The holidays is a busy time for everyone, lots of parties and gatherings with red being the color of the season I decided to sew up a cape to wear! The last cape I made for myself was in high school I believe, fur was involved and not so sure it was the most flattering.

Along with the red cape, a red surprise awaited me under the tree! My darling daughter Kate gave me a new dressmaker form, I was totally surprised and touched by her most thoughtful and practical gift! She is also the one who when living at home was always my model for my designs. With the CHA tradeshow only a month away I will be using my new gift extensively!

Here is Kate modelling an outfit I made a few years ago, needle felted fleece cape and cuffs, I miss having her around all the time but when I use her special gift I will think of her!

Birch Fabrics manufactures a line of eco-friendly organic fabrics with a bright fresh modern look. I designed an Advent Calendar with their prints for Creative Homearts Club, it is a featured deisgn this month. Full directions are available. The birds and ornaments are sewn from National Nonwovens Xotic bamboo felt, so soft and easy to work with.

This calendar could also be easily adapted for year round use in a child's room by making the birds without hats and the number ornaments circles instead for days of the week. Alphabet letters is another option to make it a fun learning tool! Sew cute!