Mini Jubah

It's time to stitch myself some new threads.
Again. 
And I have not forgotten about my daughter and husband.
My plan is to make a mini jubah outfit for myself. A mini jubah is a garment worn by Malaysian Muslim women. They are usually knee length and come in an array of colors, fabrics and styles.

    
                                           

Formal or Work
(photo from Kakchik's Wardrobe)

Casual (photo from Into Cheqta's Closet) 

My casual mini jubah is inspired from a maternity blouse with an empire waist and ruffles. I have sketch out some basic ideas. Empire waisted tunics and dresses are my best friends. They are comfortable and suitable for hijab because the waist falls under the breast which is covered by the hijab then the skirt conceals the hips. Some people say that the empire waist makes women look like they are pregnant but that's because the lady choose an empire waisted garment that had too much gathering in the front. An empire-waisted garment with alot of gathering in front is cool for maternity wear whereas pleats look much better for the front for non-pregnant ladies. 

I also wanted to try out this great little DIY back in the 70's book: The Illustrated Hassle-Free Make Your Own Clothes Book by Sharon Rosenberg & Joan Wiener. I found it at a local bookstore for $3 and it's simple & sweet to follow. The author is very laid back in explaining her projects. Terms like groovy, cat and funky are used. So insha'allah, you get this book, please read it before starting any project. 

My friend gave the fabric years ago and I have now figured out what to do with it. 

I love me some ruffles, so I'm adding some to my tunic. 

Here is a very long strip (about 80" inches) of black fabric that I have prepared for ruffling. I used my serger to narrow hem the raw edges. What I like about the narrow hemming is that it gives the strip more texture and body. Ruffles are a good way to use up your fabric scraps and a simple method to personalize almost anything.

Insha'allah more updates soon. 

Snow in Chattanooga

After two days of warnings and people wiping out the milk, bread, and snow shovels at the stores: We have snow.
It's so beautiful and powdery in the morning light. Awesome colors of cool oranges, subtle purples, and shimmering golds. I am waiting for the daylight to see the mountains. My daughter wanted play in it and hubby & I were like: no. We were able to compromise down to watching hubby clearing the snow from the van & driveway while she throws handfuls of snow at me.

A view of my street

In Need of Blogging Advice

First, I would like to ask my fellow bloggers about overcoming the humbleness of journaling about your projects.
What I mean is that I trying to post more but I keep talking myself out of it.
Do you guys have any tips?