MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

NEW RESOLUTION FOR 2011!!!

My 2010 flew by, with very little sewing done. And almost nothing completed. So I have have a new resolve for 2011. I am going to sew! I've cleaned the sewing room out so I can at least get into the room, bought a new sewing table for my machine, and am ready to sew.

So this is a great time to sign up for the 2011 Vintage Sew Along - January is pattern selection and muslin, February is make and share. I've got scads of vintage patterns I'd like to try.

Here are the primary reasons I haven't been sewing:

Two little elves and a pixie came to live with us.

A worthy effort to allow you to make a direct impact on the lives of people in Iraq. PLEASE think about what you have in your house that can be used to make clothing, blankets, etc., and send it to this effort coordinated by a U.S. Soldier.

Go to: http://minnesota.publicradio.org/collections/special/columns/news_cut/archive/2009/08/iraqi_bundles_of_love.shtml for news coverage.

Go to website at: http://ibol.wordpress.com/faq/

This is the FAQ.

Iraqi Bundles of Love

---

FAQ

What is a website if it doesn’t have frequently asked questions?

1. Is it OK if I’m the point of contact for my guild / group / coven / demolition derby team? Absolutely!

2. What APO address should I use? When you leave me a comment, I will contact you with all the details.

3. Is there specific “not later than” date by which boxes need to be postmarked? 01 October (it’s a Friday), giving the boxes time to get here and to their final destination before the winter sets in.

4. What do you mean – self contained bundles? See the page on building a bundle.

5. Can I tell others about this? Sure — send them the URL (ibol.wordpress.com).

6. I’m not in the US. Isn’t there an easier way, than mailing stuff in the wrong direction? Nope. There use to be a way to do this, through Superhero Ken in the NL, but he’s (gasp!) retired back to North Carolina. I’m trying to find another way to do this.

7. If I’m not in the US, does it really matter what size box I use? Nope. It absolutely does not matter (for anyone!) what size or type or style box you use. The beauty of the flat rate US Postal System boxes is that they’re just $12.50, no matter the weight, but if that’s not an option, send whatever works for you.

8. What, no love for knitters? What? Of course there’s love for knitters. Send yard. Send needle thingies. Send the Yard Harlot.

9. Since I’m mailing stuff from the US through the USPS, can you tell me about this customs form requirement? Absolutely. The link with details is here. It’s a 2976-A, aka the big form. It really doesn’t take very long to fill it out — it asks for details on the sender, recipient, and contents. You can even fill it out online, here.

10. Is there a shorter URL I can use in Twitter? Yep — this this one: http://bit.ly/y55uo

11. How much time do I have? Stuff needs to be in the mail by 01 October, in order to make it there in time.

I am preparing four boxes to go. I hope you can do the same.

Happy Summer!! Coming Up for Air

Hello Friends:

Sorry I've been away so long - I know I've said that before! But with the new job, things have been hectic. As a matter of fact, I couldn't really even get into my sewing room if I needed to do so.

But with the long weekend, I'm hoping to get some time to sort things out so I can get in. I already moved three large containers full of fabric to the basement for "long term storage". I think I could outfit almost everyone in my neighborhood for a year.

I also think I need a different set up in the sewing room - the three folding tables are great work surfaces, but in the tiny room they take up too much space. So going to investigate one of those fold down cutting tables, so I can put it up only when needed. I saw at IKEA a nice workstation with a table attached to a larger set of shelves. That might be my solution for one wall.

And I'm itching to get back to sewing. Almost not worth making summer clothing now, but too warm to sew wool for winter. I'm sure I can find enough in my super-sized stash to keep me busy.

On the vintage pattern front, I found two stunners from the early 60's. The first is the standard Jackie K (before she was O) princess line dress with matching jacket. The second is a full skirted and neck bow with shaped jacket outfit. Neither my size, but good enough to be able to size fairly easily. Now I just need some time!

So that is the latest and the greatest from me. I can only cross my fingers and hope that I will have time this weekend.

Sally

Sew Spoiled: Sew Spoiled Weekender Tote Sew-a-long!

Sew Spoiled: Sew Spoiled Weekender Tote Sew-a-long!

Great idea. I am joining in. I also posted info and a link on my much neglected sewing blog:
http://sallysews.blogspot.com/2010/04/great-idea.html

I need to get my sewing mojo back.

Great Idea

Here is a great idea! Sew Spoiled (Leah Williams) featured a large weekender tote bag in the March issue of Sew News, but was not happy about how the pattern was featured. SO...
she is hosting a SEW ALONG to make the bag.

This is a photo from her site of a completed bag:

I am going to join the sew along in an attempt to get my sewing mojo back and in operation. Here is the timeline:
Here is the Time line...
Gather Fabric and supplies- - - - - - April 17- May 1 (2weeks)
Cut out the pieces - - - - - - - - - - - - -May 2- May 8
Outer Shell Pleats - - - - - - - - - - - - -May 9- May 15
Straps and finish Outer Shell- - - - - -May 16- May 22
Pockets and Magnet Clasp - - - - - - May 23- May 29
Lining and Finish the Tote- - - - - - - May 30- June 5

Go to her blog for details: http://www.sewspoiled.blogspot.com/ The post outlining the rules is from April 14/2010.

And the free pattern is at her website: http://www.sewspoiled.net

Hello, Am I Out There?

I have not touched my sewing machine since just before Christmas. Well I did touch it, but it was acting up and the bobbin thread was a mess, and I just didn't have the patience.

Part of the issue of not having any "sewing mojo" as so many call it is in the photo above - three little urchins! I love them though. But every weekend, and sometimes twice a week, mean less sewing for grandma.

I also started a new job - full time - and the move from part-time work/consulting part-time is causing havoc as well. I have a 40 minute to 1 hour commute each way, so that cuts considerably into my day.

Do I have sewing ambition? Oh yes. At the JoAnne's Simplicity sale a few weeks ago I got four new patterns - including a cool jacket I love. Well Blogger isn't cooperating, so I can't access the site and show it to you. Drat! Oh and I bought a KnipMode magazine that has a jacket and a pair of pants I'd quite like to make. AND loved the plus size things in the March issue of Burda.

And my fabric buying is still going on. As a matter of fact, just last week I stopped at Joanne's and found some fleece remnants perfect for an Easter Bunny delivered blankie. Hum, are you seeing a theme here?

Meanwhile, I have been crocheting off and on, and even took a knitting class. So I've moved some of my time into those categories as well. So stay tuned, I might be able to do something this spring . . . after taxes are done. And Z's 5th birthday is over. Sigh.

2009 Recap- Part I - How Did I Do Against My 2009 Goals??

Time to recap the 2009 progress on my goals. Hum, did not make all of them. But that is why they are goals, right??

This year my life seemed to speed up considerably. My consulting business was booming for the early winter, spring and summer - in May I had an all time high number of projects. Too many in fact. I acquired a new granddaughter, which makes three from this family brood, five overall. And that has taken up a considerable amount of time, especially with d-i-law having difficulties before and after delivery. And I was a bit depressed for quite some time all year, although that seems to be clearing. There were times when I could have/should have been sewing, but didn't. So overall, 2009 was an overwhelming year. I hope to mitigate that feeling in 2010!

I have some creations I have not listed, so that will make up Part II - just as soon as I get time to take a few photos.

Purple font is a quote from my 2009 goal setting post. [Progress rated on a 1-5 scale, with 1 being best].

"In 2009, these are my goals: + No new fabric purchases!!!!!! Sew only from my stash ( which is extensive), with the exception of zippers and lining (if I can't find something in my stash). [Since this is a 2009 deadline, this week I ordered from Fabric.com, fabricmart.com and equilter.com. Technically, not purchased in 2008!!!]

I did very well the first six months or so, then threw this goal to the wind. But I also don't think I purchased as much as I have in the past. So while my stash grew, it didn't grow as much proportionately as in previous years (how's that for rationalization???). [3 out of 5]

+ Learn to Quilt on my New Used Quilt Designer Machine!!!!! I want to learn to use this machine to the fullest.

This machine made my sewing this year easier. Not just on quilts, but on clothing - the buttonholer is a dream to use, the quarter inch needle setting great. I really like this machine. Did I learn to quilt? Well, a bit. But still much more to learn. I'm trying to get up the courage to try the quilt I made for my brother, but it is HUGE and my machine is small. [2 out of 5]

+ Make One Item from Each Burda Plus and/or Burda World of Fashion Magazine Acquired!!!!
I have three issues of Burda Plus, with the fourth coming my way in January, plus several BWOF issues. BUT I have been hesitant to actually make anything - the idea of tracing and preparing the tissue seems to be a barrier. But I will overcome this barrier in 2009 and make one thing from each issue I acquire.

Ha, ha, ha. Spoken like a true optimist. I did eventually make two items from the Burda magazines. They haven't been hemmed as yet, but I want to get that done this weekend. I did copy off several patterns. But I added to my stash with two KNIP MODE magazines (incredibly expensive, but I wanted to see what all the fuss was about), from which I've copied four patterns, and am thinking about a fifth. Now I just need to get these things made! And I have overcome the barrier of tracing the patterns from the magazine, so I can declare progress on this one! [3 out of 5]

+ Make at least one item for myself from the vintage patterns I've collected!!!!
I have a bunch I've picked up here and there. I used the men's pj's for a Christmas present. Now I want to make at least one dress out of the vintage patterns I've picked up.

Same story as above really. I have one copied and partially adjusted, but haven't made anything. I'm bad. [0 out of 5]

+ Finish the Unfinished 2008 Projects!!!!

I made some progress here, but haven't finished them. Several of the eight pointed star squares are sewn together, and all have been "squared up" in preparation for sewing. This project is actually not just a 2008 UFO, but dates back to 1999 - so it celebrated its 10th anniversary this year! Whooo hooo! Happy New Year.

On the Paris Flea Market quilt, I have all the blocks sewn, and the large one squared up for patching. Still need to square up the small ones. And I have another UFO - the Oriental Geisha quilt I need to finish for my Round Robin - from 2007! This is beyond ridiculous at this point - must make it a priority.

I created only one UFO in 2009. I joined a group of sewing enthusiasts that were working on the faceted jewels pattern. I have all my pieces cut out, but have not put needle to fabric as yet. [1 out of 5]

Average Rating of Progress from 2009: 1.8 - not great,
not even average, just so-so.

Back to Blogging!

Wow, it has been a long time since I blogged! Can't believe I've been away so long, but things have been hectic here. Two new babies in the family, two little boys to help care for as their mommy had a series of complications following baby's arrival, interviewing for a new job - things have been busy this fall.

The upshot of it all is that I will be moving to a new job, effective 1/4/10! I will be working at a local community college as their Grants Administrator. Should be an interesting opportunity - a newly created position, so lots of trails to blaze.

And through it all, I have been sewing! I actually achieved one goal I had for this year - I made a piece from the Burda magazine. Actually, I made two. I don't have photos of these as yet, but plan to get some in the week between Christmas and New Year. The items I made were:

SKIRT 137B/ Sept 09 Burda

I made this skirt, which has an attractive back that you can't see in this drawing. The bottom 1/3 is flared or draped. The rest of the skirt is a plain pencil skirt. I planned to make the jacket as well, but found I needed to adjust for larger bust and add to the arms - well by the time I got things worked out on paper - it just didn't seem as though it would fit. So that idea was abandoned and I plan to make a jacket from a Burda Pattern Company pattern.


DRESS 407/ Burda Plus Spring 09
I made this dress in a heavy, nicely drapy poly. I added about 8 inches to the tie to make it a longer and floppier tie. I really love this dress, although it was a mistake a minute (sewing the two side seams together as the center back seam, etc.) I'll post a photo soon.


AND I've been sewing and crocheting my Christmas presents - hats and scarves, shawls, pajamas, nightgowns, pullovers - lots of things. Still have a bit to go in the next week.

Finally, my Cincinnati Five Crazy Quil group got together for the first time in months and months for a Christmas event. This is our photo below, with a digi-scrapbook frame.

So have a Merry Christmas everyone, and a Happy New Year!!!!!!!

Happy Anniversary!!

Today is our 23rd anniversary! Hard to believe we have lasted that long! Yet 1986 does seem so very far away.

Here is a little digital scrap I did as part of the BlogArtist Scrap Train (see here). The entry says "If you would like to dress up for the trip, download our “little naked skeleton” and doll it up for lots of tricking or treating. Be sure and post your masterpiece in the ScrapArtist Flickr Group." However, you have to be a member to do so, and I am not. So I am sharing it here!

My New Grand Daughter!

Introducing Breasia Leigh. She was born on Wednesday at 2:20 p.m., weighting in at 9 pounds 10 oz, and at 22 inches long! And she is a prize winner in the fat little cheeks department.

(Not crazy about that name - I was lobbying for Piper.)

Now I have an excuse for pink dresses!

My New Great Nephew!

My oldest niece had a baby last night. He is nameless at the moment, but she is leaning to Kalin. This is baby and mommy just after the birth.

October 21st, 8 pound 10 ounces.











And here is grandpa with the baby an hour or so later.

He was born on the 33rd anniversary of the passing of our father. So there is some sort of symmetry in that, isn't there??

Pattern Review Wardrobe Contest

After considerable deliberation, and hesitation, I've decided to enter Pattern Review.com's Wardrobe Contest. You must sew 10 pieces that all cordinate, using at least one a patterned fabric and one item being a topper.

The graphic on the left is my sewing plan. My first project will be the navy wool suit (on the top right side) and an off-white pearlized silk (second top from left).

All the items I've chosen are from Burda. One of my goals this year was to make at least one item from Burda, and here I've set up 10. I substiuted a dress for one of the tops.










As long as I was making a plan, I decided to include one for some supplemental sewing after the contest ends. These are featured on the page to the left.

Now I don't really expect to finish it all up by December 1st, but that could happen. It will give me some guidance and structure to make sure things get done sooner rather than later.

Here are three of my latest vintage pattern finds. The dress to the left is copywriter 1964. It looks very "Petula Clark" (for those of you who are boomer age). "I know a place" where this could quite nicely fit in.

The coat pattern below is probably from a few years earlier. I snagged it because I'd tried on a pink velveteen coat at an antique mall earlier this year that is almost exactly the same style as the coat on the right, but didn't get it. And have been regretting it.

Finally, the summer top must be from the early 50's, but I'm not certain. Don't know why I got it - just appealed for some reasons.

I have a stack of vintage patterns and magazines that I've purchased in the past few months that I will scan and post from time to time this month. I hope you enjoy it.

Mad Man Yourself - Create a 50's Advatar

This is fun - a variety of hairstyles, clothing and scenes. This is what I look like at the ad agency - martini in hand of course.

Go - do you too!

CLICK on post title to go.

New Vogue Patterns

I was online this a.m. when the email notification came that the VOGUE website had new patterns for Fall/Winter. I immediately looked to see and here are the interesting patterns. Italicized text is a direct copy from the website. CLICK ON ANY PHOTO TO GO TO A LARGER VIEW or click on title above to go to the What's New page at Vogue Patterns.

Two new "companion" patterns from Sandra Betzina. I do like the top and its' semi-corset look. And it is nice paired with the skirt (and obi in pattern). I just don't like that they are presented as separate patterns - they so obviously go together. The top is a must buy for me - I love it and can see it with just slightly longer sleeves, working for me.
Skirt: Flared skirt is very loose-fitting at hip, with “outside” darts. A: invisible zipper, underskirt, contrast hem band, waistband and ribbon or trim. B: back zipper closure, optional hem band and ribbon or trim. C: obi has contrast ties.
Top: Semi-fitted tops A, B have princess seams, upper bodice extending into cap sleeves and optional lining. A: large hook and eye closures. B: concealed hook and eye tape closures.

And THE FORTIES ARE BACK!!! as Vogue magazine in September declared. There are several forties inspired and two new vintage reproductions.
VINTAGE VOGUE 1945 courtesy of Victoria Dougherty
MISSES' JACKET AND DRESS: Semi-fitted, unlined jacket has waistline seam, darts, tucked peplum and three-quarter length sleeves with gathers at lower underarm seam, shoulder pads, bound buttonholes and buttons with option to cover. Dress, lower calf length, has fitted, sleeveless bodice, straight skirt with pleated back, round neckline in front, applied bands in back, forming v-neckline and side zipper. AA (6-8-10-12) EE (14-16-18-20)
VINTAGE VOGUE 1950 courtesy of Laurie E. Wiest
MISSES' COAT, DRESS AND BELT: Very loose-fitting, reversible flared coat A has stand-up collar, patch pockets with flaps and below elbow length kimono sleeves with deep cuffs. Fitted, sleeveless dresses B, C have lined bodice, v-neckline, darts, side zipper and side vent openings. B: belt. C: patch pockets with flaps and purchased belt. BB (8-10-12-14) FF (16-18-20-22) (NOTE: YES, 1950 is still the 40's - this goes back to the turn of the millennium argument - was it the year 2000 or 2001?? I vote for 2001.)


This is a new design, but the late 30's/early 40's feel is very evident. I like the lines, but am not certain if it would look good on me, given the emphasis on the bust.
Above ankle length dress, semi-fitted at hip, has gathered neckline, short sleeves gathered to form drape, above waist seam, back zipper and back slit at neck and lower edges.

Another new design, but again, late 30's/early 40's shine through.
Lined dress, partially interfaced, loose-fitting through bust, has front underbodice, midriff, two-piece sleeves, side invisible zipper closing, front loop with hooks and eyes, above mid-knee length. AA(6-8-10-12), EE(14-16-18-20)
Marcy Tilton has a jacket pattern that I quite like, that might be on my list too.
Semi-fitted jackets A, B have pockets, underarm gussets and front zipper closure. B: silk-screened embellishments. Package includes Marcy Tilton's instructions for silk-screening.

Perhaps I have a warped sense of humor, but I found the following coat pattern to be FUN and sort of CRAZY with great detail. Hum...may have to think about this one too. In velveteen it could be quite "kicky". Lined coat, fitted at bust, flared, mid-calf length, has front darts, back princess seams, turn-back collar with back slit, long three-piece sleeves with band and cuff, side seam and front welt pockets, detachable capelet, embroidery floss for decorative knots at lower edge and snap closures. Purchased hat. (WHERE DID THEY GET THAT HAT??? IT MAKES THE OUTFIT.)
The skirt on this one is standard, but I quite like the jacket. I might have to consider this one. I may even have something similar in the stash - I think a new Kahliah Ali from Simplicity has a similar look in front - it would be easy to add the pleats in back. I'll have to look.
Loose-fitting, lined jacket A has yokes extended into three-quarter length sleeves, front princess seams, back pleats, bias collar and snap closures with button trim. Semi-fitted, tapered, above mid-knee skirt B has faced waistline, center back vent with pleat underlay and back zipper. Separate pattern pieces provided for A, B, C, D cup sizes.
What do you think about this jacket? I like the drawings, but I am hesitant when there isn't a photo of "the real thing". There may be problems in the pattern. I like the lines though, especially the final version in slate blue. Could be very cute.
Loose-fitting, lined jackets A, B, C have darts, waistline seam, collar, front band, side seam pockets, dolman sleeves, shaped hem and topstitch trim. A, B: button and buttonhole closing. C: button and loop closing.
And the final "highlight" is this interesting pattern. I don't think the photography does this any good, but look at the line drawings. This could be very very interesting with the right combo of fabrics. And the circle inset at the back is very interesting too.

Loose-fitting, flared coats A, B, below mid-knee, have collar, collar binding extending into tie ends, deep armholes, contrast yokes, patches, applique, binding, side front pockets, front button closure and long sleeves with elastic. A: contrast upper collar and lining, wrong side of fabric used for trim detail will show. B: contrast collar and ribbon trim on back. BB(8-10-12-14), FF(16-18-20-22)

Very Sad News

My cousin, David Bowyer, was critically injured in a motorcycle accident in Oregon on the 18th. He is severely brain damaged and the family has been advised that there is no chance of recovery. A few thoughts and prayers for him and his mum and sister would be appreciated.

He goes by "DETROIT DAVE" in the biker community.

This is coverage of the accident:

Brother Speed Pack Crash

Sat, Sep 19, 2009

Twenty-six members and associates of the Brother Speed Motorcycle Club were involved in a chain-collision motorcycle accident on Interstate 5 north of Portland, Oregon about 2 pm Friday afternoon. The crash happened at milepost 282 south of Wilsonville, Oregon.

A tight pack of 28 bikes was riding in the middle of three north bound lanes at about 70 miles an hour when two sport utility vehicles driving side by side panic braked in front of the pack for an unknown reason. Traffic was light, the road was dry, the sky was blue and visibility was good. The road captain and the leader of the pack, the lead two bikes, counter-steered around the SUVs.

The other 26 motorcycles did not stand a chance. An eyewitness described what happened next as “a pile of motorcycles.”

Who

Brother Speed is a three piece patch club with ten chapters in Oregon, Idaho, Utah and Montana. Everyone in the pack was from Idaho. They had come to Oregon to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of the club.

Ten bikers were injured seriously enough to require medical treatment.

Herbert Sinclair, 48, of Heyburn, Idaho, and David Bowyer, 44, of Coeur d’Alene were helicoptered to separate Portland area hospitals. Sinclair is in Oregon Health Sciences University Hospital and Bowyer is in Legacy Emanuel Hospital. Both men are listed in critical condition.

Juan Ramon Mata, 60, Christian J. Gankema, 40, and Gary Pawson, 38 were also hurt in the crash. They were transported from the scene by ambulance.

Melee

Police have not yet named the other injured motorcyclists or identified the drivers of the sport utility vehicles.

Clackamas County Sheriff’s Deputy John Naccarato described the scene as “a melee.” Five ambulances, ten fire engines and five police cruisers responded. The northbound lanes of the freeway were closed for four hours.

2 dozen motorcycles crash on I-5 in Oregon

Video still from Jet Ranger 2 over Interstate 5, south of Wilsonville.

Story Updated: Sep 19, 2009 at 9:57 AM PDT

By Meghan Kalkstein KATU News and KATU.com Staff

WILSONVILLE, Ore. – An accident involving almost 30 motorcycles just south of Wilsonville on Interstate 5 Friday afternoon injured several people, two critically.

The crash happened at about 3 p.m. near milepost 282. LifeFlight airlifted Herbert Sinclair of Heyburn, Idaho and David Bowyer of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho to Oregon Health Sciences University and Legacy Emanuel Hospital, respectively. Both were motorcyclists.

Representatives of Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue said that it treated eight patients for shoulder and hip injuries and broken bones. They were also taken to area hospitals.

The accident closed northbound lanes of Interstate 5 for over two hours.

The motorcyclists were part of a local motorcycle club called Brothers Speed which was established in May 1969, according to its Web site. It has chapters in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, specifically in Portland, Ore. Camas, Wash., and Boise, Idaho.

Oregon State Police said the motorcyclists were riding in standard formation – two columns – when traffic ahead slowed suddenly. The two lead motorcyclists were able to avoid a collision by maneuvering clear of the stopped traffic, but the rest of the motorcyclists could not stop in time, causing a chain-reaction of crashes with the rest of the group.

A witness to the crash, Terry Scott, said he and his girlfriend were driving northbound from Salem behind the motorcycles when he witnessed an SUV, that was driving in front of the group of motorcycles, suddenly slow down or slam on its brakes.

“It was a domino effect,” Scott said. “There were bikes and people and gear flying.”

When Capt. Mike Towner of Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue arrived on the scene with his crew from Wilsonville he said "it was ordered mayhem. There were almost two dozen motorcycles scattered across the freeway, and firefighters from Aurora and Canby providing medical care to injured bikers, as non-injured bikers tried to assist."

TVF&R said there were at least two SUVs that were also involved in the crash.

A club insider, who didn’t want to be identified, said the bikers were in town from all over the Northwest to celebrate an annual birthday celebration of the club. She said that a motorcycle accident like the one that happened Friday is unheard of.

“Normally it’s one motorcycle, maybe two,” she said. “To see the scale of 20 to 30 bikes that are riding together have an accident of that magnitude – I’ve never seen before.”

She said she grew up around these bikers and said despite perceptions, they’re cautious.

“I know some people say they must be up to no good: They were racing or doing something. But anyone who’s familiar with Harley-riding knows you don’t race a Harley, you don’t do tricks on your Harley. You just ride,” she said.

Members of the club declined to be interviewed for this story. They said they are focusing on taking care of their brothers.



Date: September 18, 2009
Location: I-5, milepost 282, south of Wilsonville
Names: Herbert Sinclair, David Bowyer, Juan Ramon Mata, Christian J. Gankema, Gary Pawson



(Photo: Oregon State Police)

Oregon State Police have identified three more victims in a multi-vehicle motorcycle crash. Previously identified were two riders who were critically injured, Herbert Sinclair, 48, of Heyburn, Idaho, and David Bowyer, 44, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. The three previously unidentified motorcyclists are Juan Ramon Mata, 60, Christian J. Gankema, 40, and Gary Pawson, 38, all from Idaho.

As of September 19, the two most seriously injured were still hospitalized. Sinclair is listed in good condition at Oregon Health & Science University Hospital. Bowyer is listed in serious condition at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center. Both had been in critical condition immediately following the crash.

According to Salem-News.com, 10 riders from Brother Speed Motorcycle Club were injured in the accident, which occurred Friday, September 18, south of Wilsonville on I-5. At approximately 2:45 PM, as the motorcycle riders drove north in the left inside lane, traffic in front of them stopped. KVAL.com reports that a witness observed the bikers riding behind an SUV, which suddenly applied its brakes, causing what the witness termed a “domino effect.” Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue said at least two SUVs were involved in the crash.

State police Lieutenant Gregg Hastings described the incident: "The first two motorcycles maneuvered to avoid a collision with the stopped vehicle, but the rest of the motorcycles could not react in time and crashed into the vehicle in front of their group and into each other."

Eight of the injured motorcyclists were transported to hospitals by ground ambulance with shoulder and hip injuries and broken bones, while two others were shuttled to Portland hospitals by Life Flight. Northbound lanes on the interstate were closed for about two hours, but all lanes were open by approximately 5:40 PM.

Brother Speed Motorcycle Club’s website says the Portland chapter was chartered in 1970, to promote “brotherhood, respect, riding fast and building Choppers.” The group is known for more than fast riding; they participate in charity work, including the annual Shriner’s Toy Run. The club has three chapters in Oregon.

Tragedy is not new for the “Black and Gold," but an accident of this magnitude is beyond anything they’ve experienced. “I’ve never seen [this] before,” said one shocked club insider, who added that, contrary to public perception, these are careful, “cautious” riders. Although there are disputes as to the accuracy of how many accidents involve motorcyclists, and for that matter how many are caused by them, riders often take special courses to not only ride safer themselves, but to watch out for other motorists on the road.

One thing is certain: this is a terrible tragedy. At this point, a lack of specifics prevents any judgment on exactly what happened or who may have been involved.

Just Something I Made

Oh I wish that were true.

I discovered this wonderful website by Cathe Holden (click on title to visit). She has wonderful ideas and a whole slew of freebies.

My new TWITTER BUTTON ( to the right) was available at her site. LINK.

I also picked up the "older posts" sign at the bottom of my page from her. LINK.

She also has lots of goodies, and you can spend quite some time exploring her site. Be sure to visit.

The Perfect Fabric!

I LOVE THIS FABRIC!!!!!

I know I keep swearing off fabric buying, but I was looking for lining on Fashion Fabric Club and . . . found this in the $4 a yard bin. With 15% off!! My order has winged its way to whereever, and I hope to get this back very soon.

Fun trench coat, here I come!

Used Curtains

The photo on the left is of the curtains that used to be in my sewing room. I purchased the fabric at Sanderson & Sons in London in 1991. I didn't make anything with it for 10 years!!!!!!! But it was perfect for my sewing room.
But things change. I decided to use the lace curtains that had been in my grandmother's bedroom for my sewing room. I like the diffused light and the pattern. So what can you do with used curtains? Stay tuned!