2017 Make Nine

I decided long ago to forgo resolutions, but I do make a list of things I’d like to accomplish for the year and give myself some grace if things don’t work out. 2016 was tough, and I was forced to focus on my health, so not much else happened. This year, I am setting new creative goals and am looking forward to learning and making new things.

In no particular order, things I hope to accomplish this year are:

  • Weaving– To start, I am hoping to be able to sign up for a weaving workshop at one of my local shops. I love seeing all the wall hangings, scarves, and various other makes from so many creative people, and I want to learn! Jon has agreed to build me a loom if I decide to pursue it after taking a course.
  • Bra Making– I have been following Madalynne for a few years now, and this is the year I am going to dive into bra making! I’ve seen various versions of Cloth Habit’s Watson Bra (pictured above) and many other designs, and I would love to attempt to make one sometime this year.
  • Calligraphy– Okay, so most people don’t know this, but I cheat. I use my Silhouette Cameo or Jon for any crafts that require typography of any kind. Jon is somewhat of a Renaissance man, and the guy knows his art- painting, ceramics, typography, sketching, and so on. This year, we’re going to find out how strong our marriage is because he has agreed to teach me calligraphy!
  • Embroidery– Have you seen all the hand embroidery designs on Pinterest or Instagram? I love seeing the various styles and perspectives from some amazingly talented folks. Wild Boho has a stitch-along happening this year to encourage anyone who wants to embroider more throughout the year or for anyone who wants to dive in and learn. I have attempted embroidery in the past, but I am not very good, so this is a great push for me to practice.
  • Bag Making– I make small pouches and simple tote bags pretty regularly, but I would love to make something more complex. This Robert Kaufman Cargo Duffel Bag is a free pattern and would make a great weekender bag. We are planning a trip towards the end of the year, and how awesome would it be to have me-made luggage?
  • Raincoat– I made Lo’s winter coat earlier in December and learned about interlinings for warmth. This year, I want to make her a raincoat and learn more about sewing with laminates and oilcloth.
  • Quilts/WIPs– Confession: I have FIVE SEVEN quilts I started within the past couple of years that aren’t finished. One of them is a Swoon Sixteen Quilt (pictured above) consisting of various Halloween fabrics. I also have various garments that were never finished due to lack of zippers or buttons. I’m hoping to get a better handle on my unfinished projects this year.
  • Vintage Patterns– I have been given so many vintage patterns, but I’ve never sewn one! I would love to make myself this Simplicity 7633 or another vintage pattern this year. I have a pretty cotton blend I found at a local fabric shop that would be perfect, but I need the courage to cut into it. I should also add- I rarely muslin. Perhaps I should add that to my goals list?
  • Menswear– I hoped to make Jon a pair of Jutland or Jedidiah (pictured above) pants in 2016, but that never happened, so I am determined to make him slacks or jeans this year. I made him a few pairs of boxers last year, which he loved, and I would also like to make him a few more basics (such as tees, henleys, button-ups) this year.

Do you set resolutions or goals each new year? What are your goals for this year? Any tips, recommendations, or links for me?