Ready to go...

This is boxed and waiting for the post office to open on Monday (thanks to my daughter for posing)! ~Susan

Thanks to Becky in UT

What a lucky dog am I!!! I love this Becky. The vintage Betty Crocker Party cookbook is right up my alley and the log cabin quilted potholder is beautiful - and I love that I can slip my hand into it! You are so very thoughtful, especially since our dream is t build a cabin! You counldn't have done a better job! Thanks bunches!!!

Mailing on Monday

I'm all done except to pack it in a box. Before anyone asks, I did not use the pattern or the rick rack that I showed in my sneak peek. The longer I looked at it, the more I knew it just wasn't working for me. I am happy with the finished apron. I hope my partner enjoys it 'berry' much

Thanks Debye!

SQUEALLLLLLLLLLL~~~ Look at what arrived! Debye's gorgeous apron package came. Isn't this beautiful???The sweet pocket has a removable brooch! The skirt has a flirty ruffle! My "paper products" are personalized recipe cards and labels! And notice that it totally matches my birthday outfit, down to the cherry necklace -- I did not change but snapped this pic the second I got home. Happy Birthday to me!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU Debye!!

Birthday Giveaway

Sorry for this shameless promotion. It's my birthday and I'm having a little giveaway over on my blog. Stop by and enter! Hey, when you have a small family, you do what you gotta do in order to have bday fun! LOL!!

Just Finished!

This is a picture of the apron I have made for the Flirty Apron Swap. It was a lot of fun making this apron. I want to make one for myself also. I hope my partner enjoys it.

Mission Completed!

I finished my partners apron. Since I couldn't decide on which fabric to use, I made it reversible! It will be in the mail on Monday.....

Contest Time!!

Okay, gals. Someone asked if they were behind. No worries!! We are just barely at the halfway point. Keep sewing and posting pictures. Don't hesitate to post full pictures of your completed aprons; this is a secret swap, so everyone will just salivate and hope your apron is coming their way!

Since we're about halfway, it must be time for another contest! One lucky participant will win this gorgeous Patriotic Apron from Vicky at My Mom Would Be Proud! You can have up to THREE entries in this contest!

1st Entry - If you have a blog, add a link to Vicky's My Mom Would Be Proud Etsy shop, them come back here and leave the link to your site in the comments. OR, if you don't have a blog, visit Vicky's shop and leave a comment here about your favorite item in it.

2nd Entry - Add Vicky's shop as a Favorite Seller in Etsy. This requires joining Etsy, but there's no cost, no spam and it's a great on-line shopping adventure. Then, leave a comment here telling me that you've "hearted" her as a Favorite Seller.

3rd Entry - Send your apron early! The deadline to mail is June 15; however, everyone who emails me their delivery confirmation info by Wednesday, June 4, will also be entered into this apron giveaway!!

Last chance to enter is midnight, Wednesday, June 4, and I'll announce a random winner on Thursday.

Here's a little bit about Vicky from our first round of Flirty Apron Swap:
I have been quilting since 1985 and also started collecting aprons about the same time. I'm so glad that aprons have made a come back. I discovered Etsy just a few months ago and realized that I could satisfy my passion for sewing plus share my love for it with others by making aprons and doll clothes.

Vicky and I have gotten to know each other, and she's such a dear. You MUST read her profile while you're visiting her shop. Thanks Vicky, and Good Luck!!

My sneak peek

Here is a sneak peek at the fabric I am using! I feel like I am so behind! Don't we have a week or 2 before these are due?????? I better get busy!!!

Ready to picnic...

Since this is anonymous I thought I'd go ahead and post the apron I made.
I forgot to take pictures of the matching plates and napkins....as well as some other stuff.
I hope my partner likes it.

Guess what I've Got!

I've been gone for the past week, but guess what was waiting for me when I got home!?! LOOOOVE IT! Thank you sooo much Vee for my beautiful new apron and wonderful package of goodies! I will post pics as soon as I get settled.
Huggs..

On its way to a new home

That is the last peek you get! It is shipping out today

More contests?

Ohhh! Shawnee! I see 2 more sponsors listed in the sidebar. Is it possible that we may get a chance to win something wonderful from these apron inspiring ladies? I've been to both sites before, but I think I'll go visit again.

Peek A Boo!

Here is a sneak peek at my fabrics. I just got them and am almost done sewing. If all goes well it will be in tomorrow's mail. Hope my swap partner enjoys it as much as I have enjoyed making it.

Jennifer Sent Me This Beautiful Apron

I just wanted to say thanks to Jennifer for sending me this beautiful apron. I love it! Not only is it beautiful, but it is like two aprons, because it is reversible. I apologize for my tardiness, but I was traveling when it arrived. This was from the first swap, but I wanted to acknowledge a great big thanks to Jennifer.

Another Sneak Peak

I haven't picked out a pattern yet, but I'm sure inspiration will hit soon (it better!). At least I finally picked out the fabrics:

A little peak

A little peak at patriotism on Memorial Day weekend. These are the materials I'll be using my apron. Everything is cut and ready to go.

Using Delivery Confirmation

I just wanted to be sure that everyone understands what I meant when I required "Delivery Confirmation" from the post office on your packages, and that is not to be confused with "Certified Mail with Return Receipt".

With Certified Mail/Return Receipt, you do have an exact record of when the package is sent and received but the prices start at almost $7.00. It's most often used when you must prove when something is mailed, and requiring the signature adds a layer of security. That's overkill for our use and pretty darn expensive too.

Delivery Confirmation is only about $0.75 extra at time of mailing and you can track date/zip code/time delivered. You are given a tracking number at time of purchase and then can to go the post office website and look up its status there. You can just ask your postal person to add it on at the counter, and it is also available if you use their automated postal mailing machines.

Since we are sending only an apron and paper products, I'm hopeful that the postage will stay reasonably priced even with their small recent price increase. I want everyone to be able to play!

Thanks!!

Have your partner?

Has everyone received their partner assignment email and is exactly clear on who you're sending what to? I've had two people that my assignment email bounced so am getting a little worried. Otherwise, I believe all 67 of us are happily sewing away for each other!!

If you are unsure about anything, just drop me a quick note.
Shawnee

all done!

I thought I'd try one of those cute chicken-pocket aprons, so here it is. I re-used fabric from a child's well-worn/well-loved red bib apron to make a half apron that I hope my partner will like. I do not have my camera with me at the moment to take a picture of the finished package with all the stuff in it, so this pocket detail photo that I took earlier will have to do. I'll try and send it out tomorrow before I leave for my camping trip (Shawnee, I'll try and email you the confirmation code afterwards but it might have to wait until I get back June 3!)

sneak preview

Here's my sneak preview, this fabric caught my eye because of the retro print

I smell a picnic!

I had a big peek planned but I got busy and forgot.
Luckily I remembered to take a photo of the finished apron.....just not the 'goods' to go with it.
I'll post the finished 'product' in a few weeks....if my partner doesn't beat me to it......hope she likes it!

Apron Angels for Disaster Victims in Missouri

Hi ladies,

My dear friend and swap participant, Lucy, is gathering aprons to distribute in her community. Here's the info from her post on Sassy Apron Swap. Please consider making an extra apron and sending one to a sister in pain as a gesture of friendship.

"Ladies, The community I live in was hit very hard by tornadoes on May 10. Many of my friends and neighbors were left homeless or suffered severe damage to their homes.

The Red Cross and other organizations have been working hard to help them with food, clothing, and the resources to rebuild.

I am making a call to all the Apron Angels that have contacted me (or wanted to contact me) with offers to send aprons to those that needed them. I would love to be able to send an apron to as many of these women as possible to send them a message of hope and love.

They don't need donations of clothing and such right now because the community is seeing to those needs. This donation is one of the heart from one woman to another.

If you would like to participate, please send me an email at byrdhouse1(at)windstream(dot)net. We would like to raise about 100 aprons and will be collecting and distributing them over the next several weeks."

I hope several of us are able to help Lucy out. Your kindness will mean so much to someone who has lost everything.

~Shawnee

Wow Vee!

On Monday afternoon, I received my first notice of an apron mailed and the tracking number!! Wow, Vee, you are one speedy sewer.

Don't forget to post pictures for all of us to see, as you send and/or receive.
~Shawnee

All done

Well, I was at the quilt store on Friday, and the striped fabric just called out to me. So I found a blue to go with it and bought a yard of each--before I had even decided on a pattern. Then, I came home and found the pattern in my new favorite book and, presto, she's all done!

just a little peek !

and
. The colors didn't reproduce in the photos quite as well as I'd like, but I think this project is shaping up nicely. Can't wait to see what everyone else comes up with!

Sneakin' a peek...

Here are the fabrics I've chosen for the swap...the remainder must be kept secret under lock and key.

Flirty Apron Fabrics....

Woo Hoo! I love a legitimate reason to go fabric shopping without feeling guilty! Here are my fabrics for the new swap. I think I know what i'm going to do with them, but my wheels are still turning....

RED...WHITE...AND BLUE

I'm excited.... I got my partner today and off I went to the fabric store to get my fabric. I'm going to try a new pattern that I have. My partner likes girly things and so do I!!! Here's a look at the fabric selections I made and the pattern I am using. Can't wait to work one it.

Sneak Peak

I am going to preview the fabric only so the rest stays a suprise. I found a way to combine 4th of July colors and summer picnic cherries!

Sneak Peak

I'll be posting my sneak peak soon. It is fun seeing what everyone is planning.
I wonder who my partner is. I love the things I've seen so far.

Excited to start!

Here's a little peek at my fabric & the pattern I picked up ... I hope to start very soon ... maybe today!!!

Sneak Peek of My Fabric ...

Here is a sneak peek at what I am making. I am making the apron at the top. I am so excited to get started. I hope to get sewing next week.. This is going to be so much fun.

Can't Wait

Can't wait...can't wait! Here's a sneak peek at my fabric. And I've narrowed it done to one of these styles. Anyone else ready to show what they have waiting to become an incredible apron? Let's see.

Giveaway #1 - Winner is ....

Giabella Designs said...

My two favorites are Sunflower Field and Perfect Housewife! Thanks for the chance to win such a cute apron!
Sue Ann, giabella designs

May 5, 2008 4:41 AM

That's right - Sue Ann of Giabella Designs is our first contest winner!! Lana will be shipping the beautiful "I See Stars Flirty Apron" off to you.

We just want to again thank Lana for donating one of your amazing aprons. As you read in the comments, we are all just in awe of your talent. Each of your aprons are to DIE for!!

Here are some sweet comments from Ms. Lana:

"Hello. I am Lana with Sassy Aprons. I want to thank everybody for visiting my shop and for the nice words that each of you posted about my aprons on this blog. They put a smile on my face. I love creating and sewing sassy aprons. I know they are just aprons, but for me, they are a way to express myself. If I can add a little message with every apron, just a few words of wisdom (not necessarily mine), to show a little appreciation of the world we live in. I also want to say how lucky we are to live in this beautiful country. Thank you."


I couldn't say it better Lana -- this is a beautiful country and I AM proud to be an American (yeah Lee Greenwood)! Can't wait to see the flirty Americana aprons that this group will come up with.

Keep on eye on your mailboxes, everyone, because I'm sending swap partner assignments tonight until my eyes cross!! LOL!!

Again, congratulations Sue Ann!!

Up to 62 ...

Woo-hoo, we're at 62 .... I wonder who will win this gorgeous apron??

Less than four hours remain for you to sign up and/or enter the giveaway!!

Last Day to Sign Up!!

Okay Ladies,

This is your last day to support your country and sign up for the Independence Day Flirty Apron Swap!

Have you been trying to decide if you have enough time, have you been MEANING to send an email but haven't done it yet ... now's the time! We're just under 50 participants and I had hoped that we would have at least as many participants as Round 1 .... so, I need 10 of you to go get your best friend, your mother or your sister to sign up too! LOL!!

Also, it's your last chance to enter into a drawing for Lana's I See Stars Apron. Isn't Lana so creative? I just love her aprons and, from your comments I think you do, too. Oh, if one reason you haven't signed up is you are worried you might not have time to complete your own apron, don't forget that in a pinch you could purchase a handmade Etsy apron to send to your partner. Just thought you needed a fail-safe!
~Shawnee

Celebrating Independence - Giveaway #1

Okay ladies, here's our first giveaway open to everyone who has joined or blogs about the Flirty Apron Swap prior to midnight PST on May 15, 2008. Not a participant yet? Join today!


Lana from Sassy Apron is giving away this gorgeous and flirty "I See Stars - Flirty Independence Day Apron" to one lucky lady!


I have been drawn to Lana's aprons for months! Lana's shop profile reads,
"My name is Lana and I live in sunny Arizona. I am the designer behind these one-of-a-kind, beautiful vintage inspired aprons! I create the designs, cut the fabric and sew the aprons one by one! I am fascinated with fashion! I love the 20's flapper dresses and hats, the 50's Dior New Look skirts, the 60s mod dresses. I try to use these styles as an inspiration in my aprons. I cut the aprons' skirts on bias for a fuller look and I love to add ruffles and small details like rosettes or bows on them."

HOW TO ENTER:
All you have to do is visit Lana's Sassy Apron Etsy Site and browse around, then come back here and leave a comment below telling me what your two favorite items are in her shop. If you would like to enter a second time, blog about this giveaway at your own site, then leave the link to your post in a second comment. And, you will be entered a third time if you post a swap button on your site (copy the code for the images from the right sidebar) and leave me a separate comment.

I will pick a random winner on May 16, while I'm assigning swap partners. Good Luck and Start Blogging!!
~Shawnee

Swappers Listed!

I've added a list of swappers who have registered so far. Please check to be sure your name is on the side bar and that I have typed your blog/profile web address correctly. I'm getting excited!!

Flirty Apron Swap II – Celebrating Independence

Flirty Apron Swap II – Celebrating Independence
Last Day to Sign Up: May 15
Last Day to Mail Packages: June 15

Package Requirements:
The theme for this swap is “Celebrating Independence” and everyone should receive their aprons by Independence Day. You will make an adult size apron with that theme for your known pal and your unknown pal will make one for you.

You will send your partner:

1. Handmade apron with one of the following fabric elements (pre-washed):
a. Color of red, white and/or blue; OR
b. Stars; OR
c. Fireworks; OR
d. Picnic/BBQ novelty print fabric

2. Coordinating paper product (package of napkins, tablecloth, plates or cups) keeping with the Independence Day/summer gathering theme

3. Handwritten note on how your family celebrates Independence Day or summer gatherings

Swapping Rules:
By signing up for the Flirty Apron Swap, you agree to the following:

1. To reply to my assignment email within 48 hours, acknowledging receipt of your partner and letting me know you’re still playing.

2. To remain anonymous; if you need to ask your partner a question, send a message through me or use a secret email account that does not have your real name attached (test it first).

3. To joyfully create an apron that you would love to receive, washed and pressed so it’s wonderfully fresh for your partner.

4. To mail your package no later than June 15 using USPS Delivery Confirmation or other tracking, and to email me the tracking number so I know you’ve met your mailing commitment.

5. To email me when you have received your package, and to copy me on your thank you email to your unknown partner who worked so hard on your apron.

6. To have fun! All participants will be invited to author on the Flirty Apron Swap blog and will be able to post pictures of aprons-in-progress, comments and giveaways. The more the merrier! Since this is a secret partner swap, you post as many photos and details as you want!!

How to Sign Up:
Simply send an email to shawneeh@yahoo.com no later than midnight, May 15, 2008, with the following information:

• Full Name and Blogger ID, if different
• Website address of your blog or other online profile
• Mailing Address for Partner to Send Apron Package
• Phone Number (just for my records in case I can’t reach you via email once swap begins)
• Dress/apron size as many patterns require that information
• Any apron preferences as far as type, color, dislikes, etc. While partners are not required to meet your preferences, this is a good starting point.

Package Requirements

Flirty Apron Swap II – Celebrating Independence
Last Day to Sign Up: May 15
Last Day to Mail Packages: June 15

Package Requirements:
The theme for this swap is “Celebrating Independence” and everyone should receive their aprons by Independence Day. You will make an adult size apron with that theme for your known pal and your unknown pal will make one for you.

You will send your partner:

1. Handmade apron with one of the following fabric elements (pre-washed):
a. Color of red, white and/or blue; OR
b. Stars; OR
c. Fireworks; OR
d. Picnic/BBQ novelty print fabric

2. Coordinating paper product (package of napkins, tablecloth, plates or cups) keeping with the Independence Day/summer gathering theme

3. Handwritten note on how your family celebrates Independence Day or summer gatherings

Swapping Rules

Flirty Apron Swap II – Celebrating Independence
Last Day to Sign Up: May 15
Last Day to Mail Packages: June 15

Swapping Rules:
By signing up for the Flirty Apron Swap, you agree to the following:

1. To reply to my assignment email within 48 hours, acknowledging receipt of your partner and letting me know you’re still playing.

2. To remain anonymous; if you need to ask your partner a question, send a message through me or use a secret email account that does not have your real name attached (test it first).

3. To joyfully create an apron that you would love to receive, washed and pressed so it’s wonderfully fresh for your partner.

4. To mail your package no later than June 15 using USPS Delivery Confirmation or other tracking, and to email me the tracking number so I know you’ve met your mailing commitment.

5. To email me when you have received your package, and to copy me on your thank you email to your unknown partner who worked so hard on your apron.

6. To have fun! All participants will be invited to author on the Flirty Apron Swap blog and will be able to post pictures of aprons-in-progress, comments and giveaways. The more the merrier! Since this is a secret partner swap, you post as many photos and details as you want!!

How To Sign Up

Flirty Apron Swap II – Celebrating Independence
Last Day to Sign Up: May 15
Last Day to Mail Packages: June 15

How to Sign Up:
Simply send an email to shawneeh@yahoo.com no later than midnight, May 15, 2008, with the following information:

• Full Name and Blogger ID, if different
• Website address of your blog or other online profile
• Mailing Address for Partner to Send Apron Package
• Phone Number (just for my records in case I can’t reach you via email once swap begins)
• Dress/apron size as many patterns require that information
• Any apron preferences as far as type, color, dislikes, etc. While partners are not required to meet your preferences, this is a good starting point.

Vintage Pin-up Girl Half Apron

The gorgeous vintage pin-up girl apron in the new logo is from Cindy-Lou's Etsy shop. If you hurry, you might be the lucky owner of this beauty!!! Thanks, Cindy-Lou, for letting me use your photo!!

(Sneak Peek) New Flirty Apron Swap - Celebrating Independence

I'm perfecting the details and will announce the next Flirty Apron Swap later today! The contests will be back! The fun in-progress photos will be back! The flirty aprons will be back!!

I procrastinated a wee-bit so you will only have a 10-day window to sign-up. As an incentive to promote our fun swap, you can earn several entries in our first giveaway for THIS amazing apron:
More Later,
Shawnee