Doodlebug Dezigns@bellsouth.net

I am moving!!!

2010-10-17T21:07:00.002-05:00

Some of you may already know that I was the recipient of a fabulous prize via a Facebook giveaway from Wacky Jacqui's Blog Design....a total blog makeover! I was so excited that night that I could not sleep! I decided to go with a totally new blog (i know, i know kind of weird, but hey!) So here we are just a little time later! My new blog is up and running and I would like to ask my followers to scoot over and join me there! I hope you will like the fresh new look and if you need a blog makeover reach out to Jacqui!! I love everything about the new look and she did a fabulous job taking my crazy ideas and making them in to exactly what I pictured!!!

I hope to start transferring a lot of the old pics to the new blog slowly but surely!

The new blog address is

www.lovelifeandstitches.blogspot.com

Before I forget to blog again!

2010-09-17T11:03:00.002-05:00

Of course another week has flown by without me! Well, not really! I have contributed a lot!!

Ever wonder what to do with your daughter's blue jeans from last year? You know the ones that still fit in the waist (thanks in large part to the invention of adjustable waist) but are 2 inches too short!! Well...you bring them to me for some "Love & Stitches" of course!

This shirt and the jeans below are for a friend of Bailey's. Her family is having some portraits made and Mom wanted something cute and fun for the 2 daughters to wear.

Little sister had to have a dress with bows on the shoulder! I think the girls will match just enough!

And here is some more Fall cuteness! This client wanted something kind of for Halloween but not all spooky! I think this will work for the whole season!!!

Tattle-Tale Thursday Third Time's a Charm!

2010-09-09T08:40:00.002-05:00

yes, I know, last Thursday sort of flew by me before I even knew it! But in my defense I had several large orders come in all at the same time! Orders for such cute stuff and I can not wait to share.

Just to list a few:

- Baby Gifts
- 2 darling outfits for family portraits
- More cute ruffle pants for Fall, Halloween, & Christmas!

So without further ado (is that how you spell that fancy word?) Let's get with it. Here are the directions and rules! Don't forget to follow other bloggers! Oh yeah, last time we had 4 links....do I hear 5 or 6 this time? I know we can do it if you tell all your bloggie peeps to help me out!!

Are you ready for some football?!?!?!

2010-09-07T22:09:00.003-05:00

We have enjoyed some milder temps and definitely cooler nights! This time of year is always so welcome! Shawn has been anxiously awaiting this time of year since..well since like May! For him it doesn't have as much to do with cooler weather as it does the start of College Football season! I love football season too!!! Our house is divided..The girls and I are Auburn fans while Shawn and Caden are dedicated to Alabama.

The kids like to wear something football to school on Friday's during the season! A couple of weeks back I found a pair of capris in Bailey's size at the secondhand store for $1.61!!!!! I knew they would be perfect for what I had in mind.

I have also had a few requests for gifts in various colors!! Like this onesie...

And these baby bloomers!!!

And while I prefer orange and blue I think this outfit turned out very cute!

Happy Fall Ya'll!!!

2010-08-31T20:03:00.002-05:00

I think for most of us down here in the South, we are excitedly anticipating Fall! Don't get me wrong, I love almost everything about summer! Swimming, grilling, camping, swimming, being outside, etc...However, even I am ready for some milder temps! Not to mention all the things I love about fall..camping, campfires, grilling, being outside, no mosquitos, well, you get the idea. I think there is a pattern for us!!! We love to camp no matter the season!

With all that being said I am super excited to get started on some Fall and other seasonal items! Ms. Matti is going to be a hit from September through Halloween in this little number! I absolutely love making these ruffle leg pants! They are so versatile...from casual to dress up!

Baby Shower Gifts!

2010-08-28T18:19:00.003-05:00

I have been itching to post these pictures! But since I had to attend the baby shower and give them away first I had to wait! I had fun making these for Ms. Addyson Claire, who is due to arrive on the 1st of October!

Quilted backpack! I hope Mom can use this little bag to carry the necessities while keeping her hands free to snuggle Addy Claire!

I wanted to do something for the holidays but of course it had to have some spunk! Not your average Christmas colors here!

And I might be a little biased but this is about the darn cutest onesie ever!!! If I do say so myself (and I did!!!)

Tattle-Tale Thursday!!! Take Two

2010-08-26T08:42:00.005-05:00

OK...So last Thursday I kicked off a Link Party! I told a lot of people about it and I am hoping that this Thursday we can do it again (maybe add a few more..who knows!)

But first I have to show you these adorable bloomers! How freakin cute are they? I mean really!!! Down the street and around the corner from where we live is a gas station/convenience store owned & operated by a couple that has been around forever! Everyone in town knows them and they seem to know everyone in town. Shawn and I feel somewhat loyal to them and for the most part do not fuel up anywhere else (i know that seems weird but oh well). Anyway, the family welcomed a great granddaughter a few weeks back so I put together these bloomers for her! I love the way they turned out and can not wait to do more!!!

OK so on to the technical stuff! Please feel free to join my link party and tell all your bloggie friends! This is about fun and exposure...so whether you blog arts & crafts, home improvements, recipes, photographs, or you just blog because you like to talk and want people to listen...this is the place to join up! The rules are simple and all I ask is that you pay it forward by commenting and following at least one other great blog! (oh and keep it clean, of course I reserve the right to remove any inappropriate material)

Ready, Set, Go!!!
Don't forget to grab by button on the right hand side of the blog! Link back to me anytime!

Turtle Love

2010-08-24T16:41:00.004-05:00

You have to agree that this fella is a cutie! There is just not much else to say about him cause he speaks for himself!

P.S. Don't forget to show me some love by joining my very first link party! Pretty Please! Click Here

Tattle-Tale Thursday!!! Link Party

2010-08-19T11:01:00.005-05:00

OK, So I have had so much fun joining Link Parties all over the bloggie world! I thought I would try it out myself! I love the idea of giving other bloggers a chance to link up and get lots of exposure while have lots of fun!

Please be patient with me....This is my first attempt and I am not even sure if I have done this right!!!!

Don't forget to grab my button and post it on your site!

Giveaways!! Who Loves Em?

2010-08-18T23:00:00.006-05:00

Who wants to win some free stuff? I know I do! Well, you can check out all the possibilities for prizes by entering the giveaway that Charity from The Carriage House Studio has going on over on Facebook! As you know I am all about supporting other small business chics and this one just happens to be pretty close to my heart since she is my cousin! Charity does some fabulous children's portraits in the Mobile, AL area. (see examples above..I know you just went "ohhhh ahhhh") Take a second to check her out and leave a comment! (feel free to mention that you found her through DBK..wink) She doesn't know I am braggin on her!

To make sure you are in on the fun click HERE....You must go to her Facebook page and "LIKE" her to be eligible!

OHHH I forgot to mention that I have something in the giveaway as well!!!

Speaking of giveaways! I am planning to do one of my own in the near future! Stay tuned for your chance to win a personalized travel mug like these!

I am also joining some bloggie parties this week!!!

Really Fun Kids Stuff

2010-08-17T10:37:00.004-05:00

Soooo...It is official..I can now call myself an "International Supplier of Super Duper Cute Stuff"! Whew, that is a mouth full. A few weeks back-or could be more like 2 months-I received an email from a Mom that had stumbled upon my website and just had to have some personalized sippy cups for her sons' upcoming birthday party! Imagine my surprise when her email ended with "and can you ship to Singapore?" Well, I have never been one to say "NO"..so I began the process of trying to figure out the best way to qoute shipping and then also to charge her for shipping. It was not as cut and dry as you would think. There was also a slight hitch with payment..seems as though my paypal account did not want to process her credit card due to currency reasons...but in the end it all worked out fabulously and I was able to ship these cuties off well in advance of the birthday party! Now, I ask you, how stinkin cool is it that someone liked my stuff so much they would want me to ship it to Singapore!! And I thought it was amazing that I was shipping to Idaho before!!!

Probably we are all in the middle of back to school madness! Thankfully we are in week 2 of school and our lives are moving into something that might resemble a routine! My kids are doing better adjusting than I am ....Bailey's alarm clock goes off and she wakes her brother up while I am still giving the snooze button some love! There is also a lot of multi-tasking going on in our household as we try to juggle work, school, dance, gym, homework, yardwork, housework, and of course sewing! Whew...I am tired all over again just typing that! In the end it all works out and if there are cobwebs in the corners of my hallway...well I can take comfort in that they have set up shop in a well loved atmosphere! So where was I..oh yeah, back to school...Caden gets to lay down for about 30 minutes of rest in Kindergarten and they have to bring in something to lay on. The note said a beach towel...but we already had a napper from preschool and it has a nifty little pillow and cover. He was not so sure about using it so I told him I would put his name on it and he could pick out the colors.

Check back soon for more of my latest projects and probably some that are really old!

Love & Stitches,
Karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Birthday Girl

2010-08-12T12:40:00.004-05:00

See, I told ya, no more pink!!! So this layout is very simple and classic! Just like me!!! HA HA

And of course it has been awhile since I have posted anything! But we have wrapped all of our summer craziness and it was an absolute blast! If I can get around to it I have some great pictures from all of our adventures. But in the meantime I wanted everyone to see this gorgeous little girl sporting my latest project! Ms. Taylor is a huge fan of my work and as you can see she is not afraid of the camera!

Her Mommy is doing a great job with her photography business..you can check it out by clicking HERE!

Have a great day!!!

karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Rethink Pink and Hopping

2010-07-02T11:47:00.002-05:00

OK so here is my random thought for the day...Pink...The color pink can be great! Light pink, dark pink, kind of salmon pink. It's all good really. I have nothing against the color pink. I am just tired of the color pink on my blog! So in the near future (ha yea right) look for some changes...maybe I will go with hmmmm...black or orange. Let's face it, it will take me 2 months to get back around to this random thought and then the color & design choice will have changed..again!

Another thing I am thinking is how much I love blog stalking..uh umm hopping! I could really "hop" all day long. But since that gets me nowhere fast with all the other million and 1 things that need to be accomplished I try to limit myself. Sometimes.

2 months...Really?

2010-07-01T09:02:00.005-05:00

When I signed on to my blog today and saw that my last post was in April....well, nothing major happened! That's just me and this crazy life! April and May were quite hectic with 2 dance recitals, 1 pre-k graduation, and one 8th grade honors program. Not to mention at least 3 or 4 V.I.P birthdays! June hit like a freight train with V.B.S for a week and then Summer Daycamp for Bailey for 2 weeks. Starting this past week our oldest daughter, Samantha, is with us for an extended summer visit so now the real fun begins! The 2 younger gremlins look forward to this visit all year! We always figured that as Sam got older and more involved with friends she would start to dislike the long visits...but it seems just the opposite! She is a wonderful big sister and truly enjoys her time with them!

My absence from the bloggie world usually means that I have also been super busy making some really cute things! So now we are well into summer and I am well behind on showing you the aforementioned super cute things! But that's OK..I would not trade one minute of my crazy, hectic life for one that is much more sane and relaxed and at a slower pace...hmmmmm seconds thoughts?!?! Nahh!!!!

Oh, another fun thing that I have been trying to accomplish...clean out all of the misc. inventory that seems to be spilling out of every nook and cranny that I have or can create in the house! Right now, if you are a fan of my Facebook page you can see some of the extra cute stuff that I am practically giving away! So hop on over and become a fan....don't forget to leave me a note..cause I love notes!!! Click Here

I have several clients with little boys right now and the boys need that extra cuteness too! It seemed like all last year all of my projects were girl related! So this has been super fun!

I absolutely could not resist putting a picnic ant on this shirt for my niece, Zoey! I wish I would have had my camera in hand when I showed it to her. Pointing to the ant, I said "Look Zoey, what is it"! Eyes wide, face scrunched, she replies "a buug" with a little shudder! Regardless, you have to admit that this ant is welcome at any summer picnic!!

A friend of mine had her little girl's first birthday party last weekend and we were unable to attend! So I had to make her something extra cute! I bought the shirt a size larger than 12 months so that hopefully she will get lots of wear out of it!

This is another outfit that I took home last weekend for Zoey. She is a flip flops kind of girl, just like her Aunt Karla!

Intentions

2010-04-16T08:59:00.004-05:00

Oh to be a blog-maniac! I have the true, sincere desire to be ultra cool and timely with my blog updates. What is that saying...something about the "road to somewhere not fun is paved with good intentions"? Anyway, if ever there was a girl with good intentions it is this one here! I have about a seventeen hundred pictures on my camera right.this.minute! Just waiting for me to move them to the computer, edit, and get to blogging about their cuteness! Again, those intentions are the best! I finish a project and take a few minutes to snap some shots and that is where it ends! Alas, I can not sit around and mope about it (well actually I can because I am woman and I can mope as I please!)

When I stop mopeing long enough to think about the reasons I do not blog more often I realize it is all about choices! And the awesome part is that most of the time I am choosing my husband and kids over editing and posting! I say most of the time, well, because we all know that there are times when the cute husband and dirty kids are being totally ignored for some computer time.

And then other times I realize that part of the reason I do not get around to blogging more often is that my mind tends to wander around from subject to subject. For instance in the time it has taken me to type this update I have been mentally reviewing things such as:

-I wonder if I can find all of the pieces to Bailey's recital costume?
-Hope the squirrels will stay out of my flowers this year?
-Ohhh yeah, I have a bag of corn cobs to put out on the squirrel feeder, need to do that tonight!
-Is "mopeing" really a word
-Wait, hubby just texted me to see if I texted our hair chick to make him an appointment(seriously!)

Ok I am back, now what were we talking about? Oh yeah, my lack of blogging abilities! So with all that off my chest I am going to move on with my day! I have lots of orders (yay), lots of errands (oh boy), and lots of sunshine to work with this weekend! So while I might not make a post everyday, just know that I am constantly thinking about it! And soon there will be a new one waiting for you when you come to check in on me! Maybe one day I will get it together enough to do a giveaway! Hmmm...would love to hear your thoughts on that! Leave me a comment let me know how you are doing! While I do not post often enough I sure love to see/hear your feedback!!!

Summer is on the way!!!

2010-04-04T21:07:00.006-05:00

I was doing so good with the blogging for a couple of weeks! Not so much these past few weeks though! But I am very excited to share one of the funnest items ever!

Summer is finally right around the corner! These spa wraps are perfect for lazy days at the beach or lake! They also make great graduate and Mother's Day gifts!

I love the time change!

2010-03-15T07:01:00.004-05:00

I don't know what all the fuss is about! Some people just absolutely hate the Spring Forward time change! I LOVE it...repeat...LOVE IT! Yes it is a bit darker when you first get up in the morning, but by the time I am showered and fully awake the lights are on outside! The awesome part is coming home in the evening and there is plenty of daylight left to get outside with the kids and dogs and get some much needed fresh air and sunshine! This is the time of year to get the kids out of the house, away from the goober box, off the video games, and on to the swingset or out with the bat and baseball! This is the time of year for all the folks that blame childhood obesity on soft drinks to open the back door and say "hey you, stop eating that cheeseburger while you are playing video games and go move your butt around outside".

Ahhh...I just love this time of year. I am not so much loving that everytime I go in the store there are aisles of bathing suits staring at me. Don't get me wrong, I love bathing suits..but I have said to myself "Self, you are not buying a bathing suit this year until you reach your fitness goal". Self is working on it, somedays it is easier than others. I also have a very very very hard time finding a swimsuit that I like and that likes me back. I hate anything that ties around my neck (and it seems they all do these days) and I need "full coverage" in the caboose! Very hard to find!

Anyway, enough about me and on to the cute stuff!

Here is a look at some of the latest baby shower gifts I have had the pleasure to work on!

you can reach me at karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Twice in one day! Wow.....

2010-03-08T21:04:00.004-06:00

OK so I know there are times when I go weeks without blogging and here I am giving it a go twice in one day! This fun outfit is for Matti...you might remember her birthday outfit from a few posts back. I just finished up the shirt and I knew Kim would die if she had to wait until tomorrow..so here we are!

Matti just turned one and she has been working on her walking and stability skills. Good thing...cause these ruffles require sass! But Matti (uh-um Kim) likes all things big, frilly, and full of spunk!

Oh and I could not wait to get home from work today..I knew these little treasures would be waiting on my doorstep! I love Micheal Miller fabrics!!! So many choices..I ordered these last week but I already have plans for more to come! Can not wait to see what I get to dream up for someone with these. Bailey likes the grey with flowers so I will soon be working on some cuffed capris for her to ring in Spring!

You know how to reach me.... karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Sore butts and busy weekends

2010-03-08T06:32:00.006-06:00

Good Monday Morning! What a beautiful weekend we had! It was just pretty enough outside to make me think that short sleeves, capris, & flip flops were in order to run some errands on Saturday! I was about half right! Out in the direct sun it was perfect. But under the little tent thing in the garden section of Lowe's.....not so much! However, that did not deter me from pulling out another pair of capris on Sunday! The kids played outside ALL weekend! Which gave me some much needed time to concentrate on sewing ALL weekend! It was fabulous!

Shawn and I have been working out at the Opelika Sportsplex for awhile now. Last Wednesday I decided to take a Cycling class. Oh.my.goodness! It was a great workout but my sitting bones paid the price! Friday night we bought riding shorts with those neat (yet oh so ugly) cushions in them. Saturday morning Shawn took the class with me! The shorts helped...marginally! I am looking forward to giving it another whirl on Wednesday! Yay me!

Here are some of the many projects I have been working on. These are a couple of weeks in the past. But a lot of the items I do are for baby showers or other event gifts so I try to make sure I know the date so I can post after!

Cute Personalized Onesie! Love these and have a ton more to blog soon!

Monogrammed Burps make the best shower gift!

Who doesn't love a cute pair of bloomers!

P.S. Don't forget how to reach me karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Today I am joining these parties in blog world:

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Read more: http://www.craftskeepmesane.blogspot.com/#ixzz0hadMxpD6

Spring Dresses

2010-03-03T20:46:00.006-06:00

OK, so it is almost getting closer to Spring! I love everything about spring, well almost! I can do without the pollen, but the birds, bees, and trees can not so I suffer for the greater good!

I also can not wait for the time change! So nice to be able to run errands and still get home with some daylight left!

Check out these sweet outfits! These are for a family of cute little cousins ranging in age from 3 months to 4 years! What a sweet Spring/Easter pic these are going to make. I have 3 pictured here but there are actually four of them. One more purple one that are for the 2 sisters of the group!

This little jon jon is light blue gingham! I am still working on perfecting my skills with my new rockin camera!

P.S. You can contact me through email about any of my projects karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Busy Weekend...Ready to start a new work week!

2010-02-28T21:58:00.007-06:00

What a great weekend! We had a nice overnight visit from the Grandparent's and Samantha! The kids were surprised when they got here since we did not tell them they were on the way! After getting back home from breakfast this morning, I have been hard at work all day! I have a lot of projects going on right now and they are all so so super cute!

Some of them have to wait to post here in bloggie world because they are upcoming baby shower gifts and I would not want to spoil a gift surprise! Here is just a peak of what I was able to accomplish today. Add about 4 more burps, 3 dresses, 1 jon jon, 4 koozies, and.....well more stuff! So much fun! I just love it!

I just love dressing up a plain onesie with something cute. You can never go wrong with a zebra applique!

Lovin me some pink and brown with ribbon and pom poms!

Friday Fun....Bridal Party Gift Ideas

2010-02-26T06:27:00.006-06:00

Yep, it is officially Friday! And I am off to an early start...kind of hard to believe! I am not and have never been an early morning person! But even I have to admit that my day just goes so much better if I get up and get in the shower first.

I have a lot of projects going on this weekend. But I wanted to show off these cuties. Who would think that slippers could be so darn cute! I have had customers order these for many different gift reasons...going on a girl weekend, bridal parties, just because!!!

They come in all the trendy colors and we can do pretty much anything you want on them!

So much fun for your little piggies!!

P.S...I love blogs so I follow lots of other people too!!!!

Don't Pinch Me!!!

2010-02-25T07:11:00.003-06:00

Good Thursday Morning! I do not know about you but I am certainly ready for spring! I think I am suffering from a serious case of spring fever. And this past weekend I could tell that the days were getting longer...I am a longer day kind of gal. That means when we get home from all the daytime rushing around we can go out back and just ....sit awhile! Ahhhh

You gotta love a leprechaun right?!?! This is for a handsome little man whose Mom has me on speeddial and I love it! What a cute idea. Sometimes it is hard to find really cute stuff that is not also too girlie..but I think we did it!!!

Email me anytime: karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Nursing Pillow Slipcovers Rock

2010-02-24T06:31:00.005-06:00

Go Karla, Go Karla...This was a very exciting project for a very excited customer! I can not wait to make more nursing/boppy pillow slipcovers! There are about a gazillion options and ideas floating around in my head!

Anyway, take a look and leave a comment. I would love to hear anyone and everyone's opinion!

P.S. I am super proud of myself because this little number has a zipper in the back(my first ever)...zipper = easy on, easy off to throw in the wash after cute little baby deposits unknown amounts of strange liquids!
(Warning objects on blog may not appear on website. But if you are interested just email me karla@dezignsbykarla.com)

Cute enough to eat!

2010-02-22T20:01:00.006-06:00

I have been so excited to get this post done! My BFF from wayyy back is having her daughter's 1st birthday party this weekend. So of course Mommy requested something extra adorable for the big day!

Needless to say I can not wait to get some pics of Matti wearing this!

I just love doing applique with lots of different textures..like the fuzzy minky dot for yummy chocolate and strawberry icing!

Terrific Tuesday....needs a list!

2010-02-16T09:13:00.004-06:00

It is only Tuesday and already I have some extra cute and fun projects to get completed!

To name a few:

- 4 pair of personalized slippers for a bridal party (how unique and fun is that?)
- One boppy/nursing pillow slipcover (well it is complete, just needs a boppy pillow to fill it up, expect pics soon)
- Several burpcloths for a weekend baby shower
- A St. Patrick's day T shirt with a leprechaun to warn off all those would be pinchers!
- A couple of birthday outfits including one for my BFF's 1 year old baby girl, Matti!!!

So check back soon....I hope to overwhelm you with pics!

Baby Shower Ideas

2010-02-14T18:10:00.004-06:00

I am so excited to finally sit down and blog some of the latest things I have been doing! One of my best customers is about to become a G'ma and she is totally excited! Needless to say I have been busy helping her prepare for his arrival!

These 2 little cuties kind of explain themselves! They were a shower gift and from what I hear went over very well!

Bailey Bug

2010-02-11T13:13:00.005-06:00

Bailey has been taking Irish Dance Lessons - think Micheal Flatley's Lord of the dance - since October. It seems as though she has found her little place in the world of extracurricular activities! Although she still wants to play soccer and that makes her Daddy very happy. The most important thing is that she stays active and enjoys what she is doing at the same time!

Last weekend the Dancers were invited to be the entertainment at an Auburn University Club benefit function. Talk about excited! The studio offers lessons to dancers from 3 yrs to 103 yrs of age! Almost all of the students participated with the exception of the wee little ones. The event was a black tie affair....I had to pick Bailey's chin up several times, and stop her hand from floating out and up to touch one of the many formal gowns that were being worn around! While in the ladies' room waiting to wash her hands, there was a stunning orange dress using the sink. (I should call her a person, but honestly in the eyes of an 8 yr old girl...well, there was only the dress to be seen) Anyway, as the dress stepped aside, Bailey says - in complete awe - "You look beautiful"! It was really so cute!

Of course I have some pictures. What Mom would not come fully prepared to take pictures. I cleared all the current pics off my memory card, charged my battery, and off we go. But alas, after getting 3 shots of the girls pre-performance, the camera decided it was done. I have been having trouble with this darn thing and at one point I did threaten to throw it out the door. I refrained, and I am sure that everyone was grateful. BUT, I did get a couple of cute ones!

Bailey's class was doing a group dance and they were one girl short. So Ellie filled in. OH.MY.GOODNESS. you have never seen a more excited little girl. To be dancing with an older girl that is advanced in her technique...well you can imagine!

Are you there sanity...It's me Karla!!!

2010-02-05T10:06:00.004-06:00

Well, my goal of blogging more often seems to be constantly outrunning me! However, I have recently found some other awesome blogs to stalk and I feel the motivation bubbling up in me to get a move on! I am still busy embroidering and sewing and have some cute things coming up that I really need to show you! Valentine's, St. Patty's Day, and Easter all make for great projects!!!

Bailey is knee deep into her Irish Dance Classes and while it has added a whole new dimension to our busy lives, I have to admit that I am really enjoying it. Watching her learn the new steps and practice so hard makes me proud. They will have a workshop this weekend and have the chance to take lessons from Karl Drake (he is pretty famous in the Irish Dance world). Then Saturday night is their first performance!!! Fun FUn FUn!!

OK back to the subject of blogging:
One of my current fav's is "Today's Creative Blog". Kim is an awesome lady that highlights another blog or website "almost" everyday of the week. I just can not wait each day to see what she has posted. And through her blog I have found several others to stalk....too bad I do not get paid for stalking! Hmmmm

Anyway, Kim has a Friday Giveaway every week and I am sure hoping to win!

Have a great Friday and an awesome weekend!

Love & Stitches,
Karla

2010-01-05T12:18:00.003-06:00

It has been forever since I have posted anything at all and the entire Holiday Season passed by without the first picture of all the cute things I was able to create! Shame on me! However, I must say that it was another absolutely wonderful experience to be involved in creating precious gifts for people across the country! Monogrammed Spa Slippers seemed to be the hot item this year!

I also have to admit to being the worst ever when it comes to Christmas cards or pictures or anything like that! I remember every year my Mom sat down with this huge list of addresses and a huge stack of cards. She managed to get a card out to each person on that list. Then if someone new sent us a card well, they went on the list too! I have never been able to get that routine down..so I gave up! A couple of years ago I snapped a cute pic of the 3 kids in front of the Christmas Tree. Took that one to good ol' Wally World and made the cutest Happy New Year card you can imagine! Sent that to the Grands and the Great Grands and everyone was happy!

So this year I made an appointment with a friend that is working hard to grow her own photography business! Praying that it would not rain, again! I got that wish...but good grief was it cold! All in all it worked out pretty darn well! She got some really great shots of my 3 goblins and even included Ruby in a few! I am posting a sneak peak. Jessica is going to blog some on her side also but I could not wait!

Oh..and to achieve my goal of organized chaos....I am going to be making some changes to my current blogs. I have two, 1 for family and 1 for Dezigns by Karla. I decided that the two are so very closely intertwined and I rarely have time to keep one of them updated...so all will be consolidated! I will just post some "what's happenings" here and there mixed in with my current DBK projects!

I could not believe that we actually got Shawn to participate so freely!

Here are the goblins! Starting with the youngest.

Caden is 4 but he can not wait to be five! Jessica did a great job with the picture. But mostly I was very proud of my little man for cooperating so well the whole time!

Bailey Bug. What can I say! She has loved the camera since she was very little! It is hard to believe how she is growing!

Samantha...The Teenager! Whew! Such a beautiful girl inside and out! Watch out world!

Christmas Dresses

2009-11-03T18:25:00.005-06:00

So the Birthday Sleepover was a huge success! We had pizza & ice cream cake. Opened presents and played Twister! It turns out I was fighting a major sinus cold all day Saturday! But in spite of that Bailey and I were able to get everything done and all of the children had a great time. Be on the lookout for a post on the family blog with all of the fun pictures...um soon!

A trip to the doctor + one big fat shot + 2 yummy prescriptions and I am on the mend this evening. I was able to get these 2 extra cute Christmas dresses done! I am also getting started on a major fleece jacket order for a local business!

The dress is red gingham (picture did not do it justice)! These are available in a wide variety of colors and sizes! Also, for the boys you can get longalls to match! How cute for those family Christmas portraits!

What's going on around here!

2009-10-28T10:27:00.002-05:00

So who says that every blog post has to have a picture? Not this time. But I have a ton of stuff coming up so it will not be long and there will be more cute pictures to browse through.

We are past the mad dash of Fall Soccer Season. This year the team was made up of 1st & 2nd grade girls and they had the best time! This week is of course the death of all good dental habits...Halloween! Our town has decided that between High School Football and College Football we will trick or treat on Thursday night. I understand the rationale..but it kind of feels weird!!!

Oh and if I go missing in the near future I may have run away to the beach! I agreed to a birthday sleepover on Saturday night! Bailey is super excited! Shawn and Caden plan to vacate the premises when dark arrives! The good thing about that is they will take the doggies with them and that will be 2 less "animals" for me to keep up with!

Check back soon for some new project pictures and party pics from the sleepover...IF I survive!!!

More Ruffles and Burps!

2009-10-26T14:40:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of myself! Another blog post! Yay me!

OK so a couple of weekends back we went to visit the family in South Alabama! So the night before I scrambled to whip up a pair of cute ruffle pants for my niece Zoey. I think you will agree that they are extra cute with the coordinating shirt! Those are christmas tree lightbulbs all over the pants. It is hard to get a good pic of a busy 2 year old!

Then last week I had a few baby orders to work on.
Quilted diaper bags, burps, and bibs make the best shower gifts!

I think the font on the right with the big "G" might be one of my newest addictions!

Another lady in our are was preparing for a new baby girl and they named her Charlie. I just love this for a little girl!

Ruffle Pants

2009-10-13T14:09:00.003-05:00

My daughter has been envious of these everytime she sees one of her girlfriends wearing them at school. So I finally got down to it and made her a pair! And of course a shirt to coordinate. I guess I will have to get started on another pair cause these are not gonna cut it as the weather cools off!!!!

And of course some more of the cutest burps!!! These are just so much fun!

Cute Dresses for any occasion

2009-09-16T08:57:00.004-05:00

There is not much to say about these dresses/outfits as they really speak for themselves! These will be posted on the website soon with color and monogram choices. I will have some updated pics soon showing all the cute ways these can be personalized just for you!

Zebra Print is all the rage right now and every little princess needs one of these with her name or initials in hot pink or maybe lime green.

Corduroy Alines for the girls and Jumpers for the boys are perfect for the upcoming holidays.

Classic gingham Alines can be a hit for any occasion. There are so many colors to choose from. Red/White works for Christmas. Or show your team spirit at the next football game by sporting team colors.

And of course we have to have something for the boys. These are available as long pants also!

It has been awhile....

2009-09-15T10:42:00.004-05:00

Man...I can not believe it has been almost 4 months since I have blogged. I guess the good thing is that we really had an awesome summer and time just slipped away! That is not to say that I have not also had some really cool sewing projects going on during that time too! I just have not stopped to take pics and blog about them! But I am really, really going to try to get better. My new goal is to blog once a week...ummm I think we have all heard that before!

School is back in full force and soccer starts this week...well last night but it rained so no practice! I was a good girl and took advantage of the unexpected time to work on a couple of orders!

One of them really inspired me to blog. I know that most of the things I create are highly "personalized". But sometimes you need a gift or want something that does not scream yours or your children's name all over it. That does not have to mean that you can not get something unique. These burps are a cute example....a lady stops me at Bailey's school and says "I need a baby shower gift but they are not sure what the name is yet, can you make something cute and girly and simple?" Hello....Can I do what? Of course I can!!!

So just wanted to share with everyone that personal and monogrammed does not have to mean names and initials!!!

Spa Wraps and Burp Cloths

2009-05-04T13:21:00.003-05:00

Well we survived through another Santuck weekend! It is a lot of work to prepare and then go work but for some reason it really is a lot of fun!

We had a lot of success with the spa bath wraps and matching towels! I have not had a chance to list these on the website yet. Feel free to email me if you are interested in ordering some... karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Have not posted any of the cute burps in awhile.

I love this new applique font! I can also see this on the front of a t shirt!

Love & Stitches,
Karla

Spa Wraps and Beach Towels

2009-05-01T22:17:00.003-05:00

It is time for Santuck again and I thought I would post some cute things I am taking with me this month!

Not sure if you can see all the details (it is getting late and my pictures skills are off!). These are spa bath wraps and towels. SOOOO cute! I will have my embroidery maching with me and offer monogramming on both items!

Wish me well. I think these will be big sellers with Mother's Day and Graduation coming up!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Love & Stitches,

Karla
www.dezignsbykarla.com

Just thought I would ramble today!

2009-04-29T11:24:00.003-05:00

I do not have a cute pic to post today! But I should have some more soon. I have had several orders come in lately and I will be working hard these next couple of days to get them caught up and out the door!

I just love when a customer places an order with me and tells me that the items are for her bridesmaids or other special event! I guess I just feel like I am doing such a personal thing for someone halfway across the country!

Anyway, I will also be at Santuck this weekend with my hardworking machine and 2 friends there to help me along! It should be a great weekend with good weather!

Hey, also, if you are on Twitter please look me up and follow me! I would love to have some more "Tweeps" to follow! I am @karlaboyse

Hope everyone has a great day! Please make sure to come visit often and send any other "blogstalkers" that you know over my way!

Love & Stitches,

Karla
www.dezignsbykarla.com

Applique Birthday Shirts

2009-04-27T14:19:00.003-05:00

Well, this weekend proved to be a busy one at my house! First of all my wonderful husband worked his tail off laying sod in our backyard! It is going to be sooo awesome when it settles in and the kids can run and play!

I was the official fetcher, retriever, go getter, and do whatever-er! But in between that I worked in the house trying to get caught up on some sewing!

The kids had a birthday party to go to yesterday for a 2 year old at daycare. Hannah also has a little sister, Lily, that will turn 1 in about a week. Kaelyn is their cousin and she was born just days after Lily!!!! I just love all 3 of these little girls and it is fun when I get a chance to make something for them. Lily & Kaelyn will share a party soon. I could not resist making them all match so sweet!

Paisley Baby

2009-04-21T09:13:00.002-05:00

This set is so adorable! Who doesn't love paisleys? What I love about this line of baby items is that we can get a whole kaboodle of coordinating gifts. Burps, Bibs, washcloths, blankies, hooded towels, and more! (Even Diaper Bags to match)

Each burp set comes with 4 coordinating burps! They are so much fun to personalize!

This blankie is the cutest idea I have seen in a long time! It has a growth chart right in the middle! So the new Mommy can measure her baby in style!!! There are no more babies at my house so 'Baby Alive' posed for the pictures!

You can see some of the other coordinating items like bibs on the website.

I am still working on getting all of the pictures and patterns posted. So if you need something you do not see email me: karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Love & Stitches,
Karla
www.dezignsbykarla.com

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

2009-04-16T09:07:00.002-05:00

It has been said that Mother's Day is 2nd only to Christmas as the biggest gift giving holiday of the year. We all want to honor our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and other special women in our lives and Mother's Day is the perfect opportunity!

I believe that we are all looking for the most cost effective way to purchase gifts these days. I work hard to find the best quality products at the best prices available. Please take a look at some of the cute, personalized gift ideas that are on my website. Maybe your Mom likes to carry her morning coffee with her...she needs a Travel Mug! How about if you could send her a pair of soft, fun colored, monogrammed slippers!

These days a lot of us live far away from our families so visting with a gift is not an option. I would love to direct ship your gift wherever it needs to go!

Please feel free to email me about any products you see..or anything you want that I do not have!

karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Love & Stitches,

Karla
www.dezignsbykarla.com

Koozies

2009-04-14T19:18:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love zebra print! Here are some more of the famous zebra print koozies! Seems like folks are gearing up for summer days! These really make great gifts for things like bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, and more.

Shown here are koozies for 12 oz cans. I also have longneck bottle koozies w/zipper and water bottle koozies that are more slender and taller to accomodate all of us trying to drink more water!!!

You can visit the website anytime to see more samples of these and other koozies.

www.dezignsbykarla.com

Thanks for looking,
Karla
karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Crazy Weather and Craft Shows

2009-04-08T09:48:00.003-05:00

Well, I have not done such a good job of updating this blog or the other one lately! I do this to myself all the time! I want to be so dedicated and update with great new wonderful stuff once a week! The cool thing is that I have been staying so busy with orders that I do not have a chance to take pictures and post!!!

Last year I branched out and started going to some local Flea Market/Craft Show type events. I was very nervous about doing this. It is safe to say that once I got started I can not stop! It is so much fun and you get to meet all kinds of new and interesting people. In Santuck, AL there is a monthly event called Santuck Flea Market. I am here to tell ya, you can find everything at this place from antiques, clothes, produce, rugs ....the list goes on and on. And I have found myself right in the middle of the frenzy! The coolest thing is when you get repeat customers! Who would have thunk it, right? Well the past 2 months I have had someone come back and say "I bought myself a travel mug last month and now all the people at my office want one"...or "My daughter took mine" ...I even had a young lady stop by and wait 2 hours for me to complete her order cause she needed gifts for events coming up!

I finally talked myself into packing up my embroidery machine and supplies and bringing it with us to the show. March was the first month we did this and it was a small success. So off we went for the April show this past Saturday! I was also lucky enough to be right beside a lady that had made the cutest pillowcase dresses! What a win win for us both. She hung one up in her booth that showcased my embroidery and she and I never sat down all day! It was so much fun!

Thankfully the crazy weather gave us a break Saturday! It was a beautiful day! Now we are having more crazy weather..cold....yuck! I refuse to put my winter clothes back on though. Once I pull out the flip flops for spring it is on!!!

I hope to post some new pictures soon! We are all really looking forward to summer and camping! But I will try to do better with my updates!

Enjoy your day!
Karla
www.dezignsbykarla.com

Spring Fever Sale

2009-02-19T17:53:00.004-06:00

I have a major case of Spring Fever and I decided to have a sale so everyone can celebrate the upcoming Spring!!!!

So visit the website using this link and you will receive 10% off everything in the store.

http://dezignsbykarla.com?code=spring09

Please remember that I love custom orders and projects. So if there is something you need that you do not see on the website just email me anytime! karla@dezignsbykarla.com

I am working hard trying to add more items to the site each day. I have a ton of matching items for the Baby Boutique...if you see something you want or think you want and it is not there just holler at me!!!!

Here are a few samples of some of the things I am offering!!!

A Sneak Peak for Kim

2009-02-05T11:45:00.002-06:00

We are having a baby shower for Kim..my best girl from wayyyy back! Kim is having her 2nd child and it is going to be a girl! Brody had all kinds of cute boyish personalized stuff when he was little but I was not doing it at that time (booowhoo). So now that we are waiting for Mattison Taylor I have all kinds of things I want to make her. Kim has been begging for a peak and this is all she is getting until Saturday!

This burp is part of a 4 piece collection that you can see on my website by clicking here You can get them for yourself or to give as gifts. I also offer direct shipping for those friends and family members that are out of town!

Debit Card Holders (with keychain)

2008-09-17T10:18:00.002-05:00

I am soo excited about these debit/credit card holders! I have gotten comments on them everywhere I go. I have been using one for about 2 weeks now and I LOVE it. Have mine attached to my keys so wherever I go everything is with me!

Christy did some great pics and I am having a hard time choosing between all of them!!! I hope to get some more time soon to add more things to the website! But if you want to talk about your own personalized debit holder OR checkbook cover just email me at karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Old Jeans and a Plain white shirt

2008-08-28T21:59:00.003-05:00

On the way home from work today I got the bright idea that Bailey needed something to wear to school tomorrow to celebrate the start of football season! Many of you may know that we live near "War Eagle" country!!! For most of the past several years the kids have at least had a t shirt or something to wear on Fridays to "show some spirit". Well this year Bailey outgrew all the ones she had!!! Sprouting up like a bean and she has some long legs too!

Anyway, a quick trip to Target for a plain white Tee...run by the fabric store for some supplies (needed to go there anyway..wink) and back home!!! My original plan only included the t shirt. But as time progressed this evening I decided that Bailey needed something more. So, one old pair of blue jeans with a hole in the knee later and this is what you get!! It is pretty darn cute if I do say so myself!!!!

The funnest part is that Bailey had no idea I was working on something for her and I snuck in her room and laid it out on the bed!!! I will post some pics of her wearing it this weekend!!!

Latest Projects

2008-08-26T21:41:00.003-05:00

Just popped over here to post a couple of updates! Be on the lookout for some of the hottest new items of the season...monogrammed checkbook covers, debit card/driver's license carriers, and more!!!!

These travel mugs are for The Twisted Daisy! With school starting back up themed items are sure to be a hit!!!

This cutie patootie is Jocelyn (aka Jo Jo). Jo Jo's Mommy is Christy, my great new photographer chic!!! Jo Jo started preschool last week and of course she had to have the cutest lunch bag on the block..ok maybe even several square miles!!! As you can see she is very proud and had a great first day!

Monogrammed Spa Slippers

2008-08-12T10:01:00.002-05:00

More great gift ideas! You may think it is "only August" but the gift giving season will be here before you know it! I have these extra comfy monogrammable slippers in several colors including, black, white, hot pink, lime green, navy blue and purple! Check out the website to order or email me at karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Oh and a big thanks goes to Christy with Castellani Photos. We met Christy and her husband through their son Drew who is in class with Bailey. Christy is another "small business chic" working to grow her photography business. She is graciously working on some product photos for me and I am very excited!!! You can check out more of her work on her website HERE.

Busy Summer Days!

2008-07-28T10:33:00.006-05:00

I have been a slacker on posting! But it has all been for good reasons. We have really enjoyed our summer time with all of the kids. Things are winding down now and we get back into school next week!!! Wow...flies by...just like Mama used to say!

This weekend was the first in awhile that I have done nothing but sew and create!! Such Fun!!! I am also trying to squeeze in some time here and there to work on the website but it is slow going!!!

I have some great new products and I think I see Christmas lists being filled already!!! This is a longer than usual post so make sure you read all the way down...some of the best is at the bottom!!!!

Wrist Key Fobs!!!
These are not new..but I have some new ribbon choices...Last week Shawn and I made over 60 of these!!! I am so excited to be working with 2 local boutiques to provide them with great trendy items!!!

Saddlewood Collection

Here are some more patterns from the Saddlewood Collection. (Still working on getting these back on the website also).

This classy green tote and zipper bag is for my MIL. She decided that she carries enough stuff with her that it will just be easier to have it all in one tote. When the zipper bags became available I knew I had to get her one of those too. Perfect for eyeglasses, makeup, toiletries..whatever you need! She has not seen it yet and I picked it out so let's hope she likes it!

The black set is for my good friend Carnley....Carnley & daughter Catherine (aka Cat) have the same initials. So when Carnley started talking about needing a new bag for Cat's stuff I suggested one of these! Now when Carnley no longer needs a "baby" bag for Cat's stuff she can have it for herself. (I have a sneaky feeling that it will become Carnley's bag sooner than later!!!)

Towel Wraps
As always towel wraps make the perfect gift!

Personalized Sippy Cups

I am so excited to carry the popular personalized sippy cups! Now your little tot can drink in style right along side Mom and Dad!!! Since of course you have your very own personalized koozie or travel mug from Dezigns by Karla, right?

Sippy cups are perfect for the child on the go! Playtex brand cups are leak proof so that makes Mom happy!!!

These are not on the website yet...but if you are interested you can email me and I will be glad to help!!! karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Vinyl Monograms are here!

2008-07-16T20:33:00.003-05:00

OK for all those things that can not be hooped and somehow embroidered on my machine (and there are not many that I have not tried!) Vinyl Monograms are the answer!!! Just think of the possibilities!!! Endless I am tellin ya!! Cars, walls, children's furniture (only with Mommy's permission!!), dorm room decor etc..the list goes on and on!!

Check out the website and all the cool font choices!!! Lots of colors available too!

Email

2008-07-11T22:26:00.002-05:00

Since making some changes to the website I noticed that I was not receiving any emails. All my fault of course! SO if you have tried to email me and I have not responded I apologize!!!

Please feel free to email me with any questions or ideas for your next cute personalized gift!!! My working email address is: karla@dezignsbykarla.com

Travel Mugs..back in stock!!!

2008-06-23T18:54:00.011-05:00

Gotta love these personalized travel mugs!!! I know for a fact that these are selling in boutiques around town for $28 and UP!!! Take a look at what I completed this weekend and I gaurantee you will have to have one for a gift or yourself! I am working on having my website totally revamped so I am not posting any new products right now. However, you can email me anytime at karla@dezignsbykarla.com and we can get started on your personalized travel mug. Available with 1 - 3 initials ($18.00+ s & h) or full name ($20.00+ s & h).

Shown here are a few of the prints and color combos available. As always I am open to creating something just for you...so feel free to email me your special request of colors etc.

More Wild Onesies

2008-05-29T20:11:00.002-05:00

These onesies are the best! I am so excited to be carrying them and working with Dana at the Twisted Daisy to carry them in her shop! Here are some examples of what we worked on for the Twisted Daisy. She will carry some already monogrammed and some that are blank so that customers can place orders for the initial or name that they need!!!

New Key Fob Style...Wrist Key Fobs

2008-05-21T06:34:00.003-05:00

These are popping up everywhere! So cute and functional at the same time. Wrist Handle Key Fobs make great gifts for the new driver or even for yourself!!! Slip it over you hand to carry on your wrist while wrangling kids in and out of the car or carrying groceries! Your keys will never be far away!

Towels, Towels, and more towels

2008-05-18T21:16:00.003-05:00

I have been a busy little bee this weekend! You can tell that graduation and summer time are here!!! I finished 9 terry bath wraps, 2 personalized beach towels, 6 koozies, and 1 pair of adorable flip flops! Whew....It was fun..the terry bath wraps are very popular for graduating seniors and just about anyone that might use them out of the shower OR at the beach as a swim suit cover up! I think I am going to make myself one.....it will call for some wild animal stripes for sure!

Personalized Travel Mugs

2008-05-08T16:23:00.004-05:00

I think this speaks for itself! How classy! The travel mugs are great for coffee, tea, or any other beverage when you want to keep it hot, cold, or just keep your hands dry. Travel mugs have a covered spout and are sized just right for your car cup holder!!! Email me for more details or to order yours today. info@dezignsbykarla.com

Poll: Animal Print Koozies

2008-05-08T12:35:00.002-05:00

Trying something new! Please take a minute to complete the poll on the left to let me know what you think about these extra cool zebra print koozies!!! Your input matters! (sorry for the small pic...this one is actually borrowed). The koozies are the same quality as all of the others that I carry and can be personalized with an initial, monogram, or first name up to 6 letters!

Some things from this weekend

2008-05-07T13:36:00.003-05:00

Wanted to post some things I have done recently!

I just love how this little watermelon shirt turned out! Will be so cute at summer cookouts!

Here are some items I completed for The Twisted Daisy. Dana runs the cutest little shop in downtown West Point and she and I are working together to create some things for her to carry! I am very excited to be working with Dana!

I love baby bloomers! These are one of the easiest gifts to get for new babies but they always get the biggest "ooohs and aahhs". I did a few pair this weekend for the Twisted Daisy and I also have some inventory coming in so I can do more for my customers!

Wild Babies!!!

2008-05-01T14:25:00.002-05:00

Wild Baby Onesies are here! I am sooo excited about these I could bust! There are several different prints that are currently in production and I plan to carry! Zebra, Cow, Leopard, and Camo!!! There is also a Cow print onesie with a little skirt attached! How cute would these be on your "Wild Baby"???

As you can see Zoey will be the first to sport one! The bow sitting on top of the red ribbon is actually a hair clip! Talk about completing an outfit!!!!!!!

Get your Fab-U-Lous Flops now!

2008-04-21T22:49:00.003-05:00

Here are some more flops from the weekend! Don't ya love em?

I am thinking that I will start on some red, white, and blue flops to celebrate our great flag all summer long! Bailey just loves anything to do with the American Flag and I know she would love some flops in those colors to wear with her bandana shirt!!!

More Saddlewood Baby Gift Sets

2008-04-21T22:33:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago I proudly announced a new addition to my product line and it is totally Made in the USA! The Saddlewood Baby line DBK is so cute and trendy. The items are not just for baby. You can see a whole list of available products by visiting my website!

This pattern is called Aqua and Brown Retro Dots!!! SOOO cute for boy or girl!

Pieces can be ordered as seperates or a complete gift set!!!!

The Meadow set is so cute and springy! Makes me want to go plant some flowers myself!!! However, these flowers are still quit "retro" feeling!!! Tote is available also!

Amanda's Purse

2008-04-21T22:20:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love this fabric! Amanda told me that she likes black and white,and loves hot pink! Amanda was so patient with me while I searched for just the right fabric!! When I caught a glimpse of this I could not wait to get started!

Fab-U-Lous Flops

2008-04-17T06:29:00.005-05:00

There have been great reviews and lots of questions about the new flip flops! I already have 4 more pair to make so you better get yours soon! I thought I would post some more pics of possible styles! I have not gotten a chance to post on the website yet but you can email me at info@dezignsbykarla.com if you want to talk about getting your "Fab-U-Lous Flops"

These are all great for cheerleaders who want to show their spirit or college ladies who love their school colors!!!

Finally got up the nerve....

2008-04-15T20:12:00.004-05:00

To post some flyers around town! I have wanted to do this for awhile but have felt nervous about it! I know that sounds crazy..I want to grow my business but I think I was intimidated by what it might mean!

So today I did it. I posted two of these flyers at the place where Bailey takes tumbling! Such a great place too! There are lots of folks in and out and a lot of young ladies that cheer for different middle and high schools in the area! Perfect audience!

Are you ready for summer?...Flips Flops are next

2008-04-14T21:40:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love an awesome pair of flip flops? I know I do! And Bailey is no exception!!! These are sooo much fun to make and wear! You can have flops to go with every outfit or special made to match something cute you need to wear!

I made 2 pair of these for a lady at work. Both of her girls are high school cheerleaders and love everything to do with their school colors! (I see some orange and blue in my future as well!)

These are for Bailey! I have a bandanda top in the works to go with these wild flops! How cute!!!!! I can not wait until she can wear them...be on the lookout for a pic of the whole ensemble together!!! Oh yeah..of course a hairbow can be put together to complete the outfit!

Fun Projects...Busy Weekend

2008-04-13T22:07:00.004-05:00

I have had a fun productive weekend! The weather was nice after the rain stopped Saturday morning and the kids went out to play! I stayed near my machines creating all weekend! This is just a sample of what I finished up! I forgot to take pics of one set of burps before I packed them up and then another set went out the door as soon as I finished them! There are koozies going on the embroidery machine right now! But I had to take some time to post these pics!!!

These were a lot of fun to make!

I had to show off a close up of this adorable little monkey! He/She is sooo precious ....a bow could be added to "her" head to girl her up a bit!!! Also, as you can see all DBK gifts come packed and ready to give! This helps when you need to order something and have it shipped direct to the recipient!

One of the newest things I have been doing is pillowcases! There are so many creative possibilities. These are 2 seperate birthdays gifts!

Show me some sparkle!!

2008-04-10T09:16:00.003-05:00

Check out this ultra cute bandana shirt, hankie shirt, haven't figured out what to call them yet! A young lady in Bailey's class had a birthday party last Saturday and Bailey wanted me to make her something cute! So I put this together Saturday morning! It turned out to be very very cute and Danielle loved it! I do not have these posted on the website yet but I hope to get caught up with that soon. In the meantime, feel free to email me if you want to talk about getting one for your sweet little girl.

Spring is in the air.....and time flies!!!

2008-04-07T10:41:00.004-05:00

Whew, we have been running around like dead chickens! Wait...dead chickens can't run..maybe that is why we have been falling into bed each night and not moving until morning when we wake up stiff and stuck in one position! Our house has been busy lately! We are not complaining....just saying! Caden, my baby boy, officially turns 3at 12:20 pm today!!! So hard to believe! We had a small family party for him the weekend before last and he had a blast! Tonight we are going to Burger King for some indoor playground fun with a couple of his friends from daycare!

The weather keeps teasing us with sunny skies and mild temps and then taking it all back with a weekend full of clouds and rain. I love being able to send the kids outside to play all evening! But they were a little couped up this weekend! I spent some much needed time organizing and cleaning out some things in my studio! I feel refreshed. There is still more to do but my customers come first so I will be plugging away at all the fun projects I have going on.

While cleaning out I came across some things and had a brilliant idea! A Spring Cleaning Sale....so be on the lookout for some very cute, very inexpensive things to show up on the website! Prices will include monogramming! And don't forget to tell everyone you know about the new Saddlewood Baby collection I am carrying!

Bandana Dress on Bailey

2008-03-31T11:53:00.003-05:00

We had great weather in South Alabama this weekend so Bailey was able to sport her Bandana Dress! Everyone loved it and Bailey said it was comfortable! When I say she wore it all day I mean ALL day! And never once did the bows come untied!!

Of course I had to snap some pics of my niece Zoey! Although she is at the age where sitting still is not much of an option!!! But I got some good lovin this weekend from her!!!

A Bandana what?!?!?

2008-03-27T21:13:00.003-05:00

Dress! A bandana dress!! I am pleased as punch with how this little number turned out! Made out of bandanas, this dress or top for older girls is summer perfection!!! I have my niece Zoey in mind for this one and I know it is going to be HUGE on her...but oh well! Aunt Karla could not resist!

Bailey tried it on to see how it fits as a shirt with blue jeans and OMG...it is the cutest thing EVER!!!! I can see Bailey sporting these all summer and especially for the summer holidays!!! I think I will monogram the next one!

I do not have these posted on the website yet..but believe me I would LOVE to make some more!! So feel free to email me at info@dezignsbykarla.com

New product line sure to be a hit!!!

2008-03-23T17:53:00.003-05:00

I am soooo very excited to begin offering a product line that I feel everyone is going to love! Saddlewood Textiles produces some of the cutest items I have ever seen! I traveled to their warehouse on Friday to get a hands on look at the items! I thought I would never leave! While there I was able to talk to the owner's and get a good feel of what they are all about. One of the most fantastic things I discovered is that ALL of their products are made and distributed in the great ol' USA!!! I have spent most of the weekend working on my website display of the first set of Saddlewood Baby products I intend to carry. There is still some more work to be done, but I just can not wait to get the word out!!!

As you can see I will have a unique and fabulous line of trendy products for baby and mommy!!! The burps and bibs are cute enough by themselves. And then you add an awesome matching tote bag for the complete set and you have a true winning gift!!! (or your very own set!)

Please let me know what you all think about these!!! And pass along the exciting news to all your friends and family that may need something like this!!!

This pillowcase ROCKS!!!

2008-03-17T23:04:00.002-05:00

A friend at work wanted to get something extra cool for his daughter for her birthday next week. Like most girls (and a lot of boys) these days she LOVES Hannah Montana! She is a little old for a dress or something so I made her a pillowcase! I just love the way it turned out with the zebra print!!!!

This is me playing around with my photo software at 11 pm! I have NO clue what I am doing but I will figure it out!!!

Kiss Me...I'm Cute!

2008-03-17T22:21:00.003-05:00

This cutie is Catherine and it is safe to say that she and her Mom are my biggest fans!!! There was no pinching Cat today as she sported her St. Patty's day dress!!! What a cutie!!!

Psstt......the dress is fully reversible and has a spring theme on the other side! Cat will be able to wear this all Spring and well into the Summer!!!

I am having a lot of fun with these and have 100's of ideas floating around! Basically any 2 ideas that you want to put together will make an adorable dress for your little one!!! You can see the other side on my website! www.dezignsbykarla.com

Hippity Hoppity!

2008-03-03T07:25:00.002-06:00

Spring and Easter are on the way for sure! I could not be more ready! So at 11:00 Saturday night I was inspired to put this together for Bailey!

Reversible Dress

2008-03-03T07:13:00.004-06:00

Have you always wanted to get your little one a cute dress for a holiday but hate to spend the money on what will be a "one time" event? Here is the answer!!! This little number is completely reversible!!! I can not wait to do more of these for little ones all over! I am thinking the next one will be "summery" on one side and patriotic on the other!!!

Carnley wanted something for St. Patrick's day that would also take Cat through spring!!!

Frog Prince!

2008-02-28T20:44:00.002-06:00

Who doesn't love frogs?!?!? This prince is meant to be shared!! I think I will be using him a lot!!!

A fresh new look!

2008-02-27T07:37:00.003-06:00

You might notice a new look to the blog as well as the website! I am sooo excited about the new graphics! I stumbled upon Mandi's blog and the free graphics that she offers by accident! What a great accident. Mandie's blog is full of some cute freebie's and she enjoys working on special requests also.

Please be patient as I try to work on the layout of the website in my "spare" time. In our house spare time is well...spare! We both work full time outside of the home. Then between Bailey taking tumbling 2 nights a week, me trying to go to aerobics 2 nights a week, and keeping up with orders ...well there are not many more nights in the week left!!!! Thankfully, I have Shawn as my support and he is always picking up the slack around the house and with the kids and doggies! I would not be able to work on the website or create cute things at all if it were not for him! Believe me, I am not complaining! This is what I hoped for when I ventured into starting a business! I get tired sometimes but then I can look at the project I have just completed and feel very satisfied!!

Check back often for the next update...I have a cute project almost wrapped up that I think everyone will want to see!!! (hint..it is full of 4 leaf clovers and inchworms?!?!?!?!)

Adorable T Shirts

2008-02-27T06:42:00.002-06:00

These are some extra cute t shirts for a little girl that was a cheerleader with Bailey last fall! She is so cute and bubbly and the shirts match her personality just right.

Laila wore this birthday shirt to school this Monday to celebrate with her friends!

How do you dress up a plain brown shirt? Just like this....

Added a little extra something to this one!

Burps and Bibs and Lovies...Oh My!!!

2008-02-15T14:31:00.002-06:00

Matching burps and bibs are a great gift for a baby shower!

My sister in law has been asking me to make Zoey a lovie for awhile. I finally got to it today... we are going to see her this weekend and I can not wait!!!

New Arrival!

2008-02-04T05:55:00.001-06:00

We are excited to announce the arrival of our newest family member! Meet Ruby (on paper she is Mahaba's Princess Ruby Ru). Ruby is a pure breed Rhodesian Ridgeback. You may not have heard much about the breed as they are not as well known as others. However, after much research Shawn and I decided that this puppy is perfect for our family! We brought her home Saturday and she has had a busy weekend playing with the kids and entertaining visitors!!!

Ruby is 9 weeks old and weighs about 12 pounds. She is just beautiful and has already brought a lot of joy to our family. Even Kira seems to be "OK" with her!!! We told Kira that she is still the Queen....Ruby is only the Princess!

Shawn truly feels like a new father this morning since he had to get up 3 times to take Ruby out last night!!!!

Kira has been pretty kind to Ruby, however, Kira made sure to let Ruby know that she is the Alpha Dog around here. She did not bark or snap but after about 20 seconds of this greeting Ruby backed away and gave Kira the kingdom.

We believe that Bailey is in love!

New Baby Gifts

2008-02-02T09:11:00.001-06:00

This adorable set is for a new baby and his big sister!!! I just love using my fonts in "non traditional" ways like the "stacked" design on the burpcloth!

More Quilted Purses!

2008-01-30T22:15:00.001-06:00

I love how these are turning out! Although the material is quite thick, it makes for a really nice purse!!!

Weekend Projects

2008-01-27T17:17:00.000-06:00

I made myself this purse to carry for Spring!! (I am soo over cold weather!) I love this quilted fabric. Pardon the shadow!!!

This cute monogrammed burpcloth is for a customer order! I just love this font for a monogram! So sweet! I have found the best cloth diapers at Stitched and Stamped, they are high quality, do not pill, and are extra white!!! Oh and they come in a larger size than the pre-fold brand at stores...leaving lots of room to clean up spit!!

This adorable T shirt has been transformed into a "Big Sister" Tee! Everyone knows that our little Princesses must have this embroidered t shirt to welcome the new addition to the family and to let him or her know just who is in charge around town!

A new look to the lovie! I used flannel to back the chocolate brown minky dot lovie. Now the lovie is ultra soft while giving little hands another texture to explore!

Blankets for a new addition!

2008-01-21T20:06:00.000-06:00

My friend, Brandy, just got a new puppy named Sir Hardin Tuffman (aka Tuff). He is a little white furball and had to have his very own snuggly blankies. These are 2 different purchased blankets...made up just right for such a cute puppy! Just another example of how every family member needs his/her very own personalized items!

Be My Valentine

2008-01-21T19:58:00.000-06:00

Bailey has to have a cute shirt for Valentine's Day!!! And we just love the pink and brown combo!!!

This little heart is so fun to do...it "fringes" out everywhere for a cool look! She can not wait to wear it! Any T shirt can be personalized...it is easy to take a plain non descript T shirt and turn it into something one of a kind!If you are interested in something like this let me know!!! We still have time before V-Day!!!

Thank you for waiting!

2008-01-21T12:15:00.000-06:00

Yes, it has been awhile since I have posted any cute stuff! But it will be worth the wait! I am still having fun with the purses and now I am working on a cute set of A Line Dresses and Jon Jon's for all seasons! The best part is they will be completely reversible A Line dresses and reversible Jon Jon jumper's. And of course, always personalized!

So keep checking ....there will be more pictures soon!

Custom Made Purse

2008-01-05T20:24:00.001-06:00

More purses!! I just can not get enough! I am having so much fun creating new shapes.

This bucket purse is about 10 inches wide at the bottom and roughly 7 or 8 inches at top with a curved opening. The handle is about 15 inches from side to side.
I bought this fabric a few months ago for no other reason than it is just cute cute cute! When I told Kim about the fabric I was using she "just had to have this one". Wonder how long it will be before she sees it?!?!?!

Oh yeah...I couldn't resist making a matching key ring!!!

There are pockets on the inside and a sturdy bottom panel.

This is another one that will go on the website....All custom purses are made to order and are one of a kind.

Pillow for Bailey

2008-01-05T16:09:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks before Christmas I was in the fabric store and Bailey was rummaging through the scrap bin. As usual she "just had to have" something! When she found this particularly soft bundle of fabric quite a bit of begging ensued! I told her no and she went off to look at some other things. While she was away I had the clerk put the fabric in my bag and ring it up with great intentions of making something for her before Christmas. Well, here we are....2008..but I am pleased with how it turned out and Bailey was thrilled. She always oohhs and ahhhs over most of my creations but she especially loves the soft snuggly stuff and seems to really like things with the trendy pinks and browns! The fabric is almost like a faux suede and I paid $3.00 for it!!!! What a bargain!

Lovies for Twins!

2008-01-05T16:06:00.000-06:00

This set of lovies will soon be carried around by a set of identical twin girls! These are so soft and snuggly you just can not resist!!!

One Full Year!!!

2008-01-03T12:38:00.001-06:00

In January 2007 I became the proud owner of my first embroidery machine! One year later I have to say that it was an awesome decision! I thoroughly enjoyed the first year of my new business! I want to thank all my friends and family members who have been so supportive and have made sure that they tell everyone they know about me and my products.

This Christmas season was awesome for me! I was busier than a bumblebee but, I learned lots of new things and I feel ready to take on the next year!!! I have to give tons and tons of credit and gratitude first to my wonderful husband! He has been 100% supportive of my efforts and one of my biggest advertisers everywhere we go! During the holiday season, when I would get the guilties for not being with him and the kids for a few hours, he would be the first to say "go, do what you need to do, the kids and I will be OK". And you know what? They were! I worked on Christmas gifts for clients and family right up to the Saturday before Christmas. Then I covered my machines, cleaned my sewing space, and we left to spend some quality time with both sides of the family and all of the children for Christmas.

Believe it or not, until last night, I had not turned on either machine since we got back on the 26th. It was a much needed and gratifying break!!! I have enjoyed some time with Shawn..watching football of course! And the kids have been enjoying all their Christmas goodies!!!

However, last night I got a whim and turned "her" back on to work on a pillow for Bailey. I told Shawn it is all downhill from here...cause I am back in the groove!!!

I still have lots of ideas for things to do to improve the website and I have spent some time on that this past week. I like the current look, it is modern with clean lines, yet still fun and kind of funky!!! (yes, just like me!!!)

So once again, thank you to everyone! I am looking forward to expanding my product lines, especially the purses, in 2008. I know I have dedicated friends and family that will be there with me through this next year and I can not wait to see what it brings!!

P.S....Bailey got a sewing machine for Christmas..so she will be the next obsessed one in the house!

More personalized key fobs

2007-12-18T22:01:00.000-06:00

Here is another batch of custom key fobs I am working on. Still have about 10 more to go!!!! These are a lot of fun! Key fobs can be personalized with up to 3 letters and as you can see come in many choices of color combos!!!

The other pic seemed hard to see so here are some close ups of a few....

Adorable Custom Kids Clothes

2007-12-18T11:35:00.001-06:00

Talk about cute! These custom toddlers shirts are so much fun!!! Obviously for a set of boy/girl twins! I love taking your average tee shirt or onesie and making it special!!!

The stick kid faces would also make a cute sweatshirt or apron for a Grandma or Aunt or anyone special with all the children's names on there!

Bath Wrap or Bathing Suit Cover up?!?!?

2007-12-18T09:26:00.001-06:00

Bailey had a swimming party to attend this past weekend (yes it was an indoor swimming pool!!!) Anyway, the Mom had mentioned a while back that she wanted to see about getting a personalized beach towel made up for the little girl so I thought this was a great opportunity to give her a great gift!!! I know it is just getting into "freezing" here but you know in January all the stores will start hanging up the bathing suits!!!!

I have several of these wraps on hand and as soon as I get more colors in stock I will be posting them on the website!! I think a personalized bath wrap would make great HS graduation gifts or summer birthday presents!

Throw Blanket for Grandmother

2007-12-18T09:20:00.000-06:00

Here is the 2nd Grandmother blanket custom made for a client!!! It is sooo soft and warm I wanted to snuggle in and keep it for myself.

Personalized Key Chains

2007-12-11T21:45:00.000-06:00

Ever need a simple yet fun gift? These key fobs are just the ticket. Lots of teachers and babysitters will be getting one of these this year! Personalized with up to 3 embroidered initials the custom made key fobs are sturdy and meant to be put to use!!!

As you can see one of these is going to a music teacher!

The first "DBK" Original

2007-12-09T20:34:00.000-06:00

OK...you all get a sneak peak at what will be the first purse in the "DBK Boutiqe Line". Maybe I will call it something else..but the point is I now have a variation of the "square" purse! I have been thinking on this purse for awhile now and had it in my head just how I wanted it to look...it is pretty darn close!

This one will be called the "nichole"..so look for it in the near future!! Should be on the website soon!!

In case you can not tell..the purse is angle in a little more at the top! I think it makes a great "boutique" look!!!!

The great thing about all my custom purses is, although clients will pick the style and colors/patterns they prefer, each purse will be different than the last! All purses are one of a kind custom made purses. And of course all purses can be personalized with initials or a name before purse construction..so you get the professional look inside with lots of pockets included!

Custom Kids Clothes

2007-12-09T12:35:00.000-06:00

No more plain T Shirts! There are so many options with kids clothes these days. You may have seen the shirt I did for Bailey. Well, I couldn't resist making something for Avery! Totally one of a kind! I can not wait to churn these out for all occasions, Mardi Gras, Valentine's, St. Patrick's Day....you name it and your child can have a one of a kind creation!!!!

Purses!

2007-12-09T12:22:00.001-06:00

Here is a pic of the 2nd part of the Mother/Daughter purses that I posted a couple of weeks ago!!! I really had fun making this smaller version of the purse and thought it turned out just perfect for a little lady!

I am working on more personalized purses and hope to have another style to share with you soon!!!