Retro Fun We use Janome machines exclusively here in the Sew4Home studios, and Janome America is one of our wonderful sponsors. As you may have seen and heard online, Janome just introduced a brand new, top-of-the-line sewing and embroidery machine. I was sworn to secrecy and have had to zip-my-lip for weeks, but now I can let loose with the news: I was one of the super-lucky people who got to try out this amazing new model before it even got into the hands of the dealers. (Yes, I feel very special and later you can ask for my autograph!!) I've put together a few of my initial reactions and have provided links to all the info online.
Retro Fun: Fancy Border Tea Towels
Retro Fun: Kitchen Curtains with Gingham Bows
Curtain panels are a perfect beginner project. They're fast, super simple, and you get a great sense of satisfaction when you hang them up and instantly transform your window from plain and boring to pretty and bright. Our Retro Fun curtains combine two great vintage fabrics from Barbara Jones' Simply Sweet collection plus the ultimate retro touch: red gingham bows. Gingham and polka dots and pretty flowers... it's such a happy combination, I feel like breaking into a few stanzas of Perry Como's 1951 classic Zing Zing Zoom Zoom . Who wants to sing along??
Retro Fun: Quilted Mitt Pot Holders
Retro Fun: Vintage Style Apron
Retro Fun: Reversible Breakfast Tablecloth
Retro Fun: Toddler's Laminated Project Apron
Retro Fun: Finding Retro Style Fabric
It's easier than ever to find retro-style fabric. These are fabrics reminiscent of the styles popular in the 1950s through the 1970s. The nostalgia for the time has created a wonderful resurgence of period-style apparel, furniture, appliances and home décor. In fact, you will have no trouble recreating an authentic looking period room just as if you stepped into Mister Peabody's WABAC machine and set the dial back 50 years (credit: The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show of the 1960s). Like many people, I've been loving the prop and set decoration in the AMC series Mad Men where the early 1960s are recreated so faithfully. If you lived through the era, you know the style instinctively; but retro style is popular with all ages for its uninhibited bright, zany color and fearless bold designs. This week, S4H kicks of a new series we call "Retro Fun" starting with a trip back to a 1950's kitchen, and a toddler's project apron. We'll move forward in retro years from there with additional projects to come.
