Here's another little bishop dress I made for Father's Day pictures this year. (OK you caught me, it was supposed to be her going home outfit, but it didn't get finished in time - which was just as well, it would have been huge!)

I got this pattern out of Australian Smocking & Embroidery. I really enjoy that one - they have some great patterns & articles.

So here' s a poll... What kind of sewing machine do you use? Do you have more than one, and why?

I sew on a Bernina aurora 430. I think that Bernina's are great machines, and I loved that this one will do machine embroidery as well as regular sewing. The feed is just as good on fine batiste as it is on jeans. So - what's your machine of choice?

Bonnets... the newest project.

So lately I've been working on bonnets. Sounds strange doesn't it? But it's so hard to find really sweet and classic hats for little ones in the winter time. I don't need my 7 mo. old to be too funky quite yet (fine for many, just not my style!) So I designed this little bonnet in fleece for her.

I'm making it now in knit for newborns for a local midwife. The pattern is available for sale - just $6! Or you can buy one pre-made (choice of ribbon colors) for $8!

So that's what I'm working on now - what are you working on? Email me, and we'll get to posting different projects, tips etc.

Here's my other latest, I smocked Samantha's Christmas (Winter) dress. :) Here she is in it!

Tip #1: When working on constructing a Bishop, the bias neckband can be tough. Try running a row of basting through the pleating very near the edge, before attempting to baste on the neckband. It helps the pleats not shift, and stand up nicely!