"M" is for Magic

     "M" truly is for Magic.  It has been a while since last blogging.  I recently changed my occupation and so far it has been satisfying.   I actually enjoy going to work............to me that is magic. 

      So, what is all this magic about?!  About a month ago, I volunteered for our weekly Story time, since my co-worker had a conference. (background) I have never worked with children in my life, and have never done a story time, so I asked my co-worker what I should do..........Her reply was, "It is your story time, you do what you want."     Well, it didn't take long for the wheels to spin in my mind and a production is what I wanted.  

      The letter I chose was "M" for magic.  I found three incredible easy to read magic books (My favorite is The Magic Hat), and of course I would be a magician.   Every magician needs a cape so I decided to sew one up along with a magic hat. Besides, living in New Orleans believe it or not a woman needs a cape in a her closet!

      For the cape I chose Simplicity 1294 Pattern A.  Fabric:  Crepe back satin from JoAnn Fabric.

       I made a few adjustments to the pattern.  Instead of using gross grain ribbon for the front ties,  I cut  a 2 inch strip of my fabric, folded with right sides together and made my own ties. I used my handy dandy tube turner for this and all went well.  I did use a beautiful 2 1/2" trim for the collar (not venetian lace) and I omitted the feathers along the front.   I was able to sew the cape together in one day.  What took the most time was the 5/8" hem all around......which really wasn't that bad.

       For the hat I chose Simplicity 8361 View B. 

       Now, I did have to make some changes to the pattern  for my magic trick: which I pulled a bunny out of the hat.  Basically, I followed the sewing directions and once completed,  I added a second lining with a small opening. The bunny laid in-between the original lining and the second one.  When I showed the children the inside of the hat, with no bunny, I made sure the opening was covered by my hand, and then when it came time to pull the bunny out,  the inside of the hat faced me.  All they saw was no bunny and then a bunny. The children were over joyed and one said........."she really knows magic".  It was hilarious and fun.  Of course they helped me by saying the magic word, Abracadabra.

       Check out the photo collage: 

        Oh, I did want to share this little wool needle felted Minnie Mouse I made for my co-worker.  I forget how I found out about wool felting but as soon as I saw little animals wool felted on the internet, I decided I must do this.   Anyway, Minnie Mouse is only about 2 1/2" inches tall.  I found the teacup from a flea market, and  sewed her little skirt and bow. Also, I used pipe cleaners for the body so her arms and legs are moveable.   Enjoy!