Just In Time ...Itch To Stitch Hepburn Turtleneck Update

 This update is just in time for winter.  Here is the Itch to Stitch Hepburn Turtleneck line drawings:

The Itch to Stitch Hepburn Turtleneck pdf sewing pattern has been updated to include sizes 22 to 40.  So now,  the pattern sizing is from 00 to 40.  It is at a 20% discount through December 17, 2023. All volume discounts still apply. If you already own the pattern, hop over to the Itch to Stitch site and login to download the new files.  The Hepburn Turtleneck features are:

• Options for long and three-quarter sleeves
• Double-layered turtleneck
• Close-fitting to accentuate your figure
• Designed for light to medium-weight knit fabric

Interested is seeing the pattern in action?  Check out the blog post with all the beautiful tester versions.

This update is just in time for some Christmas sewing if you inclined to make garments for others.  Turtlenecks make a great base layer.  The pattern is designed for fabrics with 100% stretch. If you can not find a fabric with that amount of stretch, no worries, just choose a larger size.  Hop over to Knitfabric(dot)com and check out their knits.  There are many interesting fabrics.

I am an affiliate of both Itch to Stitch and Knitfabric(dot)com.  Any purchases using any links made on this page would result in a small commission.  Thank you!

Happy Stitches!

Inspiration... Classic Jacket

 Today's inspiration is a very classic jacket:

This is the Linen-Cotton Boucle Tweed Collarless Buttoned Jacket by Lafayette New York 148. Price tag: $1298.00.  Details: slim silhouette, jewel neckline, long sleeve, button closure, button flap welt pockets, bust darts, french piping detail, quilted interior - theramore fill, enamel metal-framed buttons, high hip length, fully lined, 68% linen - 16% cotton - 16% polyamide, dry-clean only.

Now for the pattern which was much harder than you think it would be.  For some reason, the type of pattern is no longer represented by the big 4 pattern company.  However, I did find this pdf pattern:

This is the Freddie Jacket by Bella Loves Patterns.  View A is spot on for the design of this jacket.  Just add the little design detail of piping and you are there.  

With some diligence, you might find an out-of-print Vogue pattern by Claire Shaeffer.  I know her books are still available  Claire Shaeffer also has a youtube channel - here.  Just do a google search and you will find plenty of information for books, pattern, videos, etc.

I did find this website and it has a ton of information on French Jacket sewing.  It lists patterns and books. 

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful!  I have decided this will be the last post of the year unless I actually find time to sew.  Life has gotten extremely busy and it is not due to the holidays.  So, enjoy the holidays.  Spend time with your friends and family and let them know that you care.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Sleeveless Dress

 The spring/summer dresses are still inspiring me.  Take a look at this beauty:

This is the Sleeveless Belted Linen Midi Dress.  Price tag: $998.00.  Details:  44 1/2" from shoulder to hem, pick stitch detailing, scoop neckline, sleeveless, waist self-tie, on-seam pockets, hem fails below knee, a-line silhouette, invisible zipper, linen, unlined, dry clean.  For reference, model is 5'10".

Finding a pattern was surprisingly hard.  A shape this simple should be easy to find.  I did find this one:

 

Kwik Sew 3871.  It may be hard to find.  This is a pullover dress pattern which should make it quick and easy.  

I zoomed in on the inspiration dress to see if I could get pictures of the pick stitching detail.  I could not get close enough to get good picture of the pick stitching but I was able to see a little more detail on the dress.  The dress has a front seamline, waist darts, neckline, and sleeveless area that are pick stitched.  I think it would be worth your time to check this dress out up close.  Hope you are inspired to creation something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Ponte Pants

 Everyone needs a good pair of pants to wear for daily wear and I think this pair hits the spot:

This is Eileen Fisher Cropped Tapered Flex Ponte Pants. Price tag: $198.00.  Details: Approximately 26 1/2" inseam, flat front, mid-rise sits on high hip, cropped at ankle, tapered legs, pull-on style, tencel lyocell/nylon/polyamide/elastane, machine wash cold.  For reference, model is 5'10".

I found a couple of patterns that may work to duplicate this pant:

This is a Silhouette Pants Slim 4-Piece Yoga Pant.  

This is Silhouette Patterns Modern Align Yoga Pant.

Both of these patterns are a slim pull-on type pant that have a similar look to the inspiration pattern.  I think that the first one has a slimmer leg than the second one.  I think finding a similar fabric to the Eileen Fisher pant will be key in this recreation.  

I looked around at fabric a bit. Here is what I found:

1. Blue Moon Fabrics - Indulgent Tencel Spandex Fabric.  This fabric is heavier.  I would order a swatch before ordering fabric because there are no returns.

2, Blue Moon Fabrics - Embody Tencil Locell Spandex Rib Jersey Fabric.  This fabric is lighter weight than item 1 but it still might be heavy enough for pants.  Order a swatch and see what you think.

3.  Nature's Fabrics - Tencel/Spandex Jersey fabric.  This is the lightest weight of the three fabrics. Order a swatch.  

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Quebrada Skirt Pattern...

 If you like a gored skirt, this skirt is nice:

This is the Itch to Stitch Quebrada Skirt pdf pattern.  Here is the features list:

• A-line silhouette for a classic and flattering look
• Gored skirt design with 5 panels in the front and 6 in the back
• Two length options with the ability to further adjust to your preference
• Features waist facings for a streamlined look
• Simple center-back zipper
• Designed for medium-weight woven fabric

Skill level is beginner.  Sizes 00 - 40.   The Quebrada Skirt pdf pattern is on sale at  20% off through December 7, 2023.  All discounts apply so it is a good time to look around.  

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  If you purchased through one of my links, I will receive a small commission.  Thank you!

I love that this skirt is designed for heavier weight fabric.   When I saw the pattern, I immediately love the long version with boots and a big sweater.  Maybe I will get around to it.  

Remember to check the blog post for this skirt.  There are so many beautiful skirts. I hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Midi Shirtdress

 Springtime inspiration continues:

This is the Faux-Wrap Cotton-Line Midi Shirtdress by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $1,198.00. Details:  Approximately 50-inches from shoulder to hem, surplice neckline with spread collar, short sleeves, waist self-tie, on-seam pockets, hem fails below the knee, a-line silhouette, cotton-linen fabric, unlined, machine wash cold.   For reference, model is 5'10".

I love this dress.  I really wish I had the ability to see it in person so I could feel the fabric. It should be easy to care for.  I looked around a bit for fabric.  Vogue Fabric has a little bit of linen/cotton from Tori Richards in a print.  Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics had a huge selection of cotton/linen fabrics.  There could be fabric substitutions since this particular blend seems hard to locate in the US.

Now for the pattern, I have found an almost duplicate of the dress:

This is Butterick 5030 and View D is the look.  This is a wrap dress and not a faux wrap dress.  So how do you get the faux wrap.  I found this discussion on changing a wrap dress to a faux wrap dress.  Maybe it will be of use.  Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Sleeveless Crepe Shirt

 Spring/Summer will be here before you know it.  Plan ahead and you might have a chance to have the wardrobe ready to go with it hits.  Hot weather is really hard on me and over the last couple of years I have really turned to sleeveless items.  Here is a great sleeveless shirt with matching pants:

This is the Akris Punto Lightweight Techno Crepe Blouse.  Price tag: $440.00.  Details:  button front, sleeveless, side slit details, hip length, relaxed fit.   The model is 5'10" for reference.

They do not say anything about the collar but when you look up close at it, the collar seems to be a little longer similar to 70s styling but not quite as pointy.  What do you think of the matchy matchy with the pants?  This type of look tends to make you look leaner and taller.  Check Neiman Marcus website if you are interested in a closer look.

For the pattern, I am going to stick with tried and true:

This is the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt pattern.  For me, this is a classic shirt and I have it already fitted which is important.  Obviously, this is not sleeveless.  Here are instructions from another company showing how to make a button down sleeveless.  Do doubt there are other instructions available.  The only other changes that I see would be to straighten the hem and make side slits.

If you do not want to go to all the trouble of making pattern changes, the Seamwork (affiliate link) Willis shirt will work:

Version 2 of this pattern is very similar to the inspiration pattern.  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Jacket + Skirt

 Today's inspiration is for those who like to dress up.  I love this look:

This is Akris Yarn Dyed Cotton Short Jacket.  Price tag: $2990.00.  Details:  70s inspiration, round neck, button front, long sleeves with button cuffs, front patch pockets, hip length, relaxed fit, fabric - cotton/nylon/polyamide/elastine, lining - cupro.

This is Akris Pencil Skirt with Side Slits.  Price tag: $995.00.  Details: high rise, side zip closure, hem hits around the knee, a-line silhouette, side slits, fabric - cotton/nylon/polyamide/elastine, lining - viscose/elastine.  

This is like the perfect suit in the 80s and maybe the early 90s.  I suppose I was too young in the 70s to have notice this type of dressing. I would have thought that it was old lady stuff. I am an old lady now and would love to be wearing this minus those heels.

I do not think I can locate a good skirt pattern for this.  You will really have to dig back into the 80s/90s patterns to come close.  The jacket pattern is easy:

This is Vogue 7975 and it is an available pattern on the Simplicity site.  Easy peasy, right?  You will need to add a hidden placket to the front and add cuffs to the sleeves but it is all doable.  Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Colorblock Tunic

 Springtime inspiration is continuing.  This is an interesting tunic:

This is the Cotton Popeline Colorblock Kodak-Stripe Tunic by Akris Punto.  Price tag: $695.00.  Details:  Kent collar, button front closure, 3/4 sleeves, dropped shoulders, front patch pocket, rounded hem, relaxed fit.  Here is a look at the back: 

The back has an interesting pleat.  It looks like it comes down from the collar seam and opens just below the shoulder blades.  In looking at the front, I can also see a hidden button placket.  Be sure to zoom in the left side where the pocket is.  It is an interesting shape and perfectly matched the pattern.

As far as patterns, I think I would be tempted to try the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt but I am not sure how to get the "oversized" look correct.  I am sure it is more than making the next size larger.  The Seamwork Rachel (affililate) has a back that is drafted with the pleat.  Here is the line drawing:

For those wondering what a Kent collar is, it is a standard business collar.  Yes, I had to look it up to make sure there was not something special about it.  

Do you know of a better pattern for this?  Let me know if you do.

Happy Stitching!
  

Inspiration...Sleeveless Dress

 Oh, those 70s styles.  I do not actually remember this type of dress in the 70s but I was doing my own thing back then.  Here is a super cute dress:

This is the Akris 70's Inspired Wool Short Dress. Price tag: $1990.00. Details:  double-faced wool, round neckline, sleeveless, concealed back zip, worked in waist belt, hem fails above the knee, a-line silhouette, lined with viscose/silk.

An exact pattern will never be found of this beauty but I did think of this pattern:

This is an older Vogue pattern. It is from 1996 and View C bodice with View B skirt would give you a great likeness to the inspiration photo.  Now, you know how old some of my patterns are.  Yes, this pattern does include the lining information.  

If you check Neiman Marcus for the dress, be sure to zoom in so that you can see some of the details.  The above pattern does have a waistline so it would be possible to duplicate the "worked in waist belt".  Also, there are other dresses in similar silhouettes made in different materials.  Well, worth your time to explore.  Really if we are going to duplicate RTW, then go high end.  

Hope you are inspired to sew something beautiful for yourself.

Happy Stitching!

(Be sure to check my Destashify store. I am uploading new patterns monthly. Really it is hard to give up my collection as it gives me great joy but it is time for someone else to enjoy.)

Inspiration...Oversized Checked Button-Down

 Spring looks have caught my attention.  Here is a nice button down that is a little different:

This is the Oversized Checked-Print Button-Down Shirt by Lafayette 148 New York. Price tag: $698.00.  Details:  Approximately 34 1/2-inches from shoulder to hem, spread collar, hidden button placket, short sleeves, chest patch pocket, shirt tail hem, oversized fit, cotton, unlined.  For reference, model is 5'10".  Here is a back view as I think you need to see the sleeve:

I think the sleeve is a sweet little detail with the pleats and button cuff.  Here are a couple of other details that are not mentioned above - it has a dolman sleeve, the cuff is on the bias.  Here is a couple of pattern ideas:

This is the Nosara Shirt pdf pattern by Itch To Stitch (affiliate link).  This pattern would need to be lengthened, bias band added, hidden button placket,  and modification to the back if you want that sleeve detail.  

This is the Melody Dolman by Love Notions.  I think this pattern would only need to be lengthened, add the hidden button placket, and sleeve detail.  

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching! 

More Destashing...

 The pattern destashing in still occurring and probably will for a while.  I have added a couple of jean patterns, a couple of knit top patterns, and a pleated shorts/pants pattern.  

It is really hard to let go of my patterns but I am truly running out of space.  It will be harder to let go of fabric but it is coming as well.  

Here is the link to my Destashify store - here.

Happy Stitching!

Seamwork Sale...

 I am a Seamwork affiliate.  By using my Seamwork link, you get 50% off the annual subscription during the sale.  This would make a great gift for others or yourself.  Here are some of the benefits:

• 2 new monthly patterns plus all the other patterns in the library, pattern bonuses 
• discussion forum where you can talk all things sewing, share your sewing, ask questions, answer questions
• bi-annual Design Your Wardrobe - this really makes you think about what you have, what you need, what you just want to make
• sewalongs, tutorials, and techniques
• articles and past magazine issues
• helpful downloads - guides, worksheets, and planners
• fabric discounts
• a big bonus is when you sign up during a sale, that is your subscription rate as long as you are a member

I have had an annual membership since May 2019.  I was a monthly member for about 1 1/2 years before that.  Here are the reasons I became a member:

• I was losing interest in the print magazines that I was getting or they had gotten really expensive at 4 issues for over $100 per year.
• The annual membership was less expensive than purchasing monthly membership.
• The Seamwork magazine was a good alternative to one of the print magazines that I had been getting.
• I enjoy sharing on the forums.

A little bit about the fabric discounts, there are many shops in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, one in Europe, and one in New Zealand.  This discounts range from 5% to 15% with the majority being 10% to 15%.  If you are a big purchaser of fabric, patterns, and notions, it is a real possibility that you could pay the Seamwork subscription price with those discounts.

As an affiliate of Seamwork, I do receive a small commission if you use one of my links to make a purchase.

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration...Holiday Hand Towels

 More holiday decorations:

This is the Pottery Barn Winter Dreams Guest Towels.  Price tag: $29.00.  Details:  100% cotton, embroidery 100% polyester, size 15" x 22". 

Here is another creative idea similar to yesterday inspiration post.  Again, I would use 100% linen with 100% cotton on the applique.  Cut the fabric 1" larger all the way around so that you can create 1/2-inch hems.  Be creative and have fun!  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspirtion...Holiday Pillow

 This inspiration could be a stash buster if you are a person who keeps your small scraps.  

This is the Pottery Barn Dress Patchwork Tree Lumbar Pillow Cover.  Price tag: $ 79.50. Details:  16" x 24", 24" zipper, cotton/linen/viscose blend.

This is such a fun pillow.  It is full of small pieces of fabric with tons of embroidery.  This is so full of creativity.  

How would you make this pillow?  I would use a linen fabric and cut two pieces that are 17" x 25" or 1" larger measures than the size of your pillow form. For the zipper, this would be a good application for an invisible zipper.  Follow these directions for excellent results.  For the applique, purchase some fat quarters in christmas colors or check out the small pieces in your stash, whichever works best for you.  This is where you get creative.  Use specialty stitches on your sewing machine or attach by hand the various strips to create your trees.  This is where you just have fun.  Hope you are inspired to creative something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Andres Jacket...

 Thinking about making a new jacket?  The Itch to Stitch Andres Jacket looks to be a good option.  Here are the line drawings:

Here are the jacket features:

• Options for cup sizes
• A lined three-piece hood with optional drawstrings on the inside
• An unlined bodice
• Sleeves with diagonal seam lines
• Princess seams from the shoulders
• Spacious front pockets with exposed zippers
• An exposed center front zip closure
• A high-low hem with a rounded back
• Designed to be sewn with fleece-backed softshell fabric with a touch of stretch

Jacket sizes are 00 to 40.  Be sure to check out the tester's jacket on the blog post.  The Andres Jacket pdf pattern will be 20% off through November 13, 2023.  All volume discounts apply.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  If you purchased through one of my links, I will receive a small commission.  Thank you!

What about fabric?  Well, I found that Seattle Fabrics has a variety of fleece-backed softshell fabrics.  You can find samples at this link.  You can also find fleece-backed softshell fabrics at Mill Yardage.  

I am off to read about the different type of the softshell fabrics.  This jacket looks like it would be perfect for a trip I am planning.  I think I would enjoy making a jacket over searching for a water proof jacket.

Happy Stitching!

New Patterns...

 I rarely notice the new pattern release from the big four but noticed a few interesting patterns this fall:

This is Simplicity 9855.  The top pattern does not interest me at all but the pant pattern does.  Here is the line drawing:

The pattern descriptions is "Slim fit ankle length pants with hook and bar closure have belt loops, darted back waist, front pockets and single back welt pocket.".  The pattern sizing starts at a 10 and goes through a 38W.  There is no additional information on the site regarding the pattern at this time.  I would love to see what type of fabric the pattern is designed for.

This is Simplicity 9854.  Here is the line drawing:

This appears to be a good basic coat.  One that you can actually wear in cold weather with clothing underneath.  Yes, that is kinda a diss of the coat styles of the last few years.  The sleeves always seem to be ridiculously narrow.  Here is the description from the website: "Relaxed fit coat features notched lapels, inverted pleat at the center back, button closure and patch pockets with flap."

McCall's 8432.  Ah, I remember wearing this type of pant in the 90s.  Stirrup pants were so nice.  I do not necessarily remember them being pleated but memory is not necessarily accurate.  If I were making this these view A would be without the stirrup and view B would be with the stirrup.  Here you go for those pleated pants.

Butterick 6933.  The jacket and the pants are spot on for what I have been seeing online.  Not so sure about the skirt but if you are looking for jacket and pant pattern this on looks like it would be good. Here is the website descriptions: "Semi-fitted, partially lined jacket has notch collar, shoulder pads, princess seams, welt pockets, and long two-piece sleeves with button trim. Bias, A-line skirt has elastic waist and narrow hem. Full length pants have side front pockets and side seam zipper." 

Vogue 1996.  You like sewing for the men in your life.  This pattern has pants covered.  There is pleated pants, flat front pants, and pockets to make cargo pants.

Vogue 1973.  Finally, a blouse pattern with a bow and two sleeve styles.  I know that a this type of shirt is kinda limiting but you can fit once and make twice.  This was another style that I saw a lot for fall.  Wish the patterns came out sooner.

I guess that is all that caught my attention.  I will say that if you like vintage patterns there are a lot of reproduction in the fall offerings.  

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Linen Dress

 I do love a good dress and wear them almost exclusively when it is hot.  This is dress is pretty good for the spring and fall.

This is the Heathered Elbow-Sleeve Midi Dress by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $898.00.  Details:  length approximately 49-inches from shoulder to hem, v neck with spread collar, elbow length sleeves, hem falls below the knee, shift silhouette, pullover style, linen, unlined.  For refer, the model is 5'10". 

Even though I stated spring and fall above, this might be a good hot weather dress as well because of the fit.  My first thought for a pattern was this one:

This is the just released Amarena Dress pattern by Liesl & Co.  It is not exactly the same but it has the same feel.  You can also make a top with this pattern.

To get a little closer to the inspiration photo, you might consider this pattern:

This is the Merchant & Mills Factory Dress pdf pattern.  This pattern has the collar of the inspiration.  I would think that removing the skirt portion and lengthening the bodice would be a pretty good likeness to the inspiration photo.  

It all depends on how you interpret the inspiration photo.  Sometimes small changes to a pattern can make it seem completely different.  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration...Corduroy Shirt Dress

 I am returning to cooler weather inspiration.  I really like shirt dresses.  

This is the Boden Eloise Cord Midi Shirt Dress.  Price tag: $190.00.  Details:  99% cotton 1% elastane, machine wash, straight shape, midi length, side seam pockets, front patch pockets, long sleeves with functional cuffs, front button with collar, self fabric tie belt.  For reference, the model is 5'10".

If you have a shirt pattern that has already been fitted, please use it by adding the necessary length.  Make that pattern and those dollars already spent work for you.  If you do not have a shirt pattern, here is my favorite:

This is the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt pattern.  It is a very well drafted pattern.  I have made it several and like every version.  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Stitching, Stitching, Stitching...Working on the Love Notions Octave Coat

 I am slowing getting my planned projects going for fall/winter.  The next project is the Love Notions Octave Coat.  The pattern and instructions have been printed.  Next, will be taping the pattern together.  That is the down fall of a pdf pattern but you can print it as many times as you need which is a plus.  I noticed this past week that the pattern had been updated.  As far as I can tell the change is adding a new lapel.  Then, I saw that there was a new class for the Octave Coat available.  So it was a yes please, I will take that class.  Another benefit is that by taking the class you get instructions for making a zipped version of the coat.  

This will probably be a slow sew for me.  I never seem to get things done quickly any more.  Even when it should be a quick project.  Just does not happen.  However, the weather has decided to cool off and I really meant for this to be done before that happened.  I am not planning for this to be a heavy coat more like an intermediate coat as the fabric is a suiting weight.  This will be the first coat that I can remember making.  I hope it goes well.

How has your sewing been going?  Have you made a coat before?  How did it turn out?

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Linen Jacket

 Continuing with the spring theme...If you start by January, you should have the spring/summer wardrobe done by the time the warm weather starts.  Here is a nice looking linen jacket:

This is the Check-Print Single Breasted Blazer by Lafayette 148 New York. Price tag:  $998.00.  Details:  Approximately 28-inches from shoulder to hem, notched lapel, single-breasted front, long sleeves, chest patch pocket, front slip pockets, rounded front hem, center back vent, relaxed fit, cotton/linen, unlined.  For reference, model is 5'10".

This is a great linen jacket.  The fabric might be difficult to locate but you can not go wrong with a navy and white print for summer.  Here is the pattern that came to mind when I saw the jacket:

This is Silhouette Patterns #1900 jacket pattern.  The only obvious changes that I see with the pattern is adjusting the buttons to 3, maybe shorten the length, remove the shoulder pads, and making patch pockets instead of welt pockets.  This pattern is a princess seam to the shoulder so you would have to play a little bit to see how everything matched up.  The inspiration photo appeared to have a dart.

Hope you are inspired.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Shirtdress

 It looks to me like spring items are starting to showing up.  This dress is a pre-order.  

This is the Floral-Embroidery Cotton Midi Shirtdress by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $1298.00.  Details:  Approximately 45 1/2-inches from shoulder to hem, spread collar, hidden button placket, short sleeves with rolled cuffs, belted waist, on-seam pockets, hem falls below the knee, a-line silhouette, unlined.  For reference, model is 5'10".  

I just love everything about this dress except the price.  I am pretty sure this dress has a dolman sleeve on it.  I looked around a little bit for a dolman sleeve shirt dress but did not find anything of interest.  I did find instruction for how to create a dolman sleeve - Tutorial.  There are many links on the blog for creating a hidden button placket.  Just do a search.  As for the pattern, this one might work:

The pattern has the button front and the full skirt.  You would still need to make the dolman sleeve, lengthen the skirt, and the hidden button placket.  Of course, it would need to be fitted.  I think a vintage pattern from the 80s or 90s would probably work better.  It would require work to locate one though.  

Remember it is always best to use something you have already fitted.  That way you have more money to spend on fabric and notions.  I thinking about the Classic Shirt pattern and wondering what it would take to change it.  

Hope you are inspired to create something beautiful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Pleated Skirt

 I have a love for a long pleated skirt.  This skirt is not as long as I would like but I that is why I sew:

This is the Rag & Bone Garnet Pleated Italian Wool Midi Skirt. Price tag: $425.00.  Details: High rise, a-line silhouette, hem falls below the knee, back zip closure.  Here is a picture of just the skirt so you can see some of front details:

This is such a classic skirt style.  For a pattern, I think you will need to look vintage.  I have not see any pleated skirt patterns of this style recently.  I looked.  I remember making this style in the 70s and 80s.  You could probably find this style in earlier decades as well.

It seems that it is probably easier to locate fabric for a skirt than it is for a pattern.  Anyone up for drafting a pattern?    There is some Rag & Bone wool fabric at Mood here.

Happy Stitching!

Plaid Classic Shirt...

 It feels good to have another item made for fall/winter.  I have gotten really slow with my sewing.  Here is my latest classic shirt:

The pattern used is the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt.  Once you have it fitted, you can make many shirts.  The pattern is the same basic pattern that is used for a button down shirt.  It is very well drafted and has good instructions.  If you head over to the Olive & S website, you will also find a ton of information regarding this pattern.

I cut this version of the classic shirt in a single layer in an attempt to get the horizon stripes to match.  The body of the shirt is great.  I missed by a hair on the sleeves.  The yoke, button placket, cuff, and sleeve placket are all cut on the bias.  

Overall, I am very happy with this shirt and hope it gets a lot of wear.  The weather has been calling for a bit warmer clothing.

Happy Stitching!