McCall's Top Pattern...

 I do not know when the McCall's Fall 2022 pattern release was but I was just looking at it and found this top:

This is McCall's 8343.  It is a collection of pullover tops meant for french terry, sweatshirt fleece, fleece, sweater knits.  I actually like all four views.  Here is the line drawings:

I can see this done in mixed media - knit and woven.  This can be done when the neckline is large enough for your head to go through.  It looks to me that all four views have a large enough neckline for that.  It might be troublesome with the View D and the hood.  You would not know unless you tried.  I might add this to my pattern collection.

Happy Stitching!

Accidents Happen...

 Sometimes, life has a way of slowing down and that is exactly what has happened to me.  On Thanksgiving Day, I went to visit my Dad.  Going into the facility, I tripped/stumbled and fell on my knee on concrete.  As I sat in the on the wet concrete, I knew I had hurt myself.  I proceed to hobble into the facility to see my Dad.  I did not stay long because I could feel my leg swelling.  He knew I fell but I kept a brave face until I left his room.  Then, my son almost had to carry me out.  I went home and went straight to bed.  The next morning I went straight to the hospital urgent care.  Hurting yourself on holidays is bad because so many services are closed.  If this had not been a holiday, I could have gone to a orthopaedic urgent care which would have been a better choice.  However, the hospital urgent care took good care me.  X-rays confirmed that I had indeed hurt myself -- fractured knee cap.  Ugh!  Into a splint I went until I could get an appointment with orthopaedic doctor.  Of course, internet searches are a miserable way to learn about this type of fracture because it is easy to think the worst.

Fast forward five days, I saw the doctor.  Since I had been splinted since the x-rays were taken and the x-rays showed that the bone had not separated, I would not need surgery.  I am sure you know fractures still need time to heal.  At least 12 weeks is what the doctor said.  So, my leg is still is a splint but a different kind of splint.  It will allow movement when the doctor decides that I get a little along with some physical therapy.  I am looking forward to moving my knee again but not really looking forward to the physical therapy.  In the meantime, I am walking with a straight leg and a cane which slow going and very tiring.  So, I do as little as I can get by with.  Not that I have not pushed it because I have.  Pushing boundaries is part of life. 

So, there will be no more sewing this year.  All the projects that I had intended to finished year or at least get started will not be done.  I am going to attempt to organize the projects so that I can get them accomplished in 2023.

I will try to continue posting inspiration posts as I see sometime interesting.  In the meantime, I am sitting in my chair with my leg under a pillow trying to find things to do.  I am taking advantage of my Craftsy account, watching knitting videos, and practicing knitting.  Trying not to purchase too much stuff because it is very easy to go on a shopping spree when there is nothing else to do.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Turtleneck Top

 This top intrigued me.  It definitely has a casual vibe to it.

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Mixed Media Drop-Shoulder Turtleneck Top. Price tag: $998.00.  Details:  turtleneck, long sleeves, drop shoulders, oversized fit, pullover style, approximately 30-inches from shoulder to hem.  For reference, the model is 5'10".  This can be found on the Neiman Marcus website.

I know this is another over sized top but you really need to check out the "turtleneck".  It reminds me of cozy sweatshirt with a bit style.  When I saw the neckline, I had all kinds of ideas on create the top with a similar neckline.  

I think the Cowl Top pattern by Loes Hinse Designs would be perfect.  The pattern is available on the casual elegance website.  Replace the cowl with a handknit neckband.  Finding a cozy fabric should not be too hard.

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful. 

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Patchwork Dress

This week's inspiration is rather interesting and lends itself toward using large leftovers pieces of fabric or not.  It would definitely take some planning but is certainly doable.

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Patchwork Print Twist Front  Maxi Dress.  Price tag: $1698.00.  Details: Jeweled neckline, sleeveless, ruched back, ankle length, a-line silhouette, invisible zipper, polyester, fully lined, 51-inches long.  For reference, the model is 5'10".  It can be found on Neiman Marcus website.

This is such a simple dress.  If you have a fitted shift dress meant for wovens, you are almost there.  I would be very tempted to make the "twist" into a belt.  In the past when I had this type of a twist, it closed with velcro. As for the skirt of the dress, I would decide on the length and decide how wide to make the skirt.  Then, I would change the skirt portion of the shift dress by cutting the pattern at regulra intervals and spread until I have the wide that I wanted.

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

New Jacket Pattern...Itch To Stitch Winterthur Jacket Jacket

Itch to Stitch has created a classic jacket pattern and you get two views.  It is the Winterthur Jacket pdf pattern.  Check out the line drawings:

This pattern is perfect for year around depending on the fabric that you have chosen.  Here is the list of features:

• Options for cup sizes
• Options for collar and three-piece hood
• Fully lined
• Princess seams to shoulders
• Back Yoke
• Cinched waist by drawn string on the inside
• Front patch and optional chest pockets
• Zipper front with button flap
• Two-piece long sleeve with adjustable button hem
• Designed for non-stretch fabric

This pattern is on sale through November 23, 2022.  All discounts apply.  So be sure to look around a bit at all the fabulous patterns and check out the blog post to see the fabulous tester versions of this jacket.

I am an affiliate of Itch to Stitch.  Any purchases made through my links will result in a small commission to me at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

Quilts?

 Long ago, I started a quilt for my son. He picked fabric not that I think he was particularly interested and the pattern.  It just so happened to be a quilt pattern that I loved but I did not love it by the time I had finished the quilt top.  I really intended to get it ready for the long arm quilter in Pittsburgh but instead moved across country.  This year I decided to clear space on my fabric shelves by finishing up quilts.  

In August, I finished a quilt that just needed the binding.  You can see it here.  Finishing that quilt really motivated me.  A queen size quilt really takes up a lot of space.  On to the next project, the quilt for my son.  I could not find any posts that I blogged on working on the quilt but it must have been in the spring of 2016.  The long arm quilter here in Arkansas just called to say it was ready.  Here's a glimpse:

All I need to do now is the binding.  Maybe this will be the year that I will have two finished quilts.  My goal is for this to be finished before New Year's Day or better yet Christmas.  I am fairly excited about this being so close to being finished.

Happy Stitching!

Stirrup Pant Pattern...

 Last week, I have an inspiration post on Stirrup Leggings.  As I stated in the post, I really liked wearing the stirrup pants in the 90s.  I did find a great legging pattern with stirrups but I kept looking for myself.  I finally found this pattern:

 It is not as skinny as leggings but still skinny.  This is a little closer to something that I would wear.  So ordered this OOP pattern.  I now need to figure out what fabric would be best.  It states 2-way stretch fabric with stretch content and neoprene.  I am not sure about neoprene but it seems to be a scuba type fabric.  

The other interesting thing about this pattern is there is no sizing information.  I mean zero.  What do those size numbers mean?  Now, I am starting to think that I over paid for this pattern.   I will figure it out.  Ugh! I just pulled the pattern out and it is a petite.  I am not really a petite but I think I can work with this pattern any way.  So much to paying close attention to the pattern.  The little pink bubble on the pattern does state that it is Miss Petite.  I just  failed to notice.

Off to figure out sizing.

Happy Stitching!

 

 

Book Review...The Act of Sewing

 I found The Act of Sewing by Sonya Philip recently at my local library.  I am familiar with the author as she is the designer behind 100 Acts of Sewing Patterns which is a basic sewing pattern line.  Look it up.  

The book starts like many sewing books do now listing tools and techniques, discussing terminology, fabric, working with patterns, seam finishes, hems, and finishing curved edges.  All necessary for beginning sewing. Next, we hop into the section where the gold is.  The gold being the patterns.  This book contains four patterns - top, pants, skirt, and shirt.  This chapter provides the instructions for each pattern.  There is suggestions on making a muslin for each pattern.

The next section is where things start getting interesting - shorten/length, make wider/narrower, shoulder adjustments, bust/chest adjustments, and rise/seat adjustments.  Making the muslin can help you  determine what changes are needed to fit the pattern the way you want it to fit.  Next, discussion of various neckline styles and how to achieve them; different types of closures and facings; sleeves changes and how to achieve them; how to change the body of the garment by adding yokes and button plackets; waistband changes; different types of hems; adding embellishments such as gathers, pleats, tucks, ruching, and pockets.

The next section is all about combining the patterns to make a dress, a tunic, a tie-front shirt, and a jumpsuit.

All in all, this is a great book.  I do think that a beginner could do something with the patterns in this book and make pattern changes as well.  The book is a good investment if you are willing to try the patterns. 

I have added it to my library.  I think next year I will be playing a lot with the patterns in this book.  I just need to check the stash and see what might be appropriate there.  If I do not much in the stash and that is possible, then I was start looking for fabric that would be appropriate for the various projects.  

I am thinking of a lot of possibilities especially with playing with necklines.  As much as I like getting new patterns, it is very frustrating to do the fitting on each individual pattern.  It is very freeing to use the same pattern over and over.  I must have made five tank tops using the fabrics-store tank pattern and it was free.  

Hope I have given you food for thought.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Stirrup Leggings

 This is definitely an update from the 90s.  I loved wearing stirrup pants but these are a leggings version:

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Compact Rib Jersey Stirrup Legging. Price tag: $698.00.  Details: Form fitted through thigh and leg, pull-on elastic waistband, attached stirrup, pintuck seam from and back, high rise, full length, 95% polyamide and 5% elastane.  Fit: S- 28-inch inseam (without stirrup), 8 1/2-inch leg opening; M- 28-inch inseam (without stirrup), 9-inch leg opening; L -28-inch inseam (without stirrup), 9 1/2-inch leg opening.

This would be such a versatile piece to have in your wardrobe.  I did find a pattern for this one:

This is Jalie 2920.  This pattern contains the stirrup legging but it does not have the pintuck detailing on the front and back.  You would need to figure that part out.  

Inspiration...Lux Casual Pants and Jacket

 This is little outfit is all about comfort.  Check it out:

 This is the Lafayette 148 New York Cotton French Terry Zip-Front Hoodie ($598.00) and French Terry Cadman Jogger ($398.00).  Details:  Hoodie - relaxed fit, draw-string hood, dropped shoulders, long sleeves, 2-way zip closure,  raw edge seam detail, high-low hem, slit sides, banded hem, hip length, 100% cotton. Sizing: S- 44" bust, 24 1/2-inches long; M- 45 1/2-inch bust, 25-inches long; L- 49-inches bust,  25 1/2-inches long; back covers the backside. Jogger - relaxed fit through thigh, tapered leg; pull-on, elastic waistband; front slant and back patch pockets; slit hem; ankle length; 100% cotton; leg opening: S- 12-inch, M- 12 1/2-inches, L- 13-inches.

No pattern selections today.  Seems every pattern company has a jogger pant pattern.  As for the hoodie, I would look for an old Kwik Sew pattern and change the hem.  

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Pencil Skirt

 More inspiration from Ann Taylor:

This is the Ann Taylor Gingham Pencil Skirt.  Price tag: $98.00.  Details:  24 1 /2-inches long, back vent, elastic waist, softly fitted (not sure exactly what that means), knit fabric.

This appears to be the same fabric from the previous inspiration post.  Reminds me very much of the 80s/90s when we would purchase 5 yards of fabric to make a jacket, pants, and a skirt.  

Here is the perfect pattern to duplicate this look:

This is Pamela's Patterns - The Magic Pencil Skirt.  It does not have a back kick pleat but it is easy to add one.   I have made this a couple of times and really like it.  I think it is time to a couple more to the wardrobe for fall/winter.  To see my past versions, search Magic Pencil Skirt and you should see the various posts on the pattern.

Happy Stitching!

Where Have I Been...

 ...and what I have been doing?

I have a lot going on and my attention span seems to be small.  I have a little bit more freedom these days as I have hired help to assist with my parents.  I still visit them on a daily basis but having freedom during the day is awesome.  After 3 1/2 years of having very little time to myself, I am now getting my house caught up and organized.  My husband has done a great job helping but he just does the basics.  

Here is my current list of projects:

1.  Organize sewing room.  Folks this room has not really been cleaned up in 3 or 4 years.  Straightened occasionally so it can be used for other purposes.  It needs a really good clean and re-organized.  The room is overwhelming and I find that about 30 minutes at a time is all I can stand to be in there.  I will get it done.

2.  Slipcovers for loveseat, chair, and ottoman.  I have had the fabric for a couple of years.  Now is as good a time as any to really get this started.  I will start with making the piping.  I realized pretty quickly that I did not purchase enough cording.  For what ever reason, I thought 80 yards would be good for the whole project but when I started measuring one pillow will take about 5 or 6 yards and I have not even thought about determining how much will be needed for the cover.  I will order another roll or two of the piping.  I have made patterns for two of the pillows on the chair.  

3.  I have a finished quilt top that I have decided to finish this year.  I will be taking it to the long-arm quilter next week and I am thrilled.  Hopefully, I can get the binding created while she has the quilt and I will be ready to stitch the binding into place.  I generally finish the binding by hand but it is a king size quilt.  I guess I will make the decision when it comes time to apply the binding. Machine binding is always faster but I really like the look of the hand finished binding.

4.  I do prefer making clothing over all other types of sewing.  I was going to fit a t-shirt pattern but when I starting taking cool weather clothes out of storage I realized that I do not really need any t-shirts but I do need a few skirts/tops and a couple of dresses.  I have also gotten to where I prefer a woven top.  With that said, I will be making two button-down shirts.  I might even take the same pattern and make a dress.  Fabric is all from the stash.  Take about making a hole in the stash shelves.  Between the clothes and the quilt that is somewhere between 12 and 15 yards of fabric gone.  I do want to work on fitting some pant patterns.  

5.  I am working on redecorating some.  My living room/family room has always bothered me in this house.  I can not seem to get it right.  It is an odd room - kinda of open floor plan but not quite.  There are large arches going into the kitchen area, the dining room, and front entry.  Large portions of the furniture must be floating and I am okay with floating furniture. Honestly, it feels like I have too much furniture or maybe it is just not the right kind of furniture.  I know I will get it figured out even if I have to hire someone to help. 

6.  We changed the way we eat a couple of years ago and I have been collecting recipes.  I have finally decided to organize everything so I am not constantly reprinting a recipes to use.  This is kinda like the sewing room - overwhelming.  This task does not get much more than 30 minutes at a time just like the sewing room.  I might work on it more than once a day.  Small bursts seems to make it easier to think about.

Well, that is a little that has been going on.  There is always something new to add to the mix.  I am hoping to get the quilt, the sewing room, the recipes, and maybe some of the slipcovers done by the end of the year.  The redecorating will most likely take more time as I look for furniture to make it feel like home.  I am hoping that some things can be repurposed from other areas rather than just purchasing new/old stuff.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Pants

 Today's inspiration is pants that are full of trends - high-waist, plaid, tapered leg, relaxed fit.  Here you go:

This is the Ann Taylor - The Gingham Tapered Pull On Pant. Price tag: $109.00.  Details:  elastic waist, tapered fit, high waist 1/2-inch to 1-inch below natural waist, hits at ankle 27-inch inseam with 14-inch leg opening.  It does not actually say but I think these are knit pants.

I have not really seen this particular pant styling since the 90s.  I guess that is kinda retro.

Sadly, I was not able to find a pant pattern similar to the inspiration photo.  Simplicity 9376 is a trouser style but not really close enough.  Although I have this pattern and would probably use it.   McCall's had a couple of pattern that were potentials.  Bare in mind, nothing was high-waisted, pull-on, tapered leg. It is always possible to locate an older pattern.  

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful for yourself.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Casual Outfit

 Lafayette 148 New York has their resort wear collection available for preview.  I picked the following outfit as something wearable day-to-day:

This outfit is composed of many elements.  The L148 Denim Crosby Boyfriend Jeans - price tag: $598.00.  The Organic Cotton Poplin Color-Blocked Oversized Shirt - price tag: $798.00.  The Matte Crepe Sleeveless Turtleneck Shell - price tag: $498.00.  The Calfskin Leather Pointed Toe Slingback Pump (not shown - matches blue color on shirt) - price tag: $798.00.  The Irregular Ear Cuff - price tag: $148.00.  All items are available to reserve in the Lafayette 148 New York Bouquet.

Details:  

The L148 Denim Crosby Boyfriend Jeans - mid-rise, full leg fit, full length, 13oz denim, zip fly, 5 pocket detail.

The Organic Cotton Poplin Color-Blocked Oversized Shirt - Oversized silhouette, shirt collar, drop shoulder, long sleeves, button cuff, hidden button placket, button patch pocket, side slits with curved hemline, pleated back yoke, thigh length.

The Matte Crepe Sleeveless Turtleneck Shell - relaxed fit, turtleneck, sleeveless, pullover, ribbed trimmed neck and hem, double-knit, hip length.

The Calfskin Leather Pointed Toe Slingback Pump (not shown) - pointed toe, slingback slip-on, calfskin leather with leather lining, moccasin toe construction, 3 1/2-inch architectural icon heel, cushioned insole with leather outsole.  (This is a beautiful shoe and definitely worth looking at if you are a shoe person.)

 The Irregular Ear Cuff - handmade open cuff, pale gold finish, 1/2-inch x 1/2-inch with 1/2-inch opening, 100% brass.

I am all for knock-offs here.  Go check out Etsy for Ear Cuffs.  They have similar cuffs available.  The shoes make a take a while unless you just match the color to the shirt.  

The turtleneck shell - Take your favorite crew-neck t-shirt pattern and add the collar, remove the sleeves (do not forget to adjust the size of the armscye).

The color-blocked shirt - this might be a good time to check the large pieces of stash.  This shirt has one side of the front and the back with one color (blue) and the sleeves, yoke, collar, and one-side of the front a second color (brown). This might be a good time to find a pattern with the oversized silhouette and get it fitted or you can take an already fitted shirt pattern and use it.    Do a search on the blog for the instructions for the hidden placket.

The L148 Denim Crosby Boyfriend Jeans - I do not know of a specific pattern for this styling of jeans.  However if you could locate a trouser pattern if might work.

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Muslin...Duet Trousers

 I decided it was time to work on pants again.  My chunkiness makes it hard to fit pants.  Here is my first muslin of the Love Notions Duet Trousers in a woven at knee length with no changes:

The front is not too bad.  Honestly if I was out shopping for pants and they fit like this in the front, I would buy them.  The rise feels a little short.  It does not feel bad it just feels like the waistband is in the wrong place.

Now I am starting to see a few issues on this left side view.  I can see that the darts are too long since they should end at the start of the curve and not the bottom of the curve.  We will investigate the wrinkles a bit more with the next picture.

Now the wrinkles are really showing up.  I am going to start with releasing the seam in the crotch area and see what it looks like.  Most likely I will add some length to the top as there is not any sitting here. The dart length definitely needs to be shortened .

The wrinkles are not as obvious in right side view.  

Here are the items that will definitely be changed in the next of the same muslin:

1.  Shorten back darts.

2.  Release the crotch points.

3.  Check fit and decide whether to add length as an insert all the way around or in the middle to nothing at the sides.  This will be done directly on the muslin.

4. Check fit again with length changes added.

I am always interested in hearing your on fitting.  Feel free to leave comments.

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Top & Dress Pattern...

 The new Itch to Stitch Fisterra Top & Dress pdf pattern has many options.  Here is the line drawings:

The pdf pattern comes with two sleeve options, two length options, and bust cup options.  Fabric recommendations are light weight with no stretch.  This is a pullover item.  The pattern is 20% off through October 2, 2022.  Volume discounts still apply.   Be sure to read the blog post on this pattern so you can see all of the beautiful garments made.  

I am an Itch To Stitch affiliate. Links on this page are affiliate links.  Should you use one of the affiliate links to make a purchase, I would receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...A-line Dress

 An a-line dress will look good on most people. Here is a nice example:

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Jewel A-Line Dress. Price tag: $798.00.  Details: Crew neck, long sleeves, back zip closure, knee length, unlined, viscose/polyester/elastane.

This is a great dress for work, church, etc.  Really I would wear just day-to-day.  Here are a couple of dress pattern that might work well:

This is the Seamwork Piedra dress pattern.  It is a knit shift dress.  It gives you the high neck line, and the long sleeves.  It is a casual, pull-over dress.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...T-shirt

 T-shirts are a wardrobe staple.   Here is a beautiful example:

This is the Lafayette 148 New York The Modern Long-Sleeved Tee.  Price tag: $ 248.00.  Details: length approximately 23 1/2" long from shoulder, crew neck, long sleeves, relaxed fit, pullover style, cotton.  (Model is 5'10")

The details that make this t-shirt a little different is the hems.  Here is a close-up:

If you zoom in a bit on the picture, you can see that the hems are very deep.  I would guess that they are about 2-inches deep.  I do have a pattern from the late 90s with this type of detail.  This type of change is easy to do yourself to a pattern that is already fitted.

As for the jeans it is stated in the listing which jean is shown with the t-shirt, but I think it is the Wyckoff Italian Hertiage 13 oz wide legged jean.  Price tag: $498.00. Details: 12-inch rise, 26-inch inseam, 21 1/2-inch leg opening, high rise, 5 pocket styling, wide legs, full length, button/zip fly, belt loops, cotton/spandex.  (Model is 5'10")

The details on the inseam seam off to me.  Personally, I have a 30-inch inseam and the model is 5-inches taller than me.  The only way to know is to actually find the jeans at a store and try them on or order them.  

I am not going to recommend any patterns for this one.  I would say any t-shirt pattern that you have already fitted that is not a tight fit would work and the same goes to the jeans.  Remember it is the details that matter.

Soller Top & Dress...

My fall wardrobe is coming along.  I do expect it be a warm fall so the next item can to worn with sweaters or jackets. The muslin for the Itch to Stitch Soller Top can be found here along with any changes that I had decided to do.  Here is the top which I added 1-inch to the length:

Here is the dress which I added 2- 1/2 inches to the length:

I love this dress!  It does not have a lot of hanger appeal but it is beautiful on.  It is a very slim fit but not fitted.  I am considering making a matching belt.

I did find another small piece of knit that will work for the Soller Top.  I have not decided if I will be making another one but if I do I will also make a skirt to go with it so I will have an outfit that can be worn to church.

I am an Itch To Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made via the Itch to Stitch links will result in a small commission to me at no additional cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Shorts Pattern...

 The weather is still hot here so it is a perfect time to stitch some new shorts.  Here is the Itch to Stitch Brampton Shorts pdf sewing pattern:

The Brampton Shorts are a elastic wait pull-on short with a paper-bag-styling.  They are high-waisted with multiple length options, optional side pockets, optional back patch pockets, optional belt loops and sash, and relaxed thigh fit.  Be sure to check out the blog post for lots of inspiration.  The pattern is on sale through August 31, 2022.  All discounts apply.

This short will require a drapey fabric.  Think something with the same drape as a rayon or tencel twill.  This type of drape will look good with the leg width.

I am an Itch To Stitch affiliate. Links on this page are affiliate links.  Should you use one of the affiliate links to make a purchase, I would receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

It Was An Unfinished Project...

 Long ago, I started a mystery quilt.  Here is the last post on this particular quilt - here.  I finished the top and sent it off to the quilter.  The quilter did a beautiful job quilting it for me but I have left it sitting in a bag since I got it back.  Yep, it moved across country with me.  The hard part was done.  No idea why I stopped at the easy part.  In an attempt to get some of the unfinished projected finished, I decided it was time to finish this quilt.  I used this calculator to determine how much fabric that I needed to create my double bias binding.  So 3/4 of yard later, I was ready to start the process of attaching the binding.   Here is my finished quilt:

There is one more unfinished quilt.  At this point, it is a finished top.  I need to locate a quilter.  The quilt top was finished in the same time period as the one above.  I think it is time to get this finished.  This one will remove a huge chunk of fabric out of the stash closet.  I am ready.  Some day, I will be able to empty my storage unit of fabric.  

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Cashmere Jacket

 Here is another jacket to think about.  It is a classic style.

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Highlands Button-down Cashmere Jacket.  Price tag:$ 2498.00. Details: Approximately 22-inches long from shoulder to hem, grosgrain piping, crew neck, button front, long sleeves, chest button-thru patch pockets, relaxed fit, alpaca/cashmere/polyamide, rayon lining.  Model is 5'10".

This is a classic jacket style.  Be sure to check it out at the Neiman Marcus website.  The details on this one as the buttons and the grosgrain are the major details.  Also, just be aware that you need grosgrain that is meant for clothing and not hats.  Clothing grosgrain will not release dye and is 100% rayon.

Here is a similar style:

This is Vogue 8804.  It is a Claire Shaeffer pattern with her instructions.  It is not a beginner pattern but is doable for someone with a little bit of experience.

Sadly, there are not many patterns of this jacket style anymore.  If you look on the pre-owned market you might find more patterns.

Hope you are inspired to make a beautiful jacket this fall.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Plaid Jacket with Pleated Pants

 Fall is coming.  I can see that the trees that survived the hot, hot summer are starting to change a little bit.  It seems a bit early.  I am working on the last two summerish garments and then I am moving to fall.  So I am out looking for inspiration.  This outfit would be really nice for working in an office environment although I am not sure how many of those outfits are needed these.  Most of the people I know that work in office environments are doing most of the work from home these days.  On the outfit:

I wanted a picture of the entire outfit.  If I were still working, this is exactly what I would be happy wearing.  Here is a close-up of the jacket:

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Highlands Plaid Open-Front Reversible Jacket. Price tag: $1698.00.  Details: reversible jacket with leather piping, 22 1/2" long from shoulder to hem, crew neckline with open front, long sleeves, patch chest pockets, relaxed fit, wool.

Pants - Lafayette 148 New York Waverly Tapered Pants. Price tag: $898.00. Details:  approximately 28" (model is 5'10"), mid-rise sits high on hip, side seam pockets, cuffed hems, cropped at ankle, full through thigh, tapered leg.

Turtleneck -Lafayette 148 New York Knit Raglan Sleeved Turtleneck Sweater.  Price tag: $598.00. Details: Approximately 24" long from shoulder to hem (size small), turtleneck, long raglan sleeves, relaxed fit, pullover style.

As far as patterns go, I would use the same patterns as mentioned in this post.  For the pants, I would try this pattern:

This is Simplicity 9376.  There are a couple options in this pattern.  The pant might not be as full as the inspiration photo but you decide how much ease you want.  Other options might be looking for a vintage pattern from the 80s or 90s.  As far as the top, just use an already fitted t-shirt pattern and add a collar the length you want.

Something I want to mention about the jacket, if you are wanting a reversible jacket make sure to muslin it first with similar weight fabrics.  It is surprising how much an added layer of fabric will change the fit.  Also instead of leather, look into the leather look knit.  It will be much easier to work with unless of course you just love leather.

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful!

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Embroidered Jacket

 Fall is around the corner.  Here is more thoughts on fall style:

This is the Boden Embroidered Crop Jacket.  Price: $220.00.  Details:  fully lined, falls to high hip, sleeve gathered into cuff, semi-fitted, no center front closure, 100% cotton inside/outside with polyester filling.  Here is a close up of the embroidery:

This is highly embellished embroidery.  If you zoom in, you can see all the embroidery and beads.  You could use a bit of applique for the flowers if you chose to and then added the additional embellishments.

This is a super simple jacket shape with the exception of the sleeve.  Here are some pattern ideas:

This is the Silhouette Patterns Janie's Jacket pattern.  This is a very simple jacket.  Once you have it fitted, you could make several different jackets changing the look with the type of fabric, and notions.

This is Vogue 7975.  It is a very basic jacket with various closures. This is not the only Vogue pattern in this style.  You would just need to check them out and see which one is best for you.

As always, check your pattern stash.  There might just be the correct pattern hidden inside.  Hope you are inspired to sew something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Soller Top Muslin...

When the Soller Top/Dress pattern came out, I knew it would be the perfect summer top.  Not much different than a tank or t-shirt but even to be a little different.  For the muslin, I found this fabric in the stash:

Content unknown but it is most likely a rayon blend.  Love the colors.  Here are the results:

I made a straight size 20 and it took about 1 yard of fabric.  I was certain that I would need to play with bust darts and removing them but the top seems to hang straight which is very surprising.   For me at 5'5", the top feels a little short (as shown, it is just covering the waistband).  This could just be an age group issue as I also made a larger size so that it would not be tight.  The top will definitely work with high-waisted pants as is.  

Conclusion:

1.  The Soller Top/Dress pattern is a winner.  I want both a top and a dress to finish the heat of summer and fall.  Most people could probably finish this in an hour or two.  I am slow so it took a couple of days.

2.  Changes:  add 1-2 inches to the length.  I will making the assumption that the dress will be shorter than the "old lady" in me can handle as well.  

I am off to check the stash for small pieces of knit fabric to make a top or two using this pattern.  I already have the fabric selected to the dress. 

Happy Stitching!

(I am an affiliate of Itch to Stitch.  All links are affiliate links and if used to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.)

Fall Pants...

 Even through the temps are still in the high 90s and feels like the mid-100s, it is time to think about things for fall.  If we can accomplish a few things before the weather starts changing, we will be a bit ahead.  Here is some pants that I have shown in past seasons but it seems to still be going strong:

This is the Lafayette 148 Acclaimed Stretch Gramercy Pant.  Price tag: $498.00.  Details: Slim fit, side zip, pintuck seams, sits at waist, ankle length.  I choose a color so that you could see the details on the pant.  Here is a link to other posts regarding this pant.  You will see that I have considered many patterns to recreate this pant.  Here is another consideration:

This is the Love Notions Sabrina Slim Pants pdf pattern.  Once fitted it would make a nice pant or two or three.  

Hope you are inspired to start working on your fall wardrobe.

Happy Stitching!

Itch To Stitch Celeste Dress...

 The days are getting extra hot.  I thought last summer with the high 90 temps was bad but this just seems to be giving that to us and more.  Dresses have become far more comfortable with the heat.  I am using this fabric that I purchased in June:

You can read more about the fabric at the link above.  I am really happy with this fabric and think it will be perfect for the Celeste.  Here is a front view of the muslin:

I decided that the muslin would be fine.  I could see that I needed just a wee bit of a bust dart adjustment but decided not to attempt it.  Here is the dress:

I can see that I will need to live with wrinkles with this fabric.  It is truly a fabulous fabric but I did not realize how easily it wrinkled until I sat down to slip my shoes on.  I guess a little starch or similar product maybe required.

Here is the size information along with changes:

1. Overall, a size 16 DD with a size 20 armscye and sleeve.

2. Added 2-inches to the length.

Overall, I am very happy with this dress.  There will definitely be another in my future especially since dresses are so much cooler to wear when the temperature is in the high 90s or low 100s F. 

Next version:

1.  I will add about a 1/2 to the bust dart.  Since this is a prince seam, I need to figure out how to do it correctly.  

I do have an issue that shows up on the back and on the back of the sleeve.  I have never been able to figure out the issue.  I think so of it is the shape of the armscye but I also think it is the shape of the sleeve.  Here is a picture of the back:

Here is a close up of the left sleeve:

Here is a close up of the left back:

In looking at the closeup, it is possible that I need to narrow the back.  I just do not know.  I can say that the sleeve does not bind in any way and feels comfortable.  I can also say that I see this issue in a lot of pictures that other people post in various forums.  

If you have any ideas or suggestions, I would love to hear them.  I think that I just need to play.  I still have my muslin and I can certainly play with it a little bit more.  I usually do all kinds of snipping and adjusting when I am working on a muslin and I did not do it with this one.

I am an Itch To Stitch affiliate.  Some of the links on this page are affiliate links.  Should you use one of the affiliate links to make a purchase, I would receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

Itching to Stitch...

 I have been slowing working on my various projects with one of them being the Itch To Stitch Celeste Dress.  I could not resist the lastest Itch to Stitch pattern - the Soller Top & Dress pattern.  It has been printed and waiting to be put together.  I think that is some stash fabric that will work with this pattern.  Of course, I still have a vest that needs to be completed.  I finally got the zipper stops in so I fix the zipper to the correct length.  The knitting bug has hit and I purchased yarn from Knit Picks with the projects being freebies.  Here is the first project:

This is a knit cafe curtain that I intend to make twice as long.

This is Froggy.  No idea what I am going to do with this but I sure thought it was cute and I am going to knit it.  

I have not been sewing much while I spend my days with my parents so why not knit.  It will keep my fingers busy and hopefully I will not snack as much while I am there. I am definitely a stress eater and it is not helping at all that my parents keep every type of snack you can imagine available.

Do you knit as well?

Happy Stitching!

(I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  All Itch to Stitch links are affiliate links.  Should you purchase anything via these links, I would receive a small percentage of the sale.  Thank you!)

 

New Itch To Stitch Top & Dress Pattern...

 The temperatures are scorching hot here and Itch to Stith has come out with the perfect hot weather pattern.  It's the new Sollers Top & Dress pattern line drawings:

The Sollers Top/Dress PDF pattern is designed for medium weight knits with 4-way 50% stretch.  Best part is the top can be made with 1 yard or less of fabric depending on your size.  Hop over and check out the blog post to see all the wonderful versions created by the testers.  This pattern will be on sale through July 27, 2022.  All tiered discounts still apply.  

If you're looking for a quick easy top or dress, this pattern certainly fits the bill.  Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful. 

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

Another Itch To Stitch Foz Top...

 The Itch To Stitch Foz pdf pattern has been one of my favorite patterns since it came out.  You can see my favorite late fall/winter/early spring version here.  This version is going to short sleeved.  Here is the fabric that I chose:

You can read more about this fabric here. It says that I purchased 1 1/2 yards but it sure seems like there is more fabric than that.  I used approximately 1 1/4 yards.  Drum roll...here is my lovely new Foz Top with the Love Notions Allegro Pants that I made in May here:

Here is the same Foz Top with black pants and sandles:

My sewing machine just did not produce a stitch I was happy with so I did pull out the coverstitch machine to finish the hems.  It was challenge because I have not even looked at the coverstitch machine in a couple of years.  I know shame on me.  However with the help of youtube, I was able to get it threaded first try.  Then it was off to play with the tensions and differential on scrap fabric.  You know both of these were a challenge as well.  First try on the actual garment ended up wavy, so I changed the differential.  Any one else find the coverstitch machine a challenge?

Overall, I am happy with the results.  The fit of the top in the the ITY knit feels closer than the fit of the top in the ribbed knit.  I know it is the difference in the fabrics.  Next time, I will give myself a little additional room at the sides.  I also see that I really need to increase the bust dart and do a small sway back adjustment.  It definitely makes me want to get rid of the belly as it is a bit clingy. I do tend to avoid the ITY knits for that reason.  I will wear my top as the weather permits.  Maybe I can figure out how to slim the belly so the top does not have as much to cling to.

Happy Stitching!

(I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  If you purchase through my link, I would get a small commission. Thanks you!)