A Galaxy Far, Far Away...

Best Halloween ever!! And probably the last one that I will ever make costumes for the entire family!! In reality, by the time next year rolls around, I will have forgotten the horrors of making four unique costumes in about a week's time (what can I say? I procrastinate), and will do it all over again. 

Let's start with the cute ones, shall we? 

Princess Leia was the easiest to make, hand's down. The white dress is a Little Girl's Skater Dress from Kitschy-Coo patterns. I used a white ponte knit. I lengthened the pattern by a couple of inches. It came together quickly and easily. For her belt, I used a silver metallic cotton blend and simply made a tube belt and glued some squares I made on top. Done! 

For Master Yoda, I used New Look 6170, a pajama pattern for the pants a shirt. These were made of a brown flannel. For the cape, I used Simplicity 1037. I made the cape using a linen blend fabric. I shortened the sleeves a bit. Not too bad so far. Bonus- the kid loves to wear the pajamas as pajamas!

Next, on to the adults. 

Kylo Ren, my husband! I used McCall's 7422 for this monstrosity. Actually, it really wasn't too bad to sew, but is a big fabric eater. There is a lined coat and lined surcoat. Accessories include the faux leather belt and the hood. I either was not paying well enough attention to the instructions, or the instructions were wrong in a few places. If I attached the lining as directed, I would not be able to turn inside out. I sort of did my own thing. The hood is made of linen. The coat is gabardine and lining. The surcoat is broadcloth and lining fabric. 

And finally, our heroine- Ray. I used McCall's 7421. This included a shirt, pants, tabard, gauntlets, and a belt. What the heck is a tabard or a gauntlet? This one was not difficult to sew but tedious. I found the instructions to be fine on this one. The shirt and gauntlets are made from an off-white jersey. Pants are a brown ponte. Tabard is tan gauze. Belt is faux leather. 

I cut corners where I could. If you allow yourself one week to make four costumes, you got to do what you got to do. I avoided hems where possible- particularly on my tabard- none of the edges are finished. 

And there you have it. We really did have a great Halloween this year and enjoyed showing off our group costumes. This was not the most economical proposition. In fact,we probably would have been better off in that regard buying the costumes from the store. We were close to the $200 mark for all four costumes. But mine have a little more detail and love (and anger, aggravation, annoyance, anxiety) poured in. 

~Jenny

Kiddie Parade

First off, here is our latest bundle of joy, Parker Michelle.

 

She was born on October 12, about 3 weeks early. She weighed in at 6 pounds, 5 ounces and was 19 1/2inches long.

 

 

 

Mommy and the rest of the family are doing well. My old routine of sewing when my eldest goes to sleep has been derailed by our newest addition. By the time they both go to sleep, Mommy is ready to pass out too! I'm hoping to get back in the swing of things as sleeping habits get better.

 

 

 

I was able to complete the majority of Logan's Halloween costume before Parker was born.  He was a cowboy this year.

 

I used McCalls 2851 for his vest and chaps. Both were insanely easy! I purchased both fabrics from Joann Fabrics, from their costume fabric section.

 

Prepster Pullover

 

I also made the chambray shirt under the vest using a PDF pattern from Blank Slate Patterns. First off, I've neglected sewing for my son mostly because the sewing pattern industry is geared toward little girls in the kiddie department. I was excited to stumble upon Blank Slate Patterns. They have a large selection of little boy patterns that are actually very cool! Secondly, this is my first experience with a downloaded pattern. It really wasn't all of the horrible things that I've read it could be! The printed pattern was taped together quickly and easily. I traced off Logan's size and the rest was cake! I recommend Blank Slate Patterns also for the instructions. The instructions literally take you step by step and are fully illustrated with photos.

 

 

That's all for now. I'm currently working on a lined jacket for myself. More to come soon!

 

~Jenny



Striped Maternity Dress

Another quick and easy maternity dress! This time I used McCalls 6612- NOT a maternity pattern. However, because this is a knit dress, it accommodated my swelling bump without adjustments.

 

I used a blue and green jersey I purchased at Joann Fabrics earlier in the Spring. You can't see it very well in the photo but there is a thin metallic thread running between each stripe which is a nice touch. I spent $22 on fabric.

When sewing garments made for knits with the Big 4, I usually go with 2 sizes smaller than what is recommended by the envelope. However, I only sized down by 1 size below my PRE-pregnant measurements and this worked out well.

The dress is fast and easy. I finished the neckline with seam binding- which was the only change I made.

I am really happy with this dress. It is comfortable and easy to wear- yet you still look a little more dressed up than typical maternity casual RTW. When I wore this out the first time, I received several compliments from friends. I was also stopped by a stranger who told me she was looking for cute maternity wear but couldn't find anything and wanted to know where I got my dress from! Another plus is that this will still work next year when I'm not pregnant!

~Jenny

Maxi Tank Dress

Sorry for the long silence over here. My last project (not blogged) left me defeated and sucked up my sewing mojo for a few weeks. It's dull and boring so I don't feel like blogging it.

 

Although the temperatures can't decide if it's Winter or Spring around here- I'm jumping into my warm weather sewing.

 

 

 

 

McCalls 6559

 

This dress was super fast and easy. I think it took me about 2.5 hours after cutting it out. There's really nothing to it. Just 2 pieces and minimal seams.

 

I used a jersey from GorgeousFabrics.com. Unfortunately it looks like it is sold out. I love the pretty earth tones in the print.

 

I made view D, the version pictured on the model. FYI... the envelope is a little deceiving unless you are good at paying attention to details- which apparently I am not. I assumed all of the views had the slight racer-back style which is what I had wanted. However, only upon closer inspection did I realize that it is view E and F that have the racer-back. I didn't even notice this until I had it all sewed up so there was no point in going back.

 

The pattern instructions would have you do a narrow hem on the neckline and arms. Whenever I attempt this on knits, it does not turn out well for me. It ends up looking sloppy and homemade. Instead, I finished these edges with seam binding.

 

I cut one size smaller than the pattern recommended- my usual adjustment. I did have to cut about 3 inches off the length to avoid stepping on the hem. My one complaint is the neckline ends up being a little too wide and/or low on me. When wearing a normal bra, I had to constantly hike up the dress so my bra wasn't showing. I will need to wear a tank under the dress to remedy this. Just something you may need to consider if your bust is on the smaller side.

 

Overall, I am happy with the finished dress. It is easy to wear, comfortable, and looks great!

 

Don't forget to checkout the Shabby Apple Giveaway! It is open until the end of April.

 

~Jenny  

 

Jungle Boogie Dress

 

 

At first I was Jungle Crazed. Then I had a case of  Jungle Fever. Now I want to do the Jungle Boogie! I hadn't intended on making a trilogy of animal prints but after the first two, I figured three is always better.

 

 

 

I used McCalls 6278 to make this little number. I had stumbled upon this stretch cotton sateen fabric from Fabric.com and knew it would be great in this color block dress. I used a stretch black sateen for the solid color and white Ambiance lining, both from Fabric.com as well. I spent about $40 to make this dress.

 

Although the dress was tedious to make, it was relatively easy. You see how the black fabric comes down in points on either hip? Those could present a challenge to some. The pattern instructions would have you attempt to sew this inset all in one seam, pivoting at the corners. This is what worked for me: sew one straight edge up to a point. Take the dress out, repin the next edge and sew from where you just left off to the next point, and so forth. It really was much more easier this way and created those nice sharp edges. The pain in the neck part: the lining is cut from the same pattern and so must be pieced together in the same way as the body. It would be much easier if the lining had it's own, basic pattern pieces in the shape of the dress.

 

 

 

I am happy with the end result. This dress is a little more form fitting and short than I usually go for but it's fun to wear. The hubby loves it! By the way, I did not make any alterations to size or length. If you are taller than 5'4", check out the length of the dress on the model. If you want this to be longer, you will need to add some length.

 

 

 

~Jenny

Graphic Shirt Dress

 

 

McCalls 6600

 

I've been wanting to make this dress for quite some time in a large scale graphic print. I spotted this polyester crepe de chine at Gorgeous Fabrics and fell in love with the large black and white print. I got it while Ann was running a sale and spent $27. I love the fabric! It's the perfect weight- I think I could wear this in Fall, Winter, and Spring. And it will travel well because it's virtually wrinkle free. I've sewed with both silk and polyester crepe de chine now and I think it's one of my favorite fabrics. It feels very luxe but sews up without any fuss.



 

I love the simplicity of this design. It's just an over sized shirt dress with tie belt but I really think it would flatter just about any body type. The instructions were fine. If you've every made any type of button up shirt then this will be a breeze.

 

The only change I made was to the length. I ended up shortening it by about 2 inches. It looked a little dowdy before I shortened it.

 

So I stepped out of my fashion comfort zone when I first wore this out (same day as photo shoot). Apparently bright tights in a contrasting color to your garment are all the rage. I really liked the look on others so gave it a try in these maroon tights. I have to admit, I felt a little silly at times. Not quite sure the look is for me with my shapely legs. Loved the dress with my new boots though! Next time, might go for a more monochromatic look with black or gray tights instead. 

 

~Jenny

 

Flounce Pencil Skirt

McCall's 5523

This skirt has been on my to do list for a while. I've been holding off on making skirts and pants until my body is more back to "normal". You're probably sick of hearing about the post-baby body already! Well, I think it's about as good as it's gonna get at this point!

I've always liked this pattern. I like pencil skirts- they really flatter a body even if you have curves. And I like the different back variations in this pattern. I made view A which has a flounce in back.

I used a stretch Vera Wang suiting from Fabric.com that I got a couple of years ago. Unfortunately it is sold out now. It was on clearance at the time and I only spent $7 for two yards!

The skirt was very easy to construct. I didn't get a great fit on it but that was my fault. I was afraid to go with my standard size 16 (again, because of the cursed post-baby body) so I graded up to somewhere in between a 16 and an 18. It ended up being too big and I had to take it in in places. I think if I had stuck to my 16 in the first place it would have fit a lot better.

Overall, I am happy with my skirt and would like to use the pattern again for different views in the future.

On another note, I wanted to share a great tip that I stumbled upon at Sophia Sews. She posted about Gingher's scissors sharpening service. Like Sophia, my Gingher shears had lost their original sharpness and my home sharpeners did not do the trick. I mailed my scissors off and had them back in about two weeks all shiny and new! For only $7.50, it's a great way to maintain your investment. And talk about customer service! I forgot to include my check in my package that I sent them. I was afraid I would never receive my shears back but after corresponding with them, I as able to pay separately and receive my scissors back safe and sound!

Next up, I am working on my Spring/Summer 2012 wardrobe. I've made a separate page- you can check it out by clicking on the button on top. I've already finished five of the seven blouses. I will start posting soon!

~Jenny

New McCall's Picks

To be honest, I haven't been impressed with McCall's patterns for close to a year now. However, some of their newest patterns are really intriguing!

I really like the shape and ruffle placement of 6518- Looks so fun and flirty!

Next is this color blocked tank, 6511. I especially like it in the monochromatic tones.

I also like the shape of these blouses in 6512. Love the tie neck with the shirttail hem line!

And finally, I really like the twist on the classic wrap top with these styles in 6513.


Yep, I definitely need these four patterns! Which ones do you have to have?

~Jenny

Halloween Costume 2011

I'm still here! Unfortunately I have not been doing a whole lot of sewing and even less blogging. I have lots of ideas for this blog and want to be more involved but I am struggling to find the time for both sewing and blogging with the new baby. I know many of you have little ones at home. Any tips? How do you fit sewing into your life?

I did manage to sew this costume for Logan. I stayed up sewing after he fell asleep at night to get it done. Maybe that's how I will need to do the rest of my sewing!

I used McCalls 6105. It was actually easy to sew, just tedious with all of the little pieces. I think I spent about 8 hours on it. I made some minor changes to the construction to save time. Logan did really well with it. I thought he would refuse to wear the hood but he tolerated it for a few hours before getting fussy.

It is getting very chilly, very fast in my neck of the woods. I have two Burda jackets that I would love to work on next. Hopefully you'll be seeing those soon!

Daddy was a doctor for his group theme at work. I was a last minute angel as you can see!

~Jenny

Pattern Review: McCall's

According to the McCall's website, this one is already out of print...



Pattern Description: Misses' Lined Jackets: semi-fitted jacket with pleated front, back, and collar has collar band and yoke, sleeve variations and button closing: jackets A, B have trim.

I made view C, with elbow length, cuffed sleeves.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern is available in sizes 6-20. I made a 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, very much so.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I thought the instructions were easy to follow. There are quite a few details including lots of pleats, yoke pieces, and lining to name a few. This took me 9 hours of sewing time (not including cutting) to make but this was also due in part to the fabric I used which I will explain below.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the large, pleated collar- I think it makes this jacket unique. I also like the pleating along the jacket front and back. I like the baby-doll shape as well. No dislikes.

Fabric Used: I used this tweed from Denver Fabrics. They called it a "boucle", but it is more of a tweed. I spent $12.50 on the tweed. I got a polyester satin for the lining.

The tweed became the bane of my sewing existence! I love the finished look but it was a pain in the tush to get there. To start with, it was very tough on the hands to cut out. The fabric is very prone to fraying and unraveling. By the end of this project I had little threads pulled from the raw edges all over my sewing room and tracked through the house. Although the seams are enclosed by the lining and facings, I did not trust the fabric to not unravel. So after I straight stitched the seam, I zigzagged each raw edge separately to prevent the unraveling. Certain parts of the garment such as the neck edge became very bulky with all of the layers of tweed. Needless to say, I think it will be awhile before I work with this fabric again. I need to wait until I have forgotten how much I despised it.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: So I cut this out to fit my pre-pregnancy waist of 31 inches. The baby-doll shape gives it so much wearing ease- it fits my now 42 inch pregnant belly and then some. I didn't make any changes except for omitting the interfacing. I felt that the tweed was bulky and sturdy enough to hold up in the areas that usually need it.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I don't think I will sew this one again because there are many other jackets I want to do. I do like how it came out though! I would recommend this one to others.

Conclusion: Great cool weather jacket and I think the tweed looks awesome in the end! *Note: I am not sure how much I would like this if I were not pregnant. The baby-doll shape gives it quite a bit of ease and it may look maternity on someone who is not pregnant. I could be wrong though- will try this on again after Baby arrives!



A view from the side:


Showing the lining:


~Jenny

Pattern Review: McCall's

So I know you all made this like one or two years ago but I'm finally catching up on the trends...



Pattern Description: Misses' cardigan in three lengths: flared open front cardigan has irregular hem. I made C, the longest length.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern is available in sizes x-small to xx-large. I made a large (16-18).

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, the instructions were very easy. This wasn't quite a one hour pattern. I would say sewing time took two hours, with the hemming taking the longest amount of time. In the future, I may try cutting this out with a rotary cutter and leaving the raw edges un-hemmed, as others have suggested.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like how easy this went together. There were no side seams. Simply set the sleeves in and hem the edges! As others have mentioned, one might have to adjust the pattern piece for the width between the sleeves before cutting out, since there is no side seams.

Of course I like how this cardigan can be worn in endless different ways. Check out the DKNY website for ideas.

Fabric Used: Rayon jersey from fabric.com. This only cost me $9.96!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: As you can see from the photo- I am very pregnant, almost 8 months. However, I made no adjustments.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I might sew this one again. It's a versatile piece that will travel well too.

Conclusion: I plan on wearing this one after having the baby too. With my large belly, I can't tie the ends in all the fancy ways. It really only fits with the ends hanging or wrapped around the shoulders. However, I am looking forward to wearing the cardigan in many different ways once Baby has been born!



~Jenny

Pattern Review: McCall's 5812- The Senorita Skirt

So I started this project in Spring 2009. I tossed it aside to complete less tedious projects. I couldn't get the thread tension right on this very lightweight fabric. I finally used a smaller needle and problem solved! After much procrastinating, I brought this one back out and finished it. I am glad I did. It turned out beautiful... at least I think so!

A tiered skirt from Neiman Marcus for $695 by Jean Paul Gaultier:



I know the picture is tiny. Here is the link.

Now, I did splurge on the fabric. The skirt calls for 7 3/4 yards of fabric! This can easily add up. I wanted something lightweight and flowy. I had my eye on this cotton voile for quite some time. I picked it up when it was on sale for $6.08 a yard and I got 8 yards. The good news is, I ended up leaving off the bottom tier of the skirt. Plus I think Ann at Gorgeous Fabrics is a little generous with her cuts. So I ended up with at least a yard and a half extra and will be trying to squeeze a blouse out of it.

Pattern Description: Tiered skirts, ankle length, have yoke, side zipper and unfinished edges; skirt B has contrast tiers.

I made view A, with the matching tiers.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern comes in sizes 6-20. I made an 18 but ended up taking in the waist and making other adjustments.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? We got there in the end. But the waistline is different.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, the instructions were fine; HOWEVER: I believe the waistband pieces to be incorrectly drafted... more on this below.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Like: I like the look of the tiered skirt. The raw edges are exposed in the tiers which creates a slightly different look than all of the prairie skirts out there.
Like: I love the end product- it's a beautiful, flowy skirt perfect for Spring/Summer.
Dislike: Not counting the waistband pieces, there are 6 tiers to cut out. Depending on the tier level, there were up to four long pieces of fabric to cut out for each tier. It was a lot of cutting! Tip: use a rotary cutter if you have one, it makes cutting the long straight pieces much easier.
Dislike: All of the gathering and basting and ripping out basting took FOR-ever. The pattern instructions have you gather the top edge of the next lower tier. Then you are to overlap the bottom edge of the upper tier and the gathered edge of the lower tier by 1/2" and sew it in place. Doing this accurately with gathered fabric was a bit of a challenge. My fabric is voile and relatively sheer. I ended up doing my gathering basting in a dark, contrasting thread for easier ripping outage. I then ran a line of basting along the bottom edge of the top tier 1/2" away. That way I could match up the 1/2" markings and pin in place- lots of pins! I would then sew this in place with my permanent thread and rip out all of the basting. Only to do it all over for the next tier!
Dislike: The waistband pieces drove me bananas before I realized they are incorrectly drafted. More below...

Fabric Used: A beautiful cotton aqua voile from Gorgeous Fabrics. It has since sold out. The only other items I needed were thread and a zipper. For the very lightweight voile, I used a small needle: size 65/9.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
- There are six tiers below the waistband. I left off the 6th tier and only did 5 due to my short stature (5' 3"). The length turned out perfect.
- Waistband pieces: ARGH! Basically, the waistband consists of two pieces (pieces 7 and 8). Piece #8 is supposed to be sewn on top of piece #7. If you look at the pattern envelope, you will get a better idea of what I am talking about. So I sewed in the bottom of the waistband (#7) to the 1st tier without a hitch. Then the instructions have you sew #8 to the top of #7. There was no mentioning of having to ease either piece to fit. I couldn't understand why the bottom of piece #8 was way too huge to fit the top of piece #7. This probably but me out of commission for at least an hour while I stared at the pieces and retraced my steps. Had I made a mistake? The waistband is sewn in last by the way, after you have finished all of the tiers. Had I wasted hours of gathering and basting only to have the waistband not work for me? I then got to looking at the pieces:

Here is a picture of how the two pieces should be sewn together. Now how am I supposed to fit the bottom of #8 onto the top of #7?



Then the light bulb went on. Here are the two pieces, one on top of the other. They are exactly the same piece! There is a small giveaway that the pieces are drafted incorrectly: both pieces have the waistline marking in exactly the same place!!



So to make a very long story short- after a big pity party, I creatively finished the skirt. I left off the top piece of the waistband entirely and kept piece #7 attached. I finished this as the waistband. I had to take it in about 1/2" each side to prevent the skirt from being too low slung. It is still a little big but I think my hips will hold it up!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? NO, I will definitely not sew this one again. I do love the end product but it took a lot of work to get there. I would recommend the pattern as long has you take note of my trials and tribulations so you can avoid them.

Conclusion: I love the finished product! It has a very senorita vibe and will be great worn with a pair of summery shoes.

This picture makes me look like I have a beer belly- I swear it's just the way the blouse bellows out!





The voile is slightly sheer so I will wear a pair of leggings under the skirt. I can't wait to go out on a dinner date or something else special so I can wear this. I know I always harp on the jean jackets but I think this would be super cute with a little white camisole and a white jean jacket over it.

~Byrdie

Pattern Review- McCall's 5819

I finally finished this outfit. This is one of the items in my cut, but not sewn pile that I'm trying to bust out. I really like these pants, and would use this pattern again to make several pairs of the pants. They are so comfortable!

The whole outfit together is my "I'm not getting off the couch right now so don't even try" look. The whole look is just a little too much velour for me to go out in public. However, I wore the pants out today for some errands, paired with a cute tee and jean jacket.

Here is the little blurb I added to my review on the pant: They went together quickly and easily- in less than 2 hours. I did a size 14 as well, two sizes smaller than my measurements. Instead of using a rib knit for the waistband, I cut the waistband out of the same fabric, cut on the cross grain. This worked perfectly and I like that the waistband matches the rest of the pant. These pants are so comfortable! I think I will made more pairs of the pants. However, they are very roomy in the leg- I think I will slim down the leg next time.




~Byrdie

Spring Top Part 1: McCall's 5665

Can you tell I'm anxious for Spring? The New Mexico weather is teasing us. On Saturday it was a bright and sunny 60 degrees. On Sunday, it was snowing buckets. I'm a sucker for easy breezy Spring tops- especially peasant styles.

I've got about five projects that have been cut out but not sewn that I am working on busting out. This one has been cut out since last Spring.

Pattern Description: MISSES’ AND WOMEN’S TOPS: Tops A, B in two lengths have front and back gathers, self-faced yokes and bubble sleeve in two lengths; top A has short sleeves and is shorter length; top B has elbow length sleeves, patch pockets, optional purchased belt and is longer length.

I made view A- the shorter length.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 8- 24W are available. There is quite a bit of ease with this pattern- I made two sizes smaller than what my measurements called for.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes- the instructions were fine.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the shape and lines of the blouse. I like the gathering along the bodice and the button up style. I also like the bubble sleeves. I didn't have any dislikes.

Fabric Used: A cotton lawn from Denver Fabrics. . I really like the print of this fabric- it has a vintage feel.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: A very minor change- the pattern instructions does not have you finish the edge of your facings. I did this for a cleaner look.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I might use this pattern again. I think if I do, I will go with regular sleeves instead of the bubble ones. They are cute but I felt a little strange in them.

Conclusion: Very easy to wear spring top. I wore mine out with a pair of jeans and ballet flats.



~Byrdie

Pattern Review- McCall's 5819

And that's all folks... this is my final entry into the Pattern Stash Contest at Pattern Review, bringing the grand total to 18 garments in two months. I have enjoyed participating in this contest but am glad to put it behind me. Now I can start working on some newer patterns that didn't qualify for the contest! I have a few garments that I will be finishing that I had cut out before the contest began but didn't finish. You'll be seeing those soon!

In October, there will be a new contest for creating a little black dress (LBD) that can be worn for either day or evening. One of my hancock today purchases was fabric for my LBD!



Pattern Description: This is a pattern for loungewear/activewear separates. There's the short sleeved top, a jacket, a long sleeved top, shorts, and pants with different variations. This is a "diy style" pattern. IMO, it's McCalls version of the Project Runway patterns from Simplicity. Throughout the instructions the pattern gives you different design ideas so that you can make it unique.

Pattern Sizing: This is available in sizes 4-18... I made a 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy. I didn't have any difficulty putting this together.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the neckline of the top- it has a drawstring that gathers the neckline. I also like the kagaroo pockets- they are cute. I have the pants cut out and will update this when I have made them too. I liked this pattern to make a velour loungewear outfit to wear around the house.

I dislike how puffy the sleeves are. I'm all for girly details- but they go a little too far IMO.

Fabric Used: Velour from Denver Fabrics. .

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I did not add the ribbed knit to the sleeve hem. Instead, I folded up the hem and stitched in place. Other than that, I went down one size from what the pattern recommened according to my measurements.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Hmm... I don't know if I will use this one again. If I like how the pants comes out, I will probably make more pairs for wearing around the house.

Conclusion: Cute top. In velour, it is very comfortable to wear. Can't wait until I have the matching pants.



This photo is lightened up quite a bit so you can see the details:


~Byrdie

McCalls 5804- Pattern Review

As promised, here is one of my recent creations. I made a "Hilary Duff" pattern for the first time. Other than her photo on the envelope I wonder what she actually has to do with the design. But I think a lot of "her" patterns are fresh designs and very wearable.

I really like the bodice of this dress- it is pleated at the neckline and has gathers under the bust. The midriff is pulled in which creates a flattering look for the midsection. And it's lined which gives you the opportunity to use a fabric that would otherwise be too sheer for a dress.

I used an embroidered, swiss dot cotton material from Gorgeous Fabrics. I spent about $24 on that fabric. For the lining I used bemberg voile lining, also from Gorgeous Fabrics. I love this lining! I have used it in more than one project and it has a nice soft feeling against the skin. It's a little difficult to sew with because it squirms around quite a bit, but the finished product is very nice. I spent about $15 for the lining. Then I just needed a zipper for the back.

The pattern is called "easy", and it very much is. I probably spent about 5-6 hours total to put the dress together. I did not have any problems with interpreting the instructions.

I usually go down a size in the Big Four patterns. I usually make a size 16 which is what I made this. However, I've lost some weight and could have gone down to a 14. It's not huge- but could probably be better fitting around the bust and midriff. I am also a shorty and usually have to take length off. However, I actually added about two inches to the length because I didn't want it as short as it is in the photos. I am happy with the new length.




Overall, I am happy with the dress. It is great for warmer weather. The swiss-dot combined with the lining are still light enough to keep me cool when it's hot outside. This one will look cute with a cardigan over it as well.

~Jenny