blog | - Part 19

Glamper Renovation Part 4- Exterior Finished!

5 Comments / Glamper Renovation / carina

glamper4

It’s been so busy I haven’t had a chance to post the finished exterior of the glamper! And just in time too! I was watching the weather closely to paint the exterior and parts of the interior.

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The polka dots turned out to be a bit of a chore. At the end of the day, I’m glad I did it because it gives my glamper such a fun look. To get the polka dots I cut 5 inch circles out with a circle cutter with an 18mm blade. I then spaced them out 5 inches apart both vertically and horizontally. Because I was using a spray, I knew the circles wouldn’t come out “clean”. Once the paint was dry, I just figured that I was going to be able to use a stencil to outfit the edges with my white paint.

Because of all the crinkles on the glamper, this turned out to be an impossible plan. I ended up hand painting every single dot! Eek! Thankfully I got a little help (see photo below).

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I did a touch up coat of white on the top of the glamper and a tiny gray stripe between the top and bottom. It was two days of torment well worth it!

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Here’s a quick view of the other side of the glamper:

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I’ve also been working hard on the exterior and finally finished painting the bathroom, touch-ups, most of the hardware is in, the fridge installed, tv hardware installed, the cushions all sewn, and most of the curtains finished. I’m still a bit out before I can show you all of it. In fact, I have a hankering to decorate it for Christmas so the first shots of the interior you might see all “Christmas-ed up.”

If you haven’t seen the previous posts on the Glamper, here are some quick links for you:

Glamper Renovation Part 3
Glamper Renovation Part 2
Glamper Renovation Part 1

Carina

Glamper Renovation Part 4- Exterior Finished! Read More »

Evening Blooms Quilt Tutorial with Andy Knowlton

3 Comments / Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Tutorials / carina

Today I have a special treat for you! Andy Knowlton of
A Bright Corner created this beautiful quilt using my Evening Blooms fabric collection. To top it off, she has agreed to give you all a tutorial on how she made it. There is even a pdf download at the end (scroll to the bottom to download).

So without further ado, here is Andy:

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I love the timeless look of classic black and white and these fabrics don’t disappoint! This quilt is made entirely from half square triangles (HSTs) but don’t let that deter you! I have a fast and easy way to make a ton of HSTs in no time at all.
First I’ll show you how to make your HSTs then I’ll show you how to assemble one block. I’ll add a quilt layout diagram at the end and you’ll be on your way to finishing your own Evening Blooms quilt!
First of all, here’s what you’ll need:

1/4 yard of 7 various dark prints
1/4 yard of 5 various light prints
2 yards of white/background fabric
1/2 yard binding
3-1/2 yards backing fabric

From each of the prints (7 dark and 5 light) cut 3 squares that measure 8″. You’ll need 36 total.
From the white/background fabric cut 8 strips that are 8″ x width of fabric.
Subcut those strips into 36 @ 8″ squares

To create your half square triangles, pair up each print square with one white square. Match edges, keeping right sides together.

Sew around all four outer edges using a consistent 1/4″ seam.

Using your rotary cutter, cut diagonally through each block twice as shown in the photo.

Being careful not to stretch it, press each HST. I prefer to press the seam allowance toward the print. Trim the little tails off of each HST.
If you are consistent with your seam allowances and careful to not stretch the HSTs you should not need to square them up. If you find your HSTs to be varying in size, then square them each up to the same size (either 5.25″ or 5″ each).
Create all of your HSTs and then move on to the block layout.

Layout all of the HSTs you need for one block. Notice in the quilt layout diagram that not all blocks are the same. The dark and light prints are alternated for the main part of each block and the corner HSTs are different depending on where in the quilt the block will be located.

Sew together into rows using a 1/4″ seam.
Sew rows together, matching seams.

Your block is done!
Now use the layout diagram to make the next 8 blocks.
In the layout diagram I used just two prints – one dark and one light so you can clearly see the placement of each HST.
Evening Blooms layout diagram
You can find a printable version of this tutorial here Evening Blooms Quilt Tutorial

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Carina Gardner Exclusively for Deseret Book!

Family, Holiday Projects / carina

bracelets

I’m so excited to announce my Winter Collections for Deseret Book! Just in time for Christmas, DB has stocked a collection of inspirational bangles that I have designed! The sets come in Navy, Red, Black, and Gray. They each have a different engraved inspiration on the inside. You can find them online here:

Navy
Stand As a Witness
Believe
So Lucky to Have a Friend Like You
Cherish Life’s Little Moments

Black
Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful
Faith Makes Things Possible
Believe in Yourself
Live. Laugh.Love

Gray
Love Surrounds You
Enjoy the Ride
Reach for the Stars

Red
Be Wise, Be Kind, Be True
Choose Happiness
Live a Happy Life
Everything Happens for a Reason
And just in time for Christmas—New Christmas Dishware! I’m SO happy with how these turned out! Santa will certainly be getting his cookies on one of these beauties!

CG Dish Towels

CG Dessert Plates

CG Christmas Tray

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5112571_ChristmasTray_detail

Family_Rules_Plaque_detail And last but not least, I have a new darling line of Canvas Art! Lots of good stuff going on here!

Family Rules

We All Have Our Best Guides

Our Family

There is Always Something to be Thankful For

All Things are Possible

Don’t Try Too Hard

(The ones without links I was unable to find on their site).

Hope you have a chance to walk into a store to see these! The packaging is hard to miss!:).

Carina

Carina Gardner Exclusively for Deseret Book! Read More »

This and That

Giveaways, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

November is zipping by and I’m considering putting up my Christmas stuff this coming week. I know, I know. It’s a little early but I like to enjoy the season as long as I can! I’m also considering cutting out a bunch of these for all my nieces and nephews for Thanksgiving and letting Siri and Flissa pass them out.

If you have been watching my instagram feed then you know I have been working on my glamper all week. The polka dots were their own special kind of purgatory but the final result was worth it. I’ll take photos today and post the finished outside in the next couple of days. (Note I say finished outside...).

Today I am sewing curtains and cleaning windows on the glamper. That will have to count as my exercise (hee hee!) because I’m also trying to finish out my February collection for Carta Bella a little later today. Did I mention I finished my next fabric line this morning? It’s been a productive day.

While I am thinking of it, I wanted to make sure and give you a “things-you-should-check-out” list. It’s short and sweet:).

* The Rini Doll on the Pleasant Home—Jodi sewed up this darling doll and is giving away a pattern!

* Thankful Leaves Free Download—It’s a fun way to remember to be thankful! This year, I’m cutting out the leaves in advance and taking it to Thanksgiving dinner so we can fill it out as a family.

* Christmas Advent Calendar—This is one Christmas goody that I would recommend getting a head start on. Our Advent calendar comes out the same day as our Elf-on-the-Shelf does. This year I’m considering writing a note to each of my kids in some of the envelopes telling them some of my favorite things they did this year. Then we’ll staple them into their smash books. Journaling and advent calendar in one…done and done!

Off to sew some curtains!

Carina

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New in the Silhouette Shop—Clothing diecuts for your 18″ Dolls and more!

DIE CUT PROJECTS (SILHOUETTE & CRICUT), Digital Diecuts / carina

I’m back from a lovely sisters trip in St Louis (see my instagram feed) and happy to be home. The last two months I have been on the road a lot, and I’m ready to start thinking about the holidays. I spent the day decluttering my house in anticipation of holiday decorations. I’m planning on getting out my Thankful Leaves (feel free to download it for free too!) and letting my family take advantage of November to remember why things are so good in our lives.

With the holidays in mind, I’ve been trying to create digital scrapbooking and diecutting projects that will help me celebrate creatively. If you have been checking out my new Silhouette shop you’ll see that I have introduced several fabric projects, Thanksgiving goodies, and new this week are my Essentials Album Collection!

Carina’s Essentials Album 4×6 Vertical Bracket
Carina’s Essentials Album 3X4 Horizontal Basic
Carina’s Essentials Album 3×4 Horizontal Scallop
Carina’s Essentials Album 4×6 Vertical Rounded
Carina’s Essentials Album 4×6 Vertical Scallop
Carina’s Essentials Album 3X4 Arrow

My lovely assistant Susan (queue the Wheel of Fortune music) created a fun Halloween album that spotlights her kids costumes using the Carina’s Essentials Album 4×6 Vertical Bracket. She placed a picture on the cover of her kids in their costumes. On individual pages she added a picture of each child with some journaling.

Susan also placed pictures from her Halloween dinner into the album. She added the menu and guest list on the cards then tucked them in the pocket.

I’m loving these new Essential Albums. Make sure you check out the video (Episode 9) on the CGTV channel so you can see how to put them together.

Here are some of the other products I came out with over the last couple of weeks:

For fabric

Pants for 18″ Doll
Shorts for 18″ Doll
Sleeveless Blouse for 18″ Doll
Everyday Pincushion

For Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Accordion Album
Thanksgiving Take Out Box
Turkey and Fall Leaves
Fall Accordion Album
Fall Scallop Bag

More on the My Life Collection

My Life Month Tags
My Life 4X6 Journaling Cards Birthday Boy
My Life 4X6 Journaling Cards Birthday Girl
My Life 4X6 Journaling Cards Snowflake
My Life 4X6 Journaling Wedding Cards
My Life 4X6 Journaling Winter Cards

Hoping to get to some great projects this season! I should be revealing new Deseret Book collections soon and have you checked out my new line for Carta Bella Homemade with Love? It’s perfect for the holidays.

Revving up for the holidays,

Carina

New in the Silhouette Shop—Clothing diecuts for your 18″ Dolls and more! Read More »

The BIG SALE is here!

Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables / carina

This is my biggest sale of the year! Take advantage of it this weekend only! This sale includes EVERYTHING in the shop including classes, wallpaper, sewing patterns, containers & notions, diecuts, fabric, and kits. Did I mention that the sale is 90% to 30% off? Seriously, there are some amazing deals in the shop! Be sure and order before Sunday. We will be shipping everything out Monday morning!

And have you checked out our new FREE DOWNLOAD category? Not only is there an amazing freebie that goes along with the sale (you can find it here), but now it’s easier to find all my free downloads and tutorials. But grab it this weekend, because it goes to regular price after Sunday!

Have a happy weekend!

Carina

The BIG SALE is here! Read More »

Kimono Skirt Cuteness

Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Sewing, Sewing Patterns, Song Bird Fabric Line / carina

Happy Halloween! I have a bit of eye candy for you today! Andrea from Knitty Bitties put together my Kimono Skirt pattern in my Evening Blooms and Songbird fabrics.

How cute is her little niece modeling this skirt? Something about an itty bitty darling wearing those fun fabrics makes me smile. I can’t help it.

I love this pattern because it cuts like a quilt. Yes, that’s right. I’ve never done a pattern quite like this before but it is meant to be simple, sweet, and quick to sew up.

And have you seen how cute the double band of elastic is on the back of this skirt (see photos below). Probably my favorite part.

Go over and check out her post on it here.

As for me, you can check out my crafty doings for Halloween over at my instagram feed.

Today we are preparing the warehouse for tomorrow’s big sale. And I mean BIG! You won’t want to miss it! More info coming to you via social media tomorrow!

carina-gardner-kimono-skirt-ties Trick or treat!

Carina

Kimono Skirt Cuteness Read More »

Introducing the Toodaloo Back Pack and Little Sweet Lola Outfit

Quilt Market, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

At the moment, I am writing from the Denver Airport. I got on an early morning flight to come home from Quilt Market this morning (for a few pics of this, visit my instagram feed: carinagardner). I taught a schoolhouse, talked to distributors, and reconnected with others in the industry. It was the perfect in-and-out trip.

I also introduced two new sewing patterns that are now available in my shop and hopefully in a quilt shop near you with in the next couple of weeks!

First is my Toodaloo Back Pack. This is part of our Beginner Sewing Series and is sooo easy to put together! I specifically designed it so that there where no hard closures so that you can do this project with your tween or teenager. It’s also darling in boy fabric (see the back of the Toodaloo cover below).

I also came out with a new 18 inch doll pattern. I ADORE this pattern! It’s called the Little Sweet Lola Outfit and comes with a pattern for the blouse, ruffle shorts, drawstring pants, and ruffle pants.

Now that I’m headed home, Susan and I are working on getting together the schedule for the spring Glamper Tour. I also plan on painting the outside before the weather turns on me. Fingers crossed I can get it done!

As for today, I’m going home to snuggle my baby and girls. They had the croup last week and there were a few tears when I left on Thursday. Josh has been holding down the fort, which has been no easy job with all those sick kiddos.

Happy to be headed home,

Carina

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Introducing the Toodaloo Back Pack and Little Sweet Lola Outfit Read More »

More of My Life, Calendars, Journaling Cards in Diecut Land

Digital Diecuts, Silhouette / carina

I’ve been working hard to get out some new diecuts at the shop at Silhouette America! That is between binding quilts, checking fabric strike-offs, and working on the glamper.

As always my diecuts are .99 cents and you can save 25% on all of my Halloween shapes through October 31st!

Here’s what we came out with this last week:

4X6 Christmas Journaling Card Set
4X6 Halloween Journaling Card Set
4X6 Thanksgiving Journaling Card Set
Fabulous Frame Set 2
Happy Halloween Pillowbox
My Life Tabbed Calendar
My Life Bracketed Calendar
My Life Monthly Cut Outs
My Life Folder Inserts 4
My Life Folder Inserts 5

Yes, yes, I will post this week’s new items soon (if you want a sneaky peeky go here). If you sew and have a silhouette, I think you will be excited about what I have up!

Tomorrow I’m headed to Quilt Market, and I’ve been meaning to announce my new sewing patterns, but of course I haven’t gotten around to it. That and all the great stuff coming out from me at Deseret Book. Soon, very soon…

Be back in a jiff,

Carina

More of My Life, Calendars, Journaling Cards in Diecut Land Read More »

Episode 8: How to Use Sewable Interfacing with your Silhouette Machine

1 Comment / Carina Gardner TV, CRAFTS, Fabric, Sewing, Silhouette, Tutorials / carina

With all the new fabric files hitting my Silhouette Shop, I thought it would be helpful for you to see how I sew with the Sewable Interfacing. I show you a couple of my tricks for sewing with the stuff and how I set up my mat. Enjoy! -Carina

Episode 8: How to Use Sewable Interfacing with your Silhouette Machine Read More »

Easy Costumes on a Budget

Digital Diecuts, Holiday Projects, Silhouette / carina

I love costumes that are homemade and quick to put together. You may remember Siri’s favorite Octopus Costume that was made from socks and a t-shirt. For Halloween this year, my kids chose costumes with stuff we already had around the house and in the dress up clothing. Felicity will be a little Chinese girl, and Siri asked to be Medusa. Other than making a snake tiara for Siri, it’s going to be an easy year for costumes at our house!

Charlie is going to wear this little skeleton bones outfit that I made using my Silhouette machine. You can get my new Skeleton Bones diecut for this in the Silhoutte Shop for 99 cents! Not a bad price for a costume if I do say so myself.

I have tips for working with this diecut on my extremely-oh-so-very official silhouette page here: https://carinagardner.com/silhouette/. Susan and I are hoping to tape a video for that page sometime next week to teach you a few awesome things about your machine! Be on the lookout for that!

And if you are looking for more from me, this week we also released the following diecuts (for 99 cents as always!)

Halloween Skeleton Bones (above)
Cupcake Pencil Case
Monster Pencil Case
Halloween Bat Accordion Album
Sweet Life Accordion Album
Dahlia Fabric Flower
Monster Life Set 1
Monster Life Set 2
Monster Life Set 3
Fabulous Frame Set 1

Will show you a little more on the pencil cases soon! What are your kids going to be for Halloween?

Carina

Easy Costumes on a Budget Read More »

Glamper/Camper Renovation Part 3

7 Comments / Family, Glamper Renovation / carina

3_web_glamper_7 It’s been a busy couple of weeks with the glamper. Brandon has been working on it nonstop with his team over at Camper Reparadise. The list of things he has taken care of goes on and on. All the electrical was wired, new tanks, brake work, new wood installed with flooring, new water tank and pump, and outside replacement lights to name a few. It’s been amazing to see it come together on my trips to drop off flooring and fixtures.

Speaking of lights, lighting has been my nightmare conundrum. I spent several days looking at lights. I finally decided on one from Home Depot (without the long bottom piece) shown to the right (number 1). Turned out that the top part wouldn’t fit in some of the spaces. Then I bought the second light shown to the right (also from Home Depot) and although they fit, we realized that the trailer was set up for lights that each had an individual switch. I was totally heartbroken (because I was in love with the second lights by this point) and in trouble! I looked for a few days and finally settled on a light that I will have to repaint. A facing-down light, white, small, and with a switch is pretty well impossible to find. I couldn’t find a link for the one I found at Home Depot (despite all the online searches I ended up with one I found there!), but I’ll show you it in the final photos.

These lights are for the 120 volt power. I still had to buy lights for the 12 volt battery. Once again, not a chance you will find something cute out there. Thankfully, these lights are sort of hidden so I bought some run-of the-mill lights from the State Trailer Supply in SLC.

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I also learned my lesson with flooring. I purchased regular laminate wood planks at first and then had to return them in favor of vinyl planks. Apparently, they are waterproof and necessary. I purchased mine from my local Lowes. I didn’t have time to special order (the flooring needed to go in before other parts of the trailer could be finished) and Home Depot didn’t have anything dark enough. Brandon suggested we put the flooring under all of the chairs and in the bathroom to keep everything waterproof. After seeing the water damage in the floor before, I was only to happy to have him put it in anywhere he could. He also put down a layer of concrete (I think?) in the bathroom to give it some extra durability.

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Even though it is such a little thing, I have to share one of my favorite surprises with the camper renovation. See the photo below? That’s of my 12 Volt Battery and everything it is hooked up to. And yes!!!! Those are LABELS next to it. Brandon put labels here and on the entire water system. I was like, seriously? I love it when someone takes pride in their work and really goes the extra mile. It makes you feel like every little thing they are doing is top quality.

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The list of stuff that still has to be done is getting shorter although there is still plenty to do (note photo below. Eeek!).

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This week, I started getting my part of the glamper/camper renovation underway. I cleaned and primed all the drawers and picked up laminates for the cushions. Brandon still has the trailer so I’m trying to do anything I can while he is still working on it. Here’s my to do list for the coming week:

+ Sew all the cushions
+ Sew all the curtains
+ Finish painting all the drawers
+ Make pillows
+ Choose and order wallpaper
+ Put trim on the built in mirror
+Buy a showerhead

And once I get it, I have to do the following:

+ Some of the windows need to be replaced
+ Prime and paint the interior
+ Wallpaper
+ Prime and paint the exterior
+ Add laminates to the kitchen counter tops and table
+ Tile the shower

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Of course, there are lots of other things I need to do, that can wait (like make fabulous quilts and other such niceties), but those will have to wait.

I also wanted to pass on the information for Chad and John who I purchased the trailer from. They have a facebook page that shows the trailers they currently have. I loved working with them, and you shouldn’t be afraid to send them a message if you are interested in a trailer or airstream. They will LOOK for one for you and are super reasonably priced. Plus, the most invaluable part (for me) is they are willing to point you in the direction of people they have used, where to buy parts, ect. Since I was coming into this cold, having these guys walk me through what I needed to do was amazing. John even went with me to the hardware store to buy the hitch to my vehicle. Ya, they are that nice.

Looking forward to the projects ahead!

Carina

PS: Here are the links to Glamper Part 1 and Glamper Part 2.

Glamper/Camper Renovation Part 3 Read More »

The Crafting Chicks Strike Again!

CRAFTS, Holiday Projects, Wallpaper / carina

I met the Crafting Chicks just this last month at Fabric Fest. Talk about a darling group of ladies! I loved the camaraderie they had with each other and the energy they have for new projects! I wouldn’t mind capturing a bit of that energy and bottling it for a deadline (wink, wink…).

If you’ve been on their site recently, you’ll notice a myriad of awesome projects. That includes a darling printable, some easy Halloween decor, and a shout out from Becky who did my Halloween Advent class. Click on the photo to the right (image from craftingchicks.com) to see Becky’s take on the project.

While you are over there, be sure and also check out Nikkala’s Halloween Ice Cream Cups. That background wallpaper sure does look familiar…

I have all sorts of plans of getting my own house spookarific (and I’m sure I will be using some of the Crafting Chicks cute ideas). Unfortunately, things have been a little hectic between the new Deseret Book deadlines, the Carta Bella Winter Show lineup, and all the renovating we are doing on the glamper. I do have an update for you on the glamper, but it will have to wait until tomorrow.

Tonight I need to finish out my spring release of dishware at DB. Which reminds me…I have a lot of lovely announcements about new products from me from DB coming up here in the next three weeks. If you get your catalog in the mail, be sure and check out the bracelets, canvas art, and new Christmas dishware. More on that soon…

Carina

The Crafting Chicks Strike Again! Read More »

Carina Gardner Silhoutte Diecutting Files Now at SilhouetteAmerica.com

Digital Diecuts, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Holiday Projects, Silhouette / carina

That’s right! My big news this week is you can now find my diecutting files at silhouetteamerica.com. How cool is that?

This week was the first week we placed files on the silhouette site. You’ll see this darling halloween scalloped bag, fabric flowers, the my life album set, and more! Yesterday I put together a myriad of new projects for the shop that will come out next week! More fabric stuff and great paper shapes. And some monster surprises for Halloween.

Speaking of Halloween, I thought I would point you in the direction of some happy Halloween fun.

Last year, I did a Witch and Wizard Party. It’s fun, full of ideas and was a total blast. Photos and inspiration here: https://carinagardner.com/2012/10/17/witch-and-wizard-party-kids-halloween-party/ carinagardner_witchparty_web_1_72-copy

And of course, there has been the ever popular free banner download that I hung on my piano: https://carinagardner.com/2010/09/10/how-to-make-a-halloween-banner-free-download/

If you want ideas of easy bat art and free silhouette cutouts (and a video to boot!), there are free silhouette files here: https://carinagardner.com/2012/08/15/episode-4-all-hallows-eve-decor-video/

Want to make a batty wreath? Here’s the free pattern to make it: https://carinagardner.com/2009/10/23/spiders-web-papers-batty-wreath/

Last but not least, the Halloween Advent class is on sale for $3. That’s right! Take advantage of this sale while your can! http://www.carinagardnershop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=162&category_id=37&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2

Going to get up all my Halloween decorations this week! Wish me luck!

Carina

Carina Gardner Silhoutte Diecutting Files Now at SilhouetteAmerica.com Read More »

Pleasant Home and the Bella Stash Bag

Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

If you are looking for some fabulous inspiration, head on over to the Pleasant Home. With Halloween right around the corner, she fabric pieced my Bella Stash Bag Pattern in these darling orange and black fabrics. Isn’t it so cute?

I love that this pattern (one of our Beginner Series patterns), really is so easy that you can make any number of variations of it.

I have another Beginner Series sewing pattern coming out for fall quilt market. Hopefully, I’ll be giving you a sneak peek at the end of this week.

Happy fall!

Carina

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Organize

2 Comments / Sewing, UPDATES FROM CARINA / carina

IMG_4004_web

Heaven knows that there are a few (or more…) drawers in my house that could use some organizing. The (scary) one above is the one I tackled this week. I have been finishing up my fall pattern release, which of course, means that I spent the week sewing. After throwing my hands up more than once, I finally decided it was time to move some of that piping around to see what was in the bottom-most depths of that drawer. My simple solution (because, you know, I have deadlines this week!) included labels (from address labels from my warehouse) and gallon-sized ziplock bags. Simple and effective, right?

IMG_4010_web

Sad when you realize the number of packages of Velcro, bias tape, and elastic (oh my!) you have. I just kept buying more to avoid this drawer. Pathetic, I know.

On the upside, I have some cool news for you at the beginning of next week, I am extending my dishware line for Deseret Book for next fall and hellllooo! So This is Christmas has arrived at my house! Oh ya, and I’ll be announcing the new patterns soon.

Getting (a tiny bit) more organized,

Carina

Organize Read More »

Glamper/Camper Renovation Part 2

5 Comments / Family, Glamper Renovation / carina

Sewing Summit’s Quilt Shop Hop today (which by the way was awesome!), I ran over to Brandon’s to check out the official renovation list. As per request from the Part 1 comments, here’s the abbreviated list I am having him work on. He gave me a invoice that separates out labor and cost of parts. I love that because it gives me a good idea of what I am really paying for. We are hoping the trailer will be done in a month, but I suspect it will be more like 6 weeks.

InteriorDesignBoard

So far I am about $800 over budget but I know there are things I haven’t compensated for. Plus I haven’t calculated in any of MY costs for beautifying this baby (paint, fabric, light fixtures).

-Install new Fridge
-Remove and replace Water Heater (Atwood 6 Gallon Gas Water Heater)
-Replace fresh water tank (24 Gallon)
-Remove and install new toilet and fittings
-Install new water pump
-Install new battery (12 Volt Marine Deep Cycle Battery)
-Remove Rotten Floor including Bathroom Floor
-Install Inverter/Charger (Progressive Dynamics 45 AMPS)
-Install Propane Tank (2, 5 Gal tanks)
-Remove rotten material for fridge and rebuild
-Replace trailer cable,
-Repack hubs and bearing inspection
-Power check, shoe inspection, axle inspection

You can see these are not exactly little things. And it doesn’t include the possibility of replacing a ceiling panel, ceiling vent/fan, and putting in the flooring for me. I can’t imagine doing all of those things myself so I’m grateful to have Brandon. The last thing you want on happy-family-mini-vaca is for everything to breakdown.

Above are some of the materials I’m considering for the interiors (because that’s the fun part). You like the photoshop magic? I tried a few different colors before I settled on this one. I’m going to have to see if I can find a color chip to match.

I also started a glamper pinterest board to keep me organized. If you have any inspiration(or have done a glamper yourself) please leave a comment with a link on this post! I would love to see!

Also, if you know anything about 12v, gas, and 120 v lighting fixtures, please send me links! I’m finding it difficult to find cute fixtures.

I also promised this information:

Brandon (who is repairing my camper) is at http://campereparadise.com/wp/. He is based in Salt Lake City and while the website doesn’t show alot, the trailers in his repair shop does. He has a few that are for sale as well.

Carina

Glamper/Camper Renovation Part 2 Read More »

Glamper/Camper Renovation Part 1

10 Comments / Family, Glamper Renovation / carina

IMG_3431_web_camper1 That’s right. It says Part 1 up there in the title. That’s because I can tell, this is going to be a long project.

A few weeks back I started thinking about getting a camper. I had all sorts of fabulous dreams about what a camper could do for us…family outings, quilt shop stoppings, glamping in style…you know, all the usual stuff you think about when getting a camper.

I did a lot of looking on google and my local classifieds. I have an obsession for Airstreams and have been eying them for five years now but felt they were out of my price range. So I turned to looking for a more retro design.

So what was I looking for? Here was my list of must-haves:
+ sleeps 5-6
+single axle (for those of you who, like me, had no idea what that means, it’s just one set of wheels)
+ smallish (as in-not hard on my car)
+bathroom
+1950s-1960s design
+functional equipment and tanks

Did I mention this was a dream list? Because I wasn’t about to find something in my price range with all of these things.

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I happened upon an ad for the camper above on a local news website from a couple of guys named Chad and John. They find and sell used trailers and will even LOOK for one that matches your needs and price range. I am waiting on the Facebook Page and will post a link to it for those of you in the Utah area. They have been awesome to work with.

Anyway, I fell in love with the layout of this camper. It is a 1969 Jet Airway (barely in my date range!) and is 17 feet long. I walked through a couple of their 12 foot trailers. I loved the small size but felt the lack of bathrooms (rare in a 12 foot camper) was not a negotiable feature (who wants to take their kids to the campsite bathroom at midnight?). Other pluses, this camper had a single axel and my car could easily tow it.

Another bonus was that it has a couch that pulls out into a queen bed, dinette that turns into a bed, and then a bunk that slides back above the dinette. Sleeping space, check!

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Obviously, this old girl needed some work. The problem is, I didn’t know HOW MUCH work I was in for. I took the camper to a local restoration shop. Brandon (his website will also be in the next post) tore the thing apart and, well, let’s say, it wasn’t pretty what he found. Cut lines, broken floors, water damage, and more.

This is where I took a deep breath.

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I would love to say I’m a DIYer, but I’m not. I like to make things pretty (designer, remember?) so if it has to do with electricity and plumbing, I’m not your girl. What originally looked like a 2 week quick fix has turned into a several week renovation.I guess no trip to St. George for UEAA weekend. Sigh.

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These last few pictures are from today when I went over to verify everything that has to be done. Maybe I’ll give you the list, if you think it will be fun or useful. Tell me in the comments. Either way, it’s ALOT of stuff. Brandon will be working on the technical while I will be painting, sewing, and tiling (okay, well, I will do cosmetic DIY stuff).

In the meantime, I will be sewing curtains and cushions. I will also be picking out lighting fixtures, colors for the exterior and inside, and choosing wallpaper and tile. I’ll show you my project sheet soon. I think you will like. Think white, aqua, red, black, pink, and polka dot. It’s going to be fun!

Dreaming of going glamping (while kids dream of glamping late-overs),
Carina

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Fabric Fest with Riley Blake Designs 2013

1 Comment / Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Fabric Fest, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

IMG_3881_1 It’s taken me a few days to recover from Fabric Fest with Riley Blake Designs in Vegas. As always, RB put on a classy event. They fed, fed, and fed us some more. There were some fabulous classes, but mostly it was nice to reconnect with other designers, shop owners, and people I love.

The photos to the right and below are from the dinner and fashion show on Tuesday evening. I spent the few days before Fabric Fest quickly getting these outfits together. I loved how they turned out!

(shown in the photos from left to right are Evening Blooms fabric line, Tulip Park Pinafore, Bella Stash Bag, Playdate Outfit, Little Playdate Outfit, Love Nest Ruffle Dress, and the Little Love Nest Ruffle Dress).

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I drove down to the event with designers Samantha Walker and Lori Whitlock (also at Carta Bella and Echo Park with me). Every time I get together with these girls I am more amazed at all they do. (Photo below from right to left: Shari Butler of Doohikey Designs, Samantha Walker, myself, and Lori Whitlock).

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This was my first time meeting Sue Daley. Other than being a bubbly and positive personality (with a darling Australian accent), I was loving that she was wearing all of my fabric during the entire fest!!!! Look how darling she is in Evening Blooms (photos below)! Even the darling piping on the dress to the left is pink Dainty Blossoms. I took Sue’s paper piecing class and learned so much. I am a total fan!

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That messy table of tchotchkes is my little booth in the vendor hall. We sold out of most of the samples the very first night.

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I took the Halloween Advent Set to show people (FYI, did you know that the Lunch Love Notes and the Halloween Advent Classes are only $3 each until Halloween? Get them while they are hot!).

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Me pretending to be Vanna White with my latest line Evening Blooms.

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fabricfest_1 And how could I not adore all of these lovely ladies? (Kris and Kim of the DIY Dish, Kimberbell Designs, and My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shop, Lori Holt, Shari Butler of Doohikey Designs, Melissa Mortenson of the Polka Dot Chair, Lindsay Wilkes of the Cottage Mama, and Amy Smart of Diary of a Quilter)

Ask if I finished ANYTHING at the conference. Oh, ya. I was 0 for 5. I came home and finished Melissa’s Retro travel bag (and hand-bound the inside bias strips) just in time to see everyone this coming weekend at Sewing Summit. September is turning into my official sewing month! Especially with sewing patterns due out by October 1st. Eek!

Heavens knows I have a few fun surprises for you in the coming weeks! For more pictures on fabric fest, check out my instagram feed at http://instagram.com/carinagardner.

Sew happy,

Carina

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Fabric Fest Around the Corner

Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Sewing / carina

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Fabric fest begins on Monday evening, and I’m heading to Las Vegas with Lori Whitlock and Samantha Walker! I’m so excited to hang out with the Riley Blake crew and learn some new techniques! This last week I’ve spent sewing some lovely samples for the fashion show on Tuesday night (photo above is of the Tulip Park Pinafore and Bella Stash Bag Sewing Patterns). I love these two patterns because they are part of our “Beginner” sewing series and sew up fast! I also made a Playdate Outfit and coordinating 18 inch doll Little Playdate set along with a Love Nest Ruffle Dress and coordinating 18 inch doll outfit. I can’t wait to photograph them at the show for you. (All of the samples are made in my Evening Blooms fabric line).

Oh, and I needed to pass this little bit of information along:

There is a art/fabric/sample sale portion of the event that is open to the public on Wednesday, September 11, 2013 from 4pm-9pm at

South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa
9777 Las Vegas Blvd South
Las Vegas, NV 89183

Hope you have a chance to come check it out! I’ll have a little table with patterns, samples, wallpaper samples, and scrapbooking goodies that I’d love for you to check out!

Vegas bound,

Carina

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Silhouette Files at CarinaGardnerShop.com

Digital Diecuts, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Scrapbooking / carina

Hello_Toothfairy_51fed4f2d6c03 Have I mentioned that there are digital diecutting files in the shop? Oh ya, I don’t think I have.

When I opened the shop last March, we were so busy trying to figure out how to run a retail shop (not an easy endeavor!), that I didn’t have time to actually design many diecutting files.

That’s officially changed. We have been uploading lots of great new files in the shop and you can get your hands on some free diecuts. We change these out pretty often so grab them when you can!

We also implemented a brand new category called NEW DIECUTS. We should be releasing new diecuts every Tuesday so be sure and check that category for the brand-spankin’ new goodies!

The diecuts come as a zip download and is available immediately (free diecuts can take up to 24 hours to show up in your inbox). It includes several files including svg, ai, jpg, dxf, png, and pdf. Yep, we’ve got you covered for whatever machine you are using. Don’t have a machine? That’s why we put in a jpg and png. Simply cut it out.

Probably my favorite product right now are the MY LIFE folder inserts.I plan on cutting some out for my kid’s school folders. I’m also going to play around with making them smaller (they are sized for 8.5 x 11 folder—be sure to use the svg file to keep your size from shrinking). I think they would make a darling album!

I’m actually working on next weeks digital die cutting files right after this blogpost. What are some diecuts you’d like to see?

Happy Crafting!

Carina

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Weekend with College Roommates

1 Comment / Fabric, Remember Fabric Line, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

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IMG_3530_web Last weekend I got together with my 12 college roommates from freshman and sophomore year at BYU. It was the first time we had all gotten together since we lived at the Elms 14 years ago. It was an amazing experience seeing what everyone was doing and reminiscing on the old days. It made me miss college. Well, the social part anyway.

I brought up supplies to scrapbook and sew for the fun of it. I didn’t actually think we would have time to craft. So I was completely amazed when everyone started in on the fabric, and we made a crazy mess of the cabin.

The group sewed up the Little Love Next Ruffle Dress, and we made up a funny little pincushion. I took up 2 garbage bags of scrap fabric and was so happy to see them used for the pincushions. Love seeing a little Paris and Co mixed with some Songbird.

The best part was (after everyone went home) seeing everyone’s texts of their little girls holding their dolls in the new outfits. Sooo cute!

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Still trying to figure out how Brittany was able to do the splits. Go Brit!

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We also shopped (couldn’t be helped) and went to Olympus Park for a ride down the Alpine Slide and one of the zip lines. I might have screamed like a little girl on the zipline (shhh!)

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We also had a surprise baby shower for Amanda (having her first baby!). There may have been some squabbling on the correct way to swaddle a baby (the Burrito vs. the Binky-holding-in method). Thankfully, we had a real baby to perform all the swaddling tests on. (photo below is the Onesie Advice Diecut book).

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I don’t have any photos of this (except on instagram), but we also knocked on our old apartments at the Elms and Chipman Hall (almost brought tears to my eyes!) and bombarded the current residents (who let us in to take photos). We ate at the Brick Oven, I drove a four wheeler for the first time, laughed our heads off in a Rhino-Jeep-Thingy (and almost fell out when we went over bumps), and tried to go running (super fail).

It was so amazing to reconnect with all these wonderful lovely women. Feeling so blessed to know them!

Hope you are having a lovely end-of-summer too!

Carina

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How to Make A Fabric Flower

1 Comment / Carina Gardner TV, CRAFTS, Fabric, Remember Fabric Line, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

In honor of the Create and Make Class beginning NEXT week, I have a little treat for you! Siri and I made a quick little video showing you how to sew together one of the little flowers from the Little Playdate Outfit and Little Love Nest Ruffle Dress Sewing Patterns. It’s a fun video and I think you’ll love how simple the flowers are to make! Enjoy! Carina

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Remember Pinwheel Tutorial

Fabric, Remember Fabric Line, Sewing, Tutorials / carina

I know you are going to love this little project made with my Remember fabric! Andrea from Knitty Bitties made this lovely pinwheel table runner that I am swooning over. What’s that? You want a tutorial? Luckily for you, Andrea has one on her blog here: knittybitties.blogspot.com.

I love the way this pretty little thing is quilted together and the pinwheels are sweet. I can see making an entire quilt with these babies. But if you are like me and big projects start to wear you down, this is the perfect little project.

Speaking of projects, have you done any this summer? Or have you filled your days with library outings, pool time, and vacation?

I’ve been able to work on a few sewing projects but am now full swing into fall sewing pattern season. And winter scrapbooking designing season. But that’s another story.

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Later this week, I am heading to a retreat with my BYU college roommates. It’s the first time we have had a chance to get together since, well, I’m not sure when. Follow my instagram feed if you want to sneaky-peeky into our doings. I promised to bring up scrapping and fabric supplies for some crafting fun. And while there will be some of that, I suspect there will mostly be a lot of catching up, reminiscing, baking, and then, um, eating.

Happy Sewing!

Carina

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Evening Blooms Fabric Collection

2 Comments / CRAFTS, Evening Blooms Fabric Line, Fabric, Free Digital Downloads-Freebies-Free Digital Printables, Riley Blake, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

I just got back from CHA yesterday and am hoping to have photos up of all the scrapbooking goodness up sometime next week. In the meantime, I am so excited to announce that Evening Blooms™ has now hit quilt shops! This is my first black and white line. I also threw in a fun gray and yellow colorway to mix it up a little.

To top it off, I have a free quilt pattern for you! I was inspired by the colorways to create a vintage camera quilt pattern. You can grab the instructions, yardage information, and pattern from the shop here. This pattern is for intermediate quilters (there are a lot of tiny pieces).

I should have more projects to show you with this fabric line because I am making many of the patterns for Fabric Fest (sneaking up on me!). Below you can see my Siri-girl dressed up in the Love Nest Ruffle Dress with her look-alike doll in the Little Love Nest Ruffle Dress. It’s always refreshing to see the patterns in new fabric!

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As always, I have a lookbook for you for this fabric line. Check it out here: https://carinagardner.com/fabric/evening-blooms-fabric/

Carina

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Remember Cuteness

1 Comment / Remember Fabric Line, Sewing / carina

Creamie wearing remember dress 1 This happens every summer for me. I blink, and suddenly the summer is half-way over with. Does that happen to you too?

Summer is also a funny time in our studio because that is generally when we are making samples for Halloween, Christmas, and generally getting ready for winter. The office mates are probably tired of the off-season Christmas music. Sigh.

I know I haven’t shown you a lot of projects with my Remember fabric so today I have some lovely eye candy for you! Erika from pinksuedeshoe sent me over these darling photos that she made with the Remember Words in Cream fabric.

She says that she made this dress using the Simplicity 5695 Pattern but added an inset waistband and changed the skirt to be a lot twirlier (my kind of girl!). She said that it’s about 90 inches along the hem. This dress also has a 4 inch deep hem so that she can let it out as her daughter grows. Hello, practical!

The pink polka dot fabric she used to contrast this Remember fabric is used in the bow and the waistband. You don’t need very much. I personally adore the little pink bow on this blondie’s bun. Sew sweet!

Creamies big pink bow

I also have to hand it to Erika’s imagination. I haven’t used this fabric yet for a child’s outfit. When I designed it, I was really catering to quilters. The ease and freshness of this is lovely.

Creamie wearing remember dress 4 copy

Creamie wearing remember dress 3

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A big thank you to Erika for the photos (and for sharing with us her cute model)!

—Carina

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Create and Make Class in the Carina Gardner Shop!

Carina Gardner Online Shop, Classes / carina

createandmakeclassicons_shop_all It’s up! My new Create & Make Class! This is a Self-Paced class that will be available on August 4, 2013. It is currently on pre-sale.

I’ve been thinking about doing a class like this some time now. It’s hands on, for everyone, and includes your kids. For me, when I can include my kids in my creative process, it feels so much more fulfilling. I loved the quality time I was able to spend with Siri just making these videos! Create and Make: Creating with Kids is exactly what it sounds like—an opportunity to sit down and do. We had a great time filming this class and made sure to make it user-friendly. That means step-by-step instructions, materials lists, and kid-friendly. Watch it with your kids and pause at each step as you work on projects with me!

There are Early Bird (before July 5th — $24.50) and Before the Bell (before August 4—$29.75) prices for this class. The normal price for this class is just $35. This is the first time we have offered Early Bird and Before the Bell pricing on a class because it is also the first time we have a coordinating kit available.

Kits include $120 worth of crafting supplies including scrapbooking kits, fabric, twine, lace and more! Kits are normally $84 but there is also Early Bird ($69.60) and Before the Bell ($74.40) pricing available too. There are a limited number of kits and

they will be mailed on a first-come, first-serve basis. We only ship these kits to the continential USA, but feel free to email us at customerservice@carinagardner.com, and we would love to get you a quote on an international shipping address.

You can also purchase each of the classes separately in the shop (check that out here). We also have extra sets of containers available for purchase outside of the kit. We have limited quantities on these as well. My favorite is the little set of containers we use for the Halloween Advent. We sell it in sets of 31 so you can use it for any month (think Christmas, Easter, or spring). They can be used for any “count-down” craft. We also wanted them to be available in case you wanted an extra set for a gift or for multiple projects.

Want to see more of what we are doing?

Watch the intro video:

Create and Make Class in the Carina Gardner Shop! Read More »

Movie Nights in the Park

Family / carina

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We introduced our kids to The Neverending Story on Friday at Millcreek Movie Night. (Pictured here is Siri, cousin Lola, Felicity, and Charlie—who is busy eating a flip flop—good parenting at work here.) I love these outdoor movie nights that the county offers. I became friends with the fabulous lady behind it—Aimee McConkie—when we all lived in Minnesota. So much work goes into these events. Oh ya, and she does it for free. Just because she believes in community. She’s A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.

This has been a different summer for me since Josh is home and we aren’t a slave to the billable hour. Here’s what we have been up to:
+ I go to work early and come home early. It’s lovely!
+ Josh has been in charge of the kids.
+ Turns out Josh is super hard core about the girls doing reading time, workbooks, and chores in the morning.
+ Siri and I have been taping a new Create and Make class. It has been so intense!
+ I’ve been taping and writing a new chalkboard class and paper class.
+ I’ve started work on fall sewing patterns. I.can. not. believe. it.
+ I started work on a new free quilt pattern for my new fabric line Evening Blooms.
+ I have been crazy about decluttering the house and yard.
+ I think I might finally be making some headway.
+ And will yard sale it all in a couple of weeks.
+ We have been to Lagoon
+ And will probably go a lot this summer since our kids are not getting real vacation (or any camping).
+ I finally feel like I have time to read again. Obsessed with a Coco Chanel biography I have been reading.
+ I’m trying to get serious about diecutting files. More on this soon!
+ Siri and I filmed another CGTV episode. It’s not up yet. Sigh.
+ Somehow my office/warehouse got small overnight.
+ That’s what happens when four people come to work all at the same time.
+ I’ve a few more things coming out this fall for Deseret Book. I’m so excited about them!
+ I’m finishing up my 2014 fabric lines. Think “boy” wink, wink.

And with that, I am off to finish up some photos and head to Lagoon.
Happy Summer!
Carina

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Summer Begins

Family / carina

IMG_2352_web Hello! It’s Monday morning, bright and early, and I very happily set to work this morning on my 2014 fabric lines. There has been so much going on these last few months that I am welcoming a moment to really sit down, draw, and think. There aren’t many moments like this since the office has also been pretty busy these days. Two new little summer interns (my sister-in-laws) and a new warehouse manager come into the office daily now. The office is pretty tiny so having that many people in and out makes things a little tight, but we are all making do and having fun with it all.

To accommodate everyone’s comings and goings as well as to get ready for summer, I started a new schedule. I try to get into the office by 6 or 6:30am. It means I go home pretty early in the day so that I can hang out with the kids and Josh.

I wish I was one of those people that could work with white noise, but I can’t. I like the silence. So coming in early to work helps me a lot. It’s nice feeling like I have accomplished so much by 9am and even better when I go home at 3pm to help with Siri’s harp lesson and make dinner.

In the summer, I hope to be able to jump on my bike to head home around 1pm so I get to savor summer too. I have the best commute ever. I’m not sure if it is even a block. It’s definitely less than a 5 minute walk. But I like taking my little cruiser because if I need to run home for a second to help out or grab something, I can.

Hoping for a fabulous summer with lots of camp outs, bonfires, gardening, swimming, and some good ol’ fashion sitting (my favorite thing to do—usually in the sun, on a porch, and holding my Charlie). The kids’ final day of school is Wednesday and I suspect there will be some festivities (possibly the traditional camp out in the backyard).

Are you as ready for summer as I am?

Carina

Summer Begins Read More »

Spring Quilt Market Review 2013!

Carina Gardner TV, Fabric / carina

Instead of my usual photo review of Quilt Market, I have a special treat for you! In one day, we did 15 interviews with different designers/products to give you a taste of Quilt Market in Portland. I had a such a great time seeing everyone’s new stuff. Here’s who I talk to in the video:

Joel Dewberry, Amanda Herring, Pickle Pie Designs, Patty Young, Amy McClellan, Cluck Cluck Sew, Camille Roskelley, Kim Christopherson, Heather Bailey, Rashida Coleman-Hale, Bari J., Shari Butler, Ruffle Fabric, Generation Q, and Miss Rose Sister Violet.

I hope you enjoy!

Happy sewing!

Carina

Spring Quilt Market Review 2013! Read More »

5000 Facebook Fan Giveaway

Dishes, Giveaways / carina

Hang out with me here: https://www.facebook.com/carina.gardner.designs

5000 Facebook Fan Giveaway Read More »

Well Played!

Carta Bella Paper, Scrapbooking / carina

While I’ve been at Quilt Market, my new line Well Played was announced at Carta Bella! I”m so excited for this scrapbook line! It’s modern and upbeat! It’s game board inspired but has enough great patterns in it for everyday use. I plan on using it for all my kid layouts. Hoping to get a chance to play with it this week.

This line ships in June. Check out the whole line (and the awesome sticker sheet) here.

XOXO,

Carina

Well Played! Read More »

Fabric Design Begins Next Week!

1 Comment / Classes, Fabric, Illustrator, Interviews / carina

I’ve been working day and night to finish this new class. I even just updated the syllabus to give you even more details on what we are doing in this class. It is 20% off for this session (because of the Grand Opening sale), and I hope you take advantage so I can see you in class! I’m going to show you how I print fabric from home, create repeats for production, get sketches and painting vectorized, and a whole lot more. I just finished editing the videos with Creative Director Jina Barney, designer Amanda Herring, designer Shari Butler, and designer Deena Rutter. Believe me, it’s going to be fun!!!

I know in future sessions I plan on interviewing more designers. Those who take this first session will also get any interviews I do forever after since I plan on just adding them into the class as we do new sessions.

The best is that the Fabric Design class comes on the heels of Quilt Market. I’m heading out tomorrow and trying to wrap up my schoolhouse and make and takes. We are also taking all the audio and camera equipment to do a CGTV episode! Yes, I know it has been a long time, but whewww! It’s been busy!

Instagramming for QM begins NOW!

Cheers!

Carina

Fabric Design Begins Next Week! Read More »

Mother’s Day Weekend and Dishware Debut Recap

Dishes, Family / carina

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day! The first half of my day was spent at Deseret Book signing dishware. A big thank you to everyone who came to visit me at the Fort Union Deseret Book to catch the debut of my dishware collection! It was such a treat to chat with you and give your children cookies. For those of you who did not make it and avoided the excessive sugar, I managed to snap a few photos so you could see the display.

I knew exactly what to do with the cookies that were not eaten—I had Siri try to pawn them off on the neighbor kids. (She tried to sell them but I told her I would pay her the 10 cents for every kid who walked by and took one.) We still managed to have enough cookies for the family party that evening and the children at church the next day. Umm, I think I over-ordered. (photo below—Siri happily selling cookies.)

The second part of my Saturday was spent with Josh’s family cleaning out his grandmother’s yard. Dinner followed at his mother’s house. (Above-Josh’s brother Nate and Nate’s twins London and Quinn).

It was the most beautiful day for yardwork although, other than hacking at a rose bush, I mostly played with Charlie (photos above and below). At least it looks like there is some yardwork being done behind me!

My niece Lola rakes for a moment (photo below) and Josh stops his pruning for a moment to chat (photo below). I’m guessing the photos I didn’t catch (in particular of my mother-in-law Mary planting all the flowers) was were all the real work was happening.

Having a family chin-dig on Saturday was so nice because it meant our little family relaxed (and I slept in-the perfect mother’s day present) today.

This week Josh and I are off to Portland for Quilt Market. I plan on posting lots of photos. I’m not doing a booth and instead plan on spending some time filming, talking to other designers, teaching schoolhouse, and doing make and takes at the Riley Blake booth. I’m so looking forward to it!

Cheers!

Carina

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Winner of the Little Playdate Outfit Sample

Giveaways / carina

And the winner of the Little Playdate Sample outfit by random selection is Alisinwnderlnd.

Alisinwnderlnd says:
Cute! Love! Oh wait, you mean my daughter. She says they are adorable and her “Diamond” and “Kit” would be darling in them. (I wish you could hear her voice saying this–too cute.)

Congrats Alisinwnderlnd! I will be sending you an email tonight to get your address so we can send it right off to you!

Thank you everyone who entered. Susan has been preparing our next giveaway for you and I’m hoping to have it up this week! So check back for more yumminess!

Carina

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Dishware Now Available Online!

1 Comment / Dishes, EVENTS / carina

My dishware line has officially hit the Deseret Book Online Shop! I might be a teensy-weensy excited:).

Dishes
Large Serving Bowl
Three Piece Tray
Tray

I’ll also be heading to the Fort Union Deseret Book tomorrow from 11am-1pm to hand out treats from my new line and sign packaging. Come join me along with authors Gale Sears and Kathi Petersen who will also be at the event!

MAY 11, 2013, SATURDAY 11am -1pm
Fort Union Deseret Book
1110 Fort Union Blvd.
Midvale, UT 84047

Other than that, this weekend is all about Mother’s Day (which means I will be getting breakfast in bed right, Josh?) and hanging out with family. I know we are headed to Josh’s grandmother’s house for some Mother’s Day gardening and I’m on the spot with presents this year.

Hope you have a wonderful Mother’s Day and I hope to see you tomorrow!

Cheers!

Carina

PS The giveaway for the sample of the Little Playdate Outfit ends today! Make sure and enter by leaving a comment HERE.

Dishware Now Available Online! Read More »

Introducing the new Spring 2013 Sewing Patterns

75 Comments / Remember Fabric Line, Sewing, Sewing Patterns / carina

It’s here! I get to introduce you to our brand new line of Spring 2013 Sewing Patterns! To top it off we are GIVING AWAY one of our Little Playdate Outfit (for the 18 inch doll) Samples for your 18 inch doll! Details after I introduce the new patterns (below).

I’m happy to introduce our very first 18 inch doll sewing patterns! They are so incredibly fun! Our final two patterns are part of my brand new BEGINNER series. All of these sewing patterns are available NOW in the shop. Kits for certain outfits will follow this week!

So without further ado:

Little Playdate Outfit

The outfit comes with the blouse, dress, capri, and shorts options that are also available in the little girl version. These dolls are dressed in the Dainty Blossoms™ and Remember™ fabrics.

It’s cute as a button and ready for some fun! This 18 inch doll pattern is based on the Playdate Outfit Sewing Pattern (sizes 2T-8 | pattern sold seperately).

A LITTLE PLAYDATE OUTFIT KIT will be available in the shop sometime this week and will include the materials needed to complete an outfit.

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Little Love Nest™ Ruffle Dress

This ruffled confection is a modern take on a sophisticated doll dress. Simply sweet, it is the perfect accessory to your little girl’s Love Nest™ Ruffle Dress (pattern sold separately). Dress fits an 18 inch doll.

This doll is dressed in the Remember™ fabrics.

A LITTLE LOVE NEST RUFFLE DRESS KIT will be available in the shop sometime this week and will include the materials needed to complete an outfit.

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Little Meadowlark Nightgown

My first nightgown pattern! This little nighty is sophisticated and sweet all at once. A little elastic in the elbow and wrist makes the sleeve puffy. The perfect traditional piece made modern by fabulous fabrics.

Give this traditional nightgown a modern twist with fabulous patterned fabrics!

These dolls are dressed in the Remember™ fabrics.

A LITTLE MEADOWLARK NIGHTGOWN KIT will be available in the shop sometime this week and will include the materials needed to complete an outfit.

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Our two other patterns are the debut of a new pattern series for beginners. We tested these on beginners and perfected them for easy construction! We have two levels: Beginner and Beginner Plus. We put a chart (below) on patterns that are included in the series.

Bella Stash Bag-Beginner Pattern

This little beauty is the perfect on-the-go carry case. From ballet shoes, books, or electronics, this stash bag is a sweet treat for mom, tween, or little one. The bag pattern and instructions are easy to put together for beginning sewers. With help from a grown-up, this bag is the perfect project for tweens and teens too!

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Tulip Park Pinafore-Beginner Plus Pattern

It’s time to tromp through the flower garden, paint, or bake in this pretty little pinafore! This perfect apron dresses up an outfit and works hard at the same time. This pinafore fits sizes 4-10 and is one size fits all. This is a beginner plus pattern meaning that it is a fast project for intermediates and an easy-to-sew project for beginners.

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To top it off, we are giving away one of the samples we have of the Little Playdate Outfit with the pink top and gray bottom. That’s right! This little outfit could be yours! All you have to do is tell me what sewing pattern you like the best in the comments of this blog post, and you will be entered. The giveaway ends on May 10th at 5pm MST. Winner will be announced on May 12th here on the blog!

I’ve also linked this giveaway at the Sew Mama Sew site where there are A LOT of amazing giveaways going on right now. Make sure and go check it out!

Introducing the new Spring 2013 Sewing Patterns Read More »

Introducing Carina Gardner Embroidery Files

2 Comments / Fabric / carina

I’m so excited to announce my partnership with Pickle Pie Designs! They have come up with embroidery designs using my fabric lines. The first is this darling flower from my Dainty Blossoms™ Line. It’s perfectly paired with my newest line Remember™ for Riley Blake. The most fabulous thing is that the entire bag is made from start to finish in the hoop of your embroidery machine!

I’ll be seeing Lisa of Pickle Pie Designs at Quilt Market in just another week and plan on giving you the inside scoop on this little gem.

Quilt Market is in Portland, Oregon this year and I’m so excited. Josh is coming with me with camera in hand so we can get footage of the Riley Blake booth, meet with designers, and more! I am teaching a Schoolhouse (if you are coming, please come see me at 1:55pm, Rm A109 !)

I’ll also be announcing my new sewing patterns….da, da, da…TOMORROW!

Jumping with excitement,

Carina

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Upcoming Events—Come See Me!

Dishes, Fabric / carina

MAY 11, 2013, SATURDAY 11am -1pm
Fort Union Deseret Book
1110 Fort Union Blvd.
Midvale, UT 84047

Come see me at the Fort Union Desert Book where I will be serving treats on my new dishware line! I’ll also have make and takes with my new fabric line Remember, which will be upstairs in Mormon Handicraft. I’ll even be signing my Carina Gardner™ packaging if you are purchasing any of the dishware.

MAY 16, 2013, THURSDAY 1:55pm-2:55pm
Quilt Market Schoolhouse Room A109
Portland, Oregon
How to Use Sewing Patterns to Attract Beginner Sewers
Not for available to the general public.

MAY 17, 2013 FRIDAY 4:00-4:45pm
Make and Takes at the Riley Blake Booth with Carina Gardner
Quilt Market
Portland, Oregon
Not available to the general public.

We will be making the flower pattern from my new 18 inch doll patterns. Fabric and embellishments provided. Come join me!

JUNE 12, 2013 WEDNESDAY 11am-1pm
Desert Book/Mormon Handicraft Shop Hop
Make and Takes with Carina Gardner
Fort Union Desert Book
1110 Fort Union Blvd.
Midvale, UT 84047

We will be making the flower pattern from my new 18 inch doll patterns. Fabric and embellishments provided. Come join me!

JULY 22-25, 2013
Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show
Create-n-Connect
Las Vegas, NV
I will be at the Carta Bella Booth with our mid-year releases!

SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 TUESDAY EVENING
Find Your Lula
Park City, Utah
Visit this event’s site
I will be talking about being Carta Bella’s Creative Director and the in’s and out’s of scrapbooking.

SEPTEMBER 24, 2013 TUESDAY EVENING
Find Your Lula
Park City, Utah
Visit this event’s site
I will be talking about being Carta Bella’s Creative Director and the in’s and out’s of scrapbooking.

Upcoming Events—Come See Me! Read More »

Template Design Class Begins Next Monday!

Classes, Illustrator / carina

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind. Thankfully, all the sewing patterns were sent to production last week, and I’m well on my way with finishing Carta Bella’s summer releases. By the way, did you see our beach line Beach Boardwalk and our new Giddy Up lines? Serious awesomeness, if I do say so myself.

The sewing patterns you will see in the shop around May 15th. We should have information for retailers and distributors on the site this coming week. Thank you to those that have already emailed and called in for these new patterns! If you are a retailer and need access to the wholesaler site, please email Susan at susan@carinagardner.com. I am so excited by the response and hyped to show them at Quilt Market! We will have five new patterns—3 doll patterns and 2 beginner sewer patterns. I plan on incorporating the beginner sewing patterns in the Mom and Me Crafting Co. Class that Siri (my nine-year old) and I are teaching this summer. It’s going to be so fun!

Speaking of classes, it’s the last week to register for Template Design! I’m thrilled to be teaching a class like this since it incorporates a number of different techniques that I have never taught online before. I’m especially excited to be showing you how I create interesting shapes like banners and brackets. It’s so useful whether you are just making invited for your kids or making a logo. (FYI, image to the right from my instagram feed this last weekend.)

Will pop in soon with some sneaky peekys!

Carina

Template Design Class Begins Next Monday! Read More »

My First Class!

Illustrator, Quilt Market / carina

My first class on my new site starts today—Illustrator Basics CS6 Course 1. It’s a foundation course for all the design courses I plan on teaching. I’m so excited to have everyone in class! We are going to have a good time and I hope everyone learns a lot of Illustrator!

I myself have been working in Illustrator pretty intensively the last month. I am finishing up our five sewing patterns in the hopes of getting them to print by Wednesday so we get them for Quilt Market. If you follow the instagram feed, you’ve had a sneak peek into what I have been up to. Full reveal to come in a couple of weeks.

I’m also trying to finalize our June line for Carta Bella as well as finish our August and Christmas lines. A lot going on around here.

I also just preordered Evening Blooms for our shop. I was thrilled to design Riley Blake’s black and white line. I’m more thrilled to sew with it.

For now I’m enjoying all the sewing projects I have with Remember.

See you in class!

Carina

My First Class! Read More »

Digital Die Cutting Files

Digital Scrapbooking / carina

Heads up! Digital diecutting files are now available in the shop! At 75 cents a pop (or even less if you buy a bundle), these little goodies are easy to use and great for cards, scrapbooking, home decor or more! I include seven types of files to download: svg, ai, dxf, pdf, png, jpg, and studio. Use the file that works best with your machine for an fabulous paper or fabric shape!

Right now we are frame heavy in the shop, but we plan on having several freebies coming to the shop soon along with A LOT more designs. We are working through my more than 500 products to pull the best shapes !

I think you’ll love how intricate these shapes are! I made mine smaller on my Silhouette machine while testing them and they turned out beautifully! I plan on using these with some of my scrapbooking layouts in future.

Hope you get a chance to play with them!

Carina

Digital Die Cutting Files Read More »