Inspiration...Linen Skirt

 When the weather is hot, all I want to wear is skirts and dresses.  This skirt is pretty high on the list of things that need to made:

This is the Layla Linen Skirt from Boden.  Price tag: $160.00.  Details:  80% linen - 20% recycled linen,  machine washable, relaxed silhoutte not too loose, sits at natual waist, functional pockets, falls mid-calf, and elastic waist with drawcord fastening.

Love this skirt.  Here is my choice of patterns:

This is the Love Notions Allegro pant/skirt pattern.  The long version is pretty perfect to use for this type of skirt.  Yes, I know the slits are different than the inspiration photo but that is okay.  It would be easy enough to change the center front fold to a seam (do not forget to add the seam allowance).  

Linen fabric is pretty easy to find.  Fabrics-store.com is my favorite linen place. Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...T-Shirt Dress

 This inspiration is an every day item.  A basic.

This is the Scuba Mini T-Shirt Dress by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $698.00.  Details: Approximately 36 1/2 inches from shoulder to hem, crewneck, elbow sleeves, on-seam pockets, hem falls above the knee, shift silhouette, invisible back zipper, nylon/polyamide/elastane, hand wash. Model is 5'10".

I love the idea of this dress. A t-shirt dress is perfect for every day. However, the description of this dress seems confusing to me.  It does not seem mini to me and I am okay with that because I do prefer knee length.  The fabric is described as super stretchy with great recovery but it has a back zipper. Personally, I would not go to the trouble of putting a zipper in a t-shirt dress.

As for the pattern, I would say that any loose fitting t-shirt pattern would work. If I make time to re-create this dress using a t-shirt pattern it would probably be this one:

This is the Barrington Boxy Tee by Love Notions.  You get a lot of options with it.  Once it is fitted, all you need to do is add length.  Of course, any pattern that you already own and is fitted is perfect. 

As for the fabric, I am not familar with this particular fabric type.  I do not know if it would actually be cool enough in hot weather.  Do you know?  I would probably use a nice cotton knit but I am certain that I do not have that in the stash. 

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Denim Skirt

I really like a denim skirt and I have planned plenty of them without ever following through.  However, a version of the following skirt might get made:

This is the Side-Slit Belted Denim Midi Skirt from Akris punto.  Price tag: $730.00.  Details:  high-waisted, pencil silhouette, hem falls below knee, side slit hemm invisible back zipper, viscose, dry clean.

I do not know about you but I do not want a dry clean only denim skirt but I sure like the idea of this skirt.  Here is the pattern I was thinking:

This is the Encore Skirt from Love Notions.  This pattern has lots of options with one of the options being a pencil skirt.  I would use the pencil skirt at the long length and create a slit on one side.  Ease peasy.  Then, create a fabric belt.  I am not sure how long belt would need to be but I would think that twice your waist length would be a good starting point.  Width would probably be at least the width of the skirt waistband.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Eyelet Shirt

 Spring is in the air.  It is time to think about spring/summer sewing.  Here is an interesting top:

This is the Eyelet Cotton Poplin Cap-Sleeve Collared Blouse by Akris punto.  Price tag: $625.00. Details:  crisp cotton poplin with abstract eyelet embroidery, spread collar, split v front, cap sleeves, relaxed fit, hip length.

Here is a close up of the top not on a person:

The real appeal of this top is the lovely eyelet.  The chances of actually finding that eyelet is fairly slim.  I did look around a little bit and found that the Fabrics & Fabrics website has a huge selection of beautiful eyelets.  

I have not seen an exact pattern like this but it should be fairly easy to duplicate.  Love Notions has the Melody Dolman that might work:

The front would need to be cut on the fold and a tab put in.  I know that Liesl & Co has instructions for doing this to the classic shirt pattern on their website.  Another pattern to consider is:

This is the Nosara Shirt pdf from Itch to Stitch (affiliate links).  Same issue as the Love Notions pattern.  

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

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!

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!

Love Notions Barrington Boxy Tee...

 I am still experimenting with pattern fitting via the Pin & Needles fitting videos.  I chose the Love Notions Barrington Boxy Tee.  Here is the line drawing:

This tee is a boxy tee that hits at the high hip.  I choose to do the long sleeve, crew neck, and the split sides.  I chose a large in the shoulder/armscye area and an x-large from the armscye to the hip.

Here is the the pattern changes:

The only change that I made on the sleeve was to make the sleeves a little wider through the bicep area.  I followed what I had seen a "cutter" do to a shirt and decided if they could do it so can I.

The bodice changes were minor.  My bust point is shorter than average so I move the bust point up 1 inch by taking a pleat in the pattern.  To get the waist in the correct spot, I added 3 inches just above the waist.  I made identical changes to the back bodice.

We have been having renovations down and I had to move all of my fabric from their hiding spot in my room.  It was like Christmas.  I found many fabrics that I had forgotten about.  I found this wonderful cotton knit in a royal blue.  

I have been having pretty good luck with making changes according to the Pins & Needles fitting method so I ditched the muslin and just made the top.  I did have challenges but it was 100% machine issues.  My coverstitch machine just did not want to function properly.  I ended up having to finish one side of the bottom hem in a different stitch because the lower looper on the coverstitch machine would not stay threaded.  It was very frustrating.  Here are the results of my efforts:

The fit is far from perfect but every bit as good as anything I can purchase.  In looking at the pictures, I am wondering if I need a round back adjustment.  Many tops need a high round back adjustment but I do not feel like that is the case here.  I will definitely make a couple more for spring/summer because that v-neck version really calls to me.  Maybe if I dig around a little more I will find more suitable knit fabrics for this pattern.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Slim Legged Pants

 It is time to start thinking about late winter or early spring.  I think have found the perfect pant.

This is the Bleecker Slim-Legged Pant by Lafayette New York 148.  Price tag: $698.00.  Details:  9-inch rise, 30 1/2-inch inseam, 39-inch outseam, 14-inch leg opening; sits just below the natural waist; slim fit legs; center crease front and back; side zip; acetate/polyester bleand; dry clean.

I really like the pant but I really do not like the price.  I found three patterns options:

This is the Sabrina Slims pdf pattern by Love Notions.  

 This is Pants..Perfected! by Pamela's Patterns.

This is the Clover Pants pdf pattern by Seamwork.

All three of these patterns have similar features.  Even though the Sabrina Slims were my first pattern thought, the Clover Pants and Pants Perfected patterns are probably a little closer to the inspiration photo.  

I do not really want to get similar fabric to the inspiration photo just because of the care needed.  All three pants can be made from stretch wovens with varying degrees of stretch.  Two of the pants can be made from knits.

Happy Stitching!

A Look Back on 2025 Sewing...

 Well, I thought my 2024 sewing was not much but I think 2025 was even less.  I guess that is what happens when you have a "lemony" kind of year.  I had fun times traveling.  I had sad times losing several family members.  I had big decisions to make regarding my health which I am still working on.  

Most sewn pattern:

Believe it or not there was not a most sewn but there were four ties.

1.  Liesl & Co Classic Shirt.  You can not go wrong with the pattern, if you are looking for a classic button down shirt.

2.  Itch to Stitch Taroko Skirt.  This is another great basic.  

3.  Sew Over It Pussy Bow Blouse.  This is a nice little blouse.

4. Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse.  This is a cute blouse with lots of options.

Most loved patterns:

1.  Liesl & Co Classic Shirt pattern.   It is just a classic that you can make over and over.

2.  Itch to Stitch Taroko Skirt pattern.  This one is a repeat from last year.  It is such a nice little skirt pattern.

Most dislike project:

I am happy to report that there were not any dislike project.  Well, maybe one.  It was a quilt top that I had been given.  I ended up spending about $40 on the project only to throw it out.  It was a nasty stretchy mess and I gave up on it.

Most used project: 

This definitely has to be the surgery pillow that I made.  It has been in constant use since the day of my surgery.  It really did save me as far as my cats went.  It kept them away from the area. It was used many times when I went out in the car.  

2025 Sewing Reflection:

My sewing time was very limited in 2025.  Betweens traveling, deaths, and health decisions sewing time just did not happen much.  Sewing did save me in the month before my surgery as it keep my mind and hands busy.  The month after my surgery did not have much sewing in it but I did put together patterns and made one muslin.  We have to happy for what we can do, right?  I am trying to just go with the flow.  

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

Happy Stitching!

One More Pattern...

 I do not really need any more patterns.  I have tons of patterns that I have not tried yet.  However, I love to sew for the guys in my life so I added one more pattern.  Here it is:

This is the Love Notions Dockside Henley and Polo.  You get a crew neck t-shirt, a henley t-shirt, and a polo.  All with short or long sleeves and with a pocket or without a pocket.  It seems like a pretty basic pattern that could have a lot of mileage.

Now, I am on the look out of interesting activewear fabric that is manly.  Yes, I know that many solids will work but the golf lover in my life rarely wears solids.  If you know of good sources, let me know.

Happy Stitching!

Rhapsody Round Two...

 I think this will definitely be the last spring/summer top for this season.  I purchased this fabric back in February specifically for the Rhapsody Blouse:

This is a rayon challis and was actually perfect for the Rhapsody blouse.  You can see my original muslin here, and the first wearable blouse here.

I can really see why people love this blouse.  With the exception of the binding, it is fast.  Here is the second wearable blouse:

Overall, I am pleased with this top.  I had added a little more space in the bodice while keeping the yoke the same.  I added 1/2-inch in the middle of the front bodice and just added more gathers.  The back bodice was placed 1/2-inch from the fold.  This gave me and added 2-inches all the way around.  Here is the sides and back:

  

The top may still be a bit long in the back.  I like the length in the front.  I still have a little bit of poofing at the back of the sleeve.  I thought I had taken care of the that but I do not know what is causing it.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I am planning on more Rhapsody but it will be a long sleeved version for fall/winter and I am planning to change the neckline just a little bit.

Happy Stitching!

Rhapsody Revisited...

 I am finally getting back to the Rhapsody Blouse by Love Notions.  This is a much loved pattern and I hope I can get it to work.  My first attempt at the Rhapsody Blouse was an exercise in picking the wrong size.  Folks, I know to check the pattern before cutting.  No idea why I did not.  So, I have now reprinted a different size of the pattern and have applied the length changes that I know that I need.  Here is the finally result:

Not sure about the weirdness in the top photo but hopefully, you can get an idea of the changes that were made.

I do have more of that cute fabric from the first muslin so that is that fabric that I am using.  Here are the results of the second muslin:

I used a straight XL with the full bust option this time. That did not match up with the sizing instructions but measuring the pattern told me to do this.  

Overall evaluations:  The top fits.  I feel like it might be a little on the snug side but that is easy to fix by adding a little bit to the bodice width.  It is possible that the small change could create more changes. Overall I'm happy.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Cigarette Pants

 ...and I thought wide legged pants were going to continue.  Here is a pair of cigarette pants:

This is the Manhattan Cotton Twill Cigarette Pants by Lafayette 148 New York.  Price tag: $698.00.  Details:  flat front, side slant pockets, back welt pockets, side slit hems, cropped at ankle, slim tapered legs, fly zip, belt loops, rise approximately 10 1/4-inches, 29-inch inseam.

This is a very neutral outfit to take you right into fall.  Now, what patterns would be best?  I can think of two but neither are perfect but would get the look.  Here are the options:

This is the Seamwork Clover Pants.  You get the overall look of the Cigarette Pants just not all the details.

This is the Love Notions Sabrina Slims.  Again, you can achieve the look but not all the details.

I think there is plenty to think about here.  What do you think about the Cigarette Pants?

Happy Stitching!

Wardrobe Considerations...The Overall Plan

 Here is the sewing plan with pattern selections, fabric selections, and color:

• Liesl & Co Peckham Trouser in navy and gray.  Fabric will be cotton twill.
• Itch to Stitch Taroko Skirt in teal. Fabric will be a cotton sateen.
• Liesl & Co Classic Shirt in pink and gray.  Fabric will be a cotton pique and cotton oxford cloth.
• Love Notions Classic Tee in navy.  Fabric will be a cotton/lycra jersey.
• Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse in teal.  Fabric will be a solid challis.
• Seamwork Flor Cardigan in gray.  Fabric will be a knit of some sort.
• Liesl & Co Classic Shirt dress length in pink.  Fabric unknown at this time.
• McCall's 7818 jacket in navy.  Fabric unknown at this time but would be nice if matched first item.

Whew!  That is a lot of sewing.  I do need to track back to the  "Starting From Scratch" series at the Vivienne Files.  Just to make sure that I am on track.   

Of this items, the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt, Itch to Stitch Taroko Skirt are fitted.  I am in the process of fitting the Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse.  That leaves the Liesl & Co Peckham Trousers, Seamwork Flor, and McCall's 7818 jacket to be fitted.  That is a lot of fitting.  I really do want the trousers fitted though and will be starting with them first.

 Do you think this is too far in front of the season to start planning?  Have you tried this?  It would really be nice to get ahead of a season and not be sewing like mad to make something to wear right now.

Hope you are inspired to sew.

Happy Stitching!

Wardrobe Considerations...On Going Decisions 2

We are now moving on to tops.  The AI suggested many top patterns but the only one that I took was the Liesl & Co Classic Shirt.   The other tops pattern will be the Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse and the Love Notions Classic Tee Shirt.  Here are the line drawings:

Liesl & Co Classic Shirt pattern.  These will be mostly easy.  There will be two shirts with colors of pink and grey.

This is Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse & Dress pattern.  Lots of options with this one.  I am currently working on fitting this blouse.  There will be one shirt in teal.  I might add another one in navy (AI suggested item.

This is Love Notions Classic Tee Shirt.  This pattern has several options. I may need to refit this pattern.   It should be a good option for a good, everyday type top.  This one will be in navy.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Pullover Dress

 This inspiration dress is very casual and lots of fun:

This is the Lily Pullilzer  UPF 50+ ChillyLilly Mandi Dress.  Price tag:  $198.00.  Details:  straight fit, shorter sleeves, 37-inches from shoulder to hem (based on size 4), fits chest and hips with more room at waist.  

If I lived near a beach, this print would be perfect.  I do not but I love the silloutte.  The first pattern that I thought of was Love Notions Frankie Polo:

In the Lily Pulitzer way, I found this fabric:

This is the Cheerful Summer Floral jersey knit* from knitfabric*. This is such a fun knit.  I would be tempted to use a sold fabric for the collar.

This is the Sunshine Floral jersey knit* from knitfabric*. This is such a fun knit.  

This is the Cobalt Heavyweight Cotton Lycra knit* from knitfabric*.  This is a more practical everyday type of knit. 

There are tons of knits fabrics at knitfabric*.  You should check them out.  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.  Also the inspiration is a nylon/lycra knit, so consider that type of fabric as well.

*I am an affililiate of knitfabric.  If you purchase something through one of my links, I will get a small commission at no cost to you.

Happy Stitching!

Rhapsody Muslin...

 I am starting my spring/summer sewing with the Love Notions Rhapsody Blouse.  Here is the line drawings:

This pattern has lots of options. There are two length options and nine sleeve options.  The muslin will be the cap sleeve with the neckline ties.  The fabric that I am going to use for the muslin is this fabric that I purchased earlier in March. When that fabric was washed, it turned into a nice piece of fabric.  

Here is a little look at my modified pattern:

Lots of length changes.  I have been following Karina at Lifting Pins and Needles and following her tips on making wovens tops.  So far, it has been worth the effort.  (Yes, I noticed that a kitty had been chewing on one of the pattern pieces.)

Here is the muslin:

Well after all the work, I realized that I had selected the wrong size for the top portion of the bodice.  I will not say that the top is tight but it is definitely too narrow.  Funny thing is that with every pattern from Love Notions I have made the same mistake but went up a size because I did not believe I could wear that size.  Now, I know for sure that my initial instinct was correct.  The top is always very long and needs 2 to 3 inches removed.

With luck, I will be able to reuse this fabric for another muslin.

Happy Stitching!