Running Skort

Hello, long time no see!  We have moved states, started new jobs, and new daily routines with the kids. It's been difficult to sew regularly, but I'm trying to get back to it. My other ambition, aside from sewing, is running. I'm not very good at it but always trying to get better! I've wanted some cute running skorts for quite some time. 

 

I used Jalie Sport Skort pattern. For my first skort, I used some remnant spandex from previous projects. I cheated and used ITY for the accent- but wanted to be able to get some animal print in. 

These were quick and easy to sew. I used my serger for the seams. I used a wide zigzag stitch for the hem. My photos don't capture the cute details but these have a side pocket which was able to fit my smart phone. I love the wide waistband. These are comfortable and didn't shift or ride up anywhere while I ran. They are short- but not too short. The length of the shorts was long enough to protect from thigh chaffing but nice and short to keep cool in the hot Summer heat. 

I have a couple of really cute spandex prints in my stash that I will be using to make more of these up! Until next time... 

~Jenny 

Christmas Dresses

Happy New Year! Before the holidays get too far away from us, I thought I better post my creations for Christmas this year. The story on these dresses is kind of funny. I was in Joann Fabrics and came across this lovely fabric. It has a black lace effect over a nude base with some gold and silver shimmer to it. I end up buying 3.5 yards, imagining I would make it into some sort of party dress for the holiday season. 

We can't take a picture together where we both look normal. I must opt for the ones I look decent in- you understand. 

I got home, washed it, and hung it up to dry. Along comes my 3 year old daughter. As soon as she lays eyes on the fabric, she gasps and exclaims "Mama, I need a dwess (spelling intended)". Being the selfish mama that I am, I hadn't exactly planned on sewing her one as well. But I couldn't disappoint. I scoured my pattern collection for a mama and daughter duo that would fit into the allotted fabric length I purchased. 

For her, I used New Look 6205. I made view A. Her dress went together very quickly. I added some black ribbon to the waistline for a little something special. She wears a 3T in RTW, I ended up going with a size 4 on the pattern- glad I did because it fits her perfectly. I think a 3 would have been too small. 

For my dress, I ended up going with my tried and true Colette Laurel pattern. I've made it twice before- my first (and favorite) rendition is here. It's a basic shift dress that doesn't require a lot of yardage- perfect for my mission to squeeze two garments out of what I got from Joann's. I didn't make any changes except for adding a couple inches of length. 

I am very happy with the way the two dresses turned out. We wore these together for Christmas Eve. We got lots of compliments. I had spent $35 on the fabric- not bad for 2 "fancy" dresses! 

Posing with big brother!

No end of the year wrap up for me. If I posted my top 5 makes, it would be my only 5 makes!! I had made more, but I have a hard time getting all my makes posted. Maybe I can work on posting more frequently this year...

~Jenny 

Color Block Dress

Happy Fall! Today I am showing off my color blocked dress I made from Simplicity 1276. This is a design from the always unique and stylish Mimi G! 

I made view A, with the flared skirt, but used the elbow length sleeves. I used ponte roma knits from Low Price Fabrics. I lined the dress with a white tricot that I believe came from Low Price Fabrics as well. I'm guessing I spent about $30 including notions. 

The dress went together easily. I made my standard one size smaller than recommended by the pattern envelope. The instructions are good. I know Mimi G did some accompanying videos that give you lots of great construction tips. I was lazy though- I just did my own thing. 

The torso came out a bit long on me- I should have shortened this by 1/2 an inch or so. The fit is otherwise decent. My one complaint is that the thick ponte knit tends to bunch up in the back of the dress, creating back fat rolls that I don't have. Perhaps this could have been solved by shortening the torso so that it lays flat. I wear this dress with a jacket though so that no one gets an eyeful of the back. I know, I know- make a muslin! I can't do it people!

Overall I am happy with this dress. It looks great with tights, boots and a jacket in the Fall! 

~ Jenny 

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

Classic Button-downs

Hi all! I've got some catching up to do! This will catch us up on four more garments, one pattern. I've found my Holy Grail for a button-down shirt! Vogue 8772 is the perfect pattern for me! It is a classic button-down shirt with front and back darts that give it a feminine shape. Long-sleeve, short-sleeve, and sleeveless versions are all included and you can even add a tie bow. These aren't earth shattering but they work really great in my new work wardrobe. Check out the collection I'm working on here. 

I made one size smaller than the envelope recommends based on my measurements. I have not made any adjustments to any of the versions. Lucky for me, it fits great right out of the envelope! Instructions are great and this sews up fairly quickly. 

This is made from a blue and white textured cotton I picked up at Joann Fabrics. It's light-weight and great for the warmer weather. 

This one is made from a blue cotton shirting. 

This is made from a cotton lawn from Mood Fabrics


.

This one isn't the greatest pic to show off the fabric and what's up with that wonky collar? Sheesh. This is a white cotton shirting with black polka-dots from Joann Fabrics.

I know I will be making more of these in the future. You can't go wrong with this classic style. I'm currently working on my little family of four's Halloween costumes. Let's just say they are from a galaxy far, far, away... 

~Jenny

Sewaholic Nicola Dress, Version 2

Hello friends! I am excited to post another project. Believe it or not, I actually have 10 finished garments that I need to post; however, I haven't found the time to take pictures of them. I am hoping I can get my husband to do a weekly, or even bi-monthly photo session so I can post more often. 

Before I get into the dress, I want to vent about some shopping stress that only sewcialists can relate to. If you've read previous posts (and thank you if you have), you know that I have made some changes in my career and will be transitioning from wearing scrubs to "business casual" for the medical office setting. For several months I have been focusing my sewing efforts on my work wardrobe. However, I have also been shopping for some ready to wear items to fill in some gaps and continue to build my work wardrobe. It's been much more difficult than I thought. I've been sewing the majority of my clothes for the last few years so had been out of the department stores for quite some time. I've been very discouraged by what I've been seeing so far. Much of the clothing within my price range is just poorly made! Cheap fabric, cheap closures, ill fitting. If I shop above my price comfort zone, it is difficult for me to justify spending at least $100 for a dress that I know I could make for $30 and of equal (or better) quality. 

I made the jacket in my profile picture for about $20. It is cotton seersucker, has a partial lining, bound seam allowances and shoulder pads. I love it- need to wear it more often! I made this jacket back in 2012- however, I saw at least 3 similar jackets of equal or lesser quality for about $100 during my recent shopping expeditions. It just makes me really love sewing even more when I think about what we can do with it! Now there are two stores (one company) that I can never go wrong at: Ann Taylor and Loft. Although their price points are a bit higher, they put on some decent sales. Plus, I am willing to pay more for the quality of fabric and styles. The quality is great. I have slacks from Loft that I've had for 8 years that look just as good as when I first purchased them. 

My husband loves to cut feet off in pictures! Details that only I notice. 

Alright already, back to the dress. I've made the Sewaholic Nicola dress before. I just love the fit and the design details. I knew I had to make one for the warmer weather. 

This time I used a daisy print rayon from an Etsy seller. I bought 4 yards for $20, then buttons and elastic.

There are quite a few steps to sewing this dress but nothing that is difficult. Sewaholic offers great instructions with their patterns. 

I did not make any alterations- sewed the size recommended by my measurements. They are designed for pear shapes- yeah for my curvy hips and big booty! But if you are less curvy, you may need to adjust accordingly. I think this design is universally flattering though- with its flowy design and waist cinching.

This was another winner for me! It is easy to wear and will look great in the office- maybe with a cardigan thrown over it. 

Do you still shop ready to wear? Where do you find your favorite things? 

~Jenny

Floral Lady Skater Dress

Hard to believe almost half a year has passed since my last post! I'm happy to report that I am finished with grad school to become a nurse practitioner! This endeavor has practically consumed me for the last two years. I am excited that it is over and look forward to the new opportunities waiting for me. I will begin my first NP job in a couple of months. In the mean time, I plan on catching up on some much needed sewing and will continue to focus on items that I can wear to my future office job. Check out my work inspired capsule here. 

As usual, I am late to the party. This is my first time making the Kitschy Coo Lady Skater Dress that was all the rage when it first came out three years ago. Don't get me wrong, people are still making it. I'm just never one to jump on the bandwagon right away.  

I used a very pretty floral ponte that I purchased during a trip to Seattle at District Fabric. Coming from a place where we only have Joann Fabrics, District Fabric was a treat to be able to shop at. It is a small store with a huge variety of unique fabrics. I highly recommend a visit if you are in the area. They do sell a few fabrics online, but it doesn't compare to going to the store in person. This is one of many fabrics I picked up there. I believe it was between $6 and $7 per yard. 

The sizing of the dress was spot on for me. I made the size as recommended by the measurement chart. I added 2 inches to the length. I wanted it to hit below the knee to make sure it was work-appropriate. 

I sewed this up in one evening, mostly on my serger. It probably took me about 3 hours. The instructions were thorough. I think this would be a great dress for a novice or someone new to sewing knits. 

I got several compliments the first time I wore this. I love that it can be casual or dressed up- perhaps with a blazer or cardigan. I'm sure I will be making this one again. 

~Jenny 

Sewaholic Nicola Dress

Introducing one my my new favorite dresses- the Sewaholic Nicola dress! I was instantly drawn to this pattern. I just love the design. It is very feminine and has a 70's vibe. I knew it would fit perfectly in my Work-Wear Inspired Capsule. 

I love working with prints! I know some people struggle with them but I think I've developed a good eye for what print works with what style. I discovered this print at Joann Fabrics. It is a rayon fabric with these beautiful Fall colors. I knew in an instant that it was meant for this dress. Joann Fabrics isn't one my favorite places to shop for fabrics, but sometimes you happen to find a treasure among all the polar fleece, lol! I spent about $20 for the fabric. 

I printed this pattern as a PDF. I used to dread PDF patterns, but not so much anymore. They are instantly delivered and at a better price. I'm sure with all the paper printing and ink used, it's a wash. But I tell myself I'm doing a better thing for the environment anyway. My ritual includes putting on my favorite show, pouring a glass of wine, and taping that monster up!

The instructions and illustrations are great. I didn't have any issues sewing this up. As for fit, I sewed up the size recommended by the pattern without issue. This dress is meant to have a flow and some ease so is quite accommodating to different sizes and shapes. 

I love the end result. This will look great with heels as pictured, or paired with some boots. I don't mind the fabric belt but I can always switch this out for a different look. It's very easy to wear and will be great for long work days. I'm going to have to make the short sleeved version when the weather warms up again.

And that's probably it for 2015! I've got some other makes that I need to post but don't think they will be up before the new year. I wasn't as productive this year but I feel like everything I made was high-quality and will get tons of wear in my new position coming up this next year. And as school comes to an end this next year, I should have much more time to get back to the sewing room more often. 

Wishing everyone a fabulous and blessed 2016! 

~Jenny 

Black and White Peplum Top

This is a long time overdue. I finished this top several weeks ago as part of my business-casual inspired wardrobe. I'm in a love-hate relationship with it. 

Pictured here with my pencil skirt. Don't mind my curly hair fly-aways. 

I used Vogue 9056. I was drawn to this pattern because I really like the shape of this design.There is a gap in my capsule that needs to be filled with comfortable but stylish tops. 

Photo-bombed by a 4 year old. Hey kid, don't you know that modeling me-makes is serious business?

The fabric is from Joann Fabrics. It is a sweatery double knit fabric. I really like the print. Sure, it reminds me of draperies but I think that's what drew me to it. 

I did need to make a few changes. I'm guilty of not always reading the description and did not realize that this is designed to have a raw finish- yuck! I finished the neckline with seam binding. I hand-sewed the seam binding down to create a cleaner look. And I hand-sewed the hem on both the sleeves and bottom hem. The top as drafted has quite a bit of ease. I took in approximately another 5/8" on each side seam, blending the sleeve seam allowance with the bodice seam allowance. 

Worn with my favorite slacks- from Loft. 

So I've worn this a couple of times already. It is comfortable and goes with different things in my wardrobe. The one drawback is that at certain angles, I'm pretty sure I give off the pregnancy vibe. I'm more vane than I like to admit and not sure I can deal with the insta-pooch. 

What do you think? 

~Jenny 

Jersey Wrap Dress

Wrap dresses are probably one of the most universally flattering styles. I've made this dress before- apparently back in 2009! I love how blogging has allowed me the opportunity to journal my makes! This is a timeless, classic style that will never go out of fashion. And I decided I needed one for my business-casual inspired capsule. The pattern is Vogue 8379.

The fabric is an ITY jersey print from www.LowPriceFabric.com. I ordered a couple of prints during a sale and this was one of them. The colors are black, burgundy, and white. I love the print- it reminds me of some of the classic DVF wraps. I spent about $15 on the fabric. 

I made one size smaller than my first attempt. I also have a serger now and serged most of the seams up. I interfaced the dress from the neck facing, down to the hem along the front edges. And I shortened this a bit by taking up a 2" hem instead of a 1 1/4". 

I think this will be a great piece in my new work wardrobe. It can be styled with different jackets and cardigans, or worn as is. 

~Jenny 

Work Worthy Button-up and Pencil Skirt

And here are two more additions to my work inspired capsule collection. 

For this shirt I used Simplicity 1941. The fabric is a white specialty cotton from Joann Fabrics. It was $19.50 for the fabric. I really love the texture of the fabric with its embroidery detail- you may not be able to make it out in the photos. 

I like the princess seams of this pattern. This pattern includes fit-as-you-go instructions. I ended up nipping it in a little here and there for a more fitted look. I also like the pleating of the sleeves. It gives it a more feminine look without going overboard. 

This was very easy to sew and a great addition to the work wardrobe. It will go with a variety of bottoms, toppers, and accessories. 

For the skirt, I used Hot Patterns 1011. First let me reminisce- this is the very first pattern I blogged about here! Man, I looked young! I still have the denim version of this skirt and continue to wear it. 

The fabric was out of my stash. It is a gray, stretch suiting from Gorgeous Fabrics. I don't remember exactly how much I paid but I would imagine between $10-$15 a yard. I used about 1 yard for this.  I love the feel of this fabric- the perfect weight and stretch for work-wear. 

This skirt was super easy to sew!

I've already worn this skirt several times. It works great with several different blouses I own. 

~Jenny 

Black and White Wrap Dress

I've actually been doing quite a bit of sewing! Lately, I've been sticking to a capsule-wardrobe plan for everything that I've been making. As a nurse, I really don't put much thought into what I wear to work. It involves solid colored scrub pants in a small variety of colors and a solid, white scrub top (yes, white!). When I graduate from my master's program to become a nurse practitioner (9 months away!), I will actually have to put some thought into what I wear. I've created a sewing plan that includes a wardrobe of several pieces that can be mixed and matched with each other to give lots of variety. As I continue to post more and more items, I will add them to my capsule page, which you can click on at the top to visualize all of the pieces together. 

So my first piece, is this black and white faux wrap dress. The pattern is New Look 6097- apparently out of print. 

I used a black and white ponte knit from Girl Charlee. I no longer see this print, but they have several other options. I spent about $19 for fabric. I love the beefy hand and graphic print! 

The construction was quick and easy. I made a few design/constructions changes: 

• I wanted the longer sleeves without the extra bulk of the cuff and tabs at the hem. So I simply omitted those details. 
• I opted against the belt buckle and made a tie belt instead. I added length to the belt piece so that it would be long enough to tie. 
• I initially top-stitched the neck binding down as the instructions would have you do. It ended up looking bulky and the binding tended to flip out. I ripped out the top-stitching and hand stitched the binding down instead. This made for a much cleaner look. 
• I added about an inch to the overall length with wide hem tape. 

One change I wish I had made that I didn't was to add more length to the hem before cutting the dress out. I intend to wear this dress in an office setting and it's just a bit too short in my opinion. I wish it hit a little below the knee. It's not terribly short, but as a matter of personal preference, I would prefer if it were a bit more longer. 

Overall, I really like this dress. It's easy to wear and the wrap style is super flattering! To change up the look, it is easy to throw a cardigan or blazer on. I've shown it here with a black blazer I picked up at Target. 

~Jenny 

Maritime Shorts and a Renfrew

It is quickly getting warm around these parts, and I desperately needed a well-fitting pair of shorts. I've shed some weight over the last few years and many of my shorts have quickly taken on the dreaded "mom" look. I'm no longer actively participating in a RTW fast. However, since fasting all of last year, I've become more critical of the things I buy in stores. I've become more aware of quality workmanship, or the lack thereof. Simply put, I can make things that are better fitting, and of higher quality than the things I can find in stores on the same budget. This was true of finding a perfect pair of shorts.

 

 

 

I used a dark blue, stretch denim that I had in my stash. I couldn't tell you where or when I got it, other than I know it came from an online purchase. I do recommend the stretch as these are a close fitting pair of shorts.

 

I haven't had the greatest luck with making pants or shorts in the past. I came across the Grainline Maritime Shorts pattern. The pattern had all of the details I was looking for. After a quick Google search, I found several cute, well-fitting pairs on other women. So I decided to give it a go.

 

These went together quickly and without any hiccups. The instructions are adequate. There is a tutorial available on Jen's blog where she shows you step by step how to complete them.

 

I chose the size according to my measurements on the size chart. As far as fit, I did not have to make any changes. They fit great around the waist and hips. For personal taste, and for a more flattering look on myself, I added enough length to give me a 5 inch inseam. The hook and eye closure on the waistband lasted one wearing before popping off. So I added a buttonhole and jeans button for a sturdier closure.

 

 

My final verdict: the perfect pair of summer shorts! They are well-fitting and flattering. I seem to always have rear-view issues but these really are flattering from all angles. They have received repeated wear already. I will have to make another couple of pairs for some variety.

 

I paired this with my latest Renfrew Top from Sewaholic Patterns. I think this is my favorite style: short sleeved, with a V-neck. My summer uniform! I used a cotton/lycra print from Girl Charlee. This particular print does not appear to be in stock anymore. This is my 5th version so I won't do a full review. But you can check out my other versions:

 

Version 3&4

Version 2

Version 1

 

And while we are on the subject of knit tops, I recently purchased a Brother serger machine. I got the DZ1234, which as far as I can tell is the same as the 1034D, but came with some extra feet. Holy moly, I never knew what I was missing out on! After about an hour of getting to know my new serger, I was ready to get going on the Renfrew. My top went together in about half the time I was used to. There were no tension or other stitching issues. AND... My top is more comfortable to wear! This I was not expecting but it only makes sense. The stitches are made to give and stretch, allowing for a more flexible, comfortable top. I really don't know what I was waiting for other than a little thing called money... lol!

 

~Jenny

Colette Laurel in Ponte Floral

Long time, no see! For those of you who missed the first story, or want an update... I've been scarce lately because I'm in graduate school to become a nurse practitioner. I still work full-time as a nurse, and have two small children. Studying means late nights, after the kids go to sleep. I'm about half way done with my program- a little over a year left to go.  I haven't been able to sew anywhere near as much as I want to. I've started to designate one night a week to sewing so hopefully I can be a little more productive now. And blogging the projects is a production as well. Right now the kids are parked in front of the tv while I ignore their demands distracted.

 

 

I first made the Colette Laurel in an underlined black eyelet. Still one of my favorites! I love the easy shape and always get compliments whenever I wear it.

 

 

I decided to make a second one in a floral ponte knit. I got this one through Girl Charlee Fabrics. Looks like this print is sold out but they have other lovely options.

 

I won't write a full review, just click back to my first one. For this version, I added an inch or so to the length. I also omitted the back zipper (only after sewing half of it in and then realizing I didn't need a zipper with the knit-doh!).

 

 

I really like how this version came out. It's perfect in the cooler months with boots and tights. I can wear it in Spring/Summer with sandals. And I don't think I'm done with this pattern yet! It's so classic, easy to wear, and can be done in many different fabrics.

 

~Jenny

Mini-Me's

 

 

I had enough fabric left over from each of my Renfrews to make my kids their own tees too.

 

 

 

Logan's tee is made using the Vintage V-neck pattern from Blank Slate Patterns. These are pdf patterns for boys and girls. There aren't a lot of cool little boy patterns available buy Blank Slate has a good selection. I made a 4T based on his measurements. There isn't a lot of room for growth so I will go up a size the next time.

 

 

 

Next up is the baby's tee. She just turned 1 year old and is about 20 pounds. I used Simplicity 1566. This is a good pattern for basic separates- tops, pants, jackets, vest, and jumper. I made a size large (18 months). Again, there's not a ton of room for growing. This was also super easy. The most time consuming (and annoying) part was hand sewing snaps on each shoulder seam. These are necessary though so that the top can fit over baby's head.

 

Both tees came together quickly and they were a great way to use up the leftover fabric.

 

~Jenny

A Pair of Renfrews

These are my third and fourth versions of the Sewaholic Renfrew pattern. My wardrobe is lacking in casual tops that are suitable for Fall/Winter. The Renfrew top is perfect for filling in that gap.

 

 

 

I made the long sleeve version with the V-neck (my favorite neckline). My original review is here. I've lost some weight since then so I went down one size. I left the length as is.

 

They went together quickly and easily, each taking less than two hours on a conventional machine.

 

 

 

Aren't the prints cool? They were both from Girl Charlee Fabrics. The fox print can be found here, and the bird print can be found here. They are each available in other color ways as well.

 

What basics will you be adding to your wardrobe for the cooler weather?

 

~Jenny

Summer's Last Hurrah: Bombshell Swimsuit

A couple of weeks ago we had the pleasure of going to Panama City, Florida for our annual visit to my in-laws. It was hot and humid, and daily swimming was a must.

 

 

What more can I say about the Bombshell Swimsuit pattern from Closet Case Files? It is well-drafted, easy to sew, and looks great on a variety of body types.

 

I used a matte black nylon-spandex from Spandex World. I also purchased a black swimsuit lining from them. I got the bra cups on Etsy.

 

 

 

I didn't make any changes to the fit or construction. And, as I am one of the last members of the online sewing community to sew this, I will let you refer to the multitude of reviews from others who have gone before me.

/

 

 

When we arrived back to New Mexico, the weather was already beginning to change. Fall is in the air and I am now planning my cool weather sewing plan.

 

~Jenny



Fehr Trade XYT Top

No glamour shots here- you are in for some dirty and sweaty action shots today!

 

I consider myself a very amateur runner. Before completing the Couch-to-5k training program, I couldn't even run one minute without huffing and puffing. Now I can do a 5K!

 

For this year's first 5K, I needed a new top of course. And because I'm fasting, I had to make one.

 

I opted for the Fehr Trade XYT Workout Top. Check out this site for some great workout wear patterns.

 

I made the 'X' style. I love the back with the little peek-a-boo... too cute!

 

 

I used a nylon spandex from Spandex World with a "dia de los muertos", or "Day of the Dead" print... which is very popular in this neck of the woods. I had to wonder what the UPS man thought of my large package with "Spandex World" printed all over it.

 

The top went together very quickly on a conventional machine. I used a long, narrow zigzag stitch for the vertical seams. For the neckline, arm, and hem, I used a decorative serpentine stitch. It looks better than a zigzag on the outside but still allows the fabric to stretch without popping seams. I attempted to use my double needle but kept ending up with skipped stitches.

 

This was during the first mile- still smiling!

 

I originally was going to sew in the hidden bra. I used power-mesh and tested the stretch as instructed. I got to a point in the sewing where I could do a test fitting and eek! That hidden bra was so tight, I couldn't get the top over my shoulders. So I took it out.

 

I don't know that you can tell because of the dark print, but I ended up sewing a band to the bottom of the shirt to give it a bit more length. I felt like the top was riding up on me at it's original length. The band added about 2 inches and it is much more comfortable on me.

 

A high-five from my buddy at the finish line!

 

I am very pleased with how this came out and plan to make more. Two ladies came up to me after the run and told me how cute my top was!

 

~Jenny

Easter Ginger

Yep, I've turned into one of those moms. You know- the kind who match their outfits with their daughter's. At least it's only on special occasions.

For myself, I made the Colette Ginger skirt. This is a great pattern for a basic, A-line skirt. It went together super quickly. I like the high waist style. It is flattering and has a bit of a vintage vibe.

I used a cotton stretch sateen print from Gorgeous Fabrics. It's been in my stash for a while until I could figure out what to do with it. I originally intended on making a dress with it. I love the colors and large floral print. However, I thought it would be a bit overwhelming on me as a dress so I opted for a skirt. I think it turned out nicely.

One word of caution. I fell in-between sizes on the size chart so I opted for the larger of the two. I still had to let out the waist seam allowances by 1/4 inch on each side- 1 inch all the way around.

I am really happy with this skirt and received lots of compliments the first time I wore it. This is another one I could see making up in several prints for lots of options.

For the baby, I used Simplicity 3854 to make her dress from the same fabric. For such a little dress it was actually quite fussy! The instructions would have you finish the neckline and sleeves with bias tape. Despite the bias, I couldn't get the tape to stretch enough to lay flat after stitching. So after fighting with it, I ended up cutting a lining for the bodice and finishing it that way. I then preceded to sew the lining in incorrectly and having to rip it out- at least that one was my fault.

In the end, it did come out really cute. I love the poofy skirt! And, I made her the matching headband!

 

 ~Jenny