A new pattern release! Sinclair Lulu

I was one of the lucky gals to test this awesome pattern from Oxana Sinclair.  It's called the Lulu and it is a top, shorts/pants, or romper.  

Lulu pattern

Here's my version.  I made these as separates.  I remember the 80s/90s where you had to get undressed to use the bathroom if you wore a romper.  Ain't making that mistake again for work clothes!  

This fabric is just amazing!  It is the double brushed poly from SlyFox Fabrics.  It is so incredibly soft!  Plus, that color!!! 

Putting this together was fast!  It doesn't look like a fast pattern though, does it?

This has some very nice details such as the cross-over front, banded bottom, pleats at the neckline, side seam pockets.  

The pleated neckline is constructed so brilliantly! I also love the options of short, long, or no sleeves. I feel like you get your moneys worth with Sinclair patterns! 

Just a parting shot to show you that if you tack the neckline, you won't give anyone a show! 

This pattern is on sale for a bit so click on the link at the beginning of this post!

Happy sewing!

Sue 

Rebecca Page Sara Sweater

So I tested another pattern for Rebecca Page.  This is the Sara Sweater.  Here's a link to images of the pattern: 

https://rebecca-page.com/product/sara-sweater/

I was so drawn to the line drawing of this.  How cute is it?  

I used a beautiful sweater knit from Telio.  I purchase Telio from Fabricdotcom.  Wow, do I love this brand.  

For the placket, I used a woven cotton fabric for the sweater portion.  Sorry, I should have taken photos of that fabric. For the neckband, it is only the sweater fabric.

This fabric just lays so beautifully. 

With this view, you can get a glimpse of the placket fabric I used.  The placket is non-functional as I decided not to make actual button holes.

I do love the shape of this sweater.  

This sweater was designed as very over-sized so I graded down almost 2 sizes.  Can you imagine how over large this would have been?  

Buttons were from my stash and are silver but lightweight metal.  

Thanks for reading!  

Sue 

Rebecca page blouse and skirt

For this post, I have two garments to show you!  I found this beautiful coral colored stretch shirting from Fabric Mart and after deciding I must sew with more color once in a while, I snatched it up. 

It is so beautiful to work with!  I love FMs selection of designer fabrics.  They are such nice quality. 

I chose these two patterns, both from Rebecca Page. 

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-tie-neck-blouse-pattern/

 

I like the ultra feminine designs of both these garments and the ties on both! 

For the skirt, I found this so pretty metallic suiting and knew it would make a great something.  I finally decided on this cute skirt design.  I ended up lining the skirt with some leftovers from my stash.  It worked beautifully. 

I love lining skirts.  They look so much smoother when worn.  

See how nicely the shirting gathered?

The waist tie is fun.

I am pretty happy with how this turned out!

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

Sinclar: Lauren Top

So, I made another Sinclair pattern.  Is anyone surprised?  This one is the Lauren Top.  How could I not make this?  Here's the pattern photo: 

I love tops that drape yet have a modest neckline, so this was a no-brainer for me.  

It was such a nice day that I had to go outdoors for photos. That's pretty rare this time of year where I live.

This top requires a super drapey fabric.  I think this was a rayon-lycra blend and it works for this top. It was purchased from Fabric Mart.

See what I mean about requiring drape?  From this side view, you can totally see half of the pleats in the design.  

I love this blushy-pink/rose color. This is a relatively easy sew.  Just line up the pleats, baste them and you are half way done!  

There is also a dress and sleeveless version of this, so in the next few months, guess what I'll be making?

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

A new pattern--Sinclair Journey zip hoodie!

Hi all,

I was one of the lucky ones able to test a pattern for Sinclair Patterns.  It is the Journey Zip Hoodie.  

And, here is a link to the pattern: https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/journey-zip-up-knit-raglan-hoodie-with-different-pocket-styles-pdf-sewing-pattern/?goal=0_eef9a0e737-bc33274c7c-129781988&mc_cid=bc33274c7c&mc_eid=0d2e69e1f9

I wasn't one of the lucky ones to be featured on the website, but I am still really pleased with how mine turned out.  

This pattern, from cut out to final seam will take you about 4 to 5 hours. You'll need to use mid-weight knits.

My fabrics were from Sly Fox.  If you've never heard of them, I am quite smitten with their selection and quality.  I've yet to be disappointed. Here's a link if you are interested: https://slyfoxfabrics.com/

I used their french terry for this hoodie. 

The only part that may give you a few head-scratching moments is the zipper insertion.  I simplified this by basting the zip in, then attaching the facing and stitching down the whole business at once.  If you decide to purchase the pattern and make this up, you'll get what I mean.

For Sinclair patterns, I appreciate that the pattern has options.  This has hoodie or collar and different pocket choices.  Truly you can create different looks for this garment. Also, it comes in petite, regular, or tall sizes.  I use the tall and make almost zero alterations. 

I am really happy with my hoodie.

If you try this pattern, please let me know as I 'd like to know about your experience.

Thanks for reading!

Sue 

Another Harper Cardigan by Sinclair Patterns

I have been on a roll of Indy patterns with good reason: the Indy designers take time to fit, test, and retest their patterns before publication.  I just love that by those designers!  

This is for the Harper Cardigan by Sinclair Patterns.  Did I mention this is a FREE pattern?  For those of you wary to purchase the Blackwood, here is your chance to get one that is equally as awesome and you just can't beat the price.  

Here's the pattern image: 

And, a link to the pattern: https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/harper-classic-knit-cardigan-and-duster-for-women-pdf-sewing-pattern/

What I love about Sinclair patterns is that the come in TALL sizes, or for ladies over 5'6".  There are also petite and regular sizing options.  

Gosh, I love this fabric!  How fun is this?  Dress it up or down.

This is the first long length I have made from this pattern. 

The back really lets you see how fun this fabric is!

It's mine!

I've made this cardigan numerous times and each time has been a treat.  You can use a variety of fabrics, make a variety of lengths such as duster, long, or classic and you can also make long, 3/4, or short sleeves.  Variety, is all included with this pattern.  

For this version, I used a camo fabric from Telio.  I think if you've read some of my posts (thank you, BTW) you'll know that I have a thing for Telio.  Quality and reasonable price.  Bam!  No wonder I love it so much!  

I made the longer version with long sleeves.  I had just enough fabric to complete this feat, but honestly, it was a close call!  What I keep forgetting is that the neckband or front band needs 2 cuts on the fold, not just one.  :)  

Since my fabric was a ribbed sweater knit, I did use some precautions such as SewkeysE 1/2" tape for almost all the raw edges: pockets, front band, and hemline.  I just love this stuff!  I did use a straight basting stitch on my machine before serging the edges.  It just makes me feel better about my finished garment.  

What more can you ask for?  A FREE pattern that's well drafted, fits a variety of sizes, and gives you a great result!

Thanks for reading!

Sue  

A New Winter Coat, Butterick 5685

Hi all,

I made a new coat because where I live, it's cold and can be cold for a long time--like 5 or so months.  Ridiculous, right?  So, to make it less brutal, I make winter coats so I have choices when I put on a coat to brave the cold.  

I finally used the beautiful wool/cashmere blend from Mood that I purchased about 2 years ago. 

I was pretty adamant I needed to use a somewhat classic design so this coat is 'in style' for years to come.

When I fit this to me, I intentionally made the shoulders just a bit wider in the back to accommodate being able to bend, lift, carry, twist, and drive a car if needed.  

I've had this pattern forever.  Here it is for you to see: 

I'd say mine fits just like the line drawing shows.

I knew I wanted to use a fun lining and this fabric is from Fabric.com.  It's a Telio brand rayon and it is just as luscious as the wool/cashmere!

Why make a coat with a boring lining?  Am I right? 

Buttons are from my stash.  

Thanks for reading!

I hope you are enjoying the weather where ever you live.  If you have a favorite cold weather coat pattern, would you please share?  I am always looking for coat patterns that are unique, classic, or just fun.

Sue