From Boring to Bling!

I got an idea from a blog I frequent on a cardigan make-over. I didn't wish to make the cardigan over with as big of a ribbon detail as what they had shown, but used the directions to take something boring to exciting....not only did I get the cardigan but I was able to make a pretty headband as well.

I started with a size 12 shirt with some beading... I had picked it up at Goodwill for $2.50 just for this project. I was very lucky to find exactly what I wanted within seconds of being there instead of shuffling down the aisles thinking "OMG why am I here?" *This is my normal thought process!

The project went fairly quickly, the longest part being the spacing of the pleating detail. I suggest not doing it on the couch with a dog trying desperately to get into your lap.

I am quite pleased with the results. It is something I will definitely do again, with the same larger pleated detail and ribbon from the original tutorial. *Ignore the lovely t-shirt under the cardigan... I didn't think when I was taking the picture last night -oops-

The best part, which I didn't anticipate, was the freebie headband I was able to produce from the beading. I simply removed it from the shirt, added some fusible fleece to give it some extra heft, then added a backing of the same silk material. I created a small tube of the silk, added some elastic, and sewed it on so it would stay snugly on my head.

Its rather lovely, I think. :)