Do You Use a Dress Form?

I love Lifetime's TV show Project Runway. I don't have a lot of time for TV, but Project Runway is one of my little guilty pleasures, as well as dark chocolate!

Every week, I see the designers attaching pieces of fabric to dress forms before fitting their models. They make it look so easy!

In addition to creating handbags, I also like to design and sew outfits for myself. Fit is the critical difference between an outfit being a "WOW" and an "Oh, did you make that?" It's difficult to make adjustments while you're wearing the garment, so I've been thinking about buying a Dress Form to make my garment designing as easy as Project Runway. Well, luckily my design time won't be limited to one day or a specific challenge.

Overstock.com has a few dress forms on sale at very reasonable prices. I've also been to FabulousFit.com, but they are slightly priced out of my budget.

I'd love to hear from you. Does anyone use a dress form? Any tips? 

Great Gift Ideas Part 2

What's your gift giving look like this year? Has the economy changed your holiday budget?

Like many, we are cutting down a bit on our gift giving this year. My Christmas budget has me thinking more and looking harder for that special gift. Luckily, Etsy.com is making it easier!

I had so much fun yesterday, starting my Christmas list and looking for great items on Etsy, that I'm doing a Part 2 today.

Here are three more items that caught my eye. Beautiful to look at, special and unique....isn't that what makes a perfect gift?

This is Lucky in Love, a clear resin and real 4 leaf clover pendant necklace handmade by isewcute.

Who couldn't use a little extra luck? This necklace is beautiful and definitely gets the nod from my Irish heritage!

See it at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27997872

Have someone that is special on your list, but they have just about everything? Take a look at this unique Keepsake Journal.

Lots of details and beautiful embellishments went into this functional piece of art. Perfect for gathering dreams, memories and wishes. Go to http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30815977

I'm sitting at my desk writing this post in shorts from sunny Florida. Daytime highs are still in the 80s, but this fun and fuzzy hat have me longing for snow (well, almost!).

The colors are beautiful! Even if you live in the land of sunshine and orange juice, you may know someone battling blizzards in January and wouldn't they look so cute in this hat?!! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34401376

Looking forward to a thankful Thanksgiving Day! Thanks to family, friends and the wonderful supporters and fans of The Crafty Panda.