Friday, June 5, 2009

Orchid Longies




Ok, so I might have a bit of pride over these - but really, aren't they the most adorable longies you've ever seen? And while these are longies, intended to be used over a cloth diaper, they would also make a great baby gift for a baby girl.



It was a little tough to lay the patterns out just right, but I think the end product is nice. I hee-hawed over how to finish the hemlines as well...and as I was contemplating putting a rolled hem on, my daughter came over and I noticed the lettuce edges on her shirt - ah hah! I set my machine to a tight satin stitch, stretched the wool as I sewn, and went over it a total of three times.

I have to give credit to my dear sweet mom, who knows how I love to sew wool into longies. When she saw two lady's shrugs that were 100% wool and for a pretty reasonable price, she purchased them for me. On the shoulder of each shrug were these pretty flowers. I was so delighted when she gave them to me. I almost hated to cut them up, but then again, I could envision the longies they would make. I am more than happy with how nice they turned out.


I was able to get 2 more pair of longies out of these shrugs, but they are plain, with no flowers. I have the materials on hand to needle felt, and since I've been wanting to do that, I think I'll give it a go. Since the red and burgundy are pretty girly colors, I'm thinking of felting hearts onto them...what do you think?

Blessings,
Hope

Monday, June 1, 2009

Longies



In regards to cloth diapers, wool has many uses. Longies are pants made traditionally from wool sweaters. Wool soakers are knitted or sewn from wool sweaters as well. A Wool Diaper Cover, or Wool Wrap as I like to call them, is made from either a sweater or wool interlock. When used with cloth diapers, wool makes an excellent 'waterproof' barrier. Wool can absorb up to 30% of it's weight in moisture while also 'repelling' the moisture. It is a property known as hygroscopic property.


When wool items are lanolinized, they have been soaked in a solution of water and lanolin. Lanolin is the natural oil or fat secreted by sheep's skin glands. Lanolin also has water-repellent properties. So when you add lanolin to a wool diaper cover, or longies, you have further ensured no moisture will escape the diaper beneath.



While wool soakers, covers, or longies can by made using only 80% wool, I prefer to use 100% wool articles. This ensures the wool items I make are of the best functioning quality.

Cloth Diaper users are already contributing greatly to the reduction of trash created in our world. When a family uses a recycled wool item for their child, they are increasing the trash reducing benefits since that wool item was already an unwanted clothing article.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Special Needs Items


Remember I was telling you about a few of the Custom Orders I've been working on? Well, they are completed - all but one, and that one has been put on hold since the little baby they are for decided to arrive a little early.

Just over a month ago, I was contacted by a sweet lady who was interested in cloth diapers for her older special needs child. It has been a pleasure working with "A" to complete this order. I am sure that "A" and her daughter will be delighted when their package arrives.

She chose some Pocket Diapers, Fitted Diapers, All In One diapers, Inserts, and a few covers as well. This will be a very nice way to start using cloth diapers for them.

While I was working on this order, my oldest son, Garrett, age 7, was curious as to why I was making such large diapers. I took the time to explain to him that God makes each one of us Special, and that He chose to make this young lady extra special, and that her body doesn't work the same as our body works. In the end, he decided that she was getting some "really pretty diapers". He even helped me package the diapers today.

Blessings,
Hope

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Custom Made Wool Wraps


Recently, I was contacted by a lady who wanted to place a custom order for some wool wraps - or diaper covers. I forwarded her some photos, and she chose the wool to be used. I am very pleased with the finished product.

Little Moose Diapers Recycled Wool Wraps are made from 100% wool items. Two layers of felted, recycled wool is used to make this diaper cover bullet proof. Lastin is sewn into the legs and across the back, fully enclosed so no elastic touches your little one's skin directly. Aplix 800 is used for closure, yielding an adjustable fit.

Why wool? Wool can absorb up to 30% of it's weight in moisture. Once lanolin has been added, the wool becomes even more 'waterproof'. Lanolin also helps soften the feel of the wool. I have been amazed at the softened feel wool takes on. Contrary to what some people will tell you, wool is very breathable, allowing air to circulate in and out of the diaper and cover, providing a healthier environment for your baby's bum.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Caption Me This

Comfort Joy Designs is hosting a Baby Shower game - Caption me This! What a great way to receive some gifts.

One winner will receive three - yes, THREE prizes:
Win Cozy Care Cape from Spa Time Baby!
Win 3 - 30 count packs from Boogie Wipes!
Win Natural Baby Starter Kit from Seventh Generation!

Happy Playing!!!

Hope