One Skein Scarf (2+ hours)

November 28, 2007 in Crafts

Because I’m always running cold, Kathy, from the studio, made me a scarf out of our new yarn for Boss’ Day. I asked her if she would mind writing up instructions for the project.

Materials:
1 skein DM Illuminations yarn (Vanilla Bean)
Size 15 Knitting needles
Reserve 24 feet of yarn for fringe

1. Cast on 8 stitches
2. Continue in knit rows until scarf reaches desired length (Debbie’s scarf is approx. 56” without fringe)
3. Bind off knitwise and loosely. (weave in ends)
4. Cut fringe yard into 18” lengths; attach 8 strands (each folded)

Sit in front of a couple hours of re-runs on TV (so you don’t have to look up too often) and before you know it – you’re done! 

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The Big Dance-"Off"

November 27, 2007 in Television

I was traveling and multitasking the last two weeks of “Dancing” – but still watching faithfully (even though not blogging about it.) I had all the ladies over last night for Turkey Soup, salad and wine and to watch the big Dance Finale. And, it was kind of a bust! The best word I could come up with to describe the show was “awkward.” Typically the Free Style has been the big dance event of the evening – but with the exception of Helio – they seemed a little weird. Maybe Mel and Marie were a little “danced” out – we can only imagine how exhausted they must be. Thank goodness for Helio’s final dance – I think it saved the show.

Having watched the entire season – in my humble opinion, I still believe the Mel was the best dancer of the season. And Helio is a close second for combining charismatic showmanship and technique. I guess we’ll find out tonight. It will be good to have a little break now for the Holiday until American Idol starts up. Phew!

(Oh, and Julianne and Maksim – best professional competitors of the season too!)

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Midnight shopping for clothes!

November 26, 2007 in Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

I had a great trip to Hudson, OH and my interview, book signing and demo went off without a hitch! Well, I guess there was one minor hitch. I made it to Ohio, but my bag didn't arrive until after I was long gone. In fact I had been in Santa Fe, NM for a day and half before it caught up with me. I met some wonderful members of the JoAnn's team for dinner as soon as I arrived in town and one of those lovely ladies took me out to Kohl's midnight madness sale so I could shop for clothes (and underwear!) at 10 o'clock that night. 

One of the highlights of my day at JoAnn's was meeting Dan (one of the fabric buyers). He really gets into his work (as you can see). He made this shirt out of DM Christmas fabrics and wore it proudly all day in the store. Talk about making him accessible to all the customers (and anyone) who walked in the doors. You go, Dan!

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My Vacation Inspiration!

November 20, 2007 in Quilting

What an incredible opportunity I just had on my trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico. At the Museum of International Folk Art, I saw a film called "Gee's Bend Quilts and Beyond." I imagine a lot of you are familiar with with this story - but this was my first real exposure to the story. The women of this community who had survived a life of poverty told stories of their lives and how quilting together was an outlet for them to bond in joy, support, song and expression. What came across so powerfully in the film and their interviews was that even though struggle and extreme poverty had been a dominant force in their lives - their community of support and strength got them through. The quilts they made were created exclusively of scraps from old clothing. The ladies delightful humor and gratitude came across as they shared their stories. Over and over they emphasized how important quilting had been to them and how crucial it was to surviving with their spirits intact. After the movie their was a panel discussion about the film. The panel included Jane Fonda (yes, the famous movie actress!), her daughter, Vanessa Vadim and Matt Arnett who filmed and edited the movie. Because the crew was comprised of only the later two, they achieved great intimacy and trust from the ladies and the rest of the community. After the film and the discussion from the panel, we viewed the exhibit of quilts. Jane Fonda was extremely articulate, humorous and interesting. (she brought her dog with her!) All of us that attended thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

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Holiday Decorating Radio Interview

November 20, 2007 in Media

I recently had a fun and lively conversation about “Ideas and Tips for Decorating for the Holiday” with Cindy Dole, the host of “Home Wizards with Cindy Dole” on radio station KRLA in Los Angeles, CA. This aired on Sat, Nov 10.

http://homewizards.tv/archive_view.asp?id=164

Thanks to modern technology you can Click on the link and listen to the interview. 

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Shopping Incognito

November 12, 2007 in Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

You got my big news about my JoAnn program and thank you for your comments and support. I haven’t received many product samples yet, so like everyone else – if I want it, I need to go shopping for it. Last week I went to my local store and loaded up my cart with gifts and a few things for myself. I love the gift wrap and tins! There is something kind of embarrassing about buying your own stuff for some reason. I found myself looking at the floor when I was up at the check-out thinking that even though my photo was plastered around in the store, maybe she wouldn’t recognize me. Ha!
The ladies at the fabric counter wanted to know when they were getting another shipment of fleece because they were running low and so were the other stores in town. Well, I whipped out my clipboard, and told them when their next shipment would arrive – JK!!  (Just Kidding)  I wish I knew and I was thrilled to hear it was selling well. We put the items I purchased to good use – because I’m prepping to do some Table setting, gift and project demos at the JoAnn’s flagship store on Darrow Road in Hudson, OH this coming Saturday. (Nov 17 noon-3pm) If you’re in the neighborhood, please stop in to say hello.  I’ll be posting a new quilt design using the new fabrics on our Website on the 17th – so you can at least check it out there.

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So Cute & Cozy!

November 7, 2007 in Crafts

Jackie, who has been on my staff for almost 12 years now (Wow!), has a daughter who teaches first graders. We occasionally donate things to her for her classroom. Recently, we gave them a couple of our fleece fabrics to make each student their own little classroom pillow. Brandi, or “Mrs. Ottersen” to her kids, tells it like this:

“We are learning that as teachers and students, it helps to be comfortable in order to have great stamina for learning. I already have what we call “cozy spots” in my room for children to use, but not enough for everyone at one time. So, why not make a spot for everyone? I asked a parent to sew 25 little fleece pillows – one for each student. They use them at their desks, on their chairs, lying down with a good book, or snuggling up for a story read by their teacher. The kids love and are taking great care of them. Each child will be able to take them home at the end of the year.”

I have to admit, it wouldn’t have occurred to me what a great idea it would be to make a little pillow for a child to bring to school until now. This would also be a great donation idea for sewers (or even non-sewers since they are so easy) for Shelters, hospitals, etc. – anywhere where there are little ones in need of extra comfort. 

Look at their cute, little happy faces. Thanks for sharing this with us, Brandi!

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What’s with all the Kissing?

November 6, 2007 in Television

Apparently that’s the sure way to the Judges hearts now. That big red juicy one that Marie planted on Len seemed to pay off anyway. I thought she came back really strong this week – her Boogie-Woogie Bugle Boy Quick-Step (in uniform!) was darling. She does have an amazing smile. And that weight loss is impressive.

Helio also has magic in that smile. I thought his dances were great – especially the Latin number. (I thought he would have gotten at least one “10” for that dance)

Everyone is looking so good and svelte! – Mel B in her Latin dance costume was the most amazing of the night (maybe the season). What a show stopper!! She could go all the way. They totally earned three 10’s on that one.

Jennie has been very consistent – her personality isn’t the “wow” that some of the others are – but she is a beautiful dancer. Her arm extensions are so lovely and graceful. 

Aside from admiring those big muscles and his physique – I think Cameron’s boyishness and his earnest sincerity are his most charming qualities. He’s working so hard!!

TONIGHT’s TOP 3 Favorites:
1.  Mel B
2.  Jennie
3.  Helio

Loved the Cheetah tattoos that everyone showed in support for Sabrina. Way to go!!

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Now at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores!

November 1, 2007 in Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores

I can finally let the cat out of the bag! After sitting on this for a couple of years now, I no longer have to be “mum” about it. I’m very excited to announce to you that I’ve entered into a product partnership with Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. The official launch date is November 4th and promotion will be in full swing by November 11. You will be able to find exclusive lines of fabric, holiday and everyday décor, yarn, crafts and much more at Jo-Ann Stores nationwide! It was a push to get this Holiday program underway and the product lines will be expanding throughout the year. In fact, we work so far ahead that I’m deep into designing Spring 2009 right now. I haven’t been able to share much of my “behind the seams” at the studio, because it’s all been hush-hush up until now.

I am still designing fabrics and products for the Independent stores and that will be different art and design from what you’ll find at Jo-Ann’s. So the good news is, there will be a lot more product and it will be much easier for you to locate.  There are 800 Jo-Ann stores in the U.S. If you aren’t located in the U.S. (and I realize that many of you aren’t) – you’ll be able to find the product on the Jo-Ann website. (Beginning Nov. 7) DebbieMumm.com will be directly linked to the Jo-Ann site. In fact we will have a Jo-Ann Landing Page where you can access information about new product releases and FREE projects featuring the Jo-Ann products. I’m so excited – the Holiday products are SO CUTE!  Please check them out!  Debbie

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