Consew 206-RB2

Well I finally did it. I sold my singer 281 industrial machine for an upgrade. I have been looking at walking foot sewing machines for the past month. These machines sew the thickest leather and most car upholstery shops use them. You can sew everything except very light fabric, and knits.

What made me upgrade? I have been looking for a nice suede hand bag for the last 2 years. The ones I like were 800 up, and nothing fancy about them. So this year I started looking for my bag and buddy husband said, I don't see why you don't make a suede bag you make everything else. And if you follow my blog you know he's always right.

I found a brand new Tac-sew walking foot machine online for 798, I was going to purchase the Tacsew but after doing some research, I found that they have quite a few issues even the new ones. I was able to find a used Consew machine for 899 locally. Of course you know I didn't want to pay that for a used machine. Then I thought "Would you rather have a used Mercedes Benz in excellent shape? Or a Brand New Honda".

I opted for the Benz. She is beautiful. In addition to the machine, I purchased the servo motor which is so quiet that you don't know that the machine is on. You can dial the speed to go as slow as you want or as fast as you want. I ended up paying a little more than 1,100 I am sure I am going to love driving my used Mercedes.  

McCalls 5801 For the love of Chambray,

I made this dress back in 2013, (different fabric) even wrote a pattern review. I wanted to make, the top below (Simplicity 8137).

I am digging relentlessly  in my stash because I knew I had this chambray purchased at Walmart in Goldsboro NC
 (I remember because our daughter was stationed there and Walmart was one of the few places to buy fabric. I paid 1.00 per yard but it was in 3 pieces.) I knew when I purchased the fabric that I was going to make this dress. BUT I FORGOT I MADE IT!

Anyway,  as is was digging I found this dress (McCalls5801) instead of the chambray pieces. I had completed the dress except for adding the snaps on the front closure. I was a little disappointed that I had used the chambray but thrilled that I had a new garment. What a find.

Simplicity 8137

Long story short I finished the dress, but still wanted some chambray to make this top. I did find some at JoAnne, paid a little more than 1.00 per yd but I am ok with it.