What an awesome idea! I can imagine how much time it would have taken you to do these by hand... thank goodness for sewing machines
They look really great, you picked a wonderful embroidery!

It looks great!
What a fun family project!

And the BBQ picture really made me smile

I love them!
And I love the fact that you have such a diverse style.
Your username really suits you

What an inspiring post!
I love the idea, you must have a lot of creative ideas!

I HAVE to do this the day that I get my very own crafting room!

[I LOVE THEM!!]

Being the fellow crazy cat lady that I am.. I LOVE THEM!!

Love that fabric! Gorgeous dress and super cute necklace!

Wow, you made 10 already?
Are you super fast or are they easy to do?

They look great, I want one!

Oh, thanks so much for your help guys!
I'm so excited to tell my mom now

[at least]

Don't you guys think I need at least a basic pattern?

Personally I always like to start with a pattern, but I know a lot of people who don't.

You may be able to download a free pattern like the vest you like and go from there.

Your Mom is going to be big help for you on this one but I think it's best you feel comfortable with what you are doing.

Something like the 'Franzi' pattern on Burda Style might help:
http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns?page=18

When I looked it was at the top of the page linked, but they may move it.

Yeah, it feels better to have a pattern, even if you don't always follow it, it's good to have something to at least start with. I want to be able to sew a bit of it myself instead of always waiting for my mom to be free to come over so we can work on it together.

Thanks for the link! Didn't know you could get patterns for free online! What a great website that was!
I've never printed a pattern before, is there something I should know about it?

[at least]

Don't you guys think I need at least a basic pattern?
My mom wants to just buy a bunch of fabric and "go from there", without any pattern or any help whatsoever. That makes me nervous