Sew Fashionable

The Gray Coat

2011-01-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

Adding photos of my latest project. Review posted on patternreview.com
Burda Magazine 11-2006-109
Hip length jacket with sporty waist tabs and optional fur collar. I opted out of the fur collar.

Side view.

The back. You can see the width issue in this picture. The jacket wants to shift to the side slightly.

The lining. I'm still using that silk tie bundle I got from Fabric Mart a few years ago. It's been great stuff for lining coats and skirts.

The pocket facing I created

The pocket front.

Souffle Au Fromage

2010-01-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

Yummmm......Julia Child is my hero. I loved her as a child and I love her today. If you have a copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, the recipe for this basic souffle is remarkable. I paired it with Bifteck Hache A La Lyonnaise and a vegetable. Of course bread and wine was on the table. Fantastic! Who could imagine ground beef, eggs, cheese and a little butter could make such a fantastic meal? Well.... the french, obviously. If you don't own a copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, please do yourself a favor and get one today.

My New Camera

2009-12-27T15:57:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited! I got a new camera for Christmas and I couldn't be happier about it. It's not an SLR but it's a point and shoot on steroids. I know absolutely nothing about photography as is evident from some of the pictures you may have seen here. I'm compelled to learn though. Here are two that I took yesterday. Not great, but hopefully my skills will improve as I discover the intricacies of my camera and the basics of photography.

Wishing All a Joyous Holiday Season

2009-12-17T04:37:00.000-08:00

If your eyes are as bad as mine, click on the picture to get a larger version.
It's been two months since I've posted anything to my blog, but I've been busy with the holidays. I just wanted to extend my warmest wishes to all for a season filled with love, family and a healthy and prosperous New Year!!

A little peek at something I made recently to keep the chill off.

The pocket zipper is a little wonky, but much less noticible in person than in this detail shot. Another little problem I had was the ultrasuede collar wanted to flip up. I used two BWOF patterns to create the final frankenpattern I used. The collar was self drafted so that could be the reason it just didn't lay right. My solution was to use two buttons to secure the collar down. Perhaps it's not the most pleasing solution but it was necessary to make the jacket wearable.

Some of you may remember reading this review by Nancy2001 on Patternreview.com and thinking that my jacket looks very much like hers. Well you know they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. When I found this fabric I remembered that wonderful jacket and wanted one very similar for myself. So, thank you Nancy for the inspiration!

She Talks to Angels

2009-10-23T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, I admit it, I have a new monkey on my back. I've been spending my time at jewelry making and not at sewing. But it's okay. My closet is full!

Birgitte of Bubblegum 4 Breakfast apparently, is fighting this addiction too. She's right, I did warn her. Taking up a new hobby can be expensive, but that's not the worst of it. It's that darn learning curve. My focus has been primarily wire wrapping with a little bit of polymer clay work thrown in. The latter requires a level of artistic ability that I don't possess. That doesn't mean I won't keep trying, though.

Here are a few of my (obvious) beginning efforts:

This is one of the first pieces I made and is constructed with glass beads. It's heavy but I do like it.
Sterling silver wire wrapped Lapis Lazuli and silver beads. My first attempt at wire wrapping.

Sterling silver wire and Bali-silver bead bracelet. The coils around the beads were tough to position.
Sterling silver wire wrapped cabochon pendant. It's a little wonky, but this was fairly difficult for me.
An embarrassing attempt at an ethnic pendant. I have cording and clasp to complete this, but it looks too much like an insect pupa. You have no idea how long I worked on this polymer clay piece. Although it's not wearable, I learned a lot about composing polyclay canes.

Polymer Clay fish pendant. There are glass bead embellishments and one large Lapis Lazuli bead for the eye. Although it's not visible in this picture there is a silver bail at the top for a chain or cording. I love this little guy but I'm not sure I'll ever wear it as a necklace. It's really not my style, but he is cute!

I cannot take credit for any of the designs here. All were made with instruction from various books including: Polymer Pizzazz, Aug 2007 Wirework magazine, Jewel School CD.

For your listening pleasure.

The Best Laid Plans

2009-08-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

I intended to make that suit I really did. It's just that I really don't have any place to wear something like that. For months I was pissed that I'd impulsively purchased that lace. It was expensive. I could have bought yards of knits that I would be able to wear every day. In the end, I'm really happy it was there in my stash. I have a wedding to attend in a few weeks and I need a dress to wear. I've decided to use some of the lace, but of course in it's ivory state it would be inappropriate for a wedding. So I dyed it! It's loverly!!!

Even BETTER in person. Today is officially a sewing day.

2009-07-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

By Brian Crane
Courtesy of Pickles free online comics

You Are The Star

2009-07-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

You are The Star

Hope, expectation, Bright promises.

The Star is one of the great cards of faith, dreams realised

The Star is a card that looks to the future. It does not predict any immediate or powerful change, but it does predict hope and healing. This card suggests clarity of vision, spiritual insight. And, most importantly, that unexpected help will be coming, with water to quench your thirst, with a guiding light to the future. They might say you're a dreamer, but you're not the only one.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Yes, it's a cop out post, but it's fun. I've been very busy this summer as Mom's Taxi Service. I haven't been in front of my sewing machine in almost 3 weeks. I guess I've lost my sewing mojo, at least for sewing summer clothing. Next weekend we are starting a flooring project in our media room so I probably won't sew for another 3 weeks. Perhaps by then I'll be motivated to start on my fall wardrobe. Till then...........What tarot card are you?

Vacation here I come!

2009-05-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

Well, not really, but I'm READY for a vacation. I know the Weekender Travel Bag by Amy Butler has been reviewed to death, but I just had to add mine to the list.

I ADORE this bag. It was tedious and time consuming work, but well worth all the cursing.

As other reviewers have pointed out, the bag is large but I couldn't get everything I'd need for a weekend into it. It would be perfect to carry essential items on a plane (jammies,meds,change of undies) when you have checked baggage. In a pinch I could get two days clothes in there if the only shoes I brought were the ones on my feet. But we know that's NOT going to happen.

I did make one tiny little mistake. BWAAAAAAA...I knew something was wrong when I was sewing over those darn handles. Oh well, that's what they make rippers for. I highly recommend a surgical steel ripper. Cuts thread like buttah. In a pinch it can be use for self defense. ;)

I added a cool little label. Hubby and I have been known as Mr and Ms Jekyl for years, so I had these lables printed up. Added a contrast border and I think it looks great! And yes, I know the famous Doctor's name had two l's. Here's a shot of the label and a detail of the piping I made from the lining fabric.

Here is the side view to give you some idea of the depth of the bag.

This is the inside pocket I added for shoes. It was hard to get a shot of this once the bag was finished. I simply added width to the top of the pocket panel, added a piece of elastic the width of the finished pocket panel top, sewed a vertical seam for two shoes then sewed the lining as instructed.

My intention was to match the fabric design as much as possible. I managed to do this pretty well on the bag face, but the top was a little more difficult because of the zipper. I didn't read ahead or I would have realized that the seam allowance for the zipper is 1 inch instead of the half inch I calculated for. Thus, my circles at the zipper are squeezed together and slightly off center. Oh well......

I made a cute little cosmetics bag to match the travel bag using the scrap fabrics. I added two pockets on each side with velcro closure for longer items like lipstick, pencils or mascara. The interior can hold other cosmetics.
A few complaints:

1. I would have liked for the pattern to have included the few pieces that you are to measure and cut. When I buy a pattern I want all the pieces included. Even though it was easy enough, I shouldn't have to do any drafting.

2. I had to remove some length from the bottom Peltex pieces as other reviewers mentioned.
3. If you are going to write revised directions, just revise the entire directions instead of including "inserts" that need to be added. For Example:

"In step 6, replace 6A with the revised instructions below." and "Please delete step 4D on the instruction page. Then change the step letters on E, F and G to D, E and F respectively."

It was confusing for my tired little brain. I would think from a technical writing perspective, editing the original instructions would have been far easier than the "delete this, add that, change this word" approach that was used. {shurgs}

Just go through and delete/mark the changes before you begin. Well worth using the updated instructions as it make bag assembly much easier. I didn't break even one needle on this project. ;)
The completed set! I just love this project. No fitting and nothing makes my butt look big.

Zero 8

2009-04-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be a fan of barbershop quartet, this performance will delight you. I sang in a women's group (Sweet Adelines) several years ago, so I have a fondness for this style of singing. The reason this group was brought to my attention is that the conductor is the brother of a friend of my sister-in-law. (HA)

The choreography is a little over the top as is common in barbershop quartet so you may want to close your eyes while you listen.

Muslins are your friend

2009-04-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

Or....What in the hell was I thinking?

From Burda World of Fashion 04-2009: Plain and simple sheath dress especially for petite ladies, this sleek sheath in Jackie Onassis style is perfect. Why? Because the clean lines flatteringly show off a slim figure.

A what? A slim figure you said? Bwaaaaaaaa I forgot I don't have one anymore! And I shamefully admit that I really do look this bad most days.

This is just wrong on me. In more ways than one. It makes me look 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. I'm so glad I made a muslin, although I lost an entire afternoon tracing it, cutting and sewing up this crap. I really think this design is more suited for someone willowy and tall. Back to the pattern catalog, but first:

Get haircut. Check
See cosmetic surgeon. Check
Lose weight. Check
Exercise. Check

Pretty Lingerie

2009-03-18T12:49:00.001-07:00

Here is my project of the last few days. The bra is Kwik Sew 3300. I've had this pattern for a few years but just got around to trying it. It's a pretty good fit right out of the envelope. All of the components don't match exactly (waist elastic is different than leg elastic), but I used items I had on hand to test the pattern. The final products is pretty nice looking if I do say so myself. Does anybody know what causes the bra to sit very low on the rib cage? The underwires sit well below my bust. It's as if there isn't enough room at the bottom of the cups.

This picture shows the back band and how I used a bit of foam cut from an old worn out bra to pad the hook closure. My RTW Calvin Klein bras have this feature and it is most comfortable. It's not the most elegant looking from the inside, but the outside look just fine. I just threw this on after the fact because the hooks were digging into my back. Next time I can incorporate this feature in a more esthetically pleasing way.

The panties were self drafted using instructions from Sewing Lingerie That Fits Let me tell you that they really do fit! Karen Morris tells you how to draft a pair of custom panties that will fit better than anything you can buy in the store. If you have this book give it a try! It might take a test pair or two but the final result is wonderful. As you can see my leg elastic is pretty loose. I don't like the elastic to hug too close to the body. Just enough to keep it in place and not cause unnecessary VPL.

As far as the Valentino inspired suit, I haven't made any progress. Still don't have dye, fabric or pattern. It's been so warm here that it's very hard for me to be enthusiastic about sewing a suit! I intend to work on this throughout the summer, but it may not be completed until closer to fall when I'll actually be able to wear it. Just trying to be realistic as I know how fickle I can be when it comes to planning sewing projects. Sheesh!

Chantilly Lace And A Pretty Face

2009-03-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

Ok so it's not chantilly lace. It sure is pretty though. If you look at the Valintino suit I'm thinking of copying you can see that there is a similar feeling to the laces I've ordered. Especially the first one.

I had though that I would piece the two laces to achieve a similar look as the couture suit. I still might do that, but I'll decide that later after I get a decent muslin. I've been working on a muslin of a Vogue jacket pattern that I've had for eons, but it's so NOT working. I found this New Look pattern that I'll pick up over the weekend and begin fresh with the muslin.

As you can see the lace is ivory as is the fashion fabric I'm ordering. I guess I'll need to dye the fabric and lace to avoid looking like I'm having a late in life second wedding. Exactly what color I haven't decided, but I'm a novice so any advice is appreciated. I was thinking Acid dye for the silk and Procion for the rayon laces?

Dharma Trading

Getting similar colors from the two different dyes could be tricky, although the original garment has lace and fabric of slightly different hues. That might be more interesting.

I think I'll move on to a quick project for Saturday and Sunday and start fresh with the jacket muslin next week.

New Addition to my Home

2009-03-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

Isn't she sweet? Her name is Maggie and this picture was taken last week on her first day with us. I do belive she has grown quite a bit in just one week. We are working on house breaking her and general dog obedience, but alas she is a pup and these things take time.

For those of you who have had a pup you'll know that they can be a full time job. I've had no time to sew or even think about sewing. Today I'm going to try to get my sewing room cleaned up. Tomorrow I'd like to show you the lace I got for my suit. Beautiful! I've found some tropical weight wool that I'm in love with and I think that's going to be the foundation fabric I use. I may wait until next week to order it as I've exceeded my budget lately with dogs and dog supplies.

The first muslin of the jacket has been completed. Need to make some changes and try again. Until then, I'm off to walk the dog.

2009-02-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

The silk blouse has been finished for a while now but I just got around to getting a picture of me actually in it. It's very comfortable to wear and the silk feels wonderful next to my skin, but I think I picked another dud style-wise. Probably not the best choice for a shorty and I think it sort of emphasizes my rapidly disappearing waist. The sleeves fall just at the waist too, which visually thickens my middle. (did you notice I'm standing sideways? Full frontal looks worse. LOL) So, it's done and it's not a wadder. That's about all I have on this one.

Here's what's next:

Valentino Haute Couture - Spring 2009

I'm in lurve with this suit. Some might find it a little matronly, but to me it's just a gorgeous classic. I've ordered some lace that cost a small fortune and now I'm looking for the fabric. Several ladies on PR have suggested a wool/silk blend and I'm still looking for that, but I've got two swatches on the way for consideration One a silk Duchesse Satin and an italian tropical weight wool.

Things I'm thinking about:

1. How am I going to get a jacket that isn't too boxy looking without darts or
seaming. See boxy looking blouse above.

2. Apparently this collar is cut straight and steamed into shape. Can I do that?
Maybe, if my fabric has some wool in it. Not sure about silk though.

3. I'm certain that dyeing fabric or lace is going to be part of this project.
I've dyed junk before but not fabric that cost as much as this lace. Can you
say fear?

4. What kind of closure does this jacket have? So far I'm thinking covered snaps.

5. What fabric should I use to support the lace/silk/wool piecing? Organza?

Any and all ideas or suggestions will be appreciated! Off to work on the muslin jacket.

White Highlights!

2009-02-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

I'm working on this airy blouse from BWOF 05-2008. Several people have reviewed it favorably on Patternreview.com. I enjoyed the versatility that this pattern offers and because I had some sheer, stretch silk gorgette in the stash, I decided to try this pattern out. So far, so good. It's gone together easily and looks like it's going to fit pretty well with only some minor pattern adjusting. Actually now that I've loaded the picture, it seems the waist may be too low. I'll see how that plays out in the end.

Here it is on my dressform. All that's left is the binding on neck and front bands and the hemming. It's that hemming that I'm dreading. That can make or break a sheer garment.

YOU ARE A GRACE

2009-01-29T13:35:00.000-08:00

You are a Grace -- "I need to understand the world."

Graces have a need for knowledge and are introverted, curious, analytical, and insightful.

How to Get Along with Me
* Be independent, not clingy
* Speak in a straightforward and brief manner
* I need time alone to process my feelings and thoughts
* Remember that If I seem aloof, distant, or arrogant, it may be that I am feeling uncomfortable
* Make me feel welcome, but not too intensely, or I might doubt your sincerity
* If I become irritated when I have to repeat things, it may be because it was such an effort to get my thoughts out in the first place
* don't come on like a bulldozer
* Help me to avoid my pet peeves: big parties, other people's loud music, overdone emotions, and intrusions on my privacy

What I Like About Being a Grace * standing back and viewing life objectively * coming to a thorough understanding; perceiving causes and effects * my sense of integrity: doing what I think is right and not being influenced by social pressure * not being caught up in material possessions and status * being calm in a crisis

What's Hard About Being a Grace
* being slow to put my knowledge and insights out in the world
* feeling bad when I act defensive or like a know-it-all
* being pressured to be with people when I don't want to be
* watching others with better social skills, but less intelligence or technical skill, do better professionally

Graces as Children Often
* spend a lot of time alone reading, making collections, and so on
* have a few special friends rather than many
* are very bright and curious and do well in school
* have independent minds and often question their parents and teachers
* watch events from a detached point of view, gathering information
* assume a poker face in order not to look afraid
* are sensitive; avoid interpersonal conflict
* feel intruded upon and controlled and/or ignored and neglected

Graces as Parents
* are often kind, perceptive, and devoted
* are sometimes authoritarian and demanding
* may expect more intellectual achievement than is developmentally appropriate
* may be intolerant of their children expressing strong emotions

Man....that's wicked scary. Very close indeed with a few exceptions.

Find out who you are HERE

2009-01-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

Kreativblogger Award

Can you imagine? I've been nominated for the Kreativeblogger Award. Little ole me. I was nominated by the ubber fabulous Birgitte from Bubblegum 4 Breakfast!
Here is what she had to say: "This elegant Floridian makes stylish clothing, and I would raid her closet if I could. She doesn't post as often as I'd like her to, but living in Florida, I understand. Too much living going on down there, my favorite state."
Well.....{blush} the only part I can wrap my brain around is the part about not posting often, but still, I'm flattered. There is no closet I'd rather raid than Birgitte's, so right back at ya! I'll try to post more often. It's more about laziness than a super busy life.
So, here is my list of blogs that I'd like to offer up for recognition.

Rules:
1. Copy the award to your site.
2. Link to the person from whom you received the award.
3. Nominate 7 other bloggers.
4. Link to those on your blog.
5. Leave a message on the blogs you nominate.

Sigrid - sewing projects Look at these fabulous pants that Sigrid recently made. Sigird is from The Netherlands and I love her site for wonderful details and inspiring technique.

SewWest Nancy from New Mexico has another very inspirational sewing blog. I love her perspective as a Desert Diva.

Sew-4-FunI adore Belinda from Australia's sewing site! She is super helpful with pants fitting tips and produces the most adorable clothing for herself and her children.

Sew At SeaLaura is currently on a European trip and I'm living vicarious though her! Her unique perspective is sewing on board a boat. How fun is that?

La SewistaBunny produces the most exquisite heirloom sewing. Truly beautiful art!

Barrientos CRUZ BARRIENTOS is a Designer/Couturier from Miami. Would that I had found his lovely site while I lived in South Florida! Breathtaking workmanship!

Wardrobe Revival Elle from New Zealand makes such lovely, feminine garments. I adore the color pallet of her wardrobe.

Thanks for the enjoyable blogs.

Vogue 8409

2008-12-21T09:00:00.001-08:00

Well better late than never, right? Bad weather, busy days and lack of motivation have prevented me from posting pics of Vogue 8409. Truthfully, I was also very unhappy with the finished dress so that may have contributed to my reluctance to post on it. So......here is the dress and a few observations about the pattern.The dress front. Not bad, not great. Boring, really. Not terribly figure flattering either. Just.Boring.

The back is fine. I like the tiny tucks.
The bodice is nice. I think it's flattering although low cut. For any occasion other than a party I'd wear a cami under it. I had trouble with the neckline gaping and spent several hours messing with it to try to reduce it. I ended up making the adjustment at the empire waist and you can see this resulted in a bit of pulling just at center front.
On to the armhole. Boy are they tight! I did my regular petite adjustment to the upper bodice. I ALWAYS have to do this. I removed a scant 1/2". Did this result in the too tight armhole? Don't know, but I do know that is drove me crazy to wear this thing all night.
There's something weird about the sleeves. I think I may have made an error when marking them and so they were not set in properly. Anyhoo, they don't hang nicely and the sleeve head wants to collapse.
I was so sick of this dress by the time I put the sleeves in that I didn't have the energy to re-set them. Probably should have though.
A little shot of the cuff. Nice detail.

I guess it's obvious by now that I won't be making this dress again. I don't like it and it's uncomfortable to wear. Many of my problems were self created but overall I don't find this style flattering on my figure. I'm on to the next project.

FYI I tried a new product that was recommend on PR by Phyllis of The Sewing Divas. Sally Hanson Airbrush Legs. NAYY but boy I lurve this stuff. It's really natural looking but provides a smooth polished finish to the legs. It's in the 60's here a night so it's warm enough for bare legs. That's my beauty tip today.

Noriko Handbag

2008-12-17T05:34:00.000-08:00

Lazy Girl Designs has this adorable little evening bag pattern on the site and guess what? It's free. Lazygirldesigns.com This bag was so easy to put together with scraps of fabric I had around. I needed a burgundy bag to carry to a Holiday party on Sat. Now, my simple bag isn't as lovely as the one featured on the Lazy Girl site,the sample bag seem much fuller than mine. It will do though and it cost nothing because I used scraps from other projects and beads from a long broken necklace. Free, right? Certainly a bargain compared to the one I considered at Dillards. It was $75.

It's cute, right? Would be better in an Asian print as the sample bag is, but I think it'll do just fine for my purposes. The directions are wonderful and easy to follow. I chose to use interfacing on all the outer/lining pieces. Perhaps that is why the bag seem to have less fullness. I can say it's much cuter in person.

The grey dress is finished and all I can say is WHEW! What a PITA that was. For such a simple dress I sure had my share of difficulties with it. Perhaps my changing(aging) body is throwing me off, but I am having such trouble fitting lately. I have gained about 5 lbs since surgery last summer, but I'm back to my work out routine and eating cleaner. I'm trying to lose it before Christmas. HOHOHO

Anyhoo, Later today I'll try to get the dress review up. It's been raining here for two days and I really want to get some pictures outdoors. They come out much better in natural light. Tootles, til then, a shot of the dress during fitting. Sorry for the flash, forgot to turn it off.

2008-11-30T12:05:00.000-08:00

Wow, Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is near. I have several projects that I'm working on and they all need completing before Dec. 20th.

I have a company Holiday party on Dec. 20 and I'm working on vogue 8409.

I'm using a very nice, taupe wool that I got from Gorgeous Fabrics. It's a little sedate for a holiday party, but I really need something in my wardrobe that can do double duty. I'm job hunting and I need some basics in my wardrobe in case I get lucky and actually find a job in this depressed area/time. Right now it's cut and darts are in but I need an invisible zipper before I can go further. I'm counting on accessories to bring this up to a party look.

I'll try to get some pictures of my progress on the dress, but for now here is a shot of the muslin.A few obvious issues: The bust points are much too high, but strangly enough look quite good on me. I realise now that they really arent visible in the photo. I'm not messing with that because I like the way the bodice looks on me. There is a problem with the side seam just under the bodice inset. There is some sagging there and once I adjust that seam about 1/4" the side seams hang better and the front darts hang straight. I didn't make this adjustment to the pattern, but I will make it when I fit the actual dress. Of note is this dress is extremely narrow in the hips. I cut a size 8 in the shoulder and bodice and extended to a 12 in the skirt. This seems to be the SOP for others who have made this dress. There will be some adjusting necessary to the back dart to get the fit just so, but these are adjustments easy to do in the sewing stage. I'll keep my progress posted if I can.

I'm also working on some gifts for family members so I cannot post about them right now. But it adds three additional projects to my list plus I've been itching to get to a jacket I've been wanting to make. I have a nice red wool melton that I'm considering for Onion 1032 that I got from Shop Onion a few years ago.

I've made this before so it's already been fitted. It's a very comfortable, casual jacket that's quick to put together. I'd like to line it this time so it will slip on and off easier.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and relaxing weekend.

Star Wars - A Tribute to John Williams

2008-11-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

There are no sewing projects to share with you but I thought I'd share this uber fantastic music video instead. This guy rocks!

Victory!

2008-11-05T05:55:00.000-08:00

Strike a Pose - VOGUE

2008-10-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

What's more fun than a trip to Joann Fabrics? Let me rephrase that. It's so much fun to go to Joann Fabrics when Vogue patterns on on sale for $3.99! I managed to find five patterns that I wanted today. I'll share a few of them with you. First this new pattern by Donna Karan. It's been out for a few weeks now, but this is the first time I've been to Joann since then.

I love this dress! So sleek. It wasn't till I got it home that I realized that this is intended for knit fabrics. DUH! It's Donna Karan for goodness sake. It has boning and foundation with bra which would make it a dream to wear. Suberb fitting is essential on this one. This is an "at least one muslin" dress. The skirt front wraps around to the back to fit smoothly around the hips. This is essentially one long dart that runs from front waist to back skirt hem. Lovely! I'm not sure I'll get to it but I'm dreaming of a Christmas dress.......

I also got this wonderful Badgley Mischka that EricaB made recently. Fabulous details on this pant.

I also picked up the Very Easy Vogue 8409 which has been successfully made by several PR ladies. It's such a classic that I couldn't resist. With the right fabrication this could be a real go to dress. Wonder what's in the stash?

I like the idea of this in a grey color pallet. A nice neutral that could be dressed up or down with accessories.

So as you can see I'm still dreaming of fashion sewing but I have a bit more home dec to do and then I'm back at it.

All photos courtesy of Voguepatterns.com

No garment sewing in September.

2008-10-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since I've blogged. Not that that's anything new. I've been busy painting and redecorating my bedroom. I think I bought the fabric for this project 8 months ago and since home dec sewing is my favorite (NOT) I've just finished it. I have no idea why I didn't buy a new duvet and bedskirt. Really, for the price I paid for the fabrics I could have gotten something very nice. I'm pleased with how this turned out but not thrilled. It actually looks much better in person, as the faux embriodered dupioni has a shine that isn't translating well in the photos. I'm not much of a decorator either.
This is a king size bed and just dealing with the fabric was a PITA. Sooooo much fabric! The top of the duvet had to be pieced which I did with piping that I made myself. The back of the duvet was a purchased king sized sheet. Ooops, DH's pillow is peeking out.

A close up of the fabric pairing. Again, much better in person.

Now I need to give the master bath a face lift. I can hardly contain myself I'm so excited. You heard my sarcasm in that last sentence, right? On a sad note: The leather jacket is not going to happen. I'm so bummed out! I simply do not have enough leather to squeeze a jacket out. I really thought I did, but after tracing the pattern I can see that the leather I have is going to have to be something else. There are too many flaws in it that I must cut around. The best laid plans as they say............Still loving those jackets though.

SEWING WITH LEATHER

2008-09-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

I've decided to put away the sweater knits that I've been considering lately and pull out some luscious leather that I have in my stash. Got it last year at PR Weekend. I went through all my patterns and all my BWOF and came up with this pattern.

It has all the biker chick design features I'm looking for so it's probably my top contender. It's May 08 issue. Lots of snaps! I also happened to get my Sept 08 BWOF in the mail today. Here is another possibility.

I'm liking this quite a bit, but it doesn't have a collar and stand as you can see from the technical drawing.

Which one would you pick?

Sweater Knits

2008-08-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

Even though the sweltering summer days go on and on I'm beginning to think about my fall/winter wardrobe. I recently got this fantastic sweater knit from Gorgeousfabrics.com and I'm stumpped! The hand is quite yummy but it's thin and more of a tee shirt weight than sweater to me. One of the suggested patterns is the Riviera Cardi from Hotpatterns. Love it! Want to make it, but this print is bold and unusual. Perhaps too much for my 5'1" frame. Say it ain't so!

Here are some shots of the fabric in question. Click on the picture for a larger view.

Some interesting things could be done with the vertical border that runs along one salvedge of the fabric. That would mean that the rest of the garment would have the horizonal pattern of the fabric going around the body. I usually avoid that kind of thing as it just acentuates my shortness. Still.....I'm really thinking about it. What do you think? Any ideas for other uses for this fabric? I'm open to suggestions.

LBD, Emphasis on L= Low cut!

2008-08-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

If you've read any of the reviews of Vogue 8386 or even seen the pattern cover you are aware that this dress is indeed low cut. This composite pic shows the front and side view. The wind was blowing so you can't get a good idea of how this hangs in the front, but sans wind it really drapes nicely there. Side view isn't too bad either. This dress wasn't difficult but required a few minor adjustments to get a reasonable fit.
Alterations I made:

1. Reduce length in upper bodice, above waist, skirt length. Skirt length was removed around knee level to maintain the hem circumference. Made an inadequate
swayback adjustment.

2. I had to fiddle with the bust overlap to get the look I wanted and adjust
placement to reduce gaping at the bust. Unfortunately, I didn't accomplish that
to my satisfaction. My bra shows at the front even with a demi cup and something
about the shoulder width feels off. I'm very glad that I didn't cut the back
bodice on the fold because the back neck gaped a lot. Since I had that center
back seam there I was able to remove that extra fabric. I think I'm developing
a dowager's hump. Grrrrrr Also notice that I didn't transition smoothly between my shoulder blades. See that little point that developed?
The back bodice is too tight, visually. It doesn't feel restrictive, but every line of my bra is visible. Not a good look. Still could have used a bigger sway back adjustment.

Overall, this dress isn't terrible, and with a few accessories and constant tugging at the bodice, it's wearable. As you may imagine DH really loves this dress (cleavage) so I may be wearing it around the house often. {wink} Really, he would not leave me alone. That in itself might be good reason to whip one of these up. LOL

Early Birthday Presents!

2008-08-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

I LURVE me some magazines! In fact I'm a magazine junkie. Well a fabric junkie too. Did i mention patterns? Oh well........
When I opened my mailbox today I had a lovely suprise. The new BWOF Aug. 08 issue. YAY! I'm sure many of you received your copy earlier, but mine always comes late.

Another little treasure was the Sept issue of Lucky that also included the Fashion Rocks issue. YAY again!
Photo curtisey of www.luckymag.com

Ok, so my BD is a week away, but this was a nice alternative to the bills I usually get in the mail.
Later today (or tomorrow) I'll be posting a review of Vogue 8386.
Photo curtisey of www.voguepatterns.com

I know, ho hum, it's be reviewed MANY times. It's a very cute dress, but I'm afraid it's really not me. Perhaps a bit too youthful. Sheesh....
I'll leave you till then with one more picture that was taken on my recent vacation.

Beautiful St. Thomas. Spectacular! Click the pic to get the enlarged view.

Wardrobe Elements

2008-07-11T12:51:00.000-07:00

The last time I went to a Jo-Anns during a pattern sale I came across this pattern by Simplicity. It seems to be out of print now, but perhaps some of you have it in your pattern stash.

The only piece that spoke to me was the cut away tank. I love this style of tank and when I saw that it has a center back seam I decided I had to have it. I have a marked sway back and a center back seam always helps me get a better fit. I know that many people don't like CB seams on their tees, but it really doesn't bother me especially if the knit is a print. I've lightened the picture so you can get a better look at it.

Here's it is made with an acetate slinky that has languished in the stash since 2007PR weekend. It's cool, comfortable and won't wrinkle. Perfect for travel.

I made a sway back adjustment to the back pattern piece and also shortened the front and back at upper chest and at the waist. You can see that it fits neatly on my dressform which replicates my back curve exactly.

I haven't tried any of the other pieces from this pattern, but the cardigan piece also has this helpful center back seam.

Mariner of the Sea

2008-07-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Royalcaribbean.com

There she is! I'll be sailing her in 12 days. Needless to say I'm obsessing over what clothes I'm taking aboard. I've been fickle with regard to sewing as I can't seem to stay on a project much past the planning stage. I did finish two tops last week but accomplished nada over the weekend. I spent hours in my sewing room, I just wasn't sewing. Handling fabric, looking at patterns. Whatever......

Truth is I really don't need anything new for my cruise. I have evening wear for two nights. One gown is quite formal and for the second night I have separates planned. Plenty of knit dresses can take me from daytime to night with a change of shoes and accessories. So my wardrobe is essentially thought out. But you know.....I have to plan the rest of the family too. That's what happens when your punks are all boys.

2008-07-05T09:12:00.000-07:00

This is what I'm working on this weekend. Trying to get a top draped for my upcoming vacation. You can see that my draping skills are slim to none. LOL We'll see if I actually get this pattern made into a garment.

The inspiration garment is a tee neck halter, but my garment will have the tee neck front and back. I'm planning a cream lace overlay over a cream cotton backing. Now I'm off to look for a cream/ivory separating zipper in the right length.

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

Wishing a safe and fun Independence Day to all!

Back to the land of the living.

2008-06-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's how I've been feeling these days. Almost like my old self. After a scheduled surgery then an emergency surgery 3 days later, a week long hospital stay and a few weeks on the sofa, I'm feeling almost normal. I think I'm ready to hit the sewing machine.

The family is going on a cruise this summer and I need some easy to pack, easy to wear separates to get me though 7 days. We cruised last year and I took waaaay too many clothes. I don't want to repeat that. The fact is, most of the time I was in short and tees or bathing suit and cover up. I didn't need all those skirts and such that I took to go to the dining room during the day and all the dressier things for night. Yes, there are two formal nights, but I think a few knit pieces that I can mix and match during the day and night will serve me better, make my suitcase lighter and the decision making easier. I don't want to think about what I'm going to wear. I just want to sit back and enjoy my mojito.

Tomorrow I'm scanning the stash and pattern catalog to come up with a few easy pieces to whip up in the next few weeks. 39 days to Bon Voyage.

Life gets in the way

2008-05-17T14:39:00.001-07:00

From time to time we have to face a difficult decision, a stressful event, a health issue....sometimes all three! I've done some sewing (stay busy, stay busy, my mind says) but I can't bring myself to post reviews. I'm just not feeling the love for the garment nor do I have the mental energy to discuss the things about it I don't like. I probably won't be feeling up to any sewing for at least a week. Certainly won't be blogging. I'm just going to keep the serene image of this picture in my mind and try to get through the next few weeks.

I've Been Tagged! Twice.

2008-05-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

Yes, tagged twice by Connie and Lindsay in the meme game. So.....reaching for the nearest (non-sewing) book from the large pile near my bedside table, my hand rested upon The Fermata.

Let me just say I haven't read this book, but several people told me it's hysterical. After turning to page 123, then 126, and 128, I decided that this book is not appropriate for a family friendly blog. Enough said. Not sure I'll be reading it.

So just beneath that I found Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier. This was a gift from my lovely mother in law. You've all heard of it and perhaps have read it or seen the movie. Personally, I enjoyed both. This story isn't filled with fast paced excitement, thrill and intrigue. I found the prose beautiful and compelling, but I think many people will find it just plain sloooooow. The rules are:

1. Pick up the nearest book.
2. Turn to page 123
3. Find the fifth sentence
4. Post the next three sentences.
5. Tag five people and acknowledge who tagged you

"Then they just cut chunks of fish and skewered them on green sticks and roasted them bare over fire coals. Veasey talked on and on, and when he tired of relating his own history, he tried to draw out Inman's story. Where his home might be."

Thanks for thinking of me ladies. I'm now tagging Angelia. I know that's only one person, but I couldn't find 5 people that haven't already had fun with this meme game. Have a great weekend.

Making a Leather Handbag

2008-05-07T14:37:00.000-07:00

When I saw all the fantastic handbags being made during Patternreview's handbag contest, I got the bug. I've made bags before, but only one leather one and I wasn't particularly pleased with it. As with many things, I think it takes a little practice.

I really admired Connie's fantastic bag and since I'd gotten the same type of frame at PR weekend in NYC, I shamelessly copied many of her techniques. I used a leopard print leather ( say that 3 times fast) and an embossed lambs leather for the handles. <

Since I didn't have a pattern I went to this site. I'd seen her tutorial on handbag frames before and used her directions for drafting a pattern. U-Handblog

Another tip from PR reviewer Unfinishedprojects was this techinque for interfacing her bag here, and that was very helpful for the lining/interfacing of my bag. As you can see, I had a lot of help in the construction and I'm certain that without it I would not have had as good an outcome.

The bag is simply two pieces each of leather and lining. I used a very heavy interfacing on my lining, it's similar in firmness to timtex. It's probably a little too stiff. The sides and bottom are sewn right sides together with an opening left in the bottom for turning. Once turned, the side seams and bottom seams are matched and the corners sewn across to form the bottom of the bag. Easy!

Let me show you a few of the construction details.

Oooops! The machine had a little trouble on that left corner. I cut pocket and lining to my dertermined size. I removed a scant 1/4" from from the sides and bottom of the lining. Sewed right sides together, turned the lining to the inside and stitched two rows of topstitching around the pocket. The first stitching caught the lining down and the second outermost row secured the pocket edge and encased the lining edge on the inside.

Here are the strap holders. These were also sewn in the flat although I forgot to take a shot of that phase of construction. The silver embelishments are large snap heads I had in the stash. Pretty easy to apply to the leather to my suprise.

A closer view.

A blurry pic of the side and a view of it open.

This was a pretty easy bag to sew overall. The most difficult part for me was getting that "dadgum" edge into the frame. My first attempt was messy and had to be aborted and cleaned up. Then I went back to the U-handblog tutorial and voila, it worked.

Kenneth King's Moulage

2008-05-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

I have been very impressed with the success people have had with drafting this moulage. I finally broke down and ordered a copy. When I first looked at the book on CD I was intimidated by all the calculations, but once I sat down with my measurements and went step by step it wasn't nearly as difficult as I had anticipated. Don't get me wrong, it took me hours and a bit of erasing, but in the end I was left with what I consider to be a pretty good moulage in need of only minor adjustments.

I admit that I was pretty eager to sew this up and see how well it was going to fit. This was a quick and dirty construction on my first go around. Please don't notice the puckering at the princess seam, the lapped zipper that isn't flush at the bottom or the dart leg that is too short. LOL Just thought I'd point those things out. {snicker}

Here is the first draft of my moulage without any corrections. The moulage front and back. Please excuse the poor composites. I still haven't figured out how to make them aesthetically pleasing.

Here is a side view. Notice how the side seam at the low hip level is pulling toward the back. I need to add some width to the back pattern piece.

Another view of the back with the excess pinned out for my sway back. It eliminates most of the wrinkles there. I think adding to the width at the side seam will remove the drag lines across my bottom.

To say that I'm delighted at how well this turned out is an understatement. It's not perfect, but for a first draft I'm excited at how well it fits. Any thoughts on additional alterations are welcome. I'm wondering if the armsye is ok. I think I need to add a little at the curve in the front, but just a smidge. This is going to be a really fantastic fitting tool when it's completed.

Home, sewing room, home

2008-04-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I've gotten it looking at least presentable. I still have some finish work to do on the sewing table (painting and edging), but it's functional and I'm loving my little girl cave.

This is my bookshelf which sits over my serging area. Yes, it's full of pink. I have three boys......need I say more?

Directly to the right of my serger area is my sewing machine.(And I mean directly to my right) I have my handy dandy cork board for displaying directions and inspiration photos. Yes, that's Vogue 1051 up there. I finished my first muslin and so far I'm pretty jazzed about these pants. I'll write a review when I get them perfected. As perfected as any pant pattern can be when I'm behind the sewing wheel.

Actually this space has more than one function. It's also my office. Here's my new computer. I wanted an Imac. I didn't want to spend twice as much. I got a Dell. {sigh} I decided to hold off on the sewing posters and found this old favorite in the attic. It's perfect!

My dressform and that tiny little mirror I thought would be just fine. It's not! I think at some point I'll put mirrored doors on the closet. This is a tiny room and I just don't have the wall space for an elaborate mirror system. But it beats standing on the tub, looking into the mirror over the sinks,trying to fit the back of my pants. Tomorrow I'm coming in here to spend some more time on V1051. Have a great weekend.

New Kwik Sew Patterns

2008-04-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

Kwik Sew was one of my favorite pattern companies a few years ago. For some reason, the last couple of years they've left me feeling a little uninterested. Granted, KS has never had the most exciting pattern pictures. You sort of have to get past that and just trust them. Still, nothing really caught my eye recently.

A few days ago I saw some of their new pattern releases. A few are really kinda cute! One of my favorites is this tee shirt pattern. Kwik Sew 3616. Very pretty and you get two totally different looks in the same pattern.

Another interesting everyday tee pattern. KS 3617

Need some shorts for this summer. KW 3614. There are lengths for every figure. Still, I think I'm gonna sit the fence on these until I see them reviewed on PR.

I've been feeling lately that my pattern stash is getting out of control. I did just add 8 new ones during the last Vogue sale at Joanns. Before I invest in these Kwik Sew patterns, I'd like to see some of them made up. So ladies......what are ya waiting for?

Sewing Decor

2008-04-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

I had intended to post some pics of my sewing room makeover, but my puter died! I have no idea how to upload pictures onto my husbands Imac so it will have to wait until I replace my laptop. In the meantime I've been looking at some sewing related artwork to hang on the walls in my teeny, tiny room. How about this?

Here is another really wonderful one.

I have limited wall space but I think I can find room for these two.

A NEW SPACE TO SEW

2008-03-31T08:03:00.000-07:00

It is with mixed feelings that I make this statement: I have begun to create a new sewing space for myself. I am both excited and melancholy about this new room. You see my oldest son has left home, leaving me with a room to do my creative work. I mourned when he left for college and the tears lasted for weeks. This time there are no tears, but a light sadness that seems to linger in the background. This time it's for REAL. He's off to find his way in the big bad world. So.....this is how I acquired a new room to transform into my own space. I truly do miss my son, buy may I say that I'm totally jazzed about having my own sewing room for the first time?!!!

To begin the planning of my sewing space I purchased a copy of the much lauded book "Dream Sewing Spaces" by Lynette Ranney Black. Considering this tiny 9' X 9' room will never be a "dream" sewing space, it can be an efficient and inspirational space just for me. The book has been extremely helpful in guiding the layout of my space, and I'm very glad that I bought it.

This room must also function as an office so the layout and efficient use of space is critical. The room is freshly painted and the floor plan is completed. My handy husband has finished construction of the L-shaped sewing table. I have ordered a folding cutting table that can be stored in a small space when not in use. If I'm lucky I'll be able to squeeze myself around it to cut when it's fully extended. The remaining work is basically just setting everything up. I plan on adding storage in the form of shelves and cabinetry, but I want to use the space first to decide what my needs are before investing in more "furniture" for the room. I'll try to get some pictures up in the next few days.

DESIGNER RTW CONTEST

2008-02-25T14:33:00.000-08:00

I entered a contest on Patternreview.com! The concept was to knock off a designer/RTW garment. I selected a dress from Carolina Herrera's 2008 Spring/Summer runway collection. You can see my review on PR. Below are a few of the pics that I took during construction.

Here is a shot showing the original (right-Ha) and my completed version.

This was my second muslin. Although it appears to be too short there is enough for a 1" hem allowance leaving the hemline just at the natural waistline. I wanted the sleeve edges of the bodice top to cover the little unattractive fold of skin at the armhole . Fashion tip: Don't wear a blue bra with a white top.

Here is the traced bodice pattern without seam allowances, placed on silk organza that has been put into an embroidery hoop. I will thread trace around the pattern and then I will begin the embroidery.

The flowers have been finished with the silk ribbon and the machine stitched "vines" have been completed, but the thread tails have not been taken to the back, tied and clipped.

The completed bodice. Details of the top's construction can be found at patternreview.com

A closer look at the Designer version on the left and mine on the right. It's not as detailed, dense, and professional looking but I think I captured the feel of the original.

Embroidery/beading detail

Pic of the binding used to finish the raw edges of the seam allowance at the back bodice. I stopped short at the edge to reduce bulk for insertion of the invisible zipper

This is a pic of the back. The invisible zipper was inserted upside down. This allows enough room to slip the top on without the need for a separating zipper. Finding a separating zipper this short would have been impossible.

The inside of the back of the top. Bias facings were applied to the armsye and neckline of the garment. A strait grain facing was applied to the hem allowance for a neat finish. All facings were hand applied and attached with tiny fell stitches caught onto the underlining only.

The back vent was simply tacked down with bias binding with fell stitches. The skirt hem allowance was also faced with binding and tacked by hand.

A view of the side of the completed outfit. Naturally, the camera picks up every little wrinkle and magnifies it. WHY IS THAT? LOL

The garment back. As you can see there is still some issues with seam allowance/undergarment show through, although the camera flash magnifies that. You've seen those pictures on Gofugyourself.com haven't you?!?

AND .......Now for something completly different and ridiculous courtesy of my 14 year old vidiographer. It's a little loud, fuzzy, my head is cut off and my top is stuck in the belt in the back. Note to self: wear belt slightly lower on hip. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8polPiIeeI

I wanted a red coat for Christmas

2007-12-21T07:17:00.000-08:00

Alas, it's not to be. I just haven't had the time to get to it. I have been considering a special treatment for the back of the coat, though. Just to give it a little additional interest. Perhaps this weekend I can squeeze out a muslin.

I did manage to finish my husbands new stocking. It's soooooo cute! Harley fan that he is, it's a replica of his HD boots. Even my three boys thought it was "awesome, Mom". I'll try to get a pic up later today after my camera battery charges. Happy Friday!

Mmmmmmmm A new red jacket!

2007-11-29T15:06:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting a red jacket this season in the worst kind of way. I found some really nice wool melton at Metro Textiles in NYC. Kashi's such a great guy and his prices can't be beat.

I found this oh so cute jacket pattern from New Look. I just love the collar and tea length sleeves on the long coat, but I really don't have a need for a coat like that in my wardrobe here in north Florida. Yes, it's cool here, but I think the short jacket will fill the need much better in that it's not soooo warm and a little more casual. I have a nice silk stripe that will make a great lining. Here's the pattern, what do ya think?

Before I can get on too that I must get a black skirt made for a christmas party I'm going to. As soon as that's done.....red jacket it up!

2007-08-28T04:44:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the look of this blouse. It's BWOF 12/2006. Yes, it's low cut and I have no intention of wearing it without a camisol underneath, but I love the body conscieness of it. My fabric choice has me feeling a little nervous though. I've been aging this wonderful rayon gauzy fabric in my stash for a few years and I finally decided to use it. This is uncharted territory for me so I decided to reference one of my favorite sewing tomes, Fabric Sewing Guide by Claire Shaeffer. Some helpful information there, but this fabric really falls into several categories.

My fabric is gauzy in nature, but not a true gauze, and it has a puckery sort of stripe woven in. Lovely, but careful planning is in order here. I've pressed a sample but the heat and pressure left it looking a little flat so I've decided not to press it. I may try pressing the seams only using a wooden dowel that my husband cut and sanded for me. It's a great little tool to prevent the imprint of the seam allowance from showing on the right side of the fabric, but it also allows me to just use the tip of my iron to gently press open a seam. We shall see how this progresses.

My fabric is cut and marked but now I have to make decision about interfacings. How I wish I had some silk organza in ivory to use as a stabilizer. It would be perfect. I must go through my stash and see what alternatives I can come up with.

More later on my current project. Happy Sewing!

I love Friday!

2007-05-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that my family moved recently. It's been a very hectic three months, but we are finally settled in. Most of the boxes are unpacked. Most important the sewing boxes are unpacked! Sadly,I no longer have a dedicated sewing room even though this house is bigger and has more bedrooms than my last. The boys are older now and no longer wish to share a bedroom. What's a mother to do?

I have set up my sewing space in my bedroom. Not ideal but better than nothing. Thankfully, our master bedroom is huge. One corner is for my sewing table and dress form. All I need now is one of those room divider screens and you'll never know it's back there.

I have managed to make a skirt since we've been here and I believe that's the first sewing I've done since the new year began. It's nothing special and from a TNT pattern, but it's cute and it will be a great skirt for the inevitable warm weather.

But.....back to Friday. The company that my husband is working for now takes every other Friday off. Isn't that great? After the kids got off to school we put on our helmets and took a nice ride on the Harley. That's a great way to start the weekend. Hope you have a good one too!

2006-11-21T08:32:00.000-08:00

THE STOCKING WERE HUNG BY THE CHIMNEY WITH CARE..................

Time is running out if I'm going to complete any holiday sewing this year. I've decided to limit myself to making stockings for a few special people. I usually don't enjoy this type of "crafty" sewing, preferring to spend my sewing time on garments, but I want to do something special in the stocking department this Christmas. I plan to personalize the stockings for the recipients, perhaps theming them to reflect the persons interests. I found this really cute pattern from Vogue.

I love the one that looks like a boot. Soooo Cute. I'm going to use some luxurious fabrics for the construction. What's so much fun about this project is that I can use up some of the scraps of fabric that I have been saving. So after Thanksgiving I'm going to give these stocking some serious thought. I've put the jogging suit on the back burner. First off is a Christmas dress for a party I was invited to and then I start in on these.

Could A Jacket Be Any Easier?

2006-11-13T13:31:00.000-08:00

Looking for a quick jacket to make that's cozy and cute? Look no further than Onion 1032. Onion patterns come from Denmark, and 1032 is a fitted raglan sleeved jacket or coat with shawl collar or hood. What makes this pattern so special is the darted back which makes for easy adjustments if you have a sway back. Although I don't usually go for raglan sleeves the darted shoulder allows the fabric to lay in a smooth line over the shoulder area. Once you get the pattern traced and altered, this goes together in a jiffy.

Suggested fabrics are felted wool and heavy knits. Unfortunately, there was no felted wool in my stash so the next best thing was a nice fleece that had been in there much too long. Truth be told, I hate fleece! It's Sew NOT Fashionable. It is comfy and warm but it usually looks just awful and cheap to me. This fabric really doesn't have that "fleece" look about it. You'd be hard pressed not to mistake if for wool on first glance. I'm glad now (hindsight and all) that I didn't have any felted wool ($$) in the stash because it allowed me to experiment with the pattern and work out any fitting adjustments.

CHANGES

The pattern is drafted with a tie front. I used buttons instead of the ties. I loved the way the burgundy buttons pop on the green fabric. Plus I didn't have any matching ribbon around so buttons it had to be. Ties however, offer lots of room for personalizing this coat. I also ended up removing much of the curved hem from the jacket. I was getting a bustle effect over my rear and lord knows my natural "bustle" is sufficient. Had I taken the time to pin out the darts and side seams before happily sewing it up, I probably could have avoided removing much of the length from the bottom. Here's the back.

If you are interested in seeing the line drawing or browsing Onion patterns, they are available in the USA from http://www.shoponion.com/

The Quintessential Jogging Suit

2006-11-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

In my recent endeavor to dress well and fashionably every day, I have given up the comfort of the “ever so easy to wear” jogging suit. Since I haven’t exercised in over a year and I always felt a little sloppy in them, what with the baggy jackets that never seem to flatter me, they had been banned from my wardrobe. This past week while sitting at my son’s hockey game and later at home, I began to get the urge for something a little more “relaxing” to wear. Let’s face it, my business clothes don’t really make me want to curl up on the sofa with a good sewing book if you know what I mean. Thus I discovered Jalie 2456! A girl can look stylish in a jogging suit if it’s figure flattering and in a good fabric, right?

I like that it is fitted and trim. The princess seams leave room for fitting finesse, and paired with my TNT lounge pants, could make a more stylish looking jogging suit. The brown stretch velvet in my stash is calling out to me. All I need now is a matching separating zipper. That might prove to be the hardest part of making this outfit come to life. Oh…….and by the way……don’t expect me to be jogging anytime soon.