Welcome to the Carol Harris Company web log - - our Blog. We will use this page to keep you up to date on all the happenings here. We'll still send our newsletter every month or so, but this is our way of keeping in touch with you two or three times a week.  You may click on the pictures for an enlarged view!
Friday April 4, 2008
We awakened to yet another dreary day here in west Tennessee, the perfect weather for finishing or starting a new sewing project and the newest seersuckers that we have just received make me yearn for sunny summer days. Molly Jane Taylor's Sunsuit would make up adorable smocked or unsmocked for a cool, refreshing outfit.
If you are ready to plan ahead for fall, we just received 5 new fabulous Liberty prints and will be getting some ideas up on the new arrivals for you soon.
The Strawberry and Red Pompom trim was such a big hit, we called and ordered 3 other colors, Red and Copen, Copen and Jade, and Royal and Nile. Copen and Jade is the perfect coordinate for the fish seersucker FF371 and the possibilities for the other two colors are endless. We look forward to seeing what some of you do with these wonderful trims.
Easter is now behind us and I know many were sewing down to the last minute trying to get everything finished. We have received many pictures and wanted to share some with you here. Kristen Benjamin sent pictures of her daughter Leah wearing one of Carol's Heirloom Legacy Dresses. Gates Fox looks like the angel I'm sure she is in her Lacy LuCinda made by mom Kelli. Susan Culverhouse sent photos of her daughter Merrill Ann. Lavender was a popular color this Easter and is certainly a pretty color on Merrill Ann. Cathy Odom sent photos of "grammy's" new arrival in his Easter outfit. We are certainly glad she has a new little one to sew and smock for. These moms did a great job. The looks on the girls faces show how pleased they were with their Easter finery.
We have also received photos of finished projects from the most recent Gail Doane school. Sarah Minton and Martha Broyles have sent pictures of their finished Jackets. Now all you other ladies from the class see it can be finished so get to work and get those pictures sent in.
Let us hear from you soon,
Lynn
March 17, 2008
Happy St. Patrick's Day! I hope everyone remembered to wear green!
We have had a bit of "the luck of the Irish" around here today. The FedEx driver just brought that huge box I've been looking for and I hope this translates into good news for you, too. As everyone knows, we've been searching high and low for an alternate to the German interfacing we used to stock but can no longer get. After much searching, I've found something I like even better and it carries a much more reasonable price tag. It is a very lightweight fusible woven tricot. You may be familiar with the knitted tricot that has been around for a few years; but our new find is woven. Before I invested in this huge roll of interfacing, I did seek the opinion of Gail Doane; and Gail gives this product an "A". Our new product, which we call "Fusible Baby-Facing", is a little harder to cut out as it wants to wiggle around a bit; but Gail and I agree that the finish this interfacing gives is worth the extra effort. This interfacing produces a very softly interfaced collar, placket, etc. that doesn't even feel as if interfacing has been used while giving the extra body needed to support buttonholes, piping, etc. In my humble opinion, it is perfect for childrenswear. To conquer the "wiggling", I suggest serrated scissors or a rotary cutter. Otherwise, handle "Fusible Baby-Facing" exactly like German interfacing; and I think you'll like the way it performs. "Fusible Baby-Facing" is 60" wide and $8.00/yard. For packages of 3 yards or more, the price drops to $6.75/yard.
We also have some exciting new European fabrics that have recently arrived with even more on the way. Watch our "florals" page and "New Arrivals" to see these. The new trims go great with the color schemes and mood of the new fabrics.
We have several photos to share with you today. Deborah Simpson sent us some photos of her darling granddaughter wearing an adorable dress that Deborah made for her. And Deborah has a brand new granddaughter! Deborah's "to-do" list is certainly growing.
Cissie Wellons, has completed 2 garments within the last week. I don't think I've ever seen anyone who could turn out quality as fast as Cissie. I am eternally grateful to Cissie, who makes so many Heirloom Legacy garments and makes them so beautifully.
Our accountant, Alison Isom, has 4 beautiful children. The last 2, twin girls, were born prematurely last fall. Alison manages to juggle a full-time job, new babies, 2 older children, and my feeble attempts at bookkeeping. I just don't know what I'd do without her. Aren't these children beautiful!
Hopefully, I'll have some wedding photos to share with you very soon. In the meantime, have a wonderful Easter!
Carol
February 22, 2008
It is cold here today but we dodged a major bullet! All we could hear yesterday from the National Weather Service was that an ice storm was on its way. Give me a snowstorm any day over ice accumulation, but ice is often what Southerners get instead of a beautiful blanket of snow. Snow is mighty pretty but I sure was glad to see dormant grass and a dry concrete driveway when I looked out the window this morning. It was also a tremendous relief to have a nice warm house.
Many of you know that my son, Chris, got married last Saturday. We are crazy about our new daughter-in-law, Pennye. Hopefully we'll have some wedding photos to share with you soon. Pennye has 2 beautiful daughters, Tara and Anne Barrett; and 2 adorable granddaughters, Hallie and Kate. We are proud and happy to welcome them into our family.
Our blogs have been rare of late, but we have been awfully busy. To complicate matters, the usual January viral ailments have plagued us; but we are about to get back on our feet.
We did purchase some beautiful things at Market and more is still on the way. Pictured are some of the buttons we bought. If any of these spark your interest, give us a call. We felt that you might like to see this photo of the collective group of buttons, rather than wade through the pages of buttons in the catalog section of the website.
Pictured here are just a few of the new fabrics we added to our collection. We bought a wide range which includes fun abstract prints, "ice cream" colored dotted swiss, and swiss faile in the most beautiful shade of green. The pictures just can't do them justice. Our imaginations are in overdrive with all the possibilities.
The latest issue of Inspirations is out, as is the March/April issue of Creative Needle. Both issues were filled with beautiful projects and ideas but I must offer a special compliment to Lillie McAnge. Her project in Creative Needle may be about the most beautiful little dress I have ever seen. It is truly fit for a princess. Another book that is new is Designer Smocking for Tots to Teens. Lynn chose a fabric combination that would be great for the garment on the cover. The Amy Butler novelty print with aqua pinpoint oxford coordinates perfectly. If you like this idea, give us a call. We can supply you with fabric and floss to make your own darling outfit.
We do have a couple of blog kits to offer that feature unusual buttons. We'll call the first one "Teddy Bear". We envision Creations by Michie' Knicker Yoke Overlay using white pique for the overlay, blue/blue mini-microcheck for the romper, and the cute little glass teddy bear buttons. Red baby rick-rack would be awfully cute on the lower edge of the overlay if only ½ of it peeks out, giving this garment just a touch of dash. The kit includes fabric, buttons, and rick rack for $33. The pattern, if you need it, is an additional $12.
The 2nd kit offering isn't so much a kit as it is a "garment to go". Adorable snail buttons combine perfectly with orange sunwashed chambray. This could be "Jeffrey" or "Amy" by Children's Corner. I also think that Collars, Etc. new "Mary Jane" or "Will" might be good choices to showcase the buttons with this fabric. The fabric, buttons, and floss combination is priced at $29.50. Give us a call if either of these just seems to call your name.
Hopefully we can get back in touch next week with more news and updated ideas. Many thanks to all of our loyal customers!
Sincerely,
Carol
Friday, February 1, 2008
After a wonderful three days with Gail Doane and a great group of women, we have been playing catch-up this week. Thirteen women converged on us last week for Gail's encore presentation of her Swiss Voile dress and Jacket and her sunflower top and wrap skirt. It was said that many new things were learned. The hotels in Dyersburg, Tennessee can become booked up... especially when every duck hunter in Tennessee goes after their prey. We also learned that your sewing machine still runs even if you sew with the foot control upside down! And last but not least, we answered the question of how quickly can three women buy three sewing machines without ever having seen them? The answer: about 15 minutes. I know they also walked away with a little of Gail's knowledge and inspiration.
Just in case you need a little more inspiration, we received pictures from one of the student's from Gail's November school. Wendy Steed sent us photos of her beautiful granddaughter wearing her white Swiss Voile dress and jacket. Wendy is not only a skilled seamstress but a very talented photographer. We expect to see many more finished projects from both the November class and the January class.
We have several new Heirloom Import prints and Liberty prints that we will be adding in the next few days. We also have a new book; Designer Smocking for Tots to Teens. We've had several calls for this book! We found some new Swiss pieces and beautiful new buttons while we were at market a couple of weeks ago so check back often as we will be adding these new items as they come in.
Carol's husband Mike had knee surgery on Thursday so remember him and Carol as she "nurses" him over the next few days.
We will be talking to you soon.
Lynn
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
I know it has been a while since you've heard from us, but the holidays are over and we are getting settled back into our normal routine. We had a wonderful Christmas with our family and rang the New Year in with good friends. One of the couples who visited with us on New Year's Eve, Leo and Tanya Arnold, will be traveling to Los Vegas the end of January to see their niece, Grace Arnold Gore, compete in the Miss America contest. Grace is a lovely young lady and we wish her the best!
We have had a couple of cancellations for the Gail Doane workshop later this month; so if you would like to attend this fabulous workshop, please give us a call right away. The Lillie McAnge Sewing Spa, scheduled for April 17-19 is filling up rapidly but we do have a few spots left. Lillie's beautiful projects, her skill, and her lovely demeanor make her workshops wonderfully memorable experiences. Last on the schedule, Claudia Newton is returning in June. We have still not chosen Claudia's class projects, so if you have a preference, please let us. Claudia, also, is a superb instructor with many beautiful projects from which to choose.
This little diaper shirt has been in our stash of vintage garments just waiting for the perfect fabric to come along for inspiration. Well, this adorable Scottie dog print mini microcheck arrived today and our creative juices started flowing. Based on the vintage garment, we came up with a diaper shirt with a gingham Scottie dog pocket appliquéd onto it and the print for the diaper cover. This kit includes pima lawn for the diaper shirt and lining for the print diaper cover, black mini micro for the appliqué and your choice of red or black mini micro for piping and bias binding, buttons, and the DMC floss are also included. Price for this kit is $31.00. Pattern add-ons include Ginger Snaps Designs Diaper Shirts 1 $12.00 or Diaper Covers book $16.00.
The second idea for the older child is using Children's Corner Gigi with the same concept as the diaper shirt with an appliquéd Scottie Dog pocket on the white broadcloth shirt and the print for the pants. This kit fits up to a size 7 and includes fabrics for the shirt, pants, the gingham in your choice of red or black for the piping and/or bias, cording, DMC floss, buttons, and elastic for $32.00. Pattern add-on $12.00.
We will include our pattern for the appliquéd Scottie Dog pocket when you order either kit. To place your order please call the store, our toll free number is 1-877-269-9419.
Lynn and I will be traveling to Market the end of next week, where we are sure to find plenty of new things to please you. We do have some beautiful inventory to kick off the New Year with so if you are ready to get started on a new project, give us a call or send us an e-mail. We'll be happy to help you.
Happy New Year,
Carol and Lynn
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
The weather has finally started getting a little cooler around here and it makes me want to curl up in front of a fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book, but who has time for that this close to Christmas. I'm sure all of you have your Christmas shopping and sewing done, I will still be sewing come Christmas Eve.
Kristie Gill shared photo's of her daughter Elizabeth's new fall dress. The smile on her face clearly says she is pleased with it and little girl's always have to test out the twirl factor of their new dresses. Kristie used Children's Corner pattern "Lee" with Cross-eyed Cricket "Sunflower Scarecrow" smocking plate. She used FF-chocolate microcheck for the dress with pique for the collar and cuffs piped in chocolate whipstitch piping.
The first blog kit for this week features one of our liberty feelers. For this kit I pulled Children's Corner "Adelaide" and some unusual buttons for the knife pleat on each shoulder. The Liberty Feeler for the collar and cuffs, piped in a light yellow, is perfect with the turquoise corduroy for one last cool weather dress. This kit includes the corduroy fabric and liberty feeler, Piping, buttons, and thread up to a size 6 for $42.00. Pattern add-on is Children's Corner "Adelaide" for $12.00. This kit is also available in a sage corduroy version paired with a Liberty Feeler.
The second kit for this week is taken from Children's Corner "Hattie". There is just enough of this Verona print for the piping, sash, and perhaps a ruffle on a blouse collar.
Again, I pulled some unusual buttons for down the front of the mini micro striped dress.
This kit includes the dress fabric, Verona print and buttons for up to a size 6 for $47.00. Pattern add-on is Children's Corner "Hattie" for $12.00
These kits are all one of a kind kits so don't hesitate to call and order if you see one you like, our toll free number is 1-877-269-9419.
If you haven't seen the newsletter yet we are having a sale that will run through midnight Dec. 19th. This is a storewide sale with only the printed lawns excluded. Velveteen and Corduroy are 50% off, Seersucker, Pique and Knit are 40% off, Pinpoint Oxford is 30% off. Everything else storewide is 20% off excluding the printed lawns. Sale is limited to in stock merchandise and there is a 2 yard minimum cut on all fabric, lace and trims. The shopping cart will not calculate the sale, we will refund your credit card once we have your order ready to ship and you will be charged actual shipping based on the weight of your order.
Hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season!
Carol and Lynn
November 24, 2007
We woke up to some fairly cold weather this morning so those leaves may not hold on much longer. They are usually completely gone by Thanksgiving but this year has surely been the exception in terms of our weather. The view you see here is looking out the window above my kitchen sink.
As you can see, I am quite the Country Bumpkin (west Tennessee version). If you look closely you may see the black cows in the distance and the pinkish eastern skies leftover from sunrise. The reddish building toward the right of the photo is the smokehouse my father built many years ago. My boys remember planting every one of these trees. We just use the smokehouse for storage now but I can remember going in and seeing hams hanging from hooks in the process of being "cured". When the hams were ripe, my father would save one or two for us and then have fun giving the rest to his friends for Christmas. I haven't had the time or inclination to rake any leaves yet but when you live on a farm, the neighbors don't mind.
Kristen Benjamin shared the most adorable photo of her little girl wearing Kristen's own interpretation of a blog kit she purchased from us. The Benjamin family recently moved from Memphis to the cold northern US. It was a whole new experience for them to see snow on Thanksgiving! Here in the mid-south, we might get a little snow (or more commonly, ice) in January, but it is pretty rare any other time. Thanks to Kristen for sharing her beautiful child's photo.
I couldn't resist adding a photo of the famous "Squirt". He is on constant vigil against what he might regard as trespassers and not so much as a bird invading our airspace escapes him. He doesn't know it yet, but he is about to embark on a diet. We've had some construction going on around here and he has continuously conned the workers out of their snacks and lunches. Our addition is almost finished and his life is about to change!
The first 2 blog ideas are working with red and green so please be patient with our photography. Those colors are very difficult to photograph, post on a website, and have a correct interpretation of the color. Please bear with us - if you can't see anything that would tempt you, chances are you really need for us to send you a swatch.
The first photo features one of my favorite fabrics - Liberty of London. We have 1-yard left of this particular Liberty print; and it is just perfect with the dark green 21-wale corduroy. The tartan ribbon provides a little extra pizzazz for this print and corduroy combination. One of the views on "Kayla" by Bonnie Blue designs shows a jumper with ribbon bows trimming the pockets. Adding a long sleeved "Lettie" by Children's Corner blouse would look great with a corduroy jumper. I can just see this adorable Liberty blouse under that smart-looking jumper going lots of places during the holiday season and beyond. If this idea speaks to you, call us right away and we can price a kit based on the yardage you actually need.
While I had the dark green corduroy out and also had red on my mind, I thought of this red tartan and some really cute antique brass buttons with ducks on them. Well, one thought generally leads to another and I got to thinking about all the little brothers who really would like something made for them too. The new jacket pattern from Children's Corner is just the solution. It is a really nice jacket with a hood, and corduroy is a wonderful choice for this jacket. I'd suggest making the jacket with the green corduroy, lining it with the tartan, and fastening it with those cute buttons. Again, if the colors don't look right (and the tartan seems to be the worst offender in this photo), don't hesitate to ask us to send a swatch. This could really be a nice ensemble for a little boy. Adding a "Jeffrey" made from the corduroy could really make this outfit work for Sunday School. The jacket could also go to school over a pair of jeans and a turtleneck.
Stay safe while you are out shopping this holiday season; and check back soon for an update from the goings on at CHC!
Carol
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
The weather here is absolutely beautiful - warmer than is seasonal for Thanksgiving week, but beautiful nonetheless. West Tennessee's crops and landscape suffered terribly from the drought during the summer, but the rain that did come in the early fall resulted in some of the most stunning fall foliage we've seen in years.
I guess most of you are either cooking or traveling. I'm cooking! Our holiday celebrations are a shared effort with our in-laws, Randy and Shea Harris, who alternate with Mike and me in hosting the holiday feasts. This year we will have Thanksgiving dinner at their home and Christmas dinner at ours, but we always share the responsibility of preparing the food for our rather large group, which includes plenty of men and adolescent boys with good appetites. The following recipe is one of the new ones (new to me, at any rate) I'll be preparing this year. My friend, Becky Hamilton, shared this with me and it is mighty tasty.
Cranberry Apple Delight
2 cups fresh cranberries (or more)
3 cups chopped Granny Smith apples (don't peel)
Mix together 2 T. self-rising flour and 1 cup sugar and coat fruit with this mixture.
4 packages maple brown sugar oatmeal
¾ cup chopped pecans (optional)
½ cup self-rising flour
½ cup dark brown sugar
1 stick + 2 T. butter
Mix together and crumble over fruit.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
If you happen to be traveling through and would like to stop by the Bricks and Mortar store, please give me a call. We don't usually keep regular store hours over the holidays, but I do plan to be in town so I am happy to arrange a convenient time for travelers to come by. We'll be back in the regular swing of things come Monday, the 26th. For those of you who shop via internet and e-mail, we continue to be available 24/7/365.
As I pause to think about the things I am thankful for in this season that is rich with the history of our nation, all of you are on my list. Thank you for the time you spend visiting my on-line store, reading my blog, sending e-mails and photos, and for being my friends. The communication you have shared and the business you have transacted with us is very much valued and we look forward to a continued wonderful relationship with all of you. I wish you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
Carol
Monday, November 13, 2007
We have finally caught up on all the orders from the sale, thank you to everyone who took advantage of the great prices.
Last week, we also had the honor of having Gail Doane and a great group of ladies in town for a fun 3 days of sewing, shopping and a lot of laughter. The ladies even stayed well into the night a couple of days. As always, Gail is a very organized and focused instructor and we look forward to her return trip in January 2008.
Today's blog kit is inspired by Kristen Benjamin's version of the new Children's Corner pattern "GiGi" that she made for her adorable little girl Leah. We paired up the Chocolate Corduroy with our newest twill FF422. 
The kit includes the twill and corduroy fabric, grograin ribbon for the pants, elastic, buttons, piping for collar, and thread to match. The cost of the kit is $31.00 for sizes 1-3 or $36.00 for sizes 4-8.
We have lots of new Amy Butler novelty prints we will be getting up on the novelty page soon, so keep watching for those. Hope your holiday sewing projects are well under way and have a great day.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Due to the tremendous response to our sale, we will not have a blog or a blog kit until later in the week. The sale will end Wednesday, October 31, at midnight, CST. There are still lots of great bargains, so hurry before it's too late.
Friday, October 26, 2007
If you get our newsletter, you may already know the good news, but if you don't here it is: We're having a HUGE SALE! This sale includes corduroy and velveteen, plaid, pique, seersucker and knits, as well as lots of Swiss fabrics and Swiss laces. All the particulars are listed below. The sale begins today, so hurry and place your order for the best selection. As you know, Swiss fabrics and laces are hardly ever on sale, so this is a fabulous opportunity to stock up on some of your favorite items.
- Corduroy and Velveteen - 30% off
- Bearissima I, Bearissima II, Swiss Voile Stripe and Silky Cotton - 20% off
- The remainder of the Swiss pages are 30% off with the following exceptions: Swiss voile, Swiss flannel and dotted Swiss
- Swiss Lace - White, Ecru, Ivory and White with Color - 20% off
- Plaid (anything on the two plaid pages of the website) - 40% off
- Knit - 40% off
- Seersucker and Pique - 40% off
This sale is first-come, first-served, and we will take the discount off and refund it back to your credit card when we ship your order. Quantities are limited to stock on hand, and due to the huge volume expected, we will not be able to e-mail you to offer substitutions. We will fill your order as completely as possible and will assume that you will accept whatever quantity we have on hand. Any amount we are not able to fill will, of course, be refunded back to your credit card.
Remember me telling you how yesterday's blog kit reminded me of a coat that Carrie Beth had years ago? Well, I still have it, and here's a photo. I thought it was such a cute coat. Of course, it's not exactly the same pattern, but you get the idea. I did it in pastels, but you could choose any three coordinating colors. How about primary colors-red, navy and slicker? Now that corduroy is on sale, we will offer this blog kit at 30% off, so hurry before all the good colors are gone.
Have a great day and let us hear from you soon.
Dana
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
It's been gray and rainy all week here, but we have been working on brightening up the store and getting ready for Gail Doane's workshop in a couple of weeks. If you're lucky enough to be attending one of our upcoming workshops, you are in for a real treat.
The photos Kristie Gill sent brightened our day. Her daughter Elizabeth is modeling her new Cinderella dress, and look how it twirls! Kristie used Children's Corner Lee with a Bessie sleeve and smocked it on a soft pink twill.
We had a nice surprise last Friday afternoon when Carol's granddaughter Bailey came by to model her new clothes. Bailey's jumper is the new Mary Jane jumper by Collars, Etc. in a blue and red plaid smocked with a portion of "Encyclopedia BearTanica" by Little Memories. Her plaid top is Amy by Kay Guiles and is smocked with "Not So Scared Crows" by little Memories. Notice her jeans embroidered with corn stalks and pumpkins. The aqua and brown outfit is an Amy pinpoint top with Zara corduroy pants made using Children's Corner Charlotte. The Zara corduroy is no longer available, but if you like this idea, we'll be glad to come up with some substitutions. You can purchase kits for any of these outfits by calling 877-269-9419.
We have some great news-we have been able to secure more of the fabulous milk chocolate corduroy and scarlet corduroy. We had been told that our supplier did not have any more, but when they found these extra bolts, we were thrilled to get them. Many of you have been disappointed that these two popular colors sold out so quickly. Also, we have a great new pink and brown floral which coordinates beautifully with the milk chocolate corduroy.
The new Children's Corner patterns are proving to be very popular. Did you notice that the model on the front of the Gigi pattern is wearing pants made from our Liberty Caesar fabric? Don't they look fantastic! These pants could easily be lined with our cozy cashmere cotton flannel for extra warmth.
Last week's blog kit featuring the Gigi pattern was a hit, so this week, we'll give you an idea for the new Casey jacket pattern. This pattern reminds me a lot of a coat that Carrie Beth had when she was in first grade. I made hers out of corduroy and color blocked it using pink, yellow and blue corduroy. You could do the same with this pattern, or you could make the jacket a solid color and line it with our cute "The Cow Says Moo" print. Pants made from the same print would be adorable. The kit for a solid color jacket (your choice of pink, yellow or blue corduroy) lined with the print fabric is $34.00 for sizes six months-3 and $45.00 for sizes 4-8. This kit includes fabric, lining, thread and buttons for the jacket only. Order extra fabric if you want to make coordinating pants. The pattern is $12.00. If you want to make a color blocked jacket, call for pricing info.
I found this beautiful Liberty floral while rummaging through our Liberty "Lucky Picks". Since it goes so well with the dark raspberry corduroy, I think it would make a beautiful Lettie Blouse under a Louise corduroy jumper. A touch of ecru Swiss embroidery at the collar and cuffs would be just the thing for this simple but elegant blouse. This would be a great choice for a holiday outfit that can be made quickly. The kit will fit up to size 6 and includes blouse and jumper fabrics, Swiss edging, buttons and thread. Kit price is $70.00, and the patterns can be added for $12.00 each.
It seems like October has just flown by. We hope you're getting lots of sewing done and are seriously thinking about holiday sewing. It'll be here before we know it.
Have a great day and let us hear from you soon.
Dana
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
They're finally here! The long-awaited new patterns from Children's Corner arrived today, and they are adorable. Gigi is a top and pants for girls in sizes 1-4 or 5-8. Carol saw this made up at market and has been raving about how cute it is. Casey is a cozy hooded jacket for girls or boys in sizes 6 months-3 or 4-8. Both are perfect for the cooler weather we'll be having soon. We also have new patterns from Creations by Michie, and a new super-easy pants pattern, Britches and Bloomers, for infants and toddlers.
We're also excited about our new line of fabrics from Amy Butler. These large-scale, medium-weight prints are just the right thing to make purses, lightweight luggage, and even dog beds. Everyone is into making accessories these days, and any teenager or young adult would be excited to get a gift made from one or more of these bright new prints. Try mixing and matching several prints in one project. The possibilities are endless. We've ordered in some new Kwik Sew patterns to give you ideas. These fabrics will be posted on the Novelty page soon... keep watching the blog for updates.
Also new this week are some gorgeous porcelain buttons. We think these buttons could be used lots of places (see the blog kit below). Who wouldn't love the kitty and puppy buttons?
Today's first blog kit uses the new Children's Corner Gigi for a dressed-up pants outfit. This would be great for all those holiday functions coming up. The brown velveteen pants (totally washable) are accented with beautiful pink and blue paisley patterned ribbon, and the pink pinpoint blouse has etched smoky pearl buttons. The kit includes velveteen, ribbon, pinpoint, buttons and thread. Size 1-4 is $48.00, and size 5-8 is $53.00. The pattern can be added for $12.00.
The second blog kit is planned around our new porcelain buttons. A simple apron like Jenni Leigh from Children's Corner in sage micro check is just the thing to show off the oak leaf porcelain buttons. Add a self-fabric ruffle on the collar, tack a couple of tiny acorn porcelain buttons on the pocket flap, and you have a sweet and simple fall dress. The kit will fit up to size 4 and includes micro check fabric, 6 oak leaf porcelain buttons, 3 acorn porcelain buttons, and thread. The cost of the kit is $64.00, and the pattern can be added for $12.00.
Thanks for all your calls and notes during Carol's loss. Every expression of sympathy is truly appreciated.
Carol Harris Company
Monday, October 15, 2007
Carol's mother, Mrs. Sarah Clark, passed away Sunday morning after a long illness. We sincerely appreciate all your thoughts and prayers during these last few weeks and ask that you continue to remember Carol and her family.
The store will be closed today, but will re-open Tuesday morning at 10:00. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Carol Harris Company
Monday, October 8, 2007
If you have the day off today, we hope you're enjoying it. We're still having beautiful Indian summer weather here, but the days are definitely getting shorter.
It's hard to believe that Gail Doane will be here in less than a month. Gail is such a wonderful teacher, and her students are never disappointed. In fact, several of the participants we're expecting are taking Gail's class for the second or third time. We still have room for a couple of more students in the November class, but the January class is full.
Also, don't forget about our classes with Lillie McAnge and Claudia Newton. Lillie will be here April 19-21, 2008, for our Spa Getaway Weekend. The project will be a lovely heirloom nightgown. Claudia will be here June 12-14, 2008. We're not sure what her project will be, but we know from experience that it will be spectacular.
For today's blog kit, we offer a timeless basic yoke dress in a very autumn-y Verona print with a corduroy collar and cuffs. We like Collars, Etc.'s Yoke Dress view 5. The sage corduroy has been very popular this fall, and it's just the right accent for the Verona floral print in shards of gold and russet. There will be plenty of occasions to wear this classic dress-Thanksgiving is just around the corner. The kit includes floral print fabric, corduroy, thread and buttons. Size 1-4 is $45.00, and size 5-8 is $55.00. The pattern can be added for $12.00. Call or e-mail to purchase the kit.
Please continue to remember Carol's mother, Mrs. Sarah Clark. She remains very ill and is under hospice care at her home. I know Carol sincerely appreciates all your thoughts and prayers.
Have a great day and let us hear from you soon.
Dana
Monday, October 1, 2007
We got some more great fabrics in over the weekend. I especially like the cherry print fine-wale corduroy. It's great for jumpers and fall pants. The little bird and chick prints and the pink toile found on the novelty page are also very cute.
We have new patterns from Bonnie Blue, Gingersnaps and Pintucks and Petticoats. We're still anxiously awaiting the two new patterns from Children's Corner.
Bettye Logan sent these photos of her most recent projects-a bishop and a bonnet for the granddaughters of two close friends.
It's definitely not too early to start thinking about Christmas outfits. Lots of people have their Christmas card photos made in October, so it's time to get moving. We also hear lots of people say that they hate to put so much work into something that can only be worn one month of the year. They like to do something that looks festive yet not too Christmas-y. Our blog kit today fills the bill nicely. The Toddler Smocked Apron by Collars, Etc. is one of our all-time favorite patterns, and Swiss flannel is perfect for winter in the South (or anywhere) because it's not too heavy. If you've never smocked on Swiss flannel, prepare to be wowed-it's a joy. We love the combination of pink smocking (Lorrie by Ellen McCarn) on pink Swiss flannel. Add a touch of Maline lace on the collar, and this dress is festive enough for any holiday event, but will still be wearable after the holidays. The $60.00 kit fits up to a size 4 and includes fabric, lace, plate, floss, buttons and thread. The pattern is available for $9.00.
This lovely young woman is Carrie Beth Branch, Dana's daughter. Carrie Beth was crowned homecoming queen at Crockett County High School Friday night. We've watched Carrie Beth go from a sweet little girl happily showing off her mother's smocked dresses to this poised, confident young lady. We're all very proud of her.
Please keep my mother, Sarah Clark, in your prayers. She is not doing well this week.
Have a great day and let us hear from you soon.
Carol
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
It's a rainy day here, but sometimes those are the best for getting lots accomplished. We sure do need the rain, but I could do without all the thunder and lightening.
We got the cutest photos today from Emily Brown. Don't the kids look adorable in their new fall outfits? Emily is indeed fortunate to have her grandmother, Margie Vaughn, to sew for her three children, Kizer, Katibeth and Kannon. Katibeth is wearing a bishop, and Kannon is wearing Jordan by Maja's Heirlooms, both made from orange tiny micro check and smocked with a plate in a Sew Beautiful magazine.
Sarah Minton also sent photos of her latest projects. She made rompers for a set of twins using Primrose Lane Michaela for the girl's version and a Wendy Schoen pattern for the boy's version. Sarah had to get creative on the girl's sleeve because she was using leftover fabric and didn't have quite enough, but sometimes that's where the best ideas originate. Sarah also made a shirt for her trumpet-playing grandson Ian using a "jazzy" fabric. Look close to see the trumpets printed on the fabric.
 We also have another Cissie Wellons adaptation from the new Children's Corner Idea Book to show you. For this one, Cissie used Adelaide and made slight changes to the Kathy/Kelly collar.
We had a visit from some of our friends in St. Louis last Saturday. These ladies had a wonderful time, and we enjoyed them very much. If your guild or sewing group would like to visit, please call us to arrange a time. We'd love to see you.
Today's blog kit features Maja Clayton's new smocking plate "Stick Figures at Play". This would look great smocked on a white insert and paired with the turquoise brushed hound's-tooth using Paige by Pitter Patter. Black piping trims the top and bottom of the insert. The kit includes fabric, plate, DMC, pre-pleated insert, piping, buttons and thread. Size 1-5 is $55.00, and size 6-12 is $63.00. The pattern can be added for $12.00.
We still have a couple of spots left for Gail Doane's November and January classes. If you've been thinking of signing up for one of these classes, now is the time to act. Call or e-mail for more information.
Have a great day, and let us hear from you soon.
Dana
Monday, September 24, 2007
New merchandise continues to arrive every day. This week we received new patterns from Pintucks and Petticoats and a new smocked sundress and jumper pattern from Ginger Snaps Designs. We also have lots of new decorative ribbons and colored tatting-type trim. And, we got the cutest new print fabrics with dogs and horses. If you're an animal lover like we are, you will love these. They would make great jumpers for kids or lounging pants for older kids and adults.
Lezette Thomason of the Children's Corner has come out with a line of pre-cut, pre-fused appliqués for children's garments. We've had a trunk show of some of these finished garments in the store this week, and they are a confirmed hit with everyone. The kits include all the appliqué pieces, as well as directions for any necessary construction changes or pattern adaptations. Some of the precious designs include, dogs, cats, sheep, giraffes, chicks, snowman, reindeer and Christmas cat.
Cissie Wellons has been busy making outfits using the adaptations from Children's Corner's new book of ideas. She has some great advice, so we'll pass it along. Watch for more tips from Cissie next week.
"I have just finished these fall outfits for Eliza. The first is one of the variations on the Children's Corner book. If anyone is interested in trying this, let me offer a couple of tips. First, after changing the pattern per the instructions and reassembling the Lucy front, I found that the lining fit poorly. In a perfect world, this would not happen! But even being a smidgen off made a difference in the way the lining fit and hung. The second time around, I cut the lining using the altered front and back as my guides. Also, don't forget to add extra length. Since this variation of Lucy has 2 separate hems, you will need at least an extra 1 1/2". Did I find out these things due to reading and thinking before sewing or did I have to waste fabric and time redoing the darn thing? I'll let you guess! But I really like it and will try it again -- this time I might engage my brain first! The fabric is Zara corduroy with an aqua Pima gingham for the contrasting pleat and corded piping. It is lined in a brown microcheck." (We're sorry, but the Zara corduroy is sold out, but call us for suggestions)
"This is a Kwik Sew corduroy skirt with Liberty's Richard Brown print
for the "Lettie" blouse. Please note the matching Liberty headband! I find that bias strips folded in half cover the plastic headbands smoother and tighter than ribbon. I am afraid that the fabric did not photograph well but I love the colors -- brown, tan, pale yellow, aqua, light mint. One word of warning -- once you sew with Liberty fabric, it is hard to go back!!! It feels like silk!"
We've got two great blog kits today! First off, we've paired the last of the Herby Lavender Liberty with our new sage corduroy. For the patterns, Grace Knott's Tunic Blouse and Children's Corner Abbie Pants are a winning team. The kit includes Liberty fabric for the blouse, corduroy for the pants, ivory Swiss trim for the collar, buttons and thread and will fit up to size 6. The kit price is $63.00, the Tunic Blouse pattern is $7.00, and the Abbie pattern is $12.00.
Our second blog kit gives you a creative way to wear Liberty in winter. Why not make pants out of Liberty and line them with a cozy cashmere cotton flannel? We love this Dominick's Sketch Book Liberty paired with the light turquoise pinpoint for a Lettie or Abbie blouse. Notice the creative button assortment on the blouse. The $75.00 kit includes Liberty and cashmere cotton flannel for the pants and pinpoint for the top, buttons and thread and will fit up to size 8. Add either of the patterns for $12.00. Call or e-mail to order either of these great kits.
We're contemplating having "Sit and Sew" hours here in the store a few days a month. If you're a local customer, we would like your input on this. Would you enjoy getting together once or twice a month with other stitchers? Call or e-mail to let us know your thoughts on this. This would not be structured like a guild, but more of just a place to gather and sew. We think it sounds like lots of fun.
Have a great day and let us hear from you soon.
Monday, September 17, 2007
It's just like Christmas around here with all the new merchandise arriving every day. Carol's trip to market was very productive. We're adding lots of new French and Swiss laces. We also got the cutest new flannel prints today. These fun printed flannels are perfect for baby blankets and are very reasonably priced. Also, check out the new decorative ribbons and colored tatting.
Bear Threads has unearthed one last bolt of the embroidered Swiss insertion used on Carol's Heirloom Legacy dress "Sarah" from the November/December, 2006, issue of Creative Needle. This beautiful Swiss handloom is the last of its kind, and we have enough to fill a few more kit orders. To order the kit, visit Creative Needle's website by Clicking Here. (I hope the lady who called last week asking about this insertion is a blog reader.)
We have a brand new supply of the new Children's Corner Idea book. This book has sold very well. It has lots of creative ways to use those Children's Corner patterns that you probably already own.
Mary Thorpe shared a photo of her grandson Thorpe's first birthday. What a cute idea for a party theme, and the invitations are precious. Thorpe got into the spirit with his smocked monkey overalls.
Kelli Fox sent a photo of her completed corduroy Mary Jane jumper with a blouse made from one of the Tiffany lawn prints. (Lisa, photo here) This is part of a whole ensemble that Kelli is doing for Gates. There will also be a Dottie's Day Dress out of the print and a cropped jacket out of the corduroy. I think the jumper and blouse are adorable. Notice her creative use of tiny buttons.
Kelli also sent a photo Victor and Gates' first day of school. If you're a regular blog reader, you will remember that Kelli had to make Gates a second first day of school dress because Gates wanted pink instead of purple. According to Gates, "Pink is Perfect", and although you can't see it in the photos, that quote was embroidered on the back of her matching panties.
Today's blog kit uses our new sage corduroy and one of our Liberty feelers. Libby by Children's Corner is a great jumper for fall, and we love the version with the side-tied sash made from the Liberty print. Use the dusty rose piping for accent around the sash box. This would be great with a dusty rose or ivory turtleneck. The kit includes corduroy, Liberty feeler, piping, thread and buttons. The size 1-4 kit is $38.00, and the size 5-8 kit is $45.00. The Libby pattern is $12.00. Call or e-mail to order this great fall kit, and you can have it made before the weather turns cold.
We've got lots more new stuff to tell you about later in the week. Stay tuned for all the latest goodies from Carol's trip to market. Don't forget that our free shipping special ends Saturday night. We are offering free shipping on all orders of $50.00 or more shipped anywhere in the continental United States. If you didn't know about this offer, you haven't signed up for our newsletter. To make sure you don't miss any important news or sale information, add your e-mail address to our Mailing List today.
Have a great day, and let us hear from you soon.
Dana
Monday, September 10, 2007
Carol is on her way back from market with lots of new things! She is excited about the two absolutely adorable new patterns that Children's Corner is coming out with very soon. As soon as we get them, we'll post photos on the blog. Carol also bought new print fabrics and lots of other items. We also just got in some new velveteens-black, sailor blue, and a rich chocolate brown. Watch the blog this week for all this and more.
For the blog kits today, we're thinking fall. This unusual khaki colored micro check would make a sweet bishop or yoke dress smocked with Little Memories' "Rain, Rain, Go Away." The $30.00 kit includes enough fabric for up to a size 4 of either style dress, plate, floss, and sewing thread.  Or, how about a Children's Corner Madeline in this striking red and black combination. The kit includes red/black pindot pique, black corduroy for the collar, thread and unique square buttons. It will fit up to size 4, and the cost is $35.00.
Sorry the blog is so short today. Mondays are always busy around here. Don't forget to keep sending us your photos. We love hearing from you.
Have a great day!
Dana
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Besides the emu story of last week, I have more animal stories to share. Those of you who know me have heard about my dog, Squirt. Squirt, a 4 year old rat terrier, is a 14 pound canine version of Dennis the Menace. The tales on Squirt is the stuff for books. My manicurist thinks he should have his own reality TV show and when I tell you of his most recent escapades, you may agree.
We are building an addition to our house and things are pretty far along. Far enough that the painter was there last Tuesday putting primer on the walls. Mike (my husband) had gone home to let Squirt out and got involved in a conversation with the painter. When he got ready to go back to work, he called and called for Squirt - but Squirt didn't come. Mike finally just asked the painter to let Squirt back into the house when he showed up, thinking Squirt had probably just gone next door for a little attention and a treat. When the painter went back into the addition, he heard Squirt whining and scratching IN THE WALL! Squirt had trotted up the attic steps and had fallen through an opening in the unfinished stairway into a space between the wall and the stairway. He was wedged at about the 3rd tread from the bottom. The painter called Mike back home and they had to tear out a sheet rock wall on one side and tear out the attic stairs on the other side of the wall to get him out. Miraculously, Squirt is just fine but we have significant repairs to make to the brand new addition.
All of the workers like Squirt and they enjoy having him around when they are working, so we allowed him to stay outside with them on Thursday while we were at work. Squirt was barking furiously in our garage for such a long time they finally decided to see what was going on, thinking it was probably just a frog. When they went to see, they beheld a skunk cornered behind a freezer that sits in our garage. Then the quest was to get Squirt to abandon his efforts toward the skunk so hopefully the skunk wouldn't fill the air with what skunks do best. Squirt was adamant that he had laid claim to the skunk and he wasn't going anywhere. From what they said, Squirt was a regular little samurai and fought off everyone (including a much larger dog) who tried to get him to back down. Squirt finally just got so tired he had to give up. None of us wanted to go back home for fear the skunk would spray so I called a gentleman from Martin, TN. called the "Critter Getter" who came and managed to get the skunk captured and carried away without upsetting it enough to cause us to wish the house would burn. I know those of you who live "in town" may not identify with us "country mice", but skunks are fairly common sights out on the farm.
After both of those incidents, I figured I deserved a weekend away so we took Squirt to the Nauvoo Pet Resort for the weekend. I'm hoping he is thinking about some of the things he got into and vowing that he'll do better this week! Our getaway was to Heber Springs, Arkansas. We stayed at the Red Apple Inn, a very sentimental place for us as that is where we spent our honeymoon. Saturday took us to Little Rock on a visit to an antique dealer who has supplied us with many goodies over the years. My husband collects World War II items, vintage toys, and marbles while I, as you might imagine, collect vintage textiles and baby items. This time I was able to get several items that were very interesting to me. The items pictured here are samplers. Since you may not be able to see the detail, the small framed sampler is mainly buttonholes and the large framed sampler includes tucks, drawnwork, plackets, eyelets, thread loops, and many more techniques. Mounted on the green mat board is a sampler of whitework techniques. I guess I could use the old cliche' "a good time was had by all" as my husband bought some things to add to his collection also. We had a great time overall but it is always nice to get back home and back to work. And it is surely nice to get our little dog back home also.
The blog kit today features the precious rosebud Liberty that I think would make a beautiful Christmas dress. The red corduroy shown is for collar and cuffs. For $85 you get the Liberty, corduroy, floss, thread, and buttons for a basic smocked yoke dress up to size 4. We'll throw in the pattern at no additional charge, which contains a great geometric smocking design.
Have a great week. I'm sure hoping Squirt won't get into anything too major this week.
Carol
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