How to turn your old camisole into a cute baby romper

This cotton camisole totally served its purpose as my maternity top (at least 3 days out of the week) for 9 months. And even though it's not actually a true maternity piece (it's from Urban Outfitters) I just didn't want to continue to wear anything (after the fact) that would remind me of my VERY large self during that time. I did really love the crochet inset though (and saw some beautiful crochet detailed pieces at the beach the other day) so I wanted to somehow salvage this tank.

I didn't feel like making a pattern and wanted to whip this piece out during her nap time. So I grabbed a nice fitting tank as a guide and altered the inset into a surplice that would fit her tiny frame. I restrung the twill tape (to tie at the side) and carefully hand stitched the new crochet bodice at the center front and side seam only. I hate it when a surplice is totally top stitched down, this way it has a much prettier drape.

The original tank had a cute, top stitched band detail at the bodice's center back. I cut it to be the new baby rompers back waist seam. I've had to put a lot of my sewing supplies (and my JUKI *sob*) into storage due to our speedy relocation. At the last minute, I realised that I didn't have my usual 1" elastic that I always like to use. I ended up using a soft, lacy 1/4" elastic (for lingerie) which caused it to have a much looser, drop-waisted fit. Isaac said it reminded him of the 20's (which made me happy) I love it when you improvise and come out with something even better.
I saved a scrape of the twill tape (from the bodice front) to make a little loop for the center back (it makes the romper adjustable) I just tie the crochet straps into a little slip knot at the back. I used the same short pattern that I drafted for our Summer Shades Playsuit, and now Devon's got a cute little romper to show off at the beach tomorrow:)

How to revamp a totebag

Yesterday, I unearthed this canvas tote. I'm not really sure how it came to live in the depths of my closet, but it's got great bones (love the handles) and is constructed very well. The only thing I didn't like about it was the screened logo. Since it didn't have any pockets on the inside, I decided a pocket on the outside would be the perfect way to add function and cover the unwanted logo. I used a piece of microfiber twill and cut it into a 9x6.5" rectangle. This includes 1/4" seam allowances. I then cut two more rectangles that each measured 5x1 3/4, to use as a tunnel (which makes the pocket adjustable) This includes a 1/2" seam allowance at center front and 1/4" seam allowances on the sides.
I made a spaghetti strap (out of a scrap of my navy and cream thermal knit) added a chunky carved oak toggle, and the end result... a great little functional pocket, with loads of character! Now Devon has a cute pool bag that goes perfectly with her swimsuit :)