Question?

How many of you post reviews to Pattern Review.com?

Why or Why not?

The reason I ask is because it's starting to feel more like a chore. As you know, I try to post very detailed reviews. I usually take quite a few pictures and the whole process can take a day sometimes. It's really easy to just post a pic and say, "Look at what I made this week!" Or to just say, "Yep, I liked it." Or "It's a great pattern, you should sew it too." Awww... the vague reviews are my absolute favorites.

I guess what I'm trying to figure out is whether or not it's beneficial for me, as a blogger, to take the time to post on my site and add a duplicate post to PR?

Your thoughts?

Simplicity 2622 - Strapless Maxi Dress

Project Details:

Pattern: Simplicity 2622
Fabric: Poly/lycra jersey knit
Notions: 1" wide elastic

Description: Strapless sweetheart neckline with center banding; fitted through bust maxi dress.

Pattern Sizing: 3/4 - 15/16 (junior sizing). According to my measurements, I cut the 15/16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yep... just on an adult body, LOL.

Fabric Used: I used a poly/lycra knit. I was unsure about the poly, but it was so lightweight and it draped so beautifully when I unrolled the bolt, that I had to have it. Plus, it was on the clearance table and you know I'm a sucker for a sale!

Were the instructions easy to follow? I only used them for the bodice/lining piece. The lower section was pretty self-explanatory.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The good: I am so hooked on maxi dresses right now and I wanted a strapless one. I just happened to have been flipping through the Simplicity book during the last .99 cent sale and saw this one. I had never attempted to make a junior sized pattern before, so I was leery of the sizing.

The bad: The bodice piece was cut so narrow. I didn't make a muslin (I'm going to learn one of these days)... I *attempted* a 1" FBA. It failed miserably. I didn't find this out until I had sewn it to the bottom and tried it on. The empire waist seam landed across the center of my bust. It looked horrendous! It looked like ill-fitting RTW. This dress almost became a wadder as I balled it up and threw it at my cutting table.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: After a couple of hours and a glass of wine (LOL), I tried it back on to see exactly where I went wrong. I saw that I only needed to add 2" to the front and back pattern pieces and re-cut. Good thing I ALWAYS buy extra fabric. Here is what the pattern pieces looked like after I altered them: FRONT, BACK & LINING. I also lengthened the bottom pieces by three inches.

Instead of using tricot, I wanted something that would offer the same amount of stretch as the fabric. I used a nude colored swimsuit lining knit.

ETA: I did NOT follow the instructions for the required amount of elastic. Instead, I just measured the elastic around me until I felt it was tight enough, and cut there. It was significantly less than what the pattern said to cut. This is important because I'm sure you would want to feel secure, especially in a strapless dress.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Nope... I will not sew this again... it's just to many other patterns I want to sew. But I do recommend. Also, if you're more than a B cup, be sure to watch the size of the bodice.

Simplicity 3813 - What I did with the scraps!

Project Details:

Pattern: Simplicity 3813,views F & G (OOP)

View F - Capris:
Fabric: Denim
Notions: 7" zipper; denim rivets and a 5/8" snap

View G - Shorts:

Fabric: White stretch twill
Notions: 7" zipper; six 3/4" buttons and one 5/8" button.

This is a really great pattern that I've had in my collection for a while now. I had intentions on making these last year, but I never got around to it. I was going through my fabric scrap and saw that I had some nice pieces around 1 yd. It was just enough for these projects.

I didn't have to make any alterations. It's so much fun being able to sew something straight out of the envelope and having it fit. The only modification I made was to view F. Since I used denim, I did denim-style topstitching and added rivets. I didn't really use the instructions. Once you've made pants, you know what to do. I only used them for the tab placements on the shorts. I also used Sandra Betzina's method for the zipper.

Since I made this one twice this past weekend, I will not be making this again. It's out of print now, but if you have this pattern and a little, I highly recommend it.

Simplicity Patterns Fall Preview!

What do you think?

McCall's 5852

Project Details:

Pattern: McCall's 5852 - View C (Modified)
Fabric: Silk Crepe
Notions: 1/4 elastic

Description: Close fitting, halter tops A, B, C with front lining, front neckline variations and elasticized back.

Pattern Sizing: 4 - 18, I cut the 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Kinda sorta, LOL.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them. I had my own plan.

High Neck Ruffle Blouse, Arden B.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? While browsing the shops in the mall, we strolled into Arden B. and I saw this cute ruffle top. It reminded me of a pattern that I had seen. When I got home, I searched and found this one. It was a perfect starting point for my inspiration top.

Fabric Used: I used silk crepe that I ran across a few weeks ago on the clearance table at Hancock. It was on sale for 50% off! It was worth it because it sewed like a dream.


Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I lengthened at the waist by 2" and made a 1" FBA with a horizontal dart. I added 3 1/2" to the bottom in order to create a shirred bottom. Instead of using the straps to create a halter top, I criss crossed them and tacked them down. I also eliminated the lining. I cut bias strips from the fabric and bound the armhole.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will probably not sew this version, but I definitely will be making one of the other halters. It's a very simple patter and yes, I highly recommend this!

Simplicity 3503

Project Details:

Pattern: Simplicity 3503, View E
Fabric: Rayon/lycra jersey

Pattern Description: Misses' knit dress in two lengths with bodice variations.

Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I cut the size 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Sure did, minus the suggested embellished neckline.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes... I only read over them initially. A beginner could easily make this.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love everything about this pattern. I bought this pattern last year with the intent of making a maxi dress and never got around to it. I was determined this year to make one.

Fabric Used: A rayon/lycra blend that I picked up last Summer from Metro Textiles in NYC.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't do a FBA, but I did however add 2 inches of length to the front and back bodice pieces. I also added around 3 inches to the length. In my opinion, a maxi dress should be floor length, even though I see so many RTW dresses that hit at the ankle. Those are not for me. Also, the pattern suggested that the bodice, neckband and midriff should be lined with tricot. I lined with the same fabric as the dress. Also, I omitted the pockets.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will probably not sew this version, but I definitely will be making the halter view. And yes, I highly recommend this!

Pardon the sitting wrinkles

Conclusion: Since the mercury has risen here, maxi dresses have been all the rage. I've looked in the stores and have yet to find one that is to my liking. I absolutely love this pattern and recommend it to anyone that likes this style of dress!

Bravo's "The Fashion Show": Why can't these people sew???

image source

So... what's really the deal with these contestants on "The Fashion Show"? I've watched the first two episodes and you know what? I am not impressed... AT ALL!

See the above picture. Can you BELIEVE that someone actually sent that crap down the runway?! Yes, you are seeing correctly. Those are indeed safety pins. This get up was "constructed" (snicker, snicker) by Johnny. Isaac was completely flabbergasted that he would send his garment down the runway with safety pins in the center front. Kelly wanted to know "why" and Fern simply thought it was "a mess". Johnny's "reasoning" behind this was that he is not a very good sewer and when he came on the show, he thought it was going to be about design. He stated that he is NOT a seamstress and he didn't think the show was going to be "America's Next Best Seamstress"! ROFL Fern Mallis said that if he wants to be a designer, he's going to have to learn the craft! Isaac made the analogy that you can't write recipes if you don't know how to cook!

That said it all!

And no, he was not sent home.

See here at around 7:05:



I've seen people that have design aspirations and they make lovely, lovely sketches. BUT, if you don't actually know how clothing is constructed and how to sew, can you be a great designer?

Are you watching the show? If so, what do you think?

Vogue 1093 & Jalie 2908

Project Details:

Pattern: Vogue 1093 - Donna Karan
Fabric: Stretch Linen (97% linen, 3% lycra)
Notions: Six 1" buttons

Pattern description: Unlined, fitted, above hip length top has wide neckline, collar and lapel, patch pockets and flaps, flat fell princess seams, yoke extending into turn back sleeves, front extensions forming side pockets, topstitch and button trim.

Pattern sizing: 4 - 18. I cut the size 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it does!

Were the instructions easy to follow? For this design, they were surprisingly easy.


What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved this pattern from the moment I saw it. I love garments with great details and this one has plenty! The lines of this jacket are incredible. It's finished completely with flat-felled seams and topstitching. This design was plucked straight off of the runway.

Donna Karan - Spring 2008 Collection

Fabric Used: I wanted it to be very Spring-like, so I choose a fuchsia stretch linen.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: None. That does NOT happen often. With this pattern, I don't think it's even possible to make any alterations. Since the fabric contained lycra, I didn't need a FBA.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? No, I only need one of these. I would recommend this to more advanced sewers.

Conclusion: This is a great, stylish jacket. It took a lot longer than I thought it would with all of the seam finishing and topstitching. I was tired after working on this for a few days and my topstitching was not the greatest. Good thing my thread matched my fabric perfectly!

Pattern: Jalie 2908
Fabric: Stretch denim
Notions: 7" brass zipper, jean button and rivets

Pattern Description: Women's flattering stretch jeans with slim fit through the hips and thigh and a flared leg, back and side front pockets, zip fly with button closure. View A has a low rise (2-3 inches below the navel) and View B has a regular rise (at the navel). I made the low rise.

Pattern Sizing: 2T - 22. I made the size Y.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Basically. I made a few minor alterations.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them. I've made pants and jeans many, many times.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love this pattern! The cut of these jeans are as close to RTW as you'll find in a pattern... IMHO.

Fabric Used: I used stretch denim from Fabric.com.



Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I lengthened (as usual) to produce a 37" inseam so that I can wear these with heels.
I created my own back pocket design.I added darts to the yoke to prevent gaposis.
I added the 5th pocket... the coin pocket. Hey, they just aren't jeans without it.
And I used a stretch poplin for the pocket lining.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Definitely!!!

Conclusion: This is the BEST jean pattern I've ever used! It's now my TNT for jeans and I'll be making these again and again and again!

Reader Sewing Advice Needed!

From my inbox:

I'm hoping that by sewing some of my own things, I'll be able to afford some more of the clothes that I want (I'm on a grad student budget these days). However, I have often heard that with all the supplies and cost of fabrics, you end up spending just as much, if not more than you would shopping in a store (that is, if you are a bargain/clearance shopper). I'm curious to know what you think.

The only thing I can tell people is everyone is DIFFERENT. Prices vary! You could be a Target, Wal-Mart, TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Belk, Macys, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, etc... type of shopper. You may be a person that only buys fabric from the $1 table or you may be the type to buy the most expensive fabric you can afford. Sewing is as expensive as YOU make it. I can't tell you if YOU are going to save money from sewing.

As far as me, on some things I do and some things I don't. For me, it's not about trying to save money. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to sew. It's about the enjoyment of the art.

What's your take on this?

JoAnn Fabrics Opens Superstore in Birmingham!

JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts is opening one of its "Superstores" in the former Marshalls space (I'm still kind of mad that they closed this location, but TJ Maxx is right down the street) at the Riverchase Promenade shopping center. The new store is slated to open in September. The great thing about this is that this location is only 3 minutes and 1.09 miles from me and in the same shopping center as Hancock. I'm curious to see what type of impact this will have on Hancock. I'm sure they will have to step their game up. (BTW, they just remodeled this store last Summer.) For those of you that live in an area that have both stores, which do you prefer and why?

source

Reader Sewing Advice Needed!

From my inbox:

Hi Erica!

I am an dedicated blog reader of yours. My best friend is getting herself married and I’m a bridesmaid. Thankfully the bridesmaid dresses are a relatively flattering A-line shape but there’s been quite a discussion concerning hemline length. I really admire your style and you always seem to have a spot on sense of what looks good.

All the bridesmaids are runners but two out of the three have thicker calves with thicker ankles. I have thin ankles and thin calves (yeah me), my thighs on the other hand ahem……! Anyway I was thinking the best length for the hemline would be just below the knee at the top of the calf. One of the other bridesmaids insits more tea length. Can I ask you for your advice?

What's YOUR advice?

Vogue 1086 - Electric Blue Dress

Project Details:

Pattern: Vogue 1086 - Tracy Reese
Fabric: Silk Crepe de Chine from Denver Fabrics.com
Lining: China Silk
Notions: 12" invisible zipper

Description: Slightly flared dress, mid-knee, has princess seams, very loose-fitting bodice with yokes, forming cap sleeves, above waist midriff and left side zipper closure.

Pattern Sizing: I cut the size 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes... very easy!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? First of all, I was excited when I first saw this pattern, being that it is a Tracy Reese design. This pattern and all of its construction methods really live up to being based on a high-end RTW garment. All of the seams are encased french seams and the zipper tape is bound. The pleating detail on the front and back is so flattering. And all of the pieces are so well drafted!

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: The bodice is drafted with princess seams and I made a typical shoulder princess seam FBA. I also raised the neckline by almost 2 inches. It was way too low for a daydress (I plan to wear this with flat gladiator sandals too), and one bend over away from a wardrobe malfunction. I also raised the armscye. I didn't want my bra band showing everytime I raised my arm. I had to lengthen by 3 inches, because as you know, I pretty much lengthen everything. I added a lining to the skirt part. It was scandalously see-through. Think Princess Diana.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? No, I wouldn't sew it again... it's just too many more designs I'd like to make. However, I would recommend it. I'd also like to recommend that this be made in silk or something silk-like.

Conclusion: This is a great dress if you're looking for something drapey and flowy.

What I'm working on...

Vogue 1099 - this will be made in white linen, china silk for the lining and silk organza for the trim.

Jalie 2908 - This is the new stretch jeans pattern from Jalie. There is also a Jeans-Sew-Along going on at PR that starts April 1st. I've had a stretch denim in my stash for a quite sometime. The more I look at it and touch it, I don't think it's the right weight. I'm following my instinct on this one before I waste time with all of the fancy topstitching and whatnot. I've ordered "Stretch Denim Metro Indigo" from Fabric.com. According to Emilie, this is the same denim that's used on the pattern cover.

Vogue 1093 - I found this great stretch linen at Denver Fabrics.com.

Vogue 1086 - I thought this dress was adorable from the first time I saw it. I've already cut this pattern and made the alterations to it. This is a beautiful silk crepe de chine (also from Denver Fabrics) and I can't wait to work with this.

McCall's 5525 - Trench Jacket

Project Details:

Pattern: McCall's 5525, View C
Fabric: Linen Foil (Linen 56%, Cotton 42%, Elastene 2%)
Lining: China Silk (100% polyester)
Notions: 12 1" buttons, 1 5/8" button, shoulder pads and heads

Description: Semi-fitted, lined, double-breasted jacket with shoulder pads, princess seams and side front pockets; jacket has belt carriers, epaulets with button closure, collar tab, front yoke, back buttoned yoke, sleeves with button bands, topstitch trim, button closure and self-tie belt.

Pattern sizing: 8 - 24W. I cut the size 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it did.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, they were.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love this pattern! It had all of the details for a traditional trench coat/jacket. The only problem I found is that the back buttoned yoke was drafted wider on one side. Even though it was simple to just fold it in half and even it out, this is just something you should be aware of. You don't want to end up with a lopsided yoke.

Fabric used: I found this very interesting looking linen fabric at Hancocks. I saw it, fell in love with it instantly and knew that I would use it for this project! We've been debating on the actual color. The shine of the fabric gives it an iridescent appearance. It's somewhere between a slate grey and a light blue. I wanted the lining to be fresh and springy, so I chose a citrus yellow.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: Here are the changes that I made:

• Made a 1" princess seam FBA (my normal).
• Used muslin for sew-in interfacing for the front sections, the collar and the collar band.
• Used nylon tricot interfacing for all of the smaller pieces.
  
• Changed the undercollar from a 1 piece to a two piece and cut it on the bias.
• Adjusted the undercollar for turn of cloth.
• Taped the lapel roll line.
• Added a back stay to stabilize shoulder area of jacket.
• Added sleeve heads.
• Topstitched with rayon embroidery thread.
  
• Added the front yoke to both sides.
• Used a keyhole type buttonhole.
• In my opinion, the button bands on the sleeves were too long. I shortened mine by 2".
• I followed the instructions on the lining. This means a lot of handstitching for those of you that have an aversion.
  
• I handstitched the all of my hems and slipstitched the lining to the sleeves and the hem of the jacket.
  

Additional Views:

Back
Lining
Hang Chain
Sleeve tabs

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will sew another version of this one again for the cooler seasons. Next time I'll use an "all-weather" fabric or use this style in wool. I highly recommend this one for the style and the wide variety of sizes.

Conclusion: I really love this jacket already! According to Mr. Meteorologist, I'll get a chance to wear it in a day or so.

Sneak Peak!

My hiatus (if that's what you want to call it), is officially over! I'm back in the game! The weather has been gorgeous this week... especially this weekend! I saw people out and about in maxi dresses, shorts, flip flops and killer sandals! If that wasn't enough to get the old mojo flowing, I don't know what is! Here is a preview of what I've been working on this week:

This is McCall's 5525. I decided that since "April showers bring May flowers", that I would be needing a Spring trench. I'll be posting a complete review with pictures (of course) in a day or so.

BTW, thanks so much for your emails and comments!

Have you seen my mojo?

My sewing mojo that is... it's gone missing! I think I've been affected by the crazy weather we've been having. Last week, we had tornadic activity -- a tornado touched down nearby. Sunday, we had "snow". Well, a 2" dusting that was gone by lunch time. The early part of the week, it was below freezing. And yesterday I had all of the windows open because it was a high of 75! Now, Spring is in the air (just ask my allergies) and sewing is of interest to me again. I placed a fabric order to jumpstart my transitional Spring sewing. Maybe I'll go do some snoop shopping today. Maybe/hopefully I'll be inspired by the new Spring arrivals!

How's the weather in your area? What are you doing this weekend?

Michelle O and Lady O!

It's a first time for everything!

Michelle Obama poses with Oprah Winfrey on the cover of the April issue of Oprah magazine (on stands March 17).

It's the first time Oprah has invited ANYBODY to appear alongside her instead of appearing alone. Michelle is wearing a Michael Kors dress and Dear Cashmere cardigan, while Oprah wears a dress by Rachel Roy.

I'm loving the both dresses and the orange/yellow combination really sings to me!

BTW, if any of you divas out there know where I can find a clear belt like that, let me know!

Spring Trend: Asymmetrical Ruffles!

Two prominent Spring trends this season are ruffles and asymmetrical necklines. And I'm loving the two of them combined! These tops are so flirty and romantic!

Trina Turk Mayreali Top - Shopbop.com, $108

Elie Tahari One Shoulder Blouse - Nordstrom, $208

BR Monogram Silk Asymmetrical Top - Banana Republic, $125

I would wear a top like this with a pencil skirt, a pair of tailored pants or dressed down with jeans. I'd accessorize with dangling earrings and bangle bracelets. I'd forgo a necklace because it would clearly compete with the neckline.

A Sleeveless First Lady: Big Deal or Not???

Photo from Mrs. O.org

As we know, one of the favorite topics with fashionistas everywhere is Michelle Obama's wardrobe. There has been much talk about the First Lady's choice of ensemble on Tuesday night... whether or not it was appropriate. First of all, I thought she looked fabulous in her plum Narciso Rodriguez outfit. She works out and you can tell she's quite proud of her arms and she clearly likes to show them off. BUT, do you think her choice of wardrobe was appropriate for the occasion? Is there an unwritten dresscode that first ladies must obide by? Or should the staunch Washingtonians just get accustomed to the fact that there's a new (fashion) sheriff in town and the chick has her own style?

I think we as a society, had gotten use to the fact that prior first ladies (at least for my generation) have been older. "Most" women that age tend to cover up out of self-consciousness and Mrs. Obama is young, vibrant and confident. Should we see her as a role model for "real" women that are healthy and fit or someone who just doesn't get how it's suppose to be done and committed a fashion faux pas? After watching Oprah on Wednesday and seeing people living in "Tent Cities", you would think that we would have REAL issues to worry about. BUT no... we are concerned with Michelle Obama's "right to bare arms".... SIGH. I don't know about you, but she sure has inspired me to step up my workout routine with a few extra push-ups and bicep curls!

What do you think?

Sidenote:

She's also on the cover of this week's People and from Wednesday night at the White House when they hosted Stevie Wonder:

Project Runway Canada, Eh?

Anybody watching Project Runway Canada, Season 2? You Canadians are so lucky to have Iman... I LOVE HER! I watched Season 1 and I became hooked! For those of us south of the Canadian border and elsewhere, you can find an episode on Youtube or other online sites. Blogging Project Runway always has a link to an available episode.

Vogue 1059 - Winter White Pants!

Project Details:

Pattern: Vogue 1059 - Alice + Olivia
Fabric: Lightweight Ivory Wool Crepe (100% Wool)
Notions: 7" zipper; hooks & eyes

Description: Flared pants A, B have waist yokes, carriers and back welt pockets. A: 1" below waist and has a fly front zipper opening. B: side front pockets, back darts and invisible back zipper.

Pattern Sizing: 4 - 18. I cut the size 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Pretty much... the line was the same.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Instructions? What instructions? LOL I've made quite a few pairs of pants... they ALL go together the same way, so I didn't use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I'm a fan of Alice + Olivia and I've made a couple of other patterns. I think all of their pants (RTW or patterns) are great and this one is no exception.


Fabric used: I used an ivory lightweight wool crepe. This is another piece from my NYC stash.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I cut a 14 at the waist and blended to a 16 at the hip. I added 5 inches to length. I eliminated the carriers and the back welt pockets for a clean, smooth look which worked out the problem of white pants show through.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Definitely to both!

Conclusion: I already love these pants. The fabric is so lightweight that these will be perfect for Spring! A great pants pattern is hard come by and this one is a keeper!

Butterick 5277 - Sheath Dress

Project Details:

Pattern: Butterick 5277
Fabric: Wool Crepe (100% wool)
Notions: 22" Invisible zipper; hook & eye

Description: Semi-fitted, lined dress, mid-knee has raglan sleeves and back zipper.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it did.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes... to the point of practically not needing them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the style of this dress. It's very similar to the cap sleeve dresses by David Meister.

Fabric Used: I used a wool crepe that I purchased from Metro Textiles in NYC.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I cut the size 14 in the bodice and blended to the size 16 from the waist down. I made my usual FBA and added 2 inches to the length.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is a great pattern and I highly recommend it, but it's doubtful I'll make it again. There are just soooooo many dress patterns for me to conquer.

Conclusion: This dress is a great wardrobe addition!