Love Notions Encore Skirt...

 After finishing my first stash project of the year, I decided to make an "outfit".  I still had plenty of fabric left so I decided to make a skirt.  Here is the line drawing of the skirt that I chose:

The Encore Skirt has lots of options.  I could not decide between the pencil skirt and the a-line skirt so I printed both patterns so I could measure.  I watched the Lifting Pins and Needles video on making this skirt in a knit and I may very well copy her yoga waistband because I can.  

After much debating, I decided to go with the a-line skirt.  I am hoping that it will be a bit more flattering at this point in my life.  I also decided to go ahead with the yoga waistband.  Here is a picture of the finished skirt:

Here is the yoga style waistband:

I really like this skirt.  This version was super easy to make with the yoga waistband.  I will definitely make a woven project as I am positive that there is fabric in the stash that would work.

This project and the sweater project are showing me the limations of my sewing machine.  My sewing machine barely had enough strength to go through the layers of this fabric.  I will say that I broke at least one needle and yes, I was using the correct size needle.  I suppose it possible that the machine needs a visit to the technician.

Happy Stitching!

Seamwork Milo...

 When I moved part of my stash in the fall, I found some wonderful long forgotten fabrics.  This is part of the issue with a large stash.  You just remember can not what is in there or how much is there.  I found a lovely black ponte (I think).  If is definitely a polyester or a polyester mix.  I am not really good with determining blends.

Then, I decided to join the two month long stash contest at Pattern Review.  Honestly I do not sew very fast anymore, so I do not plan on being the big winner using up the stash.  Any stash that I use verses purchasing more stash is win.

After finishing the final project (1st sewn item for 2026) of 2025, I decided to make a cardigan figuring it would be a great addition to my next travel wardrobe.  If I had started that project on/after January 1, it would have qualified but alas I did not.  Here is my first official stash project:

I am making Version 2 in a size 16.  I did change the sleeve a little bit to make sure there is enough space for my bicep.  Here you can see the change made to the pattern piece:

Even though it looks a bit funny, the change to the bicep has been working well.

 Construction:

1.  Pay close attention to the front bands.  It is very easy to get them mixed up.  

2.  For the size 16, the sleeve notches did not match.  I was able to get the sleeve to work.

Otherwise, this is a fast and easy project.  Even though it took me many days to complete.  I found some horn buttons on Amazon that were perfect:

Here is the finished garment:

Overall this is nice pattern and I would recommend it.  I will happily wear it.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Polo Shirt

 This top makes me smile.  I know it is the colors.

This is the Colorblock Rib Knit Polo Sweater by Akris Punto.  Price tag: $730.00.  Details:  spread collar, split V front, long sleeves, slim fit, pullover style, wool, color blocked collar and front band, dry clean. 

I know the perfect for this top:

This is the Frankie Polo by Love Notions.  You get lots of options with this one and the collar and placket can be done is wovens.  It might be a chance to use up those smaller bits of fabric you can not bring yourself to toss.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Sewing!

New Itch to Stitch...Shimla Jacket pdf Pattern

 Fitted jackets are making there way back into fashion.  Here is the latest line drawings from Itch to Stitch:

This is the Shimla Jacket pdf pattern.  The pattern includes:

• Two collar options: a clean stand-up collar or a pleated collar
• Optional ruffles at the pocket flaps and sleeve cuffs, so you can choose a classic or more playful look
• Front flap pockets
• Two-piece sleeves with cuffs
• Fully lined construction for a beautifully finished interior
• Multiple cup sizes and 22 women’s sizes from 00 to 40
• Designed for non-stretch woven fabrics

Your fabric choses will make a big difference in how this jacket looks.  Be sure to check out the testers' versions.

The Shimla Jacket pdf pattern will be 20% off through February 9, 2026 11:59pm Mountain Time.  All purchasing discounts apply. So, it is a good time to pick up other patterns you have been eyeing.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made through the links on this page will result in a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...A-Line Skirt

 I love the idea of the following skirt:

This is the Fairfax Skirt in Faux Leather from J Crew.  Price tag: $178.00.  Details:  sits at waist, length 18 1/2-inches, falls to knee.  Model is 5'9".  

The J Crew website does not give much information about the skirt except what I gave.  No cleaning information.  I did find the perfect skirt pattern:

This is the Bella Loves Pattern Dulce pdf pattern.  It is a perfect example of the inspiration skirt.  I am not familar with this pattern company but I would certainly consider it if I did not have a similar pattern in my pattern stash.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching