mylittlesister

quiet book

2011-03-28T11:19:00.002-06:00

For years I have wanted to make a quiet book for the girls. This last Christmas, a friend & I decided to go for it... I must say it was much more time consuming & detail work then I had initially thought.

We got some direction here. Then adapted the pages fit for a garden theme... Showing the garden in all four lovely seasons that we have here in Utah. The girls have plenty to do with braiding the gardeners hair, feeding birds, counting carrots, arranging the flower garden, a zippered bee hive, fall apple picking, building a snowman in winter, a pretend mailbox to stick love letters in and finally tic tac toe.

It was a special little christmas gift... to my girls, love mama.

Fresh Bedding

2011-03-11T12:13:00.007-07:00

I've been having so much fun sewing & changing out pillows all around the house. These are just a few photos to share... fabric prints come from Anna Maria Horners Home Dec line.

I wanted to post these quick photos... This is my 7 yr. old daughter, Mia's newly put together bedroom. I think it's young and fun but still mature enough to last her through the years. I had a blast with all these prints! For the quilt - I was excited for stripes - alternating the prints with white cotton. I wanted to frill it up a little, so I added the ruffle border.

The pillows... Mia is really into butterflies and loves that the first print has a butterfly that goes with her pretty framed butterflies from Brazil hanging up above her bed.

Ordered bedskirt - handmade by Jennifer & the metal shelves from CB2. The little "cozy cubes" on the shelves were made using the instructions in Anna Maria Horner's "Seams to Me" book... Mia loves these for all her little things to have their place. The sheep skin rug came from IKEA and is the softest touch to her little feet each morning when she climbs out of bed.

Maui Wedding

2011-01-09T13:26:00.009-07:00

Another FLOWER GIRL DRESS!

This is the darling Isabella (on the RIGHT). She was the flower girl in her Aunt Stacie's very special celebration. This dreamy wedding took place on the beach in Maui. Stacie requested this simple linen dress with trim to match her wedding colors. The men were in simple linen pants and bare feet. Don't you just love the look?!

This wedding looks absolutely breath taking!

Utah Wedding

2010-11-03T18:17:00.021-06:00

This here, is my lil family.

And Yes, that is me, on my knees second from left. :)

This was in fact, my lil sister Sara's wedding! She is so beautiful inside and out. Kevin is her man and we are thrilled that the two of them found each other. The wedding was a family affair and I like to call it our handmade wedding...

Here are the girls behind it all!

{ from left, sisters - Lisa, Dina, Sara, Momma and myself }

Lets start with her wedding gown... handmade by Momma.

She's so talented - has made all four or her daughters wedding dresses (At our plea of course). We promised her we would one day have a lil fashion show & model all of them next to one another. I was married already 11 years ago (wow, 11 years) - so it will be fun to see the style changes. I'll make sure to post some pics when we do!

Brides hair flowers, earrings & bracelet... handmade by the bride herself.

Orange dresses & accessories for these girls... handmade by myself.

I jumped at the chance to make my girls some new dresses. Sara had a beautiful September wedding and chose shades of grey (adults), shades of orange (children), and tiny pops of red. Their dresses were casual, a lil clashy, and a lot of fun!

Flowers... made by Mother Nature, assembled by sisters - Lisa, Dina & myself.

My sisters and I had a lot of fun pretending to be florists for a day! We made 10 large centerpieces - similar to this one pictured, 6 small centerpieces, 8 wall sconces, 8 corsages, 8 boutonnieres, the works. We had fun layering the shades of oranges, reds, yellows, and placing chunks of fresh moss, a couple succulents, and river rocks at the base.

This was a fun idea rather then a sign in book, each guest picked a handmade tag from the glass and wrote their own personalized note offering their best wishes and words of wisdom to the newly weds. Then hung their tag from a branch on the twig tree beside the table.

Hanging fabric banners... handmade by Momma.

(their was another on the mantel that said L O V E )

Bow tie for Drake... handmade by sister - Lisa.

Maryland Wedding

2010-11-03T11:40:00.019-06:00

Six Leaf Green linen dresses for the girls and Oatmeal linen suits for the boys. I adore Sonia's choices for the little ones in her wedding. And what better than clean classic linen for an outdoor wedding!

Thank you Sonia for the photos.

The lil dresses were a lot of fun to make... I really was thrilled when they were complete and all lined up together. I'm glad I could be a small part of your so very special day!

I wish you a long & happy life together!

xx Maria

summer dresses for the girls

2010-08-04T16:16:00.009-06:00

California Wedding

2010-06-17T22:14:00.014-06:00

These little darlins are Jade & Sienna. They were a big part in their Aunts very special occasion this past summer. I created these dresses based off of their mothers specifications. All were very pleased with just how simple and sweet they turned out.

(Elicia with daughters - Jade & Sienna)

And... Yes, It's that wonderful time again... Wedding Season!

I have the pleasure of creating more dresses for all of the littlest beauties that help make up these fabulous wedding parties... and it's so much fun!

Currently, I am working on a group of 6 leaf green linen dresses, all in different styles, appropriate for ages ranging from 12 months - 11 years for a wedding in Maryland. Stay posted for photos of this and other upcoming weddings taking place this summer.

2010-05-18T16:11:00.006-06:00

everything lovely

This made me smile.

Good is all around us... some days we just have to look.

::: NEW ::: summer SALE dress

2010-04-10T23:44:00.006-06:00

I thought it was time once again for another great buy... and who doesn't love a good deal! Introducing the summer SALE dress. This dress is very sweet with detailed shirring at the neck and sleeves. Finished with a clean rolled hem and a white cotton sash. Now available for a limited time...

Custom size (Please specify at checkout)

6-12 mo, 12-24 mo, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7

little sister

2010-03-25T23:16:00.012-06:00

This lil darlins name is Anika, from Texas. This is her special day. She's celebrating the big number 2 in her "little sister" amelia dress.

so cute.

thanks for sending pictures Radhika!

green day dress

2010-03-22T17:59:00.005-06:00

Introducing the green day dress. This everyday dress is made with a lightweight seersucker cotton in a sage green with stripes that compliment. Bodice is gathered with elastic. Three vintage turquoise buttons add detail to the sleeves and bodice. It's comfortable and washes well. All seams professionally finished.

Custom size (Please specify at checkout)
6-12 mo, 12-18 mo, 18-24mo, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T

If you would like a larger size - just send me a note.

little sisters

2010-02-19T12:57:00.018-07:00

I had to post about these darling "little sisters"... Ellie and Mia. They belong to a friend of mine from growing up... Mimi. I adore my friends that I grew up with! We knew each-other before we really even knew ourselves. You know, those silly little things as a child that made each of us unique/one of a kind. Those things now, have a lot to do with the people we are and have yet to become.

I remember with one childhood friend, at the age of 8. Inviting her to my home to play fabric store. I had boxes of my mothers fabric all laid out for her to choose from. She would bring her selections up to the cut counter and I would measure, take note, and have her follow me over to the checkout where I had an adding machine and monopoly money set up. The fabric store took over my bedroom for a few weeks until my mother wanted her fabric back. You could say, I took a liking to fabric at a young age. I hope as a mother, I can take note of these unique interests I see developing in my own children. The things that make each one of them so unique/one of a kind and help them develop along the way.

Okay, back to these lil darlins. They are wearing some handmade love from the shop. Did you notice???

Baby Mia has a smock with some fun designer prints that match Ellies skirt and both have the perfect hair for a linen flower clip. I adore making matching outfits for sister this sweet!

Oh what a lucky mom you are Mimi...

i heart valentines day

2010-02-14T16:18:00.014-07:00

I LOVE this holiday... the crafting, the little gift giving, and fun treats.

I found some handmade love for the little girls here. I have a "treasure hunt of love" planned for around the house with clues that will lead them to their final valentine treasure. Attached to each clue I've included a heart with one of their names on the front (Each child will have their name on several hearts around the house). On the back of their heart I wrote a little note praising a character quality of that child.

"Liv... I love your cheerfulness in the morning"

"Mia... you have such a kind heart when you help your sisters"

"Kaia... I love when you choose joy and cary a smile"

I think Valentines Day is yet another ocassion to show all our love and appreciation for one another. Looking for some more inspiration go here.

Hope you all have a very special Valentine's Day!

little sister

2010-02-12T15:04:00.004-07:00

I was so happy to receive this picture. This lil darlin is from Michigan. She wore her white linen dress for her baptism. Her mother also found matching shoes on etsy. The best part about making things and sending them off is seeing the pictures their wonderful moms send... thank you Cara!

tote giveaway - ended

2010-01-21T13:54:00.017-07:00

It's a giveaway. Why? Because it's fun to give things away and it's even more fun to WIN! This giveaway is for a custom tote. It's the perfect size for each and every little one. And an ideal birthday party gift for a little friend. Tote around coloring books, games, snacks, toys, etc... it's personal.

Canvas tote personalized with an abundance of designer cotton prints. Complimented with a vintage button accent and coordinating tie closure. Available for a girl or boy (An example of the girl option is pictured). Cotton prints may vary on each bag.

To enter this giveaway, simply leave a comment on this post.

The giveaway is open to ALL readers near and far.

The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced on Monday, Feb. 8th.

Good luck to everyone!

xo Maria

*******************************************************************

our lucky tote winner is comment #6 - Kheysia!

*******************************************************************

Create

2010-01-11T21:24:00.003-07:00

a little inspiration... hope you enjoy.

felted wool wreath

2009-12-23T23:17:00.007-07:00

I came across this wreath today and cannot stop thinking about it. Pickles has offered a lovely tutorial for those who would like to make one of their own. You can find felted wool balls here for a reasonable price. I have 2 large mirrors perched on a shelf on my landing going down the stairs. I'm thinking of one wreath for the front of each mirror...

also could not resist these deer stamps found here and here.

They look similar to the deer wandering around my home.

Now showing at Patina through December

2009-12-02T17:44:00.031-07:00

Patina is a darling new shop in Pleasant Grove.

They have an artist rotation. Featuring around 10 new artists each week. From week to week the shop is completely transformed with all new... HANDMADE. I popped in today and was drawn right to a few new handmade treasures for myself. The space is fun and inspiring. It is definitely a must see!

212 South Main St.

Pleasant Grove, UT

Open:

Wednesday - Saturday

11am - 7pm

I've created a few new items specific for Patina.

They will be featured through the month of December, including...

::: linen tea towels with vintage hand embroidery :::

::: mom & me aprons with vintage hand embroidery :::

::: felted wool flower hair clips, pins, & ornaments :::

: children aprons made with a handful of fun designer cotton prints :

Sorry, I had no time to photograph...

You may just have to pop in and see for yourself. :)

xo Maria

giveaway! - ended

2009-12-01T10:54:00.014-07:00

We are doing another "little sister" giveaway! Go here and create a link to win your own custom made linen evelyn smock. This pullover smock is beautiful on and easily layered. Made from 100% linen in a natural oatmeal. Upstages all others in simplicity and versatility. My little Liv (3 1/2) is wearing hers to school today layered over a pair of jeans. It's darling, wears well and is made to last.

ENDED

Our lucky winner is Jennifer from the MilewskiFamily.

Congratulations.

holiday gift wrapping

2009-11-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

This holiday season I encourage us all to get creative with our gift wrapping. Lets use what we have laying around. RECYCLE. Think old vintage music paper, children's book pages, cereal boxes, magazines, newspapers, cardboard, note cards, string, yarn, packaging material, coffee filters, wall paper, fabric, an old scarf, etc. We have so much right at our fingertips... and the end result will be something much more thoughtful and unique!

Here are some more ideas...

::: place your gift note in one of these recycled vintage post card wallets :::

::: make gift bows from old magazines :::

Are you giving your usual basket of goodies?

Why not make one of these recyled magazine or newspaper baskets to fill. The basket will be a cool conversation piece and even be treasured later.

::: Notice: I just added the comment feature on this blog... hence, 0 comments. :) Feel free to comment if you like this post and would like to hear more of these simple ideas with creative tutorials. I'm also considering posting my own sewing patterns/online tutorials, even starting some "little sister" handmade giveaways! Feedback/comments are always nice. :::

giveaway today! - ended

2009-11-23T10:23:00.010-07:00

Simply leave a comment here for a chance to win your own personalized tote just in time for christmas!

It will be personalized with your name of choice and customized with a handful of designer cotton prints. Everyone likes things that are personalized, unique, and custom...so this is such a fun giveaway!

::: Congratulations to our winner - Michelle Nyenhuis from Canada! :::

Energized...

2009-11-21T23:10:00.008-07:00

I suddenly have an extra burst of energy... ENERGY to CREATE!

Together the girls and I are working on Christmas. We've just completed orders for a bundle of children's aprons and personalized totes. (Well, Okay, really it's just me... I like to think they help though.) Now I'm preparing for a christmas sale the first weekend in December. Today I started linen tea towels for the sale. It's been fun mixing new modern prints with vintage embroidery and crocheted pieces. I also started another handful of aprons. I'll try to post some pictures here soon. I'm looking forward to the holiday weekend ahead... and hope you all have a wonderful thanksgiving!

green goddess dress

New prints for Fall

2009-09-29T17:42:00.025-06:00

I fell in love with these prints as soon as I saw them... They come from Anna Maria Horners Good Folks line. Once the first two skirts came together. They looked so cute... I had to make a third. Baby Kaia got the best end of the deal. A new smock and skirt in the same day!

Things have been busy lately with these three little girls, sewing, life and all. The smiles are what make it so fun... Life is good. Thank you little girls & a big THANK YOU to all my happy customers. I love getting your notes and hearing your feedback from your purchases!

xo Maria

little sisters

2009-08-27T11:03:00.018-06:00

I recently was contacted to make coordinating dresses for these 4 darling sisters. Their mother, Kelly wanted them rushed in-time for their family pictures. It was so much fun because she insisted on having matching little headbands & hairclips also.

I'm very pleased with how they all turned out... And they couldn't be on cuter little girls!

All the pictures are courtesy of Nicole at Pixiedust Photography. She does an amazing job capturing those magical moments along with each little ones personality. I'm hoping she will soon do my little family. Thank you Kelly & Nicole!

This was one of my favorites...

back to school...

2009-08-03T14:32:00.016-06:00

Is it already that time???

I just listed a few new items to kick off all our little ones going back to school...

pretty please dress

a very fun splash of purple

dahlia smock

sure to delight in this happy designer print

my favorite tote

personalized with your own name and a handful of fun designer cotton prints

pop garden smock

so cute alone or layered over a pair of chocolate brown ruffle pants

All the little dresses in the shop are perfect for layering over a pair of rolled up jeans and off to school you go!

raspberry picking time...

2009-07-14T11:19:00.006-06:00

The girlies and I have been in the backyard picking raspberries galore. It's been so fun this year to finally have a large abundance to eat like popcorn. All three girls are happy to get in on the action. Liv takes the prize though. She named herself the "raspberry monster". She fills her hands so full she has to tilt her head back with her mouth wide open to fit them all in... raspberry monster.

Etsy Front Pagers...

2009-06-29T20:24:00.017-06:00

The all day dress and evelyn smock made it all the way to the Etsy front page this week. Wahoo! I love these beautiful treasuries that are so wonderfully handpicked.

summer SALE dress

2009-06-15T21:27:00.017-06:00

I thought it was time for a great buy... and who doesn't love a good deal! I created this summer SALE dress. This dress is so sweet with detailed shirring at the neck and sleeves. Finished with a clean rolled hem. Now available for a limited time...

Custom size (Please specify at checkout)

6-12 mo, 12-24 mo, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7

It's especially cute in the little baby sizes. Unfortunately, my baby who is 12 months, doesn't hold still for a photo. So, I have it pictured on Mia who is 5. She loves to take pictures with me. Thanks Mia.

ruffle pants & capris

2009-06-14T23:10:00.009-06:00

I finally have some pants in the shop to wear alone or layer under the dresses. These are the cutest. My little girls beg to wear them... Mia loves the ruffles. She likes that they are loose and move a little when she walks.

Liv loves the capris.. she calls them her "cozy pants". These are both great patterns and all sizes fit well. I'm open to make them in any fabric you fancy from the shop. Thanks for checking in! Maria

simple gifts

2009-05-27T17:05:00.017-06:00

It has been such a delight to be out in the warm sun working in the garden the last two weeks. I love the simple gifts the garden can offer.

This year we'll have lettuce, strawberries, raspberries, herbs, squash, and a variety of tomatoes. I can't wait. The little girls really enjoy helping and are learning to appreciate the bounty of fresh food. Growing up my Dad bragged about his 10' tall tomato plants. I remember as a young girl spending hours in the raspberry patch. Picking one raspberry at a time... testing my self control not to eat them all before I got in the house. If I made it in with some, I had the pleasure of eating them in a bowl of cream. Yum!

Do any of you have gardens you pleasure... or memories of a garden from your childhood?

the perfect gift... Made 2 Match

2009-05-27T15:44:00.020-06:00

What little girl wouldn't love to have a matching linen smock for her favorite doll. Made 2 Match... This is the perfect gift! Now available. Handmade by Christine at dollcloset from the same 100% linen as my little sister childs size. So cute... I am so excited about these!

chocolate doll smock

leaf green doll smock

New

2009-05-16T20:41:00.000-06:00

{ daylight headband }

{ daylight dress }

Introducing the new daylight dress & headband. I came across some vintage hand embroidered & crocheted pieces. They spoke to me. Each one has a story. I envisioned all the different women that put their hearts into all the handwork. The detail and time that went into these pieces is impressive. The colors are vibrant and fun. I wanted to repurpose them into something functional and beautiful again. The Daylight apron dress is simply sweet. The cotton design allows it to hold up and wash well. Watch for more vintage handwork to come...

* Each embroidered & crocheted piece is unique. I unfortunately will not be able to reproduce them. So quantity is limited.

natures treasures

2009-05-13T00:06:00.003-06:00

Just had to post the latest little treasure we found in the backyard today. A momma robins nest with 4 baby eggs nestled tightly inside. Aren't they beautiful! Can't wait to see what comes....

2 weeks later... Okay, so here is the update on the 4 little robins. They are crowded in that little nest, nice & cozy. I have to admit after they hatched they weren't so cute. Pink, slimy, no feathers. They are getting better looking with age. It's such a joy to observe all the elements of nature. amazing.

my favorite...

2009-05-07T09:03:00.001-06:00

The evelyn smock takes the prize! This is above all my favorite piece from the shop. It upstages all others in simplicity & versatility. It so simple and layers well... And I'm in love with the new leaf green!

leaf green

natural

chocolate

Easter

2009-05-01T12:18:00.000-06:00

{ The "little girlies" in their "easter pretties" }

I saw this bright colorful fabric. It screamed "SPRING" to me.

This was a fun little project that I had finished before Christmas and was holding out for Easter. I was excited to finally see them on...

The shop is OPEN.

2009-04-19T20:54:00.000-06:00

So, I just opened my shop... I've already shipped dresses to New York, Germany, and Switzerland - to name a few. This is so much fun! I love sewing these sweet little dresses. My joy is so full to think of them shipping off to your loved little girls that will soon be frolicking through the meadows in their new linen frocks.

I've enjoyed the conversations with you buyers and the adorable pictures you've sent me of your little girls. Thank you and keep it up! I can't wait to see what lies ahead for "little sister".

Some may know I am a stay at home mother of three beautiful little girls. They bring me so much joy. It's so fun to dream up little dresses for them to dance around in on those warm sunny days. Lucky for me, they, at their young age, adore them and are happy to wear what I dream up.

I snapped some pics the other day as they were dancing around in the backyard. I was laughing so hard at Liv.... and these still make me smile. I thought I would share... here's Liv (2 1/2) & Mia (5).