prudence rabbit

in which there is a cat with a twitching tail and an unamused zebra

2011-05-17T14:07:00.001-04:00

Benjamin is my muse.

For Illustration Friday "Safari"

it's a bird, it's a plane

2011-04-19T11:45:00.002-04:00

it's sweatermonkey!!

Hello.

Just hanging out.

Relaxing.

Being a monkey with a sweater.

He's a sock monkey made of squishable knit cotton fabric, who was just calling for a handknit sweater of his very own (simple top-down raglan, designed just for him, made of upcycled sweateryarn).

supersocks

2011-01-30T17:09:00.003-05:00

Hi there. I finished these socks today.

They are
super quick (worsted weight wool, size 4 needles)
super simple (toe-up magic cast-on, short row heel, stockinette to top 3x1 rib)
super long (knee socks are the best socks)

supersocks.

in which someone is mischievous

2010-05-05T20:07:00.002-04:00

A me-made May Day:

and yesterday:

Today, I wore another one of my upcycled t-shirt tops. This one has teeny tiny mother-of-pearl buttons from my vintage stash, and a pintucked placket. It's one of several tank top variations I made last summer from my own patterns. Dave's closet clean-out inspired a refashioning frenzy. I try to be picky fabric-wise, but I still have bags of his old clothing waiting for the scissors. . . snippety-snip!

Yesterday, I pulled out Burda 1-2009-125, as well as a me-made-necklace.

Have you noticed the mischief in one of the above photos yet? I won't mention any names, but SOMEONE with furry black pointy ears and a half-and-half face poked out a picket in my fence. The nerve!

Thankfully, I am handy with a hammer as well as a sewing machine.

I wore pants today, me-made pants

2010-05-03T21:56:00.002-04:00

These are pants, made-by-me pants. Simplicity 4110, a Built By Wendy pattern. They are comfy and so get a reasonable amount of wear. Maybe I will wear them again this month, and take a pic that actually shows some details. They have a lovely large mother of pearl button closure from my button stash. You'll have to take my word for it. Sorry.

Also note the border-collie-on-a-rope. Apparently, (imaginary) squirrels were more interesting than I was today. Hence, the rope.

Please enjoy this self-indulgent video of my dog playing fetch.

say hello to my little friend

2010-05-02T15:19:00.003-04:00

Me-Made-May, day 2:

This was one of Dave's old t-shirts, and I couldn't just let it fall by the wayside. I refashioned it into a long sleeved t using fabric from a couple of other old t's.

It fits the bill for my glamorous day of cleaning out closets and playing with dogs.

Say hello to my other new little friend, a vintage Italian-made Necchi Bu Nova from the 40s. The craigslist gods have been smiling on me lately. I grabbed this lovely machine for a steal, assuming it would need some work, but after a liberal application of sewing machine oil, it was up and running. It's smooth, quiet, and makes perfect, even stitching to die for. Lucky me!

it's may day!!!

2010-05-01T12:55:00.006-04:00

No, not that May! (our horse buddy, May, at the therapeutic riding center where we volunteer). Although she is awfully cute.

It's the first day of Me-Made-May. As you can see from the comprehensive list of Me-Made-May-er's, I'm in with the cool kids. How did that happen?

Me-Made-May, what I wore today, May 1:

The long sleeve t is made by me, from a pattern I created to accommodate my octopus arms. The cuffs and collar are finished with cotton ribbing, part of a gigantic bolt of ribbing I recently purchased. One can never have too much ribbing, can one?

And here is Sparrow to dazzle you with her prettiness.

right at this moment

2010-04-12T11:20:00.002-04:00

someone is blogging

and someone is sleeping

The sun is shining and it might be time for a W-A-L-K.

a knitting pattern for hipster princess dogs

2010-02-04T19:12:00.004-05:00

Sylvia decided that she needed a little something extra to show off her granola-princess-hipster-sheltiethingness. She couldn't let all of the other dogs with their fancy agility slip leads out fancy her.

As everyone around here knows, Sylvia gets what Sylvia wants, so, without further ado, I present the Granola Princess Hipster Sheltiething Felted Slip Lead.

Prior to felting:

And, TA-DA, a supereasy pattern, just for you!!!

Yarn: worsted weight 100% Merino wool (I used Patons)
Gauge: 5 stitches/inch
Needles: two double pointed needles, size 9
Notions: one strong metal O ring or D ring (or a metal snap to make a regular leash instead of a slip lead)

The main part of the leash is just a loooong wide i-cord. See? Supereasy!!

-Cast on 7 st on 1 dpn

-K7, bring yarn around back of all stitches to the first stitch of the row, slide all stitches to other end of dpn, K7, starting with first stitch of the row
-Repeat until knitting measures 84" (change yarn colors throughout to form stripes if desired)

-slip the metal ring (or metal snap) to the end of the knitting, fold the end of the knitting over the ring
-bring the yarn around back of all stitches on the needle, slide needle to end
-(pick up 1 st from the body of the knitting, K2TOG) repeat to end of row
-repeat last row for two more rows
-bind off
-stitch down the bound off edge
-slip the knitting through the ring to form the collar loop

-fold over the other end of the knitting to form the handle (approx 12")
-whip stitch the loose end to the knitting around the edges (approx 4.5")

-felt
-I hand felted my slip lead using hot tap water and a few drops of dish soap for about 15 minutes.

Enjoy, be hip, eat granola!

it's catmas time again

2009-12-25T22:06:00.001-05:00

meowy catmas, everyone!

and happy howlidays.

is there anything nicer than. . .

2009-11-09T14:08:00.004-05:00

. . . a starry night. . .

. . . a little cabin in the woods. . .

. . . a campfire . . .

. . . a beer . . .

. . . and a coondoggie?

Although, I could have done without the wasp plague. Hey, nothing's perfect, right?

we even make real food sometimes

2009-11-04T21:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a big day at Chez Prudence Rabbit. I made actual homemade not-from-a-can-or-carton soup.

For the first time ever.

.
.
.
.

Now that all the visitors sent my way from Heights Eats have fallen out of their chairs, let's continue.

It was a basic veggie soup with carrots, broccoli, potatoes, onions, and (gasp) real garlic.

I even took a photo of it. Cute.

I also took photos of my girldogs trying to convince me that there is a spectacular adventure awaiting us, if only we go outside right this minute.

Umm, gotta go . . . . . bye!

fun with photos

2009-11-02T21:08:00.002-05:00

Fun with photos. No, it isn't a sweet retro board game like "Dance Party: The Dance Craze Game of the 90s," which, coincidentally, I recently found in my garage. How did that get there?

I'm talking about Poladroid, the change your mediocre digital photos into nifty polaroid-like photos craze of the 07s. Better late than never.

the next big thing

2009-11-01T23:36:00.002-05:00

I have decided what the upcoming trend in my little fashion pond will be:

Oh, you might say, "The scarf. Ho hum, old news."

But no, this is not a scarf, my friends. It is much much more than that.

It is the neckerchief.

your regularly scheduled program will resume shortly

2009-10-26T21:43:00.002-04:00

It's just that someone has been taking up much of my spare time.

What's black and white and mischievous all over?

Introducing . . . Sparrow!

She's had several homes already in her first year of life, and I'm so very happy that she found her way here to her forever home. I think she likes it here, too.

featured

2009-09-02T21:31:00.002-04:00

I'm happy to report that one of the items in my shop, A Fine Hound, is featured today at Cool Etsy Items Under $20

He is a fine hound. A very fine hound, indeed.

I heart contests about sewing

2009-07-25T14:54:00.004-04:00

Surprise, surprise, I entered the recent Swimsuit Cover Up Contest put on by Singer and Craftzine.com. I am a sucker for a sewing contest.

My entries:

Entry #1, Patchwork Picnic. This swimsuit coverup is a modified version of an awesome vintage pattern from Burda Moden magazine, circa 1971, for a floor-length evening gown, complete with French darts, a deep V halter neckline, and a sweeping scooped back. I modified the pattern by shortening it, and by sewing the cover-up from a patchwork fabric I constructed entirely out of scraps from my fabric scrap pile. You might recognize the fabrics from some of my previous projects (that is, if I ever blogged. heh).

Here's the original pattern, Burda Moden magazine, November 1971. I think I mentioned scoring a number of vintage 70s Burda's from ebay last summer--and then to left you all hanging at the edge of your seats. It's all about anticipation.

Entry #2 Pool Hoodie. I found this amazing, thick stretch terry cloth fabric at the thrift store, calling out to be made into a cozy poolside hoodie. The pattern is Simplicity 3694, a Built By Wendy pattern. I modified the pattern by adding multi-colored piping and binding made from knit scraps and upcycled t-shirts.

Entry # 3, Beach Pants. This entry is for the pants only. The top is my swimsuit top. Yes, it is a momkini. AND I bought it at an LL Bean outlet store. Don't judge.

Back to the pants. . . . they are a modified version of the pants pattern in Sew You. I added a drawstring waist, front patch pockets with eyelets, and cropped the length. Voila, beach pants!!

And, just because he's so cute, here's Alex hanging out at the pond near the agility cabin last weekend.

a weekend trip

2009-04-07T13:18:00.002-04:00

We loaded up the dogs and travelled three hours south this weekend for a couple of days of romping in the woods and playing agility. Oh yeah, and enjoying the sun and 70+ weather on Sunday. Not that it's snowing here or anything right now. Oh wait, yes. Yes it is.

Dave also successfully created a campfire in the fire pit at the cabin, using a pile of twigs and a the cardboard carrier from our six pack of organic pale ale . Awesome.

Inspired by SueBeeDoo's great videos, I put together a little movie of the weekend as enjoyed by Sylvia, Alex, Spencer, and, of course, Reuben.

details, details

2009-04-03T19:04:00.003-04:00

You didn't think I'd leave you hanging about my swirly yellow tunic thing-y from yesterday's post, did you?

Straight from the pages of Burda World of Fashion, the March edition, it's 03-2009-103. As promised, it was relatively easy to sew, and I do like the "ring-shaped shoulder yoke." However, I have absolutely no clue how you'd adjust the fit of that lovely shoulder yoke if needed. Maybe slash right through the center front and center back of the yoke and add/subtract?

Luckily, I didn't have to resort to such measures, although I probably should have attempted some sort of swayback adjustment to the back. Ahem.

This fabric is a mystery synthetic knit from the thrift store. The solid yellow lining for the yoke and the armholes is part of a cotton jersey sheet. Contrary to the instructions, I sewed the armholes with a binding strip folded in half and sewn to the inside, then flipped up, instead of traditionally binding it. I also hand sewed the lining with slip stitches.

This pattern was so nice, I sewed it twice. Version 2, featuring solid blue interlock, coming soon.

In doggie news, one Mr. Alex ran himself into a tree while chasing a squirrel this week. Fortunately, the only damage was a small scrape under his eye. . . and his pride.

and so it begins

2009-04-03T00:04:00.003-04:00

I fear I have lost my personal photographer to the earnest beginning of another bicycle race training season. And at just the moment when I've decided to start catching up on unfinished objects (of which there are many) and unphotographed objects (of which there are even more).

Tonight, while the aforementioned photographer was occupied first with The Thursday Ride (i.e. the fast one), and then with the after-ride discussion about The Ride over Dewey's pizza, I was attempting to photograph one of my latest sewing projects.

The key word in that last sentence is attempt.

Various and sundry outtakes.

excuse me. . .

could you please refrain from walking in front of the camera?

I finally resorted to this:

At least Dave brought me home an entire pizza. With artichokes.

wintertree (Illustration Friday)

2009-02-28T19:01:00.003-05:00

wintertree
acrylic on paper
hand pulled monoprint

Well, hello there. I've been oh so boring and nose to the grindstone lately, neglecting my poor lonely blog. Here is a peace offering for you, a contribution to Illustration Friday. This week's theme is "breezy."

in which flannel is fancy

2009-01-21T15:20:00.002-05:00

I have a great love for all things cotton. Flannel is no exception. It's so soft, so warm, so entirely yummy. Who says flannel can't be fancy? Not me!

In keeping with my theme of clothing fit for an Elvish princess disguised as a human, I thought up a fancy shirt with a ruffle around the neck and down the front-- a big, cozy, flannel ruffle. Not being one to waste the growing stash of Burda World of Fashions I'm jealously hoarding, I pulled out BWOF September 2008, and used top 115 as a basis for the shirt.

Instead of the regular collar in the pattern, I created the ruffle collar by cutting out big circles of fabric, and sewing them end to end. I then attached the ruffle to the collar stand and the front of the shirt, and topstitched it down on the shirt front. I used hand-sewn snaps intead of buttons for the closure. I also used French seams because I'm in love with French seams.

Who says Reuben can't be fancy? Err, umm, Reuben, maybe you should go take another nap. . .

I'm a winner!!

2009-01-19T23:23:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the awesome supersweet hip and kewl BurdaStyle community, I'm a first place winner!!!

Reuben says, "You've also won first prize as the person with the nerdiest coonhound."

I am lucky.

a sequence, in pictures

2009-01-17T21:21:00.004-05:00

1.) nest? what nest?

2.) sorry, I'm sleeping right now

3.) zzzzzzz (see?)

4.) a-woo?

5.) woo?

6.) can I come back up there?

7.) please?

8.) see #1

Unrelated to the above sequence, I made this. It's a quilted curtain for the frost-covered window.

In case you were wondering, I'm home blogging on a Saturday night because I'm awesome like that.

behind every clever girl. . .

2009-01-13T17:01:00.002-05:00

from eggagogo

via unspeakable visions

The freakiest/most awesome part of this genius artwork is that Dave sports those exact glasses and beard. Well, his beard isn't quite as much of a manbeard that grows all the way up to the lips type of beard. Even so, scary!

Regarding yesterday's post, I was all eager to show my suit and, in my haste, I failed to mention my vision while creating it. I had in mind a style that has something of a Victorian flare (did Victorians have flair?) without being costumey or looking like it's straight from a Renaissance Faire. Ok, maybe a little bit Ren Faire, like an Elvish princess disguised as a human. Oh crap, did I just type that for real?

Er, moving along to my latest knitting project, the Teva Durham Loop de Loop cabled riding jacket. If my knitting patience can hold on for this entire project, I think I'll end up with a magical Victorian-esque sweater that will save me from the snow hex once and for all. (and bring me to my long lost Elvish kingdom. . .)

well suited

2009-01-12T19:56:00.005-05:00

Maybe I've mentioned this before, but Pablo the cat (the big beautiful orange furry one) loves to be in pictures. He's a curious creature, forever wandering the house getting into everyone else's business, so maybe that's the reason he often shows up somewhere within the camera frame. He also never sleeps. Dave thinks he's a super soldier.

In addition to Pablo, the above photos feature a guest appearance by Mirah, the resident fraidy cat, and my latest sewing creation, my entry to the BurdaStyle Suit Variation Contest. Ha. You didn't recognize me without my trusty jeans + sweater daily uniform, did you? Hmm. Make that 2 to 3 sweaters worn simultaneously to ward off the snow hex from the piles of snow outside my doorstep these days.

Anyway, the suit. I used the Eva and Sidonie patterns from burdastyle, with a bunch of modifications:

jacket
-widened neckline
-narrowed shoulders by adding a shoulder dart
-eliminated notch in collar to make shawl collar
-lengthened hem
-rounded front of hem
-created tie belt with button closure
-eliminated buttons on jacket front and cuffs
-lengthened cuffs

skirt
-used Sidonie 'paper bag style' tutorial on burdastyle to make ruffle
-sewed the back seam allowance down to form 2 casings for 2 strips of 1/4" elastic (to gather the back)

I used olive green linen that I scored from the thrift store in the fabulous carefree days before Other Sewers discovered and plundered my thrift store source.

grey shirt for a sunny day

2009-01-06T20:43:00.003-05:00

I dove into my thrifted fabric stash and came up with this grey jersey knit for #125 from the current (January 2009) issue of Burda World of Fashion. As drafted, the pattern calls for snaps on the placket, but I like how it looks snapless. I don't have a serger, so I did French seams for the side and shoulder seams. I added about 2" for the hem allowance.

This pattern is the sewing course pattern for the month, so the instructions are pretty in-depth and straightforward. The placket did give me a few nervous moments, so I resorted to hand sewing the very end with slip stitches.

Currently, the contents of the nest = one Ms. Sylvia. Alex is hovering nearby.

Scratch that.
Contents of the nest = one Ms. Sylvia + one Alex

maker of things

2009-01-05T19:20:00.002-05:00

The holidays have come and gone without a new blog post from me. Oh dear.

I've tidied up the attic room on my second floor where I've taken to spending a fair bit of time. It has just enough character to make it studio-like--sloping attic ceiling, dormer window, imperfect but cheerily yellow painted walls and chimney column. I make things and listen to audio books while a creature or two curls up on the still-favored nest chair.

Of all the dogs, only Spencer prefers the downstairs. The others will race up here at any chance, searching for a spot on the much loved aforementioned chair. I think Spencer is wary of the steep, narrow staircase, and he's smart enough to know that if he goes up, he must come down. Reuben, on the other hand, not so much. He's run up the stairs gleefully many times, only to whinge and moan at the top until someone goes up to coax him down the scary stairs.

Here are a few gifts, made by me, the maker of things:
Necklace: wooden beads+shell beads+sterling silver clasp

Earrings: sterling silver+shell

Snap and zipper clutch purse

meowy catmas

2008-12-24T15:27:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone has a very Meowy Catmas.

cardigan: +1
threadless T: +1
holiday-themed photo including Patterson: +2

how hounds sleep

2008-11-14T15:32:00.003-05:00

Hounds sleep many ways. They have lots and lots of practice. Here, Reuben demonstrates the 'pretzel snore' position. Do not attempt this position unless you are a very experienced sleeper.

What?

on being a third place winner three times

2008-11-07T20:46:00.004-05:00

In the past few months, I've entered several online sewing contests. Three must be my lucky number, because, to my surprise and delight, I've just won third place for the the third time.

First, several months ago, it was the Sylvia top in the My Pattern contest at patternreview.com

Next, it was the Prudence cocktail dress in the Malissa Variation Contest at burdastyle.com Third place!!

And yesterday, I once again emerged as the queen of 3rd place in the Recycle Mini-Challenge at burdastyle.com for my Recycled Esther.
Hooray!!

I used an old coverlet to make this cardigan. It's incredibly cozy for the coming winter (booo!!). The coverlet had seen better days, as it suffered from a gigantic hole in the center as well as some discoloration. I dyed it with tea to even out the coloration.

See my Tea Dying How To here

how we celebrated

2008-11-05T17:02:00.005-05:00

Of course, I am thrilled about the outcome of the election!
Dave and I went a little nuts last night watching Obama's speech, and we shared a whole mug of hot chocolate with some Irish creme liqueur. Sooooo tasty. Don't worry, we used organic chocolate syrup and organic milk.

Reuben and Sylvia celebrated by being smokin' in agility class, although they seem to have confused the whole idea, and think that our new president is string cheese. Whee! Hooray for cheese. Hooray for cheese that comes in handy shrink wrapped packages!

Foster puppy didn't really celebrate, but we hope he will be celebrating tonight, when we drop him off at his new forever home. I won't lie--I am a little sad to see him go (puppy puppy puppy puppy), but I am happy for his new family. Here is Mr. Cuteness learning a little about the ways of the world.

biking to the polls, oh yeah!!

2008-11-04T11:56:00.002-05:00

I voted, did you?

Dave gets extra hipster points because he rode a fixie.

And my sign made it through to election day unscathed. Hooray!

hot or not? picks from november bwof

2008-11-03T14:34:00.003-05:00

The November edition of Burda World of Fashion arrived into my sweet embrace on Saturday, heading off a whole week of where-is-my-BWOF-it-must-be-lost-in-the-mail anxiety. Dave thanks you, mail delivery gods.

Firstly, the cover jacket, 102B: love. I've had those poofy pleated sleeves on the brain lately, probably due to my recent ebay score of several genuine 70s era Burda Moden mags (more on those later).
If you squint, it's almost not painful to look at the seriously underweight model shot:

Skirt 110A is cute, too, although I'm not a fan anything remotely metallic. Corduroy is more my speed. I LOVE the top, but, alas, 'tis not a pattern. . .

Wellness Clothes. Burda, your quirky translations amuse me, but not enough to make me to sew myself up a cozy, erm, jumpsuit? I'll give you the neat double-breasted hoodie, though, as well as the tee and maybe even the top of the jumpsuit as a tank top, if I'm feeling adventuresome.

moo and me

2008-11-02T23:13:00.005-05:00

I know I'm late to the moo.com bandwagon, but if my life needed business cards, this is what they would look like, according to moo. Hmmm. Moo thinks I like dogs. A lot. However did moo get an idea like that?

In fosterpuppy news--he almost certainly has a new home. Yay!

so we have a foster puppy. . .

2008-11-01T22:12:00.005-04:00

He's very cute, and his name is Copper. He's a HOUND, and he actually has some self-control naturally, unlike someone we all know and love. Need a hint? Starts with "R" and sounds like arrrroooooo (ben).

Copper the foster pup is a sweetie, but he's not staying. Seriously! The rescue group might have someone interested already, so keep your fingers crossed for a good match.

trip!

2008-08-27T13:20:00.002-04:00

Soon, we (plus all four dogs) will be leaving for Vermont, where, hopefully, there will be:
a good amount of this

some of this

at least one occasion of this (according to Spen)

and more than a fair amount of bicycle racing.

the sylvia top, a design by me

2008-07-29T21:07:00.004-04:00

Here it is, my very first design, the Sylvia Top!
I've had this idea in my head (and in my sketchbook) for some time, and now I finallly have something to show for it. Yippee!

The Process:
I started with a basic sloper for a knit top, and attempted to use the directions in Designing Apparel Through the Flat Pattern to convert the bust dart to a curved yoke.
First, I moved the bust dart to where I wanted the yoke.

Then, I drew a curved line from the moved dart to the front of the pattern.

I intersected the curve along the line where the darts were equidistant.

Here's where I started fudging it a bit. . .the sloper was supposed to have a waist dart, and mine had just a bust dart, so I guessed the location of a waist dart and where it would intersect with the yoke

I redrew the yoke at the intersection point.

And then everything went to heck and I pretty much estimated the yoke line (the green curve).

Snip snip.

Here, I removed the bust dart.

Then, on to creating the pintucks. I traced the upper pattern piece, and measured out where I wanted the pintucks with a compass.

The placement of the pintucks:

I numbered the pieces and cut them apart.

Then, I retraced each piece with a 1/2" strip in between. Voila--the upper pattern piece!

Here is my first muslin. I didn't use a knit, and I had to cut myself out of it after squeezing it on. Eeep! Lesson learned.

The pintucks seemed ok, so I just used the yoke outline to create the second muslin.

I thought there was too much fabric in the lower piece, and not enough curve in the bust, so I subtracted more in the dart area from the lower pattern piece.

I traced the finalized pattern onto my chosen fabric (knit cotton gauze), sewed it up, and there you have it, the Sylvia Top!

a message from your wild rabbit neighbor

2008-07-25T17:03:00.002-04:00

dandelions are good for you.

why yes, there is more where this came from

2008-07-15T21:23:00.006-04:00

I'm on a roll, a sewing roll. I also actively joined patternreview.com by posting my very first pattern review (the Burda top from the previous post). The peeps over there are super nice and left me all sorts of sweet comments. I have to say, though, that browsing all of the fab creations makes me totally insecure about my sewing skills. Must add to the to do list: learn fitting and pattern alteration.

Today's completed sewing is Simplicity 3773.

And the necessary picture with a dog:

I didn't like how the pattern cut away at the front armholes. I know it's a design feature, but it bothered me that the collar overlapped the armholes, so I re-drafted the front of the armholes (ha--that sounds so fancy for my eyeball-it-and-guess technique) to provide more coverage.

I used self-fabric binding for the armholes, and I hand sewed a wide running stitch around the collar to topstitch it. I used the reverse side of the fabric for the binding and the collar, to create a slight contrast. The fabric is a cotton print that my brother and SIL gifted me. Thanks for the shirt, bro and SIL!

Tonight, my guy raced his bicycle at a local weekly race. I opted to stay home and walk the dogs, so I missed him winning a prime (one circuit of the race) for points. Way to go, one can never have too many points. His highlight of the evening was trying out a very expensive pair of bicycle wheels.

My highlight of the evening was a couple slowing their car as I walked Spencer so they could tell me I was just like Victoria Stillwell. Of course, being the cable-less type, I had no idea who Victoria Stillwell was, so I just smiled confusedly and nodded. Of course, at that instant, the neighbor's loose 10 lb. poodle/maltese mix charged across its lawn ferociously, thankfully stopping at the curb, and Spen lost his marbles. The car sped off.

Patterson's highlight of the evening was lounging luxuriously on one of the throw pillows I scored at the thrift store last night, specifically because I knew the cats would flip over them.

pintucks are grand

2008-07-13T22:15:00.004-04:00

If you sew, Burda World of Fashion will change your life. It will. It's like looking through a fashion magazine, except where the fashion mag says, "buy this for $$$$$," BWOF says, "make this yourself, pattern enclosed."

It will also make you absolutely neurotic about the mail delivery once a month. Or maybe that's just me. . .

This top is #101 from this month's (July 08) issue. It's cotton knit jersey and it's my first go ever at pintucks. It could be a tiny bit more snug, but that could be due to my slightly (ahem) imperfect measuring of the pintucks. The pattern called for facings, but I used self-fabric binding instead.

This past week, I sewed, and sewed, and sewed some more. Unfortunatly, the sewing machine didn't completely drown out the carnival. Yep, carnival. A church about a mile away is having its annual festival, complete with rickety carni rides and much screaming and loudspeaker music. The sound of carni rides et al. carries suprisingly well, in case you were wondering.

Go away, carnival. I miss my normal quiet existance, with no screaming (well, except from the occasional above-ground pool party two doors down), no loudspeaker music, and definitely no rickety rollercoaster noises.

happy(?) fourth

2008-07-04T14:17:00.003-04:00

As you might imagine, today is not the favorite holiday around here. The festivities began last night with a gigantic fireworks display at the country club across the street.

Sylvia and Alex were not amused.

Poor Alex took it the worst, following me around the house and hiding whenever possible. Even with all the windows in the house closed (thank goodness it was chilly outside for July), he looked like this.

On the other hand, the cats remained unconcerned. . .
(D'Arcy and Pablo)

. . . as did a certain hound, who slept through the "festivities."

vintage sewing, 70's style

2008-07-03T19:17:00.004-04:00

I just completed my first attempt at sewing a vintage pattern. The accomplishment somehow compelled me to strike an emo pose, complete with "jazz hands" and "looking thoughtful." It also forced me to put on a pair of leggings. Ooh leggings, how I've missed your early 90s stretchy comfort.

This is Simplicity 9372, direct from the 70's, via Sandritocat's Etsy. I was her 300th customer, so I snagged a bunch of sweet vintage patterns at a fabulous price.

Is there anything more awesome than a sailor collar?

I think not.

Except, perhaps, a hound-approved sailor collar.

The pattern is pretty straightforward. I did have to add darts to the front and deepen the darts in the back for the fitted look of the pattern envelope drawing. According to the envelope, this pattern features, "the new narrow shoulder look," where "the shoulder length of the pattern is shorter and the head of the sleeve is higher." It has a tiny dart on the top of the sleeve head that helps a bunch with the ease at the shoulder seams.

The fabric is orange and yellow seersucker from my stash. When I bought it for some ridiculously cheap clearance price, the cutting table clerk asked, "And what are you going to do with this??" I think I mumbled something about pillowcases or bags. Had I known what it would really become . . . I still would have mumbled something about pillowcases or bags, but I would have been smiling, thinking about the awesomeness of sailor collars . . . and leggings . . . and emo poses.

messenger bag #2--done!!

2008-06-17T15:41:00.002-04:00

So not only is Dave a good musician, he's also excellent at modelling messenger bags. What talent.

This is the bag I made for my brother, finished just in the nick of time. It's based on Simplicity 9000, like the one from last week, but I made a few more modifications. Instead of sewing it all together with bias binding, I sewed all the pieces to each other. I also chopped apart the pattern piece for the flap, added seam allowances, sewed the top and bottom flap pieces together and turned it inside out. Then I put it all together kind of like I put a tote bag together (see this Totes 101 tutorial), being sure that I pinned the strap and the flap to the right seams before sewing.

This beastie came from my sketchbook, via the power of the Transfer Tool.

give me an instrument and I shall play it

2008-06-15T23:43:00.002-04:00

Very cool generous friends gave Dave a tempura today. Dave picked it up and started playing it, just like that. Then, he looked on the internet, and learned how to play it correctly, just like that.

Apparently feeling musically inspired, he then wrote a song about overeducated slackers (see this article “We read, we talk, we laugh. Life is good. I never dust” ).

He then proclaimed that the tempura was his coolest possession, ever.

Erm?????

things that grow despite my inattention

2008-06-12T22:06:00.002-04:00

I can take no credit for these things that grow in my yard despite my nearly absolute inattention. They seem to be doing just fine on their own. They seem to like it here on my natural and slightly wild little half-acre.

Other beings require quite a bit more of my attention, namely, Spencer the Beautiful But Evil Genius. He thinks he can save the world, or at least this slightly wild little half-acre. Umm, no thanks Spen, everything's under control.

Dave and I went thrifting yesterday, and I scored this quilt, as well as several more (wool, angora, cashmere!) sweaters for the continuing sweaters to yarn stash project.

I'm adding the quilt pic to s t i l l, and this one, too:

three for s t i l l and a hound's work is never done

2008-06-11T20:18:00.002-04:00

s t i l l going strong, including three today, from me.

Reuben+Dave, Dave+Reuben. They seem to have an innate understanding of each other, a special bond.

Maybe it is because they both like me so much? (Yeah, that must be it).

Or could it be that they are the same being, split in two? They're two chips off the same block, many slightly silly parts combined to make two very good wholes.
One good hound.

One good human.

messenger bag . . . finished!

2008-06-10T17:07:00.003-04:00

Nearly finished, that is! I still have to decide what type of closure I want to put on this bag, but the rest of it is totally totally finished. It's based on Simplicity 9000. I decided to forgo the red nylon in favor of a soft and hefty cotton upholstery fabric. I also made my own bias binding from the cotton floral print lining. I added about three inches width to the main pattern piece, and I merged the two shoulder straps into one long strap. Honestly, you really don't need a pattern for such a simple bag, but I picked this one up at a 5 for $5 sale (like most of my excessive pattern stash), so I figured I'd put it to use.

This was actually my test run--I intend to make another one out of greenish fabric for my brother's (fast approaching) birthday. I think I'll add some length to the main pattern piece and make the strap skinnier where it hits the shoulder. It could also use an inner pocket or two, and maybe a zipper.

Today's contribution to s t i l l :

my lucky day, it's a hot one

2008-06-09T20:50:00.003-04:00

If you're wondering what we do around here when the mercury hits 90F, well, we get out the doggie pool, of course!

We pant a lot (the dogs more than me, but only slightly).

We hang out in the shade. . .

. . . or in the sun, if you're Reuben (he hasn't quite figured that one out yet).

And, we get to see Spen being silly instead of intense.

Ok, ok, in addition to being intense.

Oh, yes! And we sew. More on that tomorrow, when it's (fingers crossed) finished.

As far as my luck, it's flying high--I just won one of six packages from the extremely generous and talented Ysolda in her blogaversary contest. Thanks Ysolda!!

Also, if you haven't yet joined, check out s_t_i_l_l, a still life photo project this week only, started by Uniform Studio.

a quickie

2008-06-08T23:35:00.000-04:00

good. night.

books, and a new spring (summer) top

2008-06-05T15:29:00.003-04:00

Here is the aforementioned library booty. Teaching myself pattern drafting seems rather ambitious, but, seriously, how hard can it be? (Famous last words).

Here's a knit top I made several months ago in anticipation of summer. It was wishful thinking then, big time, BUT summer is finally here.

The pattern is Simplicity 3882, view D, the one in the scary red camo print. As much as I love camo, I opted instead for a solid gray-ish lilac-ish knit that I picked up a while ago from the thrift store.

I did add 3 inches to the hemline, and if (when?) I make this one again, I'll add some length to the bust pieces, too. There was just about no fabric to work with to make the casing under the bust.

Overall, it's a quick sew, and quite comfy, too, especially for sitting around pretending I'm going to teach myself pattern drafting.

rain, flowers, libraries, life!

2008-06-04T15:45:00.004-04:00

We had a warm summery rain here last night, moistening everything and popping out a few flowers in the yard.

Baby maple leaves:

NOT a flower.

Also, have I mentioned how much I love my local library systems? Sewing and pattern drafting books galore! Online requesting! A library branch just steps away from my house, no gas needed! Tax dollars at work, making people happy!

More things making me happy:
-compressed air=dave's computer, fixed!
-listening to Nina Nastasia, right now
-seeing thee silver mount zion tra-la-la band, TONIGHT!!!

oh!!! I forgot to mention, it looks like there will be pears in the fall. Lots and lots of pears.

from pants to purse

2008-06-03T15:29:00.003-04:00

Whatever happened to the rest of the pants from the waistband to bracelet project? They became a bag! With a fish!

I printed the design on the fabric with the amazing and useful Versa Tool, which ReadyMade mag mentioned recently. I subscribe to the ReadyMade magazine. I'm such a wannabe yipster (or is that yuppster? or hip-uppy?).

The fabulous lining with inside pocket:

The basis for these designs came from my sketchbook + some playing around in Photoshop.

I'm no chef

2008-06-02T15:12:00.002-04:00

Who am I kidding? I don't even cook.

However, today, I made. . . drum roll please. . . a FRUIT SALAD!!!

The strawberries awaiting their participation in this momentous event:

My confidence in food-related areas is soaring, so I will now share my lastest indulgence, Traderspoint Creamery yogurt. Thank you, Grass Fed Cows.

a little something made by me

2008-06-01T22:24:00.002-04:00

Hello there, remember me?
Here's a little something I made today, an embroidered fabric bracelet cuff. The fabric was from the waistband of a pair of old pants. After a little snip snip with my seam ripper, and then letting the sewing machine have its way with a lovely spool of variegated green thread, this cuff came into the world. The button is from my vintage button stash.

progression of a print (a tutorial of sorts)

2007-07-18T11:37:00.000-04:00

A finished print:

I made these prints using an extremely low-tech and easy process of use-what-you-have and fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants.
Specifically. . .
1.) sketch a design

2.) get take-out from your favorite restaurant, or, if you're like me, eat at your favorite restaurant and stuff yourself until you can't eat anymore, then take the rest home. If your favorite restaurant still uses styrofoam take-out boxes, you're in luck.

3.)cut out a piece from the styrofoam take-out box. Trace your design onto tracing paper, and transfer it to the styrofoam using a pencil rubbing. If you're adventuresome, draw your design directly onto the styrofoam.

4.) Use a pointy, but not too sharp object to impress your design into the styrofoam (I used a knitting needle). Voila, instant print block!

5.) Ink the block. Using a brayer is best, but you can use a wide paintbrush in a pinch. I used plain ol' acrylic paint that I had on hand.
V. important: keep cats away from inked block

6.) Place paper over face-up print block on flat surface. Smooth paper onto print block using a spoon or a cylindrical object. I used my Mod Podge jar.
V. important: keep cats away from cylindrical object

7.) Peel off paper, lay out to dry. Repeat from step 5.
V. important: keep cats away from drying prints

8.)Enjoy!
Somewhat important: keep cats from enjoying prints

P.S. one of these prints is on its way to the 5x7 art swap (sans cat).

sew sew, knit knit, cat cat

2007-07-16T23:38:00.000-04:00

I made this:

I'm making this:

Patterson does not approve:

He says humans are not to knit or sew. They are to hold and cuddle Pattersons, always.

The sewing project is Simplicity 3788. It was extremely easy, and quite adjustable. The top is a drawstring that slides through and ties. I did use elastic in the casing for the waist instead of a drawstring, but that was the only change from the pattern.

The knitting WIP will be a tank top (eventually). Knitting takes f-o-r-e-v-e-r. Hmmm, impatient much? I tried to work off of a pattern, but my knitting fingers got antsy and my mind wandered, so it will be create-as-you-go like most of my knitting projects. It's just stockinette in the round, two color stripe, with waist shaping so far, in plain ol' cotton.

nothing says good morning like cat puke in your kitchen

2007-07-08T20:58:00.000-04:00

Which one of these little darlings was the culprit? At least it was on the floor. At least it didn't include little rodent body parts (another splendid benefit of indoor only-ness). At least nobody stepped in it, or, erm, attempted a do-over . . .

Hork!

Recently, we visited Allegany State Park and stayed in a cabin with four dogs and no running water for four days and three nights, 'cause we're awesome like that. Well, not that awesome--the bathroom was directly across the dirt road, and it was cleaned every day (which is way more than my own personal bathroom sees a scrub brush). It was like having a cleaning lady (almost). Our Dave raced his bicycle for our favorite Team 'Snaykebyte,' 'cause he's awesome like that.
Our cabin, lucky # seven(teen):

"Why are you hiding behind that tree?"
"'Cause I'm awesome like that."

In the woods:

At the campsite:

OK, that's PLENTY of photos of "us on vacation."
No, wait, one more. . .

On to the crafting:
I finally broke down and subscribed to Burda World of Fashion. I only signed up after Borders stopped carrying it right before I decided that I couldn't live without the June issue. How could they?
My sewing fingers are itchy with all the Burda goodness at their tips.
I actually finished this top from the June issue, a modified version of #118. The unmodified pattern has a giant bow across a super lowcut neckline (so not awesome). I raised the neckline, got rid of the bow, used two contrasting fabrics (refashioned reclaimed fabric from two older shirts), and added bias binding for the sleeves, neckline, and hem. Voila!
The skirt is Butterick 3526, in twill.

urm. . .hello? (+sheepish grin)

2007-06-20T22:33:00.000-04:00

hello, world, it's me, prudencerabbit. Remember me? William the small shy cat will now give you his impression of a sheepish grin to show you all what I look like right now. It's not a very good impression, but it's the best he's got.
I don't have pretty green eyes like he does, or soft bunny-like fur (despite my self-appointed blergie moniker).

I have been up to a few things since I last dropped in here. Vacationing,
hiking, sewing, crafting, thrifting, and overnight agility-ing. But more on all of that later. . .

I'm still feeling like I did below--I need to go catch up on some zzzzzz's.

lazy spring day

2007-05-08T17:14:00.000-04:00

good for . . .

sleeping. . .*

yawning. . .

more sleeping (!) . . .

and PITA CHIPS!!!!!!

*Recipe for neat crocheted green afghan: some luck + a weekend visit to the thrift store.

a walk by the river

2007-05-07T20:23:00.000-04:00

Today was a good day for a walk by the river with a friend. It was also a good day for lying in the grass in the backyard while Alex ran giant laps around me, zooming in to leap over top of me every 10 seconds. (sorry, no pics of that--just imagine a split-second view of the underside of a yellow dog with a long flowing tail)

Oh, and it was a good day for working on a new bag design. And enjoying sunlight. And windows.

goodbye april, hello may

2007-05-06T13:04:00.000-04:00

We're already a week into May, and so far, so good. Hellooooo May. Hello sunny sunny days and no bugs (yet).
In celebration of springtime, here is a new 'spring top.' Simplicity 3835. I could just leave it at the number, thereby disguising that I have sewn yet another Built By Wendy, but I'll admit it. So there. I'll also admit that Dave and I play an email game we call 'things u like,' where we email each other pics of things the other person likes. Creative game title, no? Wendy has found her way into my inbox more than once. She's in good company, with the likes of mac-n-cheese, VW camper vans, and border collie puppies.

In addition, I picked up the April copy of Burda World of Fashion, and I'm working on my very first Burda shirt, #125. Work in progress:

While Spring has been lovely, it hasn't been all fun and roses, or blooming crabapple trees, as the case may be.

Poor Ms. Sylvia had an unfortunate run-in with a twig that lodged itself between her toes under the skin while she was busy keeping her yard squirrel-free. Darn misplaced sticks!!! Fortunately, after a trip to the vet for twig-removal and x-rays (just in case), she is back in tip-top shape, or so she thinks. We have one more week to go of no running around. Wish us luck. Little Ms. Speeddoggie cannot fathom why she's not allowed to go go go!
A happy speeddoggie, prior to the Stick Incident. . .

Soon enough, Sylvia, hang in there. . .

going sew u crazy (and more of what i've been up to)

2007-04-03T12:34:00.000-04:00

These past few months, I've been loving Wendy Mullin's patterns from Simplicity and from her book, Sew U. Here are a couple of those projects I completed a while ago, and have been wearing like crazy, but haven't blogged about yet (heavens!).
Pants from Sew U:

These are sooo comfy in tan denim. I left out the pockets and the topstitching for a dressier look, so I can secretly wear jeans to work (shhhhhh!).
I used 2 pearly snaps in place of a button at the front.

Simplicity Built By You Jacket:

The dusty plum corduroy was from my favorite thrift store. I had just enough fabric for the jacket, and not enough for pockets. Who needs pockets, anyway, when you have a nifty satchel? (also made by me)

More fun we've had lately:
-Sylvigility in the backyard
-Dave's band 'rocked out' at their CD release party
-speaking of the CD. . .
cover art by yours truly (wheee!)

-Neko Case + Beachland Ballroom = AMAZING

-fun in the park with my guys:
-and Springtime HIKING!!!!

road. . . trip

2007-03-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

Not really a road trip, just a day trip for agility training. Sylvi was so happy and into it-running and jumping and tunneling like a pro--yay! The crew were good quiet little travelers, even Houndy McHounder, though he does like to announce our presence at every rest stop and/or gas station. Especially gas stations. Yes, hello, we're here, at the gas station, getting gas. AROOOOOOO. We're the ones with the coonhound in the car. Arooooo arOOOOOOOO. The coonhound with the gas station radar. Aroo?

Thankfully, Mr. Patterson Cat is back to tip-top shape and his very mischievous self. He did not like taking pills ONE BIT, and made sure to use every swear word known to cat to express his opinion.

Coincidentally, I was feeling under the weather as well for a few days. It's a good thing most of the animals know just what to do when the human is sick, which, of course, is to sleep directly on top of said human, preferably in a large pile. And/or steal the human's kleenexes and toss them around the room (ahem, Alex). Thanks guys, I'm feeling so much better.

I've been totally delinquent in posting a pic of the awesome and hilarious piece of artwork I received from the 5x7 artswap. It's so great! I couldn't tell from the packaging wich artist from the list sent it so I can't give proper credit, but here it is:

under the weather

2007-03-05T12:44:00.000-05:00

Send any spare vibes our way for Patterson Cat (or Mr. Patterson, as he prefers). He's been under the weather all weekend, which, in cat terms, means that the contents of his stomach found themselves in places where they shouldn't find themselves, including on top of his very tolerant Uncle Dave. His Uncle Dave was generous enough to forgive the unfortunate misplacement of stomach contents and kindly escort him to the doctor today for xrays (clear, thankfully) and medicine.

Other highlights of the weekend:
-reaching a new low: being excited about getting carded on my 30th b-day
-Saturday morning crafting (Sew U, the shirt, coming soon), listening to
John Vanderslice, Pixel Revolt
-Reuben the hound's extreme excitement over recall games with me+uncledave+KIBBLE, hilarious
-receiving my 5x7 artswap piece---it is awesome!!!! Picture to come soon. . .

30

2007-03-02T12:10:00.000-05:00

Here I am, at four, exactly 26 years ago today. I remember I didn't want to wear that hat because it itched, but my aunt had me put it on for the picture. I remember being thrilled about the cake, and that it was vanilla. I'm amused that I was a weather wimp even back then-note the turtleneck+sweater combo underneath my party smock.

In the birthday blogging tradition, here are thirty fascinating things about me:
1: I love bananas, but only if they are sweet and over-ripe
2: My absolute least favorite food is beets. Or steak-um. Or beets+steak-um, and why don't we add some vinegar while we're at it. . .
3: I wasn't obsessed with dogs until the 4th grade when I read a book about a girl adopting a shelter dog. Obsession still going strong.
4: I love the smell of lighting a match.
5: I hate the sound of people clipping their nails.
6: I own three bicycles.
7: I haven't had short hair since the 1st grade.
8: My kitchen walls are painted pink, pepto-bismol pink.
9: I still dislike the former owners of my house for painting the kitchen pepto-bismol pink.
10: I'm too lazy to repaint.
11: I've been with my SO for 7+ years.
12: We had no pets when we started dating.
13: Now, we have 'several' pets.
14: We enjoy going to the movies, dancing, and long walks on the beach (no, not really)
15: We enjoy going to shows (really)
16: like the thermals, who we saw last night
17: and took photos here, here, and here.
18: The first movie we saw together was Boys Don't Cry.
19: We made out in the movie theater.
20: I used to be allergic to cats.
21: Apparently I'm cured, because now I have 'several' cats.
22: I'm a lefty.
23: Fascinating, I know--I'm stretching.
24: I still remember the smell of the soap in the bathroom at kindergarten.
25: I get nervous easily.
26: My SO tells me you can't tell, but I have my doubts.
27: I bought my house so the dogs would have a big yard to play in.
28: I was an English major in college.
29: It bothers me to end a sentence with a preposition, but I still do it.
30: Here comes the sun. It's making me smile, and giving me a sneaking suspicion that someone will be going on a secret bicycle ride soon. .

The End.

red

2007-03-01T12:34:00.000-05:00

I scanned this drawing last night after flipping through one of my older sketchbooks, which in turn prompted me to spend some saved up giftcards on several tubes of paints at the craft store last night. Really, I was there only to use the 40% off coupon on one small item, but we all know what comes next. . . my basket is suddenly full of paints + stuff + fabric--how did that happen? I did find a nifty soft quilted denim/faded cotton check fabric in the clearance section that might be absolutely delicious as pants. Quilted pants!

On the doggie front, I'm attempting to teach them a new trick, inspired by this video. At this point, I can get Alex to walk along between my legs, but I'm still trying to get him to put his feet on mine. Hmmm. . . .

mobster superheroes

2007-02-28T11:06:00.000-05:00

That was me, the one in the purple cape. Because mobster superheroes wear purple capes, don't'cha know. . .

I could probably leave it just at that. The awesomeness of this poloroid speaks for itself. I will say that my mom wasn't too keen on the idea of toy weapons, so we improvised. My brother made that 'machine gun' himself out of wood scraps (boys will be boys), and I dismantled my toy vacuum cleaner for the green 'club' peeking out from under my cape (tomboys will be tomboys, but we won't give up our sweet purple capes).

so, cats. . .

2007-02-27T11:49:00.000-05:00

Oh, how I love cats,

especially my cats
who are cute when they yawn

and cute when they cuddle

and cute when they sit around admiring themselves for their great beauty. Excuse me, handsomeness.

They are not cute at 3AM when they are ripping up junk mail (ahem, D'Arcy!!!), but that's ok. I forgive them, and then they are cute again.

Here is a new pouch for my ID and my train pass. I made it. The cats did not help.

For once, I mailed something on time--my contribution to the 5x7 ArtSwap. I don't think it's arrived yet (US postal service, don't fail me now), but check out the link for some of the other swappies' artwork that has reached its destination.
Here's my contribution:

driving at night

2007-01-27T22:53:00.000-05:00

That is all.

No, I lied. That is not all.
I'm very excited to be a participant in the 5 x 7 Art Swap. Check it out! Sign-ups are closed for now, but it appears there will be another round, so keep an eye out and join up. The more the merrier.

hounds heart reubie snacks

2007-01-24T13:41:00.000-05:00

Dave so very kindly took pics of me and Reuben the Wonder Hound at obedience class last night.

There were many Reubie Snacks given for good behavior

and there was much rejoicing
yaaaaaaaay.

made by me skirt, and wintery romping

2007-01-22T11:24:00.000-05:00

My latest project went from this (from last week):
to this (last night):
and I'm wearing it right now--hee hee! I made it from the basic skirt pattern in Sew U, the Built By Wendy book, modified slightly wider at the bottom for more of an A-line. I also used the green binding (cotton jersey from a thrifted sheet) at the waist instead of using the facings. The pockets are my own design, just rectangles with the bottom corners rounded using a roll of masking tape as a guide. The fabric is a tweedy purple and green with flecks of yellow, from the thrift store. I heart thrifted fabric. Note the Pablo cat tail in the corner of the pic. That cat has a camera-dar, seriously.

Also on the crafty front, I tried kool aid dying some super chunky recycled yarn from a thrifted sweater.

Dave was very very busy this weekend I sure hope he's not being mesmerized by the official website of Team SnaykeByte in this pic. The rest of us had a spot of cabin fever, some of us more than others, ahem, Alex and very very bad Alex.

At the point that the cats started wishing I had never brought that stupid camera into their sacred abode, , I decided to gather up the dogs for some wintery romping.
You rang?

Got the stick!!

Throw the stick!!!!

You're bringing the camera outside, too?

look up, it's new

2007-01-09T09:44:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello, what's this? It's a brand new banner for prudence rabbit. It only took me a year to figure out how to get a banner up there. I really must learn html. I feel quite illiterate when trying to read my template.
Oh yes, and disaster was only very slightly averted on Saturday when I had the bright idea to move to the new blogger. I thought all the changes I had formerly made to the template through the guess and peck method were gone forever. And what earthshaking changes those are. Background color! Font changes! Column width!!! I feel like I am spelling out C. . .A. . . T, C-A-T, kuh-at, CAT!! I got it! If only they had taught us this stuff in grade school, where 'computer class' consisted entirely of playing Word Muncher and Oregon Trail.

In other news, it's been a legwarmer revolution around here. With the cold blustery winds, I had a chance to put these legwarmers I made last year to good use. Don't they look ever stylin' with my red Chucks?

Also, we had a banner day (ha ha?) at the thriftie:

We picked up a bunch of fabric/clothes, including some nice hoodies, which are hard to score thrifting, and a hand-crocheted afghan. Dave found this hoodie for me--super-score!

After a couple of months off from our monthly agility seminar, we went back on Sunday. Sylvia was rad (that's for you, ds), and hardly sniffed at all, until the very last short sequence of the day--I think she was tired. She even did the weaves (12 poles!--we've been practicing) and Bud said she's "starting to look like a trained dog." He cracks me up. Yay, Sylvia!
Here's what she did when we got home:
She must have rested well, because yesterday she was full of it, even initiating wrestling Reuben in the yard, along with her usual chase games.
Alex, just because he's cute, and because he and the other boys were good travelers to our agility day.

I'm still enjoying the camera

and I was an artsy little busy beaver as well.

teaching a new dog a new trick

2007-01-03T20:11:00.000-05:00

You can teach a new dog a new trick, sort of. Here I am trying to teach Reuben to roll over. He has no idea what he's doing, but he gets an A for effort. Note how he attempts to roll over by stretching his long spindly leg as far as it will go without actually losing contact with the floor.

Here's one of Alex, aka "kibble whore." He'd sell his mother for a piece of dog food.

It's fascinating how different they all are. I worked them all tonight on some of the level 1 games from the
My Smart Puppy book. Alex started doing spontaneous rollovers when he knew I picked him to play first. He knows he's hilarious, and does everything with a huge grin on his face. Spencer got a little goofy (for Mr. Serious There's a Job to Do Somewhere in This World and I'm Here to Do It) when it was his turn, but then he was all business, blue collar dog that he is. Reuben had an absolute cow waiting for his turn. Having a green dog does make me appreciate the patience of the older crew (Dave, stop laughing, Alex is patient, erm, most of the time). Methinks the Karate Coonhound and I need to log quite a few more days of "wax on, wax off." Good thing I enjoy the journey, erm, most of the time.

Oh yes, and Sylvia was a princess, as usual. Princesses love purple:

gift craft

2006-12-28T12:56:00.000-05:00

I finally uploaded recent crafty pics from my old camera. The giftcrafting pace hit feverish for about 4 days (including a late 'night before'). It finally progressed from this:

to this:

and the new red shoulder satchel I couldn't give away (and the freebie buttons I picked up at a local record shop):

It matches my new red Chucks, how could I?

The satchels and the blue hat and scarf are my own design. The white cable scarf is the Irish Hiking Scarf from hello yarn.

Also, there are zillions of new pictures of my pets on flickr. I can't get enough of the new camera. It's normal to take pictures of my pets all evening, and then dream about taking pictures of my pets all night, right? Cleek, cleek, cleek!

new camera!

2006-12-27T10:58:00.000-05:00

Right now, I have itchy fingers for the new Nikon D50 digital SLR we bought each other for Christmas. Ooh la la. I cannot get enough. It will be even more fun when I figure out how to use it for real.

I didn't think it was possible, but doesn't Benjamin look even more hipster doofus, err, I mean 'handsome' with the new fancy camera?

I almost didn't get these pics in the grocery store because Dave was convinced I would get us into BIG TROUBLE. C'mon. What better place to put the camera to the flourescent light challenge?

wishing:making:trying:spying:visiting:skating

2006-12-15T14:48:00.000-05:00

wishing:
I had sweet hair like this.

making:
a video for a backdrop for Dave's band's latest show at an art gallery

the. perfect. snowball.
(thanks to the perfect snowball maker)

trying:
a camera a friend is selling

while coveting another camera.

spying:
on the cats, to be sure they're behaving

visiting:
a local record shop

and skating:
(or attempting to skate) to Black Cab and other indie goodness

a race, a hat, two little bags with wristie-sliders

2006-11-29T11:36:00.000-05:00

The recent glorious weather has led to much enjoyment of the outside world this past week. Sunday brought with it another bike race, this time on a farm, right through the fields. The BIG NEWS of the weekend was that there will now be even more bicycle races right through January. The excitement never stops. Really.

Nor does the excitement stop when training for obscure dog sporting events. This one is known as tracking, wherein someone (the 'tracklayer') walks through a field and drops an object (the 'article') at the end of his path. The dog is to sniff along the path and find the article. Dogs find this game immensely satisfying. Trust me.
Spencie at work:

In other BIG NEWS, holy crafternation batman, new projects abound! The above hat, modeled while in progress, now lays finished upon my desk (sadly unphotographed). I used a variagated green and white cotton/rayon blend yarn, recycled from a thrifted sweater held together with green merino wool, size 10 circ + dpn's, and a made-up pattern. I call it the Chunky Hiking Socks Scully.
Also, my little crafty brain has been crafting up ideas for a small square purse with a wristie-slider and my new obsession, snaps. Here are the first two prototypes, more shaping and designing to come. . .

sunny afternoon

2006-11-22T15:37:00.000-05:00

Just popping in here with a hello on a sunny afternoon. They let us out early today from work (oh so lovely), so I'm revelling in the sunshine, as are the puppers. Here are the dynamic duo of S + A running around the yard just a few minutes ago, crunching through the leaves and pretend-chasing a flock of birds flying overhead.

i sew pants

2006-11-15T14:09:00.000-05:00

Hurrah hurrah, it's time again for the new pants dance!
I made these pants The Small Object style, except I used McCall's 4261 (yoga pants) as the base pattern instead of the pajama pants pattern.
They're quick and easy, even for me, and I'm like a turtle, if turtles could sew.

Or I'm like a manatee. If manatees could sew, they'd be slower than turtles, even, I bet. Ever since we heard a story on NPR about chilly manatees hanging around the warm water nuclear power plants discharge, I've been chasing Dave and freezing him with my icicle fingers, calling him my nuclear wastewater. Ah yes, love is in the air. Now that I've read more about Florida's Mermaids, however, I think that the obvious chilly one us might be less like the 'gentle giants of the water' than the one who walks around in shorts and a tee in mid-November:

"At rest, manatees will close their eyes and either hang suspended at the surface or lie prostrate on the bottom. They open their eyes to surface to take a breath and close their eyes again when going back to rest."

"They feed 6-to-8 hours a day in sessions of 1-to-2 hours."

"Manatees like to scratch themselves, and may use their flippers to do so"

"Manatees sometimes sneeze, resulting in an explosion of bubbles."

"Manatees usually eat about 10% of their body weight per day in fresh plants, but sometimes will eat up to one fourth their body weight per day."

Ok, ok, just teasing. None of this sounds like someone I know, except maybe the sneezing thing. Protect your eardrums, another one's coming!!

the original chilly williker

2006-11-13T13:04:00.000-05:00

It is a sad day. I have entered the ranks of those people. The people who dress their dogs in clothing. The people who sew plaid overcoats for their coonhounds. Can you tell how absolutely despondent I am that this day has come?

deja zippy

2006-11-06T13:59:00.000-05:00

Dinner at Tommy's, once again.
Sigh.
It's just that good.

Dave worked off some of that milkshake yesterday. I looked on, and put the two youngest through their paces. They're becoming old hand at this bike race scene, except for the part of the scene that involves deathly aliens disguised as cute little white dogs. Just ask Spencer.

Don't fear, crafters, I haven't completely fallen off the craft wagon. I have two completed sewing projects to share--one for me, and one for someone else, someone with sad short fur not meant for the wintery north. Stay tuned, I may actually post pics, eventually . . .

how to be a good hound

2006-11-02T20:14:00.000-05:00

by Reuben

1.) lay quietly and chew on your bone a lot. This wins you points especially when everyone else is running around doing stuff.

2.) be nice to your brother(s) and/or sister(s). They will let you follow them around and do fun stuff like pretend someone is at the door.

3.) this is a hard one. Don't zipper your brother on the neck all the time to get him to play. I'm still working on this one.

4.) give your human full attention when she talks to you, especially when she says, "Are you hungry?"

5.) wag your tail a lot when your human scritches you on the neck.

6.) when all else fails, use this look. It works every time.

halloween contest

2006-11-01T20:14:00.000-05:00

halloween contest
Originally uploaded by prudence rabbit.

the illo on the right is my entry for the Black and Orange Halloween contest put on by Penelope. the layout is from the contest page by Penelope Illustration.
check it out: penelopeillustration.com/projects/halloween2006/index.html

what he thinks is creepy, i haven't a clue. what i think is creepy a smidge, is him.

in chains

2006-10-26T20:00:00.000-04:00

a happy ghostie
for illustration friday
:)

mirah and . . . mirah?

2006-10-25T09:47:00.000-04:00

I have great love in my heart for two Mirahs, one, this singer/songwriter, who may be the best singer/songwriter currently on the scene:

. . . and this Mirah, princess kitty of all princess kitties. Yeah, we are giant dorks and named her after the aforementioned Mirah. It suits her--she's got pipes, though a bit more dissonant than the original Mirah. Maybe we should have named her Polly Jean.
(the day after I found her--we weren't ready to admit yet that we were sunk)
(this may have put us over the top)
(what she looks like these days, content, happy, confident that her princess ways--and loud mouth--will win her everything her heart desires)

ps--a correction for the last post. The race stats were incorrect (heavens!). Dave had to recalculate his yards per second, so he would not have won the B race. He still would have beat a bunch of peeps, though. Rock on.

on super champions, and a bit of crafting

2006-10-23T10:50:00.000-04:00

Dave raced cyclocross this weekend. Twice. I took Reuben and Spencer on Saturday. They both did quite well, the dogs, that is, with the crowd. Dave came in last. Loser! If only he had been Junior National Preteen Super Champion of All Preteens Cycling Winner 1990. Just think of the local bicycle races he could be winning now! Just think of all the scintillating conversations we could have! Not to mention all the celebratory prize money dinners at the Winking Lizard!

Just teasing. See Exhibit B above to see what fun he has, even when last. He has even more fun now that he figured out his yards per second and determined that, even though he was last in the "A" race, he would have won the "B" race yesterday. Take that, "B" Race Sandbaggers!!!

On the homefront, a good chunk of yesterday went to Halloween costume crafting. It's a secret, but I will tell you that it involves a blonde wig. And pajamas.

I'm also working on some refashioning, from cable knit cardigan to messenger bag.

Patterson, watching me craft:
Since last month, he has been insisting that his name is Peter Patterson.

two zippies, no peppers, please

2006-10-13T21:45:00.000-04:00

We went to our favorite restaurant tonight, yet again, Tommy's on Coventry. It's slightly embarrassing, actually, not that we go there at least once a week, but that we order the exact same thing every time. Two 'zippy' cheese, veggie, and sunflower seed sandwiches, no peppers. One order of fries. One order of broccoli risso as an appetizer. One chocolate milk shake, two glasses. It's just so good. We can't bear to order anything else. mmmmmm. The best part is the crispy grilled cheese with sunflower seeds that melts off the side of the zippies.

captured by kittens

2006-10-11T00:16:00.000-04:00

It's the kitten's fault. I've been captured by kittens and rendered incapable of doing anything productive. Every time I see her, I must pick her up like a potato. A princess potato.

She's been with us for over a year, yet I'm still compelled to kiss her tabby cuteness constantly. She is one powerful little being, I tell you.

rain rain go away

2006-09-30T09:49:00.000-04:00

Yes, it is raining here in Cleveland, YET again. Raining and cold. So long September, welcome October and the short slide into winter. boo hoo.

One thing to be happy about--Tara Jane O'Neil is coming to the church this Sunday!!! *love* She's an artist as well as a musician. Check out this neat poster she did for the show:

We did have a lovely outing at a park by the lake this week, with a picnic,
yeah, just pizza ;)
and hanging out while Dave practiced cyclocross with his bike buddies

One more pic--my fav blue raincoat. It's from the thrift store, of course, and it's vintage London Fog. You can't see in the pic, but it has sleeve cinches with d-ring buckles around the bottom of the sleeves.

doodling, knitting, and jennifer o'connor

2006-09-20T21:37:00.000-04:00

here is some doodling because i was doodling, and some knitting because i was knitting.
the knitting is the irish hiking scarf from Hello Yarn.
the little people are from my left hand onto the paper.

Additionally, and completely unrelated, watch this video of Jennifer O'Connor.

We saw her play at the House of Blues recently, which was a total fiasco due to the fact that:
1. it was the House of Blues
2. unbeknownst to us, the aforementioned House of Blues had scheduled a jumbotron viewing party of the ohio state football game prior to the show
3. the headliner attracted a crowd consisting nearly entirely of fratboys and fake tans

Despite the unfortunate scene, she was so very cool.

Check her out.

completed sewing and cats who love new things

2006-09-19T13:59:00.000-04:00

I left you with a mighty cliffhanger re: the completion of the Built By Wendy pants. I assure you, they are safely finished, however, sadly, they remain unphotographed. Instead, here is a finished tank top, just in time for summer's ending (boo hoo). Pattern, Simplicity 4587. Yee haw. That one only took me weeks and weeks to complete.

We happened to be at a small craft fair over the weekend, where we purchased this lovely green corduroy cat bed. Fortunately, our cats are of the variety who are completely fascinated with new things, and fall madly in love with anything new in the house. Except the battery-operated bug jar. That one was a bust.

Patterson making sweet love to the new cat bed:

rock on

2006-09-16T20:44:00.000-04:00

select shots from the

humphry clinker show last night.

safety scissors

2006-09-13T09:01:00.000-04:00

Here's a little digital illo for Illustration Friday. I was thinking along the lines of 'funny farm,' for this happy character.

She came to be while I was working on a t-shirt design to wear to Dave's band's show on Friday. I'll be wearing the t-shirt, not just the design. Lyrics for one of the band's songs include, "There's no running in the safe house without safety scissors." The T will be my first tentative foray into the world of ink-jet T-shirt iron-ons. Wish me luck.

urban lakeside

2006-09-07T10:34:00.000-04:00

We stopped by a small urban park on the lake on the way to Dave's band practice on Tuesday. No dogs allowed (we didn't know, boo hoo), so it was only a brief walk on the path as Reuben Hound was waiting in the car, parked in the shade.

Oh yeah, I haven't mentioned it yet, but Reuben the Wonder Hound is officially staying with us. :)
For the reasons, see this pic:

Dave, it is entirely your fault, I have photographic proof. *hound love*

Speaking of the Dog With Large Ears, I brought him and Spencie along last night to agility class with Sylvia. I worked the boys outside the building after class when everyone was leaving. They did so well, it made my little heart flutter. Sylvia was ON, too, weaving like she actually knows how to do it (from both sides!!). Who'd have thought--practicing does help. . . I must get videographic proof of Ms. Weavy McWeavepole.

On the craft front, I've been working on a (tiny, not very exciting) secret project for Someone who may have a B-day coming up. Really not exciting, you will laugh when you see what it is.
Also, if I ever get a spare minute, I'll finish the Built By Wendy pants I've been laboring over for the past week. World's Slowest Sewer, that's me.

the mosquito and the pear tree

2006-09-01T10:21:00.000-04:00

I stayed outside late last night after the sun went down, sketching and drawing and swinging in my chair swing, listening to Alex Yellowdog explore the overgrown corners of the yard. How pleasant that the crickets' August chirp overpowers the mechanical whir of suburbia.

a short walk in the woods

2006-08-31T10:20:00.000-04:00

We went for a short walk in the woods yesterday with the hound and little Miss Sylvia sheltie-pants before Dave was in a bike race. I didn't want to overdo it with the hound (he's young yet), but the woods were lovely, even for a short time, with the sunlight coming through the branches.

silver mt. zion

2006-08-28T11:36:00.000-04:00

Last night,
Silver Mt. Zion was absolutely amazing. Beyond words amazing. Their music reaches down inside of you and resonates out through your core.

full happy monday

2006-08-22T10:16:00.000-04:00

1. dave picks me up, reuben (coonhound) in tow
2. first stop, edgewater park, the sky is lovely
3. next stop, bent crayon for an oh-so-beyond-words-cool
will oldham show
4. no pics, but yum, dinner outside at liquid planet
5. dusk, the prettiest time for driving home, or passengering home, as the case may be
6. play with much-spoiled puppers (oh joy to have a work-from-home uncle dave) who are happy happy to see me
7. sleep with 3 kitties curled up next to me, purring away

a new flyer and a sketch or two

2006-08-17T14:15:00.000-04:00

The "craft grrl" will possibly be part of an entry for the Craftzine/Etsy contest, if I figure something out in time. I was thinking of somehow printing it onto a canvas tote.

Reuben the houndy boy is way to cute for his own good. Must. . . .resist. . . .houndy . . . cuteness. . . .help. . . .
I took him out to meet people after Sylvia's agility class (in which she was totally on, btw). He has been reserved and shy around new people, but he does warm up quickly. Poor boy is really hand-shy of new people sometimes. :(

Last weekend, I took houndy boy and Alex the yellowdog to watch Dave's bike race. What Alex did to pass the time:

Once, two years ago, he saw a racoon down a sewer grate. Ever since, he insists on checking out any sewer grates or openings. Keeping the world's sewers safe from racoons, that's my yellowdog.

In other news, I think I managed to scratch my throat choking on a misguided piece of carrot two days ago. It still feels weird. Who does that???? I also managed to alienate yet another coworker by saying, "Hey there, elevator buddy," when we happened to be in the same elevator for about the 5oth time this week. She didn't laugh. And you wonder why I hide in my windowless office all day.