As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It's been a while! long enough that I've even missed blogging and reading the blogs I used to frequent - will try and get back to that.

I have been productive though!
It all started when I was helping the Sunrise Rotary Club sew fabric sanitary pads for the school girls in the Dominican Republic. After seeing how awesome the project - my mom suggested we make some for the Syrian refugees too. Between the Muslim Moms of Durham Region, four ladies in Mississauga, the non-profit organization Fiysabiylillah, donations from Joyce, Meghan and the store Lingerie 4 U - we were able to complete that project. AlhumduliLlah.

I hope this post encourages others to make them, and send them to women around the globe that need them. It's something not many people thing of, but is very much needed. I hope to carry on this project, and help others - if you're interested in joining me, or can help with donations please contact me.

Here is the pattern we used, if the link doesn't work - please email me directly at amtullah79@yahoo.ca
Pattern and Instructions

We managed to make 234 kits all together. Each kit had one shield, five liners and one underwear.









Thanks to all the members of the Muslim Moms in Durham for their donations, sewing help, encouragement and financial help.

Labels: help, sewing

As-salaamu'alaykum wa RahmatuLlahi wa Barakatuhu

Just an update!!
Remember that $200 we (you and I) were putting together to feed the needy in Kenya, during the month of Ramadaan...well, we collectively sent a total of $2223.32 (in Canadian - US/UK converted)

The amount we collected is enough to feed 200 people for the entire month of Ramadaan, insha'Allah. 



May Allah reward all those who helped (in some way or another), with the very best in this world and in the next. Ameen.

You guys are awesome!! xx

Labels: help

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa RahmatuLlahi wa Barakatuhu

Ramadaan is around the corner and I know everyone will be date shopping (like the fruit..lol)... I'm adding a jpeg below for you to print out and take shopping of a list of brands that you should NOT be buying. These are on the Israeli boycott list. Most don't say where they are from on the package so please be aware, and let others know.

.....it's a small part we can play to make a difference.


Thank you! May Allah reward you for your efforts. Ameen.

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

We just had another swap.. with a "typography" theme!

This is what I got from my absolutely lovely swap partner in Singapore!! She knows I love goats, isn't that the cutest goat ever!! all hand drawn by her, and the rest is crocheted by her, and my book is made be her, tabarak'Allah! that's a super talented chick!! if you want to see her other work (and you can buy things too), check out her blog: Adopt An Ami


Those that don't know... we moved all swaps to a facebook page: Gift Giving in Islam
come and join us!! We'll be having another swap in Ramadaan (insha'Allah) and maybe one before that.

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I'd like to tell you about an orphanage in Mombasa, Kenya. They have 51 children there. Out of those, 6 orphans remaining and these six kids are in tahfeed (special school for memorizing the whole Quran), it is a boarding school so the fees will include their food and living expenses for the whole year. These children memories an average of 7 Juzu’ per year and some even up to 11 Juzu’

The average total fees for both school and Qur'an school, food and living expenses is per child is $356 (per year)




PLEASE help out with as much you can, and let others know.

To donate contact these people:
Mpesa No. +254 722792749
Tanzania: Tigo Pesa the number is +255652414431.

If you need a paypal address or Western Union info, just email me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) and I'll get you the info.

But whatever thing you spend [in His cause] - He will compensate it; and He is the best of providers." 34:39 

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I'm still working with felt, and sooooooooo loving it! I made my niece a headband... it's nice that I can make useful things, and I like that the projects are so small it's done in a day.

She said her favorite animal is a cheetah and caracal! ... so we had leopard print, haha..and that's what we went with. I call her "Juju" like the magic, so I had that embroided on before sewing everything together.



There is Fatimah modeling it for me. Tabarak'Allah. 


What it looks like up close.
If anyone really wants the pattern for the cheetah, just email me at amtullah79@yahoo.ca and I'll see if I can get it go you.

What else is others working on?? And what's your favorite animal?

Labels: sewing

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

What's everyone up to?? I've discovered a new love...felt!! I know, it's been around for ages and there was a time everyone was into making things with it...I'm a little behind, but I love it.

I just made a postcard for an elderly lady in the UK, who stays in a nursing home there. A lovely friend of mine told me about her, and took the initiative of getting sisters together to send postcards to her. May Allah reward her for her good intentions and deeds. Ameen.

So ya, it was wayyyyyyyyy to cold to go postcard hunting here, so I just made it!


I first worked on the felt. I used whatever I had on hand (no white felt) so yarn for the 'snow' and beads for the snowflakes. Then the back, I used two pieces of cardstock, so it's really sturdy and glued it to the felt before doing a blanket stitch all round.

The moose isn't exactly my design, the inspiration came from here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/25565902@N04/7447878326/

Will post up my other 'projects' soon!
Anyone else who's worked with felt, all tips and ideas are welcome!!

xx

Labels: help, sewing

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I recently heard Mufti Menk mention a wonderful dua' in one of his lectures. Unfortunately I had never heard that dua' before. Then I went on an online hunt for it, and only found it at one site - which made me sad, because I realized chances are, not many others know about it either.

So here it is...I've made it nice and large so it's easy to learn.



If anyone wants a PDF version to print, feel free to email me at: amtullah79@yahoo.ca and I'd be happy to send it to you.

Please pass it on.

Labels: lesson

Title: Qur'an: English Translation

Labels: review

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I while back I had showed you the envelopes I designed for someones wedding. And here is the guestbook! It's SUCH an awesome idea, unlike a regular book! I designed this based on how many guest are invited, so a smaller wedding would be a smaller frame and less leaves (well smaller tree). This is printed on canvas. It's a 30"x40" frame, with a 2" depth.

....contact me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) if you are interested in having me design one. It's completely customized, to fit the color scheme too, etc.


This is on the canvas, before it's signed. Sharpie Ultra Fine markers work the best, I tested a few!!



After the guests signed.



Close up of part of the illustration. It has a hadith at the bottom.

Labels: art, ideas

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

So lately I've been exploring Japanese crafts, etc. There is SOOOOO much out there, makes me think they are the most creative people around.

Here is my attempt at a kokeshi felt doll. They are traditionally made of wood...I'll try painting those one day. But right now just wanted to try this. It's also my first felt doll!! I had a blast making it.


I first just drew out the pattern I wanted, because I couldn't find any that fit my idea. Most felt dolls have a felt dress attached, I wanted mine separate. I think it turned out pretty good. It's only 6 inches tall.

I gifted it to my niece who was happy enough to receive it.

Most of it is done using a 'blanket stitch'. It's quite simple. You can youtube tutorials. This is one of the best pics I found.

Would lot to hear what others are working on? or if any of you have tried making a felt doll?

Labels: sewing

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Yes I am back!! ...although I'm not promising anything this time!
I've actually managed to get lots of things done on my very long break. Including the Mural I started way back in 2012 (I think...lol). Will post pictures and a video soon!

This is my latest sewing project. Qur'an covers!! I usually make the Qur'an bag, but I'm digging how the covers turned out. Will hopefully make more to sell on in my etsy store.


This was done for a gift swap. Aishah had picked "fabric" from my list of items and so I made her this. She was happy with it, alhumduliLlah.


This one is made for a little boy (9 years old) the inside lining is a camo print. I still have to get it to the person who ordered it...so not sure if he digs it or not.


....they make great gifts!! guess what everyone is getting for Eid...lol.. :D
Happy creating everyone.

Labels: sewing, swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

For a very long time I've wanted to compile a list of businesses by MUSLIM WOMEN who are located in Canada. So here it is!! It's an amazing list!! tabarak'Allah.

Please support them, even if it's letting others know about them. Thank you.


Handmade/Art
:: Hafsa Creates
:: Nida's Special Occasions
:: Path of Light Designs
:: The Craft Souk
:: Omee's Boutique
:: MK Gifts & Favours
:: Amour Favours & Gifts
:: Ecohesian Inc.
:: Saleha Art
:: Pampered Muslimah 
:: N A Y A Cards & Things
:: SoneArt
:: The Friday Collective
:: Punched with Love
::



Events Decor/Photography
:: Hamdi Photography
:: Photography By Emma
:: Elegant Everts Decor
:: Nikah - Wedding Planner
:: Finder's Capture
:: Karimah Gheddai Photography
:: Zuhoor Designs
:: Purple Canvas Photography
:: Henna Decor
:: Altona Design
:: Art Creatif
:: Digital Strokes
::





Media/Communication
:: Write On Marketing
:: Digital Strokes
:: Nida Sayed Communications
:: Nader Khan
:: Envision Magazine
:: Mango Print & Mail
:: Smart Diversity




For Children
:: Eastern Toybox
:: School Bus Transportation
:: Academy for Math and English
:: Honey Bee Clothing
::



Clothing/Jewelry/Accessories
:: Husn Afza Couture
:: Urban Muslimahs
:: Infinite Hijabs & Accessories
:: Victorious Me
:: Tassou
:: Custom made Abaya
:: Jk Outfits
:: The Gift of Glamour
:: Zayver
:: Haute Designer Lounge
:: Mahal Ul Jannah
:: Pearl Fashion
:: Glamour - goldplated jewellery
:: Eda's Gifts and Accessories Inc
:: Hint of Azalea
:: Hijabi Mama
::




Food/Cakes
:: Finest Expressions
:: Indulge Desserts
:: Naseem Dates
:: Bahiya Collections
:: Lady Cakealot
:: Cakes Come True
:: Irresistible Sweets By Meso
:: Milky Lane
:: Fruitysplendour
:: Delightful Bakery
:: Cakes + Taste
:: Just For The Love Of Cake
:: RIZLEES-cakes
:: SABakeryDelights
:: Sweet Cravings
::



Beauty/Makeup/Henna
:: Mocha Henna
:: Be-Licious
:: Naz e Henna
:: The Olive Tree Soap Company
:: Zara's - Salon for Women
:: NJ's Unique Henna Art
:: Ahlaam Modest Vogue and Make Up
:: Best Argan
:: Artistry by Asima
:: Henna by Sana
:: Henna By Fia
:: Noorjehan M Mujahid - Marykay 
:: Jamberry Nails
:: Lashes Lush
:: Vanity Affair
:: Arbonne
:: Lashes Fun
::



Health
:: Her Yoga Garden
:: The Health Boutique
:: Stouffville Family Eye Care
:: Healthy U Turn
:: Move N Improve



Home
:: Lumesmart
::

 

Other
:: Shaik and Associate
:: Kaamilah Boutique
:: Modah
:: Shaheen International Marriage Connection
:: Salam Shop
:: Annisaa Organization of Canada
:: ACN
::



If you would like to be added please email me at: amtullah79@yahoo.ca





UK:
:: Smart Ark



US:
::

Labels: love, sites

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

We'll be heading into another Ramadaan in few days, insha'Allah. And yes! I will be holding another Eid Gift Swap. However I've decided to make a Facebook group for it instead. This means we can post pics of what we receive and interact with each other.



If you are interested in future swaps or this years "Around The World" please join us here:

Gift Giving in Islam


Hope you all have a wonderful Ramadaan, and are able to make the most of the blessed month. Please keep me in your prayers. May Allah accept your good intentions and deeds. Ameen.

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Few weeks ago I had a 'bridal shower' - okay it was more like a just a party for my cousin, and made this cake!

Few reasons why I'm sharing it:
- I looks TOTALLY awesome inside, I mean LOOK at it - (excuse the not so good photography)
- You'll definitely impress all your guest - including yourself..haha
- It's really easy to make
- You can use other colors to match your theme
- It tastes pretty good
- Did I mention how cool it looks?


This is NOT my recipe, I've just copy and pasted it here for convenience. The YouTube clip shows how to make it. Makes 8" cake.

• 2 ½ cups all purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• ¾ cups vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
Combine above in mixer, until mixed well.

• 4 eggs
Add eggs one at a time - mixing on low in between.

• 1 cup milk
Slowly add milk, mix until completely combined.

• white, pink, and black gel paste
• vanilla buttercream
• black fondant
• pink buttercream
• Wilton tip 1A

*white colouring is optional (I did not use it)

Procedure:
Preheat oven to 350F/170F.

Divide batter into three different bowls.
One bowl having half of the batter (white colour)
The other two have a quarter each (one black, one pink).

Spray two 8" pans and line bottom with parchment paper.

Place four tablespoons of white batter into the center of each pan. Then, directly into the middle of the white batter, place two tablespoons of black batter. Directly into the centre of the black batter, place two tablespoons of pink batter. Repeat cycle.

Bake for 35-40 minutes or toothpick test.
Once cake is cooled, cover in white buttercream, black fondant strips, and pink buttercream beads at base with Wilton 1A tip.

Labels: ideas, recipes

As-salaamu'alaykum wa RahmatuLlahi wa Barakatuhu

I'm still around people!!! Just been very busy with work and prep for my cousin's wedding. Will insha'Allah show you all the awesome things I've been up to!

So a week before the wedding I had a party/shower for her and invited Mocha Henna, since I knew some of the guest would love that.

I absolutely LOVE them!! I'm not a big fan of all henna designs, but love theirs. They also use pure (as in no chemicals) henna - and the color turns out amazing! The sister who applied it is also so sweet (tabarak'Allah).





They are Toronto based, and prices are very reasonable. Definitely worth checking out - my guest were soooo happy with theirs, kicked my party a notch up ;)

Here is their facebook page: Mocha Henna
Website: http://www.mochahenna.com/

Labels: art, sites

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Just want to share a new project I was working on. This is for a client of mine. Money Envelopes!! - for a wedding. Fifteen needed to fit the theme of silver and purple. Overall I had a blast making them - it sure beats just designing stuff (which is usually my job)...hands on stuff is always great.

My main reason for this post is to share where I bought my materials from. Paper Circle in Canada. They have amazingly gorgeous metallic papers. You might not be able to tell from the images, but the paper used is silver and plum (both metallic). I even got the ribbon from there, which is nice because it matches, you can get it by the yard and it's perfectly priced.  So check them out!! OH, and customer service is amazing.. they are SO helpful!

Labels: paper

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I managed to get a little sewing time in this week - but I think that's if for free time! Party time is over *sad*


This is a dress I made for my niece. I still love sewing for 'little' people rather than adults. I followed a Simplicity Pattern: 2683.


The pattern is very easy, it includes the shrug. I however changed up the bottom. Because I didn't want to cut the butterflies (it's a 6 paneled skirt in the pattern) I decided to cut a circular skirt instead. They are many formulas online to use - all work. You do however, need to hang up the skirt for a few days before hemming. Yes, news to me too. In case the fabric stretches along the bias. That way you won't end up with an uneven hemline. It would also depend on the fabric, as some fabrics naturally just have more stretch than others. 

Here is a good link too on hemming a circular skirt: The Costume Goddess

Labels: sewing