tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84710853942389103522024-03-12T21:10:06.382-04:00Stuff I Make . . .Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.comBlogger164125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-51620091343123359312016-04-11T08:38:00.001-04:002016-04-11T08:38:31.167-04:00Finlayson in Indigo Interlock<div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21.3px;">
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
I rarely sew for my husband. Despite that, he's always been supportive of my hobby (obsession?), never commenting on how much I spend on material and even scouting out fabric shops for me to peruse when we go on family trips. Yep, he's a keeper! So when <a href="http://www.loiseaufabrics.com/interlocks/">this fabric</a> arrived and it wasn't exactly the colour I was expecting but happened to be the colour of his favourite hockey team, I knew what to do with it. (side note: you can now get a <a href="http://www.loiseaufabrics.com/interlock-solids-swatch-card/">swatch card</a> for this fabric line, which is great because it's often hard to get a true sense of colour from a photo). </div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
So I told him I was making him a sweater and consulted him on pattern choice. Well, kind of -- the <a href="http://threadtheory.ca/products/finlayson-sweater" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 21.3px;" target="_blank">Finlayson </a>from <a href="http://threadtheory.ca/" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 21.3px;" target="_blank">Thread Theory</a> is the only mens sweater pattern I own so I asked him if he would be okay with that style. Thankfully he said yes! </div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br style="line-height: 21.3px;" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLmCjlLptgu71RYWA844_eFKBPubG2rJK8Bpq_mLVcDWe-H8xeqVlby06wLsgdeg9xGbOP_ebrDq6Rh5fvmuC4cReNjWIhDz1hqAKutGvzfEHyx4muhTUj5jlNVqnmSTODkNbwJQymgA/s1600/2016-04-04_22%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLmCjlLptgu71RYWA844_eFKBPubG2rJK8Bpq_mLVcDWe-H8xeqVlby06wLsgdeg9xGbOP_ebrDq6Rh5fvmuC4cReNjWIhDz1hqAKutGvzfEHyx4muhTUj5jlNVqnmSTODkNbwJQymgA/s640/2016-04-04_22%25282%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfM9xFW5Qj5QJpsnsSW5PgKftfqM7qghaLJVp2C9uGgyRIr3Jupl3EX9WXNxZBjTQz86varpSxD7PC897iTgXXzU1ASfLxfgjz74-V_PSHkLc00COS0-U7kZ8bwpsdehu88NjSPudNVPU/s1600/2016-04-04_25%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfM9xFW5Qj5QJpsnsSW5PgKftfqM7qghaLJVp2C9uGgyRIr3Jupl3EX9WXNxZBjTQz86varpSxD7PC897iTgXXzU1ASfLxfgjz74-V_PSHkLc00COS0-U7kZ8bwpsdehu88NjSPudNVPU/s640/2016-04-04_25%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_c3jIvVXfq5r-t0zkRJ9SFRDGJ_sLqiJuNT6tcQrevzMr5Uboz2hv_jrWLm6bAxAYH9CW3vRryZMtV4Bb6BRVCCkYMgafbaFdMIQgOQ81z5g3FFtV0ioomborR89VQvaa8XhK_rnHG1Q/s1600/2016-04-04_28%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_c3jIvVXfq5r-t0zkRJ9SFRDGJ_sLqiJuNT6tcQrevzMr5Uboz2hv_jrWLm6bAxAYH9CW3vRryZMtV4Bb6BRVCCkYMgafbaFdMIQgOQ81z5g3FFtV0ioomborR89VQvaa8XhK_rnHG1Q/s640/2016-04-04_28%25281%2529.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKhOHZIDP1cLcmNUmPWvxioVDW4EhJXGSlgjP9xVRIDym757u2TaE8xeEVvXJQRM7kTLJ5euTepcR58pL10mos3WT2wguJYFfhDU5M5vRLRZ7z3JgP5gWPtY4isNcmZMt2Yj6BULYQIo/s1600/2016-04-07_02%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPKhOHZIDP1cLcmNUmPWvxioVDW4EhJXGSlgjP9xVRIDym757u2TaE8xeEVvXJQRM7kTLJ5euTepcR58pL10mos3WT2wguJYFfhDU5M5vRLRZ7z3JgP5gWPtY4isNcmZMt2Yj6BULYQIo/s640/2016-04-07_02%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
This fabric really is lovely -- very soft and a perfect weight, not too thick but definitely not flimsy. It's easy to work with, too, with since it doesn't curl or shift like some knit fabrics. Being able to get good quality <a href="http://www.loiseaufabrics.com/indigo-ribknit/" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 21.3px;" target="_blank">coordinating ribbing</a> is also fantastic. I used the ribbing for the cuffs and waistband and it matches perfectly. </div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHya-J78kS1P8r4F2iTeNOE4nasIcHiolYCsaaGpBiS-HmLYuw3vdrN8CRGhubbVQtuw9tyaDkvHA1fi0vgosTl7PU35RMRymSldTw2wFTAe9PDgchZ_xtyOI_bvsizdaSSpdUBg01PfY/s1600/2016-04-07_08%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHya-J78kS1P8r4F2iTeNOE4nasIcHiolYCsaaGpBiS-HmLYuw3vdrN8CRGhubbVQtuw9tyaDkvHA1fi0vgosTl7PU35RMRymSldTw2wFTAe9PDgchZ_xtyOI_bvsizdaSSpdUBg01PfY/s640/2016-04-07_08%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.3px;">And I can attest to the durabilty of the interlock -- I ordered an extra metre because I knew I wanted to make something adult-sized so when I was cutting out the sweater I was thinking about what I could do with the "scraps". They ended up being big enough to make a pair of shorts (</span><a href="https://jalie.com/jalie3351-swim-shorts-pattern" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 21.3px;" target="_blank">Jalie 3351</a><span style="line-height: 21.3px;">) for me so I sewed those up right away. I've been wearing and washing them at least once a week since then and the fabric has held up well -- no pilling or stretching. They look just as good as when I made them back in February! </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.3px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.3px;">Of course I really should have made the sweater first because it took me awhile to get back to it. I don't think my husband quite believed that I actually would finish but he's happy that I did! </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br style="line-height: 21.3px;" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisOdqojMfbivvIFI8r0DvzA1CUc8sH1aSb6SdhMGJlTRtTXX93h5SoXac72siK-2xefobPGFv_Y76Y831CbJ4ocLhjtDKh_NIx8GgBxVcHaVhQXH8i-v7OhJd3Lap0zcpnIBZvGnlU6Yg/s1600/2016-02-22_02%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisOdqojMfbivvIFI8r0DvzA1CUc8sH1aSb6SdhMGJlTRtTXX93h5SoXac72siK-2xefobPGFv_Y76Y831CbJ4ocLhjtDKh_NIx8GgBxVcHaVhQXH8i-v7OhJd3Lap0zcpnIBZvGnlU6Yg/s640/2016-02-22_02%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 21.3px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.3px;">As I was taking pictures, I realized that both of these are totally Canadian projects -- the fabric is manufactured and produced in Canada and sold by a Canadian retailer, both the patterns are by Canadian designers and they were sewn up by a Canadian. Pretty good, eh? </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Patterns: Thread Theory Finlayson Sweater, Jalie Swim Shorts (both used before)</div>
<div>
Fabric: Interlock from l'oiseau </div>
<div>
I received 1 metre in exchange for a blog post, I purchase the 2nd metre + the coordinating ribbing ~$24</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-76838428755332078982016-04-04T09:51:00.000-04:002016-04-04T09:52:41.701-04:00Blaverry GracieK. has a massive wardrobe of clothes and definitely doesn't <i>need</i> anything new. She's so enthusiastic and appreciative whenever I do make her something that I get a lot of joy from making her new things, though :). And I knew she would love the <a href="http://blaverry.com/products/gracie">Gracie dress by Blaverry</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-tLm2re91cOcV-HmA1Qy-yp6RKBPVddVek9nb1Xi5I8QUlJk-LSAfgs5baGbzl7kUb_-yvyYzc2uYlYJ2Zu9wTIvF80vjn3LcLe0uS-aYXuMHeQOdAI6oTemLLLiR8yjexKrpho_bQIA/s1600/2016-04-02_07%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-tLm2re91cOcV-HmA1Qy-yp6RKBPVddVek9nb1Xi5I8QUlJk-LSAfgs5baGbzl7kUb_-yvyYzc2uYlYJ2Zu9wTIvF80vjn3LcLe0uS-aYXuMHeQOdAI6oTemLLLiR8yjexKrpho_bQIA/s640/2016-04-02_07%25282%2529.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a quick sew and, because of the slim fit, doesn't require very much fabric. The heart fabric is a super soft, cozy sweatshirt fabric from <a href="http://www.loiseaufabrics.com/">l'oiseau</a> (it was a presale and is not available any more but they have lots of lovely retail fabrics and another presale event coming up). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumTfzed5bQRd8-v6-FcKA1o1_7pi6ysnw9wG-Eq4tQySeu-EvzqhMRuEtkfF2DbS4zgM8UCLLD7mTAdONxaX7UIkpxi3tdeGWl2kv9knW1wpo_ZHw791hauivjlQpIIV9vSUsq6ATR1o/s1600/2016-04-02_11%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiumTfzed5bQRd8-v6-FcKA1o1_7pi6ysnw9wG-Eq4tQySeu-EvzqhMRuEtkfF2DbS4zgM8UCLLD7mTAdONxaX7UIkpxi3tdeGWl2kv9knW1wpo_ZHw791hauivjlQpIIV9vSUsq6ATR1o/s640/2016-04-02_11%25283%2529.jpg" width="372" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a straight size 8 and the only change I made was to sew up the side seams using a 1/4" SA instead of 3/8". The sweatshirt fabric has a bit of stretch but I didn't want it to be too tight. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpz0zmOykeni52Af6OltRQCe_6b7lrr0hdn5actRuKwuFrUdQRLui_tGL0gdPwB9yggIHWy0LZs5-7TVEmqqGEOpIM1UlFbKNkRxVudjxhm5uFnvQj8rAC_pJ_RuwX9jqM93RW_0_-b1Q/s1600/2016-04-02_13%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpz0zmOykeni52Af6OltRQCe_6b7lrr0hdn5actRuKwuFrUdQRLui_tGL0gdPwB9yggIHWy0LZs5-7TVEmqqGEOpIM1UlFbKNkRxVudjxhm5uFnvQj8rAC_pJ_RuwX9jqM93RW_0_-b1Q/s640/2016-04-02_13%25282%2529.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can tell, she likes it :)<br />
<br />
Pattern: <a href="http://blaverry.com/products/gracie">Gracie by Blaverry</a> given to me free of charge in exchange for this promotion<br />
Fabric: Falling Hearts from l'oiseau, used approx 1/2 yard $8, blue cotton lycra approx. $6<br />
Total: approx. $14Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-17044841939965386642016-02-10T16:12:00.002-05:002016-02-10T16:12:47.667-05:00Decklyn in Denim<a href="http://blaverry.com/products/decklyn">Decklyn </a>was the first pattern that caught my eye when I first came across <a href="http://blaverry.com/">Blaverry </a>but somehow it never made it to the top of the sewing queue. Until now that is; I was given the pattern to promote for the "Blaverry Blasters" group and sometimes deadline can be a wonderful thing :)<br />
<br />
Am I ever glad I had the opportunity to sew this up; my daughter has told me several times (daily) just how much she loves it. In fact last night, she told me that when she outgrows it, she'd like another one just the same. I was afraid a jacket like this would be frivolous -- depending on the season, my girls either wear a winter coat or go out in just a t-shirt -- but that hasn't been the case at all. J's worn it everywhere she's been in the past week, under her winter coat and in place of a cardigan or sweater. Only much more fashionable :).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0mnUNVocz0SPyqOXdtqcHNdg7VyLSsTdLbPbrMDya9rE3YE-XcvjAI8dwWOM9pgt4EagZWY5owsP3GEu3ZP0Rq8H0wUHByyWdj73iQBGmFqakdabFq1d0QBoPoH3ysSXuXzIJg9N9pk/s1600/2016-02-07_06%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0mnUNVocz0SPyqOXdtqcHNdg7VyLSsTdLbPbrMDya9rE3YE-XcvjAI8dwWOM9pgt4EagZWY5owsP3GEu3ZP0Rq8H0wUHByyWdj73iQBGmFqakdabFq1d0QBoPoH3ysSXuXzIJg9N9pk/s640/2016-02-07_06%25283%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
According to her measurements, J. (age 10) would be about a size 8. She doesn't like things to be too fitted and I thought it wouldn't get worn until spring (silly me!), so I traced off a size 12. We talked about fabric options and I showed her some different ideas but she had a her heart set on denim. No contrast, just denim with a matching navy lining, some bright topstitching and two of the fancy buttons we'd just received from a friend in Korea. Perfect, I had all of that already in my sewing cupboard.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_bi8v7V73XrupIIU3MI099S0WAf3UY1YEd7Yj0PedJHC9e6fFXDEwc0NRZom02z4PG6en232ToKA8m9FDyty6RXs9Fr6Sa6Ff045NhoHfyW1k9vWY0h-c9dBd4mWOEb-724UqcaZRgg/s1600/2016-02-07_13%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_bi8v7V73XrupIIU3MI099S0WAf3UY1YEd7Yj0PedJHC9e6fFXDEwc0NRZom02z4PG6en232ToKA8m9FDyty6RXs9Fr6Sa6Ff045NhoHfyW1k9vWY0h-c9dBd4mWOEb-724UqcaZRgg/s640/2016-02-07_13%25282%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
What I didn't have in my stash were the zippers. My local shop didn't have the right size matching metal zips so I made do with what they did have. I think it would look so much better if they all matched but my daughter doesn't mind.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrKkOpsJdAatblxJhmvIOOVB4POZEX8opXjI-64SbB3wJdNC6-XKdWyt3PBFwT6naeJVsFAdQ9Rn4QieEfxYUtqzH3Lwo4wWyZ5vQiLyrOUYuM5-ze0XDsnjS8PuOJmmvnayt3F4T7Oc/s1600/2016-02-07_09%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrKkOpsJdAatblxJhmvIOOVB4POZEX8opXjI-64SbB3wJdNC6-XKdWyt3PBFwT6naeJVsFAdQ9Rn4QieEfxYUtqzH3Lwo4wWyZ5vQiLyrOUYuM5-ze0XDsnjS8PuOJmmvnayt3F4T7Oc/s640/2016-02-07_09%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My shop also didn't have a 16" navy metal zip so I bought an 18" and then lengthened the jacket by an inch and a half to accommodate it. It turns out I didn't need to do that since the designer recommends folding the excess zipper at the top to fit the length of the jacket. My daughter likes the longer length in any event so it worked out for the best.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbMKTc6i5iLF-gBN6gKBpVofZzyBpgXmVsobSoSfLpn2mXVtNjXdYPkLIXwsqGkYf0haff9LlZ-Idsg35IxJdOpqS15IxNPODphbPM-brbit2-aKYn0Mc9mSixCZmfIWJBWmd1wXf9ds/s1600/2016-02-09_03%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbMKTc6i5iLF-gBN6gKBpVofZzyBpgXmVsobSoSfLpn2mXVtNjXdYPkLIXwsqGkYf0haff9LlZ-Idsg35IxJdOpqS15IxNPODphbPM-brbit2-aKYn0Mc9mSixCZmfIWJBWmd1wXf9ds/s640/2016-02-09_03%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimonQAEkPUTo8SoALq0zeDlSTsRLagCB_qplyW5dqEJWglZBUbDtqKFUPpMlr0adaF23rv0ayWyN1JpeEHVbxy_fQYQlMPZknBon27bjlG4qiko6h86W6z7mAwQk4z3iJuC9Mt7FUF-j4/s1600/2016-02-09_05%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimonQAEkPUTo8SoALq0zeDlSTsRLagCB_qplyW5dqEJWglZBUbDtqKFUPpMlr0adaF23rv0ayWyN1JpeEHVbxy_fQYQlMPZknBon27bjlG4qiko6h86W6z7mAwQk4z3iJuC9Mt7FUF-j4/s640/2016-02-09_05%25281%2529.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7RBY0TvHjTwJ0fu6X-_emme0wu1VBdUk6dI4tsjr7ltZ2du2Sdt24abV6LSQNapU1BrLz0D3hMzKj0htEZO5tb9FFkcmoZives4Vzw8z22hZNDYazxHk-NWFRIVxJRqh8BIaqu4rCU8/s1600/2016-02-09_06%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7RBY0TvHjTwJ0fu6X-_emme0wu1VBdUk6dI4tsjr7ltZ2du2Sdt24abV6LSQNapU1BrLz0D3hMzKj0htEZO5tb9FFkcmoZives4Vzw8z22hZNDYazxHk-NWFRIVxJRqh8BIaqu4rCU8/s640/2016-02-09_06%25281%2529.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">She was very patient as I tried to get some decent pictures in some not so good light</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">but this is her "enough already Mom, I have stuff to do!" face :)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Pattern: Decklyn by Blaverry, free in exchange for this promotion</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Fabric: stretch denim, used approx. 1m, $8</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lining: stash</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Zippers: Fabricland, $7</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Buttons: Gift</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Total: $15</div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-54925318538203181752016-02-09T15:15:00.002-05:002016-02-09T15:15:29.297-05:00Princess Anna Coronation GownThis was one of those ridiculous projects that I convinced myself had to be done. My daughter is in Brownies and when I first found out the troop's winter sleepover camp was Frozen-themed I vaguely thought about making a dress up dress. I dismissed the idea though since it was camp after all; not a place for dress up clothes! But then the week before camp, the leader sent out the itinery: it included a coronation feast in which the girls were invited to wear their fanciest dress!<br />
<br />
So I started on Monday night and finished the final steps (the painting on the bodice) just before we ran out the door to camp on Friday. I work full time and am not a fast seamstress so I was just happy to get it finished. And now I'm trying really hard to ignore the fact that the sleeves don't match up with the bodice and the pleats are uneven, lol!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX1w3NdIsyPV3Ip4QjFSbg3ZfkupzdmOfLSn3AwCHyKkg0EBuriSJmcsqWIsd1AePB8LY0voSDfoPT3LU597klqTGpVSsf1q7px85JrURf_Sdd01lzLXHrpiThF2Wf7pUvgB0fHM_k0Y/s1600/2016-01-29_04%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiX1w3NdIsyPV3Ip4QjFSbg3ZfkupzdmOfLSn3AwCHyKkg0EBuriSJmcsqWIsd1AePB8LY0voSDfoPT3LU597klqTGpVSsf1q7px85JrURf_Sdd01lzLXHrpiThF2Wf7pUvgB0fHM_k0Y/s640/2016-01-29_04%25281%2529.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPyeNx4rJL2IBBOo9KbDDx59RapILTNQApE7HBarxKqibDnBXNQqCo_hs6NlTUw-1ySbAQ3geH97ByZ4i_U4UqTf_Tudlaa0prO_wk0wjmCe2DTYzjNexUFCd2rF8wLZxYgyq2mlZ9sM/s1600/IMG_0939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFPyeNx4rJL2IBBOo9KbDDx59RapILTNQApE7HBarxKqibDnBXNQqCo_hs6NlTUw-1ySbAQ3geH97ByZ4i_U4UqTf_Tudlaa0prO_wk0wjmCe2DTYzjNexUFCd2rF8wLZxYgyq2mlZ9sM/s320/IMG_0939.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pattern: Vogue 7681, cost $9.03US</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fabric: cotton velour from Fabricland, approx. $20, chiffon for the sleeves $1.70</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zipper, elastic, gold accents: stash</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fabric paint: on hand (Canucks green from a shirt I made for my husband plus some purple and blue)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Total: approx. $30</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-82043285920522862242016-01-11T18:09:00.000-05:002016-01-11T18:09:20.701-05:00Blaverry FinnA couple of weeks ago I received an email asking for applicants to join a marketing team for <a href="http://blaverry.com/">Blaverry</a>. I had often admired the clean lines and modern aesthetics of this pattern company and I figured my girls would love them too so I applied. The first pattern I was given to make was the <a href="http://blaverry.com/products/finn">Finn Top</a>. It's a knit top with a three sleeve options (short, long and 3/4 length) and a waterfall peplum. <br />
<br />
I normally consult my daughters before I make anything for them but my eldest was at a sleepover and my youngest doesn't need any clothes so I just went ahead and made it. J.'s measurements put her in a size 8 so that's what I made, with an extra 1 1/2" added to the length of the bodice. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVjQMetmwWz5pYROqBipgt71HC4xfHSCch8MgKYW7wPNcPg7_7pnVOMBZHOgVouogYh1PCT39Y29Ig0UgERfY9J7-xWqOEZ4wjQdjZNstQjaqH2xs50uQrom7FxPO9ZH6F-xpPFy8a4Og/s1600/2016-01-03_12%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVjQMetmwWz5pYROqBipgt71HC4xfHSCch8MgKYW7wPNcPg7_7pnVOMBZHOgVouogYh1PCT39Y29Ig0UgERfY9J7-xWqOEZ4wjQdjZNstQjaqH2xs50uQrom7FxPO9ZH6F-xpPFy8a4Og/s640/2016-01-03_12%25281%2529.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
<br />
The pattern is a PDF and comes in layers so, if you choose, you can print off only the size you need. However, it goes up to size 16 so I printed off all the sizes. I'm much more likely to make something a second time if I don't have to assemble the PDF again and I can definately see myself making other versions of this! I was pleased to see that the pattern lines for the various sizes are different colours, which made tracing super easy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicgRn0N3ZBqUBGLinREnMG5QeYDhQsE3bjLeJ4Hpee_WEQSghhtoopxIyMFRmDGHxHAy9HzPUxKc4aQ-BRY38naDfI2w6SYbHzkxpayGyj_N8hmhPtzpydEYiKId2B3xOh_k9DlNz3Y1w/s1600/2016-01-03_13%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicgRn0N3ZBqUBGLinREnMG5QeYDhQsE3bjLeJ4Hpee_WEQSghhtoopxIyMFRmDGHxHAy9HzPUxKc4aQ-BRY38naDfI2w6SYbHzkxpayGyj_N8hmhPtzpydEYiKId2B3xOh_k9DlNz3Y1w/s640/2016-01-03_13%25281%2529.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The main fabric is a really lovely merino wool/tencel blend I bought through a local facebook group. The only reason I didn't hoard it all for myself was because I have 4m so plenty to make something for me too :) The contrast sleeves are made from a scrap of French terry. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaakIkq3sdTK2IC8Dbd-f4lS7LYG7ILiwjvRK53FrhqdEpBeObGIOK6kKApkX98c9XhSY84Hs-kMpd9QoVKG3nDG4XAyugoFwix2-bPshi1lYSQKVAzSK7-R_xhX9jlojChYDl46hrLg/s1600/2016-01-03_09%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtaakIkq3sdTK2IC8Dbd-f4lS7LYG7ILiwjvRK53FrhqdEpBeObGIOK6kKApkX98c9XhSY84Hs-kMpd9QoVKG3nDG4XAyugoFwix2-bPshi1lYSQKVAzSK7-R_xhX9jlojChYDl46hrLg/s640/2016-01-03_09%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think it looks super cute and is a great "tween" style. J. however feels the bodice is a bit tight and she's not sure about the peplum :(. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86hnYo0pon4hA8ixOnLakIfEMGf1B0T4zE4u0XieTsfrZITVMaTJmEVUdK77LxnicSHNSNgzd7UZbG2BibVMUQW7pdMedyfOP5g3NtTrhCilApVxsTdV3B9xBFyoqHQ_w8xOl9GMS2UU/s1600/2016-01-03_11%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86hnYo0pon4hA8ixOnLakIfEMGf1B0T4zE4u0XieTsfrZITVMaTJmEVUdK77LxnicSHNSNgzd7UZbG2BibVMUQW7pdMedyfOP5g3NtTrhCilApVxsTdV3B9xBFyoqHQ_w8xOl9GMS2UU/s640/2016-01-03_11%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><div>
So Miss 7-year-old-of-the-overflowing-closet was pleased to take it off her hands :)<br /><div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXc0S9f-VaHh08bcTVv6Rwmd6T9Mhkv8c5T27tu-2iw2doLDMl9xXc-m_VKRjD9jJovajxPox-DU5_vcxIUkyQJ4366PwIxWR7_ks9-l9bRKvxFCpeyVFiH7Sqfgwj4tBl9IQBKQd-pzc/s1600/2016-01-03_17%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXc0S9f-VaHh08bcTVv6Rwmd6T9Mhkv8c5T27tu-2iw2doLDMl9xXc-m_VKRjD9jJovajxPox-DU5_vcxIUkyQJ4366PwIxWR7_ks9-l9bRKvxFCpeyVFiH7Sqfgwj4tBl9IQBKQd-pzc/s640/2016-01-03_17%25281%2529.jpg" width="416" /></a></div>
<br />
The pattern is well drafted and the instructions are brief but sufficient. There are no notches on any of the pattern pieces but I didn't have any difficulty putting it together. I look forward to trying other Blaverry patterns!<br />
<br />
Pattern: <a href="http://blaverry.com/products/finn">Finn by Blaverry</a> (free in exchange for this promotion)<br />
Fabric: navy merino wool/tencel from OOM ethikwear approx. $9.50<br />
Total: $9.50 </div>
</div>
</div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-71002360704064349302016-01-02T15:27:00.003-05:002016-01-02T15:27:57.359-05:00My new "uniform" - the Mila ShirtI've made four <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/shop/?affiliates=mouellette80">Itch to Stitch</a> patterns so far (the <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/angelia-shorts-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Angelia Shorts</a>, <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/irena-knit-top-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Irena Knit Top</a>, <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/liana-stretch-jeans-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Liana Jeans</a> and of course the <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/mila-shirt-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Mila Shirt</a>) and am now a dedicated fangirl :) (and also an affiliate, all of the above are affiliate links). Kennis' patterns are well drafted and the instructions are fantastic.<br />
<br />
With a two piece collar, placket, sleeve tabs, cuffs, etc., the<a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/mila-shirt-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80"> Mila Shirt</a> is not exactly a quick sew but it is a satisfying one. I love the two that I've made so much that I think they might push my (multiple) Tovas out of top spot for my "uniform" of choice. With the gathers at the front and the pleat at the back, the Mila definately trumps the Tova in comfort. Of course, having the different cup sizes included in the pattern helps, too. I've never done an FBA but I should really learn how. Or I can just use patterns that are drafted for a D cup :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-G9toVgz52YUxvmXtejuCSbHmcATn4CkoYjiQRwG_uMba0ar9-sLXqKT3DR1TyMAQVbdQTx2DXIjjGsfayw2T30ju2C6LyWNXf1yRjYGZaWf6XoJvtvLK340jZy5TJUcgiaTFNHEwpQ/s1600/2016-01-02_21%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-G9toVgz52YUxvmXtejuCSbHmcATn4CkoYjiQRwG_uMba0ar9-sLXqKT3DR1TyMAQVbdQTx2DXIjjGsfayw2T30ju2C6LyWNXf1yRjYGZaWf6XoJvtvLK340jZy5TJUcgiaTFNHEwpQ/s640/2016-01-02_21%25281%2529.jpg" width="390" /></a></div>
<br />
I made this one out of a navy linen-rayon blend. Which proved really hard to photograph, it's not shiny in real life, I promise!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwteM3N_3xD-cewPcg-to-Tzq1smEd6h0C6xKgObSCL6nFjdp7kCZ1uFIjV4s-7hhbP2CgRUN1BisHcEUadW62NM_LHty8zHCIOnNNaQHyp0SXGpkDIvdWwntT2aiwvFvqXg83Cu7GDZA/s1600/2016-01-02_09%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwteM3N_3xD-cewPcg-to-Tzq1smEd6h0C6xKgObSCL6nFjdp7kCZ1uFIjV4s-7hhbP2CgRUN1BisHcEUadW62NM_LHty8zHCIOnNNaQHyp0SXGpkDIvdWwntT2aiwvFvqXg83Cu7GDZA/s640/2016-01-02_09%25281%2529.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I had to cut my head off this one, I don't know what I was doing with my face!</span></div>
<br />
I will likely usually wear this with the sleeves rolled up but I did add 1 1/2" to the length sleeves to account for my monkey arms in case I want to wear them down. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
My 7 year old insisted on the square sparkly buttons and I think it was a good choice!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPdZNRKmxcp2uVVkPmgbXbdxm3CLKdPsWL-F3IVLnLDHs-gzA2SqLsts6IFoAWYxXTxUOTUlxx8934noUNn6BVS-_2gjs68zUDB9Mjjau0vZTIINBBTT98P3Yd6yP5R3Zb1oVA3ACo7k/s1600/2016-01-02_08%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPdZNRKmxcp2uVVkPmgbXbdxm3CLKdPsWL-F3IVLnLDHs-gzA2SqLsts6IFoAWYxXTxUOTUlxx8934noUNn6BVS-_2gjs68zUDB9Mjjau0vZTIINBBTT98P3Yd6yP5R3Zb1oVA3ACo7k/s640/2016-01-02_08%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNOj1XCNA-34TO1qDd9gyLAdE387yJJgnmevpLrqi22f8GRnB-0p9OR4fpuQEpd9AAh6xkfmcF4o5aIl4YD1C1CruwbHkoNDh5-YIpDjy8aNe4GM9iGLIGPRwOiZa_-YbwNxiXGzRIZM/s1600/2016-01-02_06%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNOj1XCNA-34TO1qDd9gyLAdE387yJJgnmevpLrqi22f8GRnB-0p9OR4fpuQEpd9AAh6xkfmcF4o5aIl4YD1C1CruwbHkoNDh5-YIpDjy8aNe4GM9iGLIGPRwOiZa_-YbwNxiXGzRIZM/s640/2016-01-02_06%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Pattern: <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/mila-shirt-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Mila Shirt </a>(free in exchange for testing)<br />
Fabric: Linen Rayon blend from Dressew $15<br />
Buttons: stash<br />
Total: $15Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-13407507159743926942015-12-30T13:13:00.001-05:002015-12-30T13:27:39.702-05:00Christmas sewing My girls had a couple of on stage performances this month -- both were in the choir at school and both also had recitals at the music school where they take lessons. I knew festive dresses were in order but I really wasn't planning on making them. But after a couple of unsuccessful forays to the mall, it seemed easier just to look for fabric. J. had a very definite idea in mind of what she wanted and we just weren't finding it in the shops. Both of the local fabric shops happened to be closed for renovations at this time but luckily for us <a href="http://ecoequitable.ca/">ecoequitable</a> was having one of their "fill-a-bag" sales (you can load up a grocery bag with as much donated fabric as you can stuff in for $15. The proceeds go towards their training programs, including sewing for employment geared toward people in need). Thankfully we found 2m of this red cotton velour (I think that's what it is anyway). It was the right colour and weight and has a bit of stretch. Plus it's nice and soft.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82I81tQ5gfbwpRTZzl4YzhVxOesM8Be77VQ3F_0BbC50LDsHG8TZq1oZoPtWIpl6bdC3UyQ8RF8KnC1-OU2S89GcCZ4Yj6YTdBaMB_J2D5SjsuV8-bAsu-CWpxdAXss5p74Bmh_C97B4/s1600/2015-12-24_06%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82I81tQ5gfbwpRTZzl4YzhVxOesM8Be77VQ3F_0BbC50LDsHG8TZq1oZoPtWIpl6bdC3UyQ8RF8KnC1-OU2S89GcCZ4Yj6YTdBaMB_J2D5SjsuV8-bAsu-CWpxdAXss5p74Bmh_C97B4/s640/2015-12-24_06%25281%2529.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The pattern is <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7079-products-49274.php?page_id=486">McCalls 7079</a>, a good basic pattern that I've made once <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50842074@N08/18324028302/in/photostream">before</a>. I altered the sleeves to make them 3/4 length and added a couple of inches to each of the skirts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfI0MIi5okL-KFkr4v6xF0ibPfU7T3zY_j0LABkYXV5JVOzS58nQFPRMMGHPsdEIDEkJQq5Yph2IrAtht-NP-95C5nohOC_lGSknr12tiz2LuHhkYds4pWlvwAR8m2Lupg0-k4Kl_U30/s1600/2015-12-12_03%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfI0MIi5okL-KFkr4v6xF0ibPfU7T3zY_j0LABkYXV5JVOzS58nQFPRMMGHPsdEIDEkJQq5Yph2IrAtht-NP-95C5nohOC_lGSknr12tiz2LuHhkYds4pWlvwAR8m2Lupg0-k4Kl_U30/s640/2015-12-12_03%25281%2529.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(The skirt looks really wonky in this picture. I *think* it's just because of the way she's standing </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">but it really makes me want to go back and measure it!!)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
By request, I also added an inch and a half to the length of the bodice for K. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0yHYCPJf73328bBCKqJnigElLtebTjex0YjCTZFBc9tU64PjAmRSUI0LteeXHGR9_Xw2ASz37jgkhBXD-cyVyCtC7iL6GZ5FzRjsfiVGlnFpj_-kNVz0CYZD0aAM9FuVBEccGwrBZ7g/s1600/2015-12-13_03%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0yHYCPJf73328bBCKqJnigElLtebTjex0YjCTZFBc9tU64PjAmRSUI0LteeXHGR9_Xw2ASz37jgkhBXD-cyVyCtC7iL6GZ5FzRjsfiVGlnFpj_-kNVz0CYZD0aAM9FuVBEccGwrBZ7g/s640/2015-12-13_03%25281%2529.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />
I had some "jewels" and beads I'd salvaged off a shirt that ended up being worn to rags so I sewed them to the necklines for a bit of sparkle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMnDYssvHp1mjBsAkT8Xck7iLboseV3PAHBczypI0rS_DEbiREcKLeI1ErbGAucnBBENEOKnG2dulrJcn72Ou8eqXDZttJmIbAWeRsOG_arexleVG6rHAqBURpeDGZ_Hpftemiy_3V9w/s1600/2015-12-13_06%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMnDYssvHp1mjBsAkT8Xck7iLboseV3PAHBczypI0rS_DEbiREcKLeI1ErbGAucnBBENEOKnG2dulrJcn72Ou8eqXDZttJmIbAWeRsOG_arexleVG6rHAqBURpeDGZ_Hpftemiy_3V9w/s640/2015-12-13_06%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The girls also had pyjama day at school so needed some new duds. I hadn't planned on making these either but we made a trip to the states in November (Disneyworld!) and I did a bit of fabric shopping while we were travelling. It seemed a bit mean to make the kids hang out in a fabric store and not pick anything for themselves so we came away with some flannel. Unfortunately since I was distracted by my own list, I didn't buy enough to actually make the pjs I promised them. So K. ended up with two different sleeves and J. ended up with bottoms cut on the cross grain. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwrM_f6lkbhexYF1aA2nm8Pu9yEg-BbMsXVjxPx7JjmPu6ogansn3OSGB-tqYG6NWPrI31VvSeJNVodlYvQdE8UkYRysHNNKVDeMogGn0UeuBrTU9KUVZGCmgC7dPT8CxrYi2mkL2q6c/s1600/2015-12-19_04%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwrM_f6lkbhexYF1aA2nm8Pu9yEg-BbMsXVjxPx7JjmPu6ogansn3OSGB-tqYG6NWPrI31VvSeJNVodlYvQdE8UkYRysHNNKVDeMogGn0UeuBrTU9KUVZGCmgC7dPT8CxrYi2mkL2q6c/s640/2015-12-19_04%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0CyWNOXfZSwiz-KyGWHI-yQP27EeC8XtLbzvvACvekH8I2NPL-wlRq7mKl8Nq0eOoZT3xKd3mGuQC-jNHMJO40KCZymnluPF3-IwrmUDSToP34-gTrOkV8nY9myBW2sKlQGLN9NDOWo/s1600/2015-12-19_10%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0CyWNOXfZSwiz-KyGWHI-yQP27EeC8XtLbzvvACvekH8I2NPL-wlRq7mKl8Nq0eOoZT3xKd3mGuQC-jNHMJO40KCZymnluPF3-IwrmUDSToP34-gTrOkV8nY9myBW2sKlQGLN9NDOWo/s640/2015-12-19_10%25281%2529.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">My little helper -- she loves to bake!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
I didn't get any pictures of J's when I finished them and then they tore in the second week of wear. I don't know if that's crappy fabric, bad fit or the fact that I cut them on the cross grain. She's excited about a patch on her butt though so all is not lost, lol!<br />
<br />
The pattern is the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS029SLD.html">Sleepover Pajamas</a> from Oliver and S. The only change I made was to shorten the front and back crotch by an inch and a half -- they were really long and droopy!<br />
<br />
I had ordered fabric from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Purpleseamstress-Fabric-135198749843668/">Purpleseamstress</a> in September for Christmas nighties (which are, of course, not suitable for December school pj days!). J's is kind of short because the penguin fabric shrunk a lot -- like 6 inches! -- and I only ordered a yard. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXsqiZT9b0c7at0Z8zrQPameugOFip5433GTVc7ptR3swmsyVdwt4nXYf92HakFvEn6l8PhCET40z0duqB1bcdAQdIsdnp7Avv_PPhHtq-C0ipKSHT1bMBoey3-ZbEzO4LSL_ynmirAb4/s1600/2015-12-24_10%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXsqiZT9b0c7at0Z8zrQPameugOFip5433GTVc7ptR3swmsyVdwt4nXYf92HakFvEn6l8PhCET40z0duqB1bcdAQdIsdnp7Avv_PPhHtq-C0ipKSHT1bMBoey3-ZbEzO4LSL_ynmirAb4/s640/2015-12-24_10%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
K's is the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS020HSD.html">O+S Hopscotch</a> dress and J's is J<a href="https://jalie.com/jalie3245-raglan-tee-racerback-tank-tunic-pattern">alie 3245</a>. I debated about using the hopscotch pattern for both but it runs small and I wasn't sure that a 12 would fit J. Due to limited fabric, the back of K's is solid red. I like the quality of the solids from purpleseamstress but wont order from them again until the dollar improves. Including shipping and exchange, these used almost $30 worth of fabric!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH31G8HOhfINpibKgSXz749pBTy0_4snoRF7CXsRfmLWmMaQf8DFWaCBaSxPlwvoz2JOX8rXq5vj-IMt1NchyJAjRILqirFPPk9NJKho_xVHjwvyuFDcVOSJ-EF4wFLjQdCm1UQ19F79E/s1600/2015-12-25_20%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH31G8HOhfINpibKgSXz749pBTy0_4snoRF7CXsRfmLWmMaQf8DFWaCBaSxPlwvoz2JOX8rXq5vj-IMt1NchyJAjRILqirFPPk9NJKho_xVHjwvyuFDcVOSJ-EF4wFLjQdCm1UQ19F79E/s640/2015-12-25_20%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And lastly, I didn't make the shirt and can't take credit for the saying but I did add the lettering in fabric paint on a tee for my husband :). <br />
<br />
Dresses:<br />
Pattern: McCalls 7079, used before (cost per use $2.26US)<br />
Fabric: approx. $8 for both<br />
Beading: recycled<br />
<br />
Jammies:<br />
Pattern: Sleepover, used before (cost per use $3.98)<br />
Fabric: $10US for Ks, $8.50US for Js<br />
Buttons: stash<br />
<br />
Nighties:<br />
Pattern: Hopscotch, used before (cost per use $5.36)<br />
Jalie Raglan, used before (cost per use $4.55)<br />
Fabric: used approx. 2 yards $28.83 for bothMelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-29702436320673811832015-11-23T09:41:00.000-05:002015-11-29T10:32:55.024-05:00Mila ShirtI had such a great experience testing the <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/angelia-shorts-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">Angelia Shorts </a>for <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/shop/?affiliates=mouellette80">Itch to Stitch</a> that I jumped at the chance to test the Mila Shirt. I don't have much to say about this except that I love it. The instructions are great and the fit is spot on (and the pattern includes cup sizes A to DD!). The only change I made to this one was to lengthen the sleeves by 2" and shorten the body by 2". I like the shorter length but I wish I'd thought to tone down the curve on the side, though -- it shows off the muffin top if I lift my arms up, lol. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioF2J9OGi8uNjcd0qAuZ8YiYm5TfI0NKGvp9jdUxeI0qqqxUdRbzHnXqPtGWRYPTa2W107h_IotKz3RDVE0F9JxWCc0WeLfA-6UI4woow2pICwtJH6iNX6USTt988LmnQ_L_zUXgi9F9s/s1600/2015-10-04_33%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioF2J9OGi8uNjcd0qAuZ8YiYm5TfI0NKGvp9jdUxeI0qqqxUdRbzHnXqPtGWRYPTa2W107h_IotKz3RDVE0F9JxWCc0WeLfA-6UI4woow2pICwtJH6iNX6USTt988LmnQ_L_zUXgi9F9s/s640/2015-10-04_33%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLl31LHl-h-9s02On-nzTh3C_6luStgGBR9eR6Z71fWFCBePAp0GIYfG-4bHvfmanZOC0mp5v5PAj5HiC09tJFMSwpPN0WhEjYcame5570tvslc_DZjb8hBZeoLt0Vu8KqYKtqhh2PaRk/s1600/2015-10-04_41%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLl31LHl-h-9s02On-nzTh3C_6luStgGBR9eR6Z71fWFCBePAp0GIYfG-4bHvfmanZOC0mp5v5PAj5HiC09tJFMSwpPN0WhEjYcame5570tvslc_DZjb8hBZeoLt0Vu8KqYKtqhh2PaRk/s640/2015-10-04_41%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaj6cH6RW9qb4tzCXwqqx4_BJbtEpburaCjCoGbqv4Ih7rw9pF7Nkoav_JLYjPr4dYl7y8TUdzD2PFgJLPtmaejM33AxESs-d29zXf6r2heeikgtxKiX6b85U9Z_4a5oZvuj6E6EGp2hE/s1600/2015-10-04_46%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaj6cH6RW9qb4tzCXwqqx4_BJbtEpburaCjCoGbqv4Ih7rw9pF7Nkoav_JLYjPr4dYl7y8TUdzD2PFgJLPtmaejM33AxESs-d29zXf6r2heeikgtxKiX6b85U9Z_4a5oZvuj6E6EGp2hE/s640/2015-10-04_46%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Mila pattern is currently being sold as part of the <a href="https://indiesew.com/collections/winter-2016#collection">Indiesew Winter 2016 Collection </a>or you can buy it as a <a href="https://indiesew.com/products/itch-to-stitch-mila-shirt#product">on it's own</a> in paper or PDF format. After November 30, it will be available in PDF at <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/shop/?affiliates=mouellette80">itch-to-stitch.com</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-39724382955986731212015-10-28T10:56:00.000-04:002015-10-28T10:56:02.182-04:00Princess LeiaMy 7 year old's first choice of costume was the nurse from Animaniacs. I vetoed that after watching one clip, lol. Not yet, please! (Actually, not ever, thank-you-very-much!). I suggested a few other things which were all soundly rejected and was pleased when she came up with Princess Leia on her own -- a comfortable, recognizable, easy to execute costume that is age appropriate; perfect!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZocPDBFhMbt2EDJByIAp3idqg8XO9yll2HTLTS91r1v05fVW3-qQZD7va6UJv9tOebPUIt9kzuODoUaUJGU7nGjCFQUAYo9CkPz5I-OEGesQ-ze3wJi1OBuIcIAsuzXXJ4J6c4DF4I-o/s1600/2015-10-26_11%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZocPDBFhMbt2EDJByIAp3idqg8XO9yll2HTLTS91r1v05fVW3-qQZD7va6UJv9tOebPUIt9kzuODoUaUJGU7nGjCFQUAYo9CkPz5I-OEGesQ-ze3wJi1OBuIcIAsuzXXJ4J6c4DF4I-o/s640/2015-10-26_11%25282%2529.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
<br />
I used the Oliver and S field trip tee yet again, in size 10, lengthened to an a-line dress and with bell sleeves. The only other change I made was to double the size of the neck band. She didn't want a mock turtle neck so this was my compromise. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAYsgvHR0kQhTzm6wWqltucs2hOh1S7jDP0_kYe36EP0TK6sPmNbZYmjPGmtXa4lPqxyLMpKU6p_CNCpdEaJTPTb4GSfNDOlZfNWYazXi45aLEp-f-5Au7_TtVUJcPZSZPMSVr8-ckDA/s1600/2015-10-26_10%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAYsgvHR0kQhTzm6wWqltucs2hOh1S7jDP0_kYe36EP0TK6sPmNbZYmjPGmtXa4lPqxyLMpKU6p_CNCpdEaJTPTb4GSfNDOlZfNWYazXi45aLEp-f-5Au7_TtVUJcPZSZPMSVr8-ckDA/s640/2015-10-26_10%25281%2529.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
<br />
The belt is the embroidered edge of the sheet I used to make her older sister's costume. It's not exactly authentic but she's happy with it. <br />
<br />
The buns were the hardest part -- for a tough cookie, she's got a very sensitive scalp and a very low tolerance for anything being the least bit uncomfortable on her head. It took me a couple of tries to get them in and then apparently the buns weren't tight enough to her head. She was wearing the costume to the Halloween party for her Brownie troop last night and I wanted to get photos of it in a (relatively) pristine state. The loose buns prompted a huge meltdown with me pleading for a just a couple of pictures before it got too dark. This was the response, oh my goodness I love this kid!:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6z9TRwPqwpYWMZSvG77o1GsQXZviiDV9gCW0VVdT7rN9rYYx1iksLUkGTFkqnKpQsm0IRO3ReBBw6wUCMcaWr4oTLrBNdKf-l0l3SkibsyHFctLwoiaCVKEx4RfrqaWoZBhJoz3jIuXo/s1600/2015-10-26_04%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6z9TRwPqwpYWMZSvG77o1GsQXZviiDV9gCW0VVdT7rN9rYYx1iksLUkGTFkqnKpQsm0IRO3ReBBw6wUCMcaWr4oTLrBNdKf-l0l3SkibsyHFctLwoiaCVKEx4RfrqaWoZBhJoz3jIuXo/s640/2015-10-26_04%25281%2529.jpg" width="374" /></a></div>
<br />
I did fix them before the party, I just wanted a picture before the light was gone! Mean mom, lol!<br />
<br />
Fabric: white cotton interlock from value village -- super score: almost 6m for $8. Tonnes left for other things<br />
Pattern: oliver and s field trip tee. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-56328507481366818882015-09-23T09:48:00.001-04:002015-09-23T09:48:37.268-04:00Crescent SkirtJ. is now shopping in the women's section -- size 7 shoes and size 0 shorts for the start of school! She's only 10 *wail*. But on the plus side, it opens up a whole new world: shopping trips that don't need to be limited to Justice (ugg!) and sewing projects using patterns I've bought for myself. Although that's not actually true in this case -- I bought this pattern specifically for her (I doubt it would do much to flatter my much larger hips) but the option is there.<br />
<br />
This is the <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/crescent-skirt/">Crescent Skirt</a> from <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/">Sewaholic</a>. The waistband has lots of interesting seaming and the finishes are great, including twill tape for stability inside the pockets and on the waist. I was happy to have the sewalong pictures from the Sewaholic website when it came time to insert the zipper, though, because the instructions did not make sense to me. My zipper is still a bit wonky but oh well! <br />
<br />
I like the pieced yoke but will probably just cut two facings if I make it again for J.: the details are lost unless you tuck your shirt in, which she will likely never do!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNR6hbK0lyGyS2GCfhTiEH_IvEzyxLwEk3HpYJFXMQfDhusb0_w33eUZQYKIgQECNXowhukeAwCVhpHH_bji4IwPfp4YAvpFUaMojX574rS0v9XebvBLSltzIWqQCrX4osYaR4sBqqJY/s1600/2015-09-23_02%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNR6hbK0lyGyS2GCfhTiEH_IvEzyxLwEk3HpYJFXMQfDhusb0_w33eUZQYKIgQECNXowhukeAwCVhpHH_bji4IwPfp4YAvpFUaMojX574rS0v9XebvBLSltzIWqQCrX4osYaR4sBqqJY/s640/2015-09-23_02%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJUXbsk_zvAh1K_B8HKVhgTcdoTjXbJRCzqH5XLxAFmC8p50Al-_CTAaVcwKe2UgGxXc0uQqIqR2EtsyfU_5_Ae5aWSKRLkX91NlA04R1oFGBNTgNMgpEJOvRQl2V_7g1oVg4pCK2RAaw/s1600/2015-09-23_03%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJUXbsk_zvAh1K_B8HKVhgTcdoTjXbJRCzqH5XLxAFmC8p50Al-_CTAaVcwKe2UgGxXc0uQqIqR2EtsyfU_5_Ae5aWSKRLkX91NlA04R1oFGBNTgNMgpEJOvRQl2V_7g1oVg4pCK2RAaw/s640/2015-09-23_03%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I made view B as I knew J. would like the fullness. Based on her measurements, I cut size 2 but I think a 0 would have fit her more like the pattern intends. As it is, it sits well below her natural waist but she seems happy with the fit. She loves the pockets as they're big enough to fit a paperback, a huge plus for a kid who carries a book everywhere she goes.<br />
<br />
The fabric is a mid-weight cotton chambray (maybe?) that I bought off someone on a fb group. Despite her face in this picture, she really likes it. It's been worn 4 times in the past week so I think it's a winner :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9NF3NtLHnIjqE5L-nE8cDfKNApBLVLbcW-dN92ns6-lGVOyXeJgA3NSU5TkjPRxopK_Ih8aHkYsPA4xrGA20oit4uEZi4AkExoQDOtb47QJD8zkmLjjjhTZtxssxx0Kl7aUPZI40iKI/s1600/2015-09-14_03%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9NF3NtLHnIjqE5L-nE8cDfKNApBLVLbcW-dN92ns6-lGVOyXeJgA3NSU5TkjPRxopK_Ih8aHkYsPA4xrGA20oit4uEZi4AkExoQDOtb47QJD8zkmLjjjhTZtxssxx0Kl7aUPZI40iKI/s640/2015-09-14_03%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Pattern: Crescent Skirt $12.63<br />
Fabric: cotton chambray $6<br />
Zipper: ~$2.00<br />
Total: $20.63Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-79894941554411853072015-09-07T18:51:00.001-04:002015-09-07T18:51:32.483-04:00Puple(ish) PinwheelK. was not keen about this fabric combination when I showed it to her but once I had the idea, I felt an overwhelming compulsion to make it even if K. never wore it. I'm hoping she has come round. She loves the polka dots, no question; it's the cotton shirting she wasn't keen on. Maybe it looked too dull to her? It doesn't really read as purple until it's paired with something obviously purple. The fabrics weren't bought together -- I bought the cotton shirting in Hamilton with a top for myself in mind but that went out the window when I got it home I found the crease down the middle was permanently faded. Boo. I might have been able to jimmy things around to eke out a top but since it didn't happen right away, it most likely wasn't going to happen but it's lightweight and soft so perfect for this dress. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEg1DvpK6s3V8Ayt-XbSBP4_wyooiwYMkCOZDumpGKrhSj_tSdR_2E8WV8OSWbRJ8DZVz79OgXJmeRPzL7BOkdaf4YLQ9HB3bZmg7h43QLh8WDtTPhR4ovC8rkm00mGG4775X5vNNhzRo/s1600/2015-09-07_16%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEg1DvpK6s3V8Ayt-XbSBP4_wyooiwYMkCOZDumpGKrhSj_tSdR_2E8WV8OSWbRJ8DZVz79OgXJmeRPzL7BOkdaf4YLQ9HB3bZmg7h43QLh8WDtTPhR4ovC8rkm00mGG4775X5vNNhzRo/s640/2015-09-07_16%25283%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I bought a metre of the polka dots at Dressew in Vancouver this summer with a 2+2 skirt in mind for Kate. The selvedge says it's Sevenberry from Japan and is a linen cotton blend. It's quite hefty and didn't really soften up with washing (although I only washed it once). It was a slight splurge and the flounce didn't use the whole metre so that made me pause a bit; I like to make the most of "special" fabric but I couldn't get this dress out of my head so cut into it. I'm sure I'll find some way to use up the remaining odd piece. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuPwcje_epiRvgV5tOuMztNMv2pqVJCUxaTx2u3RidOWTH-qQCw5cJYhPvDQW2u73Q1i_gKp2Pxxh0CirbPJ5mymFOGkGp8rZWnonnrGkYQtzRGpEsnLE1qURjb_cyO3fjZU9xmDLbfQ/s1600/2015-09-07_02%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMuPwcje_epiRvgV5tOuMztNMv2pqVJCUxaTx2u3RidOWTH-qQCw5cJYhPvDQW2u73Q1i_gKp2Pxxh0CirbPJ5mymFOGkGp8rZWnonnrGkYQtzRGpEsnLE1qURjb_cyO3fjZU9xmDLbfQ/s640/2015-09-07_02%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
This is the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS039PWD.html">pinwheel dress</a> from Oliver and S and I love this design. I made size 10 and added an inch to the body. It's big but realistically we've only got a few more weeks (if that) of warm weather so I wanted to make sure it would fit in the spring, too. <br />
<br />
I've made this dress <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2013/04/linen-and-eyelet-pinwheel-dress.html">before </a>and found the facings were a bit of a pain when it was worn so I omitted them and finished the top with bias tape. I also doubled the width of the strap so that it would meet the school dress code. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9dSTxH9vTlCFdVnbt-jmT6GCKXnhCQTH2L3JpFAEDWM6uGzI_CRG9wrWYFneIE1bzqe1hMku69TaKSUQe5tsorAuG6S-Q2HmvBFnMTzzI42281x-O471l1f1E_1_NUXRzd3KbKfxJEU/s1600/2015-09-07_18%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9dSTxH9vTlCFdVnbt-jmT6GCKXnhCQTH2L3JpFAEDWM6uGzI_CRG9wrWYFneIE1bzqe1hMku69TaKSUQe5tsorAuG6S-Q2HmvBFnMTzzI42281x-O471l1f1E_1_NUXRzd3KbKfxJEU/s640/2015-09-07_18%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULeyyIbB8NPHsemDdSCYj_np7Yf_HoOZ90GytjwBEMOxESy1zH-KetjC6gaRe-paGcJNnFWu0xuKX2GSdImXSegP5OlDEToUXhGlpzYGZ_Ug5AumhE-r5_NXWpwgrlSRl8r8n9mxmo14/s1600/2015-09-07_19%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULeyyIbB8NPHsemDdSCYj_np7Yf_HoOZ90GytjwBEMOxESy1zH-KetjC6gaRe-paGcJNnFWu0xuKX2GSdImXSegP5OlDEToUXhGlpzYGZ_Ug5AumhE-r5_NXWpwgrlSRl8r8n9mxmo14/s640/2015-09-07_19%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I love it and I'm glad it's out of my head and in the world. If K. wears it, that will just be a bonus :)<br />
<br />
Fabric: sevenberry linen cotton blend from Dressew in Vancouver, approx. 1/2m $8.50, cotton shirting from Marina's in Hamilton, approx. 3/4m, $5.00<br />
Pattern: Pinwheel dress, used before (cost per use $3.40)<br />
Total: $13.50Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-52620285449978123222015-08-28T17:44:00.001-04:002015-11-29T10:44:29.412-05:00Itch to Stitch Angelia Shorts The timing of the call for testers for <a href="http://itch-to-stitch.com/product/angelia-shorts-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/?affiliates=mouellette80">this pattern</a> in May (!!) was serendipitous -- I had spent a couple hours the weekend before looking for some new shorts with no luck and these were just the style I had been looking for. I also happened to have a block of time that I could devote to making them before the deadline. I made the testing shorts in denim (pictures at the end of the post), another pair in linen (no pictures, sorry!) and a third pair in twill, which I took pictures of today. I've been meaning to write about these shorts for ages but the hold up has been the pictures. I find it really hard to take pictures of myself!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6miR8Tr0OUvW7w4P2XBw45JI7-20ig-EKhML8ffJ_EWzV-WaZ_hoVKk7gDc5qT7ZIUlQGM5nql4jqu_pLmpBsd7Nh4aUDlfZqyZ23CpRWG9wMPHuLCAOnbjHsQxM4tg9Z0lmkDB2M_Q8/s1600/2015-08-28_06%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6miR8Tr0OUvW7w4P2XBw45JI7-20ig-EKhML8ffJ_EWzV-WaZ_hoVKk7gDc5qT7ZIUlQGM5nql4jqu_pLmpBsd7Nh4aUDlfZqyZ23CpRWG9wMPHuLCAOnbjHsQxM4tg9Z0lmkDB2M_Q8/s640/2015-08-28_06%25281%2529.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />
The testing process was great. Kennis set up a facebook page so that we could communicate with her and with the other testers about any issues we were having. She was very receptive to feedback about fit and the clarity of the instructions (which by the way are great -- very thorough and with plenty of accurate illustrations). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrxrwMGakNuPsrMWi-6X2AoEmvE2TbcbTZTsNqGJjsmEQSYk2JqPe9RwbbahhCNs3czkRRiL3O0N0G-rXFF80SMf5JI6RXCrkBT4YVEW9pG19D8TMbLd1ikU0g6Q0-_eiuWLIDcE2qPM/s1600/2015-08-28_16%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrxrwMGakNuPsrMWi-6X2AoEmvE2TbcbTZTsNqGJjsmEQSYk2JqPe9RwbbahhCNs3czkRRiL3O0N0G-rXFF80SMf5JI6RXCrkBT4YVEW9pG19D8TMbLd1ikU0g6Q0-_eiuWLIDcE2qPM/s640/2015-08-28_16%25281%2529.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
<br />
View B is definitely not the quickest to sew but I love all the details that make them look like a pair of ready-to-wear shorts. These totally filled a gap in my wardrobe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_beEXFZi3pTAtJ5mmvTqL6K9q1SKOprKxL4BmFfGrrSyZIFkJMvEH3Df6btmL_pAizAp-7WmDsV3AJeCseuW1gwZEPOTr8G2S7-lnJENO-SmLIGC60ihtnz8huasHUP4Fapee5A_yEPY/s1600/2015-08-28_14%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_beEXFZi3pTAtJ5mmvTqL6K9q1SKOprKxL4BmFfGrrSyZIFkJMvEH3Df6btmL_pAizAp-7WmDsV3AJeCseuW1gwZEPOTr8G2S7-lnJENO-SmLIGC60ihtnz8huasHUP4Fapee5A_yEPY/s640/2015-08-28_14%25281%2529.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgni0IkWXqguCkcL164NecE-BEwtNBRc8m2fWinw5zOqZu3wOA2ebgBDX6ohKHUlg2BHvlYq9UDQA8XQMdoodLpth_HULhHAmTiZGjL1B58tgWNguuLyqs9tznACxcq-vRi7kV6SVrXc/s1600/2015-08-28_22%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGgni0IkWXqguCkcL164NecE-BEwtNBRc8m2fWinw5zOqZu3wOA2ebgBDX6ohKHUlg2BHvlYq9UDQA8XQMdoodLpth_HULhHAmTiZGjL1B58tgWNguuLyqs9tznACxcq-vRi7kV6SVrXc/s640/2015-08-28_22%25281%2529.jpg" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Changes made:<br />
~ In order to accommodate my derriere -- I added a wedge to the back piece to lengthen the back crotch by 1/2" and also extended the back inseam by 1/4". (I think I could still use a bit more space maybe because the twill pair sit higher than my first pair. I messed up the zipper install on the denim pair so the waist is about an inch bigger. That means they tend to slide down under my paunch but also give me a bit more butt room.)<br />
~ I took a 3/8" wedge out of the front in the twill pair<br />
~ sewed the buttons right through tab on the side without doing a buttonhole<br />
~ I left off the pocket tabs on the twill pair. They look good but I use my pockets too much to want to fuss with a button.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0R2HTgOd3zHo7y4PBK_17PqvJJTWBuI2j0vRyEZqiySvPbdwtYQiPRuzy2LfvAeYCno31mHUTu-Rq95GkZci_97uFV3xqsDzh6tnKtZS9uELn6ROfkq21ZcOvSaDGJaVQa8l79FN2jw/s1600/2015-06-07_11%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0R2HTgOd3zHo7y4PBK_17PqvJJTWBuI2j0vRyEZqiySvPbdwtYQiPRuzy2LfvAeYCno31mHUTu-Rq95GkZci_97uFV3xqsDzh6tnKtZS9uELn6ROfkq21ZcOvSaDGJaVQa8l79FN2jw/s640/2015-06-07_11%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5lpFF2eGaoGxe7TxdUJRTxKNaq64c4644e8cbCT15PrNCCmZWfHNDCqV6PH7a_6IaMmZ3FVHvB5s5hwXU9W8Zit_i2vtbtnt8wP_8BktJzjq9AdFpOUZCUBVOBJ2O-c3HjBTB7eJuYo/s1600/2015-06-07_04%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="622" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS5lpFF2eGaoGxe7TxdUJRTxKNaq64c4644e8cbCT15PrNCCmZWfHNDCqV6PH7a_6IaMmZ3FVHvB5s5hwXU9W8Zit_i2vtbtnt8wP_8BktJzjq9AdFpOUZCUBVOBJ2O-c3HjBTB7eJuYo/s640/2015-06-07_04%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-4290621748160156072015-07-07T15:29:00.003-04:002015-07-07T15:29:32.655-04:00l'oiseau creativeThis month I got the opportunity to blog over at<a href="http://www.loiseaucreative.com/"> l'oiseau creative</a>. J. picked out some fun fabric, check it out <a href="http://www.loiseaucreative.com/blog/2015/7/7/bowler-by-melissa-ouellette">here</a>. <br />
<br />
They have some fantastic knits (and other fabrics) that you can find <a href="http://www.loiseaufabrics.com/">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlkfrf57lUrGekV1la7Lgt6pLhUzMWWw42blLjknXvPWk5aQE0ie1ULPVAfQc9QvnvuBay4FYpueDyxGZDuiHGKx86EQOO2J2M7y3NxQETV_BhJ5pPKFFsP3MXs_IdYA9HMtx_diDYFw/s1600/2015-07-01_10%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlkfrf57lUrGekV1la7Lgt6pLhUzMWWw42blLjknXvPWk5aQE0ie1ULPVAfQc9QvnvuBay4FYpueDyxGZDuiHGKx86EQOO2J2M7y3NxQETV_BhJ5pPKFFsP3MXs_IdYA9HMtx_diDYFw/s640/2015-07-01_10%25283%2529.jpg" width="458" /></a></div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-18144572331024711952015-06-23T16:41:00.002-04:002015-11-23T09:41:57.445-05:00Lilith and Eve Drapey BlouseI've come to the realization that I need a deadline; a realistic deadline but a deadline nonetheless. When I'm sewing for the kids, I tend to finish projects relatively quickly because I know if I leave it for too long, whatever it is wont fit or wont be in season. Theoretically I shouldn't grow out of clothes while they're waiting to be sewn up (haha!) so, despite my best intentions, I often get excited about something else (usually making something one of the kids "needs") and I put my own projects aside partially finished for weeks or even months. So I've putting my hand up to test a patterns for women's clothes that I would like to make anyway. <br />
<br />
This is the first pattern from Lilith and Eve,<a href="http://www.lilithandeve.com/products/le101-blouse"> LE101 the Drapey Blouse</a>. I was given a choice of paper or PDF, and I chose paper. The cost of the pattern and shipping was covered by the company. It arrived in a large envelope and was printed on quite thick, good quality paper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl1yB59RPAJMWickdSy7-1DnroVqlvjcnv9Au_KOAh4JC06UoTEVQvozV0jJnYyyodR6q4Z0UtTtbqdyRwC9RM3-H8G1ugv_yXXCzZ4YdnMH4udA-vzL7bB5xSdca4XuOgFZj4CeI6MRI/s1600/2015-04-06_07%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl1yB59RPAJMWickdSy7-1DnroVqlvjcnv9Au_KOAh4JC06UoTEVQvozV0jJnYyyodR6q4Z0UtTtbqdyRwC9RM3-H8G1ugv_yXXCzZ4YdnMH4udA-vzL7bB5xSdca4XuOgFZj4CeI6MRI/s640/2015-04-06_07%25281%2529.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<br />
With the dollar being so low and shipping costs so high, I went shopping for supplies locally. My fabric shopping choices are fairly limited and all I found was this rayon which just happens to be covered in a granny-print floral. The weight and drape were right though (Why, oh why can't fabricland get a decent print with this fabric?? It's really quite nice, flowy and soft, but all the prints look like they should be made into Hawaiian shirts!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmxgxYxzb6pDedHFXHuxrPPVjTshYNNSBkuMiIam-1tsJM1M_EG9I47JTTI5Gxl2XYjHSk8F8q4lY1OkchaI7uqPgVyCOVfw4WQvdVTZxFyuDTZKoo4hxvzn3nhs2iO0Et-9IPw7pWHQ/s1600/2015-04-06_08%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmxgxYxzb6pDedHFXHuxrPPVjTshYNNSBkuMiIam-1tsJM1M_EG9I47JTTI5Gxl2XYjHSk8F8q4lY1OkchaI7uqPgVyCOVfw4WQvdVTZxFyuDTZKoo4hxvzn3nhs2iO0Et-9IPw7pWHQ/s640/2015-04-06_08%25281%2529.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
The pattern pieces were well drafted and, despite the very, very brief instructions, it came together quite easily. My feedback was that more illustrations were needed, as well as more detail given in the written instructions. I think their intention is to do video tutorials for some of the more difficult parts. That doesn't really excite me since I don't have the patience to stop and watch a video when I'm working on something. Plus I don't have a tablet or laptop and my PC is two floors away from my sewing space; I'd rather just have what I need right beside me.<br />
<br />
I also didn't like that the instructions came on a huge piece of paper. I keep my instructions next to my machine when I'm sewing and these were really unwieldy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7KlXco7rEmRAYgn-aUHwM9mdQ-myLH56FXEO_Yfh8o0L-TLslYTCvHOVPo3ctSOe0kEsqA162OSC_iAyFoV_lbUJU40msFCwPi5zPZPkzIa0kHfnkAfIXnTB1STCNd6dE6-1xxphRyQ/s1600/2015-04-06_09%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7KlXco7rEmRAYgn-aUHwM9mdQ-myLH56FXEO_Yfh8o0L-TLslYTCvHOVPo3ctSOe0kEsqA162OSC_iAyFoV_lbUJU40msFCwPi5zPZPkzIa0kHfnkAfIXnTB1STCNd6dE6-1xxphRyQ/s640/2015-04-06_09%25281%2529.jpg" width="416" /></a></div>
<br />
Design-wise I think it's a interesting blouse. It takes quite a bit of fabric to make the curved yokes and the drapey back. I'm not really sure about the buttoned-all-the-way-up look the models are sporting on the website (likely I'm just not cool enough for that) and I wasn't really keen on the baggy, long sleeves (really long! I have monkey arms and the sleeves are long on me!). The sleeves are only finished with a band, not a cuff which strikes me as a little too casual for the rest of the blouse but there is a sleeveless version as well. <br />
<br />
I finished this in April and I have to confess I haven't worn it. It's comfortable but the fabric is too, ummm, <i>bold </i>for me. I thought about making another one and was under the impression that I would be receiving an updated version of the pattern post-testing but I haven't. I emailed the company (twice!) to ask if there were any significant changes made as a result of testing and they didn't respond. The first time was over a month ago and then again two weeks ago. Not sure what's going on there! I did receive a thank-you package in the mail last week -- a fabric glue stick, some ban roll, a swatch card and a necklace charm -- which was very nice but I'm a little taken aback that they don't respond to emails. All that being said, I may make this again in better fabric and if they come out with any new designs, I'd be happy to test again. <br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-15275464178903444892015-04-21T17:19:00.003-04:002015-04-21T17:24:09.227-04:00Girly Secret Agent TrenchThe <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS032ST.html">Secret Agent Trench </a>is such a satisfying sew. I've made it twice before -- once in a ponte knit and once in some sort of stretch suiting. The ponte was very popular with my girls but the suiting was not and I think it was because it felt quite cool to the touch. <br />
<br />
Since K. would be wearing this one on cool days, likely over a dress or short sleeves, I wanted it to be cozy so I underlined it in flannel. I was going to do a hong kong finish if the seams were too bulky but they were manageable so I just followed the normal directions and bound the seams together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfI2vfs0ToZDmNYjxYFSoJAoGY64HEOnn_fhzuS6aHAnBt_OS9k6Xus1UmLkFkQCPG_NiVYuzws_a3w7KM3qmbW81tPUt9kmXSMnUlYvjbjNKVwSQyHcPWvl2Mz9mog5UTLZn1xAakw4/s1600/2015-04-21_21(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfI2vfs0ToZDmNYjxYFSoJAoGY64HEOnn_fhzuS6aHAnBt_OS9k6Xus1UmLkFkQCPG_NiVYuzws_a3w7KM3qmbW81tPUt9kmXSMnUlYvjbjNKVwSQyHcPWvl2Mz9mog5UTLZn1xAakw4/s1600/2015-04-21_21(1).jpg" height="640" width="518" /></a></div>
<br />
I did skip lining the sleeves because I was worried about bulk but in hindsight it would have been fine. The flannel gives the twill a bit more body and warmth but didn't add too much thickness. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwG2MskswZqhWy3nOXx2PH09XLMYTbcm_9aLNLxhW2TqncrkxC4n-Xp07QegqCJlWXu_XNAzmy7vBLi2kDGpgKuQY4wJSPEwxvKYLpUW31ojhQ0oSpoYMEpVtYAs2MFt87Sri-NY67Ns/s1600/2015-04-21_18(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwG2MskswZqhWy3nOXx2PH09XLMYTbcm_9aLNLxhW2TqncrkxC4n-Xp07QegqCJlWXu_XNAzmy7vBLi2kDGpgKuQY4wJSPEwxvKYLpUW31ojhQ0oSpoYMEpVtYAs2MFt87Sri-NY67Ns/s1600/2015-04-21_18(1).jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am always thrilled when I find the right buttons in my button jars. This time I only had 7 of the same button but had two others for the sleeves that are the same colour. Good enough!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltJtJGz9wXlbJ1ylk4bbKDwwIP2LNpEDAe9UNu3AEbKGNfc8Oh_B08UaTZhyphenhyphenuR3vTN9uaj3nMjAMiwbbwOC_PwUJJWVlv2KNoapJ4jdKswxWsLm022P8mBfgsE8wZPxbIF7yI5V7wnk8/s1600/2015-04-21_22(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltJtJGz9wXlbJ1ylk4bbKDwwIP2LNpEDAe9UNu3AEbKGNfc8Oh_B08UaTZhyphenhyphenuR3vTN9uaj3nMjAMiwbbwOC_PwUJJWVlv2KNoapJ4jdKswxWsLm022P8mBfgsE8wZPxbIF7yI5V7wnk8/s1600/2015-04-21_22(1).jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It's size 8 and a bit big right now but this kid is growing like a weed. I think this is the only time it will be worn with the belt as she said it dug into her belly button (?). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5YXEwgvsmBalMteuX0q2ozMCLGe1nlcK1EQidqiMCSplODj_vv1Wp56mmVdiNaOGLUmFjnTM7qe2tMXc0X_ivAYxqU-n7Z8ZgGn0QZyFokNYYwv-UzHcFlG7n_djBPRAITNZU0A70YQ/s1600/2015-04-21_02(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB5YXEwgvsmBalMteuX0q2ozMCLGe1nlcK1EQidqiMCSplODj_vv1Wp56mmVdiNaOGLUmFjnTM7qe2tMXc0X_ivAYxqU-n7Z8ZgGn0QZyFokNYYwv-UzHcFlG7n_djBPRAITNZU0A70YQ/s1600/2015-04-21_02(1).jpg" height="640" width="270" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6AMBPtwfkJLlL2acmeKguwIRZku2cSMhkGiX9MI-zWG9dCc2JXbD0bAChnTIyR4FwgGY8jGCZ99wTMSYqtv6zL-nqd4L9Xnk6C-HRA7x9ScKh3sfJdEc2GSJezP2Q4evp2xW0QA53e0/s1600/2015-04-21_04(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6AMBPtwfkJLlL2acmeKguwIRZku2cSMhkGiX9MI-zWG9dCc2JXbD0bAChnTIyR4FwgGY8jGCZ99wTMSYqtv6zL-nqd4L9Xnk6C-HRA7x9ScKh3sfJdEc2GSJezP2Q4evp2xW0QA53e0/s1600/2015-04-21_04(1).jpg" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
And one last picture: I have a hard time getting natural shots of this little ham so I usually ask her do something funny so I can get a real smile out of her. Sometimes it works, sometimes it backfires. In this case, I asked her to jump and I got some really great expressions but this one was the only one in focus and she looks like she's levitating. Or as though she was sitting in a chair and I photoshopped her in here :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XBdB7W9c8yDPN2QkUJTjna_M5PflIhc1cZ9LY4Om5GydZeSnEc1TWjPODpBhcbdUzfAwcga2BHmJj4g2SNBjjy5CzlGwXzGV7CHYmQTqyMNTGLCjNC9wHsy5ftLrjEkzH0IycCmZeZM/s1600/2015-04-21_11(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XBdB7W9c8yDPN2QkUJTjna_M5PflIhc1cZ9LY4Om5GydZeSnEc1TWjPODpBhcbdUzfAwcga2BHmJj4g2SNBjjy5CzlGwXzGV7CHYmQTqyMNTGLCjNC9wHsy5ftLrjEkzH0IycCmZeZM/s1600/2015-04-21_11(1).jpg" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
Pattern:<br />
- Secret Agent Trench, used before (cost per use $6.44)<br />
<br />
Fabric:<br />
- stretch twill from JoAnns $25. It was on sale and I had an extra 20% off coupon. The exchange rate cancelled that out and then some so it worked out to about $12CDN/yd. I used just over 2 yds.<br />
- flannel lining: ~ $7<br />
- binding: I'm going to say stash since it's been in my sewing cupboard for at least 4 years :)<br />
<br />
Buttons:<br />
- Stash!<br />
<br />
Total: ~$32<br />
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-35893103307164656422015-02-23T08:40:00.004-05:002015-02-23T08:43:04.556-05:00Black and White Hide and SeekMissy chose this fabric herself more than a year ago when Form and Fabric (no longer in business, sigh) was having a free shipping sale. Free shipping to Canada is pretty rare so we went a little crazy :). I didn't think the her excitement over black and white would last but apparently I was wrong. As I am so often when it comes to making things for my little people!! She loved her black and white <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2014/01/kcw-croquet-in-black-and-white.html">Croquet Dress</a> and, when she was "helping" me tidy up my sewing cupboard last week, requested a <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS045HS.html">Hide and Seek dress</a> made out of these two fabrics. I try to steer away from quilting cottons for clothes these days but I also try not to turn down a request. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrc5UX8AErA8W7MNb3La3DzmJjKVFi19vmkHmz1EgV7ueINZlL0DC9KGhrNaGthmDciTwDxMygWK3pV3QWbG2LhXsAaHE2OtxEDUEX16hPQQAXplu2EmmSQ8q0XgVd47GFW9DJQo9U9o/s1600/2015-02-23_01(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrc5UX8AErA8W7MNb3La3DzmJjKVFi19vmkHmz1EgV7ueINZlL0DC9KGhrNaGthmDciTwDxMygWK3pV3QWbG2LhXsAaHE2OtxEDUEX16hPQQAXplu2EmmSQ8q0XgVd47GFW9DJQo9U9o/s1600/2015-02-23_01(1).jpg" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
K. specified the "lacy" fabric (as she called it) be used on the yoke and the sleeves. She also requested a band on the bottom but I talked her out of it (mean mom!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfIE6RiICoo5oWVD2aqBUJ0FmaOWN9nTJyNamPk-DfibCqJEqV61Zf1dm_4Nhu1cdehdpRQderI5fwZvWRVQCoETHSReanAbg3lxepDJnTwZwgasl7BchTwBU-9ISsy_8iaeNkSuqwTc/s1600/2015-02-23_05(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfIE6RiICoo5oWVD2aqBUJ0FmaOWN9nTJyNamPk-DfibCqJEqV61Zf1dm_4Nhu1cdehdpRQderI5fwZvWRVQCoETHSReanAbg3lxepDJnTwZwgasl7BchTwBU-9ISsy_8iaeNkSuqwTc/s1600/2015-02-23_05(1).jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<br />
The buttons were sent to me by one of my mom's friends and although one is bigger than the others, K. thought they were the perfect choice. I love having a huge button stash to go to when I'm finishing something!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONH568M2bD2KYopIXXjYk6kxRDLjiAMnKg8_e6qrAGtZZJI_GTwl6wvBLsjy5JmAD-yVi3fdpdY-7TkLOgFRdAZ1nqRtBKKnhq1vsovKukrNm1L4aNB9T47HcVY0S7RM9uPVrYEFNvH4/s1600/2015-02-23_03(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONH568M2bD2KYopIXXjYk6kxRDLjiAMnKg8_e6qrAGtZZJI_GTwl6wvBLsjy5JmAD-yVi3fdpdY-7TkLOgFRdAZ1nqRtBKKnhq1vsovKukrNm1L4aNB9T47HcVY0S7RM9uPVrYEFNvH4/s1600/2015-02-23_03(1).jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
You can't really tell from far away but I did include the welt pockets. (I didn't give K. the choice of having the welts in the contrasting fabric. bad me!). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fq1n0XoCfe1CSz80FouOQk4vrCD1kccqCw8xo_M3chxjkWeVwsCmpmxJxpU15gwX-COFP56bHNIpCWd1lIhX5DZY72azBMw8uo1V1t6aSjFRA-VbA_BZ0mh-FtpyqpXwQ6sLDhMJFNM/s1600/2015-02-23_02(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Fq1n0XoCfe1CSz80FouOQk4vrCD1kccqCw8xo_M3chxjkWeVwsCmpmxJxpU15gwX-COFP56bHNIpCWd1lIhX5DZY72azBMw8uo1V1t6aSjFRA-VbA_BZ0mh-FtpyqpXwQ6sLDhMJFNM/s1600/2015-02-23_02(1).jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I think I'm going to pretend I haven't finished this yet and give it to K. on her birthday weekend. She loves new clothes for special occasions and, although the party is only a couple of weeks away, it's surprising how quickly something becomes "old" to her. I probably don't help matters by making her new thing all the time but I enjoy it so I'm not going to apologize :p<br />
<br />
Pattern: Hide and Seek $0, used once before<br />
Fabric: Moda, Shades of Black, ~$10<br />
Buttons: Stash<br />
<br />
Total: ~$10Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-2738463692082908212015-02-11T16:41:00.002-05:002015-02-11T16:41:39.333-05:00Late to the Peplum PartyMore than a year and a half ago, I won a $50 gift card and a Colette pattern from Harts Fabric. Excited, I ordered 5 (!) yards of fabric and the <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/hawthorn">Hawthorn</a> pattern, fully intending to make myself a dress. When it arrived, I chickened out and decided to try the blouse version first using some soft cotton plaid I'd bought on sale at fabricland. <br />
<br />
I jumped right in and things were going well; I'd finished the hard parts - the collar, the sleeve plackets, etc. but then the cuffs didn't fit properly so I abandoned it. For 18 months. I don't know if peplums are still in fashion nor do I really care I'm just glad to not have this still haunting me from my sewing cupboard!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAizGssn3kbQrNux0JRML_GiQYTrkp3ZvTyfb_k1yZCRR6pzyrdG40W9NsSTnFAatdtr_ZVGZYr7Vh40ZsKMWkWFHEzDJMZ2LiORqif7TQithwbTXiLGG2iPo5vWchHcwmKbAep6UJqQ/s1600/2015-02-11_18(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAizGssn3kbQrNux0JRML_GiQYTrkp3ZvTyfb_k1yZCRR6pzyrdG40W9NsSTnFAatdtr_ZVGZYr7Vh40ZsKMWkWFHEzDJMZ2LiORqif7TQithwbTXiLGG2iPo5vWchHcwmKbAep6UJqQ/s1600/2015-02-11_18(1).jpg" height="640" width="507" /></a></div>
<br />
I can't remember what size I made or if I made any changes other than grading to a larger size from the bust (maybe?) down. I do remember that even with the larger size, I had to let out the seams a bit were the top joins the peplum. That makes me think either peplums are not for me or this one hits me too low? And now I'm thinking that the area under the bust is too loose. <br />
<br />
Cue awkard photos of me staring out the window because I don't know what to do with my face . . .<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7iTxdEANRZ_Zl5UOMhCkSj8AGsIKsFeXsLXjlyirIjdfHELaV5hQkS-b_3aEa2PBgS0fUF2s1xcJM8BqLoRN07LUetuAAHgfn7DdS_P3LkAdPP9kJ3N98y8pK8caDIQpJ00183hPaiY/s1600/2015-02-11_17(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7iTxdEANRZ_Zl5UOMhCkSj8AGsIKsFeXsLXjlyirIjdfHELaV5hQkS-b_3aEa2PBgS0fUF2s1xcJM8BqLoRN07LUetuAAHgfn7DdS_P3LkAdPP9kJ3N98y8pK8caDIQpJ00183hPaiY/s1600/2015-02-11_17(1).jpg" height="640" width="484" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's the only picture that I managed to take of the back. I'm an even more difficult subject than my kids!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF07WM7u9V6Lg6wkd0omYgQmT5EM2YaivkJRzaUluT-klEPK7wNHyT9Oa6Gq0J4qgNqC9MR2EhS9RBJR_cvhYh-RjDcMkf8AmR1BPo92xmFK-FcpGh31GqRVgdnN5xjI6gSIaiX6oqBQ0/s1600/2015-02-11_11(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF07WM7u9V6Lg6wkd0omYgQmT5EM2YaivkJRzaUluT-klEPK7wNHyT9Oa6Gq0J4qgNqC9MR2EhS9RBJR_cvhYh-RjDcMkf8AmR1BPo92xmFK-FcpGh31GqRVgdnN5xjI6gSIaiX6oqBQ0/s1600/2015-02-11_11(1).jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
<br />
I like the neckline and the collar and am proud of my cuffs (although they're far from perfect!) but I'm on the fence about the top as a whole. I think I'll reserve judgement until I try wearing it for a day or two. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
(I can't see myself ever making the dress since I've come to the realization that I'm really not a dress person so I still have that 5 yards of fabric for something else. Does the dress version really call for 5 yards?? )<br />
<br />
Pattern: Colette Hawthorn - Free!<br />
Fabric: Cotton Plaid - approx. $7.00<br />
Buttons: Stash<br />
<br />
Total: $7.00Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-71276134088551623882015-01-25T16:16:00.001-05:002015-01-25T16:16:35.386-05:00Chambray Hide and Seek TunicI've felt pretty lethargic the last couple of months so I haven't done much sewing. But the days are getting longer and I'm starting to feel a bit better. I also broke down and bought a SAD light --<a href="http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B000W8Y7FY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00"> this one</a> -- that I've been using when I first get up in the morning so maybe that's helping? Even if it's a placebo, it's worth it :) I had a burst of energy yesterday and sewed something from start to finish. I rarely do that even at the best of times but what a feeling of accomplishment! It's the little things, right? <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwOgBxl1TQksUIwiWuay1YpukBiskA1LeWAIUDOOXik7pHI8suZHehapK_m3nC5yUUYa0HK2DQx00hovBHm3GlbsQpZP0Kis2idarV7kuDrivwjVnzOmdZ8DTZdu9aWtYV07Hh_5f9nQ/s1600/2015-01-25_02.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwOgBxl1TQksUIwiWuay1YpukBiskA1LeWAIUDOOXik7pHI8suZHehapK_m3nC5yUUYa0HK2DQx00hovBHm3GlbsQpZP0Kis2idarV7kuDrivwjVnzOmdZ8DTZdu9aWtYV07Hh_5f9nQ/s1600/2015-01-25_02.gif" height="640" width="524" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I bought the pattern -- the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS045HS.html">Hide and Seek Dress/Tunic</a> -- during the last O+S pattern sale. I had given away a bunch of my handmades that the girls had outgrown. One the people I mailed a dress to sent me a gift card to on the day of the day of the sale so I didn't hesitate to spend it. I think this might be my new favourite pattern :). It came together so nicely and looks fantastic. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsdmz5UX7faDqsMGy333pctkGbL8GcPcWTLYuv-O1zZ0_7qs9k7TuazlsuBVkZA3g3o95h4SAXBln9Gfxy9jOrAVf-uSjnp9ifIU6RYHlVRmVNUi8jY4bzC2WxJBxQNE7xBCV3Vqg5xE/s1600/2015-01-25_03.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsdmz5UX7faDqsMGy333pctkGbL8GcPcWTLYuv-O1zZ0_7qs9k7TuazlsuBVkZA3g3o95h4SAXBln9Gfxy9jOrAVf-uSjnp9ifIU6RYHlVRmVNUi8jY4bzC2WxJBxQNE7xBCV3Vqg5xE/s1600/2015-01-25_03.gif" height="500" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The purple fabric is a really soft cotton chambray I bought at fabricland (I used it before for <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2013/10/miss-mush-library-dress.html">this costume</a> and <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2013/11/purple-chambray-playtime-dress.html">this dress</a> but just had a little bit left). The lace yoke is bit of drapery fabric that I basted to the top front panel before sewing up the tunic. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0A4O8cmfTOQzzlo9gP9LqfHoie0SUFCiX_2qFMAY75vTbrtVwI1ALwEv52nqT6lZuXbOg_LwD9EgLkvvukVoB-3CEy3lWZ0hi0pim7Int66uxuRnk2d7B9ALZukg0iidJ6UxAjPi850/s1600/2015-01-25_01.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0A4O8cmfTOQzzlo9gP9LqfHoie0SUFCiX_2qFMAY75vTbrtVwI1ALwEv52nqT6lZuXbOg_LwD9EgLkvvukVoB-3CEy3lWZ0hi0pim7Int66uxuRnk2d7B9ALZukg0iidJ6UxAjPi850/s1600/2015-01-25_01.gif" height="640" width="548" /></a></div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
I used the view B but then added a couple of extra inches in length so it ended up being slightly long for a tunic. Dresses don't work with snowpants and, according to K., neither do jeans so tunics and leggings are perfect for the next couple of months :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GBHg7cIUjndLgDZjy-4DIAzI0gygIossmL8rEZs-f8yC5izngDhbwlrhXgo1xUv3sxHIPqMFP_1NlJMRiD1CPvJbWFnF_L5nGPW3m1OLPqMriGYQH2srwZSzdmwA4PsVyUZNwdt-LZA/s1600/2015-01-25_07(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6GBHg7cIUjndLgDZjy-4DIAzI0gygIossmL8rEZs-f8yC5izngDhbwlrhXgo1xUv3sxHIPqMFP_1NlJMRiD1CPvJbWFnF_L5nGPW3m1OLPqMriGYQH2srwZSzdmwA4PsVyUZNwdt-LZA/s1600/2015-01-25_07(1).jpg" height="640" width="328" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She's pleased with it and wanted to put it on right away. As usual she's a moving target so this was the only in-focus picture I was able to get of her wearing it. It is so cute and suits her so well :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Pattern: O+S Hide and Seek, bought with a gift card</div>
<div>
Fabric: Purple Chambray approx. $3, drapery fabric approx. $.50</div>
<div>
Buttons: Stash</div>
<div>
Total: $3.50 </div>
Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-1990165038131291242014-10-23T20:50:00.002-04:002014-10-24T06:47:26.302-04:00"Hi, I'm Olaf and I like warm hugs"This is, of course, Olaf from Frozen. I'm sure we'll see lots of Olafs, Elsas, Annas and Kristoffs for Halloween this year! I was surprised but not altogether unhappy when K. told me (in July!) what she wanted to be. It tends to be quite cool in this part of the world at the end of October but there's no danger that she'll be cold in this! In fact, I debated about making a second "indoor" costume for school and Sparks and parties but came up with an even better (quicker) solution which you'll see if you make it to the end! <br />
<br />
I started with the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS038RS.html">Roller Skate Dress</a> from Oliver and S and, other than the elastic at the bottom, actually didn't make any changes to it. To accommodate all the extra padding, I made it in size 10 although K. would normally wear a 7 or 8. <br />
<br />
I used fleece for both the lining and the outside of the dress, mostly because I was initially going to rely on the dress and the elastic to make it "pouf". That wasn't enough though so I also stuffed it with batting. I added strips of tulle in the bottom, too, because I had them and I ran out of batting. I really should have just bought another bag of batting, though. She loves it but I feel it could have been rounder. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1GS-fUPMr5uUgejbJHNYi1pvNWdSoqx7Yjki_puzMvpVFLsriyNJk98KCLiu8Kh9pbpELPTMOJ7KO8XAjPu7uakrN-85OFNlcFhntVjz0XZ8BaMOWqEE1qBRyUOx3katfpG7GYGafZg/s1600/2014-10-23_01(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1GS-fUPMr5uUgejbJHNYi1pvNWdSoqx7Yjki_puzMvpVFLsriyNJk98KCLiu8Kh9pbpELPTMOJ7KO8XAjPu7uakrN-85OFNlcFhntVjz0XZ8BaMOWqEE1qBRyUOx3katfpG7GYGafZg/s1600/2014-10-23_01(2).jpg" height="640" width="562" /></a></div>
<br />
I asked her to let me take a picture of the back and this what I got, complete with a booty shake. This kid makes me laugh :). I didn't change anything except that the button is on the inside and that wasn't on purpose -- hey, when the lining and the dress are both the same fabric, it's easy to get them mixed up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpV4r0jBw9eQMS4lgiK-YxTA25PEeVza98DxWA-sSD8wlMIPEzdMnhJ72kzBmcwo8eLarXlKZ_qFNJp-ezwaeHr3FKqZH4rJoyt-faFmjLNU542fXy6vK0-KWsW74_oS_NoNVwNejihI/s1600/2014-10-23_08(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpV4r0jBw9eQMS4lgiK-YxTA25PEeVza98DxWA-sSD8wlMIPEzdMnhJ72kzBmcwo8eLarXlKZ_qFNJp-ezwaeHr3FKqZH4rJoyt-faFmjLNU542fXy6vK0-KWsW74_oS_NoNVwNejihI/s1600/2014-10-23_08(2).jpg" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
The hat is, of course, the cozy winter hood from <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS026LIT.html">Little Things to Sew</a>. I've lost count of how many time I've made that pattern! (I think I say that everytime, lol!). I made it twice for this costume, though. This is the medium but I made a large, too. I thought it would look more olaf-y but K. wouldn't even consider putting it on. She has a thing about hats (and shoes) being small almost to the point of being uncomfortable. But if she's happy in this one, I'm happy, too. And I have a hat to send to my nephew for his birthday!<br />
<br />
The hood is fleece lined with flannel and the "twigs" are pipe cleaners covered in velour. I sliced to top pattern piece into two pieces so that I could sew them in. I don't think they'll make it through the wash but they only have to last through three events. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mIFUvJrd9ZP1-D_ABuhnN3HGTthl-4ug4VCCFzufvD_n2WJBYUHAXzdE0d1ioWCYNS1RBO3LFDwq0TcIhc9eueO2sJ-_vSNQ6bNNnFvKGXJZZ52yGvUUrfw1eNdSBfgTXmMYA8cOFe4/s1600/2014-10-23_13(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mIFUvJrd9ZP1-D_ABuhnN3HGTthl-4ug4VCCFzufvD_n2WJBYUHAXzdE0d1ioWCYNS1RBO3LFDwq0TcIhc9eueO2sJ-_vSNQ6bNNnFvKGXJZZ52yGvUUrfw1eNdSBfgTXmMYA8cOFe4/s1600/2014-10-23_13(2).jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And the shirt underneath is also Oliver and S -- the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS035FC.html">Field Trip Tee</a>. K. just got lucky on this one because I was just going to buy a shirt but I accidentally bought brown velour instead of black for another project (I have no idea how, I could swear it looked black on the cutting table but it most definitely is not!) so I had enough to make her a tee. I initially made the whole thing brown but it showed at the neckline so I decided to rip it apart and make it white. Which turned out to be a good decision and it solved my problem a slightly less warm costume for indoors. Some black circles, and voilĂ -- an Olaf "inspired" outfit (which will be worn with white leggings when the time comes of course!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6z1vCXSH4PsMu5dT12wBS_XEthBIreN-C2sPr8pU0xORHQIs-LDhzZWEIW-qwcAkQQ3spY3iMGGCfhQu-HUkEJRdRIvG6pDcXm2QgC70p9xvMPINToy5pWGIbcUAbQoDkuvarkAr1Sj4/s1600/2014-10-21_02(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6z1vCXSH4PsMu5dT12wBS_XEthBIreN-C2sPr8pU0xORHQIs-LDhzZWEIW-qwcAkQQ3spY3iMGGCfhQu-HUkEJRdRIvG6pDcXm2QgC70p9xvMPINToy5pWGIbcUAbQoDkuvarkAr1Sj4/s1600/2014-10-21_02(1).jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
The best part of this costume is how thrilled K. is about it. It reminds me why I started to sew in the first place -- to be creative and make something unique (or not so unique in this case!!) for the people that I love. I still haven't gotten over the <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2014/10/kristoff-tunic.html">Kristoff incident</a> (nor have I heard from the person who commissioned me to make that costume!) but I'm happy I can do this for my lovely sweet adorable <i>appreciative </i>daughter :). Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-77685862610799023102014-10-11T18:34:00.002-04:002014-10-15T11:41:47.143-04:00Kristoff TunicA few weeks ago, my daughter's teacher approached me after school and asked if I would do her a favour. She used to work with a boy named Tommy. He has Autism and is an athlete and a runner. He also has a huge love for all things Disney, so much so that his parents take him to Disney World every year. This year they timed their trip to coincide with Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party and he wants to go as Kristoff from Frozen. <br />
<br />
Sewing for other people makes me nervous but I figured a tunic couldn't be too hard. Plus I was already making one for my husband so I said yes. I'm happy it's done and I'm hoping Tommy and his mom are happy with it but oh my goodness I was cursing this thing while I was making it! I redid the collar about a million times (well, six (!!) times but it felt like a million). <br />
<br />
And the fur!! The bound fur trim was $26/metre and the yardage was $19/metre so guess which one I bought, lol? So not only did I have to try to cut through this stuff, I had to give each piece a hair cut along the seam allowance after I cut it out. There was fur everywhere! It took me a good couple of hours to vacuum my sewing room when I finished. And I'm still finding clumps that I missed (and clumps that I carried through the house on my clothes. Some even ended up in our dinner. oops!). I will never willingly make anything with fake fur again. Or I will be smart and track down some that's on a ribbon like <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Neotrims-Fur-Beautiful-Incredible-Luxurious/dp/B00IB76ZLW/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413065702&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Neotrims+Fake+Faux+Quality+Fur+Woolly+Fringe+Trimming">this stuff</a>. Jeez, I wish I'd done a bit of research first! <br />
<br />
The main fabric is from my stash - <a href="https://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=39df5816-bbe9-4fc4-bce6-9dbbb8b888bd">Brussels Washer Linen blend in charcoal</a>. Good thing I had it because I couldn't find anything locally that would be suitable for Florida weather! <br />
<br />
Anyway, I started with Thread Theory's <a href="http://threadtheory.ca/products/finlayson-sweater">Finlayson </a>sweater then extended the shoulders, made the neckline more a v-shape, lengthened it and added the shaping. Then drafted (and re-drafted and re-drafted) a new collar. So really, it's not much of a Finlayson anymore! <br />
<br />
<i>edited to add: Wow. I'm completely floored and devastated. The woman who asked me to make this for her son feels it's not close enough to the original for his needs. According to her it would okay for a casual party or trick or treating but not for someone who would be making YouTube videos at the "actual Disney World". She offered to pay for it if I needed her to but said she'd sell it on kijiji!!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I'm not a professional but agreed to do this as favour. She didn't give me any criteria and even asked me to source all the fabric and materials without her input. I agonized over every detail and it didn't turn out exactly as I pictured it but I thought it was pretty good. I am honestly hurt.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9yIylOaKM_tzrl_OUZoO_gwLuY-f2XmLHtOpnUnzABOo-Uh0tikGYDXxpmmzjUHDp4mjbRphQGyVgtUtAsaHKuX8tN1Ub7sk40iVUCvdjJ9LftIm6dnWUkQgoa84hAN3MhniDOVvsbw/s1600/2014-10-11_02.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9yIylOaKM_tzrl_OUZoO_gwLuY-f2XmLHtOpnUnzABOo-Uh0tikGYDXxpmmzjUHDp4mjbRphQGyVgtUtAsaHKuX8tN1Ub7sk40iVUCvdjJ9LftIm6dnWUkQgoa84hAN3MhniDOVvsbw/s1600/2014-10-11_02.gif" height="640" width="432" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRB0MrbX8vy_CNjvhMrfxss4xaJiwTq_ZoOdAR_HWRo2DMk0DIWLU-Pp4kf7szncMIOyPoyz1-yRu_9tCeZE2jxVwcgJ-mpP4OyjQfJrecmzxA_ark3J6gnhaJweOZe90nT__BIAUtKr4/s1600/2014-10-11_05.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRB0MrbX8vy_CNjvhMrfxss4xaJiwTq_ZoOdAR_HWRo2DMk0DIWLU-Pp4kf7szncMIOyPoyz1-yRu_9tCeZE2jxVwcgJ-mpP4OyjQfJrecmzxA_ark3J6gnhaJweOZe90nT__BIAUtKr4/s1600/2014-10-11_05.gif" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-57787909859048229522014-08-26T08:26:00.000-04:002014-08-26T10:50:05.569-04:00Vogue 1387 View A . . . and my first attempt at dyeing fabricI've had this fabric for oh about a year. It's a <a href="http://www.dharmatrading.com/fabric/silk/cotton-silk-blend-43-inch.html">cotton-silk blend</a> from <a href="http://www.dharmatrading.com/">Dharma Trading Co.</a> but although it's not overly lightweight, it was fairly sheer. Since I dislike wearing layers, every time I would pull it out to make something I would end up putting it away. <br />
<br />
Late last Saturday night, I was itching to make something for myself -- we had been away from home for over three weeks and the weeks leading up to our trip were taken up with sewing flower girl dresses -- so I pulled this fabric out once again. I couldn't find anything that would work for a lining, so I decided spur of the moment to dye it. My husband offered to at least do the dishes before I started but I just pushed everything to the side and pulled out my stock pot and <a href="http://www.dharmatrading.com/dyes/dharma-acid-dyes.html">dye</a>. I wasn't really sure what I was doing and I definitely used way too much dye (1 1/2 tsps for 2 yards of fabric) but the only casualty of the whole experience was the wooden spoon I used to stir, now permanently blue. Not bad considering that I'm a horribly messy cook and was not at all organized. (I once mangled the blade to my mom's stand mixer -- I put the spatula down on the mess on the counter. When I picked it up again I didn't notice that a pencil stuck to it so it ended up in the mix. Oops!)<br />
<br />
This is <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v1387-products-47943.php?page_id=260">Vogue 1387</a>. I bought this pattern for view B and actually started that one months ago. I like it but it's waiting for snaps. Sometimes -- especially late at night -- it's more fun to start a new project than sew on snaps!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IZrWwFvcYjpe1Dt_3t0HSee6a8fHgGTa6La4yY1ORTdBT7JY9K9U9L40TE7rq7y31ozBKqY1aOLlYp1sw5gixcQ3Oa-9ZF8dHH9kgua9zIql3wNQuGJis0DeohbvIgxbHicAHjUczcI/s1600/2014-08-25_02(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IZrWwFvcYjpe1Dt_3t0HSee6a8fHgGTa6La4yY1ORTdBT7JY9K9U9L40TE7rq7y31ozBKqY1aOLlYp1sw5gixcQ3Oa-9ZF8dHH9kgua9zIql3wNQuGJis0DeohbvIgxbHicAHjUczcI/s1600/2014-08-25_02(1).jpg" height="640" width="464" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are the changes I made:<br />
I cut the front on the fold along the centre front to eliminate the wrap. There are a few nice versions online but the fact that even the pattern cover has the blouse tacked in place turned me off. I added a button hole to the front before I sewed up the casing so that I could still include the tie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0_RUdRGgHTD-JuAeMI_WT9MUm9aGunhrzD-VK9sfsy88kKC0FAqUlKbppqWver-3MDTdjPTHI9_BQU-OU3qvTWGtlthVVktrOGaAe9G-gWUx5XXYItoI3MCJlAxh52gZIdXaxMpAzsg/s1600/2014-08-25_03(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0_RUdRGgHTD-JuAeMI_WT9MUm9aGunhrzD-VK9sfsy88kKC0FAqUlKbppqWver-3MDTdjPTHI9_BQU-OU3qvTWGtlthVVktrOGaAe9G-gWUx5XXYItoI3MCJlAxh52gZIdXaxMpAzsg/s1600/2014-08-25_03(1).jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I had some trouble with the underarm insets (a quick look at <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/Patterns/63779">patternreview.com</a> showed me that I wasn't the only one!). The instructions would have you sew up the side seam and then the armbands and then you're supposed to somehow fit the gusset neatly in place. Doesn't work. I tried three times! Didn't help that the notches for the gusset are not correct and the armbands are too long. So instead of sewing the side seams all the way, sew only to the circle so that when you add the armbands they're enclosed in the seam. Trim off the excess armbands and ignore the notches on the insert. Once I did that it was easy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfbWhoB51Pb17S_NbZTa6C2XKz6lguLrBt0McaGelR7p9gtlDGIO7AEagBwGvk0Ge3kMeyhQO9GiMVll8O0qmd9YTRa8ZYZ25JUOegZtnm3c4-e1kMO9JvqtxxEEoX2ZSGaTsLAJWXHU/s1600/2014-08-25_06(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfbWhoB51Pb17S_NbZTa6C2XKz6lguLrBt0McaGelR7p9gtlDGIO7AEagBwGvk0Ge3kMeyhQO9GiMVll8O0qmd9YTRa8ZYZ25JUOegZtnm3c4-e1kMO9JvqtxxEEoX2ZSGaTsLAJWXHU/s1600/2014-08-25_06(1).jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Overall, I like it. I'd like to make it again but with some changes:<br />
- lower the neckline slightly<br />
- add an inch or so to the bodice so the ties hit me lower on the body<br />
- use a fabric with even more drape<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XiL11ZfHs8wQHwJY2lzqVILyXPdnQR1A7fyyJGPp7deSZlxVKp1iu2MjMLgkRtsxXzrhzU223D2hrDxwMWSXjoMvSHwyX8bzsNXsyWLhqBt8u8Ecgccm4ufn4QFzOCSw5XNoKX8B5js/s1600/2014-08-22_06(1).gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XiL11ZfHs8wQHwJY2lzqVILyXPdnQR1A7fyyJGPp7deSZlxVKp1iu2MjMLgkRtsxXzrhzU223D2hrDxwMWSXjoMvSHwyX8bzsNXsyWLhqBt8u8Ecgccm4ufn4QFzOCSw5XNoKX8B5js/s1600/2014-08-22_06(1).gif" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9SR39TA0roioXtnUc1STbVQ_JbpgwuY6EIoHIYz_UhNuOtCSIg1MVTA0NU-wg-hWW4IzmUfPeEbJR4NXldgbmz2RmaW1IuQGtX7Uk2XsFvJci7ZwiCgFF4yZdTy5KOYPS-KiAlgVQkk/s1600/2014-08-22_04(1).gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9SR39TA0roioXtnUc1STbVQ_JbpgwuY6EIoHIYz_UhNuOtCSIg1MVTA0NU-wg-hWW4IzmUfPeEbJR4NXldgbmz2RmaW1IuQGtX7Uk2XsFvJci7ZwiCgFF4yZdTy5KOYPS-KiAlgVQkk/s1600/2014-08-22_04(1).gif" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-66782980799697146052014-06-11T11:16:00.000-04:002014-06-12T07:58:21.462-04:00Glow in the Dark Party outfitWe are having a glow in the dark party for J's 9th birthday so have been hunting for all sorts of things that actually glow and others that are "UV reactive". Who knew blacklights were so much fun?? Well, probably lots of people but we've just discovered it and have been having a blast :)<br />
<br />
We found this super bright neon twill on clearance a few weeks ago so I bought enough to make clutches for party favours and an outfit for each of my girls. It's bright under normal light but under blacklight it's awesome. Just to add to the awesomeness, I used glow in the dark thread for the topstitching. It's not super noticiable in full dark but the blacklight really brings it out. <br />
<br />
The tank is a modified Oliver and S pinwheel dress. I moved the pattern piece over at angle, keeping the neckline the same but taking a pie shaped cut out of the width to make it less of an A-line shape. I found the dress to be fairly short on my tall skinny girls when I made it the last time so I cut it full length (this is size 10) just smoothing out the bottom to be gently curved as I was leaving off the flounce.<br />
<br />
The skirt is made from an old tutorial by From an Igloo (it was called the Tea Party Skirt) but the link seems to be broken. I've made it before <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2010/06/birthday-skirt.html">here </a>and <a href="http://mel-mel-o.blogspot.ca/2013/12/christmas-sewing.html">here</a>. J. loves it. Give her a few tea party skirts, a couple of circle skirts and some t-shirts and she's happy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZOxDaY3Nl42DBrzFulCMVZysjo1AoONCFXKt17E84gFW-vBMrTxBEiJIJakxryVTyv5izNIVHzJduVE__EDxs3Ck5AesKElr-mYM0wY9cGYiyc31WcypmE9upwvKrj8Vac5CM9bevCA/s1600/2014-06-09_01%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJZOxDaY3Nl42DBrzFulCMVZysjo1AoONCFXKt17E84gFW-vBMrTxBEiJIJakxryVTyv5izNIVHzJduVE__EDxs3Ck5AesKElr-mYM0wY9cGYiyc31WcypmE9upwvKrj8Vac5CM9bevCA/s1600/2014-06-09_01%25281%2529.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The clutch is just three rectangles, a strap and a button. I wanted it to be simple to mass produce and easy enough for J. to help out with. She's been stitching up the sides and I'm going to get her to add the buttons, too. We'll use them as loot bags for the girls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwHjjwAQRb6IF6jdbMgONOKrnB5C-Tpp07zKNoH2SKUfx0YpkPnbxp4DYdmVBIH_pqI8sIb-B7YKgiEqkpk55qzWdeYXeEQcbWc-A7cGjc0atwMmdNN7sEQoR01anJEDXFdI4R-i-1-Y/s1600/2014-06-09_02%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwHjjwAQRb6IF6jdbMgONOKrnB5C-Tpp07zKNoH2SKUfx0YpkPnbxp4DYdmVBIH_pqI8sIb-B7YKgiEqkpk55qzWdeYXeEQcbWc-A7cGjc0atwMmdNN7sEQoR01anJEDXFdI4R-i-1-Y/s1600/2014-06-09_02%25281%2529.jpg" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The other thing I made for the girls to take home is a sleep mask. We were initially going to make headbands but the neon orange fabric we bought doesn't "glow" under blacklight. It's bright alright but just doesn't have the right punch for the party. So for $1.83, I splurged on 50cm of this super fuzzy minky-type stuff. It's lovely and soft but I should've worn a face mask when making these; I was coughing up neon fluff for hours afterwards! Again, just a self-drafted pattern -- two layers of minky, one layer cut from an old white t-shirt and a length of fold over elastic. I used the FOE just because it is super soft and stretchy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wMECbIfwYAAm3FnDKtWHgnxnikZPY1d-5MArxhH7Zy4482SPCjxeWJreaywpNRlu0ehSyxFifJBS1tdrfRVaYHoGHO_tgoYtrtUr7qogCCYLppd1AExLMze4M43SgWcexeHw8i6TcLs/s1600/2014-06-09_04%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wMECbIfwYAAm3FnDKtWHgnxnikZPY1d-5MArxhH7Zy4482SPCjxeWJreaywpNRlu0ehSyxFifJBS1tdrfRVaYHoGHO_tgoYtrtUr7qogCCYLppd1AExLMze4M43SgWcexeHw8i6TcLs/s1600/2014-06-09_04%25281%2529.jpg" height="396" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's everything under just blacklight. Cool, hey?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYad3WXqEGlSmMKuVG0RRprIoplggJxRD97GP4PiwhPkRiUspmJBkTLFFkdivZ2gKwn426sK9ZoBQrPtS_3Cs2BzQJNv1uo2CeAi1oor7IhnVUcaNJ2yQ6fAT5k_FV-Qc2fezQofUwMg/s1600/2014-06-09_07%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYad3WXqEGlSmMKuVG0RRprIoplggJxRD97GP4PiwhPkRiUspmJBkTLFFkdivZ2gKwn426sK9ZoBQrPtS_3Cs2BzQJNv1uo2CeAi1oor7IhnVUcaNJ2yQ6fAT5k_FV-Qc2fezQofUwMg/s1600/2014-06-09_07%25281%2529.jpg" height="640" width="452" /></a></div>
<br />
The girls have been wearing their sleep masks to sleep at night since I finished them. And K. even wore it one day after school. She's a kid that needs her sleep. She'd been up late the night before and had a tiff with J. so took herself off to her room. When I went to find her, she'd fallen asleep :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsQolus2-xaV0FJDc1G2MfQ-80zHoR4hwVfH4xHbsJtHsJPoodQEY5a0Ej_bRo0YDJIjsu-42bsyBfaozrMk3cWIIK-1n5s8U7aK1OhmisPk_-Bs_uI-4Q-LJbTp_PTcG7lv-bw6a3Mc/s1600/2014-06-09_08%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsQolus2-xaV0FJDc1G2MfQ-80zHoR4hwVfH4xHbsJtHsJPoodQEY5a0Ej_bRo0YDJIjsu-42bsyBfaozrMk3cWIIK-1n5s8U7aK1OhmisPk_-Bs_uI-4Q-LJbTp_PTcG7lv-bw6a3Mc/s1600/2014-06-09_08%25281%2529.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-36099033053212463072014-04-16T08:56:00.001-04:002014-04-16T09:00:34.651-04:00Denim Kelly SkirtMy local fabric shop is renovating --actually they're demolishing then rebuilding -- so as of the end of June, and for an indefinite period of time, I will have to travel much farther to shop. This store doesn't generally have a great selection of fabric but I do go their fairly often for zippers, thread, etc. The thought of being without it makes me slightly anxious but, in the meantime, they do have some good deals. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocVrr22qZqqsCLgrYfi6MNBJCv4nuQn97yOG_9EeAC_jLhJCrkkK5-ltDsEQqpQZD1HDFFA3VBARLzoYc60ykBBpH8eVefVx5qFrnl5AxKYqXovB72ZdxlXdCSGiJvPUka6q2pL58NbA/s1600/2014-04-15_05%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocVrr22qZqqsCLgrYfi6MNBJCv4nuQn97yOG_9EeAC_jLhJCrkkK5-ltDsEQqpQZD1HDFFA3VBARLzoYc60ykBBpH8eVefVx5qFrnl5AxKYqXovB72ZdxlXdCSGiJvPUka6q2pL58NbA/s1600/2014-04-15_05%25281%2529.gif" height="640" width="556" /></a></div>
<br />
I made this skirt from <i>part </i>of a $5.00 remnant. It's a nice colour and weight and, once I put a denim needle on my machine, it was really easy to work with. The only problem is that it's stiff. Really stiff. I knew that and I prewashed (as always) but it was still super stiff. I debated about making vogue 1247 or a grainline moss but really wanted to try the <a href="http://megannielsen.com/products/kelly-skirt-sewing-pattern">Kelly skirt</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHRCe9UU6bagwIqzxF8kfB9YTyrWo9ow2uc8isLvNeUUkPwnJ7YTcato71i14y_wbceXZdxTsz4gxDNZ-3fh58yl9I6E6vhyATZR2if8X069d9hlnrMZn0bjWOxyHfHZRiFwxUmaSD50/s1600/2014-04-15_06%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHRCe9UU6bagwIqzxF8kfB9YTyrWo9ow2uc8isLvNeUUkPwnJ7YTcato71i14y_wbceXZdxTsz4gxDNZ-3fh58yl9I6E6vhyATZR2if8X069d9hlnrMZn0bjWOxyHfHZRiFwxUmaSD50/s1600/2014-04-15_06%25281%2529.gif" height="640" width="516" /></a></div>
<br />
I made it during KCW last week and if my kids had been into it, I would have made a<a href="http://oliverands.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=SRCH"> hopscotch skirt</a> or two to coordinate -- the theme was mini-me after all! -- but, according to both my daughters, putting buttons down the front of a skirt makes it completely unappealing. So too bad for them, I sewed for myself when everyone else was sewing for their kids!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSx2oFWyuhOCPqKojxDkwkHgVCeZMAckGiVRSVes5wZqDiDUOTVSBpOh63en39C48pBCEgzWs0N7k_XC3K97YI0UqI_qxveZ_zOaLg_lVuJ1BedFWhMYRrOqq9V8qO2eYuMugH3F1NSLM/s1600/2014-04-15_03%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSx2oFWyuhOCPqKojxDkwkHgVCeZMAckGiVRSVes5wZqDiDUOTVSBpOh63en39C48pBCEgzWs0N7k_XC3K97YI0UqI_qxveZ_zOaLg_lVuJ1BedFWhMYRrOqq9V8qO2eYuMugH3F1NSLM/s1600/2014-04-15_03%25281%2529.gif" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Considering I only had half hour blocks of time to work on this, it came together quickly and it's super comfortable. I'm not sure it's actually "universally flattering" despite it's reviews. Maybe it's this fabric. Or maybe it's the extra 10lbs I gained since I hurt my back. Or maybe it's the strange way the pleats sit (especially at the back). I'm really hoping the pleats calm down after a few washes/wears because right now they're pretty darn unflattering. The only changes I made were to extend the waistband 1" add 1/4" to each of the front and back pieces.<br />
<br />
I think if I were to make it again, I would copy the way the placket is done on the hopscotch skirt (the placket goes all the way to top instead of stopping at the waistband). I'm pretty sure I've got my buttons in the right place but waistband doesn't lay properly when I'm wearing it.<br />
<br />
Pattern: Megan Nielsen Kelly Skirt $9.60<br />
Fabric: ~$5.00<br />
Buttons: Stash<br />
<br />
Total: $14.60Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-6710840633705068342014-01-29T12:17:00.001-05:002014-01-29T12:17:32.511-05:00KCW: Croquet in Black and WhiteK. (age 5) insisted before Christmas that her favourite colour was no longer purple but black (!!) so when <a href="http://www.formandfabric.com/">Form and Fabric</a> had their free shipping promotion, I let her pick a couple of prints. I think she has a good eye! This is <a href="http://www.formandfabric.com/stylized-flower-black/">Stylized Flower</a> and <a href="http://www.formandfabric.com/damask-black-white/">Damask</a> from the Shades of Black line. <br />
<br />
I made size 7 because this kid is growing like crazy and I want it to fit in the spring, too. I'm going to try to save it for a trip we're taking but that might be tough because she knows I've been working on it and is always excited to get a new dress. <br />
<br />
She's having a tough time choosing a button so the back is not finished yet. (our collection is so huge now we *almost* have too many choices!) And the skirt looks strange because the elastic is all bunched at the back but I didn't have the patience to fiddle with it today. <br />
<br />
It might be the only project I get time to work in in Kids Clothing Week -- we have a case of lice in the house so I've been spending lots of extra time cleaning and washing hair, etc. Yuck.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5bPgzAwEVFQ0zncF6OsM-XO-jQVuEVq6jD_ikCpCRe4QGWnLV7HuyNQnv3hSSigLDB6Fr7b5UtXD6F58GrJAezS7xZ3gbq39dAbkopDQ85RyY-CPkMA8SsBSZ4Jj0EYJwB4yMeO0-gg/s1600/2014-01-29_01.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5bPgzAwEVFQ0zncF6OsM-XO-jQVuEVq6jD_ikCpCRe4QGWnLV7HuyNQnv3hSSigLDB6Fr7b5UtXD6F58GrJAezS7xZ3gbq39dAbkopDQ85RyY-CPkMA8SsBSZ4Jj0EYJwB4yMeO0-gg/s1600/2014-01-29_01.gif" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />
Fabric:<br />
Stylized Flower 1 yard (with just scraps left over, yay!) $7.56<br />
Damask 1/2 yard $3.78<br />
<br />
Notions:<br />
elastic: $1<br />
button: stash<br />
<br />
Pattern:<br />
Croquet Dress: $11.95<br />
<br />
Total: $24.29Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8471085394238910352.post-32511196369024735182014-01-22T11:01:00.001-05:002014-01-22T11:02:08.071-05:00Valentines 2+2 BlouseIn December, <a href="http://www.formandfabric.com/">Form and Fabric</a> had a free shipping promotion. Usually when online companies advertise **FREE SHIPPING!!** the small print says something like <span style="font-size: xx-small;">"in the continental United States" </span>and it still costs an arm and a leg to ship to Canada but that wasn't the case with this sale. So I placed an order. Then I placed another order. Then I sent an email asking if I could purchase an extra 1/2 yard of one of the fabrics (sale items were only available in one yard increments but this was the last yard and a half of that fabric) and they sent it to me without charging me for it. So all in all, I was a very happy camper. <br />
<br />
The fabric is <a href="http://www.formandfabric.com/lacy-heart-diamond-white/">Lacy Heart</a> from the Flirt Collection and I love it. It's cutesy but subtle and perfect for Valentines Day and hopefully beyond. The pattern is the <a href="http://oliverands.com/product/OLV-OS006TT.html">2+2 Blouse</a> from Oliver and S and I think it was one of the first of their patterns that I bought. I've made the skirt a couple of times but never the top. I'm happy with how it turned out but had a couple of head-scratching moments along the way. The instructions are good but the newer O+S patterns do a bit more hand-holding (or maybe it was just me!). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBc-ngTRv5T0v6fp2653BgZJDxwTHbDMg1MaoYLnuz89ysK-TJdTYzLkOau9v0hoAljTnQ4mBe6M72AoqyzdNfDRJJiJQ_Tmttw42r4jAC9tgONJ9UYJGtKN1WeRq5xb6UEmBUkmDerKs/s1600/2014-01-22_06.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBc-ngTRv5T0v6fp2653BgZJDxwTHbDMg1MaoYLnuz89ysK-TJdTYzLkOau9v0hoAljTnQ4mBe6M72AoqyzdNfDRJJiJQ_Tmttw42r4jAC9tgONJ9UYJGtKN1WeRq5xb6UEmBUkmDerKs/s1600/2014-01-22_06.gif" height="640" width="616" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">I also had some confusion over the sleeve shape and didn't see any discussions in the <a href="http://oliverands.com/forums/">forum</a> about it. So I went to Nicole's blog (</span><a href="http://fiveandcounting-motherof5.blogspot.ca/" style="text-align: center;">fiveandcounting-motherof5</a><span style="text-align: center;">) and of course, being the fantastic and generous sewing resource that she is, she had an explanation and pictures. (I guess I have an early print of the pattern and there is a triangle cut out to reduce bulk at the seams). Thanks Nicole!</span><br />
<br />
It's a size 6 with some extra length. I only used one button and stitched up the rest of the back placket because my girl likes the back of her clothes to be free from any lumpy bits (!). I think (I hope) that it will still fit over her head. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnVqDNSqsNHW9iIe9UOTEPX1h1mB8cHTTjd5Aunq-daWUU-oEaLOmDts3NzsVYOhFwI4xSQGazNo1VIFktSvLLozYvVX8T-K6E3Aqo3EgRtj5MJHsQ7LkUcWdNXMicfp36Dhr_IzYs2c/s1600/2014-01-22_08.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnVqDNSqsNHW9iIe9UOTEPX1h1mB8cHTTjd5Aunq-daWUU-oEaLOmDts3NzsVYOhFwI4xSQGazNo1VIFktSvLLozYvVX8T-K6E3Aqo3EgRtj5MJHsQ7LkUcWdNXMicfp36Dhr_IzYs2c/s1600/2014-01-22_08.gif" height="396" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Pattern:<br />
2+2 Blouse, used before: $0 (cost per use about $6)<br />
<br />
Fabric:<br />
Lacy Heart, used just over a yard: $8.20 US<br />
blue polka dots: stash<br />
<br />
Notions:<br />
button: stash!<br />
<br />Melhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12415111477138449915noreply@blogger.com2