12 DIY Christmas Ornaments | Roundup

I've always loved the Christmas season and ever since I've had a place of my own I've loved decorating for the season in just the way I want. I've even created a little collection of trees in all different colors so that I can create a theme for each tree. (obsessive? perhaps. But so much fun. :) This year I've been crazy busy with work and parties so I only put up the white one (instagrammed here) and I went with a red and silver theme. I likely won't get around to making any DIY ornaments this year but it is nice to dream so I've put together a little roundup for your inspiration. Happy crafting!

Twelve DIY Christmas Ornaments

1.  Bell Jar Ornaments from My So Called Crafty Life

2. Gold Glitter Ornaments from The Beauty Dojo

3. Donut Ornament from Studio DIY

4. Felt Pinecone from BHG

5. Origami Ball Garland from Sew DIY

6. Origami Diamond Ornaments from How About Orange

7. Retro Fabric Christmas Light Ornaments from Kojo Designs

8. Upcycled Christmas Wreath Ornament from Creative Green Living

9. Beaded Tassel Ornament from Sew DIY

10. Narwhal Ornament from Grainline Studio
Check out their owl ornament too. So cute and you get to sew!

11. Pom Pom Ornaments from North Story

12. Pipe Cleaner Ornaments from Martha Stewart
I'd love to make this for my white or silver tree. They look so easy and I love the simple design.

For more holiday DIY inspiration, check out my Holiday Crafting board on Pinterest.

DIY Roundup – Holiday Party Dresses

Party dresses should be a little more than your average everyday dress. And when it comes to holiday party dresses, well then it’s time it step it up even more. Add some sparkle. Go for a dramatic silhouette. A party or special occasion is the perfect excuse to make yourself something new (even if it means you have to stay up all night to get done before the big event ;). Here are a few of the patterns I’d like to try. Remember the fabric is going to do half the job, so go for something luxurious, beautiful and maybe even a little dramatic.

10 Holiday Party Dress Sewing Patterns

1. Georgia Dress by By Hand London
I love the simple, sexy silhouette of this dress. Just the right kind of pattern to show off a fun fabric. 

2. Vogue V1208
I own this pattern and just need to find the right fabric. The dress is cut on the bias so the fabric has to be 60 inches wide making it a little more tricky to find. I love the one sided shoulder detail. 

3. Leotie Midi Dress by Named Clothing
I love the contrast shoulder panels on this. They'd look great with a sheer fabric in the panels.

4. Long Sleeve Dress 11/2015 #113 by Burdastyle
The long sleeves balance out the bodycon silhouette of the dress. Perfect for a holiday soiree.

5. Simplicity 1105
I own this pattern too but have yet to try it. The back bow and swing shape are super fun. The perfect silhouette for attending a large meal. ;)

6. Ailakki Jumpsuit by Named Patterns
Made up in black silk or something equally swanky, this jumpsuit with a sexy cut out detail will make you the belle of the hipster ball.

7. Vogue V1471
Go classic with this fitted lace dress with long sleeves for extra coverage.

8. Yo Yo Dress by Papercut
The slim silhouette and front zipper make this one a show stopper.

9. Belladone Dress by Deer and Doe
I love the cut out back detail of this dress. Made in a shiny brocade, it's party ready.

10. McCall's M7083
I love the sheer gathered sleeves on this classic silhouette. Very easy to wear and fancy too.

In case these ten are not enough, here are a few honorable mentions:

Phoebe by Colette Patterns (on sale until Dec 23!)

Dani Dolman and Paris Dress by Style Arc

Scalloped Dress 12/2015 #120B by Burdastyle

Ultimate Shift Dress by Sew Over It (This basic shape would look amazing in sequins.)

Are you making any party dresses this year? What pattern and fabric are you using?

10 Activewear Sewing Patterns – DIY Roundup

10 Activewear Sewing Patterns – DIY Roundup

I try to work out a few times a week but I haven't sewn any activewear yet (unless you count this Linden sweatshirt which I do wear to the gym on occasion). Along with a little light cardio and some at-home pilates, I really enjoy lifting weights because it’s not too boring and I feel like I can actually see the results (yay muscles!). The hardest thing for me is getting started. I’d just rather be sewing. Maybe if I had more me-made activewear I’d get myself to the gym more often? Maybe. :) When I’m ready to add to my me-made activewear though, you can safely bet I’ll be checking out these patterns.