Sew Americana Blog Tour

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I love July and the chance to celebrate this beautiful country of mine.  I was thrilled to jump on board the Sew Americana Tour by Wild & Wanderful and the chance it gave me to sew up these beauties in honor of the 4th.

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It also meant another darling photo shoot with the cutest two-year-old around!

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Sophie is sporting a Mingo and Grace Charlie Dress.  It’s done in a drapey poly rayon from Hancock’s.  I did a bodice facing instead of bias tape and love the clean finish it gave.

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I played with the stripe directions for a little twist and we both just adore this dress.

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It just suits her so well!

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I went sweet and simple with this one in a Violette Fields Adelaide.

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I’ve got ALL the heart eyes for that back!

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And gingham and floral should get married, I think 😉

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My sister sewed her cute little miss the Evie Pleated Suspender Shorts from Made for Mermaids.

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Isn’t that bow back just divine?!!

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I think we’re going to have serious Morgan withdrawals when she heads back home after the summer.  Cousins really are the best!

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I love these looks together and how they fit their personalities so well!

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Take a look at the AMAZING lineup for the Sew Americana tour!

Monday, June 27 

Wild & Wanderful | Sew and Tell Project | Call Ajaire

Paisley Roots | Wally and Grace

Tuesday, June 28

Sew Thrifty | Coles Corner and Creations | Rebel & Malice

Friends Stitched Together | The Wholesome Mama

Wednesday, June 29

Sewing by Ti | EYMM | HattieLu Handmade

Daydream Believers | PenSebRox | Handmade Boy

Thursday, June 30

Beatnik Kids | Phat Quarters | Sew Starly | Sew Sophie Lynn

The Kisses Co. | Adventures with Bubba and Bug

Friday, July 1

Very Blissful | That’s Sew Kari | Sew Happily Ever After | Pear Berry Lane

Mae and K
 | Musings of a Seamstress | Sew and Tell Project

As a special bonus for our readers, use the code ‘ SEWAMERICANA ‘ and enjoy a 20% discount at www.THREADandGRAIN.com  You’ll find a ton of maker-inspired goodies!

(All created by your tour guide, Katy, from Wild & Wanderful.)

Kids Clothes Week- Black and White Edition

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This round of Kids Clothes Week has snuck up on me again.  It came at the perfect time though as this girly is in desperate need of some summer play clothes.

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We’re beefing up on basics this week and we started with a few tees and a couple shorts.

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Every year I make a batch of KID Shorts from Made Everyday.  I fell in love with this crazy print at Joann’s last year and these retro shorts were perfect for it.

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I added 2 inches to the girls racer hemline.  Next time we will add an inch or two to the rise- my tall skinny girl is so hard to fit sometimes!

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I love it paired with the new City Park tee that’s in testing from Hey June.

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She got two of those this week so far and I’m sure they will become a summer staple.  When the pattern releases I’ll give you all the glorious details!

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I used CLUB fabrics french terry to make a quick E+M Top #27 (a FREEEEEE pattern!).

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It’s a super quick sew that I’ll for sure make again.  I’m not loving it in this thicker french terry but it’s super cozy and will definitely get worn.

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I’ve got grown-up pattern testing going on but I’m hoping to squeeze in a few more things for little miss.  I’m really wishing KCW and the end of the school year were not coinciding- anyone else going crazy with end of the year madness?!!  My little guy is officially done today so there goes my kid free mornings. Naptime will be even more precious these days!

Make sure you check out the KCW blog to be blown away with inspiration- it’s my favorite!

A Maxi for Sophie

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It’s rare that I get to sew just because but ever since I got this fabric it’s been calling to me.

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I knew when I saw it that it would become a maxi skirt for Soph.  The colors and print are so bright and totally her.

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The top is a Lil Zippy top from See Kate Sew in a mystery rayon blend from Hancock’s.  I love the almost neon color of it too!

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For the skirt I used Mingo and Grace’s Crop Top Set as my base.  I lengthened the skirt and I used the width of fabric instead of the skirt pattern piece.  The skirt fabric is also from Hancock’s (man, I’m going to miss their apparel fabric deals!).

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I love the drama of this outfit but also that it’s comfy and practical enough for church on Sundays.  She wore this to church and didn’t want to take it off the rest of the day.  Maxi’s are the best for Sunday lounging!

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This is totally another outfit I’m wishing I’d made in my own size.  If only I didn’t need twice as much fabric…

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I loved this shoot!  We drove past this little water feature a few days ago and she immediately said, “That’s perfect for a photo shoot.  I really want to do my skirt pictures there!”  Is she a pro or what?!!

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And this my friends, is why I sew!  She’s thrilled with her new outfit and I couldn’t be happier!

 

Gracie Dress by Blaverry

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I’ve shown you amazing, intermediate projects from Blaverry here and here but today I’m happy to feature an easy, quick sew- the Gracie Dress.

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It’s a cute, raglan-sleeve knit dress with a drop waist and fun little skirt hem.

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The kangaroo pocket in the front is a darling detail.

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For our version I got to play with the brand new Club line from Raspberry Creek Fabrics.

I used the aqua abstract floral for the skirt and it matched so perfect with the berry heathered french terry from the shop too (currently out of stock but will be in soon).

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The finishing in the pattern is superb.  It has a bound neckline like the Finn but I chose to use the back of my french terry for the neckline and did a simple t-shirt neckband.  It did make it wider than the intended finish but I think it’s great for this sporty look.

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We are desperately in need of more everyday clothes so this pattern was perfect.  It’s a quick sew and will be great for school.

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If you’re unfamiliar with Blaverry patterns, I have a few tips.  They are concise so the instructions are not overwhelming.  This can be hard if you’re new to a technique (google is your friend!) but also keeps the pattern steps clear and easy.  I’m also glad I have my models handy because fitting kids can be tricky.  This is a straight size 7 on my tall skinny girl and it fits great.  I would trim an inch or two from the main dress if I made this for my more standard size younger daughter. I do get the pattern for free but I have been so happy with all of my Blaverry finished projects.

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Join the Blaverry Facebook Group to see more fun Gracie dresses this week.  Join the Raspberry Creek Facebook Group to see more Club line previews, too!

Lil Luxe Maxi Dress

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This sweet girl is outgrowing all her dresses which is fabulous for little sis and means I get to make new Sunday clothes- sounds like a win-win all around.

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She requested a maxi dress and was drawn to this lovely blue floral linen I’ve had in my stash for awhile.  I knew the Lil Luxe Dress from Lil Luxe Collection would be just what she envisioned.

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I personalized this pattern a couple ways.

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First, I raised the scoop in the back by two inches.  While I love the scoop back, I wanted it a bit more modest to wear to church and it was a super easy modification.

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The sleeves are supposed to be lined but my fabric was a little thicker and I didn’t want to add extra bulk.

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My skirt is just one piece, the width of the fabric.  Not so much a design choice as a lack of fabric thing.

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I absolutely love this dress and she does too.  I’ve got another one planned for little sis and know it will be a go to pattern for dresses and tops in the future.

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A little behind the scenes on this shoot- Snow was forecast for the next day so as soon as she got home from school we did a quick fitting.  I had to take it in a bit and hem it up before rushing her to the park between her after school commitments.

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The lining may or may not be safety pinned down 😉  A girl’s got to do what a girl’s got to do!  Tell me you’ve had those moments too, right?!!

The key to all the smiles this shoot was having her bestie along.  Cutest little friends!

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I highly recommend this fun pattern and make sure you check out the ladies version too!

Happy Easter from SewSophieLynn

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Happy Easter from my family to yours.

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Easter is such a special time of year.  Spring is in the air and with that the world is full of hope.  Hope for warmer weather, new life, and a feeling of renewal.

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It also brings a feeling of gratitude. I’m so grateful for this little family of mine and for all my little everyday blessings.

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It was so fun for these cute sisters to get dressed this morning.  You can read more about their dresses here and here.

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I didn’t get to share these sweet sister pics so they’re my Easter gift to you (hopefully the Easter bunny brought you some chocolate too ;)!

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I hope your day is filled with faith, family, and lots of yummy food!  Happy Easter!

Naples Tunic by Jennuine Designs

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*This post contains affiliate links.

When Jennifer from A Jennuine Life contacted me about an upcoming blog tour for the *Naples Dress I was thrilled at the opportunity to join in!

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A little background in case you’ve ever wondered how I decide which kid to sew for, this is the dealeo- Payton is my standard size kiddo and she gets most of the pattern tests because of this.  Sophie is tall and skinny and the reason I started sewing for my kids in the first place (hence the blog name).  I love being able to custom fit pieces for her.  Both girls have totally different tastes which makes it super fun to dress them!

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I showed both girls all the pictures I could find under #naplesdress and it was love, love for my playful, girly Payton (You’ll get to see her version next week on the Naples Dress Blog Tour- stay tuned because it’s awesome!).

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This one needed a little more convincing and I knew a flowy rayon challis version would be right up her alley.

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And boy, was I right!

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It’s just edgy enough to satisfy her and still sweet too!

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I did the wide bow version and I love the bit of drama it brings.

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This is the size 7 a-line tunic length with about 2 inches added to accommodate her height.

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I used the bell sleeve piece but cut it on the 2t line to make it not as full and flared.

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I don’t think I could love this top anymore- it’s just perfect!!

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She’s pretty thrilled with it too and that’s really all that matters.

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I love the vintage feel of this pattern and think she looks like she just stepped out of an episode of Three’s Company (haha).

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Ok, more pattern details- It comes in sizes newborn to 12 and features a darling bias bound crossover bodice.

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There are a few neckline options- a simple bias bow, a button closure, and this wide bow tie.  There are also two body options- a-line and gathered.

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And  you’ve got multiple options for sleeves- sleeveless, two bell sleeve lengths, and wide flowy butterfly sleeves.  It also has dress and tunic lengths. AND there’s an 18-inch doll version, holy cuteness (I’ve got one for you next week- eek)!

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Options, options, options!

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This was one of the quickest photo shoots ever- squeezed in between her orthodontist appointment and play practice.  I absolutely adore these pics though and love her cute little braces smile!

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Stay tuned next week for the Naples Dress Blog Tour.  There are so many amazingly talented bloggers sewing up this pattern.  I’m so excited to see what they create and to be wowed with inspiration.  Thank you Jenn for such a fun pattern.

An Easter Blaverry Vivie

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It’s almost Easter which means new Spring dresses are popping up everywhere.

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The Vivie by Blaverry was perfect for this girl.

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Sewn in gorgeous floral it just screams spring time to me.

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Christie at Blaverry is so good at pushing me out of my comfort zone.  This was my first collar and button placket and… I came, I saw, and I conquered it!!!

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This dress pairs perfectly with the Decklyn Jacket by Blaverry making this outfit one I am truly proud of.

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So many sewing fears tackled in one glorious pairing.

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Blaverry patterns are very concise and well written.  There is no hand holding for those looking for it but that makes for a short, simple tutorial that isn’t overwhelming.

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This pattern features front and back darts that make it easy to get a custom fit on your little model.

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Inseam pockets are always a plus too!

It’s such a sweet, classic pattern that I’m looking forward to making again and again.

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Now let’s talk about that ah-mazing fabric!! It’s Art Gallery’s Forest Floor line that I picked up from Raspberry Creek Fabrics (this is currently sold out but linked to another great print from the same line).

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It’s buttery soft and sewed up just beautifully.  It’s the perfect weight for this pattern and I felt totally spoiled working with it.

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I feel like my job as a mom who sews is to make my children feel comfortable and beautiful in the clothes I make for them.  To see the joy this dress brought to my cute girly is totally the reason I sew.

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I love the sophistication of the dress but this picture reminds me that she’s still my sweet little girl.

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Make sure to check out Blaverry and the Blaverry Facebook Group for lots of great inspiration.  Keep an eye out for more amazing Vivie’s in the group.  You can see my other Blaverry projects here and here.  Check out Pear Berry Lane’s darling gingham version too!

EYMM Freestyle Harem Tour

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I’ve got a thing for blog tours- I can’t pass one up!  An excuse to sew and a fun group of seamstresses is enough to make me giddy!

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I’m happy to be a stop on the Freestyle Harem Blog Tour by EYMM.  I’ve got a great coupon code for you at the end of the post so keep on reading friends…

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We’re prepping for Spring here and sewed up a capri version of the Freestyle Harem Pants.

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I used a lightweight knit from my stash and it was perfect for these pants.

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These pants are made for moving and grovin’!

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Or standing on your head… (Man, I wish I could still do that!)

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They’re stylin’ for a day out with friends…

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And perfect for running and playing at home too!  Comfy and cute is what we do around here.

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I like them because they are cool enough for my tween but modest and cute enough for my tastes too!  Seems like a hard balance to find these days.

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The pattern features a couple of flat front waistband options…

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With multiple rows of elastic in the back.  There are also shorts and pants versions and a variety of cuff choices too.  You know how I love me some options!

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They’re the perfect spring pants!  Can you feel the sunshine already?!

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Thanks for dropping by our neck of the woods.  Make sure to check out the other bloggers coming your way the rest of the week.  And stop by EYMM and look around a bit!  This was my first official EYMM make but it definitely won’t be the last!

Make sure to check out the rest of the Freestyle Harems Blog Tour during the next week. (Note: The links below won’t be live until their scheduled date.)

March 9 – Joelle at EYMM

March 10 – Patricia from Sew Far North

March 11 – Tami from Sew Sophie Lynn

March12 – Kelly from Analog Bytes

March 13 – Lore from Blessed x Five

March 14 – Larissa from Connected by a Thread

March 15 – Aimee from Capture, Craft, and Cook

During the blog tour, you can get the Freestyle Harem Pants on sale! Use code FREESTYLE to save 25% on the women’s or youth sizing or on the bundle, expires at 11:59pm PST on 3/15/2016.

Exciting News from Hey June Handmade

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I’m so excited the day is finally here to share yet another great Hey June Handmade pattern.  The Camden Tee is the tween/teen version of my favorite pattern, the Lane Raglan.

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All that snow in the background means I’ve been waiting a LONG time to share this exciting news!

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This will be the first pattern in Adrianna’s new teen line, Hey Juniors- YES!!!

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My girls are quickly outgrowing many designers patterns and I think there is such a need out there to fill the gap between little girls and women’s patterns.  I’m so happy one of my favorite designers is up for the challenge!

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The fit of this tee is so great on my tall, skinny little miss.  This is a size 8, long sleeve version in Raspberry Creek‘s first Club line.

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All my versions so far have been basic tees but there is a hoodie option as well as thumb hole cuffs and kangaroo pocket.  Sleeve stripes add to the sporty vibe too.

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A pocket pattern piece is included too but I’m so lazy that I can’t pass up the pre-made iron-on ones from Jo-Ann’s or Hobby Lobby.  In silver sequins it was just perfect to bring out the silver sparkles in the sleeves. (Btw- these pockets have washed up beautifully!)

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This pattern is perfect for all those iron-on decals out there too!

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Make sure you pick up your copy here on sale for $6.50 through Sunday.  And keep an eye out for more good things coming from Hey June!