A new coat! Butterick 6423

This coat pattern is getting a lot of attention....look at how cute it is!  This is Butterick 6423

I love everything about it.  Here is the description from the back of the pattern envelope: Very loose-fitting lined coat has front shaped princess seam with pocket, curved gusset under arm, lower back seam with pleat.

I choose to highlight some of the design elements, especially the shaped front seam that extends into a pocket!  How clever!  Actually, that is my favorite detail....

I used a heavy wool coating I've had in my stash for quite some time, years actually!  This past Christmas, my two beautiful daughters challenged me to actually sew from my stash--now that's a novel concept, huh?  We agreed to not purchase a single thing in order to complete this challenge--which lasts the entire month of January.  While I am happy with many of the makes I've made, I know to make a dent in my stash, I have to extend this...at least until March!  Do you think I might have a bit of a problem?  I am however very happy that I finally sewed up this fabric.  And, I made a very colorful lining with a floral 100% silk that I've also had for several years.  I think this coat is a match made in heaven for fabrics!  

Construction of this coat is straight forward.  My only deviation from the instructions was when I inserted the leather piping I used...yes, this was also from my stash!  I decided to sew together the piping, insert the piping on the princess seam, and then proceed with the directions.  If I was a brand newbie, I would wait before trying this coat, despite the 'easy' rating.  There is a lining to insert, inseam pockets, lots of hand sewing, etc.  Make sure you have a bit of experience before you try this pattern.  It isn't difficult, but it does require a bit of precision and there are a lot of steps.

Fitting this coat is a bit of a challenge, and I could have done better...I may end up taking it apart a bit...or I may end up just enjoying the easy fit.

I made a sloping shoulder adjustment along with a swayback adjustment and that's it.  I looked at the finished measurements for the bust area and decided it should fit fine and it does.  

With this big old collar, I highly recommend under-stitching it all the way around until you get to where the collar roll stops.  Since my wool is so very heavy, I decided to topstitch 3/8" from the edge. 

This was a fun coat to make, and I received some nice compliments today about it.  Isn't it great when someone comments on your me-made makes?  

Thanks for reading!

I love your comments....

Happy sewing!

Sue

Another Nina Cardigan!

I love this cardigan.  It is a bit different yet it fits really nicely in the torso.  The waterfall neck edge isn't too much or too little...it is just exaggerated enough... make sense?  

Do you have any patterns that you adore the shape of?  This is one of mine yet if your search my makes of it, this is only the second.  I need to get working on this!  I pull it out over and over again yet put it back...it isn't that it is out of sight, out of mind...it's on my mind!  I just need to commit to it more often!  

I made this from a beautiful sweater knit I purchased from Emma One Sock.  Even though it is wool, it is soft, cozy, and very comfortable.  Plus, it sewed like a dream...how is that for a glowing endorsement?  

This is so easy to put together.  It is well-drafted as every StyleArc pattern I've made is.  Honestly, if you had zero distractions you could put this together in less than two hours.  Especially if you overlocked the edges at the hemlines like the pattern suggests. 

 I decided to use SewEyekeys 1/2" knit staytape on the hemlines, turned the edges and used a stretch stitch on the hemlines.  I'd show you but they are almost impossible to see with a matching thread and a somewhat marbled fabric.  

I love this pattern, I love the fabric, and I love it how it turned out.  I will wear this with the coordinating dress fabric and with other garments in my closet.  

Thanks for reading!!!!

Sue 

Simplicity 1537 am amazing fit dress :)

I am working on sewing up my precious fabrics from my stash.  Actually, I am working on sewing up any of the fabrics from my stash...it is out of control and I am trying to get it under control.  Do any of you have my problem?  Both of my daughters shamed me at Christmas time--and it was well deserved...my once very nice sewing room is a disaster.  I needed a challenge and I needed it now.  No more fabric, notion, or pattern purchases for the month of January.  I have actually extended this deadline to the end of February and perhaps March....we'll see....I am enjoying the challenge as I am somewhat competitive by nature!

So onto why you are here!  This lovely fabric is a wool from Emma One Sock purchase.  And, I've had it for at least a year....Why, Why, WHY!!!! did I wait so....long....to sew it up!!!

I used a pattern that has been in my stash for quite some time as I wanted a classic look for this dress.  I also chose this pattern to match the fabric just to hope for a perfect match.  Here is the pattern I used: 

 

  

What I love about these amazing fit patterns is that they have separate cup sizes.  They also let you determine if you are a slim, average, or curvy fit and let you cut the bottom half appropriately.  You can truly get an amazing fit if you take the time to fit the pattern.  :)  

I really like the styling of this with the dropped waistline, and the variety of sleeve and hemline lengths.  At first, I made the length of version B with the sleeve length of C.  I looked matronly.  I immediately took the sleeves off and sewed the short sleeves.  Thank goodness I had enough fabric to do this!  

I opted not to line it as it fit and hung beautifully, if it is okay to say so.  This is a wool from Emma One Sock.  Did I already mention that?  This sews up beautifully and when I have my stash to a reasonable level then I am totally going to purchase more of this in other colors!  

I hand-hemmed the sleeves and lower edges.  I inserted an invisible zipper.  Other than that, my modifications were using the c-cup and average waist and hip line.  I also made a sloping shoulder adjustment.  That's it!  

I love this pattern and plan on using it again!  

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

Another pair of Georgies!

Here is another review of a favorite pattern I simply can't resist.  Maybe I have a problem?

These are the Georgie Stretch Jeans by StyleArc.  StyleArc has to be my favorite Indy pattern company. These 'jeans' have great details!  A faux fly and front pockets, back pockets, back yoke, and a waistband.  I've made these numerous times and I love every pair I've made! 


I used a stretch bengaline I purchased from Style Arc's site.  This is nice fabric--I purchased it in several colors.  It washes and dries well and it takes a warmish press well.  It you get it out of the dryer soon enough, you don't need to iron them! 

If you do decide to purchase some of this fabric, you'll need to cut it on the cross grain as these jeans need the maximum stretch to go around the body--just what you'd expect from a stretch jean!  With this fabric, it is about 60" wide, so you'll be able to easily get these cut out from cutting on the cross-grain. 

I made just two minor alterations to the pattern:  I added 1/4" to the width of the waistband (folding it over it makes a total of 1/2") and added 1" to the length.  I like the result and hope I remember this for the next time I make them!

These are super comfortable pants, they are in a color I really love and I think the fit is fabulous!  The elastic in the waistband is totally hidden--no one needs to know you're wearing elastic waist pants! 

What more can you want from pants you make?

Thanks for reading!
Sue

Another Helene Cardigan

Yes, I am into repeating patterns lately.  I am working hard on reducing my out-of-control stash and the best way for me to do that is pull out fabrics that I had a plan for when I purchased them--sometimes based on a previous pattern I made and then dive in and sew them up.  That's my MO lately and darn if it isn't working!

So, here is one of my latest favs....the Helene cardi by Jalie.  Have you made this yet?  It is a fun, fast, and stylish make.  What more can you ask for?  Here is an image of the pattern:

Look how darling that is!  Those pockets!  The length!  Perfection! 

I've had this wool sweater knit in my stash for a while.  It is warm, stretchy, and feels soft on your skin.  I am really into this color lately.  It satisfies my need for a darker color in the winter but it is more exciting than black or gray.  I really should branch out a bit more!  :) 

Would you look at those pockets!  They are the perfect depth, they are at the right place, and they are just cute.  Can you tell I like the construction of these?  Just look at the inside and how clever this is! 

I made so few adjustments to this pattern: Sloping Shoulders is it.  When there is a seam at the lower back, or about the waistline, I really don't need a swayback adjustment.  I used Seweyekeys 1/2" fusible stay tape on the edges to hem everything.  That stuff is the cat's meow.  :) 

Isn't this just the perfect length?  

I so love everything about this pattern.  Can you tell?

So, I love this.  It is warm, it isn't black, and it fits great.  What are waiting for if you've never sewn a Jalie pattern?  Just do it!  

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

Sewing some separates!

For this month's Fabric Mart post, I knew I wanted to use this gorgeous cobalt and black viscose and mohair woven to make something.... the question was what to do!  It is too cold where I live to make a dress that doesn't need some sort of jacket, sweater, etc., so I also ordered this beautiful super wash wool jersey in deep black because in the Northern Plains, you need layers people!  Layers! 

Sorry about the indoor photos.  Like most of the nation, when I took these photos, we were in a deep freeze and the air temp just barely made it above zero degrees Fahrenheit.  I love and appreciate the quality of outdoor photos but I have standards, that is not freezing!    

That fun purple print is a sweater knit from my stash that I also purchased from FM quite some time ago.  The colors in it are just perfect with the cobalt and black.  Plus, I really to add some additional color in my life. 

All three fabrics sewed up dreamily.  Is that a word? 

Even though all three were awesome, the skirt is my favorite fabric.  I've never used a fabric with mohair in it and it just sewed and pressed beautifully.  This skirt will be a frequent rotation in my closet.

Here is a link to the McCall's pattern I used: Skirt pattern.  This is a vintage reproduction and I love the shape and lines of those patterns.  Dressing decades ago required style, am I right?

Of course I lined this skirt and since this is a dark fabric, I decided to have some fun with a big pop of color!

I am not sure what I was doing there, but at least you can see the vibrant lining I used!  The lining is also from FM and it is one of my favorite ranges of color--coralish, reddish, orangish.  So pretty!

I like having the option to wear the long black cardigan with the skirt and top and also the necessity as it's been pretty darn cold.  Just so you know, being middle aged, I am rarely cold these days, so if I say it's been cold, then believe me!

I did mention to the hubby that I sort of felt like a librarian--no offence to any of you that may be a librarian, this is just very conservative.

I also wanted to be able to wear the cardi and sweater with other things, like jeans!  

This super wash wool is just light, warm, and wonderful to work with!

It drapes just beautifully!  To stabilize the hems, I used a notion that you can purchase on FM's site.  SeweyeKeys is amazing and works magic!  If you've never used it before, try it.   It is fusible stabilizer to use on knit garments.  You press it on, turn and sew.  I've tried other brands you can purchase at locations such as JoAnns.  They are nearly as good as SeweyeKeys. 

If you are wondering, here are the patterns I used for the cardi and the top.  

Top: Jalie dolman top

Cardigan: McCall's 7476 cardigan

On to the fabric--

Here is a close up of the skirt fabric and lining.  Dark colors are really hard to photograph.  

Here is another try at the skirt fabric.  

Here is a closer look at the sweater knit.  It feels like it has some wool in it and it again sewed up beautifully.

Here is a closer look at the cardigan made from the wool knit.  I decided to use a decorative stitch on the pocket edges.  

I enjoyed making these separates that I will wear together and apart.  

Thanks for reading and I love reading your comments!  

Thanks for stopping by!

Sue

Another Simplicity 2054 in EOS sweater knit

Do you have a TNT pattern?  For me, one of my all time favs is Simplicity 2054.  

This dress is so simple, yet so stylish.  Am I right?  There is something about the length and overall fit that is so intriguing to me.  Plus, I feel like I've nailed the fit for both me and my daughter so it is in heavy rotation.

I made a FBA, sloping shoulder adjustment and swayback adjustment.

I always manage to move in several photos when I use the timer.

Sorry about the indoor photos but by the time I get home from work, it's dark.

This pretty fabric is from Emma One Sock.  It is from my stash and since I am working on whittling it down to a manageable level, I thought this simple dress would show off this pretty print.  Plus it is warm and comfortable to wear.  

Thanks for reading!  I hope you have some great garments in mind for your new year's sewing projects!

Sue 

A new year, time for new perspectives, right?

This is the time a year when we reflect on the past year and think about what we would like to differently for next year, am I right? 




For me, my stash is seriously out of control. 



I have a very nice sewing space that my kids helped me put together.  The carpet was replaced with a faux wood floor, there is additional lighting, double L-shaped computer desks to host my four sewing machines, a folding chamois-covered quilt planning wall, and lots of storage.  I even have very wide island in my sewing room for cutting, piecing, and ironing--should I desire to do so as I covered it with fabric and padding to make it multi-purpose.  So, what is the problem?  I have too much fabric.



Were I to measure it, this is undoubtedly what would show! 


Don't laugh--I will only showing one photo of my sewing room that will hopefully represent the problem.  My stash 'overfloweth' into the rest of the space and even other parts of my home--just ask my husband.  In fact, it is such a problem that my oldest daughter, who lives in Baton Rouge, entered and said something to the effect of, "Mom, you've got a problem and it isn't a lack of space...."  Ouch.  But deep down, I knew it.  She just put into words what was in my heart and mind and she also challenged me.  You see, she sews herself and she also knits.  She knows all about 'needing' the necessary supplies so you don't have to go somewhere and get additional materials to create a project.  She also understands creativity and how sometimes the best projects are those that you need to think about, be creative with on design or material usage as she designs her own knitting patterns and has numerous publications in a variety of formats including magazines, pdfs from her website, and such.   As I was crafting a rebuttal, I knew she was right.  At that moment we challenged each other to use only from our stash for the next month-- or the month of January and as I contemplated this challenge, I wondered if I could truly do it.  Her motives are to inspire more creativity as she feels she is lacking.   My motives are purely to find what I have in my stash (especially those treasures that are hidden) and use it to make some new additions to my wardrobe. 

So while DD1 wants me to not purchase patterns, notions, or fabrics for a month, I have decided to challenge myself for three months.  As I have tried to clean up my space in the last week, I have found at least a few duplicate purchases of patterns (I my REALLY) like those if I purchased them twice! and so many treasures of fabric that I would consider somewhat precious.  Those precious fabrics must become wardrobe items.  Right? 

If I had to stretch myself (other than getting my stash to a manageable level) my next goals for the new year would be the following:
1.  Brush up on my tailoring skills.  I've made several more tailored items this past year but it has been a l-o-n-g time since I've pad stitched a collar and lapel and I'd really like to do it so I dust off the skills I used to have long ago.
2.  I have joined the RTW fast--I've wanted to do this for years and finally took the plunge!  Yay!  Now, I just need to resist the urge to purchase RTW. 
3.  Make undergarments/lingerie.  I have so many patterns for these items and now that I have 'taken' some Craftsy classes, I feel ready.  It is time, just do it!
4.  Sew for pleasure and stress relief.  Sometimes I create just to create, but I want to spend more time enjoying the process. 

What image(s) led my daughter saw to challenge me?  While I won't show them all, I will show you one: 

While pictures can only say so much, trust me that the rest of my sewing room was just as terrifically bad.  It looks better now, just seven days after her departure.  And, I have had a great time 'shopping' my stash.  I will get my new makes posted soon!

And I must give DD2 props.  She loves to quilt and has made some incredible designs from my cast-offs.  While I am a part-time quilter, she is a full-time one and her designs are just gorgeous.  I really need to look at my scraps as treasures, worthy of a design, if I would just take the time to look more carefully--just like she does. 

Until later, Happy New Year, and Happy Sewing! 

What are your plans?  Do tell!
Sue :)   

McCall's 6963--a fast and fun make!

Need a fast make that isn't a plain tee?  Here is one to consider: 

I love how all the fitting adjustments you could ever want are listed on the pattern tissue.  All you have to do is follow the instructions and you end up with something you like and that fits you well. 

Sorry about the indoor photos but it was unbelievably cold today.

The knit is from JoAnns.  I purchased it because I had a 50% off coupon.  It washed and dried really well.  We will see if it holds up to more than a few washes.  

I like everything about this top.  The fit isn't quite as tight as the models but I wanted this to have some breathing room, if you know what I mean.  

If you are needing a fast make, this is for you!  I made version D with the higher neckline.  Use a drapey fabric so the neckline hangs properly.  

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

Another Vogue 9247..this time with fringe!

I love this pattern.  This is my 2nd go with it and I love it just as much as I did making the first version.  How is that for a glowing endorsement?  

This time, I made view F, the longest view and added the self-fringe.  I honestly thought the fringe would take several hours to create, but with a rotary cutter and a see-through ruler it was short work--about 20 minutes or less, as I did take a break.

Here is just a moment for a PSA, I purchased a titanium blade for my Olfa rotary cutter, and honestly, it is the only blade I will ever purchase again.  It is that good!

Didn't the fringe turn out great?

This fabric, a faux suede from Fabric Mart, is hard to photograph.  It is more of a rich brown that olive green as it looks in the photo.  Oh, and sorry for the indoor photos but the actual temp was below zero (F).  We've been in the midst of a terrible cold spell.  I honestly don't know how Canadians do it!

This is a soft, fluid, and drapey fabric.  It also has and embossed floral and paisley pattern on it that is just barely visible in the photos. 

I was a tad worried about the length of this but not that it is finished, I am quite smitten with it.

I waited to attach the pockets until it was finished so I could get the location just at the right spot.

The brown trim that I attached just above the fringe, was from my stash.  You see, my daughter from Baton Rouge challenged me to actually use my stash and make zero purchases for fabric, pattern, and supplies for an entire month.  This just might kill me, but I am going to give it a go!

Wow, do I think this jacket is fun!

Thanks for reading!  Happy New Year!

Sue