SteamPunk Mixed Media Upcycle

This is my favorite type of project: fast, fun, and very forgiving. Start to finish, 3 hours!

I started with a beautiful Ann Taylor jacket that I picked up at the Goodwill for $10 and OESDs SteamPunk 12378 design collection.

The designs are primarily printed using Transfer Artist Paper, leaving only a small amount to embroider. Some designs include applique, which adds additional color and texture but executes quickly.

For additional dimension . . . add crystals! I used BERNINAs new CrystalWork Software, which debuted at BERNINA University last week. Coming soon to a BERNINA dealership near you!

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New Use for Undergrown Shorts

Anidea for upcycling a pair of denim shorts from Sharleen Odell, Educator at BERNINA Sewing Center Four Corners in Farmington, NM:

I recently recycled a pair of shorts that I undergrew (this is the opposite of outgrew). I lost weight, so I took a pair of my oldshorts and made a small purse to accommodate my cell phone, keys, and wallet. The front pocket turned into a cell phone carrier, and the small pocket was just the right size for my vehicle key. Before stitching the sides together, I did a little embroidery on the denim in front of the pocket.

I saved the waistband with the button and used it for the closure on the back of the bag. I added a placket on and made it look like a waistband opening on a pair of jeans. This pocket is just the right size for my wallet.

This is easy to carry when you go shopping. You could use the larger opening for a water bottle and carry a credit card or two in the front pocket with yourcell phone.

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Sheer Top by Nicole Smith for WeAllSew

Light and flowing like a summer breeze, this sheer top adds a touch of cool elegance when the weather gets hot. Casual enough for beachwear, yet stylish enough for an evening on the town, its an easy pick for a beautiful summer day.

Sheer Top by Nicole Smith

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BERNINA has a New Home on the Web!

BERNINA USA launched its new web site this week, featuring a fresh new look and more contemporary features. In addition to all the Products info you may need, the Whats New section will be of particular interest (and usefulness!) to regular users.

The New on Site page lists all new items added to the site in one place. Be sure to visit the Experience section, where youll find a wealth of information for project ideas, tips, videos, etc. All in all, there is a lot new to explore and discover on the new BERNINA.com site!

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Sew to Serve Children With Benjamin Smiles

Benjamin Smiles is dedicated to bringing smiles to children in need through donations of bright andcheerful handmade pillows. The organization was started by Benjamins mother Vicki, who dedicatedthe heartfeltservice project to her son Benjamin, remembering himfor his loving smile. Thousands of pillows are made and donated each year through Benjamin Smilesto children all over the country. Read more about how you can help at the official Benjamin Smiles website.

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A stencil some fabric scraps = A magic pillow

Dear Chicago House,

Remember that stencil I won and used to create a piece of art work for my office,

well I have been itching to have a go at stenciling some fabric ever since.

When I tore the disgusting drapes down from your windows when we first moved in, I had plans for selling them. But there were no takers ( surprise surprise!) so I salvaged all the lining and tossed the 1980's curtains.
Now this stash of white fabric has been quite useful. I have already used it to make some Word Art pillows and it was the perfect fabric to have a play around with my stencil.

I gave the fabric a good iron and taped in onto a large wooden board ( a piece of crappy old basement paneling) Stenciling onto fabric was a lot easier that working on paper as I suffered no edge bleed.

I worked with just a single color - just a regular acrylic craft paint. Once the paint was dry I gave the fabric another good iron to fix the paint. To be honest I don't know for certain how well this will stand the test of time but what I do know is if I ever get any acrylic art paint on my clothes it NEVER washes out.

I cut out two 19" squares and quickly ran up a pillow cover on my sewing machine.

Pillow magic and as Mr Chicago House said, diamonds are forever, I think he liked it!

Love from

Creative in Chicago

XX

Upcycled Pens from the UK

Dear Chicago House,

So one of our most popular posts, How to make polymer clay covered pens has been inspiring a couple of teens in the UK.

Look at what they have made!

Matt and Jamie were set a school project and tasked with setting up a company up-cycling everyday items and adding value.

I think they are onto a winner and there will be A+ on their report cards.

Well done lads!

love from

Creative in Chicago

XX