></o:p></div>
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1/2 t sea salt<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 t vanilla extract<o:p></o:p></div>
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1/4 c butter, melted</div>
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<b>Syrupy Raspberry Sauce</b></div>
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1 c water<o:p></o:p></div>
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1/4 c sugar or honey<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 t lemon juice</div>
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2 1/2 T cornstarch<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 1/2 c raspberries</div>
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease two 12-count standard muffin tins, for a total of 24. Blend together eggs, flour, milk, salt, vanilla, and butter until smooth. Pour batter into prepared muffin tins until each cup is about half full. Bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed up and golden brown.</div>
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For raspberry sauce: Cook water, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch* in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it thickens up. Stir in raspberries and simmer for about 10 minutes.</div>
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Fill each mini German pancake with sauce, sprinkle with powdered sugar (optional) and enjoy!<br />
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*To keep it from clumping, place the cornstarch in a measuring cup, add about 1/4 t of water and mix until evenly combined, add a few drops more and mix again, continue several times until the cornstarch is evenly blended and thin enough to pour. Then add to the pan of other ingredients. </div>
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I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://betteroffthread.com//" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.sugaranddots.com//" target="_blank">Sugar and Dots</a> -- <a href="http://www.mygirlishwhims.com/" target="_blank">Your Whims Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/" target="_blank">Make It Wear It</a> -- <a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue Party Time</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.findingfabulousblog.com/" target="_blank">Frugalicious Friday</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- <a href="http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Saturday</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-52151821190143954462013-02-18T00:32:00.001-08:002013-02-18T00:32:55.188-08:00YouTube Video Sewing Course and Sewing with Tigers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sewman.com/images/juki/du1181.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sewman.com/images/juki/du1181.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sewman.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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I've been thoroughly enjoying my classes this semester. One of the classes I'm taking is "Apparel Construction". I love it because it's helping me get familiar with commercial production methods and industrial machines. Most of what we have been doing so far is learning about and practicing with lockstitch machines and sergers. While explaining about lockstitch machines my teacher said home machines and industrial machines are very similar in their functionality, although a home machine is like a house cat and an industrial machine is like a tiger. I love that analogy and can definitely attest to its validity -- they are so powerful and SO fast. It's somewhat difficult to get used to and my first sewing samples were laughable at best. But I'm determined to wrangle that machine! I love the idea of sewing with tigers.<br />
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I also learned that my school produced a series of videos on DVD to go along with the course. Apparently these videos have been used by educators around the world and my school is frequently asked to produce more. These videos also happen to be available on YouTube! So if you're interested in getting more detail feel free to check out the series. Here's the first video, all about tools used in sewing:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/og0WnNQym6A" width="640"></iframe></center>
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I hope you enjoy!Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-69167373805890541722013-01-31T18:17:00.002-08:002013-01-31T18:21:25.242-08:00Order Glasses Online with GlassesUSA.com<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lgcdn.glassesusa.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/440x220/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/0/1/0168_u.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://lgcdn.glassesusa.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/440x220/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/0/1/0168_u.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Has anyone ever purchased <a href="http://www.glassesusa.com/" target="_blank">eye glasses online</a>? For the longest time I didn’t even know that was an option. Then last year my kids broke my glasses (for the second time), I happened to come across an ad online, and decided to give it a shot. <br />
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I went to an optometrist to obtain a current prescription and took that information online to order my <a href="http://www.glassesusa.com/">glasses</a>. <br />
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This is where <a href="http://www.glassesusa.com/">GlassesUSA.com</a> comes in. They offer great prices on frames and lenses, including prescription sunglasses. They also have designer frames at a discount. The prices listed actually include basic lenses. That’s a huge savings over regular stores! Also important is the 100% satisfaction guarantee. (Definitely a must when shopping online.)<br />
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At first I was somewhat hesitant to purchase glasses online since I couldn’t see what they would look like on me, but GlassesUSA.com has a solution for that. You can upload a photo of yourself and “try on” the <a href="http://www.glassesusa.com/" target="_blank">glasses frames</a>! For me that’s even better than trying on glasses in the store since my eyesight is so bad, I can’t see what I look like in a mirror without the prescription lenses!<br />
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<center><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" height="433" id="glasses" width="650"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.glassesusa.com/try-it/ext/glasses_650X433.swf" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://www.glassesusa.com/try-it/ext/glasses_650X433.swf" quality="high" width="650" height="433" name="glasses" align="middle" play="true" loop="false" quality="high" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/go/getflashplayer"> </embed> </object></center>
<p>Right now they’re offering 15% off plus free shipping (on orders over $50 – Just enter code FS15 at checkout) or 10% off any order of prescription <a href="http://www.glassesusa.com/">eyeglasses</a> (enter code Blog10 at checkout). <br />
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I love the glasses I got and of course loved the huge savings, especially during a time when we didn't have insurance. Has anyone else had experience purchasing glasses online?<br />
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(This is a sponsored post but the opinions are truly my own.)Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-77128945150927799042013-01-26T18:09:00.000-08:002013-01-26T18:18:08.850-08:00Back to School with Fashion DesignMonday marks the start of a new semester of my schooling. This time I decided to put aside accounting (at least for the semester) and take a couple of courses in the fashion design program at my college. I will be taking "History of Fashion" and "Apparel Construction" (it will be focused on industrial construction methods, which I'm excited to learn, and I'm hoping it will help me in my home sewing as well).<br />
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Since those topics are along the same lines as my blog, some of my posts between now and the end of May will be devoted to them. I will try to do an update every week on what we covered in class, if it seems interesting enough to share. Anyone care to follow along? If you're interested, here are the books I'm using:<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=760199&t=caonali-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=1563678063" style="height: 270px; width: 150px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=FFFFFF&IS2=1&npa=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=6D03AB&t=caonali-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0131884433" style="height: 270px; width: 150px;"></iframe><br />
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I can't wait to get started!Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-29839767607572748032013-01-17T21:48:00.002-08:002013-01-20T01:34:53.469-08:00Necklace Alteration -- Two from OneHas anyone else discovered the Styled by Tori Spelling line of jewelry? I really like a lot of the designs, but I've found that using the system as-is makes necklaces that end up being an awkward length, or I would like it to be just a little bit different. Whenever something like that happens I usually just end up doing what it takes to make it the way I want it.<br />
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Take this necklace, for instance.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333168384/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0658.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0658.jpg" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8333168384_a63b73bbc5.jpg" width="508" /></a></div><br />
I loved the open metal flowers, but personally, I felt like the Y style didn't quite work here. So I decided to take off the dangling part in the middle and make two different necklaces. <br />
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I attached the middle portion of the original necklace to a long-ish chain using jump rings and made a closure and extension (like in this post). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332110077/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0659.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0659.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8362/8332110077_834da08c98.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333168148/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Draped Chain Necklace 9 - Cat on a Limb by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Draped Chain Necklace 9 - Cat on a Limb" height="495" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8333168148_d07de2c489.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I created it in such a way that the flowers would hang to one side of the necklace instead of in the center.<br />
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While wearing it I noticed the flowers would twist and turn a lot, so I added another jump ring between the flowers, which helped it stay flat. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332110629/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0663.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0663.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8332110629_0ce639726f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333169234/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0664.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0664.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8495/8333169234_dc9895cb09.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332110981/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0665.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0665.jpg" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8332110981_29a661b1a5.jpg" width="628" /></a></div><br />
For the second necklace I attached a pre-made "necklace top" from the Styled collection, which I shortened to make the center of the necklace lay just below my collar bone. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332110439/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0662.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0662.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8354/8332110439_1712af774d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
Using jewelry wire cutters I clipped the extra loop off of the center flower. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333168732/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0661.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0661.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8223/8333168732_e7c29e8989.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
As you can see it left a couple of barbs sticking out. I used a small rotary tool (kind of like a Dremel, but way cheapy, although it still did the job) and ground them down until it was smooth. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332111267/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0666.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0666.jpg" height="301" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8217/8332111267_2680f91143.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333169564/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0667.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0667.jpg" height="331" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8333169564_35d87d6523.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332111431/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0668.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0668.jpg" height="336" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8332111431_76a1a87b5d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
Which gave me my second necklace. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332111551/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0669.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0669.jpg" height="488" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8072/8332111551_30374e6353.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Two for the price of one... gotta love that! Has anyone else had projects where you were able to get two from one?<br />
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I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
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Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> --nbsp; Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://betteroffthread.com//" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.sugaranddots.com//" target="_blank">Sugar and Dots</a> -- <a href="http://www.mygirlishwhims.com/" target="_blank">Your Whims Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/" target="_blank">Make It Wear It</a> -- <a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue Party Time</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.findingfabulousblog.com/" target="_blank">Frugalicious Friday</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- <a href="http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Saturday</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-843465313330464842013-01-10T22:14:00.001-08:002013-01-23T13:10:14.556-08:00Fashion Week Highlights - Spring 2013In the fashion world seasons are a little backwards, or rather, forwards. In the spring designers showcase their lines for that year's fall collections, and in the fall they show their lines for the coming year's spring collections. Although the Spring 2013 Fashion Week happened several months ago, I thought I would hold off commentary until now (the time of year when I start dreaming of warmer weather). <br />
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I love how much of the content of <a href="http://www.mbfashionweek.com/" target="_blank">Mercedes Benz Fashion Week</a> is posted online after the event. I thoroughly enjoy looking through each collection, or watching highlights from the runway shows. They are not shown completely, but it's a great way to get a feel for each designer. <br />
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I admit, I'm fairly picky when it comes to clothing, and I definitely know what I like or don't like, so there are usually only a few looks that stand out to me. Here are some that caught my eye for spring --<br />
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These first two images are from Anna Sui. The first one I love because it reminds me of a vintage sheet. I have a couple of vintage sheets I'm planning on using to make dresses or skirts at some point. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_TqXGlf_mMEJdcpoR2rEhj-54RJrFlymSabNn7TbMuAjuWKRf9HZIBJkxjwlNHjdejx8bum8eY-MLMc8oQfHOV-a3iV4b5E1RPhiq_1h49nOVo5mXl-KnNsZJEvo-Ni19lDINTe8ORvT/s1600/Ana+Sui.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_TqXGlf_mMEJdcpoR2rEhj-54RJrFlymSabNn7TbMuAjuWKRf9HZIBJkxjwlNHjdejx8bum8eY-MLMc8oQfHOV-a3iV4b5E1RPhiq_1h49nOVo5mXl-KnNsZJEvo-Ni19lDINTe8ORvT/s640/Ana+Sui.jpg" width="387" /></a></div>
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The second look I really like for a few reasons. The pop of orange is great. My wardrobe is lacking in yellow and orange because those colors don't look very good against my skin. However, using a print with yellow or orange in it is a great way to incorporate the colors without them being too overpowering or right against the skin. I love the mix of prints at the hemline, minus the lace leggings. In general I am not a fan of leggings. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Fya83wGtYxVHTYI3LowBuMvr0OoLik52TuCO7GSi-GGljJJF5e9fwTewmXH4H2SEb8iGzkI__Vy3tHNrLOjj1iYQloPtkpJdsDPCpM3U1YFqSoHU7e-HfjVS6-OZS4NJWe6Wwa1r_BUX/s1600/ana+sui+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Fya83wGtYxVHTYI3LowBuMvr0OoLik52TuCO7GSi-GGljJJF5e9fwTewmXH4H2SEb8iGzkI__Vy3tHNrLOjj1iYQloPtkpJdsDPCpM3U1YFqSoHU7e-HfjVS6-OZS4NJWe6Wwa1r_BUX/s640/ana+sui+2.jpg" width="387" /></a></div>
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I am totally intrigued by this next dress, by Carmen Marc Valvo. It's an interesting take on a ruffled, tiered dress, except the tiers are folded flat and are irregular in length. I think I may use this in some form in the future.<br />
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Next up, more orange, this time from Carolina Herrera. I love the color, although it may be a bit too much for me. This is probably made from some sort of silk organza, although I could also see it in a sheer cotton gauze. I love the movement in it.<br />
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Here are a couple of solid black numbers from Ralph Lauren. The first one is a little difficult to see, but it's basically a little black dress with great lines. It's a faux wrap and while I'm not crazy about the fringe, I love the angles and shirring on the side.<br />
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For the second dress I love the structured black lace on the bodice and the flowing, delicate skirt. <br />
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I don't actually know the name of the designer of this next dress. It was part of the show of students of the Art Institute of NY. I like the structure and angle of the waistband/belt and the easy flowing-ness of the dress. <br />
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These next two are from Fotini. I appreciated them for their simplicity. I love the delicate lace and skinny belt on the first dress.<br />
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The second dress is another one that reminds me of a vintage sheet (and I mean it in the best way possible!).<br />
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I think I'm a little obsessed with obi belts, because I just can't seem to get enough! Here's one from Supima (in orange!). <br />
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And finally, I'm going to gush a little bit about a new designer I discovered. She's been around for a few years now, but this is the first runway show of hers that I've watched. I love the timeless style of her clothing, and the fact that she uses models that vary widely in age (from teens to 80+ years). I enjoyed watching an interview with her where she stated that she's disappointed in her generation for their emphasis on disposability, and that clothing should be made to last. Those are a couple of the things I've been trying to focus on myself. She also emphasizes gratitude and knowing that she is not doing this by herself. That's awesome! Such a relief from the diva attitude that can so easily happen in the fashion industry. Also, I found a full-length video of her runway show, so if you have 17 minutes to spare, <a href="http://vimeo.com/56887310" target="_blank">click here</a> to watch it. Otherwise, see a few of my favorites from her show...<br />
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Thank you for joining me for this glimpse at New York Fashion Week Spring 2013! Now it's just a few more weeks until Fall... in the beginning of February. Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-13397067207329054642013-01-08T04:00:00.000-08:002013-01-17T21:46:22.050-08:00Kale Green Smoothie RecipeI absolutely love whipping up a green smoothie in the morning. It helps me feel energized and ready to tackle the day. <br />
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One of my favorite greens to use is curly kale. There are other types of kale, but I've found some of them to be too bitter. In general kale is one of the most nutrient-rich greens around and I've found the bitterness often associated with it is easily masked with bananas. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8358992739/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-9899.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-9899.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8046/8358992739_9d2291f16e.jpg" width="333" /></a></div><br />
Kale Smoothie Recipe<br />
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2 large leaves curly kale, main stems removed<br />
2 bananas<br />
1 cup plain yogurt (or non-dairy equivalent)<br />
1 cup milk (or non-dairy equivalent) <br />
honey or other sweetener to taste (it doesn't need much)<br />
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Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until nice and smooth. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8360057254/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-9902.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-9902.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8360057254_2fd9648521.jpg" width="362" /></a></div><br />
The great thing about smoothies is that they're totally customizable to your personal preferences. What kind of smoothies do you like to make? <br />
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I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
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Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.sugaranddots.com//" target="_blank">Sugar and Dots</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/" target="_blank">Make It Wear It</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- <a href="http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Saturday</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-65950119191462110422013-01-06T02:51:00.000-08:002013-01-10T19:47:44.808-08:00Assembling a 12" Child's BikeBefore I continue on with all the fun posts I have planned, I wanted to finish the assembling of the kids bike (from <a href="http://catonalimb.blogspot.com/2012/12/kids-bike-transformation.html" target="_blank">this post</a>) that I transformed for my daughter. If you've stumbled across this post looking for how to disassemble a children's bike, just start at the end and work backwards.<br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8289641569/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-Pink Princess Bike by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-Pink Princess Bike" height="441" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8289641569_d98b3dc1a1.jpg" width="500"></a></div><br>
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After I painted the bike (using self-etching primer and standard spray paint -- since the more durable metal paints don't come in pink!), I was ready to put things back together. <br>
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<a href="http://catonalimb.blogspot.com/2013/01/assembling-12-childs-bike.html#more">Click here to continue reading the post »</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-4381245133198515462013-01-01T03:13:00.000-08:002013-01-11T00:06:20.468-08:00Draped Chain Necklace and Happy 2013!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Happy new year everyone!! </b></span></div><br />
I, for one, am so happy to have 2012 over and done. That year was kind of an overall fail for me. But I've got high hopes and big plans for 2013 which will totally make up for last year. Some of the plans include a more concerted effort and focus for my blog. I'm going to focus more on fashion, with patterns, tutorials, style, jewelry, accessories, etc. It's one of my main areas of interest. I will also continue posts about food and DIY projects as I love those subjects, too, and don't want to give them up. :) So, in practice the blog may not end up being very different, but I do plan on posting more frequently and trying to build something that will offer inspiration and help others be successful in their various projects. And by "they" I really mean you, my wonderful<b>,</b> awesome readers! Thank you so much for taking the time to visit, leave comments, and support me in my creative journey. <br />
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My first post of 2013 is a tutorial for making a dramatic draped chain necklace. It was inspired by those long necklaces with large circle links. I've wanted one of those for a while but each necklace I found in stores was so lightweight and seemed that one tug from a small child would result in a broken necklace. So, as often happens with things I would like to buy if they were available, but can't find, I ended up making one myself. Thankfully it ended up being fairly simple. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332109507/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb--2.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb--2.jpg" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8332109507_270a23db92.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><br />
NOTE: This tutorial requires some basic working knowledge of how to use jump rings and jewelry-making tools. There are tons of great guides out there for the very new beginner, but I just don't take the time to explain every detail here. <br />
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I gathered up a few different types and colors of chain. (Minus that one in the middle... my kids made off with it and I completely forgot about it while I was making the necklace. Haha, I guess "out of sight out of mind" works for me sometimes, too.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333165720/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0640.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0640.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8217/8333165720_58b3d1b667.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I started with the two chains made of large circle links. I removed the extra small links on one end (used to connect more than one length of chain) to even them out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333165332/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0641.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0641.jpg" height="332" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8355/8333165332_f34a6b6f51.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I laid out the chains to plan the placement, and to make sure they would actually look good together before putting the work in to assemble the necklace. I also took a picture to help me remember how I wanted things to look. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332107971/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0643.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0643.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/8332107971_f6e0f4644e.jpg" width="334" /></a></div><br />
The large circle chains turned out to be several inches too short for the length I wanted, so I added a couple of inches of regular chain on each side, plus a little extra for an extension, using two jump rings for extra reinforcement to help distribute the weight of the rest of the chains. (At least in my theory, haha)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332108513/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0646.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0646.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8216/8332108513_0e271a8d0f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333166544/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0645.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0645.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8491/8333166544_b87d74e8c4.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I assembled the closure and added a metal bead dangling at the end of the extension.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333166842/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0648.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0648.jpg" height="482" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8333166842_9da3f1ac7a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332108991/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0650.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0650.jpg" height="389" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8332108991_0294595011.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332109119/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0651.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0651.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8361/8332109119_5890c45060.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333168148/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0657.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0657.jpg" height="495" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8333168148_d07de2c489.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
For connecting the chains I started with the smaller circle chain and carefully laid it out so it would lay flat when worn, making sure it wasn't twisted at all. I placed the larger circle chain where I wanted it to connect with the longer chain, then attached it with jump rings. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332107739/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0642.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0642.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8219/8332107739_ae6d90697e.jpg" width="392" /></a></div><br />
After getting the first two connected, I found working on the necklace with it on my dress form helped. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8333167512/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8218/8333167512_4433dc8f58.jpg" width="347" /></a></div><br />
Instead of having all the chains go completely around the necklace, I ended them, slightly to the back, securing them on the longer circle chain. I attached them all to one of the circles since it is solid, without a break, so it can't pull apart. For each chain I added, I started by attaching it to the solid circle with a jump ring, bringing it around to the solid circle on the other side of the necklace and adjusted it to the length I wanted. Then I opened the chain, removed a link to make it that length, and attached it with a jump ring.<br />
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For me, the whole necklace, following the bottom chain, measures 33" with 2" extension. The bottom chain alone measures 26". <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332109665/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0656.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0656.jpg" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8332109665_b4a7c97e50.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
And all done!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8332109507/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb--2.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb--2.jpg" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8332109507_270a23db92.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><br />
I really love it and I've already worn it more than once. Yay!<br />
<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.sugaranddots.com//" target="_blank">Sugar and Dots</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/" target="_blank">Make It Wear It</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- <a href="http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Saturday</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-52491180201275045692012-12-20T00:06:00.000-08:002012-12-29T21:19:03.181-08:00Kids Bike TransformationIt took much longer than expected, but I finally finished the project I was working on for my daughter's fourth birthday! Oh my goodness it feels so good to have it done! And the icing on the cake is that my daughter LOVES it.<br />
<br />
One day while taking my son's bike to get a new tire at the bike shop right around the corner from our apartment, my daughter spotted a tiny pink bike, just her size. She had a great time riding it around the shop. At the time she just had a tricycle for herself, which she was quickly outgrowing. I suddenly had the idea to transform my son's old 12" [black, Batman] bicycle, which was in dire need of a new wheel, into a pink princess bicycle for my daughter. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8289641403/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-Black Batman Bike by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-Black Batman Bike" height="449" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8075/8289641403_7053b31845.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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When first considering the project I thought it would be fairly straightforward. Take parts off, take stickers off, spray paint, put parts back on, done. However, when I got down to the point of having everything off, I got really intimidated and let it sit for a couple days just thinking, "What on earth did I get myself into?" Thankfully my determination won out and I pushed through to the end. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8289658091/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Cat on a Limb-.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-.jpg" height="392" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8289658091_19252b743c.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is when I started to panic a bit. (I apologize for the crappy photo)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8289641569/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Cat on a Limb-Pink Princess Bike by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-Pink Princess Bike" height="563" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8289641569_d98b3dc1a1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta da!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8290742578/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0635.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0635.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8361/8290742578_31da60dd7d.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8290742714/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0637.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0637.jpg" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8222/8290742714_a3d04012a1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm so happy it turned out so well. Now on to my other 5,378 projects. :)<br />
<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.733blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Seven Thrity Three</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://sixsistersstuff.com/" target="_blank">Strut Your Stuff</a> -- <a href="http://lovelycraftyhome.com/" target="_blank">Lovely Crafty Weekend</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-6640010548221110782012-12-17T11:11:00.000-08:002012-12-17T11:11:12.846-08:00Blogging Day of Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0V24_B6_CtR7VdjnfZaQIela2_h28MXQaTl42iOt6MsLIaliINmRZObCJ_vewz-30r0fq-PG0n4T48Kh8sMhYCoQxSak9sSvV-mpC2W8ZTWI_DSsU5H4VAjBv1WNwKuj9EQhgvTJl1DLs/s1600/NationalBloggingDayofRemembrance_zpsfcb06e06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="525" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0V24_B6_CtR7VdjnfZaQIela2_h28MXQaTl42iOt6MsLIaliINmRZObCJ_vewz-30r0fq-PG0n4T48Kh8sMhYCoQxSak9sSvV-mpC2W8ZTWI_DSsU5H4VAjBv1WNwKuj9EQhgvTJl1DLs/s1600/NationalBloggingDayofRemembrance_zpsfcb06e06.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-86217612942547288172012-11-09T17:48:00.001-08:002012-11-09T17:59:03.427-08:00Easiest Dress to Skirt Conversion EverIt is extremely rare for me to find a dress that fits me with the correct shoulder-to-waist measurement or a maxi skirt that actually reaches the floor (at best they end up being ankle length). Sometimes I am able find a long dress that I can convert into a skirt. <br />
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On a trip to a thrift store I found an empire waist dress with a ruched waistband (brand new!). I realized I could simply cut the bodice off at the top of the waistband to make a skirt. It literally took about one minute. I was so happy! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8170800601/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0524.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0524.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8482/8170800601_cfa2f2654c.jpg" width="182" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8170831064/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0526.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0526.jpg" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8202/8170831064_04b572f8f3.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8170830924/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-0525.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-0525.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8066/8170830924_fda8eec2b3.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.pollywantacrafter.com/" target="_blank">Polly Want 2 Party</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.733blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Seven Thrity Three</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturday Spotlight</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-84534356582185817062012-10-27T11:08:00.000-07:002013-01-01T11:34:57.734-08:00Calendar for the Kids - Free PrintablesFor some reason many of my most vivid memories from my early years in elementary school center around the "circle time" calendar. You know, the one with the interchangeable dates, months, seasons, and weather cards. Remember those?<br>
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When my son started home-based public education (via K12.com) I knew I wanted one as part of our daily routine. I looked around at some of those offered through educational/office supply stores, but they always seemed really gaudy and kind of obnoxious looking (if that makes any sense, ha!). I wanted something slightly more aesthetically pleasing and customized with only the elements I wanted. <br>
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So I decided to make my own. The items I purchased were one 20"x30" foam core board, 1/8" and 1/4" chart tape (optional), and self-adhesive velcro. Materials I had on hand were printer paper and ink, colored cardstock, colored pencils, laminating sheets, a black marker, ribbon, and page protectors.<br>
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I began by using my big metal square to draw the large rectangle for the calendar, one inch in from the left side and one inch up from the bottom. The rectangle measures 15" high x 19.25" wide. Then I marked off measurements for the small interior squares, vertically every 2.5" and horizontally every 2.75", then drew lines across. <br>
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<a href="http://catonalimb.blogspot.com/2012/10/calendar-for-kids-free-printables.html#more">Click here to continue reading the post »</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-50797689110379603262012-10-25T00:02:00.000-07:002012-10-25T00:05:26.162-07:00Aqua and Orange Toddler Birthday PartyLately I've been tending to go pretty low-key for my kids' birthday parties. Like I said in my other party post, I usually have to do everything solo, so I don't want to wear myself out so much in preparation that I can't enjoy the moment during the party itself.<br />
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For my daughter's birthday last year, which was our first year in a small apartment since moving from the house out of state, I decided to have two different gatherings; one for family and one for friends her age. I decided to just go with colors instead of worrying about a theme, which ended up saving me a lot of time.<br />
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I had a few decorations including the über trendy tissue paper pouf thingys (which I totally love).<br />
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For the kids gathering I just had a few snacks for them, pretty-fied water bottles and whole wheat carrot cake cupcakes (which were heavenly, if I do say so myself). I dyed paper doilies and cut them out with a cupcake liner template. <br />
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For an activity, besides just playing with the toys in my kids' room (which seems to be what they want to do the most), the kids made macaroni necklaces with pasta that I had dyed different colors. <br />
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And finally, as part of the goodie bags I sent them away with some homemade playdough. <br />
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Simple, yet the kids enjoyed it, so I consider it another success. :)Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-31429579925316875062012-10-20T17:38:00.002-07:002012-10-20T17:40:23.520-07:00Is Facebook Showing You Everything You Want to See?Yes, it is a bit whiny to complain about a service that's offered for free, but I'm going to take a moment to complain about Facebook fan pages. Did you know that when you like a page, you aren't always shown their posts? That's even if you want to see them. In the past Facebook has shown posts to about 40% of fans. Just recently they changed things again and now only 10-15% fans are seeing posts from the pages they like. Of course it's based on complicated algorithms that take into account interaction with the posts, but still... So frustrating! Personally I think it would be nice if they would just default to showing everything and then people could opt out of seeing what they didn't want to see. <br />
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You may have already heard about the way around this, but in case you haven't, here's what you need to do: (Thanks to the talented people over at MCP Photoshop Actions and Lightroom Presets for this)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/156403_10151285324978274_1719174707_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/156403_10151285324978274_1719174707_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the image to enlarge</td></tr>
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Hope that helps you stay up to date with all your favorite people and companies!Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-6681887119550674762012-10-13T16:16:00.001-07:002012-10-16T21:43:20.726-07:00Fashion Museum Tour - Information and InspirationHave you checked out the website for the Metropolitan Museum of Art? It's awesome! There are so many subjects with photographs and historical information, it's almost like a mini trip to the museum. One of the departments is called <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hi/te_index.asp?s=all&t=all&d=the_costume_institute&x=9&y=6" target="_blank">The Costume Institute</a>. They have a lot of photographs of (and background about) clothing from different designers and periods of time. I love looking at clothing from the past. It's interesting to see the influence it often has on the clothing of today and how certain shapes and styles repeat themselves throughout history. If you're interested in clothing and fashion I would definitely suggest going to check it out (the name above is a link). Here are a few of my favorites:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.55.76.12a-d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.55.76.12a-d.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">Emilio Schuberth, 1952</span></td></tr>
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The ombre effect is so trendy right now, but here's a beautiful example from the early 50's!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.49.3.25a,b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.49.3.25a,b.jpg" width="323" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">Charles Frederick Worth, 1880s-90s</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.54.16.1a,b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.54.16.1a,b.jpg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">"Coco" Chanel, 1938</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.52.18.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.52.18.4.jpg" width="178" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">Madeleine Vionne, 1938 </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.53.40.5a-e_av1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_C.I.53.40.5a-e_av1.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">Christian Dior, 1949 </span></td></tr>
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Tangent: Here's a wedding cake inspired by this dress --<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/18858892159118928_zLYfM0zy_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/18858892159118928_zLYfM0zy_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thecaketressblog.com/2011/06/ago-art-gallery-of-ontario-wedding-cake-toront/" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_1997.116.38a-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/images/hb/hb_1997.116.38a-c.jpg" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="objAccessionNumber">Madame Grès</span></td></tr>
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I hope you enjoyed the little fashion museum tour. Where do you go to find inspiration (whether for clothing, art, food, or anything else)?<br />
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I'm linking up to:<br />
<a href="http://whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">While He Was Napping</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Thirty Handmade Days </a><br />
<a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/" target="_blank">The 36th Avenue </a><br />
<a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Under the Table and Dreaming</a><br />
<a href="http://www.mygirlishwhims.com/" target="_blank">My Girlish Whims </a> Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-41909950515209921472012-10-05T12:15:00.000-07:002012-10-05T12:25:25.283-07:00Toddler Puppy Birthday PartyIs everyone excited and getting ready for Halloween? Every day my kids have different ideas about what they want to dress up as, so while I wait for them to make up their minds I thought I would post about some other things. <br />
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My daughter's fourth birthday is coming up in November. I'm not sure what I'm going to do this year, but I wanted to share what I did the past two years. I usually have to do everything by myself, so my kids' parties tend to be pretty low-key. Plus, when they're so young I don't feel like it's necessary to go all out.<br />
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For my daughter's second birthday I decided on a puppy dog theme, with light pink and lavender as the colors, since she was/is pretty much obsessed with dogs. She loves to pretend she's a dog and has done it since before she could talk. <br />
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The invitations were a simple folded cardstock with torn scrapbook paper and a simple silhouette of a dog's head on the front. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8057206686/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-1.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-1.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8321/8057206686_3c2068a8da.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
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I used vinyl paw prints on the walkway and door, with balloons for a little decor outside. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/8057177436/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Cat on a Limb-3.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-3.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/8057177436_6c1624ecfc.jpg" width="326" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our [rental] house at the time was a cute 1940s bungalow painted white with yellow shutters. So fun!</td></tr>
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Inside I set up a table with some finger foods for the kids (with more balloons and vinyl paw prints for decoration). We had grapes, string cheese, carrots, cucumbers, olives, homemade graham crackers in the shape of dog bones, and homemade apple chips. <br />
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I also added vinyl paw prints to plain white cups. <br />
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The cake I made was a two-layer sheet cake (homemade, 100% whole wheat, and tasted great, by the way) that I cut into the shape of a bone and frosted white. (But I won't be posting a photo of it because when I sent my husband to the store to get whipping cream he came home with the canned variety which does NOT work for frosting a cake, just FYI. So, it turned out looking horrible and since I did the cake day of the party instead of the day before like I should have, there was no time to fix it. :)<br />
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The party favors consisted of a few dog-themed items in "doggy bags". <br />
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For activities the kids decorated the dog tags with stick-on jewels and pushed the inflatable balls around an obstacle course using the dog nose/mask. Other than that the kids just wanted to play with toys in my kids' room, and I wasn't about to fight that. :)<br />
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All in all it was a good time and my daughter loved it. That's what counts to me.<br />
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I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.pollywantacrafter.com/" target="_blank">Polly Want 2 Party</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.733blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Seven Thrity Three</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturday Spotlight</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-82388661104023670722012-08-27T22:09:00.000-07:002012-10-05T12:33:44.395-07:00Recovering a LampshadeContinuing on the same theme as my last post (lamps for my living room), I had two brass lamps I painted a pale blue color. I had found a lampshade at a thrift store for one of them, but was trying to find a shade to fit the second. On a trip to Lowe's one day I walked by this:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/6416085323/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-8268.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-8268.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6035/6416085323_44e55140ca.jpg" width="416" /></a></div>
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For a second I hesitated and thought, "Is that a mistake?" Then I realized it might have something to do with the fabric starting to fall off (which I didn't care about because I was going to replace the fabric anyway). Luckily it was the right shape for my lamp (some other shades I had seen were too short and looked odd with my tall, skinny lamp) and was definitely within my budget!<br />
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I brought it home and pulled off the outer fabric completely. The inner fabric was fine and I decided to leave it that way. When I got the outer fabric off the frame I laid it on top of the new fabric I was going to use and cut out two of the same shape (leaving some extra around the edges for seam allowance and for attaching to the frame).<br />
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After cutting out the two pieces I sewed them together, slipped it onto the lampshade frame and folded up the raw edges along the bottom and top openings, securing with hot glue. <br />
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After gluing I trimmed the excess and glued a strip of bias tape around the inside to cover the raw edge, folding over the end to make a nice, clean finish. <br />
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Thus completed my second living room lamp! <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/7878104752/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cat on a Limb-8828 by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="Cat on a Limb-8828" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8442/7878104752_114e64c1d0.jpg" width="336" /></a></div>
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----------------------------------------------<br />
I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.pollywantacrafter.com/" target="_blank">Polly Want 2 Party</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.733blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Seven Thrity Three</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturday Spotlight</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-14673024627318432652012-08-06T23:09:00.000-07:002012-10-05T12:33:19.131-07:00Lamp RevampHello! Long time no post, I know. I've started working full time and that has left me with very little time for anything other than work, domestic duties and time with the kids. But yesterday I actually made some time for a creative project and that inspired me to write about one of the projects I did a while back but never posted. <br />
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For a while I was frequenting thrift stores, looking for a couple of good lamps for my living room. I wanted two with nice shapes and lines, but not necessarily exactly alike as I would be painting them the same color. (I don't like to be toooo matchy-matchy.) Eventually I found a couple of nice lamps, but wanted to make one of them shorter. <br />
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See that tall skinny part at the top? I wanted that gone. I knew the lamp was put together in sections and thankfully that was one of them so it could be removed.<br />
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I started tearing the thing apart by first removing the socket. (Pulled off the top, lifted out the socket, unscrewed the wire terminals, unscrewed the base and pulled the wires out of it.) <br />
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(partly I took this photo so I would remember how to put it back together)<br />
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I removed the bottom piece of the harp (the thing the lamp shade is attached to) and unscrewed the top part of the lamp base. <br />
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There was an internal pipe (as with most lamps) that had threads only at the top and bottom. However, removing a portion of the lamp required cutting the pipe shorter (which would leave it without threads on one end), so I ended up having to purchase a replacement pipe and cut that one to the length I needed. <br />
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I took apart the sections of the lamp, cleaned, primed, painted and sealed them. Then I put them all back together. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/6196421710/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7366.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7366.jpg" height="479" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6179/6196421710_0b6f081ae0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Then I re-attached the socket. There are two different wires and two different screws to use to attach them. If you're ever replacing a lightbulb socket just remember this--<br />
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Ribbed = Silver<br />
Smooth = Brass<br />
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I put everything back on in order like so (except with the modified base, of course)- <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/6195910789/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7379.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7379.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6166/6195910789_107b271a82.jpg" width="387" /></a></div>
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With the addition of a $2 thrift-store lampshade I had my new lamp. Yay!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/catonalimb/6195910177/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_7374.jpg by CatonaLimb, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7374.jpg" height="500" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6153/6195910177_dc9fba9c2c.jpg" width="341" /></a></div>
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For the second lamp I did the same painting, but altered a lampshade to more closely resemble this lampshade. (I'll post that next.)<br />
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Thanks for stopping by! (And I apologize if the sentences seem a bit disjointed and awkward. It is late, and I am very, very tired right now. :) )<br />
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----------------------------------------------<br />
I'll be linking up to these fabulous link parties:<br />
<br />
Monday - <a href="http://www.craftomaniac.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craft o Maniac Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.sewcando.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Craftastic Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.dittledattle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a> -- <a href="http://etcetorize.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Make it Great Monday</a> -- <a href="http://www.pollywantacrafter.com/" target="_blank">Polly Want 2 Party</a> -- Tuesday - <a href="http://www.todayscreativeblog.net/" target="_blank">Get Your Craft On</a> -- <a href="http://www.thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sew Cute Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://thetshirtdiaries.com/" target="_blank">Upcycled Awesome</a> -- <a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/" target="_blank">Tip Me Tuesday</a> -- <a href="http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tuesday Talent Show</a> -- Wednesday - <a href="http://www.733blog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Seven Thrity Three</a> -- <a href="http://www.bargainshoppingparadise.com/" target="_blank">Wallet-Friendly Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.trendytreehouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Create and Share</a> -- <a href="http://www.somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Whatever Goes Wednesday</a> -- <a href="http://www.lilluna.com/" target="_blank">Linkin’ with Lil’ Luna</a> -- Thursday - <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/" target="_blank">Strut your Stuff Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/" target="_blank">Transformation Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.paisleypassions.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thrilling Thursday</a> -- <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/" target="_blank">House of Hepworths</a> -- Friday - <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/" target="_blank">Remodelaholic Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Flaunt it Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Friday</a> -- <a href="http://www.whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wander</a> -- <a href="http://www.justagirlblog.com/" target="_blank">Show and Share Day</a> -- <a href="http://www.funtocraft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's Fun to Craft!</a> -- <a href="http://www.504main.com/" target="_blank">Tickled Pink Fridays</a> -- <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Weekend Wrap-up Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">Catch as Catch Can</a> -- <a href="http://www.whipperberry.com/" target="_blank">Friday Flair</a> -- <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/" target="_blank">Feature Yourself Friday</a> -- <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Simply Link {Party}</a> -- <a href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" target="_blank">Pity Party</a> -- <a href="http://designdazzle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Design Dazzle</a> -- Saturday - <a href="http://nv-craftenvy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Saturday Spotlight</a> -- Sunday - <a href="http://www.thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The DIY Showoff Project Parade</a> -- <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/" target="_blank">Creative Bloggers Party</a> -- <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Naptime</a> -- <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Think Pink Sundays</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-69313229822595209752012-07-17T23:02:00.000-07:002012-09-02T10:27:03.896-07:00Today at Crafting in My ClosetHi everyone!<br />
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I'm guest posting today over at <a href="http://tapeschkecrafts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Crafting in My Closet</a>. My good friend Teresa (who has been my friend since before either of us were married and just so happens to be an awesomely talented seamstress) is putting on a great series all about summer fun with kids. My post is about making puzzles -- something my kids can't seem to get enough of!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://tapeschkecrafts.blogspot.com/2012/07/summer-fun-with-kids-make-your-own.html" target="_blank">Click HERE to go check it out!</a><br />
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Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-36757971731351802452012-06-17T21:04:00.000-07:002012-06-17T21:04:14.700-07:00Whole Wheat Blueberry MuffinsA couple days ago I walked into my local health food store where there was a huge tower of clam-shell containers of fresh blueberries. They were a 1 pint size (about 2 cups) for $2. $2?! For a moment I was tempted to go crazy and buy about 15 containers (almost), but I'm a fairly reasonable person, so I bought two.<br />
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One of the ideas that immediately popped into my head was blueberry muffins. I had only used frozen blueberries before, so I wanted to make them again using fresh berries. Seriously, no contest, I love the muffins with fresh berries much more than frozen. I found a great recipe and altered it in my usual way, plus I upped the lemon content a bit, and used rice milk in place of cow milk.<br />
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I actually forgot to preheat the oven, so the topping melted into the main part of muffins more than it would have normally, but I don't want to go buy more blueberries just to make more muffins to get the photo "just right". :) Even if not picture perfect, they were very delicious!<br />
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<b>Whole Wheat Blueberry Muffins</b><br />
(adapted <b> </b>from http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Streusel-Topped-Blueberry-Muffins/Detail.aspx)<br />
Makes 12 muffins<br />
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2 c whole wheat pastry flour <br />
2 t baking powder<br />
1/2 t salt<br />
1/2 c butter, softened<br />
3/4 c sucanat (or Rapadura)<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
2 t lemon zest<br />
1 T lemon juice <br />
1/2 c milk (or equivalent)<br />
1 1/2 c fresh blueberries <br />
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2 T whole wheat pastry flour<br />
4 T sucanat (or Rapadura)<br />
1 1/2 t cinnamon <br />
2 T butter, chilled<br />
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease 12 muffin cups or line with paper muffin cups. In small bowl combine 2 tablespoons flour, 4 tablespoons sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon. Cut in 2 tablespoons chilled butter with fork or pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs and set aside. Combine 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in medium bowl. In large bowl beat 1/2 cup butter with 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, and stir in vanilla, lemon zest, lemon juice, and milk. Gradually add dry ingredients, stirring gently. Fold in blueberries. Spoon batter into prepared cups. Sprinkle butter crumb mixture over batter in muffin cups. Bake 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Cool in pans on a wire rack. Enjoy!<br />
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I'll be linking up to:<br />
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<a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Showcase Party</a>Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7805200586565634544.post-68586170737713688772012-05-09T02:55:00.001-07:002012-05-09T02:59:29.727-07:00An Awesome SongWhile doing a few minutes of browsing around on YouTube I stumbled across this song. Why do I love it so much? Yes the video is adorable and the music is fun, but that's not why. It's because of this line:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"And if you were addicted to fabric, well you could fill a whole room in our house." </span></div>
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That brought a huge smile to my face during a sleepless night! </div>
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(As some of you know, I may or may not be addicted to fabric. Although in my defense I have not purchased fabric, other than to make gifts which have long since been made and given, for over a year. I haven't even used a gift card I was given to fabric.com! So maybe I'm becoming a recovering addict. Maybe.)</div>
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I hope you all enjoy the song as much as I did!</div>
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And now with modified movie lines popping into my mind ("Fabric is my favorite"), it's time to try to get back to sleep!Catherine @ Cat on a Limbhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225982089673647789noreply@blogger.com1