HALF OFF ... Twirl Your Heart Out 6 Panel 6

HALF OFF today only ... Twirl Your Heart Out 6 Panel Skirt

HALF OFF Wednesday ... the Happy Herringbone Dress

Wednesday January 30, 2013 ONLY get the Happy Herringbone Dress for half off.

A super cute halter dress featuring an empire bodice with an elastic back and a pieced herringbone style skirt.  Bodice is fully lined for comfort.

Full instructions on using clear elastic for creating perfect gathers every time.

Two length options: tunic or dress.

It's fun to mix and match prints and colors.  Perfect for coordinating fabrics or even using up scraps and fat quarters.  

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Essential Pants

TODAY only ... get the Essential Pants for half off ... yup ... you're gonna LOVE this pattern.  THREE length options (shorts, capris and full length)

Top picture:  Forty Toes Photography
Bottom picture: Risa West Photography

House & moving progress

We got to do the final walk-through on our new house yesterday.  Still a couple things that need to be finalized ... but it's getting closer.  We're hoping we can close and move in by the beginning of February.

THANK YOU to my beautiful fans and customers for putting up with me through the chaos that is my life right now.

Doll Reimbursement Program

Introducing our "Doll Reimbursement Program" (a.k.a. DRP)

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Now you can review our patterns and be reimbursed for part of the purchase price to do so.

(Currently 75% ... and subject to change).

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Submitted and returned reviews does NOT guarantee reimbursement.

Subject to approval by Jocole.

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HOW IT WORKS ...

~ Purchase a pattern that is eligible for the Doll Reimbursement Program (DRP) and let me know you are interested in participating. [Notice: not all patterns are eligible for the DRP]

~ I'll reply and email you a form that you need to fill out.

~ Download your pattern, print and get sewing!!

~ Return the form and at least THREE (more is better) high resolution fantastic pictures of the item made from the pattern [you MUST include pictures of the item on a 18" doll and made to match on a little girl] and return it to me within THREE days from when I emailed you the review form.

~ Write a small review and post it on Jocole.com for the corresponding pattern. (Instructions on how to do so can be foundHERE)

~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.). The more information you give me, the BETTER!!!
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**Reimbursements are sent via an email with a Gift Certificate redemption code that is valid atJocole.com (not our etsy shop)

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REQUIREMENTS ...

~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)

~ You must have an 18" doll (American Girl, Our Generation, Madame Alexander, etc.)
~ You must have the results back to me within **THREE DAYS**
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me. (The better the pictures, the more likely you'll be approved for the FULL reimbursement)

~ You MUST allow Jocole to use all photos of finished products for promotional purposes.
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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

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Review Reimbursement Program - FORM (pdf format)

Review Reimbursement Program - FORM (word format)

Clear Elastic Gathers and Ruffles ... EASY tutorial

I think one of the most asked questions is how I gather with clear elastic.  It has changed the way I sew.

NEVER ever ever use basting threads again.  Nope clear elastic is the only way to go.  You'll never have to mess with pulling threads or scratching your head about ruffle ratios to make gathers.

You'll get PERFECT gathers that are exactly the right length ... EVERY time !!!

Here are my complete instructions for making gathers EASILY with clear elastic.

Pattern Testers Wanted -- No-Name Coat -- CLOSED !!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED !!!
thank you!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "No-Name COAT" (#25003) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by January 13th!!

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Description: A super cute cropped coat featuring an empire waist with a button-up front, a ruffle that is longer in the back, topped with a super cute bow. 

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I need testers for the following sizes: Doll, 3m, 6m, 12m, 18m, 2t, 3t, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14

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Already claimed: 

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

**I reserve the right to choose whomever I wish to test.  It will not be based on a first-come first-serve basis.  If you've tested before and did not return the results you are NOT eligible.... and you must have purchased pattern from Jocole before.

Free Tutorials & Patterns

Here is our complete list of FREE tutorials or FREE Jocole patterns

Cinch Sac Backpack
Mix&Match: FREE Gathered Skirting Measurements

FREE Printables

FREE Coloring Pages
Easter Coloring Pages
Peplum & Skater Dress Coloring Page

FREE Holiday Printables
Printable Valentines - Owls "You're a Hoot!!"

FREE Printables for Your Home
AEIOUY - Vowel Check
Destiny Quote
Light From Within Quote

FREE Iron-On Transfer Designs

100% Boy or 100% Girl

Halloween - Vol. 1

Halloween - Vol. 2

Halloween - Vol. 3

Halloween - Vol. 4

FREE Stencil (Applique) Designs

Damask

Heart Hands

Lotus Flower

How to Shrink or Enlarge Templates

FAQ & Other Important Information

• About PDF Sewing Patterns
• Pattern Testing Guidelines
• Open and Print your PDF Sewing Patterns using Adobe Reader
• Doll Reimbursement Program
• Review Reimbursement Program
• Jocole Reviews
• Labeling Questions Answered
• FB & Etsy Photo Dimensions
• Custom Pattern Services
• Website design ... Anne Quade is the BEST !!!

Sewing Techniques, Tips & Tricks

• Here is our complete list if FREE tutorials for techniques, tips and tricks to help you while sewing Jocole pdf sewing patterns ... ENJOY !!!

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• Binding Directions (SEVEN Ways!)
• Cheer Bow Tutorial

• Clear Elastic Gathers

• Elastic Casing & Ruffle Casing Directions

• Elastic Waist Directions (knit elastic, like leggings)
• Electric Seam Ripper (You NEED one!)

• Fabric Organization (Comic Boards)
• Inset Pocket Tutorial (& printable pattern pieces)

• Knit Binding Tutorial

• Narrow Hem Directions

• Patch Pocket Directions

• Pattern Directions

• Ruffle Bottom Leggings

• Ruffle Directions (4 Ways)
• Sash Belt Tutorial (with cutting measurements)

• Serger Basics

• Snap Fastener Directions

• Stretchy Ruffle Directions
• Thread Storage

• Tips & Tricks for Sewing with Knit Fabric

Tutorials on Modifying & Adjusting Jocole Patterns

Here is our complete list of FREE tutorials on modifying or adjusting Jocole patterns

A-Line Yoga Skirt -- Hi-Lo Adjustment

• A-Line Yoga Skirt -- Maternity Adjustment
• A-Line Yoga Skirt -- woven fabric modification
• Basic Brief Bottoms - Knit Bindings instead of Elastic
• Basic Leggings -- ruffle bottom modification
• Basic Leggings -- extreme ruffle tutorial
• Basic Leggings -- Contrast Insert Modification
• Basic Leggings -- Sequin Leggings (or two-toned) modification
• Basic Leggings -- Pajama Pants Modification
• Boatneck Tee -- mix&match modification
• Classic Knit Tee -- adding a gathered skirt
• Classy Cowlneck & Basic Tee Bottom -- lengthening to a dress
• Crossover Tunic or Dress - Halter Modification
• Crossover Tunic or Dress - Maxi Length Adjustment [also works on the Radiant A-Line from the Mix&Match Series]
• Crossover Tunic or Dress -- sleeve modification
• Crossover Bodice + Peplum (or Skater Skirt) -- modification {+ printable pattern}
• Crossover Wrap Sweater -- pattern mix and modification tutorial
• Crossover + Herringbone Skirting = mashup tutorial
• Cuffed Pajamas -- Classic Tee & Leggings with Cuff Modification
• Endless Dress -- ALL Options, Variations & Add-ons
• Endless Dress -- knit bodice modification
• Essential Pants -- Flat-Front/Elastic Back Tutorial (works for ALL Jocole pants/shorts patterns)
• Essential Pants -- Inset Pocket Tutorial
• Essential Pants -- Sash/Belt Tutorial
• Essential Pants -- Tiered Maxi Pants Modification
• Happy Herringbone -- LAZY (One Panel) Skirting Modification
• Little Miss Derby Jacket -- length modification
• Mega Ruffle Pants to Straight Leg Pants
• Mega Ruffle Pants - Hi-Lo Modification
• Mix&Match: FREE Gathered Skirting Measurements
• Peplum Top -- Nursing Modification
• Peplum Top >> Basic Tee Modification {+ printable pattern}
• Quick Dress & Top -- Boatneck Collar Modification
• Quick Dress & Top -- Cardigan Modification Tutorial
• Quick Dress & top -- Sleeve Cuff Tutorial
• Skater Skirt -- Modification + FREE waistband measurements
• Skinny Pants -- High Waist Modification (Part 1 and Part 2)
• Skinny Pant -- FANTASTIC guide on getting the perfect fit
• Skinny Minnie Riding Pants Modification Tutorial
• Skinny Pants - Flat-Front/Elastic Back Tutorial
• Skinny Pants -- Joggers Tutorial
• Triple Ruffle T-Shirt Dress -- hip length measurements
• Yoga Waistband -- pant modification

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Double Layer Ruffle Skirt

Double Layer Ruffle Skirt is HALF OFF on Wednesday December 26th ONLY !!!

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Simple Shrug

This Wednesday (December 19th) you can get the Simple Shrug for HALF OFF.

One size option (either nb-5t or 6-14) for $4 or both for $6.

Cute curved from and cropped length will keep your girlie's arms cozy without obscuring her shirt or dress too much.  Includes FOUR sleeve options.

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Cap Sleeve A-Line Dres

December 12th only ... get the Cap-Sleeve A-Line Dress for HALF OFF

Half Off Wednesday ... A-Line Shift Dress

December 5th ... half off!!

http://www.jocole.net/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=8_10&products_id=79

HALF OFF Wednesdays ... the Classic Knit Tee

The Classic Knit Tee is an essential part in your pattern collection.  Perfect for layering under jumpers and dresses ... or simply by itself with pants or skirts.  It's fantastic for appliques, embroidery or stenciling.

FREE Thanksgiving Matching Memory Game

I decided to make up a quick matching card game for them. Since it was so quick to make I decided to share it for free. Enjoy!  Happy Thanksgiving !!!

Print game pieces at 100%, make sure that the page scaling is set to "none", and print 2 copies of the page.

Cut off 1/2 from each edge (margins).

Then cut apart the game pieces, they are 2 1/2" square. ENJOY!

I printed ours on cardstock ... I'm sure they would last longer if they were laminated or covered in clear contact paper.

You can find the pdf download HERE.

HALF OFF Wednsesdays ... the Pixie Strip Skirt

Have you tried the Pixie Strip Skirt?  Perfect for mixing and matching fabrics ... I'm thinking you have some cute coordinating christmas fabrics ...

HALF OFF Wednsesdays ... Flounce Ruffle Pants

 Have you tried the Flounce Ruffle Pants?  Everyone who does RAVES about them ... now's your chance.  For today only get the Flounce Ruffle Pants pattern for HALF off !!  What could be better than that?

 the striped pair below was made using super soft and comfy knits ... your little sweetie is going to love and live in these pants!!

NEW pattern ... Basic Empire Bodice

Basic Empire Bodice ... Another Mix&Match pattern that can be combined in endless variations.  Includes 7 different size options (XS through XXXL) and is also available in the smaller sizes (nb through 14).

Sketch shows the bodice combined with the Classic Sleeves (elbow length) and the Radiant A-Line Bottom (tunic length).

NEW Pattern ... Drop and Twirl Circle Skirt

Drop and Twirl Circle Skirt ... features a dropped waist and a full twirly skirt bottom.

Includes 16 different sizes (nb through 14) and three different length options.

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Skinny Minnie Pants

It's Wednesday ... hopefully you know what that means by now ... another HALF OFF pattern ... yup!

This Wednesday (Sept. 26th) it's the Skinny Minnie Pants ...

If you haven't tried these adorable pants yet you're missing out. They have a modern slim, skinny leg fit.  Includes 16 different sizes (nb through14) and 2 different length options.

HALF OFF Wednesday ... Crossover Tunic and Dress

It's time again for another HALF OFF pattern ... are you ready?  This Wednsday (September 19th, 2012) ONLY,  it will be the Crossover Tunic.

You can find the HALF OFF pattern in the FEATURED category every week.

Half Off Wednesday... Ruffle Leggings

OK OK, I know Wednesday already passed ... but I was busy unpacking and trying to recover from moving.  But I still want to share a half price pattern this week.  Tomorrow (FRIDAY, September 14th) ONLY !!!  (next week it will be on wednesday again)

Ruffle Leggings

You can find it in the FEATURED category every week.

Fabric Organization ...

My FAVORITE organizing tool is the "Comic Board" ... unless you are surrounded by nerds like I am you might not know what a comic board is.  It is the board that is stored inside the plastic bag to hold comic books stiff for archival purposes (which is great for fabric ... it's archival quality, so it won't damage your fabric!!  BONUS!)

This isn't my original idea, you can read about it at Smashed Peas and Carrots, the Cottage Home, and Cut to Pieces (plus tutorials on folding fat quarters and other smaller amounts of fabric).

BUUUUUT ... I like to fold mine a bit differently.  It uses 2 comic boards, but you won't have to completely unfold ALL your fabric in order to cut it.  If you only need to cut a 2" strip you'll only have to unroll a little bit ... which I think is FABULOUS!!  Here is how I fold my fabric using comic boards ...

1.  Lay your fabric out, it's folded in half once ... just like it was on the bolt from the store.  Align 1 comic board along the selvages and 1 comic board along the fold ... there will be a space in the middle between the 2 comic board.  I like to leave about 4" on the cut end of the fabric to fold around the boards  (shown on the right side).

2.   Fold the cut end of the fabric around the boards (shown on the right side).

3.  Continue to fold the fabric around the boards until you get closer to the other cut end (shown on the left side).

4.  Fold the cut end over a little bit (shown on the left side).

5.  Fold the folded edge over on top of the other fabric that is wrapped around the comic boards.

6.  Fold the fabric in half, encasing the cut end that was folded over in Step 5 in the middle to secure.

7.  Slide on your shelf with all your other pretty fabrics ... 

You can go to your local comic book shop and pick up a stack of them (and the comic nerd will give you a weird look when you tell him it's for your fabric ... just shrug it off), I picked up a stack of 100 for $8 ... or you can order them by the 100s on Amazon.com for $11-ish

MORE PICTURES ...

Half Off Wednesdays ... Bouncing Bubble Skirt

It's Wednesday again ... and you know what that means ... one pattern will be HALF OFF at jocole.com ... today is the Bouncing Bubble Skirt or Skort ... 

on August 15th (PST) ONLY !!!

You can find it in the FEATURED category every Wednesday.

50% Off Wednesdays ... Mega Ruffle Pants

50% off ... 1 pattern EVERY wednesday ... tomorrow's will be the Mega Ruffle Pants (August 8, 20112 ONLY!)

That pattern will be in the FEATURED category on jocole.com

With 16 sizes and 3 different length options this pattern is PERFECT for every season.

(photography and headbands by Peaches and Brown Sugar Designs)

(Crazy Cute Jumper sewing pattern from Hailey Bugs Closet)

Don't miss out, this promotional price will only be available on August 8th ...

50% off Wednesdays ... Easy Swing Skirt

We're starting a new special promotion at Jocole, EVERY single Wednesday we'll be offering one pattern for 50% off the purchase price ... NO codes necessary. 

That pattern will be in the FEATURED category on jocole.com

Starting Wednesday August 1st, 2012 ... The first one will be the Easy Swing Skirt ...

Have you tried the Easy Swing Skirt? It really is super duper easy ... stop sewing for your kids for a second and sew something awesome for YOU ... you deserve it !!!

Don't miss out, the promotional price will ONLY be available for Wednesday August 1st.

Facebook and Etsy photo dimensions ... reference

FACEBOOK

Coverphoto: 851w x 315h
Profile: 180w x 180h
Custom Tab Photos: 111w x 74h
Shared Photo: 404w x 404h
Highlights & Milestones: 843w x 403h
Tab page: 810w

http://www.jonloomer.com/2012/03/07/dimensions-for-facebook-timeline-for-pages-infographic/#

http://www.handmadeology.com/getting-creative-with-your-facebook-fan-page-timeline-exact-dimensions-examples-and-free-template/

ETSY

Shop Banner:  760w x 100h
About Page Photo: 1024w x 768 h  (760 x 430)
Main image: 570w x 460h (with your item centered within the 460w x 460h)
     if you prefer more detail: 1024w x 768h
Avatar/Profile Photo: 75w x 75h
Team Logo: 170w x 100h

Gallery/Treasury Photos:  170w x 135h or 155w x 125h ... depending on where they are used
Thumbnails: 75w x 75h or 50w x 50h ... depending on where they are used

http://www.etsy.com/help/article/451
http://www.etsy.com/help/article/203

http://kinkymelcat.blogspot.com/2008/07/how-to-create-knockout-photos-for-etsy.html

http://www.gotogreatpanes.com/blog/2010/04/08/image-cropping-for-etsy/

Share the Love ...

Who's ready for another contest?  

Share the love about Jocole.

Tell all your friends, the fan who has the MOST referrals will WIN $50 worth of Jocole Patterns !!!

Here's how it works:     Tell ALL your friends about Jocole on facebook, make sure that when they "like" us and become a fan to tell us WHO sent them.  Contest will run from Saturday July 14th through Friday July 20th at 10 pm PST.

Start sharing the L O V E ...

Mix & Match ... re-mix ...

I just received this picture from my customer, Maria.  She used the Classy Cowlneck Bodice and the Basic Tee Bottom ... both from the Mix & Match series.

To get this look for yourself you'll need to use the front piece for both the front and the back so you have the WIDE neckline from the cowlneck on both sides.  She made hers without sleeves, but you could add Classic Sleeves if you desired.

To get the look of the slim pencil skirt portion of the dress you'll need to lengthen the hip length tee to your desired length (shown below in RED).

ENJOY !!!

Triple Ruffle T-Shirt Dress ... hip-length measurement guide

I was recently asked the question on what the side seam of the shirt you are using for the Triple Ruffle T-Shirt should be.  Obviously the side seams are going to vary when you are using a pre-made store bought shirt.

The following measurements can be used as a guide for the length of a hip-length t-shirt.

T-SHIRT MEASUREMENT GUIDE

The following measurements are in inches.  Length is measured along the side seam, from the armpit to the hem. Sizes are only guides and are based on average measurements.

Please let me know if you have ANY questions.

You can purchase the Triple Ruffle T-Shirt pdf sewing pattern HERE

Winner of Share and Win

Congratulations to Lauren, her comment was number 11 on the Share and Win post.

Share and you may WIN

Who's ready for a CONTEST?  To coincide with the release of the Happy Herringbone Dress I've decided to give one away!

Here's how it works:  Go to our Facebook fan page, you'll find a link to our pattern with a description pinned to the top of the page.  Copy the description, click "share" and paste the description as YOUR description, make sure you tag Jocole.

Then come back here and comment that you shared it.

**Due to facebook settings and restrictions private profiles will not show up as sharing, so you must come back here to comment for it to be entered into the contest.

Open until Monday July 9th at 10pm (PST), after which I'll use random.org to pick one number and the winning comment will win a copy of the Happy Herringbone Dress (or another pattern of your choice).

What are you waiting for?  Go SHARE ...

the Happy Herringbone Dress

Introducing the Happy Herringbone Dress ...

A super cute halter dress featuring an empire bodice with an elastic back and a pieced herringbone style skirt.  Bodice is fully lined for comfort.

Two length options: tunic or dress.

It's fun to mix and match prints and colors.  Perfect for coordinating fabrics or even using up scraps and fat quarters.

Skill Level:  Intermediate.  Definitely not for beginners, but easier than you might think.  The results are worth the extra effort.

16 sizes included:  nb-16, and including the doll size.

Quick, what are you waiting for?  You can purchase it HERE, or in any of our BUNDLE PACKS for more savings.

NEW pattern release ...

I'm actively editing a new pattern.  It is a woven dress and SUPER duper cute!  I'll admit it is definitely categorized as intermediate (NOT beginner) ... but oh my word is it worth the extra effort.

It will be released on Friday, July 7th ... I can't wait to share it with you.  

Sneak peek of my fabric choice above ... this dress was worthy to be cut in Joel Dewberry's Modern Meadow coordinates ... LOVE!