The Victim, The Vinyl, & The Machine

Getting closer...

Normally I am a do-it-to-it kinda girl.  I was that annoying girl that finished her 12-page paper the weekend after it was assigned, and then offered to help others write theirs (or completely write theirs for McDonalds gift certificates -- seriously, I used to be hooked!).  But with this sewing project, I feel like my heels are dragging in the mud.  It's because I'm so nervous! Remember your first sewing project?  Ahhh!  I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders!  But, I did accomplish configuring the measurements, buying the vinyl and other needs, and taking some (albeit not the best) pictures to show. 

So my daughter's wooden table is the victim for my project (purchased ON CLEARANCE at Walmart -- $20 off original price just because of a dented box!!  Ha!!).  Anyway, the tabletop is 20.5" x 21.25" x 1".  Oh, and I decided not to do the seat cushions at this point since I feel so overwhelmed by the tablecloth alone.

After Pre-Preschool this morning (it was costume day, and yes, I did crochet the Pebbles costume and make the Halloween bow for her -- I actually made a whole WIG for her too, but she won't keep it on!!), we went to our local fabric store to chose the vinyl for the tablecloth.  They didn't have the widest selection, so I bought the cutest one -- a bright blue backdrop with strawberries and leaves patterned on top.  I allowed for an inch on all sides for the seam.  I also bought 1/4" elastic (it's going to be a fitted tablecloth), matching thread, and safety pins.  With my coupon, it cost around $10 for everything.

And lastly, I opened the box to my new sewing machine!  It's a basic model (perfect for me since I'm a beginner).  I read the manual (like 5x) and watched the DVD to help me learn how to work everything.  It's pretty straightforward and uncomplicated. But as a note, make sure you follow the directions carefully, as I almost had a heart attack because I thought my machine didn't have this threading component.  I actually started panicking and felt the tears well up (for like a second) because I thought I was going to have to go all the way back to Walmart to make an exchange!  But, alas, it was my own error.  Machine is good to go!

Keep tuned...this project will be done by the weekend!