Let's Talk Bonnets!

When making modern and cute clothing for babies and toddlers, bonnets might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, with a modern fabric the simple bonnet can be transformed into the perfect spring and summer accessory. I recently happened upon a great bonnet pattern on Etsy from Sewingwithme. It couldn't be more simple. This pattern comes with in multiple sizes with easy to follow instructions and two variations. I have had so much fun with it! I have made three different sizes in both the regular brim and the ruffled brim, a reversible variation, canvas outer, fleece lining, and quilting cotton with interfacing.

Birch Organic Fabrics made this reversible bonnet to die for in Marine Too! and Ipanema prints. 

Get your bonnet making on this spring!

2 Pandas Baby Boutique is Coming!

2 Pandas will be attending a great event on March 8th in Oak Harbor, WA. The Whidbey Warriors Auto and Motorcycle show will be hosting many vendors this year to drum up support for this great cause associated with the USO. We will be featuring baby boutique items this year. Everything from baby toys, bibs, teething pads for baby carriers, binky clips, baby crib shoes and more. Here's just a few things you will see:

Come take a look at the extensive selection of pacifier/teether clips, also available in the Etsy shop.

Felt flower headbands are handcut using eco-felt and upcycled wool.

Brighten up the day and get ready for spring with these cute accessories.

A full line of baby bonnets in sizes XS-L in plain and ruffled brims, as well as fleece or cotton linings.

Little Mio's Hinamatsuri Ensemble

This kimono ensemble was made for my neighbor's daughter. Little Mio is a quarter Japanese, and her family loves to celebrate Japanese traditions. This outfit was created for Hinamatsuri, otherwise known as Girl's Day. I hope this is an ongoing tradition for their family because Mio looks adorable in her outfit!

I included a folded seam in the mid sleeve to be removed as she grows. This kimono will last at least a couple years. I made this set out of nani IRO double gauze fabric, from Japan. It is soft and drapes nicely. For a look at nani IRO fabrics, check out MissMatatabi on Etsy.

The outfit includes a kimono jacket, an obi, wide-leg shorts, a white gathered undershirt, a kanzashi brooch and headband.

Oma's Flohmarkt

I would like to take the time to shamelessly plug my Mom's shop, Oma's Flohmarkt. My mom taught me how to crochet, has a knack for color and is sort of a perfectionist.

My mom, Jeannie, has been such an inspiration to me to sew and create and be the imaginative person that I am. Her shop specializes in crochet, sewing and vintage European finds.

Custom Work through Etsy at 2 Pandas

 

 Some of the most interesting items that I make are custom creations for my 2 Pandas customers. From outerwear to hats and scarves, custom work is easy through Etsy! 

Simply go to Bobbyandliz and use the Request a Custom Order button to initiate an Etsy conversation that we will use to communicate your custom order specifications. 

This week, I will be running a giveaway for a custom crochet hat! Enter Here

Thanks for following our blog!

Come check out all the new items at the Etsy shop!

I have been uploading photos and new listings to the Etsy shop all night. If you haven't checked it in a while, you'll love all the new additions!

Elegance & Elephants Roots Sew-Along Lorelei Kimono

 I was a military brat growing up, my heritage is a strange mixture of things that are not truly my own yet are closer to me than anything else I have ever experienced. I grew up in Germany, but I am not German. I spent a great deal of time in the Southeast United States, but I am by no means a Southern girl. My daughter was born in Japan and now she is beginning her life very similarly to my own. She will very likely have a multitude of culturally diverse influences in her life that shape her and help her grow. I will always have a place in my heart for Japan. for Elegance & Elephants Roots Sewing Series I am submitting my first entry as a kimono for my daughter. She will wear it this year on March 3, known as Hinamatsuri or "Girl's Day" in Japan.

I made this fully lined kimono top from quilting cotton with Michael Miller's Textured Basics by Patty Young. The interior and obi is made from one of Patty's older lines, Heaven and Helsinki. The neckline is made from Moda bias that I made with a coordinating solid. The kimono has three buttonholes and a button beneath the obi to ensure years of fun. 

The obi can be tied elegantly in the back for a traditional look, while the front highlights the little houses motif of the lining fabric.

Fresh, modern and simple!