All Posts By

sarah norwood

Supply De-stash

Lingerie, Sales, Sewing Patterns May 18, 2018

I’ve been meaning to do this for a while… I’m having a supply de-stash in my Etsy Pattern Shop!

I’ve been in the lingerie-making business for EIGHT years. It’s actually hard to believe! It feels like just yesterday I was working two jobs, desperately hoping (and working my butt off) for Ohhh Lulu to catch on…

Over those eight years I’ve bought a lot of supplies. I live in a small town, so I do most of my supply shopping online. Sometimes I buy things that aren’t quite what I needed. I usually throw those into a box and wait and see if the need for them arrises…

I finally decided to go through that box. This is just a small selection of what I have! If I have the time and energy, I may post some more.

I had a lot of fun photographing these items! Lately I’ve really gotten into UV Resin crafting, creating glittery faux-crystals (I’m actually prototyping some pattern weights), and I had fun using them in the background…

I posted all of these things last night and I know a few have already sold out, so get ’em while you can!

You can shop my supply de-stash HERE.

Oh, and one last thing! To celebrate the long weekend, I’m offering 15% off all PDF sewing patterns! Offer expires on Monday, May 21, Midnight. Discounts are already applied in my Etsy shop, but you can use coupon code LongWeekend15 if shopping directly here!

So much new

Design Diary, Lingerie, New Items April 21, 2018

Typical me. I’ve refreshed my Lingerie Shop with so many new pieces and I totally forgot to write about them.

I really love this new collection. I love how versatile and comfortable all of the pieces are. I had a lot of fun preparing product descriptions and infusing each piece with a little bit of storytelling and history.

One of the things I’m most excited about is the fact that some of the fabrics I’ve used were designed by me specifically for this collection. I gathered vintage florals and other magical elements to create custom prints that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.  In a previous life time, I worked for a textile design studio, so this was a fun project for me and a bit of a trip down memory lane. It’s definitely something I’d like to do more of and collaborate with other artists on.

I had a lot of fun photographing this collection. I pulled out my old set of runes, pendulum and crystals.  I’m actually a skeptic and don’t believe in divination, but I do believe in the power of the mind! I also made use of a vintage shawl I seem to have acquired from my mom (hope she doesn’t want it back because it’s mine now!), and an antique fringed cardigan.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was really inspired by themes of earthy-magic and witchcraft.  I’ve incorporated traditional Victorian Florals with dark backgrounds and geometric elements.  I really love these prints. They’re a bit of a throwback to my teenage romanti-goth days.

I’ve added a few different harnesses to my shop that can be layered over these basic pieces.  I love these because it’s an easy way to dress up a simple style or add a layer of intrigue to a floral bra.

I’m really happy with how these pieces came together. They are pretty with just a bit of an edge, comfortable, and easy to wear. My perfect lingerie trifecta!

You can shop the Nightshade, Midsummer and Elemental ranges on Etsy.

 

This weekend, sleep masks ship free!

Anxiety, Lingerie, Sales April 19, 2018

Some of you might remember me talking about my struggles with insomnia. It was really something that was brought about by my uncontrolled anxiety but I had dealt with it for so long that I just figured it was the hand I had been dealt.

I still hate using the word “anxiety” to describe what I was going through for most of my life. It wasn’t just that feeling you have before a job interview, it was the feeling like someone was going to die imminently and I had to prepare in every possible way to prevent catastrophe from happening. It was also visualizing those things happening, with absolutely no control… and worst of all, it was dreaming about all of those terrible things happening. You know when people casually say, “what’s the worst that could happen?” Well, let me tell you, because I’ve thought of every possible terrible scenario! Ha!

The wonderful thing about realizing that this wasn’t a normal state of being, was realizing that I could get help, and that I could stop feeling that way. One of the best things about getting help is finally being able to sleep. I still have the occasional nightmare and sleepless night, but these days my sleeplessness is usually brought on by dog farts or a screaming 3 year old.

All of that being said, I’m still tired! Isabel is not a good sleeper, and I’m usually the one who gets up with her. Just last night we were up at midnight, at 3, at 4, and finally at ten to six. And this is after a busy day at work/daycare, regular mom/life stuff, and swimming lessons, which I have to participate in!

I was thinking… with Mother’s Day approaching, what would I really like to receive? Well a day at the spa and a massage would be amazing, but even just the opportunity to sleep would be pure perfection.

So, I thought I’d try to pass it on. I’m offering Free Shipping on all sleep masks ordered between April 19-22. 

I’ve been making sleep masks for a few years now, and through trial and error and customer feedback, I think I’ve developed the perfect mask. You now have the choice between 100% silk or cotton lining in either black or ivory. All masks come with two internal layers of soft cotton batting, and a secret layer of black cotton for extra light protection.

You can shop through all of my sleep masks Here.

And, if you’re more keen to make your own, check out my free Kitty Sleep Mask Pattern and Clara Pattern!

 

 

The Hyacinth Bralette Expansion Pack

Design Diary, Lingerie, New Items, Sewing Patterns April 17, 2018

I’m happy to see lots of Hyacinth Bralettes popping up on Instagram and in the facebook group!

One of my favourite things to do with a pattern is figure out all of the different ways I can style it. The Hyacinth has such simple style lines that it really adapts well to many different variations!

Today, I’ve released an Expansion Pack for the Hyacinthe Bralette Pattern. This Pack includes lace overlay pieces, several back variations, as well as in depth instructions, including how to finish the neckline with fold over elastic instead of lace.

One of my surprise favourites is this keyhole cut out variation. I felt ho-hum about it when I was finishing up my first sample, but when I put it on, it just felt amazing to wear! It’s funny how designs can change based on how you feel in them. I paired this variation with my Justine Panties. I often forget how much I love this pattern. The minute I put this set on I felt like a million bucks.

 

I also really love the simplicity of the plain racerback variation. It’s reminiscent of my Josephine Pattern, but with the plain front. I really like how this style of back feels. For me, its super comfortable and conforms to the curves and angles of my back. I paired this version with a simple pair of Claudia’s.

The Celeste Panties make a great pairing with the Hyacinth Bralette. They are my go-to for everyday undies.

Without a doubt, though, this variation is my favourite. It’s the most forgiving and gives a great fit due to the adjustable nature of the strapping.

I decided to pair it with my Ava Panties, and sewed both pieces out of a mini-fish net. The inner goth in me loves it so much!

Get the Expansion Pack Here! Friendly reminder that you will also need to download the Free Hyacinth Bralette Pattern.

A FREE Bralette Pattern

Design Diary, Giveaway, New Items, Sewing Patterns, Tutorial April 3, 2018

Guess what?

I have a new pattern! And the best part is, it’s FREE!

The Hyacinth Bralette is a super simple pattern. It’s just two pieces and only requires a small amount of fabric, making it the perfect scrap buster. If you are new to sewing, with a bit of experience working with knits, this is the perfect project for you. If you’re a more experienced sewer, the Hyacinth will be a quick yet rewarding sew.

 

I’ve posted two videos on YouTube. One will walk you through how to alter the Hyacinth Bralette for a larger cup size (a D+), and the other walks you through the general construction. You can check those out here.

This bralette isn’t designed for support. It’s meant to be a light garment, ideal for smaller cup sizes, or as lounge wear. I think it would also make a great bikini top.

The instructions provided with the pattern will walk you through how to add lace trim to the neckline, band elastic along the lower edge, fold over elastic around the side and back upper edges, as well as how to sew adjustable straps. This pattern is developed for stretch knits. I like something with about 5% spandex for stretch and recovery.

I’ll be releasing an expansion pack for the Hyacinth Bralette very soon which will include several back variations as well as lace overlay options. I’m super excited about it and have had so much fun working on all of the samples….!

Get your free copy of the basic Hyacinth Bralette here. And stay tuned for the expansion pack!

Ohhh Lulu for Girls?

Baby, Dogs, New Items, Sewing Patterns, Videos March 23, 2018

I reluctantly decided upon parenthood. I was always more the “cool aunt” type but I’ve got to admit, I love being a parent and 3 year olds, despite their tantrums and attitude, are pretty awesome. One of the things I love most about having a kid, is sewing for kids!!!

When Izzy started potty training (glad that’s a thing of the past), I started making her her own undies (naturally). A couple years ago for Christmas, I made her up a bunch of matching cami and underwear sets. She really loved them and I did too. So recently, I decided to dive into the world of childrens pattern grading. I have ZERO experience grading for kids, so this was an endeavour for me!

The patterns aren’t quite ready yet, but they will be soon. I wanted to give a little sneak peek of what you can expect.

Izzy is kind of (ok, seriously) obsessed with YouTube videos. The other day she was quietly playing by herself, chatting away, when I caught her say “Let me know in the comments!” She was acting out her own little video. What a ham. So I asked her if she wanted to co-host one of mine, which she did. So, here it is. We talk about chickens. Izzy loves chickens. Our new puppy Leah also makes a guest appearance.


Speaking of puppy, look at her! I took a few photos a few weeks ago and she has already changed so much! Her ears are entirely pointy now and she’s getting quite the little personality. She’s a snuggler, but a bit bossy around Oliver. I’m looking forward to starting training classes with her soon.

Join the Ohhh Lulu Pattern Group on Facebook

Sewing Patterns February 9, 2018

I’ve had lots of people message me to see if I had a facebook group for my patterns… so I’ve finally made one!

This is a private group. I want this to be a warm, welcoming, body positive environment where we can all feel comfortable sharing our intimate makes. This can also be a place where we all can learn from one another.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions… no matter how simple it may seem, everyone starts somewhere.

Head on over to Facebook to join the group.

Fixing common bra fit issues and other lingerie sewing tips

Tutorial February 8, 2018

For the past few months I’ve been contributing to the Craftsy blog, writing posts on how to sew lingerie. These posts are not specific to my own line of lingerie sewing patterns, but applicable to most lingerie sewing projects.

As I mentioned in a previous post, this doesn’t detract from the tutorials and sewing content I plan on providing here, it’s just an extra resource. I’m really enjoying the challenge of writing these posts for Craftsy!

I thought I’d provide a quick run down and links of some of my recent posts.

Quick Fixes for 4 Common Bra Fit Issues

From straps that fall down to cups that overfloweth, I provide some simple solutions to a few common problems.

 

Getting the Right Cup Size on Handmade Lingerie

Should be easy, right?

It’s one of the biggest challenges I have as a lingerie maker. Breasts vary a lot from person to person (hey, sometimes even from left to right). I wrote this post as a starting point.  Bra fitting is an art, not a science, and at the end of the day it doesn’t matter what number or letter size you settle on, it’s that you have a garment that is comfortable.

How to Sew 2 Types of Decorative Elastic for Lingerie

Sewing lingerie involves some specialized skills. In this post I review how to sew picot edge and band elastic.

Choosing & Using 2 Common Fabrics for Lacy Lingerie

Working with lace can be tricky, but there are some things you can do to make the process easier. This post covers working with all-over stretch lace as well as scalloped stretch lace.

Save this post for later! Pin the image below.

Welcome home

Baby, Dogs, Personal February 8, 2018

When I brought home Oliver 10 years ago I was living alone in Toronto. I had a beautiful corner apartment on Eglinton Avenue with lovely old hardwood floors and black and white tiled bathroom. I had just broken up with my live-in boyfriend and was on my own. It wasn’t my first time living on my own in the city, but it was the first time I felt like I was really doing it on my own. I’m pretty proud of that time of my life.

Oliver very quickly became the absolute love of my life. How can you not fall in love with a little pug-baby? That squishy face is only topped by his hilarious personality. That dog went everywhere with me.

Oliver and I have been through so much together. We’ve been through really hard times… Really, really shitty things. We’ve also done really fun things. Road trips, hikes, camping trips (not his favourite), Christmas dinners, my wedding… He has just been the best companion.

Over the last year Oliver has really started to show his age. It breaks my heart to even consider the fact that one day I’m going to wake up and he’s not going to be there to greet me with a snort and a sneeze. That’s the worst part about dogs. You know that one day they won’t be able to be with you any more.

I now have to carry him up and down stairs, carry him outside to go pee, and follow him around the house looking for accidents since the poor guy can’t seem to control his hind end anymore. I don’t mind the extra work, but I hate to see his body failing. It breaks my heart.

Isabel turned 3 in October. I can’t believe she’ll be starting school in the fall. This is about the time most parents start thinking about adding a second child to their family. We think about it. I think about it a lot. The truth is, it took a long time for Isabel to come into this world, and although I wouldn’t say we’re “trying” (more like, “trying to not care about trying”) I’m skeptical that a second babe is in our future…

Kids aren’t something I thought I’d ever have. I always pictured myself independent, on my own, more of the “cool aunt” type. But Isabel is my life and I’m so glad I decided to give parenthood a try.  A second baby would be warmly welcomed but I’m also 100% happy with how life is now. More so, I feel concern for Isabel. Any parent, or prospective parent knows, the pressure you feel from the world, from unwanted advice, always makes you question your abilities and choices. I always hear, “You can’t only have one!” and “I know an only-child and she has so many issues!” (Full disclosure: the only-children I know are all wildly successful individuals who I really admire. My best friend growing up, my cousin who is like my sister, a friend of my husband who is a wicked mom and runs an art gallery…) Although I’m happy with Isabel, who is my life and my world, I worry that she’ll be missing out on having a sibling.

This leads me to Leah.

I had been wanting a puppy for a while and am always researching breeds and checking out shelters, but I was concerned about how a puppy would get on with Oliver, who has mobility issues and is generally a grump around other dogs.  But when we saw some Boston Terrier/Pug mix puppies come up locally we decided to jump at the opportunity.

Sure, a puppy isn’t a substitute for a sibling, but I know from experience that dogs are the best companion anyone could ask for. And I know that Olivers time is coming… maybe not for a while, but it’s on the horizon, and I’m not sure how I’d get out of bed if not for a little wet nose nudging me out for a walk.

So here she is! Little Leah. Isabel named her. She’s pretty sweet… 3/4 boston and 1/4 pug. She’s a lazy little thing who has quick bursts of energy. She’s funny, incredibly snuggly and loves to be carried. I’m looking forward to the bitey-puppy stage to come to an end, but I’m enjoying the puppy snuggles. Oliver is doing pretty good, although Leah really wishes he would play with her. I often catch them snuggling together during nap time. She’s a smart little thing and already knows how to “sit” though potty training is going a little slow… We start some training classes soon.

The puppy has made things a little extra busy around here but I’m fortunate enough to be home all day with her most days. She has settled in really well to our little family. I’m looking forward to spring and teaching her to run with me.

It’s Magick.

Design Diary, Lingerie, New Items, Personal, updates, Videos February 5, 2018

Something you may not know about me is that I am obsessed with the creepier side of life… although I’m a skeptic, I just love ghost stories and the like. I also love history, specifically women’s history.

As an aside, my favourite movie as a kid was Beetlejuice and I basically styled myself after Lydia Deets (which is now my cats name, you’ll see her in the video).

These interests have been with me for as long as I can remember. As a teenager it led me into learning about wicca and the history of (western) witchcraft. It’s all fascinating stuff. More recently, I’ve become obsessed with Victorian Spiritualism. Spectral photography, spirit boards, table tipping… it’s all so eerily beautiful.

I think about how witchcraft was used as a tool to silence women who dared to step outside the confines of what was deemed “appropriate behaviour.” It’s a sad, scary, fascinating part of our history. It serves as a metaphor for so many instances throughout history and our lives.

I also love the meaning we imbue on objects, like a certain type of flower or crystal or card. I don’t believe a chunk of rock intrinsically has any power, but the meaning we place in it is a powerful thing.

One of the things that draws me to these topics, I think, is my weird obsession of death. It scares me. Terrifies me. I’m not really a spiritual person myself. I don’t actually believe in an afterlife, but I wish I did. The thing that draws me to spiritualism and magick is the possibility of something else. We all want that don’t we?

Loss and death is what a lot of my anxiety tends to revolve around.  I know I’m getting better because I spend a lot less time thinking about it than I used to. Now I think of it in a, “It’s interesting how people used to be drawn to Spiritualism as a way to deal with the ever present threat of death,” instead of just being terrifyingly aware of my own, and everyone around me, mortality.

I have to laugh a bit because this post makes me seem pretty dark. I’m not. These are just the things that interest me. They always have. I’ve always been a weird woman! It’s actually something I really like about myself. And I know if it were  500 years ago, I’d probably be burned at the stake (HA!).

In my personal life, I tend to thrive on a bit of a low-key routine. Creatively, I like to push my boundaries and try new things. I enjoy the physical process of learning a new skill or technique. I also like the adrenaline rush when I put something “new” out into the world. I’m feeling that with this post and the little teaser video I made. It’s so strange to see myself, moving and looking back at me! But I like how it came together, and I wanted to show how my pieces move and look in as close to “real life” as I can get over a computer. I feel slightly scared, and a little excited. It’s basically my favourite combination of feelings!

You’ll be seeing new items pop up in my shop over the next day or two. I’ll be releasing some of these pieces as sewing patterns as well, so stay tuned!

You can see some more of what’s been inspiring me over on Pinterest. I always make a little “inspiration” board when I’m working on new things.

Sources via Pinterest